CHICAGO- There was an extra buzz in the air at US Cellular Field. Its the final game of the regular season in SPL's Season 15. The game is between two heated NL East rivals, the Chicago Gray Stockings and the Pittsburgh Polar Bears. But the buzz wasn't because of the rivalry. And it wasn't because of the standings. The Bears had long since captured the division, and were currently 25 games ahead of the Gray Sox. Chicago wasn't even playing many of their regulars, instead choosing to rest them for the playoffs. Pittsburgh subbed out a few key players early for the same reason. The buzz was because this game will probably be the final one for the legendary
Pedro Pascual. He was acquired from Jackson earlier in the season for the express purpose of putting him on a farewell victory lap over the last 39 games. Even though Pascual hasn't officially made the announcement yet, its generally thought that he'll retire at the end of this season. The 38 year old went 0-3 with a walk in what will likely be his final game. His skills have clearly eroded and, although he is on the playoff roster, it would be surprising if he saw any time during the postseason. Its likely that the veteran Victor Pineiro will resume his starting spot at 1B. Pascual will be in the dugout, giving moral support and plenty of hitting tips. On this last day of his regular season career, he was given a standing ovation every time he stepped to the plate. He was being cheered by the same Chicago faithful who had booed him mercilessly during his prime. The same fans whose hearts he seemed to break year, after year, after year as he lead his Pittsburgh squad to another divisional title and relegated the hometown Sox to the Wild Card yet again. Flashbulbs went off all over the stadium every time he stepped to the plate and every time he swung the bat. Pascual was clearly touched by the whole scene. The front office in Pittsburgh has announced that on Opening Day of Season 16, they'll dedicate a bronze statue of Pasucal in front of PNC Park. Its only appropriate. PNC is 'The House that Pascual Built.'
Pedro Pascual Statistics
1st player to achieve the Triple Crown (Season 5)
4th highest single season AVG (.388)
2nd highest career AVG (.342)
1st in career games played (2,278)
1st in career hits (2,888)
1st in career runs (1,688)
1st in career home runs (665)
1st in career doubles (478)
1st in career RBI (1967)
1st in career SLG (.647)
1st in career OBP (1.065)
