GOG #35:  ALCS -- A's vs. Tigers

1. Series outcome (Please specify):
   
2. Who is named ALCS MVP?
   
3. Tigers starter to have the best series:
   
4. The Gambler's series -- Starts/ER/K:
   
5. HR hit by the A's:
   
6. Runs scored in the highest scoring game:
   
7. A's killer Polanco's series -- H/RBI/SB:
   
8. Athletic to score the most runs:
   
9. Shortest outing by a starting pitcher -- Name/IP:
   
10. NLCS outcome (Please specify):
    
11. Does a pitcher win two or more games in the series?
    
12. Is there a walk off game?  (For better or for worse)
    
13. Team to commit more errors:
    
14. Better series -- Kendall or Pudge?
    
15. Does a team blow a lead after the 7th inning?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-8).  Up to 4 points for question #9 & 10 (2 points for each part).  In questions 11-15, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is game time on Tuesday.

LET'S GO A's!!!!!

PS:
I know I haven't posted the results of the last few GOGs.  I'm extremley sorry about that.  I'll have them ready at the end of the ALCS!

GOG #34:  A's vs. Twins

1. Series outcome (Please specify exactly):
   
2. Big Hurt's series -- H/RBI/BB:
   
3. Athletic to have the most success against Santana:
   
4. Twins IF to have the best series:
   
5. Athletic with the most hits:
   
6. Runs scored in the lowest scoring game:
   
7. Street's series -- Appearances/ER/Sv:
   
8. Santana in Game 1 -- IP/K:
   
9. Which two teams make it to the NLCS?
   
10. Outcome of the Yankees/Tigers series:
    
11. Does a player hit more than 1 HR?  If so, who?
    
12. Does a pitcher get two or more wins in the series?
    
13. Extra innings in any game?
    
14. Who hurts the A's more -- Morneau or Cuddyer?
    
15. Better series -- Loaiza or Haren?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for questions #8 &9 (2 points for each part). Up to 3 points for question #10. In questions 11-15, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is game time on Tuesday.

LET'S GO A's!!!!!

As the title indicates, this is the final regular season GOG.  The questions in this game pertain to the rest of the regular season.
If the A's make it to the playoffs, there will be a postseason GOG.  <Prays to baseball gods>
Also, if you have any suggestions for the postseason GOG, I would love to hear them!

GOG #33:  Final Regular Season Game

1. How many games do the A's win this year?
   
2. When will the AL West be clinched?
   
3. Starts for Melhuse the rest of the way:
   
4. How many runs do the A's score this season?
   
5. Team ERA for 2006:
   
6. How many HR does Thomas hit this year?
   
7. How many saves does Huston finish with?
   
8. How many games do the Angels win this year?
   
9. Team HR for the season:
   
10. Harden gets two more regular season starts -- IP/ER:
    
11. Does Swisher reach the 100 RBI mark?
    
12. Does any Athletic finish with a .300 or higher batting avg?
    
13. Windsor or Komine get another start?
    
14. Lower ERA at the end of the season -- Duke or Kiko?
    
15. AL Central winner -- Twins or Tigers?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-9).  Up to 4 points for question #10 (2 points for each part).  In questions 11-15, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is game time on Monday.

LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #32 Results:  A's vs. the team that plays in Anaheim (Link)

1. Series outcome:  LAAAAA wins 2/3
   
2. Best outing by an Anaheim starter:  Santana
   
3. Big Vlad's series -- HR/RBI/IBB:  1/2/2
   
4. Athletic to have the most success against Weaver:  Bradley, Chavez, Swisher
   
5. Friday's attendance:  35,077
   
6. How many times does Kendall reach base safely against Lackey?  1
   
7. Run differential in the most lop-sided game:  6
   
8. Zito's outing -- IP/BB:  7.2/3
   
9. Do the A's clinch the division during this series?  If so, when?  No
   
10. Better series - Anderson or Thomas?  Anderson
    
11. Figgins steals 4 more bases?  No
    
12. More hits -- Kendrick or Rivera?  Rivera
    
13. Team with more xbh:  LAAAA

Scores:
kinselofant  6
JLaff  -1
Kelly  8
HollywoodOz  8
Oaktownmagical07  2
greekpride08  0
lerei  3
FormerHuntsvilleStar  13  (Winner!)
Flyin As  4
eamb  9
scutaroknowstheway  6
natebball  7
BleacherDave  7
athleticsINky  8
mkt  4
gigglingone  8
streetfan  5
PhilipChristy  9
F171615  12
bzn5150  6
npcody  11
oaklandpete  6
AsGirl  4
Noodler29  10
lurkerD  4
Poppy  0
baseballnut020  5

Poll

When is the AL West clinched?

0%

Friday, 9/29

0 votes

18%

Monday, 9/25

6 votes

0%

Saturday, 9/30

0 votes

60%

Tuesday, 9/26

20 votes

0%

Sunday, 10/01

0 votes

12%

Wednesday, 9/27

4 votes

3%

Monday, 10/02 - - One game playoff

1 votes

6%

Thursday, 9/28

2 votes

33 votes | Poll has closed

GOG #32:  A's vs. the team that plays in Anaheim

1. Series outcome:
   
2. Best outing by an Anaheim starter:
   
3. Big Vlad's series -- HR/RBI/IBB:
   
4. Athletic to have the most success against Weaver:
   
5. Friday's attendance:
   
6. How many times does Kendall reach base safely against Lackey?
   
7. Run differential in the most lop-sided game:
   
8. Zito's outing -- IP/BB:
   
9. Do the A's clinch the division during this series?  If so, when?
   
10. Better series -- Anderson or Thomas?
    
11. Figgins steals 4 more bases?
    
12. More hits -- Kendrick or Rivera?
    
13. Team with more xbh:  

Bonus:  Whines per inning for Scioscia:

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is game time on Friday.

LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #31 Results:  A's vs. Indians (Link)

1. Series outcome (4 games):  A's win 3/4
   
2. Player to score the most runs:  Blake, Sizemore
   
3. Worst outing by a Cleveland starter:  Sabathia
   
4. Multi-hit games for Kendall:  1
   
5. Return of King Richard(?) -- Harden's ER/K/BB:  1/7/1
   
6. Total quality starts in the series:  3
   
7. What is the A's magic number after Thursday's games:  4
   
8. Huston's series -- IP/Sv:  3/2
   
9. Big Hurt hits 2 or more HR?  No
   
10. Pitching staff to record more K's:  A's
    
11. Does a batter draw at least 3BB in a game?  No
    
12. More K's -- MaEl or Scutaro?  Scutaro
    
13. Better series -- Chavy or Swisher?  Swisher

Scores:
greekpride08  10
eamb  2
Philip Christy  8
mkt  4
Kimberly  4
kinselofant  7
Flyin As  8
FabulousG  9
athletincsINky  8
vignette17  3
lerei  8
HollywoodOz  10
WhiteElephantGuy  10
WaddellCanseco  6
DMOAS  3
Oaktownmagical07  7
whobob  11
anAfromfaraway  5
senork  4
oaklandbbfan  13
bzn5150  6
lurkerD  8
oaklandpete  10
KrautBall  8
Kelly  8
AsFanInLA  9
JLaff  16  (Winner!)
tresselfan  6
superhombre10  5
Howler  8
peanut gallery  11
F171615  6
high street  12
FreeSeatUpgrade  8
Poppy  11
natebball  8
AsGirl  10
gigglingone  12
Rickeyfan  7
FormerHuntsvilleStar  9
I miss Jason Giambi  1
Noodler29  7
TurnTwo  9

Update [2006-9-18 16:35:12 by AsGirl]:A's/White Sox results added!

GOG #31:  A's vs. Indians

1. Series outcome (4 games):
   
2. Player to score the most runs:
   
3. Worst outing by a Cleveland starter:
   
4. Multi-hit games for Kendall:
   
5. Return of King Richard(?) -- Harden's ER/K/BB:
   
6. Total quality starts in the series:
   
7. What is the A's magic number after Thursday's games:
   
8. Huston's series -- IP/Sv:
   
9. Big Hurt hits 2 or more HR?
   
10. Pitching staff to record more K's:
    
11. Does a batter draw at least 3BB in a game?
    
12. More K's -- MaEl or Scutaro?
    
13. Better series -- Chavy or Swisher?

Deadline is gametime on Monday.

LET'S GO OAKLAND!!!

