TWIB: April 24 - April 30

With Mel Allen
Vol. I, Issue IV

Sunday, April 24 - Saturday, April 30, 1977


TWIB Notes

Sunday, April 24
Reggie Smith (.327, 5 HR, 12 RBI) of the Dodgers was already having a good day going into the ninth inning with four hits on the day, but he saves the best for last he hits a three-run bomb to propel Los Angeles to a 8-6 win over the Braves. Smith finishes scoring three runs and driving in four.

Minnesota breaks a seven-game losing streak behind the pitching of Geoff Zahn (2-2, 5.16 ERA) as he holds the Rangers to just one run and seven hits in a 8-1 victory. The Twins score seven runs in the final two innings as costly errors by C John Ellis (three in the game) and 3B Jimmy Sexton (his first) account for six unearned runs. Larry Hisle (.161, 11 RBI) breaks an 0-for-21 slump with three hits and Dan Ford (.379, 7 RBI) adds three more of his own in the win. Jim Fregosi (.286) has three of the seven Texas hits.

Detroit sweeps the Orioles in an afternoon doubleheader and picks up a half game on Toronto in the AL East as John Wockenfuss (.375, 2 HR, 6 RBI) has three hits and drives in three and Milt Wilcox (1-0, 3.09 ERA) goes eight innings in winning his first start of the year as the Tigers hold on to beat Baltimore in the first game, 5-4. Mark Fidrych (4-0, 2.06 ERA) wins his fourth straight in the second game as Steve Kemp (.382, 9 RBI) , Milt May (.237) and Lou Whitaker (.242, 3 RBI) have three hits apiece to lead Detroit to a 7-5 win.

Jim Essian (.235, 1 HR, 3 RBI) and Oscar Gamble (.333, 3 HR, 6 RBI) each hit home runs in the top of the 11th inning as the White Sox score five runs in the frame to beat Oakland 9-4. Jorge Orta (.267, 6 RBI) and Alan Bannister (.600, 1 RBI) have three hits apiece in the win. Athletics SS Bill Russell has three hits and is hitting .300 since being picked up on waivers last week. In the second game, Jerry Tabb (.250, 2 RBI) singles home Billy North in the eighth and Mike Torrez (2-2, 4.15 ERA) holds the Sox to three hits over eight innings to lead Oakland to a 3-2 win.

Toronto continues to work their magic as Gary Woods (.280, 8 RBI) doubles home Doug Ault in the bottom of the 11th inning and give the Blue Jays a 6-5 win over Boston. Carl Yastrzemski (.388, 14 RBI) and Jim Rice (.267) each have a trio of hits in the game for the Red Sox.

Cleveland 2B Duane Kuiper (.225, 1 HR, 5 RBI) hits the first home run of his major league career with a 391-foot shot to right-center field off Catfish Hunter (0-2) in the third inning of a 5-2 Tribe win against the Yankees. Ray Fosse (.267, 3 RBI) has three base hits and Dennis Eckersley (1-2, 5.53 ERA) strikes out six over eight innings to get the win. In the second game, Reggie Jackson (.368, 6 HR, 16 RBI) has three hits - including his league leading sixth home run - and Roy White (.269, 8 RBI) and Chris Chambliss (.222, 2 HR, 10 RBI) each drive in three runners as New York wins 13-5.

George Foster (.302, 3 HR, 8 RBI) hits a towering grand slam in the eight inning off of Chicago starter Steve Renko (1-2) to give Cincinnati a 8-4 win over the Cubs and their ninth victory in a row.

Milwaukee's Von Joshua (.205, 1 HR, 3 RBI) hits a two-run blast in the top of the 14th inning to lead the Brewers over California 6-4. Joshua has three hits on the day and Dan Thomas (.308) adds three more after coming into the game in the seventh. Jerry Remy (.356) has three hits for the Angels and steals his 16th base in the loss. A total of 10 stolen bases were successful between both teams combined.

37-year old Willie Stargell (.302, 3 HR, 8 RBI) hits two home runs in the second game of a doubleheader and five hits on the day as Pittsburgh sweeps both games against the Mets by scores of 2-1 and 7-4.

Injuries
- MR Lary Anderson is expected to miss about 4-5 weeks with a hyperextended elbow.
------------ Is placed on the 15-day disabled list.
------------ MR Cardell Camper contract purchased from Triple A Toledo.

Major Transactions
- SS Alan Bannister activated from the disabled list.
------------ SS Tim Nordbrook optioned to Triple A Iowa.


Monday, April 25
Jim Clancy (4-0, 2.01 ERA) keeps the Red Sox reeling as he strikes out nine over eight innings, allowing just five hits in a 2-0 win over Boston. Fergie Jenkins (1-3, 2.97 ERA) was almost as good, allowing five hits of his own, striking out six and giving up just one earned run.

Backed by three hits each from Bruce Bochte (.323, 3 RBI) and Joe Rudi (.319, 5 RBI), Angels starter Gary Ross (4-0, 1.50 ERA) cruised to a 10-0 victory over Oakland. Ross strikes out six and allows just five hits over his eight innings of work.

San Diego C Bob Stinson (.280, 2 HR, 11 RBI) ended this five-hour, 16-inning affair in grand fashion, hitting a walk-off grand slam off of Dodgers reliever Mike Garman (0-1) to give the Padres a 8-4 triumph. Bill Almon (.231) and Gene Richards (.262, 5 RBI) each have four hits for San Diego while SS Roy Landestoy (.200) does the same for the Dodgers. Davey Lopes (.364, 13 RBI) adds his three hits to the Los Angeles total as well.

Al Bumbry (.340, 6 RBI) hits a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the ninth inning to score Larry Harlow and give Baltimore a 3-2 win over the Yankees. Orioles starter Dennis Martinez (2.08 ERA) strikes out 10 in 8 2/3 innings but fails to get a decision.

