mercurynews--2020-09-26--A’s unable to find clutch hit in game one loss to Mariners

OAKLAND — The A ’ s for the second straight game failed to come up with any run-scoring base hits in the early-to-middle innings against the Seattle Mariners .
This time , though , it came back to bite them .
The A ’ s , after leaving five runners on base in the first seven innings , gave up four runs in the eighth inning to the Mariners in what became a 5-1 loss at the Coliseum , the first game of a doubleheader .
The second game will start later Saturday afternoon .
Closer Liam Hendriks allowed two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , two earned , in 1 1/3 innings of work .
His next outing will likely come next week when the A ’ s start the playoffs .
Mike Minor , making one last case to be a part of the postseason roster , struck out seven and allowed one run over five-plus innings for the A ’ s .
Minor was charged with a run in the sixth inning as a single to left by J.P. Crawford was bobbled by Mark Canha , as Braden Bishop scored from second base .
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us on Flipboard .
The A ’ s first run came in the fourth inning as Khris Davis ’ sacrifice fly scored Canha from third base .
Otherwise , for the first six innings , the A ’ s were 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position .
They finished the game 1-for-11 and left six runners on base .
Friday , the A ’ s left a total of nine runners on base before the 10th inning when Canha gave Oakland a 3-1 win with a walk-off two-run homer .
Saturday , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ third with no outs in the sixth , as Tommy La Stella led off the inning with a triple to right .
La Stella was shaken up on the play , as the relay throw bounced off his head as he slid into third .
La Stella , who was OK after the game , manager Bob Melvin said , was replaced by Tony Kemp , who remained at third as Ramón Laureano and Robbie Grossman both struck out and Matt Olson popped out .
Coming into Saturday , the A ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worse than second in the AL if they beat the Mariners in both ends of their doubleheader .
The A ’ s could also take second place if they win one game Saturday and the Minnesota Twins lose to the Cincinnati Reds .
That game starts at 4:10 p.m. ( PT ) at Target Field in Minneapolis .
The A ’ s entered Saturday with the American League ’ s second best record at 35-22 .
The Tampa Bay Rays ( 38-20 ) can clinch the No .
1 seed with either a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A ’ s loss .
American League teams have to set their 28-player roster for the first round of the playoffs by Tuesday morning .
Whether Minor earns a start in the postseason is unclear .
It would appear the A ’ s would be set for the best-of-three first round , with Sean Manaea , Mike Fiers , Jesus Luzardo and Chris Bassitt all available .
But Minor could be someone manager Bob Melvin uses in the second round in a best-of-five series , if the A ’ s advance that far @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rounds , the A ’ s may need to use a fifth starter if they hope to keep their other starters on regular rest .
If it ’ s not Minor , it would likely be Frankie Montas , who has had his own struggles of late .
“ I ’ m just kind of here .
Whatever they need to me to do , ” Minor said when asked about what his duties could be going forward .
“ They haven ’ t talked to me about a role or anything .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot better than me , so , I ’ m assuming that those guys are going to get most of the work .
If they need me for anything , I ’ ll be there.
” Perhaps another option for Melvin is to use Minor out of the bullpen , maybe in long relief if that becomes necessary .
In 2017 , two years after he had labrum surgery , Minor was used as a reliever by the Kansas City Royals .
He appeared in 65 games for the Royals as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ERA .
Minor said he ’ d be ready for anything .
“ I think we have a lot of quality guys out there already , ” Minor said of the A ’ s bullpen .
“ But if they need me to do something , step in do whatever , then yeah.
” Minor has started just one postseason game in his career , but it was a dandy .
• How the Oakland A ’ s can clinch the American League ’ s No .
2 seed today • Liam Hendriks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ playoffs is “ playing for Game 2 ” • Why the A ’ s strong bullpen could be biggest advantage in postseason • A ’ s lose series to Dodgers , but an unexpected move tells more about the postseason Pitching for Atlanta in 2013 , Minor started Game 2 of the National League Division Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers and allowed just one earned run in 6 1/3 innings .
He also allowed eight hits and struck out five , outdueling Zack Greinke in what became a 4-3 Braves win .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a 5.92 ERA in 11 appearances .
In his first four games with the A ’ s , Minor was 1-1 with a 6.61 ERA .
HENDRIKS NOTE : Prior to the three runs he allowed in the eighth inning , Hendriks had allowed only three runs all season in his first 25.0 innings.He took the loss and is 3-1 .
Former Athletic Kendall Graveman got the win , his first of the season , and is 1-3 .

OAKLAND — The A’s for the second straight game failed to come up with any run-scoring base hits in the early-to-middle innings against the Seattle Mariners.
This time, though, it came back to bite them.
The A’s, after leaving five runners on base in the first seven innings, gave up four runs in the eighth inning to the Mariners in what became a 5-1 loss at the Coliseum, the first game of a doubleheader. The second game will start later Saturday afternoon.
Closer Liam Hendriks allowed two hits and was charged with three runs, two earned, in 1 1/3 innings of work. His next outing will likely come next week when the A’s start the playoffs.
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 26: Liam Hendriks #16 of the Oakland Athletics is taken out of the game by manager Bob Melvin after he gave up two runs to the Seattle Mariners in the eighth inning of game one of their double header at RingCentral Coliseum on September 26, 2020 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 26: Khris Davis #2 of the Oakland Athletics hits a sacrifice fly that scored a run against the Seattle Mariners in the fourth inning of game one of their double header at RingCentral Coliseum on September 26, 2020 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 26: Mike Minor #23 of the Oakland Athletics pitches against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning of game one of their double header at RingCentral Coliseum on September 26, 2020 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 26: Khris Davis #2 of the Oakland Athletics hits a sacrifice fly that scored a run against the Seattle Mariners in the fourth inning of game one of their double header at RingCentral Coliseum on September 26, 2020 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 26: Mark Canha #20 of the Oakland Athletics runs home to score as Stephen Piscotty #25 raises hands in the foreground in the fourth inning of their game against the Seattle Mariners in game one of their double header at RingCentral Coliseum on September 26, 2020 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 26: J.P. Crawford (right) #3 of the Seattle Mariners almost collides with Kyle Seager #15 as he catches a ball hit by Jake Lamb #4 of the Oakland Athletics in the fifth of game one of their double header at RingCentral Coliseum on September 26, 2020 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Oakland Athletics' Mark Canha (20) slides safely into third as Seattle Mariners' Kyle Seager applies the tag during the first inning of the first baseball game of a doubleheader in Oakland, Calif., Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Jed Jacobsohn)
Mike Minor, making one last case to be a part of the postseason roster, struck out seven and allowed one run over five-plus innings for the A’s. Minor was charged with a run in the sixth inning as a single to left by J.P. Crawford was bobbled by Mark Canha, as Braden Bishop scored from second base.
For complete Oakland A’s coverage follow us on Flipboard.
The A’s first run came in the fourth inning as Khris Davis’ sacrifice fly scored Canha from third base. Otherwise, for the first six innings, the A’s were 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position. They finished the game 1-for-11 and left six runners on base.
Friday, the A’s left a total of nine runners on base before the 10th inning when Canha gave Oakland a 3-1 win with a walk-off two-run homer.
Saturday, the A’s stranded a runner on third with no outs in the sixth, as Tommy La Stella led off the inning with a triple to right. La Stella was shaken up on the play, as the relay throw bounced off his head as he slid into third.
La Stella, who was OK after the game, manager Bob Melvin said, was replaced by Tony Kemp, who remained at third as Ramón Laureano and Robbie Grossman both struck out and Matt Olson popped out.
Coming into Saturday, the A’s knew they would finish the season no worse than second in the AL if they beat the Mariners in both ends of their doubleheader. The A’s could also take second place if they win one game Saturday and the Minnesota Twins lose to the Cincinnati Reds. That game starts at 4:10 p.m. (PT) at Target Field in Minneapolis.
The A’s entered Saturday with the American League’s second best record at 35-22. The Tampa Bay Rays (38-20) can clinch the No. 1 seed with either a win over Philadelphia today or one more A’s loss.
American League teams have to set their 28-player roster for the first round of the playoffs by Tuesday morning. Whether Minor earns a start in the postseason is unclear.
It would appear the A’s would be set for the best-of-three first round, with Sean Manaea, Mike Fiers, Jesus Luzardo and Chris Bassitt all available. But Minor could be someone manager Bob Melvin uses in the second round in a best-of-five series, if the A’s advance that far.
With no days off between playoff rounds, the A’s may need to use a fifth starter if they hope to keep their other starters on regular rest. If it’s not Minor, it would likely be Frankie Montas, who has had his own struggles of late.
“I’m just kind of here. Whatever they need to me to do,” Minor said when asked about what his duties could be going forward. “They haven’t talked to me about a role or anything. I know the other guys are throwing a lot better than me, so, I’m assuming that those guys are going to get most of the work. If they need me for anything, I’ll be there.”
Perhaps another option for Melvin is to use Minor out of the bullpen, maybe in long relief if that becomes necessary. In 2017, two years after he had labrum surgery, Minor was used as a reliever by the Kansas City Royals. He appeared in 65 games for the Royals as a reliever and went 6-6 with a 2.55 ERA.
Minor said he’d be ready for anything.
“I think we have a lot of quality guys out there already,” Minor said of the A’s bullpen. “But if they need me to do something, step in do whatever, then yeah.”
Minor has started just one postseason game in his career, but it was a dandy.
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A’s suffer historic ninth-inning collapse while getting swept in Washington Oakland Athletics | A’s fall again as Nationals win on Ruiz’s walkoff home run Pitching for Atlanta in 2013, Minor started Game 2 of the National League Division Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers and allowed just one earned run in 6 1/3 innings. He also allowed eight hits and struck out five, outdueling Zack Greinke in what became a 4-3 Braves win.
Coming into Saturday, Minor was 1-6 with a 5.92 ERA in 11 appearances. In his first four games with the A’s, Minor was 1-1 with a 6.61 ERA.
HENDRIKS NOTE: Prior to the three runs he allowed in the eighth inning, Hendriks had allowed only three runs all season in his first 25.0 innings.He took the loss and is 3-1. Former Athletic Kendall Graveman got the win, his first of the season, and is 1-3.