GOG #30 Results: A's vs. White Sox (Link)

1. Series outcome: A's sweep!
   
2. Runs scored in the highest scoring game: 11
   
3. Athletic to have the most success against Garland: Scutaro
   
4. Big Frank's series -- H/HR/RBI: 3/2/7
   
5. White Sox IF to have the best series: Gload
   
6. How many double figure hit games for the A's? 1
   
7. Outcome of the Anaheim @Texas series (4 games): 2-2
   
8. A's bullpen's IP/ER: 8/2
   
9. Is there a scoreless game going into the 5th? No
   
10. Dye hits a HR? Yes
    
11. Better outing -- Zito or Cupcakes? Cupcakes
    
12. Is there an outfield assist in the series? Yes
    
13. Extra innings in any game? No

Scores:
AsGirl 8
eamb 9
mkt 8
high street 16 (Winner!)
Poppy 8
Philip Christy 5
natebball 10
FreeSeatUpgrade 9
athleticsINky 9
VacaFan 5
Kelly -1
Flyin As 9
dmcewecan 6
FormerHuntsvilleStar 13
oaklandpete 7
gigglingone 3
JLaff 10
lerei 11
Oaktownmagical07 9
AsFanInLA 10
Elvez 15
whobob 10
F171615 8
kinselofant 15
WhiteElephantGuy 2
Kimberly 7
HollywoodOz 8
streetfan 10
WaddellCanseco 6
The Lonesome Undertaker 5
oaklandbbfan 7
littleA 3
peanut gallery 11
Howler 8
Noodler29 11

GOG #30:  A's vs. White Sox

1. Series outcome:
   
2. Runs scored in the highest scoring game:
   
3. Athletic to have the most success against Garland:
   
4. Big Frank's series -- H/HR/RBI:
   
5. White Sox IF to have the best series:
   
6. How many double figure hit games for the A's?
   
7. Outcome of the Anaheim @Texas series (4 games):
   
8. A's bullpen's IP/ER:
   
9. Is there a scoreless game going into the 5th?
   
10. Dye hits a HR?
    
11. Better outing -- Zito or Cupcakes?
    
12. Is there an outfield assist in the series?
    
13. Extra innings in any game?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is game time on Friday.

LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #29 Results:  A's @Minnesota

1. Series outcome:  Twins win 2/3
   
2. Twinkie with the most RBI:  Cuddyer
   
3. How many games decided by 1 or 2 runs?  2
   
4. Twin killing -- DPs turned by the A's:  5
   
5. Liriano's outing -- ER/K/Decision:  0/2/ND
   
6. Starter to allow the most BB:  Blanton
   
7. Total runs scored in the 1st inning:  2
   
8. Errors for each team:  A's 3, Twins 2
   
9. Big Hurt hits a HR?  Yes
   
10. Haren gives up a HR?  No
    
11. Better bullpen?  Twins
    
12. More hits -- Thomas or Morneau?  Morneau
    
13. Better series -- Mauer or Kendall?  Kendall

 
Scores:
eamb  10
kinselofant  4
Kelly  10
high street  8
Flyin As  1
Zonis  6
greekpride08  3
whobob  13
Kimberly  2
lerei  1
AsGirl  2
natebball  7
lurkerD  7
athleticsINky  12
Robb  12
vignette17  15  (Winner!)
SLOtown  5
gigglingone  11
Jordan33 in Santa Cruz  0
Oaktownmagical07  2
TurnTwo  5
dmcewecan  13
Jjjsixsix  5
dbeach13  6
Noodler29  5
oaklandbbfan  1
The Lonesome Undertaker  10
Poppy  1
mkt  7
Philip Christy  7
WaddellCanseco  9
F171615  8
bzn5150  5
HollywoodOz  1
SD Erik  4
JLaff  -1
FormerHuntsvilleStar  10

Update [2006-9-10 19:46:50 by AsGirl]:Results added.

GOG #29:  A's @Minnesota

1. Series outcome:
   
2. Twinkie with the most RBI:
   
3. How many games decided by 1 or 2 runs?
   
4. Twin killing -- DPs turned by the A's:
   
5. Liriano's outing -- ER/K/Decision:
   
6. Starter to allow the most BB:
   
7. Total runs scored in the 1st inning:
   
8. Errors for each team:
   
9. Big Hurt hits a HR?
   
10. Haren gives up a HR?
    
11. Better bullpen?
    
12. More hits -- Thomas or Morneau?
    
13. Better series -- Mauer or Kendall?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is game time on Monday.

LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #28 Results: A?s @Tampa Bay

1. Series outcome: A?s win 2/3
2. Runs scored by the A?s: 23
3. Best outing by an A?s starter: Zito*
4. Name any player who hits a HR in this series: Norton, Baldelli, Cantu, Swisher, Chavez, Scutaro, and of course, the Big Hurt.
5. SB for the D-Rays: 4
6. Delmon Young?s series -- H/R/RBI: 6/4/2
7. Outcome of the Toronto @LAAAA series: LAA win 2/3
8. D-Ray?s bullpen -- IP/ER: 14.2/8
9. More IP -- Gaudin or Kennedy? Kennedy
10. More total bases -- DJ or Swisher? Swisher
11. Jeremy Brown gets a plate appearance? No
12. Does a starter fail to complete 5 innings? Yes
13. Team with more LOB: A?s

*Determined using the following scoring formula: Start with 50 points. Add 1 point for each out recorded, (3 points per inning). Add 2 points for each inning completed after the 4th. Add 1 point for each strikeout. Subtract 2 points for each hit allowed. Subtract 4 points for each earned run allowed. Subtract 2 points for each unearned run allowed. Subtract 1 point for each walk. Zito = 35 points, Haren = 34 points, Loaiza = 16 points

Scores:
kinselofant 13
Flyin As 8
Kelly 11
oaklandpete 9
TrojaNoava 9
whobob 15
SLOtown 5
Robb 14
lerei 7
TurnTwo 8
The Lonesome Undertaker 10
Jjjsixsix 8
HollywoodOz 10
vignette17 9
greekpride08 11
Philip Christy 15
WaddellCanseco 12
JLaff 13
athleticsINky 15
eamb 5
littleA 1
FongPay 7
high street 10
lurkerD 4
Poppy 6
dbeach13 7
AsGirl 9
Kimberly 12
streetfan 9
OaktownPower 12
oaklandbbfan 11
FormerHuntsvilleStar 7

Three-way tie for winner!

GOG #28:  A's @Tampa Bay

1. Series outcome:
   
2. Runs scored by the A's:
   
3. Best outing by an A's starter:
   
4. Name any player who hits a HR in this series:
   
5. SB for the D-Rays:
   
6. <Throws bat> -- Delmon Young's series -- H/R/RBI:
   
7. Outcome of the Toronto @LAAAA series:
   
8. D-Ray's bullpen -- IP/ER:
   
9. More IP -- Gaudin or Kennedy?
   
10. More total bases -- DJ or Swisher?
    
11. Jeremy Brown gets a plate appearance?
    
12. Does a starter fail to complete 5 innings?
    
13. Team with more LOB:  

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is game time on Friday.

LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #27 Results:  A's vs. Rangers (Link)

1. Series outcome:  Rangers win 2/3
   
2. Name any winning pitcher in the series:  Tejeda, Eaton, Blanton
   
3. Ranger to have the most success against Zito:  Cruz
   
4. Fewest runs scored by the A's in a game:  1
   
5. Athletic to reach base safely the most times:  Bradley
   
6. Rangers reliever to have the worst series:  Rupe
   
7. DJ's series -- Starts/H/BB:  2/2/1
   
8. Padilla's line -- IP/ER:  5.2/6
   
9. Melhuse gets a start?  No
   
10. Do the Rangers score an unearned run?  No
    
11. Any blown leads in the 8th or 9th?  No
    
12. More hits -- Teixiera or Young?  Young
    
13. Pitching staff to record more K's:  Texas

Scores:
lerei  2
kinselofant  4
vignette17  5
SLOtown  3
whobob  1
eamb  0
Flyin As  2
Kelly  3
The Lonesome Undertaker  2
gigglingone  3
Oaktownmagical07  6
AsGirl  6
Jjjsixsix  11  (Winner!)
Philip Christy  1
WaddellCanseco  1
F171615  1
baseballnut020  1
yblood2hof  3
athleticsINky  2
oaklandbbfan  5
FormerHuntsvilleStar  1
SD Erik  0
high street  2
Noodler29  -3
Rickeyfan  1
mkt  0
hit it long T  2

Update [2006-9-3 23:42:13 by AsGirl]:Results added!

GOG #27:  A's vs. Rangers

1. Series outcome:
   
2. Name any winning pitcher in the series:
   
3. Ranger to have the most success against Zito:
   
4. Fewest runs scored by the A's in a game:
   
5. Athletic to reach base safely the most times:
   
6. Rangers reliever to have the worst series:
   
7. DJ's series -- Starts/H/BB:
   
8. Padilla's line -- IP/ER:
   
9. Melhuse gets a start?
   
10. Do the Rangers score an unearned run?
    
11. Any blown leads in the 8th or 9th?
    
12. More hits -- Teixiera or Young?
    
13. Pitching staff to record more K's:

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is game time on Monday.  

REMINDER:  1:05 PM start on Monday.

LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #26 Results: A?s vs. Orioles (Link)

1. Series outcome: A?s win 2/3
2. HR hit by the A?s: 5
3. Best outing by an A?s starter: E.Lo
4. Swisher?s series -- H/R/RBI: 2/2/1
5. Best pitching match up: Blanton/Bedard
6. Run differential in the most lopsided game: 9
7. Athletic with the most hits: MaEl
8. Total games won by LAA (@Detroit) and Texas (vs. Cle) in their next series: 3
9. A?s bullpen?s IP/ER: 8/1
10. Team to score more runs in the first 2 innings: A?s
11. More runs scored ? Kendall or Kotsay? Kendall
12. Which team?s #9 hitter has the better series? A?s
13. Does a starter pitch into the 8th? Yes
14. Miggy hits a HR? No

Scores:
kinselofant 15
Jjjsixsix 2
Oaktownmagical07 9
SD Erik 9
SLOtown 11
Flyin As 16
AsGirl 10
dbeach13 17
The Lonesome Undertaker 18
athletcsINky 14
flipper33 8
gigglingone 13
WaddellCanseco 5
lerei 17
oaklandbbfan 10
Philip Christy 2
HollywoodOz 11
harenshair 10
rungood 15
bzn5150 12
burnone 11
high street 17
peanut gallery 17
eamb 8
Noodler29 19 -- WINNER!!!
baseballnut020 9
mkt 15
JLaff 14
Poppy 13
Rickeyfan 18
OaktownPower 7
littleA 16
FormerHuntsvilleStar 14

GOG #26:  A's vs. Orioles

1. Series outcome:
   
2. HR hit by the A's:
   
3. Best outing by an A's starter:
   
4. Swisher's series -- H/R/RBI:
   
5. Best pitching match up:
   
6. Run differential in the most lopsided game:
   
7. Athletic with the most hits:
   
8. Total games won by LAA (@Detroit) and Texas (vs. Cle) in their next series:
   
9. A's bullpen's IP/ER:
   
10. Team to score more runs in the first 2 innings:
    
11. More runs scored - Kendall or Kotsay?
    
12. Which team's #9 hitter has the better series?
    
13. Does a starter pitch into the 8th?
    
14. Miggy hits a HR?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-8).  Up to 4 points for question #9 (2 points for each part).  In questions 10-14, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is game time on Friday.

LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #25 Results:  A's vs. Red Sox (Link)

1. Series Outcome:  A's sweep!
   
2. Red Sox OF to have the best series:  Hinske
   
3. Big Papi's series -- H/HR/IBB:  Ortiz DNP.  No points.
   
4. 1 K away from 3000 -- Which Athletic becomes Schilling's 3000th victim?  Swisher
   
5. Does Zito get a win, loss, or ND?  W
   
6. A's reliever to pitch the most innings:  Kennedy
   
7. Athletic to score the most runs:  Ellis and Scutaro
   
8. Papelbon's series -- Sv/Sv Opp:  0/0
   
9. Does a batter draw at least 3 BB in a game?  Yes
   
10. Either team scores 10 or more runs in a game?  No
    
11. Bullpen to have the better series:  A's
    
12. Any walk off wins?  No
    
13. Does a batter (who plays all 3 games) fail to reach base safely base safely in the series? No

Scores:
baseballnut020  15  (Winner!)
Jjjsixsix  -3
AsGirl  3
kinselofant  10
WhiteElephantGuy  1
mkt  0
WaddellCanseco  -3
athleticsINky  10
HollywoodOz  9
dmcewan  3
Philip Christy  -1
JLaff  2
TurnTwo  2
bzn5150  9
Poppy  7
Kelly  5
oaklandbbfan  4
Flyin As  5
gigglingone  3
oaklandpete  2
Rickeyfan  0
peanut gallery  5
greekpride08  11
eamb  -1
I miss Jason Giambi  4
PDXAthleticsfan  7
Carlos1118  10
franks a lot  13
SD Erik  9
FormerHuntsvilleStar  -1
littleA  6
teenster  13
Noodler29  8
lerei  11
rungood  4
F171615  11
KrautBall  5
Kimberly  5

GOG #25:  A's vs. Red Sox

1. Series Outcome:
   
2. Red Sox OF to have the best series:
   
3. Big Papi's series -- H/HR/IBB:
   
4. 1 K away from 3000 -- Which Athletic becomes Schilling's 3000th victim?
   
5. Does Zito get a win, loss, or ND?
   
6. A's reliever to pitch the most innings:
   
7. Athletic to score the most runs:
   
8. Papelbon's series -- Sv/Sv Opp:
   
9. Does a batter draw at least 3 BB in a game?
   
10. Either team scores 10 or more runs in a game?
    
11. Bullpen to have the better series:
    
12. Any walk off wins?
    
13. Does a batter (who plays all 3 games) fail to reach base safely base safely in the series?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is game time on Monday.
LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #24 Results:  A's @Rangers (Link)

1. Series outcome:  A's win 2/3
   
2. Most LOB in a game by the A's:  11
   
3. Athletic with the most XBH:  Bradley, Ellis, Swisher
   
4. Total runs scored in the 9th inning:  9
   
5. Chavy's series -- H/HR/RBI:  3/0/0
   
6. IP by the Texas starters:  15.0
   
7. Outcome of the NYY @Anaheim series:  2-1 Anaheim
   
8. Zito's IP/ER:  8.1/1
   
9. Team to hit into more DPs:  A's
   
10. Better series -- Young or Lee?  Lee
    
11. More runs allowed -- Eaton or Padilla?  Eaton
    
12. Does a team blow a lead of 4 runs or more?  No
    
13. Is there a one run game?  No

Scores:
AsGirl  8
Flyin As  1
Noodler29  11
kinselofant  6
lerei  4
broncobert  4
Mr. Athletics  4
mkt  7
Jjjsixsix  3
zaniac  7
Philip Christy  7
eamb  13  (Co-Winner!)
streetfan  2
dmcewan  6
WaddellCanseco  3
greekpride08  8
TurnTwo  -1
bzn5150  4
The Lonesome Undertaker  12
SD Erik  11
peanut gallery  6
athleticsINky  13  (Co-Winner!)
high street  2
Poppy  3
Kimberly  3
JLaff  10
F171615  10
dbeach13  12
SLOtown  10
FormerHuntsvilleStar  4

GOG #24:  A's @Rangers

1. Series outcome:
   
2. Most LOB in a game by the A's:
   
3. Athletic with the most XBH:
   
4. Total runs scored in the 9th inning:
   
5. Chavy's series -- H/HR/RBI:
   
6. IP by the Texas starters:
   
7. Outcome of the NYY @Anaheim series:
   
8. Zito's IP/ER:
   
9. Team to hit into more DPs:
   
10. Better series -- Young or Lee?
    
11. More runs allowed -- Eaton or Padilla?
    
12. Does a team blow a lead of 4 runs or more?
    
13. Is there a one run game?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline game time on Friday.
LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #23 Results:  A's @Blue Jays  (Link)

1. Series outcome:  A's win 2/3
   
2. Best pitching match-up:  Burnett vs.Halsey
   
3. Athletic with the most RBI:  Bradley
   
4. Starter to allow the most hits and walks:  Haren
   
5. Runs scored in the lowest scoring game:  6
   
6. A's OF to have the best series:  Kielty.  Partial credit for Payton and Bradley
   
7. Haren's ER/K/BB:  9ER/4K/2BB
   
8. Errors for each team:  1 error by each team
   
9. Does BJ Ryan get a 3+ out save?  Yes
   
10. Do the A's score more runs in innings 1-4 or 5-9?  1-4
    
11. More XBH -- Glaus or Wells?  Wells
    
12. Does a player have a 3 hit game?  Yes
    
13. Better series -- Crosby or Ellis? Answer pending poll results. ;)

Scores:
Flyin As  12  
JLaff  8
Kimberly  11
flipper33  5
zaniac  8
bzn5150  5
kinselofant  11
OaktownPower  7
jme  9
AsGirl  -1
mkt  6
athleticsINky  3
scutaroknowstheway  7
ohad  10
HollywoodOz  9
TurnTwo  8
pinkfloyd  7
Robb  6
lerei  8
Jjjsixsix  8
Noodler29  10
Philip Christy 7
WhiteElephantGuy  4
F171615  5
WaddellCanseco  2
Poppy  6
franks a lot  7
peanut gallery  4
signmebilly  5
high street  3
norcaldevilasu  3
gigglingone  5
Athletics fan and runner  4
arch  9
Rickeyfan  9
dbeach13  2
FormerHuntsvilleStar  1
misfit toy  7

Poll

(Question #13 of GOG #23) Better series - - Ellis or Crosby?

53%

Ellis... he stayed healthy

15 votes

17%

Crosby

5 votes

28%

No points, since Crosby got hurt

8 votes

28 votes | Poll has closed

Check out this awesome win expectancy graph from FanGraphs.  :D

Game Recaps:

• A's use big innings to take series opener  (A's website)
  
• Jays lose tight game after altercation  (Blue Jays website)
  
• Eight Isn't Enough  (SF Chronicle)
  
• A's, down 8-0, rally for victory  (Mercury News)
  
• A's fight back; Blue Jays just fight  (CC Times)

And oh yeah, this is also "The One After the Altercation."

Gibbons didn't discuss the altercation with the other players, many of whom were also witnesses when the manager challenged departed designated hitter Shea Hillenbrand to a fight on July 19. Toronto center fielder Vernon Wells said Gibbons didn't need to explain himself for the latest argument, which began when he pulled Lilly from the game in the third inning.
He doesn't need to talk to us -- that's their situation," Wells said. "Things are going to happen. You've just got to be able to weather the storm."

Jays President and CEO Paul Godfrey was happy with how Lilly and Gibbons handled the situation after the game and insisted he was more upset about the loss. After all, the Jays led, 8-0, before allowing the A's to come back and win.

"From my point of view, that was a one-night skirmish," Godfrey said. "I think the worst part was we didn't win the game. I'll have trouble sleeping about that."

Chavy will be cutting back on batting practice, hoping that it will limit the wear and tear in his forearms:

A's third baseman Eric Chavez won't take much batting practice the rest of the season. If Monday is an indication, he won't need it.

Chavez felt the tendinitis starting to return to his forearms recently, so he will take batting practice only the first day of a series. He hopes that limits the wear and tear and he can get loose enough to contribute offensively.

Chavez was dropped to eighth in the batting order Monday, where he hit during the worst days of his injury last month, but had a big game. His 10-pitch walk ignited the seven-run third. He also doubled twice and singled.

``I was feeling good, then I started swinging a lot and it came back,'' Chavez said. ``I decided it's better to shut it down. I felt good. I don't foresee being in the eight-hole. Ever. Again.''

Also:

Shortstop Bobby Crosby, who said Friday that he probably will have back pain the rest of the year, departed in the eighth with more back issues and will be re-evaluated today.

And...