Atlanta starter Andy Messersmith (3-1, 2.18 ERA) gives up 10 hits but only one earned run to lead the Braves past Cincinnati 3-1 and snapping the Reds' nine game winning streak. Messersmith strikes out four and walks two in his eight innings of work.

Injuries
- 3B Doug Rader is day-to-day for about 6 days with a strained Achilles tendon.

Contract Signings
- SP Wayne Twitchell signed a 3-year extension worth a total of $528,000.
------------ He will earn $176,000 a year through 1980.

Major Transactions
- LF Ron Pruitt recalled from Triple A Toledo.
------------ RF Charlie Spikes optioned to Triple A Toledo.


Tuesday, April 26
Ron Guidry (2-1, 1.95 ERA) gives up three hits - two by Ken Singleton (.353) - and struck out six to lead the Yankees to a 4-0 shutout of Baltimore. Jim Palmer (3.24 ERA) goes the distance for the Orioles, allowing six hits and five strikeouts, but drops to 0-4 on the year.

Oakland starter Doc Medich (4-0, 2.20 ERA) throws a five-hit shutout and the Athletics attacked previously unhittable Frank Tanana (3-1) for six runs as Oakland beats the Angels, 6-0. Medich struck out six and walked none while Mitchell Page (.356, 4 HR, 13 RBI) drives in four runs on three hits to lead the Athletics offensive assault.

The Cubs hit four home runs, but can not stop the St. Louis hit parade as the Cards pound out 20 hits, the game-clincher being a home run by Keith Hernandez (.203, 1 HR, 8 RBI) in the 11th inning - the only Cardinals home run in the game - to lead St. Louis to a 9-7 victory. Hernandez has four hits, scores three runs and has three runs batted in while Gary Templeton (.267), Ted Simmons (.288, 10 RBI) and Buddy Bell (.258, 4 RBI) have three hits apiece. Chicago RF Bobby Mercer (.298, 2 HR, 6 RBI) drives in three runs and 3B Steve Ontiveros (.333, 2 HR, 9 RBI) goes a perfect 4-for-4, including a game typing home run in the bottom of the ninth to send the game into extra innings.

Detroit's Phil Mankowski (.291, 3 HR, 10 RBI) has five hits, his last being a walk-off blast to right-center field off Chris Knapp (0-1) in the bottom of the 11th inning to give the Tigers a 7-6 win over Chicago. Lou Whitaker (.271) has three hits and Ben Oglivie (.277, 16 RBI) has three runs batted in for Detroit. White Sox Pinch-hitter Lamar Johnson (.294, 2 HR, 4 RBI) tied the game up in the ninth with a solo shot to send the game into extra innings.

Pedro Garcia (.308) replaced an injured Ron Fairly in the sixth inning, then delivered three hits (two doubles) and scored three runs in helping Toronto score four times in the top of the 11th inning and down the Indians, 6-2. Blue Jays starter Steve Hargen (3.41 ERA) scatters eight hits and two runs in eight innings, but gets the no decision while C Alan Ashby (.279, 8 RBI) has three hits and three runs batted in the win.

After scoring two runs in the ninth to force extra innings, Cincinnati scores to open the 10th frame on a Ken Griffey (8 RBI) sacrifice fly, however the Braves would come storming back. An error by 3B Pete Rose (his third) gives Atlanta and extra out, they hit three consecutive singles to score two runs, the last being hit by Rowland Office (.340, 8 RBI). Braves starter Jamie Easterly gives up just two hits and strikes out five over seven innings to lower his ERA to a nice 9.56. Griffey pinch hit for Johnny Bench in the ninth and stayed in to catch the final two innings.

Mariners' Rick Jones (2-2, 3.68 ERA) and Enrique Romo (5 SV, 9.00 ERA) combine to hold Minnesota to four hits - two by Butch Wynegar (.296) - and sends the Twins to their eighth loss in nine games with a 4-0 victory. Doug Collins (.357) cracks four singles for the winning team.

Ron Cey (.273, 2 HR, 5 RBI) has three hits, including a two-run blast in the top of the ninth to send the game into extras and pitcher Al Downing (1.000, 2 RBI) hits a two-run single in the 12th inning to give Los Angeles a 5-3 win over the Padres. San Diego's Dave Winfield plays three innings at 2B for the first time in his career after coming in as a pinch-hitter.

Injuries
- 1B Ron Fairly is day-to-day for about 1 week with a swollen eye.
- SP John Urrea is expected to miss about 7-8 months with a torn back muscle.
------------ Is placed on the 60-day disabled list.
------------ 2B Ken Oberkfell (.294, 1 HR, 6 RBI) contract purchased from Triple A New Orleans.
- CF Elliott Maddox is expected to miss about 4 weeks with a scratched cornea.
------------ Is placed on the 15-day disabled list.
------------ CF Tom Shopay (.177, 2 HR, 10 RBI) recalled from Triple A Rochester.

Major Transactions
- SP Francisco Barrios activated from the disabled list.
------------ SP Mike Krukow (1-1, 1.62 ERA) optioned to Triple A Iowa.


Wednesday, April 27
Richie Zisk (.203, 5 HR, 13 RBI) hits two home runs and drives in five while Oscar Gamble (.324, 4 HR, 9 RBI) scores three runs and drives in three more on three hits as the White Sox crush Detroit by a 11-1 score. Starter Ken Brett (2-3, 3.05 ERA) goes the distance for Chicago, giving up a run on seven hits.

Boston starter Reggie Cleveland (3-1, 4.82 ERA) holds the Brewers to four hits in 8 1/3 innings while Butch Hobson (.242) and Carl Yastrzemski (.410) lead the offense with three hits apiece to lead the Red Sox to a 4-0 shutout over Milwaukee.