mercurynews--2020-09-26--‘We want it to feel like home:’ Sisters open Black-owned coffee shop in San Jose

SAN JOSE — On South First Street , Nirvana Soul is already an oasis .
Starting before 9 a.m. Saturday , a crowd of more than 70 people trickled down the road on foot , bicycle and roller skates , stretching all the way from the new coffee shop ’ s pink sign to the California Theatre .
Co-owner Be ’ Anka Ashaolu buzzed up and down the line , handing out water bottles , while her sister and co-owner Jeronica Macey worked the coffee counter inside .
Just a few minutes into the Black and women-owned coffee shop ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a ribbon-cutting and enormous cheers from the caffeine-hungry crowd — the atmosphere was as close to a full-on celebration as the pandemic allows .
CLICK HERE if you are having a problem viewing the photos on a mobile device “ I ’ m feeling great , ” said Ashaolu , gesturing toward the joyful queue .
“ I ’ m just looking around and there are all these people — it ’ s beyond what I expected .
It ’ s insane.
” Nirvana Soul ’ s opening marks the culmination of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scheming between Ashaolu and Macey — and even though the pandemic has toppled businesses across the Bay Area like dominoes , the sisters are determined to make it work .
They grew up in both East and South San Jose with longtime ties to the city ; their grandmother lived in the same Eastside home for decades until her death .
Over the years , the duo bounced between different career paths and cities — Macey , 35 , as a barista and Ashaolu , 34 , as a professional marketer — but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heart of their hometown remained a constant .
When they finally decided to take the plunge , the sisters hosted their business pitch party at Caffe Frascati , a beloved live music and open mic spot off of San Carlos Street — and just a week later , they learned that the owners were looking to sell in a stunning moment of serendipity .
They eventually closed on the deal after months of negotiation , and their loan came through just after the pandemic hit .
Still , the sisters never considered backing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ employees will have their temperatures taken each morning , an idea they got from Academic Coffee a few blocks away , and abide by a strict mask and cleaning policy .
“ We ’ ve always said the difference between people who succeed and people who don ’ t is not giving up , ” Ashaolu .
“ We ’ d rather fail spectacularly than not try .
We ’ re just going for it.
” With gatherings on hold , the specialty tea , coffee , waffles and bakery The French Spot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attraction .
But when things ease up , the sisters plan to host open mics and live music .
The sisters are also acutely aware of the dearth of Black-owned businesses in the South Bay and San Jose in particular , where just about 3 % of the city ’ s million residents are Black .
Ashaolu wants the space to give Black residents a feeling of ownership , starting with the physical space — which is dotted with paintings and murals from local South Bay Black and brown artists .
Last week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was his very first time showing work in San Jose , Ashaolu said .
“ Just hearing that alone was amazing — we want this to feel like home , ” she said .
“ We ’ ve gotten a ton of messages from people of color saying , ‘ This means so much to me that you ’ re doing this .
San Jose just doesn ’ t have anything like this , I feel so alone here . '
” That message resonated with city residents who showed up Saturday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gooch , 35 , who lives downtown , first learned about Nirvana Soul ’ s opening online and arrived early to get his usual black coffee with two shots of espresso .
“ It ’ s beautiful to see a new Black-owned business in downtown San Jose , ” Gooch said .
“ I just love what they ’ ve been pushing , and that they ’ re giving opportunities to local artists and really showing love for the community.
” Ashaolu reflected that appreciation straight back onto the new customers .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said .
“ I mean , we ’ re just so , so grateful .
”

SAN JOSE — On South First Street, Nirvana Soul is already an oasis.
Starting before 9 a.m. Saturday, a crowd of more than 70 people trickled down the road on foot, bicycle and roller skates, stretching all the way from the new coffee shop’s pink sign to the California Theatre. Co-owner Be’Anka Ashaolu buzzed up and down the line, handing out water bottles, while her sister and co-owner Jeronica Macey worked the coffee counter inside.
Just a few minutes into the Black and women-owned coffee shop’s first day of business — punctuated with a ribbon-cutting and enormous cheers from the caffeine-hungry crowd — the atmosphere was as close to a full-on celebration as the pandemic allows.
SAN JOSE, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: Customers are lined down the block to get into Nirvana Soul in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. Even as other small businesses close down, San Jose natives and sisters Be'Anka Ashaolu and Jeronica Macey are opening up a new coffee and tea shop. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group)
SAN JOSE, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: Jeronica Macey prepares an espresso drink at Nirvana Soul in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. Even as other small businesses close down, San Jose natives and sisters Be'Anka Ashaolu and Jeronica Macey are opening up a new coffee and tea shop. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group)
SAN JOSE, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: Illiana Calderon prepares an espresso drink at Nirvana Soul in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. Even as other small businesses close down, San Jose natives and sisters Be'Anka Ashaolu and Jeronica Macey are opening up a new coffee and tea shop. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group)
SAN JOSE, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: Customers are lined down the block to get into Nirvana Soul in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. Even as other small businesses close down, San Jose natives and sisters Be'Anka Ashaolu and Jeronica Macey are opening up a new coffee and tea shop. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group)
SAN JOSE, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: Illiana Calderon prepares an espresso drink at Nirvana Soul in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. Even as other small businesses close down, San Jose natives and sisters Be'Anka Ashaolu and Jeronica Macey are opening up a new coffee and tea shop. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group)
SAN JOSE, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: Customers line up to get into Nirvana Soul in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. Even as other small businesses close down, San Jose natives and sisters Be'Anka Ashaolu and Jeronica Macey are opening up a new coffee and tea shop. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group)
SAN JOSE, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: Jeronica Macey prepares an espresso drink at Nirvana Soul in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. Even as other small businesses close down, San Jose natives and sisters Be'Anka Ashaolu and Jeronica Macey are opening up a new coffee and tea shop. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group)
SAN JOSE, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: Nirvana Soul opened for business in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. Even as other small businesses close down, San Jose natives and sisters Be'Anka Ashaolu and Jeronica Macey are opening up a new coffee and tea shop. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group)
SAN JOSE, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: Jeronica Macey prepares an espresso drink at Nirvana Soul in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. Even as other small businesses close down, San Jose natives and sisters Be'Anka Ashaolu and Jeronica Macey are opening up a new coffee and tea shop. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group)
SAN JOSE, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: Customers are lined down the block to get into Nirvana Soul in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. Even as other small businesses close down, San Jose natives and sisters Be'Anka Ashaolu and Jeronica Macey are opening up a new coffee and tea shop. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group)
SAN JOSE, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: Nirvana Soul opened for business in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. Even as other small businesses close down, San Jose natives and sisters Be'Anka Ashaolu and Jeronica Macey are opening up a new coffee and tea shop. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group)
SAN JOSE, CA - SEPTEMBER 26: Customers are lined down the block to get into Nirvana Soul in San Jose, Calif., on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. Even as other small businesses close down, San Jose natives and sisters Be'Anka Ashaolu and Jeronica Macey are opening up a new coffee and tea shop. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group)
CLICK HERE if you are having a problem viewing the photos on a mobile device
“I’m feeling great,” said Ashaolu, gesturing toward the joyful queue. “I’m just looking around and there are all these people — it’s beyond what I expected. It’s insane.”
Nirvana Soul’s opening marks the culmination of more than 10 years of dreaming and scheming between Ashaolu and Macey — and even though the pandemic has toppled businesses across the Bay Area like dominoes, the sisters are determined to make it work.
They grew up in both East and South San Jose with longtime ties to the city; their grandmother lived in the same Eastside home for decades until her death. Over the years, the duo bounced between different career paths and cities — Macey, 35, as a barista and Ashaolu, 34, as a professional marketer — but opening a coffee shop together in the heart of their hometown remained a constant.
When they finally decided to take the plunge, the sisters hosted their business pitch party at Caffe Frascati, a beloved live music and open mic spot off of San Carlos Street — and just a week later, they learned that the owners were looking to sell in a stunning moment of serendipity. They eventually closed on the deal after months of negotiation, and their loan came through just after the pandemic hit.
Still, the sisters never considered backing out. The shop’s three employees will have their temperatures taken each morning, an idea they got from Academic Coffee a few blocks away, and abide by a strict mask and cleaning policy.
“We’ve always said the difference between people who succeed and people who don’t is not giving up,” Ashaolu. “We’d rather fail spectacularly than not try. We’re just going for it.”
With gatherings on hold, the specialty tea, coffee, waffles and bakery The French Spot’s pastries will be the main attraction. But when things ease up, the sisters plan to host open mics and live music.
The sisters are also acutely aware of the dearth of Black-owned businesses in the South Bay and San Jose in particular, where just about 3% of the city’s million residents are Black. Ashaolu wants the space to give Black residents a feeling of ownership, starting with the physical space — which is dotted with paintings and murals from local South Bay Black and brown artists.
Last week, one participating artist told the sisters it was his very first time showing work in San Jose, Ashaolu said.
“Just hearing that alone was amazing — we want this to feel like home,” she said. “We’ve gotten a ton of messages from people of color saying, ‘This means so much to me that you’re doing this. San Jose just doesn’t have anything like this, I feel so alone here.'”
That message resonated with city residents who showed up Saturday morning to support the sisters. Anthony Gooch, 35, who lives downtown, first learned about Nirvana Soul’s opening online and arrived early to get his usual black coffee with two shots of espresso.
“It’s beautiful to see a new Black-owned business in downtown San Jose,” Gooch said. “I just love what they’ve been pushing, and that they’re giving opportunities to local artists and really showing love for the community.”
Ashaolu reflected that appreciation straight back onto the new customers.
“We’re so grateful,” she said. “I mean, we’re just so, so grateful.”