Rich Harden made 45 throws before the game, extending out to 120 feet, and continues to feel good. The training staff is focusing on arm strength and arm speed, and not thinking about getting him on a mound yet.

Catfish Stew hearts Mark Redman.  Ok, not really.

The Angels are in a "danger zone."  Over the next 23 days, they play the Red Sox, Yankees, Tigers, and White Sox.  Should be fun.  But of course, they are saying all the right things.  Even Brendan "I hate Oakland" Donnelly:

Angels reliever Brendan Donnelly said the team needs to be within three games of Oakland's lead when the teams meet Sept. 22 for the first of their final seven games against each other. Others weren't so specific.

"I'm just hoping we have a chance there at the end," Shields said. "Of course we'd like to be leading by then which is a possibility. The A's are playing good ball right now, so that's going to be kind of tough. As long as we're in striking distance. What striking distance is, I don't know."

Brad Halsey takes the mound for the A's tonight.  First pitch at 4:07 PM PT.

Commence dumping.

GOG #23:  A's @Blue Jays  

1. Series outcome:  
   
2. Best pitching match-up:
   
3. Athletic with the most RBI:
   
4. Starter to allow the most hits and walks:
   
5. Runs scored in the lowest scoring game:
   
6. A's OF to have the best series:
   
7. Haren's ER/K/BB:
   
8. Errors for each team:
   
9. Does BJ Ryan get a 3+ out save?
   
10. Do the A's score more runs in innings 1-4 or 5-9?
    
11. More XBH -- Glaus or Wells?
    
12. Does a player have a 3 hit game?
    
13. Better series -- Crosby or Ellis?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is 4:04 PM PT Monday.
LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #22 RESULTS:  A's @Royals (Link)

1. Series outcome (4 games):  Split 2-2
   
2. A's reliever to have the best series:  Kennedy.  Partial credit for Gaudin
   
3. Runs scored in the highest scoring game:  10
   
4. HR for the A's:  3
   
5. IP by the Royals pen:  14.1
   
6. Kotsay's series -- H/R/RBI:  3/3/2
   
7. Scoring early (and often?) -- A's runs in innings 1-5:  7
   
8. Outcome of Friday's doubleheader:  A's lose both
   
9. Does a starter fail to complete at least 5 innings?  Yes
   
10. Do the A's commit an error in Game 2 of the DH?  Yes
    
11. Better series -- Berroa or Teahen?  Teahen
    
12. Does a player hit more than 1 HR?  No
    
13. Better outing -- Loaiza or Saarloos?  E.Lo

Scores:
Robb  2
AsGirl  7
ConditionOakland  7
PhilipChristy  6
WaddellCanseco  18 (Winner!) Way to kill everyone else's avg.  ;)
bzn5150  0
oaklandbbfan  7
lurkerD  -1
norcaldevilasu  7
gigglingone  3
kinselofant  2
peanut gallery  1
JLaff  7
mkt  3
Kimberly  0
rolliedigits  -1
eamb  3
signmebilly  -3
RickeyFan  9
hit it long T  6
OaktownPower  7
Flyin As  8
Mr. Athletics  3
Oaktownmagical07  2
harenshair  1
FormerHuntsvilleStar  1
Spidz34  4
high street  5
lerei  3
jme  4
dbeach13  6
Noodler29  6
F171615  3
broncobert  5
FreeSeatUpgrade  4
littleA  -1

GOG #22: A's @Royals

1. Series outcome (4 games):
   
2. A's reliever to have the best series:
   
3. Runs scored in the highest scoring game:
   
4. HR for the A's:
   
5. IP by the Royals pen:
   
6. Kotsay's series -- H/R/RBI:
   
7. Scoring early (and often?) -- A's runs in innings 1-5:
   
8. Outcome of Friday's doubleheader: Game 1/Game2*
   
9. Does a starter fail to complete at least 5 innings?
   
10. Do the A's commit an error in Game 2 of the DH?
    
11. Better series -- Berroa or Teahen?
    
12. Does a player hit more than 1 HR? If so, who?
    
13. Better outing -- Loaiza or Saarloos?

*No need to specify score. Just state whether the A's win or lose.

Please note: If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder: Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7). Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part). In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is 2:09 PM PT Friday.
LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #21 Results: A's vs. Mariners (Link)

1. Series outcome: A's sweep. Again.
   
2. Run differential for the A's in the series: +14
   
3. Worst outing by an M's starter: Pineiro
   
4. Zito's line -- ER/K/BB: 4/4/2
   
5. How many starters pitch into the 7th? None
   
6. Athletic with the most RBI: Swisher
   
7. Outcome of the LAA @Texas series (2 games): Split
   
8. Doubles for each team: A's 8/M's 5
   
9. Better series -- Big Hurt or Ibanez? Thomas
   
10. More runs scored -- Ichiro or Kendall? Neither player scored a run. No points.
    
11. Does either team get shut out in a game? Yes
    
12. Team to make more pitching changes: A's
    
13. Swisher hits a HR? Yes

Scores:
AsGirl  6
kinselofant  5
high street  10
oaklandbbfan  5
Flyin As  6
Mr. Athletics  6
Oaktownmagical07  8
lerei  10
jme  5
harenshair  9
ohad  3
blueconversechucks  4
SanTropez  4
broncobert  8
rolliedigits  1
Philip Christy  9
Noodler29  12  (Winner!)
norcaldevilasu  3
eamb  2
gigglingone  6
Kimberly  2
mkt  11
WaddellCanseco  6
F171615  11
Poppy  2
bzn5150  6
lurkerD  6
TurnTwo  7
signmebilly  9
FreeSeatUpgrade  6
peanut gallery  6
streetfan  3
FormerHuntsvilleStar  5
Robb  0
JLaff  9
athleticsINky  10
misfit toy  5

GOG #21:  A's vs. Mariners

1. Series outcome:
   
2. Run differential for the A's in the series:
   
3. Worst outing by an M's starter:
   
4. Zito's line -- ER/K/BB:
   
5. How many starters pitch into the 7th?
   
6. Athletic with the most RBI:
   
7. Outcome of the LAA @Texas series (2 games):
   
8. Doubles for each team:
   
9. Better series -- Big Hurt or Ibanez?
   
10. More runs scored -- Ichiro or Kendall?
    
11. Does either team get shut out in a game?
    
12. Team to make more pitching changes:
    
13. Swisher hits a HR?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is 7:04 PM PT Monday.
LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #20 RESULTS:  A's vs. D-Rays (Link)

1. Series outcome:  A's sweep!
   
2. Runs scored in the lowest scoring game:  4
   
3. A's reliever to strand the most inherited runners:  None.
   
4. SB for the D-Rays:  3
   
5. Player to score the most runs:  Norton and Scutaro
   
6. Name ANY losing pitcher in the series:  Kazmir, Fossum, Corcoran
   
7. Huston's series -- Sv/Sv Opp/H:  3/3/3
   
8. Swisher's BB/K:  0/2
   
9. Does a team blow a 9th inning lead?  No
   
10. Team with most hits in the series:  A's
    
11. Does D'Angelo Jiminez start a game?  No
    
12. Do the A's win a 1 run game?  No
    
13. More XBH -- Chavy or Swish?  Chavy

Scores:
kinselofant  13
ohad  5
Robb  0
rolliedigits  4
gigglingone  7
Jjjsixsix  3
Erik being Erik  6
Oaktowmagical07  10
Noodler29  8
TurnTwo  8
oaklandbbfan  13
AsGirl  9
WaddellCanseco  1
bzn5150  5
lerei  6
norcaldevilasu  9
Flyin As  8
high street  7
mkt  9
WhiteElephantGuy  7
eamb  1
F171615  7
JLaff  6
lurkerD  13
Poppy  8
ZeroIndulgence  7
Kimberly  8
hit it long T  7
jme  7
peanut gallery  13
littleA  5
FreeSeatUpgrade  9
senork  8
FormerHuntsvilleStar  2

GOG #20:  A's vs. Devil Rays

1. Series outcome:
   
2. Runs scored in the lowest scoring game:
   
3. A's reliever to strand the most inherited runners:
   
4. SB for the D-Rays:
   
5. Player to score the most runs:
   
6. Name ANY losing pitcher in the series:
   
7. Huston's series -- Sv/Sv Opp/H:
   
8. Swisher's BB/K:
   
9. Does a team blow a 9th inning lead?
   
10. Team with most hits in the series:
    
11. Does D'Angelo Jiminez start a game?
    
12. Do the A's win a 1 run game?
    
13. More XBH -- Chavy or Swish?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is 7:04 PM PT Friday.
LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #19 RESULTS: A's vs. Rangers  (LINK)

1. Series outcome:  A's win 2/3
   
2. Rangers player to have the best series:  DeRosa.  Partial credit for Teixeira, Blalock, & Lee
   
3. Runs scored by the A's:  14
   
4. Athletic to leave most runners on base:  Swisher
   
5. Michael freakin' Young's series: H/RBI/R:  4/2/2
   
6. A's infielder to have the best series:  Ellis
   
7. XBH for Bradley:  1
   
8. The Hawaiian Punch Out -- Komine's IP/ER:  3IP/4ER
   
9. Does Loaiza pitch into the 6th?  Yes
   
10. Team to commit more errors:  A's
    
11. Bullpen to allow more runs:  A's
    
12. Which defense turns more DPs?  A's
    
13. Extras in any game?  No

Scores:
AsGirl  10
signmebilly  6
Robb  7
Oaktownmagical07  4
kinselofant  10
SLOtown  7
TurnTwo  13 (The real WINNER!!!)
hit it Long T  7
Jjjsixsix  6
ohad  6
WaddellCanseco  2
gigglingone  11  
oaklandbbfan  5
Flyin As  0
WhiteElephantGuy  6
Philip Christy  5
OaktownPower  3
mkt  11
F171615  3
greekpride08  11
Poppy  12  (Runner up!)
norcaldevilasu  4
bzn5150  5
peanut gallery  6
stevea  2
littleA  2
FormerHuntsvilleStar  10
Noodler29  3
rolliedigits  2
JLaff  4
FreeSeatUpgrade  6
streetfan  4
eamb  9
broncobert  0

That Eric Chavez guy is pretty good in the hot corner, isn't he?  Macha certainly thinks so:

Macha said that Chavez's ability at the hot corner reminds him of Mike Schmidt and that Chavez should earn his sixth consecutive Gold Glove this season.
"I think hands down it's another Gold Glove for him," Macha said. "If people just watch the Toronto series [from July 27-30] ... they would all vote for him. He should [have] won the Gold Glove just on that series.'