St. Louis takes advantage of a Steve Ontiveros error (his first) in the eighth to scrap together a run on an RBI-single by Keith Hernandez (.222, 9 RBI) to beat the Cubs, 1-0. Eric Rasmussen (3-2, 1.72 ERA) goes seven innings for the win, allowing four hits and Bill Bonham (0-2, 3.28 ERA) was equally tough for Chicago - giving up six hits and one unearned run. Jerry Mumphrey (.259) has three of the Cardinals seven hits while Bill Buckner (.290) hits half of the six hits from Chicago.

Pittsburgh wins its sixth consecutive game in memorable fashion as Bill Robinson (.323, 2 HR, 8 RBI) hits a three-run walk-off home run off of Phillies closer Gene Garber (0-2, 1 BS, 10.39 ERA) for a 7-6 Pirates victory. Omar Moreno (.224, 6 RBI) and Willie Stargell (.333, 10 RBI) each have three hits for the Pirates while Mike Schmidt (.321, 2 HR, 7 RBI) scores two runs and drives in two more on his three hit day for the Phillies.

Gary Matthews (.315, 2 HR, 6 RBI) and Jeff Burroughs (.224, 3 HR, 11 RBI) hit back-to-back home runs off Fred Norman (3-1) in the eighth inning to give Atlanta a 6-4 win and a three-game sweep over the Reds. Ken Griffey (.397) scores a four hit day for Cincinnati while Burroughs has three hits for the Braves.

Los Angeles reliever Doug Lewallyn walks pinch-hitter Pete LaCock with the bases loaded in the bottom of the 13th inning to give the Padres a 3-2 win. San Diego starter Bob Shirley (2.36 ERA) goes 7 1/3 and gives up two runs on just four hits and 3B Mike Ivie (.328, 4 RBI) goes a perfect 4-for-4 to lead the offense.

Trades
- Trades 25-year old LF Jerry Hairston ($100,000 over 1 year - Arbitration Eligible)
1977 Stats:
.000 (0-2) / 0 R / 0 2B /0 HR / 0 RBI / 2 BB /0 K / .500 OBP / .000 SLG
1976 Stats: .227 / 20 R / 2 2B / 2 3B / 0 HR / 10 RBI / .352 OBP / .277 SLG

and 23-year old Double A RF Geoffrey Gardner (Minor League Contract)
1977 Stats: .296 (21-71) / 8 R / 3 2B /1 3B / 0 HR / 9 RBI / 6 BB / K / .500 OBP / .000 SLG

- Trades 32-year old SP Stan Bahnsen ($258,000 over 1 year)
1977 Stats: 0-3 / 6.11 ERA / 17.2 IP / 12 ER / 6 BB / 13 K / 1.70 WHIP / .333 OAVG
1976 Stats: 8-7 / 3.34 ERA / 143.0 IP / 53 ER / 43 BB / 82 K / 1/17 WHIP / .229 OAVG

and 23-year old Double A MR Steve McCatty (Minor League Contract)
1977 Stats:
1-0 / 2.89 ERA / 9.1 IP / 3 ER / 4 BB / 4 K / 1.39 WHIP / .265 OAVG

Injuries
- CF Cesar Cedeno is day-to-day for about 4 days with a strep throat.
- LF Johnny Grubb is day-to-day for about 4 days with a fractured finger.

Major Transactions
- SP Stan Bahnsen placed on the active roster (from trade).
------------ RF Gene Clines (.231, 0 HR, 9 RBI) recalled from Triple A Iowa.
------------ MR Chris Knapp (0-1, 6.35 ERA) was designated for assignment and placed on waivers.
- LF Jerry Hairston placed on the active roster (from trade).
------------ SP Rick Langford (3-2, 1.31 ERA) recalled from Triple A San Jose.
------------ RF Sheldon Mallory (.337, 6 HR, 18 RBI) contract purchased from Triple A San Jose.
------------ RF Tony Armas (.227, 1 HR, 1 RBI) was designated for assignment and placed on waivers.
------------ CF Larry Murray (.162, 0 HR, 3 RBI) optioned to Triple A San Jose.


Thursday, April 28
The Dodgers used a 17-hit attack led by rookie SS Rafael Landestoy (.230), who went 5-for-6 with two doubles to lead Los Angeles to a 10-1 demolishing of the Padres. Rick Monday (.323, 3 HR, 10 RBI) comes within a double of hitting the cycle to go along with his three runs batted in and Reggie Smith (.308, 17 RBI) drives in three runs of his own. Dodgers starter Rick Rhoden (2-1, 3.41 ERA) cruised to a complete game win, allowing seven hits and the one earned run while striking out three.

Minnesota hits three consecutive singles in the bottom of the 10th inning off of Mariners closer Enrique Romo (1-3, 9.00 ERA), the game-winner being hit by Mike Cubbage (.348, 2 HR, 8 RBI) as the Twins beat Seattle 4-3. Cubbage sent the game into extras in the eighth with his second home run of the season - en route to him driving in three of Minnesota's four runs.

Injuries
- MR Butch Metzger is expected to miss about 4 weeks with a strained back muscle.
------------ Is placed on the 15-day disabled list.
------------ MR Victor Bernal (1-0, 2 SV, 1.17 ERA) recalled from Triple A Hawaii.


Friday, April 29
Pat Zachry (3.07 ERA) runs his record to 5-0 as he holds the Cubs to just two hits and strikes out 11 in Cincinnati's 2-0 win. George Foster (.333, 12 RBI) gets three hits in three at-bats to lead the Reds offense.

Philadelphia beats the Giants 6-0 on a two-hitter by Jim Lonborg (2-1, 2.25 ERA). Lonborg strikes out six while facing just 31 batters and 3B Mike Schmidt (.351, 3 HR, 11 RBI) hits a grand slam in the seventh as part of his three hit day to lock the game up.

Vida Blue (2-2, 2.61 ERA) strikes out 11 as he five-hits the Red Sox in a 6-0 Athletics victory. CF Billy North (.212) hits four singles and steals two bases in the win.