mercurynews--2020-09-27--Horoscopes Sept. 27, 2020: Meat Loaf, look for the good and the positive in every situation

Happy Birthday : Look for the good and the positive in every situation , and you ’ ll find peace and happiness .
You ’ ll gain insight into what ’ s best for you if you open your mind , heart and options to new beginnings .
The changes going on around you will dictate how you can prosper .
Enlightenment , personal gain and romance are heading your way .
Your numbers are 9 , 17 , 23 , 30 , 42 , 44 , 48 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Make personal improvements that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get trapped in a position that leaves no room for advancement .
Focus on adding to your skills and focusing on making a positive lifestyle change .
Romance is favored .
4 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : You ’ ll have a change of mind regarding your attitude toward work and your peers .
Redefine what it is you want to do , and consider how to turn your talents into something tangible .
Don ’ t let someone come between you and your dreams .
2 stars GEMINI @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your plans to include someone you love and the changes you want to make to your life personally and professionally .
Not everyone will agree with you .
Follow your heart , and you ’ ll achieve the peace and happiness you desire .
5 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : A tempting offer to socialize will be hard to turn down .
Stay put , play it safe and avoid excessive behavior .
Intelligence and common sense will help you prevent getting into a dangerous situation that will cause emotional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 23-Aug. 22 ) : An emotional situation will escalate if you make changes without the approval of loved ones .
Do what you can to include everyone in your plans , and it will help alleviate hurdles that can make your life difficult .
Make romance a priority .
3 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Put some muscle behind your ideas and plans .
Draw from those who can offer insight into the possibilities that lay ahead .
Refuse to let emotions interfere with making a clear-cut decision that will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
3 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Avoid emotional spending .
Focus on physical improvements that will encourage better health and emotional well-being .
Put an end to situations that cause anxiety .
A change that takes place will get you fired up to initiate what you want .
Romance is encouraged .
5 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Don ’ t act in haste .
Time is on your side .
Look for innovative ways to get what you want .
Concentrate on your surroundings and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ play and live life your way .
Opportunity is heading in your direction .
2 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : A few kind words will have an impact on your relationship with a friend , relative or lover .
If you make a promise , be sure to follow through .
Refuse to let someone meddle in your business .
Romance will enhance your life .
4 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : Improving your living space will motivate you to invest in comfort and peace of mind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ encourage stability .
How you live and handle your financial affairs will be instrumental to your emotional well-being .
3 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Share your intentions and feelings with someone special .
The outcome will help ease your mind .
Don ’ t let uncertainty prevail .
Be bold , direct and determined to get the answers you need to move forward .
A romantic gesture is encouraged .
3 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March 20 ) : When opportunity knocks , open the door .
Don ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are afraid of change or hanging on to the past .
Share your thoughts , and make a smart move .
Don ’ t take a risk with your health or money .
3 stars Birthday Baby : You are unpredictable , trendy and opportunistic .
You are passionate and fun-loving .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Lola Kirke, 30; Anna Camp, 38; Tamara Taylor, 50; Meat Loaf, 73.
Happy Birthday: Look for the good and the positive in every situation, and you’ll find peace and happiness. You’ll gain insight into what’s best for you if you open your mind, heart and options to new beginnings. The changes going on around you will dictate how you can prosper. Enlightenment, personal gain and romance are heading your way. Your numbers are 9, 17, 23, 30, 42, 44, 48.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Make personal improvements that will lead to new opportunities. Refuse to get trapped in a position that leaves no room for advancement. Focus on adding to your skills and focusing on making a positive lifestyle change. Romance is favored. 4 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You’ll have a change of mind regarding your attitude toward work and your peers. Redefine what it is you want to do, and consider how to turn your talents into something tangible. Don’t let someone come between you and your dreams. 2 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Expand your plans to include someone you love and the changes you want to make to your life personally and professionally. Not everyone will agree with you. Follow your heart, and you’ll achieve the peace and happiness you desire. 5 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): A tempting offer to socialize will be hard to turn down. Stay put, play it safe and avoid excessive behavior. Intelligence and common sense will help you prevent getting into a dangerous situation that will cause emotional setbacks. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): An emotional situation will escalate if you make changes without the approval of loved ones. Do what you can to include everyone in your plans, and it will help alleviate hurdles that can make your life difficult. Make romance a priority. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Put some muscle behind your ideas and plans. Draw from those who can offer insight into the possibilities that lay ahead. Refuse to let emotions interfere with making a clear-cut decision that will benefit you and the people you love. 3 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Avoid emotional spending. Focus on physical improvements that will encourage better health and emotional well-being. Put an end to situations that cause anxiety. A change that takes place will get you fired up to initiate what you want. Romance is encouraged. 5 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Don’t act in haste. Time is on your side. Look for innovative ways to get what you want. Concentrate on your surroundings and achieving a welcoming space to work, play and live life your way. Opportunity is heading in your direction. 2 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): A few kind words will have an impact on your relationship with a friend, relative or lover. If you make a promise, be sure to follow through. Refuse to let someone meddle in your business. Romance will enhance your life. 4 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Improving your living space will motivate you to invest in comfort and peace of mind. Make adjustments that ease stress and encourage stability. How you live and handle your financial affairs will be instrumental to your emotional well-being. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Share your intentions and feelings with someone special. The outcome will help ease your mind. Don’t let uncertainty prevail. Be bold, direct and determined to get the answers you need to move forward. A romantic gesture is encouraged. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): When opportunity knocks, open the door. Don’t miss out on something because you are afraid of change or hanging on to the past. Share your thoughts, and make a smart move. Don’t take a risk with your health or money. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are unpredictable, trendy and opportunistic. You are passionate and fun-loving.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


mercurynews--2020-09-27--Word Game: Sept. 27, 2020

Word Game: Sept. 27, 2020

TODAY ’ S WORD — PAGINATE ( PAGINATE : PAJ-ih-nate : To number the pages of a book , manuscript @ @ @ @ @ . )
Can you find 52 or more words in PAGINATE ?
To purchase the @ @ @ @ @ WordGameBooks.com .
Order it now for just $ 5 while supplies last !
1 .
@ @ @ @ @ or more letters .
2 .
Words that acquire four letters by the addition of @ @ @ @ @ as “ bats ” or “ dies , ” are not allowed .
3 .
@ @ @ @ @ a “ d ” or an “ s ” may not be used .
For @ @ @ @ @ ” is used , “ baked ” or “ bakes ” are not allowed , @ @ @ @ @ “ baking ” are admissible .
4 .
Proper nouns , slang words , or @ @ @ @ @ are not allowed .

TODAY’S WORD — PAGINATE (PAGINATE: PAJ-ih-nate: To number the pages of a book, manuscript, etc. in sequence.)
Average mark 35 words
Time limit 60 minutes
Can you find 52 or more words in PAGINATE?
TODAY’S WORD — PAGINATE paean pagan page pageant pain paint pane pang
pant pantie pate paten patina peat pent pieta pinata pine ping pint pita again agape
agate agent agnate ante anti apian aping apnea gain gait gape gate giant gnat inapt
inept nape neap neat taiga tang tapa tape taping tine tinea ting tinge eating
To purchase the Word Game book, visit WordGameBooks.com. Order it now for just $5 while supplies last!
RULES OF THE GAME:
1. Words must be of four or more letters.
2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed.
3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” are not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible.
4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.
Contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe at kzsaxe@gmail.com.


Bridge: Sept. 27, 2020

“ Do you ever ‘ see cards ’ around the table during the auction ?
” a club player asked me .
“ Experienced players do that , ” I replied .
“ The bidding can affect the value of their hand .
Also , in judging how high to bid , they may visualize possible hands for partner .
The saying is , ‘ Bidding is mental play . '
” “ I was South , ” he said , “ and when East-West competed in hearts , I ‘ saw ’ no wasted heart honors in North ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in clubs , I expected to make four spades .
But my crystal ball was a bit cloudy.
” At four spades , South played dummy ’ s king on the first heart , and East took the ace and returned a heart .
“ I threw a club and won in dummy , ” South told me , “ drew trumps and led a diamond to dummy ’ s king .
I ruffed dummy ’ s last heart and led the queen of diamonds , but when West took the ace , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ruffed but lost two clubs .
Down one.
” South was unlucky to find dummy with so much wasted heart strength , but four spades was makeable .
At Trick Two , South must ruff , deferring his discard on dummy ’ s high heart .
He draws trumps and leads the three of diamonds .
West is stuck .
If he plays low , South wins in dummy and discards his queen of diamonds on the high heart , losing two clubs and one heart .
If instead West grabs his ace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ South discards a club on the high heart , takes the queen of diamonds , and gets two more club discards on the K-10 of diamonds , losing one trick in each side suit .

