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Ken Griffey Jr. Presents Major League Baseball

Typed out by Gregory Bishop SNS-JR-USA Ken Griffey Jr. PRESENTS MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL(R) INSTRUCTION BOOKLET SUPER NINTENDO(R) ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM ------------------------------------------------------------- WARNING: PLEASE CAREFULLY READ THE CONSUMER INFORMATION AND PRECAUTIONS BOOKLET INCLUDED WITH THIS PRODUCT BEFORE USING YOUR NINTENDO(R) HARDWARE SYSTEM, GAME PAK, OR ACCESSORY. Thank you for selecting the Ken Griffey Jr. Presents Major League Baseball(R) Game Pak for your Super Nintendo Entertainment System(R). Please read this instruction booklet thoroughly to ensure proper handling of your new game. Then save this booklet for future reference. This Game Pak contains a battery backup function to record the progress of the game. WARNING: If the POWER switch is switched ON and OFF repeatedly, the accumulated contents may be deleted. Avoid turning the POWER switch OFF unnecessarily (before saving the game) or data may be lost. Table of Contents The Birth of the National Pastime........3 Major League Baseball--Then & Now........6 Getting Started..........................8 Icon Description........................10 Controller Function Overview............14 Pitcher/Batter Screen...................20 Fielder Screen..........................21 National League Team Histories..........22 American League Team Histories..........29 Biographies.............................36 (TM) and (C) are trademarks of Nintendo of America Inc. (R)1994 Nintendo of America Inc. The Major League Club insignias depicted on this product are trademarks which are exclusively property of the respective Major League Clubs and may not be reproduced without their consent. Major League Baseball is a registered Baseball Properties, inc. ---------------------------------------------------------------- (3) the birth of the National Pastime Baseball in the United States began modestly in the 19th century as a variation of many games that made use of a ball and some sort of bat. Throughout this time, baseball's growth mirrored the growth of the United States. By the turn of the century, the country had boomed through the Industrial Revolution with cities growing at an alarming rate. Likewise, baseball had evolved into a professional sport where spectators paid to watch skilled athletes play a child's game. The popularity of amateur baseball clubs that played between 1845-1865, led to the introduction of the first professional baseball club, the Cincinnati Red Stockings. The Red Stockings' success against the amateur teams provided incentive to create America's first professional baseball league, the National Association of Baseball Players in 1871. Though the new league was not a complete success, it significantly increased baseball's popularity across the land. ---------------------------------------------------------------- (4) WILLIAM AMBROSE HUBERT, President of the Chicago club, and AL SPALDING, a pitcher in Boston, believed that reforms were needed to protect baseball from the corruption and instability that surrounded the National Association. At a meeting in Louisville in 1876, Hubert, Spalding, and representatives of the St. Louis, Cincinnati, and Louisville baseball clubs designed a set of guidelines for a new league, named the National League of Professional Baseball Clubs. The National League contained eight charter clubs, however, between 1876 and 1900, only Chicago and Boston fielded a team each year. During the first two decades of its existence, the National League withstood threats of competition from newer professional leagues. In the 1890s, the National League's dominance weakened after growing to 12 teams, an unmanageable number for that period. Although baseball remained the country's favorite sport, it was gaining a reputation for rowdiness and dirty play that didn't match the era. This prompted Byron Banford "Ban" Johnson and Charles Albert Comiskey to found a league based on strong leadership and good virtue. In the American League, games were not played on Sunday ---------------------------------------------------------------- (5) and women were encouraged to attend ball games. Johnson and Comiskey set a goal to establish a new image for the game. Recognizing that its power had declined partially by managing too many teams, the National League sold four clubs to the new league in 1900. Following this transaction, National League officials still scoffed at the new league when it began play in 1901. However after luring many premier National League players with higher salaries and running a "kinder, gentler" league, American League attendance exceeded National League attendance by 600,000 fans in 1902. Early in 1903, the National League granted the American League status as a Major League. With this, came a consistent scheduling system, player contract regulations, and playing guidelines that the two leagues would share. Another product of this agreement was the World Series, which pitted the American League Champion against the National League Champion in a nine game series (later shortened to seven games) that would determine the World Champion of Baseball. In 1903, 16 franchises competed for the first World Series Championship. Though some of these teams have since moved to new locations or changed their names, the modern era of baseball began in 1903 with the same goal that exists today. ---------------------------------------------------------------- (6) MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL Then 1903 AMERICAN LEAGUE 1903 BOSTON RED SOX CHICAGO WHITE SOX CLEVELAND INDIANS DETROIT TIGERS NEW YORK YANKEES ST. LOUIS BROWNS PHILADELPHIA ATHLETICS WASHINGTON SENATORS NATIONAL LEAGUE 1903 BOSTON BRAVES BROOKLYN DODGERS CHICAGO CUBS CINCINNATI REDS NEW YORK GIANTS PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES PITTSBURGH PIRATES ST. LOUIS CARDINALS ----------------------------------------------------------------- (7) & NOW 1994 [AMERICAN LEAGUE 1994] BOSTON RED SOX CHICAGO WHITE SOX CLEVELAND INDIANS DETROIT TIGERS NEW YORK YANKEES BALTIMORE ORIOLES [*(1954)] OAKLAND ATHLETICS [*Kansas City Athletics (1955-67)] MINNESOTA TWINS [*(1960)] TEXAS RANGERS [*New Washington Senators (1961-71)] CALIFORNIA ANGELS [*Los Angeles Angels (1961-65)] MILWAUKEE BREWERS [*Seattle Pilots (1969)] KANSAS CITY ROYALS [*(1969)] SEATTLE