I will be the 548421687th person to say... that play Chavy made yesterday was so freakin' AWESOME!  Wow.  
In case you missed it:

After Loaiza got Mark DeRosa to hit into a fielder's choice, he gave up his second double to Matt Stairs to put runners at second and third with one out. But Chavez showed why he is a five-time Gold Glove winner by snagging a sharp grounder off Ian Kinsler's bat, tagging DeRosa, then leaping over him and rifling a throw to complete his 30th double play of the season.

"Chavez [had] another tremendous play," Macha said. "They had second and third there and they were ready to score some runs. We had a big lift in the dugout after that happened."

"It's typical Eric," added Ellis. "Anybody that sees him play every day knows that he is the best third baseman in Major League Baseball. The range that he has separates him from everybody else."

Oh yes, and the A's won!

By the way, in case you missed Chavy and Swish on the BDSSP last night, you can watch it online. It was really awesome!

Injury/Illness Updates:

• Rich Harden could begin throwing this week, pending medical approval, of course.  That is not a typo.  Our favorite Canadian (or is it Canadien?) is on the verge of throwing again.  Exactly what he might be throwing is not quite clear yet.  Stay tuned.
   
  "I think we're getting close to throwing," the A's right-hander said before Monday's game against the Texas Rangers. ``We've got to make a decision. I feel pretty good. We'll just start out throwing and progress and see how it feels.''

Harden still has soreness in his right elbow but could get through a throwing program if the pain does not increase, according to trainer Larry Davis. ``He has an unhealed ulnar collateral ligament,'' Davis said. ``That's the reason why it still hurts.''

And get this --

Harden is also dealing with a sprained ankle suffered about a week ago. When the ankle heals, Harden should be cleared to pitch, according to A's orthopedist Jerrald Goldman.

Damn.  I'm locating this... just in case.

• Center fielder Mark Kotsay did not play Monday after a recurrence of back spasms. He left Sunday's game in Seattle early, and in June missed five games because of the problem. Kotsay probably will not play in the three-game series against Texas. Davis said the player could be back Friday. (From the above link)
  
• Frank Thomas: Thomas left the clubhouse with team physician Dr. Allan Pont, but Macha said Thomas was feeling ill and there was no problem with him physically. Thomas has started in 33 straight games.
  
• Joe Kennedy and Scott Sauerback made rehab appearances for the Rivercats last night.
  
  Kennedy, meanwhile, retired six of the seven batters he faced, allowing only a leadoff walk in the second inning. Sauerbeck gave up two hits and a walk in his two innings.
  

The Rivercats won on Hiram Bocachica's 3 run walk off HR!

Meanwhile, for Jay Witasick, 'the waiting continues.'

On Monday night, as two of his fellow wounded A's pitchers worked on rehabilitation assignments at Raley Field, Jay Witasick rested.

No wonder. Witasick threw out of the bullpen on Sunday. And Saturday. And the Wednesday before. And the day before that.

He has 11 appearances since coming to the River Cats on July 13 while on the Oakland disabled list because of tendinitis in the left ankle, an unusually long stint. Joe Kennedy, who started in the 5-4 victory over Nashville while on the A's disabled list with a sore left shoulder, and Scott Sauerbeck, who went next while working back from a strained right groin, could return to the majors within days, but there is no such stopwatch for Witasick.

In other A's news, the Big Hurt is a Comeback Player of the Year finalist.

Also, I know the A's and M's series is over, but check out this awesome poem from LL.  :D

Josh Suchon discusses impact of July trades and ranks the top 5 trade deadline acquisitions by the A's.

Ooh...The Hawaiian Punch-Out will make his second big league start tonight.  Can't wait!

GOOOOO A'S!!!

GOG #19:  A's vs. Rangers

1. Series outcome:
   
2. Rangers player to have the best series:
   
3. Runs scored by the A's:
   
4. Athletic to leave most runners on base:
   
5. Michael freakin' Young's series:  H/RBI/R:
   
6. A's infielder to have the best series:
   
7. XBH for Bradley:
   
8. The Hawaiian Punch Out --  Komine's IP/ER:
   
9. Does Loaiza pitch into the 6th?
   
10. Team to commit more errors:
    
11. Bullpen to allow more runs:
    
12. Which defense turns more DPs?
    
13. Extras in any game?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is Monday, 7:04 PM PDT.
LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #18 RESULTS:  A's @Seattle  (Link)

1. Series outcome:  A's Sweep
   
2. Ichiro's series -- H/SB/R:  1/0/1
   
3. Which M's reliever do the A's have the most success against?  Mateo
   
4. Starter to allow the fewest runs:  Zito
   
5. Run differential in the most lop-sided game:   3
   
6. HR for the A's:  3
   
7. Outcome of the Texas/LAAAA series:  2-2
   
8. Haren's IP/ER:  7IP/2ER
   
9. What are the AL West standings after Sunday's games?  A's, LAA, Tex, Sea
   
10. Better series -- Chavy or Beltre?  Beltre
    
11. Does a batter K at least 3 times in a game?  No
    
12. Melhuse gets a start?  No
    
13. Team to score more 2 out runs:  A's... by a lot
    
14. Does a player drive in 4 or more runs in a game?  If so, who?  Yes, Thomas

Scores:
ohad  13
Robb  12
Mr Athletics  13
Philip Christy  12
Noodler29  9
mkt  14
kinselofant  13
Poppy  19  (Winner!)
greekpride08  15
TurnTwo  12
WhiteElephantGuy  15
Flyin As  14
high street  14
HollywoodOz  8
SLOtown  12
gigglingone  9
AsGirl  18
athleticsINky  13
stevea  16
signmebilly  14
lurkerD  17
Jjjsixsix  3
mikeA  12
eamb  6
streetfan  4
hit it long T  10
jme  16
WaddellCanseco  2
F171615  16
peanut gallery  17
norcaldevilasu  7
FreeSeatUpgrade  15
FormerHuntsvilleStar  16
JLaff  14

The A's beat the Mariners this afternoon.  <Yawn>
In other news, the sun came out this morning.
 


Game recaps:

• A's extend mastery over Mariners  (A's website)
  
• A's are offering thanks to M's  (SF Gate)
  
• Mariners fall after Pinero falters  (M's website
  
• 53-56  (Lookout Landing)

Some A's notes from Sportsline:

• Oakland 3B Eric Chavez had a 65-game errorless streak snapped in the third when he misplayed Richie Sexson's grounder. He's made three errors this season.
  
• Kotsay's single in the second extended his hitting streak to 12 games, the longest streak by an Oakland player this season.
  
• RF Ichiro Suzuki entered Saturday hitting. 400 against Haren, but went 0-for-4 and has just two hits in his last five games.
• (Link)

Bad news for the members of the Adam Melhuse fan club:

With every Thursday off through and including Sept. 14, manager Ken Macha sees no reason to rest starting catcher Jason Kendall, who on Saturday made his 15th consecutive start behind the plate.
"The reason we are where we are right now is our pitching staff," Macha said on Saturday before the second game of a three-game series against the Mariners at Safeco Field. "And Jason's been tremendous" (Link)

Larry Davis expects Crosby's DL stint to be a short one:

Davis said that there is no reason to think that the DL stay will be a lengthy one. The move was retroactive to July 31, so Crosby can return on Aug. 15. Manager Ken Macha said that, according to Angels team orthopedist Dr. Lewis Yocum, if this were September, "he could play.''
You know what that means.  Expect to see Crosby in a few years.  <Sigh>

Also, despite what popular belief, Joe Kennedy is not dead.  He will start a rehab assignment with the Rivercats on Monday.  

Josh Suchon explains how Nick Swisher became an Athletic thanks to a rainout.

According to AL scouts and numbers, the A's are the best defensive team in the AL West:

The book Moneyball chronicled Oakland's search for undervalued assets in the game. The club settled on on-base percentage before moving to the old staple of defense. Oakland began Saturday's play with the fourth-best overall fielding percentage in the AL (.986) and with the corresponding fourth-lowest errors total at 57. Seattle was second-best in the league for both categories, but the A's win extra credit for efficiency. There is growing interest in the statistic that measures the rate of outs produced per balls put in play. Oakland could rank in the AL's top three for the category for the third consecutive year this season. Oakland began the weekend with an out rate of .683. That was second in the AL to Detroit at .692. The other West rates were Seattle at .676, the Los Angeles Angels at .674 and the Rangers at .666. The stat speaks to defense and pitching. It says that Oakland's staff allows balls to be put in play at a reasonable rate, and the defense responds.
Hmmm.  What else?  Oh yeah.  LAAAA reclaimed second place in the AL West by beating Texas this afternoon.  The two teams finish off their 4 game series tomorrow in Anaheim.  And of course, AN is going to root for... uh... both teams to lose.... only after they play 59 innings.