“Do you ever ‘see cards’ around the table during the auction?” a club player asked me.
“Experienced players do that,” I replied. “The bidding can affect the value of their hand. Also, in judging how high to bid, they may visualize possible hands for partner. The saying is, ‘Bidding is mental play.'”
He displayed today’s deal.
“I was South,” he said, “and when East-West competed in hearts, I ‘saw’ no wasted heart honors in North’s hand. If his strength lay in clubs, I expected to make four spades. But my crystal ball was a bit cloudy.”
At four spades, South played dummy’s king on the first heart, and East took the ace and returned a heart.
“I threw a club and won in dummy,” South told me, “drew trumps and led a diamond to dummy’s king. I ruffed dummy’s last heart and led the queen of diamonds, but when West took the ace, he continued with the jack. I ruffed but lost two clubs. Down one.”
South was unlucky to find dummy with so much wasted heart strength, but four spades was makeable. At Trick Two, South must ruff, deferring his discard on dummy’s high heart. He draws trumps and leads the three of diamonds.
West is stuck. If he plays low, South wins in dummy and discards his queen of diamonds on the high heart, losing two clubs and one heart. If instead West grabs his ace of diamonds and leads another heart, South discards a club on the high heart, takes the queen of diamonds, and gets two more club discards on the K-10 of diamonds, losing one trick in each side suit.
West dealer
Both sides vulnerable
NORTH
S 10 9 6 4
H K Q 5
D K 10 4 2
C J 5
WEST
S 8
H 10 9 8 4 2
D A J 6
C A 10 6 4
EAST
S Q 2
H A J 6 3
D 9 8 7 5
C Q 9 8
SOUTH
S A K J 7 5 3
H 7
D Q 3
C K 7 3 2
West North East South
Pass Pass Pass 1 S
Dbl 2 S 3 H 4 S(!)
All Pass
Opening lead — H 10
(C)2020 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-09-27--Ask Amy: Here’s the story of a fed-up lady

Dear Amy : My husband and I married 16 years ago .
He has two sons and I have a son and daughter .
We were not the Brady Bunch , but I truly tried .
My stepsons have been involved in narcotics since they were middle-schoolers .
Today they are both near 30 , on methadone , and have been able to work and live on their own with my husband ’ s financial help .
We have had many upheavals in our lives , centered around their addictions and behavior .
My husband loves to have the family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ etc .
This is fine .
I understand .
However , the burden of shopping and preparing these meals falls to me .
My husband wants everything ready to slide onto the table the minute they walk in the door because he knows they only stay for a very short time .
• Ask Amy : I thought he was a good guy until he sent horrible texts about my sister • Ask Amy : After this foolish party , she texted me a one-word kiss-off • Ask Amy : Our friends perform @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s gross • Ask Amy : I suspect she only stays because of my money • Ask Amy : My wife made a plan I didn ’ t like , so I took the car and left .
Was I wrong ?
Yet even with advance planning , they are consistently late by two or three hours .
I get up early to start working on the meal , only to try to salvage it until they walk in the door .
I ’ ve suggested to my husband that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he says they need a wholesome , home-cooked meal .
And he makes excuses for their lateness .
It ’ s not like these meals are a surprise .
They agree to be there at a particular time , and they are always late .
I guess I should be happy that they eventually do show up , because they used to not show at all .
How do I get my husband to call his sons on this behavior ?
Dear Frustrated : Your husband is accepting what he can get from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all because they feel obligated to their father and you , and they eat and run because being home fills them with tension , sadness and guilt because of all they ’ ve been through , and all they ’ ve put you through .
I can understand why your husband doesn ’ t confront them about their lateness .
He wants to establish “ home ” as a place where they aren ’ t judged , criticized or stigmatized .
He ’ s going for “ normalcy , ” but the entire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you have two choices : You can commit to this experience , and decide that this is a beautiful way that you specifically can show your love and compassion toward these men .
Release your anger elsewhere , anticipate their lateness , and make food that is easily served room-temperature ( or easily reheated ) .
You can go on strike .
Tell your husband , “ This has become a very tough situation for me .
When it comes to these visits , you are very tense and demanding .
The next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sons , you are going to have to handle it .
I ’ ll help out , but you need to be in charge of the food.
” You and your husband should commit to counseling , and/or a “ friends and family ” support group .
Dear Amy : How do I gracefully withdraw from involvement in a church ?
My husband was attending , and I accompanied him for a time .
The members are good and well-meaning people who do good things .
I got involved in some activities that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID situation , I have had time for reflection .
I have found my heart returning to my own traditions .
My husband keeps telling me not to say anything to anyone .
I know that he likes and greatly respects my tradition , and is happy about it , but he has a commitment for a year to the church .
I am fine with him attending alone .
If , however , in the future , the church opens up , I know people will be asking where I am , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ handle this .
I don ’ t want to leave people hanging , but also don ’ t want to apologize for my beliefs .
Dear Gracefully : Your husband should not ask you to stay quiet .
You have nothing to be ashamed of or embarrassed about .
If asked , you can say , “ I appreciated my involvement in the church ; in fact , it has inspired me to return to my own traditional faith practice.
” Dear Amy : “ Upset Wife ” claimed to be bothered that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t call him more often .
I have a theory ( based on my own experience ) .
I think it ’ s possible that they don ’ t call because they don ’ t want to talk to her !
She needs to stay out of this .
Dear Close : Several readers shared your theory — and you could be right !
Regardless , these are his relationships to manage , not hers .
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy @ amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NY 13068 .
You can also follow her on Twitter @ askingamy or Facebook .

Dear Amy: My husband and I married 16 years ago. He has two sons and I have a son and daughter. We were not the Brady Bunch, but I truly tried.
My stepsons have been involved in narcotics since they were middle-schoolers. Today they are both near 30, on methadone, and have been able to work and live on their own with my husband’s financial help. We have had many upheavals in our lives, centered around their addictions and behavior.
My husband loves to have the family together for meals, birthday celebrations, etc. This is fine. I understand. However, the burden of shopping and preparing these meals falls to me.
My husband wants everything ready to slide onto the table the minute they walk in the door because he knows they only stay for a very short time.
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I get up early to start working on the meal, only to try to salvage it until they walk in the door. I’ve suggested to my husband that he cook or order in food, but he says they need a wholesome, home-cooked meal.
And he makes excuses for their lateness. It’s not like these meals are a surprise. They agree to be there at a particular time, and they are always late.
I guess I should be happy that they eventually do show up, because they used to not show at all.
How do I get my husband to call his sons on this behavior?
Frustrated in the Kitchen
Dear Frustrated: Your husband is accepting what he can get from his sons. They show up at all because they feel obligated to their father and you, and they eat and run because being home fills them with tension, sadness and guilt because of all they’ve been through, and all they’ve put you through.
I can understand why your husband doesn’t confront them about their lateness. He wants to establish “home” as a place where they aren’t judged, criticized or stigmatized. He’s going for “normalcy,” but the entire situation is very loaded.
I think you have two choices:
You can commit to this experience, and decide that this is a beautiful way that you specifically can show your love and compassion toward these men. Release your anger elsewhere, anticipate their lateness, and make food that is easily served room-temperature (or easily reheated).
You can go on strike. Tell your husband, “This has become a very tough situation for me. When it comes to these visits, you are very tense and demanding. The next time we plan a meal with our sons, you are going to have to handle it. I’ll help out, but you need to be in charge of the food.”
You and your husband should commit to counseling, and/or a “friends and family” support group.
Dear Amy: How do I gracefully withdraw from involvement in a church?
My husband was attending, and I accompanied him for a time. The members are good and well-meaning people who do good things.
I got involved in some activities that the church offered, but with this COVID situation, I have had time for reflection. I have found my heart returning to my own traditions.
My husband keeps telling me not to say anything to anyone. I know that he likes and greatly respects my tradition, and is happy about it, but he has a commitment for a year to the church.
I am fine with him attending alone. If, however, in the future, the church opens up, I know people will be asking where I am, and I am not sure how to handle this. I don’t want to leave people hanging, but also don’t want to apologize for my beliefs.
Gracefully Wondering
Dear Gracefully: Your husband should not ask you to stay quiet. You have nothing to be ashamed of or embarrassed about.
If asked, you can say, “I appreciated my involvement in the church; in fact, it has inspired me to return to my own traditional faith practice.”
Dear Amy: “Upset Wife” claimed to be bothered that her husband’s siblings didn’t call him more often.
I have a theory (based on my own experience). I think it’s possible that they don’t call because they don’t want to talk to her!
She needs to stay out of this.
Close Sibling
Dear Close: Several readers shared your theory — and you could be right! Regardless, these are his relationships to manage, not hers.
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.


mercurynews--2020-09-27--Dear Abby: I’ve had premonitions come true, and this one says I’m about to die

DEAR ABBY : I ’ m 48 , about to be 49 in less than a month .
I have had mostly good health , but I do have high anxiety because of some trauma from my past .
With the world now in hibernation and many of my peers passing away due to illness or some other tragedy , I ’ m feeling very much like I could be the next to die .
I ’ m not suicidal , but I have had “ premonitions ” in the past about events that later came true .
For some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I am close to death recently , and it scares me .
• Dear Abby : The 10-year-old who wrecked my marriage is grown up and still hates me • Dear Abby : She spreads lies about me , and everyone believes her • Dear Abby : Her engagement is my worst fear come true • Dear Abby : They think it ’ s their family house even after we bought it How do I snap out of this preoccupation with death ?
DEAR STRANGE : Turn off the news !
Quit reading @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They are enough to scare anyone to death .
In a sense , we are all “ close to death ” — it ’ s just a question of when .
You will increase your chances of survival if you pay attention to what the medical experts have been saying .
The message is simple : If you are in fragile physical condition , hunker down and limit your exposure .
Stay in contact with friends by cellphone or your computer .
If you are healthy and can go out for exercise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mask in the presence of others , wash your hands often and practice social distancing .
However , if your anxiety persists , discuss it with your physician , who may be able to prescribe something to calm you down .
DEAR ABBY : I am a 41-year-old woman who has been with my fiancé for eight years .
Before we decided to become a couple , I made clear to him that if he had no intention of moving south once my kids graduate , he should not get into a relationship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I assumed he understood and would be moving with me .
We have bought vehicles together and a house .
Earlier this year , he took me on a cruise and proposed .
Again I made it clear about my plans to move south and told him not to give me a ring if he didn ’ t plan on going .
Well , here we are all these years later , and we have been fighting because I have only a year before I can leave .
Is it wrong of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , considering I made my intentions clear more than once ?
It has long been my dream to move south .
I believe he ’ s on the fence about it , but I know deep down he doesn ’ t want to .
I won ’ t feel bad leaving him behind since he knew I was going .
I feel like eight years of my life have been wasted .
DEAR FRUSTRATED : If you two have been happy together during the last eight years , they weren ’ t “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more chapter in your life .
Rather than fight , you and your fiance ( or are the two of you married now ? )
need to have a calm , serious discussion about what ’ s going to happen , because if he isn ’ t on board for at least giving southern living a try , you two will have to separate your assets ( house , cars ) before you relocate .
It may be less expensive emotionally and financially if you can keep things amicable .
TO MY READERS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Jewish calendar , begins at sundown .
During this solemn 24-hour period , observant Jewish people fast , engage in reflection and prayer and formally repent for any sin that might have been committed during the previous Hebrew year .
To all of my Jewish readers — may your fast be an easy one .
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren , also known as Jeanne Phillips , and was founded by her mother , Pauline Phillips .
Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O .
Box 69440 , @ @ @ @ @ @