MARINERS [*(1977)] TORONTO BLUE JAYS [*(1977)] [NATIONAL LEAGUE 1994] ATLANTA BRAVES [*Milwaukee (1953-65)] LOS ANGELES DODGERS [*(1958)] CHICAGO CUBS CINCINNATI REDS SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS [*(1958)] PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES PITTSBURGH PIRATES ST. LOUIS CARDINALS HOUSTON ASTROS [*(Houston Colt `45s (1962)] NEW YORK METS [*(1962)] MONTREAL EXPOS [*(1969)] SAN DIEGO PADRES [*(1969)] COLORADO ROCKIES [*(1993)] FLORIDA MARLINS [*(1993)] ----------------------------------------------------------------- (8) GETTING STARTED Play Ball! Insert the Ken Griffey Jr. Presents: Major League Baseball Game Pak into your Super Nintendo Entertainment System and move the POWER switch to the "ON" position. Once the title screen appears, press the START Button to advance to make the game selection menu appear. The game selection menu gives you the option of playing one of four game modes: Exhibition, All-Star Game*, World Series*, or Season. The Exhibition Game allows you to match any two teams in a single contest with nothing but pride riding on the outcome. Use this mode to test your skills against the computer manager or a friend. --------------------------------------------------------------- (9) The All-Star Game is divided into two modes: the Home Run Derby and the All-Star Classic. The Home Run Derby lets you challenge Junior to a power hitting contest. In this game, each player tries to hit the most home runs before making 10 outs. The All-Star Classic features a collection of top players from the American and National Leagues in an exhibition game. The World Series mode is a best-of-seven game series that can be played by 1 or 2 players. The first team to win 4 games, wins the World Series Championship. When beginning season play, you have several options available. You can play a season that consists of 26 games, 78 games, or the traditional 162 game schedule. You may also play under the 1969-93 divisional format (4 Divisions) or the proposed 1994 divisional format (6 Divisions). In the new configuration 4 teams (3 division champions and 1 wildcard team) from each league to qualify for the league playoffs and a possible trip to the World Series. The progress in your Season or World Series is saved automatically after each game. The game can also save and store 1 World Series and one Season for play at a later time. The team selection screen appears when you select the Exhibition, All- Star Game, new Season, or new World Series modes. Use the +Control Pad and the B Button to select a team. the X Button will cancel your selection if you change your mind and want to pick a new team. There are two Today's Game Screens that appear in the game. The first Today's Game Screen appears following the Team Selection Screen. The other Today's Game Screen is a pause screen that appears when you press the START Button during a game. ------------------------------------------------------------------ (10) ICON DESCRIPTIONS Ken Griffey Jr. Presents: Major League Baseball uses an icon system so players can quickly and easily select various game options. [MLB logo] Play Ball! [OPTIONS] This icon allows you to enter the main Options Screen. [1994] The schedule icon accesses a month at a glance calendar that lets you check out upcoming matchups and results of previous contests. You can only use this icon during season play. --------------------------------------------------------------- (11) [Cards icon] This icon lets you view your team's accumulated statistics for the current season or World Series. [STADIUM] During exhibition play, you may select this icon and choose to play inside a different stadium. [LINE UP] This icon lets you make changes to your lineup or defensive positioning. ------------------------------------------------------------------ (12) ICON DESCRIPTIONS [BULLPEN] The bullpen icon accesses the bullpen screen where you can select a different starting pitcher before a game or a relief pitcher during the game. [TEAM EDIT] This icon lets you edit and save new names for all 700 players. [NEWS] During season play, the newspaper icon displays current league standings. ------------------------------------------------------------ (13) [* icon] This icon opens the Play Options screen. On this screen, you can select one of the following four options: Designated Hitter: The game automatically selects the DH when the home team is an American League team. This function lets you decide to use the DH or not. Manage Only: This allows you to make managerial decisions like when to steal and bunt. The computer controls all pitchers, batters, and fielders in this mode. Auto Fielding: This option lets you pitch and hit without fielding. You can use the auto fielder to give a novice player an advantage against an experienced opponent. Background Music: Select this mode to turn off the background music. [EXIT] The exit icon returns you to the previous screen. Pressing the X Button performs the same action on all pregame screens. [SAVE] Select this icon on the lineup, bullpen, and team edit screens to save your data. --------------------------------------------------------------- (14) FUNCTION OVERVIEW [This page is a big pic of the SNES controller, and I trust you know what that looks like.] ---------------------------------------------------------------- (15) Players Offense [B] Swing [Y] Bunt [X] Lead Off Base [X] Steal [L and R] Select Runner View [Control Pad and A] Run to Previous Base [Control Pad and B] Run to Next Base [right 1st Base] [up 2nd Base] [left 3rd Base] [down Home Plate] ---------------------------------------------------------------- (16) Players Pitching [Control Pad and B] Pitch Ball [A] Pickoff Attempt [down Fast Ball] [left Curve Left] [right Curve Right] [up Change Up] --------------------------------------------------------------- (18) Players Defense [Control Pad and B] Throw Ball [B] Dive [B] Jump [B (2x)] Climb Outfield Wall [Control Pad and A] Run to Base [right 1st Base] [up 2nd Base] [left 3rd Base] [down Home Plate] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (18) Menu Screens Roster [left] Select Player [B] Remove New Player/Pitcher (after selecting name) [B] Insert New Player/Pitcher (after selecting name) ---------------------------------------------------------------- (19) Manager Mode Coach [A] Hit and Run (offense) [X] Steal (offense) [Y] Bunt (offense) [L and R] Select Runner (offense) [X] Pitch Out (defense) [Y] Bean Ball (defense) [START] Pinch Hitter/Relief Pitcher -------------------------------------------------------------- (20) PITCHER/BATTER The pitcher/batter screen is the primary game screen and where the cat and mouse game between the pitcher and the batter occurs. While the pitcher tries to keep the batter off balance with a variety of pitches, the batter looks for a good pitch to drive into the gap or over the fence. This confrontation sometimes takes place as many as 150 times in an actual Major League game. During game play, the pitcher/batter screen appears until the batter hits the ball or the pitcher steps off the mound to pick off a base runner. When either of these actions occur, the fielder screen will appear. Refer to page 15-16 for pitching and batting controller functions. The camera box in the upper right corner helps you see the base runners. Refer to page 15 for base runner controller functions. -------------------------------------------------------------- (21) FIELD The field screen is where all fielding and base running takes place. When fielding fly balls, the radar screen in the lower right corner will display the location where the ball will land (X) and the location of the nearest fielder (blue dot). The white dot on the radar screen indicates the current location of the ball. On ground balls, the ball and the fielder are the only markers that appear on the radar. On the field screen, a bull's-eye will appear at the same location as the "X" on the radar. This target acts like a magnet to help you catch fly balls. To catch a fly ball, move your fielder close to the "X" on the radar and release the +Control Pad. If the character is close enough to the target, he'll automatically move to the spot and camp under the ball before catching it. Since the "X" and bull's-eye don't appear on ground balls or short line drives into the outfield, you must line up the outfielder (blue dot) with the ball (white dot) so the player can field the ball cleanly. You don't need to use the radar for ground balls in the infield since the fielder and the ball are usually visible on the screen at the same time. Also, on hot grounders through the infield, the computer will automatically line up your outfielder while you're controlling the infielder. Keep this in mind so you don't accidentally overrun ground balls in the outfield. This game recognizes the Infield Fly Rule. The ruling occurs when the batter hits a fly ball in the infield with runners on first and second base. This rule prevents the infielder from intentionally dropping the ball and turning a quick double play. --------------------------------------------------------------- (22) NATIONAL LEAGUE ATLANTA BRAVES (Boston 1876-52, Milwaukee 1953-1965, Atlanta 1966-) World Championships (since 1903): 1914, 57 National League Championships: 1877, 78, 83, 91, 92, 93, 97, 98, 1914, 57, 58, 91, 92 National League Division Championships (since 1969): 1969, 82, 91, 92, 93 For baseball fans across the country, the 1993 Brave season appeared to be scripted in Hollywood rather than Atlanta. Nearing the All-Star break, the Braves trailed the Giants by 8 games and were surrounded by talk regarding the team's failure to live up to high preseason expectations. The outlook didn't brighten until July 20, the day `92 home run champ, Fred McGriff was acquired from San Diego. With the Giants still playing outstanding baseball, the Braves methodically stormed to a 2nd half record of 54-19 overtaking the Giants on the last day of the season. Though the Braves' finish of `93 was the stuff of legends, it was not the best in team history. In 1914, the Boston Braves compiled an incredible 68-19 record from July 4 to steal the pennant from the New York Giants, the National League powerhouse of that time period. Heading into `94, the Braves reload with the best starting pitching staff in baseball, headed up by Cy Young Award winners, Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine. CHICAGO CUBS (1876-) World Championships (since 1903): 1907, 08 National League Championships: 1876, 80, 81, 82, 85, 86, 1906, 07, 08, 10, 18, 29, 32, 35, 38, 45 National League Division Championships (since 1969): 1984, 89 Though the Cubs haven't been to the World Series since 1945, there isn't a team in the Major Leagues with fans as devoted as the ones who flock to Wrigley Field. Prior to the 1945 World Series, the Cubs appeared in a respectable 10 World Series, however they lost 8 consecutive Series after winning in 1907-08. For even the most loyal Cub fan, the 1969 season was a difficult one to endure. Throughout the first half of the 1969 season, the Cubs sat atop the Eastern Division and, by mid-August, their lead had grown to 8 1/2 games. As the summer came to a close, the Cubs began to fight two foes: pressure inflicted on themselves and the Miracle Mets, a lowly expansion team that finished 9th or 10th in each of their previous 7 seasons. The Mets made an incredible charge overtaking the Cubs eventually winning the division by 8 games. The significance of this event is that the Cub fans stuck by their team following the flop. Today, 25 years later, fans in Chicago can buy "Forgiven but Not Forgotten" shirts referring to the summer of `69. -------------------------------------------------------------- (23) NATIONAL LEAGUE CINCINNATI REDS (1869-) World Championships (since 1903): 1919, 1940, 1975, 1976, 1990 National League Championships: 1919, 1939, 1940, 1961, 1970, 1972, 1975, 1976, 1990 National League Division Championships (since 1969): 1970, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1976, 1979, 1990 In addition to being the first professional baseball team, the Cincinnati Redlegs have been involved in many historical events that are commonplace today. These "firsts" include the first switch-hitter to appear in a National League contest (1870), the first National League home run (1876), the first night game (1935), and the first televised game (1939). Later the Big Red Machine of the `70s became the top N.L. team of the decade by winning 6 division championships and appearing in 4 World Series between `70-79. This team is still regarded as one of the best ever. After a successful 1990 campaign, the Reds entered the World Series as a big underdog to the powerful Athletics, who had demolished the Giants in the `89 Fall Classic. Though the underdog role was unfamiliar to the Big Red Machine of the `70s, the 1990 Reds seemed to thrive on it and used great pitching and