We went to a sparsely populated Giants game last nite. The parking lots were so empty that they charged a desperation price of $10 (versus $60+ for a game vs Dodgers). It pays to see the Giants play the Nationals if what you want is to see your team beat the opposition into the ground with ball after ball after ball. Not to take anything away from Randy Johnson, who had a great game going (he only gave up a couple of homers and put up tons of K's). But the feeling of invincibility crept into the minds of Giants fans when Nat's pitcher, Cabrera, inexplicably lost his strike zone after 2 outs. He walked Randy, then nearly the entire Giants rotation. I don't think I've ever seen Randy touch home plate, and he did it with walks. A memorable night for the Big Unit.
We also attended the A's vs Jay's game on Sunday and watched the hittingest team in baseball make fools of my lowly team. It was nice to see Scutaro finally earning a starting position (short stop) with the Jays, a lead-off spot in the rotation, and getting hits. It was sad that the A's never recognized his skills as a starter, the best clutch hitter they've had, AND a excellent utility player. He continues to be my favorite active player and he should be in A's uniform. The best performance by an A during this game was by starting pitcher Dallas Braden. He was hit in his pitching hand by Vernon Wells' line drive in the first inning and crumpled to the mound. It took a while for him to stand back up and the amazing thing was that he chose to remain in the game to pitch 5 innings. His hand swelled up like a catcher's mitt but he soldiered on. Wow.