DEAR ABBY: I’m 48, about to be 49 in less than a month. I have had mostly good health, but I do have high anxiety because of some trauma from my past.
With the world now in hibernation and many of my peers passing away due to illness or some other tragedy, I’m feeling very much like I could be the next to die.
I’m not suicidal, but I have had “premonitions” in the past about events that later came true. For some reason, I have been feeling like I am close to death recently, and it scares me.
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STRANGE FEELINGS
DEAR STRANGE: Turn off the news! Quit reading about and listening to the body counts. They are enough to scare anyone to death. In a sense, we are all “close to death” — it’s just a question of when. You will increase your chances of survival if you pay attention to what the medical experts have been saying.
The message is simple: If you are in fragile physical condition, hunker down and limit your exposure. Stay in contact with friends by cellphone or your computer. If you are healthy and can go out for exercise or to shop, wear a face mask in the presence of others, wash your hands often and practice social distancing. However, if your anxiety persists, discuss it with your physician, who may be able to prescribe something to calm you down.
DEAR ABBY: I am a 41-year-old woman who has been with my fiancé for eight years. Before we decided to become a couple, I made clear to him that if he had no intention of moving south once my kids graduate, he should not get into a relationship with me.
When we got together, I assumed he understood and would be moving with me. We have bought vehicles together and a house.
Earlier this year, he took me on a cruise and proposed. Again I made it clear about my plans to move south and told him not to give me a ring if he didn’t plan on going.
Well, here we are all these years later, and we have been fighting because I have only a year before I can leave. Is it wrong of me to not feel bad about moving, considering I made my intentions clear more than once?
It has long been my dream to move south. I believe he’s on the fence about it, but I know deep down he doesn’t want to. I won’t feel bad leaving him behind since he knew I was going. I feel like eight years of my life have been wasted.
FRUSTRATED IN NEW YORK
DEAR FRUSTRATED: If you two have been happy together during the last eight years, they weren’t “wasted.”
They may simply be one more chapter in your life. Rather than fight, you and your fiance (or are the two of you married now?) need to have a calm, serious discussion about what’s going to happen, because if he isn’t on board for at least giving southern living a try, you two will have to separate your assets (house, cars) before you relocate. It may be less expensive emotionally and financially if you can keep things amicable.
TO MY READERS: Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, begins at sundown. During this solemn 24-hour period, observant Jewish people fast, engage in reflection and prayer and formally repent for any sin that might have been committed during the previous Hebrew year. To all of my Jewish readers — may your fast be an easy one.
Love, ABBY
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.


mercurynews--2020-09-27--Concord: Teens’ brawl at the mall prompts Sunvalley to close early

CONCORD — A brawl that broke out amongst a large group of teens at Sunvalley mall Saturday afternoon was quickly @ @ @ @ @ officers but nevertheless compelled the shopping to center to close early , according to Concord @ @ @ @ @ around 5:30 p.m. for reports that a “ large gathering ” of roughly 50 teens @ @ @ @ @ fights , Lt. Robert Garcia said .
Garcia said the officers ’ arrival prompted the @ @ @ @ @ that the officers were mostly involved in helping shepherd mall patrons outside after mall management @ @ @ @ @ the day .
No injuries were reported , and no arrests were made , Garcia @ @ @ @ @ breaking up when we got there , so we didn ’ t have to do @ @ @ @ @ there , ” he said .
Garcia added that there was no immediate indication that @ @ @ @ @ of specific rivalries , gang or otherwise .

CONCORD — A brawl that broke out amongst a large group of teens at Sunvalley mall Saturday afternoon was quickly broken up by responding police officers but nevertheless compelled the shopping to center to close early, according to Concord police.
Officers were called around 5:30 p.m. for reports that a “large gathering” of roughly 50 teens had broken out into multiple fights, Lt. Robert Garcia said.
Garcia said the officers’ arrival prompted the altercations to dissipate, and that the officers were mostly involved in helping shepherd mall patrons outside after mall management decided to shut down for the day.
No injuries were reported, and no arrests were made, Garcia said.
“It started breaking up when we got there, so we didn’t have to do much beyond having our presence there,” he said.
Garcia added that there was no immediate indication that the fights involved any kind of specific rivalries, gang or otherwise.


mercurynews--2020-09-27--Mississippi State stuns LSU as former Stanford quarterback sets SEC passing record

K.J .
Costello passed for an SEC-record 623 yards and threw five touchdown passes in the Mississippi State debut of coach Mike Leach ’ s “ Air Raid ” offense , and the Bulldogs knocked off defending national champion LSU 44-34 in Baton Rouge , La .
Costello ’ s passing yardage in his first game since transferring from Stanford to Starkville , Mississippi , eclipsed the 544 yards Georgia ’ s Eric Zeier had against Southern Mississippi in 1993 to set the Southeastern Conference record .
And Costello needed most of it to make up for his two interceptions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LSU rally to tie the game at 34 before he engineered a pair of scoring drives in the final 10 minutes .
“ I don ’ t know if any individual could visualize this taking place , ” said Costello , who was Stanford ’ s starter in 2017 and 2018 before head and hand injuries sidelined him last season .
“ I wasn ’ t visualizing sitting here breaking records .
… I ’ m excited about the potential that this offense has because , believe it or not , we did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ With this group , I don ’ t feel like we ever lose momentum .
I feel like we ’ re always in the attack mode .
That ’ s just Leach ’ s philosophy.
” LSU became the first defending national champion to lose its opening game since Michigan in 1998 lost at Notre Dame and had its 16-game winning streak , the nation ’ s best , snapped .
“ Coach Leach had his team ready to play .
They beat us .
We have no excuses , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I told the team to put this on me .
I ’ ve got to coach better.
” LSU quarterback Myles Brennan intermittently showed promise in his debut as starter in place of 2019 Heisman Trophy winner and top NFL draft choice Joe Burrow .
But Brennan ’ s 345 yards and three touchdowns passing could not make up for the trouble the Tigers ’ inexperienced defense had in new coordinator Bo Pelini ’ s scheme .
“ We couldn ’ t stay with those guys , ” Orgeron said .
“ Too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ running free , getting beat one on one .
We have to look at whether or not we can cover man to man .
If we can ’ t , we are going to have to play more zone.
” Four of Costello ’ s touchdown passes covered between 24 and 75 yards .
The longest came on Kylin Hill ’ s catch and run in which the running back slipped safety Todd Harris ’ tackle along the sideline .
Osirus Mitchell caught touchdown passes of 43 and 24 yards , the second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scores with 3:39 left .
It was “ embarrassing ” for a program known as DBU , said LSU safety Jacoby Stevens .
“ It ’ s like going into a boxing ring and getting knocked out.
” Leach said he was confident his “ Air Raid ” offense could work in the mighty SEC , because it has before .
He was an assistant under Hal Mumme at Kentucky two decades ago when Tim Couch and the Wildcats were setting records .
“ There ’ s a lot of offenses that if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the philosophy and you attack the field and you execute , are good offenses , ” Leach said , “ I don ’ t think it ’ s some special secret plays as much as you constantly work every day to execute what you do.
” Transfer linebacker Jabril Cox , who played at FCS power North Dakota State , scored LSU ’ s opening touchdown on an interception and 14-yard return .
LSU ’ s Terrace Marshall Jr. had touchdown catches of 37 and 33 yards .
Freshman tight end Arik @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to turn Brennan ’ s desperate throw as he was going down into a 2-yard score .
But Brennan struggled to make quick and decisive reads .
He was sacked seven times .
The first of his two interceptions came when linebacker Jordan Davis hit the QB ’ s elbow as he threw .
The ball went straight to cornerback Esaias Furdge at the Bulldogs 24 .
No .
2 Alabama 38 , Missouri 19 : Mac Jones threw for 249 yards and two touchdowns in less than three quarters of work , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ capable hands of Jaylen Waddle , and No .
2 Alabama began its Southeastern Conference-only schedule with a romp over rebuilding Missouri .
Waddle finished with eight catches for 134 yards and two touchdowns and Najee Harris ran for 98 yards and three more scores .
• Zoom calls with Shanahan , Gruden were great , but San Jose State now gets to play • San Jose State will play fall football as Mountain West reverses course • SJSU football could be back next month as Mountain West eyes fall season Kansas State @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Skylar Thompson threw for 334 yards and ran for three touchdowns and Kansas State rallied from 21 points down to stun Oklahoma .
Freshman Deuce Vaughn caught four passes for 129 yards and ran for a touchdown in the Wildcats ’ first road victory over a top-three team in the AP poll .
They rebounded from an opening loss to Arkansas State .