Meanwhile, the A's are going for a sweep tomorrow at Safeco.  
Game Preview:
Righty Joe Blanton will be looking to continue his dominance over Seattle on Sunday, when he takes on Mariners righty Gil Meche in the finale of a three-game series at Safeco Field.
Blanton, who ranks second on the team in victories, has three of his wins against the Mariners. In three starts (23 innings), he's held them to two runs on 14 hits for a 0.78 ERA and .182 team batting average.

"I don't really know what it is," Blanton said. "But they're in our division, so we see them a lot, and that always helps make you feel more comfortable."

LET'S GO OAKLAND!!!

Greetings, GOGers!  
As promised, I have included the running season totals of the GOG in this diary.  Scroll down.  And again, the screen shots of the spreadsheet were my best option.

By the way, I could use some help from the GOGers.  I need suggestions for potential GOG questions.  I've got to admit -- I'm really bored with my questions.  We all could use something new and refreshing.  Also, please feel free to make any suggestions regarding the GOG.  Anything that you guys particularly dislike?  Speak now!  :)

Moving on now.  The A's start a 3 game series in Seattle Friday night, having won 9 consecutive games against the M's.  So, needless to say, the Mariners will be seeking revenge.  Here's hoping the A's continue their dominance over their rivals from the Pacific Northwest!

GOG #18:  A's @Seattle

1. Series outcome:  
   
2. Ichiro's series -- H/SB/R:
   
3. Which M's reliever do the A's have the most success against?
   
4. Starter to allow the fewest runs:
   
5. Run differential in the most lop-sided game:    
   
6. HR for the A's:
   
7. Outcome of the Texas/LAAAA series (4 games):
   
8. Haren's IP/ER:  
   
9. What are the AL West standings after Sunday's games?  (First place thru last place)
   
10. Better series -- Chavy or Beltre?
    
11. Does a batter K at least 3 times in a game?
    
12. Melhuse gets a start?
    
13. Team to score more 2 out runs:
    
14. Does a player drive in 4 or more runs in a game?  If so, who?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is 7:04 PM PT Friday.
LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #17 Results:  A's @LAAAAAA

(Link for Poppy)

1. Series outcome:  A's win 2/3
   
2. First inning woes -- Runs allowed by the A's in the 1st:  1
   
3. Worst outing by an Anaheim starter:  Santana
   
4. A's reliever to K the most batters:  Street
   
5. How many starters pitch into the 7th?  5
   
6. Chavy heating up?  His H/HR/RBI:  1/0/0  
   
7. Total runs scored in the lowest scoring game:  4
   
8. Two solid starts in a row?  Loaiza's IP/ER:  5.1IP/2ER
   
9. Bullpen to allow fewer runs:  A's
   
10. Team to commit more errors:  Anaheim
    
11. Street or Rodriguez blow a save?  If so, who?  Nope
    
12. More XBH -- Kendall or Figgins?  Kendall
    
13. More LOB -- A's or LAAAA?  Anaheim

Scores:
AsGirl  9
Chilango  6
walk off bunt  9
jme  5
Philip Christy  8
norcaldevilasu  11
TurnTwo  6
Jjjsixsix  4
hit it long T  7
bzn5150  10
Flyin As  14  (Winner!)
athleticsINky  6
peanut gallery  11
mikeA  10
HollywoodOz  4
Mr Athletics  7
WhiteElephantGuy  6
high street  6
ohad  8
streetfan  5
Daveed  1
Noodler29  5
JLaff  5
lurkerD  9
F171615  3
OaktownPower  9
misfit toy  7

For the second consecutive game, no negative scores!  We're making progress.  ;)

SEASON TOTALS

GOG #17:  A's @LAAAAAAAA

1. Series outcome:
   
2. First inning woes -- Runs allowed by the A's in the 1st:
   
3. Worst outing by an Anaheim starter:
   
4. A's reliever to K the most batters:
   
5. How many starters pitch into the 7th?
   
6. Chavy heating up?  His H/HR/RBI:
   
7. Total runs scored in the lowest scoring game:  
   
8. Two solid starts in a row?  Loaiza's IP/ER:
   
9. Bullpen to allow fewer runs:
   
10. Team to commit more errors:
    
11. Street or Rodriguez blow a save?  If so, who?
    
12. More XBH -- Kendall or Figgins??
    
13. More LOB -- A's or LAAAA?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is 7:04 PM PT Monday.  LET'S GO A's!!!!!

GOG #16 Results:  A's vs. Blue Jays

1. Series outcome (4 games):  A's win 3/4
   
2. Best pitching match-up:  Komine vs. Halladay
   
3. How many games decided after the 7th inning?  1
   
4. H/HR/RBI for the A's cleanup hitter(s):  4H/1HR/1RBI
   
5. Name ANY pitcher who records a win:  Blanton, Downs, Zito, Street
   
6. Blue Jay with the most hits: Glaus
   
7. Thursday's attendance:  19,251
   
8. Lilly vs. his former team -- IP/ER:  5.1IP/4ER
   
9. Does Chavy bat 3rd/4th in any game?  No
   
10. Which team's starters pitch more innings?  A's
    
11. Who wins on AN Day?  A's!
    
12. Does a player hit more than 1 HR?  If so, who?  Nope
    
13. Is DJ called up by the end of the series?  No

GOG #16 Results:  (Link)
AsGirl  16
Jjjsixsix  5
ohad  10
gigglingone  8
OaktownPower  3
TurnTwo  15
mikeA  2
Flyin As  10
hit it long T  9
WhiteElephantGuy  5
streetfan  18  (Winner!)
Oaktownmagical07  13
athleticsINky  10
Poppy  4
Daveed  9
jme  10  (Impressive guess on Thursday's attendance!!!)
mkt  13
Mr Athletics  10
HollywoodOz  0
Noodler29  17
vignette17  8
walk off bunt  15
WaddellCanseco  2
bzn5150  8
lurkerD  4
peanut gallery  0
senork  2
broncobert  10
colin  2
Eric in Atlanta  11
FormerHuntsvilleStar  15
JLaff  11
misfit toy  2

PS:
Season totals will be posted with the next game!  

GOG #16:  A's vs. Blue Jays

1. Series outcome (4 games):
   
2. Best pitching match-up:
   
3. How many games decided after the 7th inning?
   
4. H/HR/RBI for the A's cleanup hitter(s):
   
5. Name ANY pitcher who records a win:  
   
6. Blue Jay with the most hits:
   
7. Thursday's attendance:*
   
8. Lilly vs. his former team -- IP/ER:
   
9. Does Chavy bat 3rd/4th in any game?
   
10. Which team's starters pitch more innings?
    
11. Who wins on AN Day?  
    
12. Does a player hit more than 1 HR?  If so, who?
    
13. Is DJ called up by the end of the series?

*Within 1,000 for full credit.

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is 7:04 PM PT Thursday.

GOG #15 RESULTS:  A's vs. Red Sox

1. Series outcome:  Boston wins 2/3
   
2. A's outfielder to have the best series:  Kotsay
   
3. Bean balls -- How many HBP in the series?  4
   
4. Athletic with the most RBI:  Thomas
   
5. Starter to record the most K's:  Haren, Zito, and Beckett (4 each)
   
6. Athletic to have the most success against Schilling:  Kendall.  Partial credit for Thomas and Kotsay.
   
7. Time of the game on Root Beer Float Day:  2:31
   
8. Second time around -- Windsor's IP/ER:  2.2IP/4ER
   
9. Longer outing -- Zito or Haren?  Haren
   
10. Do the A's score more runs off the Red Sox starters or pen?  Starters
    
11. More RBI -- Ortiz or Manny?  Manny.  <Censored>
    
12. Does a team blow a lead of 4 runs or more?  No
    
13. Team to score more first inning runs:  Boston

Bonus question -- Game time temperature:  74 degrees

Scores:
high street  2
athleticsINky  11
Jjjsixsix  15  (Runner up!)
GlorySV  6
mikeA  12
JLaff  11
HollywoodOz  6
AsGirl  10
hit it long T  10
Flyin As  16  (Winner!)
cirquegirl16  0
ohad  7
gigglingone  11
Robb  9
mkt  10
jme  5
WaddellCanseco  9
F171615  3
bzn5150  5
Eric in Atlanta  13
peanut gallery  11
lurker D  3
Poppy  13
Noodler29  4
SD Erik  7
saint  7
lerei  1
misfit toy  9
FormerHuntsvilleStar  12

No negative scores!  :)

The A's/Tigers results will be posted tonight, provided I don't die of heat exhaustion by then.  :-/  
This is just RI-DI-CU-LOUS!  The last week or so has not only been HOT, but it has been insanely HUMID as well.  Where is the f@#$ing delta breeze when you need it?!!!

<Fries to death>

<Books flight to Antarctica>

Meanwhile, here's the GOG for the Boston series:

GOG #15:  A's vs. Red Sox

1. Series outcome:
   
2. A's outfielder to have the best series:
   
3. Bean balls -- How many HBP in the series?
   
4. Athletic with the most RBI:
   
5. Starter to record the most K's:
   
6. Athletic to have the most success against Schilling:
   
7. Time of the game on Root Beer Float Day:*
   
8. Second time around -- Windsor's IP/ER:
   
9. Longer outing -- Zito or Haren?
   
10. Do the A's score more runs off the Red Sox starters or pen?
    
11. More RBI -- Ortiz or Manny?
    
12. Does a team blow a lead of 4 runs or more?
    
13. Team to score more first inning runs:

BONUS QUESTION:
Guess the gametime temperature on Wednesday.  (Within 2 degrees F for full credit)

*Within 10 minutes for full credit.