The Yankees manage only three hits off of Seattle starter Stan Thomas (2-3, 4.22 ERA) through eight innings as they fall to the Mariners 2-0. Ed Figueroa (3-1, 1.71 ERA) goes the distance in the loss, giving up six hits and both earned runs.

Pittsburgh scores three run in the bottom of the ninth to tie the game at two against the Astros, then must score two more two innings later to win the game 4-3. CF Omar Moreno (.266, 7 RBI) makes his fourth hit of the game count, as he hits the game-winning single off Don Larson (0-1, 1 BS, 4.26 ERA). Frank Taveras (.265, 7 RBI) adds three hits and two runs batted in as the Pirates win their seventh consecutive game. Houston starter Mark Lemongello (4.63 ERA) goes 8 1/3 innings scattering seven hits and allowing one earned run before being replaced.

Wayne Garland (3-2, 2.36 ERA) throws a four-hit shutout and LF Ron Pruitt (.778, 2 RBI) collects four hits as Cleveland shuts out the Brewers, 7-0 before a crowd of 16, 897 at County Stadium.

In a day of shutouts, Cardinals starter Bob Forsch (3-1, 2.52 ERA) holds Atlanta to four hits through eight innings and Keith Hernandez (.254, 10 RBI) has a three hit day as St. Louis gets a 4-0 win over the Braves.

Texas scores six runs in the final two innings to ruin the White Sox debut of Stan Bahnsen (0-4) as the Rangers beat Chicago, 7-2. Gaylord Perry (4-1, 2.38 ERA) gets the win, giving up seven hits and striking out seven in throwing his third complete game of the year.

The Mets get to Rollie Fingers (1-1, 3 BS, 8.68 ERA), as they score three runs in the ninth to beat the Padres 6-4. Ed Kranepool (.271, 10 RBI) hits an RBI double and Mike Phillips (.276, 9 RBI) drives in two more with a double of his own in the crucial frame. Bill Almon (.245,5 RBI) does deliver a three hit day for San Diego in the loss.

Pat Kelly (.295, 6 HR, 14 RBI) hits two solo home runs, but it is not enough as California scraps together a run in the top of the 10th inning on an error my Scotty McGregor (1st), a Ron Jackson (.226) double and a Ike Hampton (.356, 9 RBI) sacrifice fly to give the Angels a 4-3 win over Baltimore.

Dan Stanhouse (3-1, 2.54 ERA) gives up three hits to the Dodgers - all of them by RF Reggie Smith (.329) - in leading the Expos to a 3-0 shutout of Los Angeles. Tommy John (0-3, 4.33 ERA) goes the distance in the loss.

Four Detroit errors lead to eight unearned runs, but it makes little difference as Minnesota crushes the Tigers 17-2. Rod Carew (.265, 9 RBI) and Larry Hisle (.182, 5 HR, 15 RBI) each have three hits and three runs batted in while C Glenn Borgmann (.158, 3 RBI) and Bob Randall (.238, 4 RBI) each drive in three runs of their own.

Contract Signings
- LF Pat Kelly signed a 4-year extension worth a total of $3,988,000.
------------ He will earn $997,000 a year through 1981.

Major Transactions
- MR Warren Brusstar activated from the disabled list.
------------ 1B Richie Hebner (.135, 0 HR, 4 RBI) was designated for assignment and placed on waivers.
- SS Enzo Hernandez (.235, 3 HR, 17 RBI) recalled from Triple A Hawaii.
------------ 1B Pete LaCock (.158, 0 HR, 2 RBI) was designated for assignment and placed on waivers.


Saturday, April 30
Angels LF Joe Rudi (.333, 4 HR, 11 RBI) hits two home runs and a double to drive in six runs and lead California to a 10-4 win over the Orioles. Ike Hampton (.375), Bobby Grich (.324) and Ron Jackson (.258, 9 RBI) also have three hits as the Angels deliver 18 as a team. Baltimore's rookie 1B Eddie Murray (.253, 15 RBI) hits his first home run of the season in the fourth inning.

Gary Carter (.438, 4 HR, 14 RBI) hits a two-run blast in the eighth inning - his second of the game - to put the Expos ahead for good 4-2 over Los Angeles. Carter drives in four runners on the day, and pitcher Hal Dues (1-2, 7.20 ERA) gets his first win of the season scattering seven hits and two earned runs in eight innings.

Houston's Ken Forsch (2-1, 2.45 ERA) clamps down on the Pirates offense, allowing six hits and one earned run in the Astros 4-1 victory. The win breaks the seven game win streak of Pittsburgh who have lost just three games in the entire month of April. LF Terry Puhl (.345, 5 RBI) lead the Houston offense with three hits.

An error by Bill Melton (his third) with two-out in the bottom of the ninth allows Sixto Lezcano to score from third and give Miwaukee a 2-1 win over the Tribe. Bill Travers (1.33 ERA) gives up just three hits in eight innings of work but does not get the win. Dennis Eckersley (1-3, 4.46 ERA) again fails to get run support and loses another heartbreaker in the late innings.

Toronto continues their late-game heroics as Al Woods (.235, 6 RBI) hits an RBI single in the top of the eighth inning to give the Blue Jays a 3-2 win over Kansas City and running their record to 7-0 in one-run games.

Major Transactions
- SP Jeff Byrd activated from the disabled list.
------------ SP Jesse Jefferson (1-0, 2.12 ERA) optioned to Triple A Beloeil.
------------ SS Jim Mason (.000, 0 HR, 0 RBI) recalled from Triple A Beloeil.
------------ CF Gary Woods (.276, 1 HR, 10 RBI) optioned to Triple A Beloeil.