BY BRETT MARTEL, ASSOCIATED PRESS
K.J. Costello passed for an SEC-record 623 yards and threw five touchdown passes in the Mississippi State debut of coach Mike Leach’s “Air Raid” offense, and the Bulldogs knocked off defending national champion LSU 44-34 in Baton Rouge, La.
Costello’s passing yardage in his first game since transferring from Stanford to Starkville, Mississippi, eclipsed the 544 yards Georgia’s Eric Zeier had against Southern Mississippi in 1993 to set the Southeastern Conference record.
And Costello needed most of it to make up for his two interceptions and two lost fumbles, which helped LSU rally to tie the game at 34 before he engineered a pair of scoring drives in the final 10 minutes.
“I don’t know if any individual could visualize this taking place,” said Costello, who was Stanford’s starter in 2017 and 2018 before head and hand injuries sidelined him last season. “I wasn’t visualizing sitting here breaking records. … I’m excited about the potential that this offense has because, believe it or not, we did leave a lot on the field today.
“With this group, I don’t feel like we ever lose momentum. I feel like we’re always in the attack mode. That’s just Leach’s philosophy.”
LSU became the first defending national champion to lose its opening game since Michigan in 1998 lost at Notre Dame and had its 16-game winning streak, the nation’s best, snapped.
“Coach Leach had his team ready to play. They beat us. We have no excuses,” LSU coach Ed Orgeron said. “I told the team to put this on me. I’ve got to coach better.”
LSU quarterback Myles Brennan intermittently showed promise in his debut as starter in place of 2019 Heisman Trophy winner and top NFL draft choice Joe Burrow. But Brennan’s 345 yards and three touchdowns passing could not make up for the trouble the Tigers’ inexperienced defense had in new coordinator Bo Pelini’s scheme.
“We couldn’t stay with those guys,” Orgeron said. “Too many missed assignments. Too many guys running free, getting beat one on one. We have to look at whether or not we can cover man to man. If we can’t, we are going to have to play more zone.”
Four of Costello’s touchdown passes covered between 24 and 75 yards. The longest came on Kylin Hill’s catch and run in which the running back slipped safety Todd Harris’ tackle along the sideline. Osirus Mitchell caught touchdown passes of 43 and 24 yards, the second putting the Bulldogs back up by two scores with 3:39 left.
It was “embarrassing” for a program known as DBU, said LSU safety Jacoby Stevens. “It’s like going into a boxing ring and getting knocked out.”
Leach said he was confident his “Air Raid” offense could work in the mighty SEC, because it has before. He was an assistant under Hal Mumme at Kentucky two decades ago when Tim Couch and the Wildcats were setting records.
“There’s a lot of offenses that if people are just kind of really committed to the philosophy and you attack the field and you execute, are good offenses,” Leach said,
“I don’t think it’s some special secret plays as much as you constantly work every day to execute what you do.”
Transfer linebacker Jabril Cox, who played at FCS power North Dakota State, scored LSU’s opening touchdown on an interception and 14-yard return.
LSU’s Terrace Marshall Jr. had touchdown catches of 37 and 33 yards. Freshman tight end Arik Gilbert leaped in front of a defender to turn Brennan’s desperate throw as he was going down into a 2-yard score.
But Brennan struggled to make quick and decisive reads. He was sacked seven times.
The first of his two interceptions came when linebacker Jordan Davis hit the QB’s elbow as he threw. The ball went straight to cornerback Esaias Furdge at the Bulldogs 24.
No. 2 Alabama 38, Missouri 19: Mac Jones threw for 249 yards and two touchdowns in less than three quarters of work, many of his throws landing in the capable hands of Jaylen Waddle, and No. 2 Alabama began its Southeastern Conference-only schedule with a romp over rebuilding Missouri.
Waddle finished with eight catches for 134 yards and two touchdowns and Najee Harris ran for 98 yards and three more scores.
Kansas State 38, No. 3 Oklahoma 35: Skylar Thompson threw for 334 yards and ran for three touchdowns and Kansas State rallied from 21 points down to stun Oklahoma. Freshman Deuce Vaughn caught four passes for 129 yards and ran for a touchdown in the Wildcats’ first road victory over a top-three team in the AP poll. They rebounded from an opening loss to Arkansas State.


mercurynews--2020-09-27--SF Giants will need hope, help to make postseason after another loss to Padres

SAN FRANCISCO — In a week that ’ s been filled with gut-wrenching losses , careless mistakes and missed opportunities , the San Francisco Giants will still play a game with postseason implications on the final day of the regular season .
A Milwaukee Brewers victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday ensured the Giants couldn ’ t clinch a National League wild-card berth on Saturday against the Padres , but San Francisco ’ s 6-2 loss to San Diego took the Giants ’ playoff destiny out of their own hands .
“ There ’ s real frustration , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There ’ s frustration in the dugout , there ’ s going to be frustration in the clubhouse , there will be frustration in the coach ’ s room and rightfully so .
We know we had a chance to win today ’ s baseball game and last night ’ s game and we didn ’ t get it done.
” If the Brewers beat the Cardinals again on Sunday , the Giants will likely be sitting at home in October , thinking back on a week and a 60-game season loaded with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Giants can make the postseason if they lose on Sunday would require St. Louis to lose to Milwaukee and then travel to Detroit on Monday where they would have to drop both games of a doubleheader against the Tigers to fall to 29-31 .
The Giants can still secure the eighth and final seed in the NL playoffs and ensure a first-round matchup with the Los Angeles Dodgers , but they ’ ll need Cardinals right-hander Austin Gomber to shut down the Brewers and secure their own win over San Diego to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After reliever Sam Coonrod blew seventh-inning leads on Thursday in a 5-4 , 11-inning loss to the Rockies and on Friday in Game 2 of a 6-5 seven-inning doubleheader defeat to the Padres , it was the Giants ’ offense that let the team down on Saturday .
The Giants scored a pair of runs in the eighth inning and had the tying run at second base before third baseman Evan Longoria struck out against reliever Dan Altavilla to end the team ’ s only rally of the night .
In the top @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Giants ’ efforts with home runs from Tommy Pham and Mitch Moreland against left-hander Tony Watson .
Right-hander Johnny Cueto allowed three runs in the top of the fifth including one on a go-ahead solo homer from shortstop Fernando Tatis , Jr. , but was otherwise effective against a tough San Diego lineup .
“ I was giving my full-out effort , ” Cueto said .
“ I was trying to get grounders for double plays like I had done earlier in the game , but unfortunately that inning nothing worked out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I could for us to win the game.
” The Giants ’ best scoring opportunity with Cueto still in the game came immediately after the Padres took the lead as center fielder Mauricio Dubón reached on a single and catcher Tyler Heineman was hit by a pitch to start the bottom of the fifth .
With the Giants trailing 3-0 and leadoff hitter Mike Yastrzemski at the plate , Dubón committed another stunning base running mistake in a season that has featured far too many of them .
As reliever Craig Stammen started @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off for third on a needless attempt to steal a base and was thrown out by catcher Austin Nola .
A reasonable risk-reward calculation would have rendered the idea of attempting to steal third useless , but Dubón took off anyway and was thrown out during an at-bat that ultimately finished with a Yastrzemski strikeout .
“ He just made a mistake at a critical time in the game , ” Kapler said .
“ Dubón and I talked about it after the game and I told him I needed to be honest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a really bad baseball play .
It ’ s a bad baseball play because there ’ s atiny , tiny bit of upside and there ’ s a ton of downside.
” Cueto ’ s night ended after 6 ⅓ innings when a borderline 3-2 pitch was called a ball to Nola on the 13th pitch of a plate appearance .
It wasn ’ t the ending Cueto wanted , but it was hardly the season he wanted either as his 5.40 ERA was easily the highest of his 13-year major league @ @ @ @ @ @ @ short season and my numbers are not what I expected , ” Cueto said .
“ What we have to do is try and win tomorrow and if we move on then maybe I ’ ll get another chance.
” A Giants victory on Saturday would have eliminated manager Gabe Kapler ’ s former club , the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL wild-card race , but the Phillies will also remain alive on the final day of the regular season .
Philadelphia can ’ t get into the playoffs if the Giants win @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tiebreaker over the Brewers and would secure a wild card spot with losses by both the Giants and Brewers .
In a year that began with low expectations from a fan base that ’ s seen the Giants suffer through three consecutive losing seasons , Kapler ’ s club managed to provide entertainment and excitement in unexpected ways .
That missing the playoffs would suddenly feel like a major disappointment can be viewed as a sign of progress , but that ’ s a big-picture perspective .
After watching the Giants climb out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season to control their own destiny for much of the final week , fans understood the playoffs were well within reach .
• Why Mike Yastrzemski was the perfect choice for 2020 Willie Mac Award • How the SF Giants can clinch a playoff spot on Saturday or Sunday • Why the Giants used a pitcher with an 8.16 ERA in their biggest inning in four years • SF Giants lose on a walk-off at home to Padres , miss opportunity to inch closer to playoff berth On Sunday , the Giants need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they don ’ t play well , however , hope and help won ’ t be enough to save them .
“ I ’ ve already turned the page , ” Kapler said .
“ Tonight sucked .
We are prepared to come out and win tomorrow ’ s game .
”