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-7).  Up to 4 points for question #8 (2 points for each part).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is 7:04 PM PT Monday.

GOG #14 RESULTS: A?s @Detroit

1. Series outcome (Please specify exactly): Tigers win 2/3
2. Best outing by a Tigers starter: Verlander
3. A?s reliever to pitch most innings: Gaudin and Saarloos (3IP each)
4. Total HR in the series: 6
5. How many quality starts for the A?s? Zero. Ouch.
6. Swisher?s H/RBI/K: 3H/0RBI/4K
7. Athletic to score the most runs: Kendall (4)
8. 2nd place team in the AL West after Sunday?s games: Texas
9. Better series -- Crosby or Chavy? No points.
10. Big Hurt hits a HR? No
11. Better outing -- Haren or Blanton? Haren.*
12. Is there a scoreless game going into the 6th? No
13. Who wins on Sunday? (Extra credit for getting the score right!) 8-4 Detroit

*Note on question #11:
I know, you all are wondering how Haren had the ?better outing?. Since both pitchers got lit up, I used this scoring formula (courtesy of Jjjsixsix) to determine the answer to this particular question. So, here goes: Start with 50 points. Add 1 point for each out recorded, (3 points per inning). Add 2 points for each inning completed after the 4th. Add 1 point for each strikeout. Subtract 2 points for each hit allowed. Subtract 4 points for each earned run allowed. Subtract 2 points for each unearned run allowed. Subtract 1 point for each walk. So, using that scoring system, Haren = 40 points, Blanton = 29 points. :-/

Scores:
AsGirl 8
hit it long T 9
vignette17 3
saint 12
norcaldevilasu 4
TurnTwo 2
athleticsINky 3
Mr. Athletics 4
Jjjsixsix 13
Flyin As 4
jacobo2u 3
greekpride08 8
mikeA 12
lurkerD 1
PDXAthleticsfan 4
gigglingone 5
ohad 3
harenshair 1
yeeeeeaaaahhhh 6
Daveed 12
SanTropez 6
arch 3
ucla kid 4
jme 2
HollywoodOz 7
mkt 5
OaktownPower 12
Eric in Atlanta 11
WaddellCanseco 12
bzn5150 0
eamb 0
peanut gallery 12
high street 3
JLaff 3
lerei 1
Noodler29 3
F171615 3
littleA 10
FreeSeatUpgrade 2

Poll

Best place to be right now:

0 votes | Poll has closed

GOG #14:  A's @Detroit

1. Series outcome (Please specify exactly):
   
2. Best outing by a Tigers starter:
   
3. A's reliever to pitch most innings:
   
4. Total HR in the series:
   
5. How many quality starts for the A's?
   
6. Swisher's H/RBI/K:
   
7. Athletic to score the most runs:
   
8. 2nd place team in the AL West after Sunday's games:  (Please name only ONE team)
   
9. Better series -- Crosby or Chavy?
   
10. Big Hurt hits a HR?
    
11. Better outing -- Haren or Blanton?
    
12. Is there a scoreless game going into the 6th?
    
13. Who wins on Sunday?  (Extra credit for getting the score right!)

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-8).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is 4:04 PM PT Friday.

GOG #13 Results:

1. Series outcome (Please specify):  A's win 2/3
   
2. Welcome to the big leagues -- Windsor's IP/ER:  5IP/1ER
   
3. Worst outing by an O's starter:  Benson
   
4. Miggy's H/HR/RBI:  3H/0HR/2RBI
   
5. A's HR in the series:  5
   
6. Batter to K the most times:  Chavy
   
7. Starts for Chavy:  3
   
8. IP by the A's pen:  8.2
   
9. Team to score more runs after the 6th inning:  O's
   
10. Better series -- Kotsay or Ramon?  Both were horrible.  No points.
    
11. Any CG's?  Nope
    
12. More LOB -- A's or O's?  O's
    
13. Team with more XBH:  A's

Scores:
arch 1
Jjjsixsix  6
Mr. Athletics  12  (Winner!)
high street  6
FormerHuntsvilleStar  10
Flyin As  7
mikeA  2
AsGirl  6
scutaroknowstheway  7
ucla kid  5
Daveed  8
Oaktownmagical07  6
WadellCanseco  -1
hit it long T  9
eamb  6
SanTropez  6
senork  8
norcaldevilasu  4
HollywoodOz  4
yeeeeeaaaahhhh  3
greekpride08  0
vignette17  5
gigglingone  2
streetfan  7
OaktownPower  9
Noodler29  1
Kyli  7
F171615  7
harenshair  6
gdub171  4
baseballnut020  7
Eric in Atlanta  10
Poppy  8
bzn5150  7
Chilango  7
room812  1
cirquegirl 16  2
TurnTwo  5
lurkerD  -1
JLaff  -2
misfit toy  6
FreeSeatUpgrade  7
colin  4
jme  10

Click here to get different people's take on why the chicken crossed the road.  (Link courtesy of my sister)
I thought it was hilarious!  :)

Anyway, the A's beat the O's last night to even the series at 1-1.  



Game recaps:

• A's edge past Orioles  (A's website)
  
• Crosby, Ellis get long-awaited HRs.  (SF Chronicle)
  
• A's overcome rain, Orioles for victory  (SJ Mercury News)

Some A's tidbits:

With a HR last night, MaEl is now the leading HR hitter from South Dakota!  We've been counting down since he hit his first career HR!  Congrats MaEl!

``I was disappointed that they didn't stop the game and give me a plaque,'' Ellis joked. ``I've already gotten a couple of messages, so they must have mentioned it on TV. It's neat. There are not a lot of us from South Dakota.''

Added Crosby, ``Maybe they'll name a street after him. I've got some ammo on him. I'm going to get on him. There are only two baseball players from South Dakota besides him.''

 (Source)

GNGG has competition.  And it is Mr. Anna Benson.  Apparently Barry Zito has a crush on Mr. Benson.  Zito also confesses in this article that Benson is the reason he wears #75.

Zito wears No. 75 because of Benson.
"He wore 34 at Clemson -- still does, I think -- so I wore 34 in the Cape and at USC, and I wanted to wear it when I came up to the A's. But it was already taken, so I started playing with the number a little bit to find something close."

His first choice was 12, because it's three multiplied by four. That was taken, too, though, so he went with 75 -- seven plus five.

"I think," Zito said with a smile, "that's when my reputation for being a little weird early in my career might have started."

Injury news:

Chavy:

In his first game since the All-Star break, third baseman Eric Chavez went 0 for 2 with two walks Monday. He said it appears the tendinitis in his forearms will be an issue for some time to come.

``I'm going to go and just play,'' he said. ``That's all there really is left to do. What I have is what I have.''

Said Macha, ``It looked like he hadn't had an at-bat in eight days. He swung at some balls out of the strike zone. He looked rusty.''

Chavez went 0 for 3 with two strikeouts Tuesday.

 <Sigh>

Joe Kennedy:

Lefty Joe Kennedy played some catch Monday and was scheduled for another session Tuesday. A team source said Kennedy, out since May 11 with arm trouble, might not be back for another month.  (From the above Zito/Benson link)

Also, Windsor's next start will be against the Red Sox at the Coliseum.  By my calculations, he will be the starter on AN Day.  

Jason Windsor, who made his big-league debut Monday and gave up three runs (one earned) over five innings, probably won't make another start until next Tuesday. The A's have Thursday off and want to keep their other four rotation regulars on turn.  (Source:  Same as above)

Here is the preview of the much-anticipated Zito vs. Benson matchup:

vs.

OAK: LHP Barry Zito (9-6, 3.30 ERA)
Zito has a career 3.07 ERA after the All-Star break; his career ERA before the break is 3.83.

BAL: RHP Kris Benson (9-8, 4.59 ERA)
Benson has a 3.17 ERA at home this season. It's 5.95 on the road.

First pitch is at 9:35 AM PT.   GOOOOOO A's!!!

GOG #13:  A's @Baltimore

1. Series outcome (Please specify):
   
2. Welcome to the big leagues -- Windsor's IP/ER:
   
3. Worst outing by an O's starter:
   
4. Miggy's H/HR/RBI:
   
5. A's HR in the series:
   
6. Batter to K the most times:
   
7. Starts for Chavy:
   
8. IP by the A's pen:
   
9. Team to score more runs after the 6th inning:
   
10. Better series -- Kotsay or Ramon?
    
11. Any CG's?  
    
12. More LOB -- A's or O's?
    
13. Team with more XBH:

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-8).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is 4:04 PM (Pacific) Monday.