Players of the Week

American League Player of the Week:
RF Ben Oglivie - Detroit Tigers
He batted .450 (9-20), with 4 HR, 9 RBI and 2 runs scored.
1977 Stats: .277 / 10 R / 2 2B / 1 3B /5 HR / 17 RBI / 4 BB / 9 K / .319 OBP / .569 SLG

National League Player of the Week
LF Al Oliver - Pittsburgh Pirates
He batted .444 (12-27), with 2 HR, 8 RBI, and 4 runs scored.
1977 Stats: .431 / 9 R / 6 2B / 0 3B / 3 HR / 16 RBI / 4 BB /3 K / .468 OBP / .690 SLG



Players of the Month

American League Hitter of the Month (April):
CF Ruppert Jones - Seattle Mariners
He batted .310 (27-87), with 10 doubles, 1 triple, 5 HR, 16 RBI, 17 runs scored and a .417 OBP.

National League Hitter of the Month (April)
C Gary Carter - Montreal Expos
He batted .438 (28-64), with 4 doubles, 1 triple, 4 HR, 14 RBI, 16 runs scored and a .500 OBP.


American League Pitcher of the Month (April):
SP Gary Ross - Califirnia Angels
He racked up a 5-0 record in 5 starts, posting a 1.80 ERA over 45 innings and striking out 23.

National League Hitter of the Month (April)
SP Pat Zachry - Cincinnati Reds
He had a 5-0 record in 5 starts, with a 3.07 ERA and had fanned 28 batters in 41 innings.


American League Rookie of the Month (April):
LF Mitchell Page - Oakland Athletics
He batted .337 (29-86), with 1 double, 2 triples, 5 HR, 15 RBI, and 13 runs scored.

National League Rookie of the Month (April)
LF Terry Puhl - Houston Astros
He batted .345 (19-55), with 1 double, 2 triples, 0 HR, 5 RBI, and 9 runs scored.

TWIB: April 17 - April 23


With Mel Allen
Vol. I, Issue III

Sunday, April 17 - Saturday, April 23, 1977


TWIB Notes

Sunday, April 17
Andy Hassler (2-0, 0.50 ERA) continues to pitch well, holding the Tigers to four hits and striking out five in a 5-0 win - ruining the return of Dennis Leonard (1-1) to Royals Stadium. Bob Molinaro steals three more bases off of Tigers C Milt May - giving him six in the last two days.

Carl Yastrzemski (.481, 2 HR, 8 RBI) hits a ninth inning grand slam to help lead Boston over the Indians 8-0 in the first game of a doubleheader, then delivers two doubles and another key single as the Red Sox hold off the Tribe in the second game 9-6. Luis Tiant (2-1, 3.00 ERA) goes 7 2/3 scoreless innings to get the win in game one and Rico Carty (.310, 2 HR, 9 RBI) hits a grand slam of his own and drives in five runners on the day in the loss in the second game.

Mets starter Tom Seaver (1-1, 2.74 ERA) goes eight strong innings in beating Chicago 7-1 at Shea Stadium. Seaver gives up just three hits and a unearned run while striking out eight Cubs hitters. Mike Phillips (.214, 4 RBI) has three RBI, but also commits his fifth error of the season at third base.

Pat Kelly (.333, 6 RBI) hits a bases loaded, two-out double in the top of the 14th inning to give Baltimore a 6-4 win over the Rangers and an actual two game winning streak. Newly acquired C Darrell Porter (.433, 1 HR, 5 RBI) has three hits and three RBI for the Orioles, including his first home run of the season. Texas 3B Roy Howell (.216) connects on four hits in the loss.

Milwaukee SS Robin Yount (.314) has four hits - three of them doubles, his last coming in the bottom of the 16th inning to set up a game-winning single by Don Money (.414, 6 RBI) for a 9-8 victory over the Yankees. Cecil Cooper (.265) also has four hits for the Brewers and Jim Wohlford (.211, 5 RBI) drives in four runners for the home team. American League hitting leader Graig Nettles (.481) has three more hits for New York.

The Dodgers score three run in the top of the eigth inning to take the lead then hang on to defeat San Francisco, 7-6. Davy Lopes (.400, 7 RBI) has three hits for Los Angeles and Bob Boone (.296, 3 RBI) hits a key double with two runners on in the eighth.

Cincinnati's Gary Nolan (1-0, 1.62 ERA) outduels Randy Jones (0-3, 5.79 ERA) of the Padres as the Reds win 2-1. Jones pitches all nine innings, giving up four hits and both runs, but Nolan was a bit better, giving up two hits in eight innings giving up one earned run

Injuries
- SP John Candelaria is expected to miss about 2 weeks with a dead arm.
------------ Is placed on the 15-day disabled list.
------------ MR Tim Jones contract purchased from Triple A Columbus.
- LF Jim Wohlford is expected to miss about 1 week with a fractured finger.
------------ Is placed on the 15-day disabled list.
------------ LF Dick Davis recalled from Triple A Spokane.


Monday, April 18
The winless streak is finally over at 10 for San Diego as Bob Shirley (1-0, 2.84 ERA) throws eight innings of shutout baseball, giving up just two hits while striking out five and the Padres beat Atlanta 6-1.

Tigers rookie LF Steve Kemp (.455) has three hits and Phil Mankowski (.250, 2 HR, 7 RBI) drives in four with a triple and a home run to lead Detroit to a 7-5 win over the Red Sox. Dwight Evans (.313) has three hits for Boston.

Nino Espinosa (2-0, 0.00 ERA) scatters nine hits over 8 1/3 innings and the Mets score three runs in the final two innings off of St. Louis reliever Clay Carroll (0-1) to beat the Cardinals, 3-0. Starter Pete Falcone (1.80 ERA) held New York to just four hits over seven innings before being replaced for a pinch-hitter.

Chris Chambliss (.235, 1 HR, 6 RBI) hits a two-run home run in the bottom of the eighth inning to brak a one-all tie and give the Yankees a 3-1 win over division leading Toronto. Chambliss and Reggie Jackson (.395) combine for six of New York's nine hits.