SAN FRANCISCO — In a week that’s been filled with gut-wrenching losses, careless mistakes and missed opportunities, the San Francisco Giants will still play a game with postseason implications on the final day of the regular season.
A Milwaukee Brewers victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday ensured the Giants couldn’t clinch a National League wild-card berth on Saturday against the Padres, but San Francisco’s 6-2 loss to San Diego took the Giants’ playoff destiny out of their own hands.
“There’s real frustration,” manager Gabe Kapler said. “There’s frustration in the dugout, there’s going to be frustration in the clubhouse, there will be frustration in the coach’s room and rightfully so. We know we had a chance to win today’s baseball game and last night’s game and we didn’t get it done.”
If the Brewers beat the Cardinals again on Sunday, the Giants will likely be sitting at home in October, thinking back on a week and a 60-game season loaded with crushing late losses. The only scenario the Giants can make the postseason if they lose on Sunday would require St. Louis to lose to Milwaukee and then travel to Detroit on Monday where they would have to drop both games of a doubleheader against the Tigers to fall to 29-31.
The Giants can still secure the eighth and final seed in the NL playoffs and ensure a first-round matchup with the Los Angeles Dodgers, but they’ll need Cardinals right-hander Austin Gomber to shut down the Brewers and secure their own win over San Diego to move to 30-30 on the year.
After reliever Sam Coonrod blew seventh-inning leads on Thursday in a 5-4, 11-inning loss to the Rockies and on Friday in Game 2 of a 6-5 seven-inning doubleheader defeat to the Padres, it was the Giants’ offense that let the team down on Saturday.
The Giants scored a pair of runs in the eighth inning and had the tying run at second base before third baseman Evan Longoria struck out against reliever Dan Altavilla to end the team’s only rally of the night. In the top of the ninth, the Padres erased the Giants’ efforts with home runs from Tommy Pham and Mitch Moreland against left-hander Tony Watson.
Right-hander Johnny Cueto allowed three runs in the top of the fifth including one on a go-ahead solo homer from shortstop Fernando Tatis, Jr., but was otherwise effective against a tough San Diego lineup.
“I was giving my full-out effort,” Cueto said. “I was trying to get grounders for double plays like I had done earlier in the game, but unfortunately that inning nothing worked out. I was trying to do everything I could for us to win the game.”
The Giants’ best scoring opportunity with Cueto still in the game came immediately after the Padres took the lead as center fielder Mauricio Dubón reached on a single and catcher Tyler Heineman was hit by a pitch to start the bottom of the fifth. With the Giants trailing 3-0 and leadoff hitter Mike Yastrzemski at the plate, Dubón committed another stunning base running mistake in a season that has featured far too many of them.
As reliever Craig Stammen started his motion toward home, Dubón took off for third on a needless attempt to steal a base and was thrown out by catcher Austin Nola. A reasonable risk-reward calculation would have rendered the idea of attempting to steal third useless, but Dubón took off anyway and was thrown out during an at-bat that ultimately finished with a Yastrzemski strikeout.
“He just made a mistake at a critical time in the game,” Kapler said. “Dubón and I talked about it after the game and I told him I needed to be honest with him. I told him that is a really bad baseball play. It’s a bad baseball play because there’s atiny, tiny bit of upside and there’s a ton of downside.”
Cueto’s night ended after 6 ⅓ innings when a borderline 3-2 pitch was called a ball to Nola on the 13th pitch of a plate appearance. It wasn’t the ending Cueto wanted, but it was hardly the season he wanted either as his 5.40 ERA was easily the highest of his 13-year major league career.
“It was a very short season and my numbers are not what I expected,” Cueto said. “What we have to do is try and win tomorrow and if we move on then maybe I’ll get another chance.”
A Giants victory on Saturday would have eliminated manager Gabe Kapler’s former club, the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL wild-card race, but the Phillies will also remain alive on the final day of the regular season. Philadelphia can’t get into the playoffs if the Giants win Sunday, but the Phillies hold a tiebreaker over the Brewers and would secure a wild card spot with losses by both the Giants and Brewers.
In a year that began with low expectations from a fan base that’s seen the Giants suffer through three consecutive losing seasons, Kapler’s club managed to provide entertainment and excitement in unexpected ways.
That missing the playoffs would suddenly feel like a major disappointment can be viewed as a sign of progress, but that’s a big-picture perspective. After watching the Giants climb out of an 8-16 hole to open the season to control their own destiny for much of the final week, fans understood the playoffs were well within reach.
On Sunday, the Giants need some hope and some help. If they don’t play well, however, hope and help won’t be enough to save them.
“I’ve already turned the page,” Kapler said. “Tonight sucked. We are prepared to come out and win tomorrow’s game.”


mercurynews--2020-09-27--Can California’s power grid handle all these electric cars? Roadshow

Q : Now that our dear governor has issued his edict for all electric cars by 2035 , could your experts compute as to how many more gigawatts of power will have to be added to our super electric grid which can ’ t handle a hot summer day , a day when the wind blows , or the number of windmills for the night when solar power doesn ’ t work ?
This would be of great interest to folks charging their cars for the next day ’ s trip .
A : I ’ m sure that would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s too early to say how many chargers will be needed statewide in 2035 for Gov .
Gavin Newsom ’ s call that all vehicles sold in the state be electric in 15 more years .
So I turned to Paul-the-Merc ’ s-Environmental-Guy .
He reports : “ California ’ s grid problem is pretty easily fixed , many experts say .
They describe it as more of a growing pain as the state increases renewable energy than a fatal flaw .
California now gets 34 % of its electricity from renewable energy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gas emissions .
That number will continue to increase , as state law requires 60 % by 2030 .
“ Experts , including those at the ISO ( Independent System Operator ) , the agency that runs the grid , say that the state Public Utilities Commission needs to require utilities like PG & E to sign more contracts with power generators to ensure they have enough electricity , even during extreme heat waves like we had during last month ’ s two days of blackouts .
Also , the state is requiring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that solar power can be preserved as the sun goes down and used later .
That storage will continue to ramp up , reducing the shortfall at night during heat waves .
“ Electric cars can be and are charged at people ’ s homes , off solar panels on their roofs .
Not all of it comes from the power grid .
“ People can still keep and drive their existing gasoline cars , pickups , minivans and SUVs , and can buy and sell used ones .
They may be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of state , although chances are high that other states and the nation as a whole may pass similar laws , the way that Canada , England , Germany , France , Israel , India and other countries have.
” My thoughts : We can see the terrible impact of climate change from droughts and rampaging wildfires in western states to increasingly frequent tropical storms and hurricanes in coastal and eastern states , as well as freak storms such as the hurricane-force derecho that tore through Iowa in August .
It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to curb climate change .
The effects of our actions now will long outlive us .
Roadshow readers , what are your thoughts ?
Join Gary Richards for an hourlong chat noon Wednesday at www.mercurynews.com/live-chats .
Look for Gary Richards at Facebook.com/mr.roadshow or contact him at mrroadshow @ bayareanewsgroup.com or 408-920-5335 .

Q: Now that our dear governor has issued his edict for all electric cars by 2035, could your experts compute as to how many more gigawatts of power will have to be added to our super electric grid which can’t handle a hot summer day, a day when the wind blows, or the number of windmills for the night when solar power doesn’t work? This would be of great interest to folks charging their cars for the next day’s trip.
Charles Shoemaker, Sunnyvale
Like Mr. Roadshow’s Facebook page for more questions and answers about Bay Area roads, freeways and commuting.
A: I’m sure that would be of great interest. It’s too early to say how many chargers will be needed statewide in 2035 for Gov. Gavin Newsom’s call that all vehicles sold in the state be electric in 15 more years.
So I turned to Paul-the-Merc’ s-Environmental-Guy. He reports:
“California’s grid problem is pretty easily fixed, many experts say. They describe it as more of a growing pain as the state increases renewable energy than a fatal flaw. California now gets 34% of its electricity from renewable energy, which has reduced smog and greenhouse gas emissions. That number will continue to increase, as state law requires 60% by 2030.
“Experts, including those at the ISO (Independent System Operator), the agency that runs the grid, say that the state Public Utilities Commission needs to require utilities like PG&E to sign more contracts with power generators to ensure they have enough electricity, even during extreme heat waves like we had during last month’s two days of blackouts. Also, the state is requiring utilities to provide more battery storage so that solar power can be preserved as the sun goes down and used later. That storage will continue to ramp up, reducing the shortfall at night during heat waves.
“Electric cars can be and are charged at people’s homes, off solar panels on their roofs. Not all of it comes from the power grid.
“People can still keep and drive their existing gasoline cars, pickups, minivans and SUVs, and can buy and sell used ones. They may be able to buy a new gas-powered vehicle out of state, although chances are high that other states and the nation as a whole may pass similar laws, the way that Canada, England, Germany, France, Israel, India and other countries have.”
My thoughts: We can see the terrible impact of climate change from droughts and rampaging wildfires in western states to increasingly frequent tropical storms and hurricanes in coastal and eastern states, as well as freak storms such as the hurricane-force derecho that tore through Iowa in August.
It’s beyond time that we take drastic efforts to curb climate change. The effects of our actions now will long outlive us.
Roadshow readers, what are your thoughts?
Join Gary Richards for an hourlong chat noon Wednesday at www.mercurynews.com/live-chats. Look for Gary Richards at Facebook.com/mr.roadshow or contact him at mrroadshow@bayareanewsgroup.com or 408-920-5335.


mercurynews--2020-09-27--A’s swept in doubleheader; playoff seed, opponent to be finalized Sunday