GOG #12 RESULTS:

1. Series outcome (4 games):  A's win 3/4
   
2. Total HR for Ortiz and Manny:  1
   
3. Best outing by an A's starter:  Cupcakes
   
4. Bradley's back (?) -- Milton's GP/H/RBI:  2GP/5H/3RBI
   
5. Total runs scored in the highest scoring game:  18
   
6. Huston's IP/Sv:  1.2/0
   
7. Errors by EACH team:  A's 6, Sox 3
   
8. Athletic with the most hits:  Kotsay
   
9. Does a team blow a 9th inning lead?  Nope
   
10. Extras in any game?  Yes
    
11. Bullpen to pitch more innings:  Boston
    
12. Does a player have a multi-HR game?  No
    
13. Are the A's in first place at the end of the series?  Heck yeah!

Scores:
AsGirl  2
bzn5150  0
hillofbeanes  0
JLaff  0
Jjjsixsix  2
Noodler29  -3
mikeA  4
harenshair  6
TurnTwo  3
eamb  -3
norcaldevilasu  1
WaddellCanseco  2
Daveed  -4
ucla kid  -4
oaklandbbfan  -3
Poppy  -1
gigglingone  3
alaska A  5
Flyin As  5
Robb  6
Mr. Athletics  0
HollywoodOz  0
mkt  -4
rungood  0
Oaktownmagical07  2
cirquegirl 14  0
arch  -1
athleticsINky  -3
FreeSeatUpgrade  -1
scutaroknowstheway  11 (Winner!)
baseballnut020  8
F171615  8
streetfan  7
OaktownPower  -1
colin  7
misfit toy  3
hit it long T  2
FormerHuntsvilleStar  1

Very low scoring GOG.  A lot of negative scores.  :-/
By the way, I was seriously tempted to give extra credit to the handful of people who said the A's will be in first place at the end of the series.  :)

I can't wait until the All Star Break is over.
However, the thought of a 10 game road trip around the corner, starting with a four game series in Boston, isn't exactly thrilling.  But hey, that's why we play the games, right?  :)
Here's hoping for a better and healthier second half for our team!  

Before I get to the latest GOG, I would like to thank Jjjsixsix for making a GOG spreadsheet for me which has made my life so much easier!  I'm not a fan of numbers or spreadsheets, but keeping the GOG scores is actually FUN now!  It's organized, easy, and fun!  So, a big thank you to Jjjsixsix for not only making the spreadsheet, but also for answering the billion questions I had about it.

Scroll down for the first half GOG stats.  The screen shots were my best option.  But if you guys think it's too big, I could just post the links in future.

GOG #12:  A's @Boston

1. Series outcome (4 games):
   
2. Total HR for Ortiz and Manny:
   
3. Best outing by an A's starter:
   
4. Bradley's back (?) -- Milton's GP/H/RBI:
   
5. Total runs scored in the highest scoring game:
   
6. Huston's IP/Sv:
   
7. Errors by EACH team:  
   
8. Athletic with the most hits:
   
9. Does a team blow a 9th inning lead?
   
10. Extras in any game?
    
11. Bullpen to pitch more innings:
    
12. Does a player have a multi-HR game?
    
13. Are the A's in first place at the end of the series?

Please note:  If I ask you to name a player, please name only ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give full credit.

Scoring reminder:  Up to 3 points for open-ended questions (#1-8).  In questions 9-13, +1 for a correct answer and -1 for an incorrect answer.

Deadline is 4:04 PM (Pacific) Thursday.

GOG #11 RESULTS:

1. Series outcome (Reminder:  4 game series):  Anaheim wins 3/4
   
2. <Charges mound> -- Kendall vs. Lacky (H/HBP/K):  0/0/1
   
3. Starts for Melhuse:  1
   
4. A's starter to allow most BB:  Loaiza and Blanton (3 each)
   
5. Angels position player to hurt the A's most:  Ugh.  I'm going with Figgins
   
6. Athletic with most RBI:  Frank Thomas
   
7. Unearned runs scored by A's:  3
   
8. Jeff... err... Jered Weaver's line -- IP/ER:  7IP/0ER
   
9. Better series -- Swish or DJ?  Swish, I guess
   
10. Does a player hit more than 1 HR?  If so, who?  Yes, Rivera
    
11. Any game decided by 4 runs or more?  Which one?  None
    
12. Does K-Rod blow a save?  No
    
13. Any walk off wins?  Yes

Scores:
Mr. Athletics  12
gigglingone  13
high street  9
jlaff  9
Jjjsixsix  9
ohad  8
Poppy  4
Noodler29  10
HollywoodOz  6
AsGirl  5
Rickeyfan  5
ucla kid  4
WaddellCanseco  8
Eric in Atlanta  11
Daveed  11
SanTropez  11
senork  5
harenshair  9
greekpride08  9
mkt  5
vignette17  11
streetfan  19 (Winner!)
F171615  10
Oaktownmagical07  0
signmebilly  8
eamb  12
norcaldevilasu  16
TurnTwo  11
PDXAthleticsfan  7
lurkerD  11
FreeSeatUpgrade  8
OakTownPower  12
yeswecan  10
littleA  9
cirquegirl14  9
lerei  11
Robb  9
arch  11
RevHaloFan  5
misfit toy  12

FIRST HALF STATS:

GOG #11:  The the Angels Angels of Anaheim

1. Series outcome (Reminder:  4 game series):  
   
2. <Charges mound> -- Kendall vs. Lacky (H/HBP/K):
   
3. Starts for Melhuse:
   
4. A's starter to allow most BB:  
   
5. Angels position player to hurt the A's most:
   
6. Athletic with most RBI:
   
7. Unearned runs scored by A's:
   
8. Jeff... err... Jered Weaver's line -- IP/ER:
   
9. Better series -- Swish or DJ?
   
10. Does a player hit more than 1 HR?  If so, who?
    
11. Any game decided by 4 runs or more?  Which one?
    
12. Does K-Rod blow a save?
    
13. Any walk off wins?

By the way, if I ask you to name a player (questions 5, 6, 7, 10), please just name ONE player.  Otherwise, I won't be able to give you full credit.

Scoring reminder:  
Up to three points for questions 1-8.
+1 or -1 for #9-13.

Deadline is 7:04 PM (Pacific) on Thursday.

GOG #10 RESULTS:

1. Series outcome (Please specify exactly): A?s win 2/3
2. The Gambler loves the Coliseum -- Rogers' IP/ER: 5.2 IP/4ER
3. How many games decided after the 7th inning? 1
4. Wednesday?s attendance: 22,210
5. IP by the A?s pen: 9.2
6. How many 1 run games? 1
7. Total errors in the series: 1
8. Total hits for the A?s cleanup hitter(s): 2
9. Which team hits for a better average with RISP? Tigers
10. Offensive offense -- Do the A?s score 6 runs or more in a game? No
11. Better outing -- Verlander or Cupcakes? Verlander
12. Does a starter pitch into the 8th? If so, who? None
13. Does a batter K at least 3 times in a game? Yes

Scores:
AsGirl 14
ohad 5
Alisa 9
HollywoodOz 11
SanTropez 6
jlaff 6
gigglingone 14
Robb 0
high street 12
SLOtown 3
signmebilly 5
ucla kid 4
GlorySV 4
senork 5
TurnTwo 2
Mr. Athletics 3
Oaktownmagical07 7
Daveed 12
OaktownPower 9
norcaldevilasu 8
Eric in Atlanta 10
Chilango 7
mkt 12
lurkerD 3
Poppy 9
littleA 9
colin 7
RickeyFan 4
F171615 7
FreeSeatUpgrade 2
streetfan 8
misfit toy 11

I'll post the results of the Arizona series tonight.  I'm not exactly thrilled about looking at the box scores of the first two games of that series.   :-/

Update [2006-7-2 23:7:4 by AsGirl]:Results added!

Moving on now...

The A's welcome the Detroit Tigers to town tomorrow -- the team with the best record in baseball.

GOG #10: Motor City Kitties

1. Series outcome (Please specify exactly):
   
2. The Gambler loves the Coliseum -- Rogers' IP/ER:
   
3. How many games decided after the 7th inning?
   
4. Wednesday's attendance:
   
5. IP by the A's pen:
   
6. How many 1 run games?
   
7. Total errors in the series:
   
8. Total hits for the A's cleanup hitter(s):
   
9. Which team hits for a better average with RISP?
   
10. Offensive offense -- Do the A's score 6 runs or more in a game?
    
11. Better outing -- Verlander or Cupcakes?  
    
12. Does a starter pitch into the 8th?  If so, who?
    
13. Does a batter K at least 3 times in a game?

Deadline is 7:04 PM (Pacific) on Monday.

RESULTS OF THE ARIZONA SERIES:

1. Series outcome (Please specify exactly): Arizone sweeps
   
2. We get the DH back!  Big Hurt's H/HR/RBI: 2H/2HR/3RBI
   
3. How many HR do the A's hit? 2
   
4. Captain Kirk's IP/ER: 5.1IP/3ER
   
5. Byrnes returns to Oakland - H/RBI/K: 3H/1RBI/1K
   
6. Total wild pitches: 1
   
7. D'back to reach base most times via H and BB: Gonzalez (9)
   
8. Athletic with most XBH: Frank Thomas (2)
   
9. Pitching staff to allow more BB: A's
   
10. Team to score more unearned runs: Arizona
    
11. More LOB - A's or D'backs? Arizona
    
12. Bullpen with more K's: A's

SCORES
Roscoe Parish 10 (Winner!)
Robb -1
HollywoodOz 0
Jjjsixsix 5
PDXAthleticsfan 0
Poppy 3
cirquegirl 14 6
mkt 6
Chilango 3
ucla kid -1
doublehustle22 1
FreeSeatUpgrade 5
SanTropez 1
arch 7
AsGirl 3
signmebilly 0
Mr. Athletics 5
harenshair -1
ohad 3
cthulhu 3
norcaldevilasu 5
peanut gallery 1
TurnTwo 2
colin 2
jlaff 1
lurkerD 5
gigglingone 1
Khmi 7
misfit toy 8
high street 7

As you can see, the GOG scores in this series sucked -- just like the A's. :(