In an anticlimatic ending to an otherwise exciting game, Greg Gross (.192, 5 RBI) brings home Manny Trillo with a sacrifice fly in the bottom of the ninth inning to give the Cubs a 5-4 victory over Philadelphia. Chicago loads the bases with nobody out off of Phillies closer Gene Garber (0-1, 3.38 ERA) before the sacrific ends it.

Baltimore scores two runs in the bottom of the first inning then holds on to defeat the Tribe 2-1 and win their third consecutive game after losing thier first six. Scotty McGregor (1-0, 3.38 ERA) goes eight innings for his first win and Wayne Garland (1-2, 3.38 ERA) goes the distance for Cleveland in the loss.

Injuries
- MR Terry Forster is day-to-day for about 2 days with a migrane.

Major Transactions
- SS Bill Russell claimed from Oakland and placed on the active roster.
------------ CF Matt Alexander optioned to Triple A San Jose.
- 3B Tommy Helms was designated for assignment and placed on waivers.
------------ LF Mike Easler recalled from Triple A Columbus.


Tuesday, April 19
Detroit RF Ben Oglivie (.209, 4 HR, 9 RBI) hits two home runs and drives in five while C John Wockenfuss (.354, 1 HR, 3 RBI) adds three more RBI as the Tigers beat Boston 9-4. The win comes at a cost for Detroit, as starter Dave Rozema (2.50 ERA) leaves the game in the second inning with back spasms and will be out about 8 weeks.

The duo of Dave Winfield (.133, 1 HR, 7 RBI) and George Hendrick (.371, 3 HR, 8 RBI) lead San Diego to a 11-10 slugfest win over the Braves. Winfield drives in five Padres and Hendrick homers twice to drive in three more as San Diego hits five home runs as a team, however it is Mike Ivie (.211, 3 RBI) who singles home Gene Tenace in the top of the ninth inning for the game-winner. CF Rowland Office (.333, 7 RBI) and 3B Junior Moore (.438, 7 RBI) each have four hits for Atlanta in the loss.

Pittsburgh scores three runs in the final two innings to come from behind and beat the Expos 5-3. LF Bill Robinson (.273, 1 RBI) has three hits for the Pirates, including a key RBI single in the eighth that tied the game. Warren Cromartie (.250) has three base knocks for Montreal.

Cleveland tees off on the Orioles bullpen as they score five runs in the ninth inning off of closer Tippy Martinez (0-1, 2 BS, 31.50 ERA) and Mike Parrott (13.51 ERA) to defeat Baltimore 7-4. Bill Melton (.182, 1 RBI) has three hits for the Tribe and Baltimore's Ken Singleton (.425) collects four hits in the losing effort.

The Dodgers have reached a deal that will send 29-year old SS Ted Martinez - who has had fewer than 100 at-bats since 1974 to California in exchange for 27-year old American League RBI leader Don Baylor. No word on whether the trade had any impact on contract negotiations with SP Don Sutton.

Trades
- Trades 27-year old LF Don Baylor ($1,468,800 over 3 years @ $489,600 per year)
1977 Stats:
.326 (14-43) / 8 R / 4 2B /1 HR / 11 RBI / 0 BB /6 K / .356 OBP / .488 SLG
1976 Stats: .247 / 85 R / 25 2B / 1 3B / 15 HR / 68 RBI / .329 OBP / .369 SLG

- Trades 29-year old SS Ted Martinez ($161,160 over 2 years @ $80,580 per year)
1977 Stats: .143 (2-14) / 3 R / 1 3B / 0 HR / 0 RBI / 2 BB / 3 K / .250 OBP / .286 SLG
1976 Stats: Did not play in majors in 1976.

Injuries
- 3B Craig Reynolds is expected to miss about 8 months with a torn back muscle.
------------ Placed on the 60-day disabled list.
------------ 3B Juan Bernhardt recalled from Triple A Sidney.
- 2B Bobby Grich is day-to-day for about 2 weeks with a damaged meniscus (knee).
- MR Bob Stanley is expected to miss about 2-3 months with a torn back muscle.
------------ Placed on the 60-day disabled list.
------------ SP Don Aase recalled from Triple A Pawtucket.
- SP Dave Rozema is expected to miss about 8 weeks with back spasms.
------------ Placed on the 15-day disabled list.
------------ MR Steve Grilli recalled from Triple A Evansville.

Contract Signings
- CL Rawly Eastwick signed a 1-year extension worth a total of $472,000.
- SP Don Sutton signed a 3-year extension worth a total of $4,707,000.
------------ He will earn $1,569,000 a year through 1980.

Major Transactions
- SS Ted Martinez placed on the active roster (from trade).
------------ C Terry Humphrey optioned to Triple A Salt Lake City.
------------ 3B Dave Chalk was designated for assignment and placed on waivers.
------------ SS Mario Guerrero recalled from Triple A Salt Lake City.
------------ C Andy Etchebarren recalled from Triple A Salt Lake City.
- LF Don Baylor placed on the active roster (from trade).
------------ SS Ron Washington recalled from Triple A Albuquerque.
------------ LF Dusty Baker optioned to Triple A Albuquerque.
- 3B Cookie Rojas claimed off waivers from Kansas City and placed on the active roster.
------------ C Tom Hosley optioned to Triple A San Jose.
------------ 2B Larry Lintz optioned to Triple A San Jose.
------------ SS Matt Alexander recalled from Triple A San Jose.
- 1B Pete LaCock claimed off waivers from Kansas City.
------------ SS Bobby Valentine optioned to Triple A Hawaii.
- C Bob Stinson was designated for assigment and placed on waivers.
------------ SP Glenn Abbott optioned to Triple A Sidney.
------------ RF Leroy Stanton optioned to Triple A Sidney.
------------ CL Dave Pagan recalled from Triple A Sidney.
------------ RF Carlos Lopez recalled from Triple A Sidney.
------------ CL Dave Pagan recalled from Triple A Sidney.
------------ SS Larry Milbourne recalled from Triple A Sidney.