scrappy play to sweep the A's in 4 games. COLORADO ROCKIES (1993-) World Championships: None National League Championships: None National League Division Championships: None The Rockies had what can be described as a very successful inaugural campaign in the National League. They won 3 more games than their expansion cousins, the Florida Marlins and set a Major League Baseball attendance record with over 4 million fans passing through the Mile High Stadium turnstiles. In 1995, the Rockies will begin play in a new park in Denver. --------------------------------------------------------------- (24) NATIONAL LEAGUE FLORIDA MARLINS (1993-) World Championships: None National League Championships: None National League Division Championships: None The expansion Marlins begin their second season in 1994. The Marlins early pursuit of top players through free agency and trades should please fans in South Florida, and with a roster comprised of experienced veterans and promising young players, the Marlins look to continue building toward success in the near future. HOUSTON ASTROS (Houston Colt 45s 1962-1965, Houston Astros 1966-) World Championships: None National League Championships: None National League Division Championships (since 1969): 1980, 86 The Astros came into the National League at the same time as the Mets, and while they never were as bad as the worst Met teams, they never achieved the success of the great Met teams either. Historically, the Colts-Astros have had stronger pitching than hitting. This was true in 1962 and is still true today. When the Astros won their two division championships, they were led by the great pitching of J.R. Richard, Joe Niekro, Nolan Ryan, and Mike Scott. Today, the Astros are armed with one of the best starting rotations in the National League and look to former Phillie closer Mitch Williams to bolster the bullpen. On the offensive side of the plate, the Astros are looking for young stars like Jeff Bagwell, Craig Biggio, and Luis Gonzalez to return and lead the team to postseason play in the `90s. ----------------------------------------------------------------- (25) NATIONAL LEAGUE LOS ANGELES DODGERS (Brooklyn Dodgers 1890-1957, Los Angeles Dodgers 1958-) World Championships (since 1903): 1955, 59, 63, 65, 81, 88 National League Championships: 1890, 99, 1900, 16, 20, 41, 47, 49, 52, 53, 55, 56, 59, 63, 65, 66, 77, 78, 81, 88 National League Division Championships (since 1969): 1974, 77, 78, 81, 83, 85, 88 While the Giants/Dodgers rivalry has certainly been heated over the years, Dodger fans from Brooklyn to Los Angeles must shudder at the thought of playing the Yankees in the World Series. The Dodgers were arguably the best N.L. team during the `50s, appearing in the World Series 5 times during the decade and 10 times between 1947-66. However, the Dodgers only won 2 World Championships during the `50s and held a 1-6 record against the Yankees in 7 Bronx/Brooklyn "Subway Series" matchups. It looked like old times in 1977 and 1978 when the Bombers and the Los Angeles Dodgers clashed in consecutive years with both championships going to the Yanks. In 1981, the Dodgers won only their third Series against the Yankees in 11 tries. Ironically, the Yankees won more championships, but became the team that fans loved to hate while the Dodgers became one of the game's most popular teams. MONTREAL EXPOS (1969-) World Championships: None National League Championships: None National League Division Championships: 1981 During most of the `70s, the Expos were known across Canada as the national team. In the United States, the Expos, who for many years wore hats that resembled multi-colored beanies, were more of a curiosity that seemed out of place in tradition-rich National League. Of course, traditional uniforms were becoming less common in the `70s as buttons and belts were replaced by pullovers and elastic waistbands. The Expo image improved as they began to shake the customary expansion era blues. In the late `70s the Expos compiled the best record in the National League between 1979-1982, including a divisional championship in 1981, and have enjoyed 12 winning seasons since 1979. Today, the Expos are building off 2 consecutive 2nd place finishes and setting their sights on higher goals. ---------------------------------------------------------------- 26) NATIONAL LEAGUE NEW YORK METS (1962-) World Championships: 1969, 86 National League Championships: 1969, 73, 86 National League Division Championships (since 1969): 1969, 73, 86, 88 The Mets' story can be described simply as the best of times and the worst of times. Born through expansion in 1962, the Mets were awful during the Kennedy and Johnson administrations. From 1962-68, they finished 9th or 10th each season averaging a woeful 56 wins each season. The outlook became very rosy in 1969. Not only did the Mets finish over .500 that season, but they won 100 games and stormed past the Cubs to win the division championship by 8 games. The Miracle Mets' incredible run continued in the `69 Series as they topped the heavily favored Orioles in 5 games. Ironically, Davey Johnson, who made the final out in the `69 Series for the Orioles, returned to manage the Mets in the `80s as the team returned to the top of the National League after a decade of mediocrity. During Johnson's tenure, the Mets won 2 division championships and 1 World Championship in 7 seasons and were favored nearly every year to play in the World Series; incredible pressure for any team, but even tougher in New York. In 1993, the Mets reclaimed their role as baseball's worst team. PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES (1883-) World Championships (since 1903): 1980 National League Championships: 1915, 50, 80, 83, 93 National League Division Championships (since 1969): 1976, 77, 78, 80, 83, 93 Of the eight original National League teams, the Philadelphia Phillies have gloomiest history. Recent successes, including a World Championship in 1980 and three World Series appearances and six division championships since 1976, have blurred the perception of futility surrounding the Phillies. But, the Phillies once endured 29 second division (5th, 6th, 7th, or 8th place) finishes in a 30 year stretch and a 65 year period without a World Series win. From 1901- 1960, the Phillies won 3893 games and dropped 5130 games with only 15 winning seasons, worst of the 8 National League teams in the pre- expansion era. Even when they were on top, the Phillies found a way to lose. For example, on September 21, 1964, the Phillies held a 6 1/2 game lead over the Cardinals. After losing 10 of their last 12 games, the Phillies found themselves in 2nd place on the last day of the season. The outlook was much brighter a decade later when led by Mike Schmidt, the Phillies of the late `70s and early `80s became one of the top teams in the National League. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (27) NATIONAL LEAGUE PITTSBURGH PIRATES (1900-) World Championships (since 1903): 1909, 25, 60, 71, 79 National League Championships: 1901, 02, 03, 09, 25, 27, 60, 71, 79 National League Division Championships (since 1969): 1970, 71, 72, 74, 75, 79, 90, 91, 92 Though they didn't get the attention the Reds enjoyed in the `70s, the Pirates of the Disco Decade were nearly as talented. During the `70s, the Pirates, Dodgers, Phillies, and Reds won 18 of 20 division championships. Though the Pirates finished in 2nd place to the Phillies from 1976-78, the Bucs were the stronger team winning 6 division championships and 2 World Championships from 1971-79. Though the `70s Pirates enjoyed success over a longer period of time, the 1960 Pirates had the most memorable finish to a season. After winning the 1960 N.L. pennant by 7 games, the Pirates were still expected to be steamrolled by the Yankees, who were appearing in their 26th Series since 1921. In Game 7, the Bucs trailed 7-4 in the 8th inning but scored 5 runs to take a 2 run lead. The Yanks followed with 2 runs to tie the score at 9. But, Bill Mazeroski, the Pirates 2nd baseman, led off the bottom of the 9th and slammed the 2nd pitch over the left field wall to break the tie and end one of the best World Series ever. ST. LOUIS CARDINALS (1900-) World Championships (since 1903): 1926, 31, 34, 42, 44, 46, 64, 67, 82 National League Championships: 1926, 28, 30, 31, 34, 42, 43, 44, 46, 64, 67, 68, 82, 85, 87 National League Division Championships (since 1969): 1982, 1985, 1987 If Reggie Jackson is Mr. October, then the St. Louis Cardinals are the National League's Boys of October with 9 World Championships in 15 World Series appearances. This is particularly impressive since many of the Cardinal titles came during the Yankees' incredible World Series dominance from 1927-62. Also, there are other N.L. teams with more league pennants, but the Redbirds have won more World Championships than any other National League team. Factoring the Cardinals' three National League Championship Series triumphs in with their World Series victories increases the team's postseason series win percentage to an impressive 67%. Over the years, the Cardinals have been led by many current and future hall-of-famers including Dizzy and Daffy Dean in the `30s, Stan Musial in the `40s and `50s, Bob Gibson in the `60s, Lou Brock in the `70s, and Ozzie Smith in the `80s. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (28) NATIONAL LEAGUE SAN DIEGO PADRES (1969-) World Championships: None National League Championships: 1984 National League Division Championships: 1984 After joining the National League in 1969, the Padres experienced 10 seasons of mediocrity before making a move toward the top of the division with the help of several key player acquisitions. In 1984, the Padres won their only division championship with Dick Williams at the helm. The Padres plan was to sign players who had experienced winning with other clubs. Williams, a former Brooklyn Dodger, knew a lot about winning as well. In 1967, Williams won an A.L. pennant with the Red Sox. Williams also managed the A's during their championship years in the early `70s. The 1984 N.L. Championship Series may be one of the most interesting matchups in recent memory with the expansion Padres and Cubs, a team that hadn't experienced postseason play in nearly 40 years. Led by NLCS MVP Steve Garvey, the Padres topped the Cubs in 5 games and prepared for the awesome Tigers, who won 104 games during the season. Although the Tigers easily handled the Padres in the World Series, the experience of playing in the fall classic gave the Padres the lasting respectability that surrounds a winning franchise. SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS (New York Giants 1883-1957, San Francisco Giants 1958-) World Championships (since 1903): 1905, 21, 22, 33, 54 National League Championships: 1888, 89, 1904, 05, 11, 12, 13, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, 33, 36, 37, 51, 54, 62, 89 National League Division Championships (since 1969): 1971, 87, 89 The New York Giants were arguably the best team in the National League during the 30 years following the merger in 1903. In later years, fireside stories about the Giants often included their rivals from Brooklyn. One of the most famous Giant/Dodger confrontations occurred in 1951 when the Giants rallied from 13 games behind on August 11 to catch Brooklyn and force a playoff. In the deciding game of the three game playoff, Bobby Thomson came to the plate in the 9th with two men on base and the Giants trailing 4-2. Thomson heroic homer is still known as the "Shot Heard `Round the World" thanks to the emotional radio call by Russ Hodges, the Giants' announcer, who could only manage to repeat that famous phrase "THE GIANTS WIN THE PENNANT! THE GIANTS WIN THE PENNANT!" Since 1951, the Giants and Dodgers have clashed in several season ending confrontations including 1993 when the Dodgers beat the Giants on the season's last day to keep the Giants out of a possible playoff against the Braves. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (29) AMERICAN LEAGUE BALTIMORE ORIOLES (St. Louis Browns 1901-53, Baltimore Orioles, 1954-) World Championships: 1966, 70, 83 American League Championships: 1944, 66, 69, 70, 71, 79, 83 American League Division Championships (since 1969): 1969, 70, 71, 73, 74, 79, 83 It's a little known fact that the Baltimore Orioles were once the Milwaukee Brewers--the original Brewers, that is. A charter member of the American League in 1901, the team moved from Milwaukee to St. Louis and changed its name to the Browns prior to the 1902 season. The purpose of the move was to give the new American League a team in St. Louis, the fourth largest city in the nation at the time. The Browns never enjoyed the popularity of their cross-town rivals, the Cardinals. Of course, bad play didn't help. From 1901-1953, the Browns winning percentage was a anemic .433 with only one World Series appearance, which the Browns lost to the Cardinals. As bad as the Browns were, the Orioles of Baltimore have been absolutely stellar by comparison. Since 1969, the Orioles have the best winning percentage in baseball including the incredible 1969-71 O's that averaged 106 wins per season during that 3-year span. BOSTON RED SOX (1901-) World Championships: 1903, 12, 15, 16, 18 American League Championships: 1903, 04, 12, 15, 16, 18, 46, 67, 75, 86 American League Division Championships (since 1969): 1975, 86, 88, 90 Known as one of the best sports towns in the country, Boston and its people have enjoyed a very special love affair with their Red Sox. Fans from Beantown have also endured a great deal of frustration from a team that since 1918 has often challenged and occasionally won the American League pennant without bringing home a World Championship. Cynical followers have blamed the "Curse of the Bambino" for the drought. The curse refers to the fateful December day in 1919 when the Red Sox sold Babe Ruth to their arch-rivals, the Yankees. Prior to the sale, the Red Sox were arguably the best team in baseball with 5 World Series championships between 1903-18. Conversely, the sale of the greatest player of all time helped transform the Yankees, a mediocre team without a World Series appearance, into the most dominant team in professional sports. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (30) AMERICAN LEAGUE CALIFORNIA ANGELS (Los Angeles Angels 1961-1965, California Angels 1966-) World Championships: None American League Championships: None American League Division Championships (since 1969): 1979, 82, 86 Responding to the Dodgers' immediate fan appeal in Los Angeles, the American League expanded in 1961, adding their own team in L.A. Walter O'Malley, the Dodgers' owner, wasn't pleased about the prospect of another team moving into his recently chartered territory and would only agree to deal if the Angels leased the use of Dodger Stadium for four seasons. Though the team played well for an expansion team during those early years, the Angels were never able to overshadow the mystique of the Dodgers in the Los Angeles area. In 1966, the Angels moved into Anaheim Stadium following the expiration of the Dodger Stadium lease and changed their name. Today, the Angels are using a new philosophy toward winning emphasizing youth rather than the use of older players. Traditionally, the Angels have ignored their farm system and tried to win using veteran who paid their dues with other clubs. While this strategy landed the Angels in post-season three times, it didn't help them win any American League or World Championship. CHICAGO WHITE SOX (1900-) World Championships: 1906, 17 American League Championships: 1900, 01, 06, 17, 19, 59 American League Division Championships (since 1969): 1983, 93 For nearly 100 years, the White Sox have been Chicago's southside team. Sharing the Windy City's fan base with the Cubs, who play on the North side of town. During this time, the White Sox have fielded some great teams including the Shoeless Joe Jackson led teams of the 1910s and the Go-Go Sox of the 1950s, which was one of only two American League teams other than the Yankees to appear in the World Series from 1949-60. Led by one of the best young pitching staffs in baseball, the White Sox won a division championship, in 1993, and experienced post season play for only the 2nd time since 1959. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (31) AMERICAN LEAGUE CLEVELAND INDIANS (1901-) World Championships: 1920, 48 American League Championships: 1920, 48, 54 American League Division Championships (since 1969): None Though the Indians have become the butt of many jokes due to their lack of postseason play in the last four decades, the Tribe of the late `40s and early `50s ranks among the best in American League history. The Indian teams of the post-World War II era averaged 94 wins each season between 1948 and 1956, and although they won a World Championship in 1948, the Indian team that lost the 1954 World Series was actually better, winning an amazing 111 games, which was 8 more wins that the 2nd place Yankees. In fact, the 103 wins by the Yankees in 1954 marked the highest total amassed by any of Casey Stengel's dominant Yankee teams of the 50s. Today, there is a new feeling of enthusiasm in Cleveland. With the opening of a new stadium in 1994 and several young All-Stars on their roster, the Indians are counting on re-kindling the glory of their past. DETROIT TIGERS (1901) World Championships: 1935, 45, 68, 84 American League Championships: 1907, 08, 09, 34, 35, 40, 45, 68, 84 American League Division Championships (since 1969): 1972, 84, 87 The most prominent Tiger teams from a historical perspective come from 4 different eras. The first of the great Motown teams were led by Ty Cobb, one of the most competitive and talented players of all time. The teams of the 1930s featured the powerful Hank Greenberg, who clouted 58 home runs in 1938, still #3 on the all time list. The 1968 World Series featured a pair of pitchers (Detroit's Denny McLain 31-6, 1.96 ERA and St. Louis' Bob Gibson 22-9, 1.12 ERA) who posted seasons that are still regarded as being among the most dominating of all time. Led by Jack Morris, Kirk Gibson, and Lance Parrish, the 1984 Motor City Kitties jumped out to a 35-5 record to start the season and never looked back as they overpowered opponents and finished with a 104-58 record and a World Series victory over the Padres. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (32) AMERICAN LEAGUE KANSAS CITY ROYALS (1969-) World Championships: 1985 American League Championships: 1980, 85 American League Division Championships: 1976, 77, 78, 80, 84, 85 The Royals are an example of the perfect expansion team. The team has never finished in last place and won their first division championship in their 7th season. By building a strong minor league system, the Royals were able to call up extremely talented young players like George Brett, Frank White, and Hal McRae and let the players mature together on the field. This set up a reload, not rebuild formula for success in Kansas City. In fact, if it weren't for the Oakland A's of the early `70s and the New York Yankees of the late `70s, the Royals may have received more recognition as one of the best teams of the decade. The Royals, however, did get to the World Series twice in the `80s, winning the Big Show in 1985 over the Cardinals in a dramatic I-70 series. That season reaffirmed