OAKLAND — It might not matter who the A ’ s play in the first round of the American League playoffs , or what their seed is in the expanded postseason format .
The A ’ s will have almost no margin for error — regardless of the opponent — if their offense can ’ t find a way to ignite between now and next week .
The A ’ s were swept by the Seattle Mariners in their doubleheader Saturday at the Coliseum , losing the opener 5-1 after they failed to pick up a clutch hit , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was knocked out of the game in the third inning .
A ’ s manager Bob Melvin rested a handful of lineup regulars in the second game , although Robbie Grossman hit two solo home runs , his first MLB game with two homers .
Still , the A ’ s went a combined 1-for-16 with runners in scoring position and left a combined 12 runners on base .
Oakland has now been limited to three runs or less in six of its last seven games .
That ’ s no way to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s will find out Sunday what their seed is for the AL playoffs and who their first round opponent will be .
“ I just think it ’ s baseball , ” Grossman said .
“ We ’ ve played I don ’ t know how many games in the last month .
We ’ re at the last game tomorrow and everyone ’ s just looking forward to getting into the playoffs and getting that second wind.
” The A ’ s finish the regular season Sunday as their four-game series @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and will host the best-of-three first round series that starts Tuesday .
Oakland will finish as the second or third seed in the American League , and can still play a variety of opponents , including the Houston Astros and the Cleveland Indians .
In the middle of a pandemic , perhaps it ’ s a small miracle that MLB was able to complete a 60-game regular season .
By the time Sunday ’ s game ends , the A ’ s will have played 26 games in 24 days , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This has been physically and mentally the hardest season I ’ ve ever been a part of , ” Grossman said .
“ Not even close .
The other day we played three night games in a row ( against the Dodgers ) .
It ’ s the first time it ’ s happened all year .
That doesn ’ t happen .
I ’ d definitely say this has been the hardest — physically and mentally — season I ’ ve ever been a part of.
” The A ’ s coaching @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advance work at looking at possible first round opponents , but the bulk of that work will start Sunday night .
“ You try and look and guess and map out the scenarios in the coaching room , and you really can ’ t , ” A ’ s quality control coach Mark Kotsay said Saturday morning .
“ So , when we find out opponent , we ’ ll get to work and definitely vet and do our best as a staff to prepare and get ready for our opponent , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we ’ re about to get into.
” The A ’ s will hold a team workout Monday to prepare for their third straight postseason appearance .
Manager Bob Melvin has not yet announced who his Game 1 starter will be , although he has options with Sean Manaea , Mike Fiers and Jesús Luzardo all available .
“ We ’ re excited , ” A ’ s catcher Jonah Heim said Saturday morning .
“ This is what we played all year for , to get to the postseason and make a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A ’ s had every opportunity to win Saturday ’ s opener but could not find a timely hit .
The A ’ s , after leaving five runners on base in the first seven innings , gave up four runs in the eighth inning .
Closer Liam Hendriks allowed two hits and was charged with three runs , two earned , in 1 1/3 innings of work .
His next outing will likely come next week when the A ’ s start the playoffs .
Prior to the three runs he allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed only three runs all season in his first 25.0 innings .
The A ’ s first run came in the fourth inning as Khris Davis ’ sacrifice fly scored Mark Canha from third base .
Otherwise , for the first six innings , the A ’ s were 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position .
They finished the game 1-for-11 and left six runners on base .
the A ’ s stranded a runner on third with no outs in the sixth , as Tommy La Stella led off the inning with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was shaken up on the play , as the relay throw bounced off his head as he slid into third .
La Stella , who was OK , was replaced by Tony Kemp , who remained at third as Ramón Laureano and Grossman both struck out and Matt Olson popped out .
“ I thought our at-bats early in the game were really good .
It was the situational at-bats that cost us today.
” Melvin said .
“ The ones where you don ’ t need a hit to get a run @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did it today.
” Mike Minor , making one last case to be a part of the postseason roster , struck out seven and allowed one run over five-plus innings for the A ’ s .
Minor was charged with a run in the sixth inning as a single to left by J.P. Crawford was bobbled by Canha , as Braden Bishop scored from second base .
Minor could be someone Melvin uses in the second round in a best-of-five series , if the A ’ s advance that far .
• A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in game one loss to Mariners • How the Oakland A ’ s can clinch the American League ’ s No .
2 seed today • Liam Hendriks : Any team that faces Cleveland in playoffs is “ playing for Game 2 ” • Why the A ’ s strong bullpen could be biggest advantage in postseason With no days off between playoff rounds , the A ’ s may need to use a fifth starter if they hope to keep their other starters on regular rest .
If it ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Montas , who has had his own struggles of late .
“ I ’ m just kind of here .
Whatever they need to me to do , ” Minor said when asked about what his duties could be going forward .
“ They haven ’ t talked to me about a role or anything .
I know the other guys are throwing a lot better than me , so , I ’ m assuming that those guys are going to get most of the work .
If they need me for anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Anything ’ s possible , ” Melvin said of possibly using Minor in the bullpen .
“ He ’ s pitched well for us .
”

OAKLAND — It might not matter who the A’s play in the first round of the American League playoffs, or what their seed is in the expanded postseason format.
The A’s will have almost no margin for error — regardless of the opponent — if their offense can’t find a way to ignite between now and next week.
Oakland Athletics' Paul Blackburn (39) is removed during the third inning of the second baseball game of a doubleheader against the Seattle Mariners in Oakland, Calif., Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Jed Jacobsohn)
(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 26: Robbie Grossman #8 of the Oakland Athletics hits a home run against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning of their second game of a double header at RingCentral Coliseum on September 26, 2020 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 26: Tim Lopes #10 of the Seattle Mariners can not catch a home run ball hit by Robbie Grossman #8 of the Oakland Athletics in the first inning of their second game of a double header at RingCentral Coliseum on September 26, 2020 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Seattle Mariners' Tim Lopes, right, hits an RBI-single against the Oakland Athletics during the third inning of the second baseball game of a doubleheader in Oakland, Calif., Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Jed Jacobsohn)
Oakland Athletics' Jake Lamb dives for a single hit by Seattle Mariners' Joseph Odom during the third inning of the second baseball game of a doubleheader in Oakland, Calif., Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Jed Jacobsohn)
Oakland Athletics' Robbie Grossman rounds the bases after hitting a home run against the Seattle Mariners during the first inning of the second baseball game of a doubleheader in Oakland, Calif., Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Jed Jacobsohn)
The A’s were swept by the Seattle Mariners in their doubleheader Saturday at the Coliseum, losing the opener 5-1 after they failed to pick up a clutch hit, and the nightcap 12-3 as starter Paul Blackburn was knocked out of the game in the third inning.
A’s manager Bob Melvin rested a handful of lineup regulars in the second game, although Robbie Grossman hit two solo home runs, his first MLB game with two homers.
Still, the A’s went a combined 1-for-16 with runners in scoring position and left a combined 12 runners on base.
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Oakland has now been limited to three runs or less in six of its last seven games.
That’s no way to enter the postseason, as the A’s will find out Sunday what their seed is for the AL playoffs and who their first round opponent will be.
“I just think it’s baseball,” Grossman said. “We’ve played I don’t know how many games in the last month. We’re at the last game tomorrow and everyone’s just looking forward to getting into the playoffs and getting that second wind.”
The A’s finish the regular season Sunday as their four-game series with the Mariners comes to an end, and will host the best-of-three first round series that starts Tuesday.
Oakland will finish as the second or third seed in the American League, and can still play a variety of opponents, including the Houston Astros and the Cleveland Indians.
In the middle of a pandemic, perhaps it’s a small miracle that MLB was able to complete a 60-game regular season. By the time Sunday’s game ends, the A’s will have played 26 games in 24 days, including four in about 43 hours.
“This has been physically and mentally the hardest season I’ve ever been a part of,” Grossman said. “Not even close. The other day we played three night games in a row (against the Dodgers). It’s the first time it’s happened all year. That doesn’t happen. I’d definitely say this has been the hardest — physically and mentally — season I’ve ever been a part of.”
The A’s coaching staff have been able to do some advance work at looking at possible first round opponents, but the bulk of that work will start Sunday night.
“You try and look and guess and map out the scenarios in the coaching room, and you really can’t,” A’s quality control coach Mark Kotsay said Saturday morning. “So, when we find out opponent, we’ll get to work and definitely vet and do our best as a staff to prepare and get ready for our opponent, who that may be in this three-game series we’re about to get into.”
The A’s will hold a team workout Monday to prepare for their third straight postseason appearance. Manager Bob Melvin has not yet announced who his Game 1 starter will be, although he has options with Sean Manaea, Mike Fiers and Jesús Luzardo all available.
“We’re excited,” A’s catcher Jonah Heim said Saturday morning. “This is what we played all year for, to get to the postseason and make a run at a World Series.”
The A’s had every opportunity to win Saturday’s opener but could not find a timely hit.
The A’s, after leaving five runners on base in the first seven innings, gave up four runs in the eighth inning.
Closer Liam Hendriks allowed two hits and was charged with three runs, two earned, in 1 1/3 innings of work. His next outing will likely come next week when the A’s start the playoffs.
Prior to the three runs he allowed in the eighth inning, Hendriks had allowed only three runs all season in his first 25.0 innings.
The A’s first run came in the fourth inning as Khris Davis’ sacrifice fly scored Mark Canha from third base. Otherwise, for the first six innings, the A’s were 1-for-8 with runners in scoring position. They finished the game 1-for-11 and left six runners on base.
the A’s stranded a runner on third with no outs in the sixth, as Tommy La Stella led off the inning with a triple to right. La Stella was shaken up on the play, as the relay throw bounced off his head as he slid into third.
La Stella, who was OK, was replaced by Tony Kemp, who remained at third as Ramón Laureano and Grossman both struck out and Matt Olson popped out.
“I thought our at-bats early in the game were really good. It was the situational at-bats that cost us today.” Melvin said. “The ones where you don’t need a hit to get a run in. That’s really what did it today.”
Mike Minor, making one last case to be a part of the postseason roster, struck out seven and allowed one run over five-plus innings for the A’s. Minor was charged with a run in the sixth inning as a single to left by J.P. Crawford was bobbled by Canha, as Braden Bishop scored from second base.
Minor could be someone Melvin uses in the second round in a best-of-five series, if the A’s advance that far.
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“I’m just kind of here. Whatever they need to me to do,” Minor said when asked about what his duties could be going forward. “They haven’t talked to me about a role or anything. I know the other guys are throwing a lot better than me, so, I’m assuming that those guys are going to get most of the work. If they need me for anything, I’ll be there.”
“Anything’s possible,” Melvin said of possibly using Minor in the bullpen. “He’s pitched well for us.”