Wednesday, April 20
In 39 degree temperatures at Royals Stadium, starter Paul Splittorff (1-2, 4.42 ERA) got his first win of the season - by throwing a no-hitter against Minnesota. Splittorff struck out five and walked two in the gem and SS U.L. Washington (.313, 3 RBI) came within a home run of hitting for the cycle in Kansas City's 5-0 win.

Greg Luzinki (.378, 4 HR, 13 RBI) hits a pair of three-run home runs to lead the Phillies to a 14-2 crushing of Chicago. With the score 11-0 in the sixth, Luzinski is lifted for a pinch-runner as manager Danny Ozark replaces many of his starters with reserves. 1B Richie Hebner (.192, 4 RBI), who was placed on waivers just a week ago by Philadelphia, gets three hits in the win.

California DH Ken Landreaux (.435, 3 HR, 10 RBI) hits two home runs and drives in four, but it takes a two-out single by Bobby Grich (.250, 3 RBI) to score Thad Bosley in the bottom of the 10th inning to give the Angels a 6-5 victory over Chicago. Starter Gary Ross (3-0, 1.93 ERA) throws all 10 innings to get his third win of the year.

Toronto gets three hits apiece from Sam Ewing (.308, 1 RBI) and Gary Woods (.256, 6 RBI) and eight good innings from Jim Clancy (3-0, 2.70 ERA) to ease by the Yankees 4-2 and maintain a two-game lead over Detroit in the AL East.

Cincinnati's Jack Billingham (3-0, 2.01 ERA) outduels Don Sutton (2-1, 1.93 ERA) and the Dodgers , 2-0 to give the Reds their sixth straight victory. Sutton gives up seven hits and strikes out seven while Billingham strikes out only two Reds hitters while scattering seven hits.

Oakland scores in the bottom of the eighth inning when 3B Sal Bando (1st error) misplays a ground ball to give the Athletics a 3-2 win over Milwaukee. Recently recalled Matt Alexander (.250) has three hits for Oakland as Bando (.205) and DH Dan Thomas (.281) each have three for the Brewers.

Bake McBride (.300, 5 RBI) squeaks his third single of the game past a diving Dave Kingman (playing 2B) in the bottom of the 10th to bring home Mike Anderson and give the Cardinals a 3-2 win over New York.

Mark Fidrych (3-0, 2.33 ERA) and his braced up left leg throws his third consective complete game victory - this time a 7-2 win over the Red Sox - and continues to show no ill effects of the ripped cartilage in his knee.


Thursday, April 21
Texas RF Ken Henderson (.348, 1 HR, 3 RBI) has three hits and three runs batted in, Bert Campaneris (.173) has three hits and Claudell Washington drives in three more as they lead the Rangers on a 19-hit attack and a 13-2 rout of Minnesota. Butch Wynegar (.317) has three hits for the Twins in the loss.

Vern Ruhle (2-1, 2.70 ERA) pitches seven shutout innings, giving up five hits and striking out four before a rain delay forces his exit. Two relievers hold the lead as Detroit wins their fourth straight with a 3-2 victory over the Red Sox.

California continues to win behind their fantastic pitching staff - this time Frank Tanana (3-0, 1.34 ERA) quiets the White Sox 5-2. Tanana goes eight innings giving up six hits and striking out six while allowing both earned runs.

Toronto scores three times in the top of the ninth inning to defeat the Yankees 5-4 and take three of the four games at Yankee Stadium. Yankees starter Ron Guidry (2.89 ERA) strikes out nine over eight innings, but closer Sparky Lyle (0-1, 1 BS, 4.05 ERA) gives up four hits in the ninth - the last being a two-run double by Bob Bailor (.224, 5 RBI). Doug Ault (.346, 4 RBI) paces the division leading Blue Jays with three hits, while Mickey Rivers (.250, 4 RBI) does the same for New York.

Trades
- Trades 25-year old SS Jimmy Sexton ($59,885 with Automatic renewal)
1977 Stats:
.273 (6-22) / 4 R / 2 2B / 1 3B /0 HR / 0 RBI / 0 BB /1 K / .273 OBP / .455 SLG
1976 Stats: Did not play in Majors in 1976.

- Trades 29-year old RF Tom Grieve ($301,920 over 2 years @ $150,960 per year)
1977 Stats: .389 (7-18) / 3 R / 4 2B / 0 HR / 5 RBI / 2 BB / 1 K / .450 OBP / .611 SLG
1976 Stats: .255 / 57 R / 23 2B / 3 3B / 20 HR / 81 RBI / .301 OBP / .418 SLG

------------ and 22-year old 1B Jerry Kirk (Minor League Contract) .
1977 Stats (AA): .214 (15-70) / 9 R / 2 2B / 1 3B / 0 HR / 8 RBI / 6 BB / 11 K / .282 OBP / .271 SLG

Contract Signings
- CL Mark Littell signed a 2-year extension worth a total of $958,000.
------------ He will earn $479,000 a year through 1979.
- SP Jim Colborn signed a 2-year extension worth a total of $226,000.
------------ He will earn $113,000 a year through 1979.

Major Transactions
- SS Jimmy Sexton placed on the active roster (from trade).
------------ SP Tommy Boggs contract purchased from Triple A Tucson.
------------ 3B Len Randle optioned to Triple A Tucson.
- RF Tom Grieve placed on the active roster (from trade).
------------ 3B Tommy Helms claimed from Pittsburgh and placed on the active roster.
------------ RF Carlos Lopez optioned to Triple A Sidney.
- SS Roy Smalley activated from the disabled list.
------------ SS Leo Gomez optioned to Triple A Tacoma.


Friday, April 22
Eric Rasmussen (2-2, 2.12 ERA) throws a three-hit shutout and Ted Simmons (.250, 2 HR, 6 RBI) has three hits and three runs batted in as St. Louis hands Philadelphia a 8-0 beating. Rasmussen strikes out six and walks just one and Buddy Bell (.244, 1 HR, 2 RBI) adds three hits for the Cards.