the Royal tradition when 21-year old Bret Saberhagen won 20 games, the Cy Young award, and World Series MVP award. Recently, the Royals haven't won as many games, but the wheels haven't completely fallen off either as the young Royals of the `90s are poised to make another run to the top. MILWAUKEE BREWERS (1969-) World Championships: None American League Championships: 1982 American League Division Championships: 1982 After joining the American League in 1969 as the Seattle Pilots, the team changed its name and moved to the midwest in 1970. The Brewers, who celebrate their 25th season in Milwaukee in 1994, have had several fine teams and many outstanding players throughout the last quarter century. Led by managers George Bamberger and Harvey Kuenn, the power- hitting Brewers of the late `70s and early `80s became affectionately known as "Bambi's Bombers" and "Harvey's Wall Bangers". To date, the 1982 season is remembered as the Brewers shining moment. Future Hall of Famers Robin Yount and Paul Molitor led the charge as the Brew Crew topped the Orioles on the last day of the season to capture their first divisional championship. In the American League Championship Series, the Brewers overcame a 0-2 deficit to top the California Angels and win a trip to the World Series against the St. Louis Cardinals. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (33) AMERICAN LEAGUE MINNESOTA TWINS (Washington Senators 1901-1960, Minnesota Twins 1961-) World Championships: 1924, 87, 91 American League Championships: 1924, 25, 33, 65, 87, 91 American League Division Championships (since 1969): 1969, 70, 87, 91 Of the 8 American League teams that started play in 1901, the Senators/ Twins have the fewest World Series appearances. In fact, for years a popular phrase in Washington was "first in war, first in peace, last in the American League". The Senators didn't always have the best teams, but they did have the game's best and most popular pitcher in Walter Johnson. The "Big Train" was the game's first power pitcher, compiling 3508 strikeouts in an era lacking in the free swingers that many pitchers feast on today. Following 60 seasons of mediocre baseball in Washington, the Senators moved to Minnesota and became the Twins. Though the Twins won a pennant in 1965 and division championships in 1969 and 1970, they usually fielded teams that were competitive, but unable to challenge for the pennant. This was demonstrated by 9 consecutive 3th or 4th place finishes between 1972-80. Recently, the Twins have enjoyed the most success in franchise history winning two World Championships since 1987. NEW YORK YANKEES (1903) World Championships: 1923, 27, 28, 32, 36, 37, 38, 39, 41, 43, 47, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 56, 58, 61, 62, 77, 78 American League Championships: 1921, 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 32, 36, 37, 38, 39, 41, 42, 43, 47, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 55, 56, 57, 58, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 76, 77, 78, 81 American League Division Championships (since 1969): 1976, 77, 78, 80, 81 If the number of championships is your yardstick for success, then the Yankees are the most dominant Major League Baseball team of all time. In addition to collecting 33 World Series Championships, Yankee rosters have featured Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio, and Mickey Mantle, four unique players who transcended baseball stardom to become icons of 20th Century American culture. In fact, Yankee lore reads like a Who's Who of Baseball with 28 former pin-stripers already elected to the baseball hall of fame. Though the 1927 Yankees, led by Ruth and Gehrig, are often regarded as the best team of all time, the Bronx Bombers of the 1950s, led by the legendary Casey Stengal, were more dominant, winning 5 consecutive World Championships from 1949-1953 and appearing in 10 World Series between 1949-60. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (34) AMERICAN LEAGUE OAKLAND ATHLETICS (Philadelphia 1901-1954, Kansas City (1955-1967, Oakland 1968-) World Championships: 1910, 11, 13, 29, 30, 72, 73, 74, 89 American League Championships: 1902, 05, 10, 11, 13, 14, 29, 30, 31, 72, 73, 74, 88, 89, 90 American League Division Championships (since 1969): 1971, 72, 73, 74, 75, 81, 88, 89, 90, 92 After passing through Kansas City on their way from Philadelphia, the Athletics settled in Oakland and established a personality and style of play that has made them one of the most successful franchises in the last 25 years. But, winning hasn't always been associated with the A's. While they won 5 championships during Connie Mack's 50 year tenure as manager, his teams finished 7th or 8th place in the eight team American League 20 times. After moving to Kansas City in 1955, the Athletics' struggle continued to the point where the team moved to Oakland in 1968, after 13 consecutive 2nd division seasons in K.C. After the move, the A's quickly picked up a winning tradition. Led by a cast of characters that included Reggie Jackson, Catfish Hunter, and Rollie Fingers, the A's won five consecutive division titles from 1971- 75 and three consecutive World Championships from 1972-74. After rebuilding the team, the A's returned to form in the late `80s and appeared in three straight World Series from 1988-1990. SEATTLE MARINERS (1977) World Championships: None American League Championships: None American League Division Championships: None Since entering the league in 1977, the history of the Seattle Mariners has consisted of more downs that ups. In fact, early Mariner highlights often centered around strange give-aways like "Funny Nose Glasses Night" more than great play on the field. But, in recent years, the attitude in Seattle has changed with a greater emphasis on winning. This has been demonstrated by the hiring of a proven manager (Lou Piniella) who is still in the prime of his managing career and the active pursuit of top players through trades and free agency. After 14 seasons of sub-.500% baseball, the Mariners finished over .500 in 1991 and again in 1993 and now strike fear in opponents with Randy Johnson's power pitching, Jay Buhner's cannon arm, and Ken Griffey Jr.'s exciting all-around play. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (35) AMERICAN LEAGUE TEXAS RANGERS (Washington Senators 1961-1971, Texas Rangers 1972-) World Championships: None American League Championships: None American League Division Championships (since 1969): None Born through expansion to pacify Washington citizens following the original Senators' move to the Twin Cities, the new Senators never took flight enduring 10 losing seasons before moving to Arlington, Texas in 1972. Like the Seattle Mariners in the 1980s, the Rangers struggled to shake their expansion image of the 1970s. Throughout the `70s, the Rangers made a habit of acquiring veterans who were past their prime. Many of these transactions backfired leaving the Rangers with a depleted farm system and a high payroll. Although the Rangers haven't won a division championship since moving to Texas, many experts consider the Rangers to be the team of the `90s with players like 24- year old Juan Gonzalez, who has already won 2 home run titles and Will Clark, a perennial all-star during his 8 seasons with the Giants. TORONTO BLUE JAYS (1977) World Championships: 1992, 93 American League Championships: 1992, 93 American League Division Championships (since 1969): 1985, 89, 91, 92, 93 Joining the Seattle Mariners as an expansion team in 1977, the Toronto Blue Jays didn't exactly set the league on fire during the team's first few years. In fact, it took the Blue Jays six seasons to finish higher than last place in their division. However, behind a philosophy centered around nurturing bright, young talent that would grow within the organization, the Blue Jays quickly became a powerful force in the American League in the mid-1980s and have not finished lower than 3rd place since 1987. Most recently, the Blue Jays became the first team to win back-to-back World Series titles since the 1977-78 Yankees. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (36) BIOGRAPHIES Seattle Mariners KEN GRIFFEY JR. As a kid, Ken Griffey Jr., the son of a Major Leaguer, was fortunate to have the opportunity to shag fly balls and take batting practice with the game's best players. This experience paved the way for a smooth and early beginning of his own big league career. In 1989, at age 19, Junior's lively bat and dazzling defense helped him make the Mariner opening day lineup. In his Major League debut, he showed the poise of a veteran doubling off Oakland ace Dave Stewart in his first at bat. Throughout his first season, Ken's stellar defense achievements drew immediate comparisons to the original Kid, Willie Mays. In 1990, Junior and his father, Ken Sr., made Major League history as the first father and son to play together on the same team. Later that season, the Griffey duo smashed back-to-back home runs in the first inning of a game against the California Angels. Following the 1990 season, Junior won his first Gold Glove to become the youngest American League player to receive that honor. Not satisfied with being described as a potential star, Ken stepped forward in a big way in 1991 and 1992. In 1991, the 21-year old set a team record by hitting .327 and in 1992, Junior led the Mariners with 27 homers. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (37) He also drove in 203 runs during that two season stretch and was named the MVP of the 1992 All-Star Game in San Diego. The 1993 season was the year that transformed Griffey Jr. from a star on the horizon to a legitimate League MVP candidate. En route to clouting a career high 45 home runs (2nd highest in Major League Baseball), Junior tied a MLB record by hitting at least one home run in eight consecutive games. Now five years into an already brilliant career, many baseball experts consider Ken Griffey Jr. to be the most dynamic and talented player in the game. Steve Palermo #14 The voice you hear in Ken Griffey Jr. Presents: Major League Baseball belongs to American League Umpire Steve Palermo. Since breaking into the league in 1977, Steve has received many accolades and been involved in hundreds of big games. Throughout his career, Steve has appeared in 5 American League Championship Series (1980, 1981, 1982, 1984, 1989), 1 All-Star Game (1986), and 1 World Series (1983). Other historical events include the 1978 playoff between the Red Sox and the Yankees featuring Bucky Dent's unlikely, but timely, home run and working home plate during Dave Righetti's no-hitter in 1983. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (38) BIBLIOGRAPHY Bjarkman, Peter C., Encyclopedia of Major League Baseball: National League, New York: Carroll and Graf, 1991 Bjarkman, Peter C., Encyclopedia of Major League Baseball: American League, New York: Carroll and Graf, 1991 Zoss, Joel and John S. Bowman, The History of Major League Baseball, New York: Brompton Books, 1992 Photo Credits [Trust me, they did a fine job.] Photographs used on page 4 are courtesy of the National Baseball Library, Cooperstown, New York. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (39) Memo ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (40) Memo ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (41) Memo ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (42) WARNING It is a serious crime to copy video games. 18 USC 2319 Nintendo games are strictly protected by copyright rights worldwide. Back-up copies are not authorized and are not necessary to protect your Nintendo Game Pak. Please destroy any illegal copies that may come into your possession. Violators will be prosecuted. If your Game Pak ceases to operate and it is not a copy and your Nintendo Control Deck has no alteration or backup device attached to it. please call the Nintendo Consumer Assistance Hotline at 1-800-255- 3700 (U.S. and Canada) or your local authorized Nintendo distributor for assistance. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- (It's outta here!) WARRANTY AND SERVICE INFORMATION ----------------------------------------------------------------------- NEED HELP WITH INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE, OR SERVICE? CALL 1-800-255-3700. Nintendo(R) Nintendo of America Inc. P.O. Box 957, Redmond, WA 98073-0957 U.S.A. PRINTED IN JAPAN ----------------------------------------------------------------------- [Ken Griffey Jr. Presents: Major League Baseball included a Collector Baseball Card that regurgitated some of the "Biography" portion of the manual. Additionally, it featured some vital stats: KEN GRIFFEY JR. Born: Donora, PA 11/21/69 Bats: Left Height 6' 3" Throws: Left Weight: 205 lbs. 1993 STATS AVG..309 H.....180 RBI..109 G....156 2B.....38 SB....17 AB...582 3B......3 R....113 HR.....45 SNS-JR-USA

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