Houston defeats the Padres 7-0 behind the pitching of starter J.R. Richard (3-1, 2.59 ERA), who holds San Diego to just three hits through eight innings and strikes out eight. Randy Jones (6.29 ERA) drops to 0-4 this season for the Padres.

Dodgers starter Doug Rau (3-1, 3.81 ERA) scatters eight hits, but none do any damage as Atlanta fails to score a run and lose to Los Angeles 5-0. Rau strikes out five in the complete game shutout. Rowland Office (.368) continues to shine for the Braves - getting three more hits in the loss.

Pete Rose (.308, 11 RBI) has four hits - two doubles - and three runs batted in while Johnny Bench (.302, 13 RBI) adds three of his own as Cincinnati wins their seventh in a row with a 12-2 trashing of the Cubs. Rookie Steve Ontiveros (.302, 7 RBI) has three of Chicago's six hits and drove in both runs in the loss.

Yankees DH Lou Pinella (.291, 1 HR, 7 RBI) hits a three-run blast in the top of the ninth inning off of Indians reliever Lary Anderson to give New York a 5-3 win over the Tribe. Graig Nettles (.391) has another three-hit day to continue to lead the AL in hitting.

Minnesota loses their sixth straight game as starter Gary Serum (1-1, 6.43 ERA) walks six and throws two wild pitches while Mike Cubbage (3rd error) makes a key error that helps hand Texas a 6-2 win over the Twins.

Kansas City uses some timely hitting to squeak by the Mariners 6-5 to win their sixth straight contest. The Royals only have eight hits on the game but seemingly make each one count - the last being a two-run home run by John Mayberry (.216, 1 HR, 4 RBI). Seattle's DH Steve Braun (.269, 5 RBI) has three hits in the loss.

Al Oliver (.460, 16 RBI) has four hits, but none as important as the RBI-single he hits in the top of the 12th inning to bring home Ed Ott and give the Pirates a 4-3 victory over New York. Oliver has had an amazing April, going 23-for-50 to date with six doubles, three home runs and eight runs scored and is currently riding a 12-game hitting streak.

Injuries
- RF Tom Grieve is day-to-day for about 4 days with a damaged meniscus (knee).

Contract Signings
- SS Freddie Patek signed a 1-year extension worth a total of $140,000.

Major Transactions
- 3B Dave Chalk claimed from Texas and placed on the active roster.
------------ SS Ron Washington optioned to Triple A Albuquerque.
- C Bob Stinson claimed from Seattle and placed on the active roster.
------------ C Dave Roberts optioned to Triple A Hawaii.


Saturday, April 23
Jim Lonborg (1-1, 3.13 ERA) throws eight shutout innings, giving up five hits and striking out seven as Philadelphia gains a 5-1 win over the Cardinals. Garry Maddox (.275, 2 HR, 8 RBI) hits two home runs to lead the offense. St. Louis starter Pete Falcone was forced to leave the game in the third inning with what is beleived to be a strained bicep.

Baltimore RF Pat Kelly (.321, 3 HR, 11 RBI) drives in four runs and hits his third home run of the year as the Orioles beat Detroit 8-3 in Tigers Stadium. Ron LeFlore (.358, 7 RBI) has three hits in the loss which snaps Detroit's five game winning streak.

Red Sox starter Rick Wise (1-2, 4.56 ERA) gives up a two-run blast to Ron Fairly (.316, 3 HR, 8 RBI)Carlton Fisk (.425) has four hits and George Scott (.250, 8 RBI) drives in three in the win.

The Padres push across a run in the top of the 10th inning without a hit to give San Diego a 2-1 win over the Astros in the first game of a afternoon doubleheader. Two walks, a deep fly out to advance the runner to third and a broken up double play attempt gets the job done. Padres starter Bob Shirley (2.33 ERA) goes eight innings scattering eight hits and striking out six, while Houston's Joe Niekro (7.36 ERA) goes eight innings allowing just four hits. However, both get no-decisions. Mike Ivie (.267) has three hits in the second game, but Ken Forsch (1-1, 3.24 ERA) combines with three relievers to sut out San Diego, 4-0.

Cleveland's Alfredo Griffin pinch runs for Rico Carty (.311) in the bottom of the ninth inning, moves to second on a Dick Tidrow (0-2) passed ball, steals third base a few batters later and finally scores on a Jim Norris (6 RBI) sacrifice fly to give the Tribe a 3-2 win over the Yankees. CF Mickey Rivers (.262) collects three hits for New York in the loss.

Injuries
- MR Doug Bair is expected to miss about 8 months with a fractured elbow.
------------ Placed on the 60-day disabled list.
------------ SP Joe Coleman recalled from Triple A San Jose.
- SP Pete Falcone is expected to miss about 2 weeks with a strained bicep.
------------ Placed on the 15-day disabled list.
------------ SP Doug Capilla recalled from Triple A New Orleans.

Contract Signings
- 3B Pete Rose signed a 3-year extension worth a total of $6,942,000.
------------ He will earn $2,314,000 a year through 1979.
------------ He has a player option for $2,314,000 in 1980.



Players of the Week

American League Player of the Week:
RF Ben Oglivie - Detroit Tigers
He batted .450 (9-20), with 4 HR, 9 RBI and 2 runs scored.
1977 Stats: .277 / 10 R / 2 2B / 1 3B /5 HR / 17 RBI / 4 BB / 9 K / .319 OBP / .569 SLG

National League Player of the Week
LF Al Oliver - Pittsburgh Pirates
He batted .444 (12-27), with 2 HR, 8 RBI, and 4 runs scored.
1977 Stats: .431 / 9 R / 6 2B / 0 3B / 3 HR / 16 RBI / 4 BB /3 K / .468 OBP / .690 SLG