Aloha Ka Punahou 2003.26
Liao tries to surpass both Pennebaker and
Tropics single-season HR leader David Smurf
Liao also a Diamond Glove Award Contender
September 1
RF Liao Kuan's defensive capabilities seem overlooked. But with two errors, 273 chances,
(.993) and an amazing 20 assists in 1166+ innings, he has shown to be more than a "serviceable
right fielder." Crusader's Morris Pennebaker—1998 FL Diamond Glove Award Winner at RF
who just passed Liao in the home run race—has played 1173 innings in right field, has
202 total chances, 4 errors (.980), and 4 assists.
As for home runs, Liao hit 13 in July and August, after hitting 27 the first three months of the
season. Consistent, injury-free performance from him will set a new season mark for home
runs for the Tropics. Liao's 40 (only the third Tropic to reach that figure) is 5 back of David
Smurf's 1998 record mark for Hawaii. Foe 2003 Liao has dropped to one behind Pennebaker.
Gosselaar out--again
Mark Paul Gosselaar (.291 lifetime average) was put on the 60-day disabled list less than six
weeks after coming off of it and adding a much-needed impetus to Hawaii's batting. Although
Gosse hit .108 (4-37) for Hawaii in lieu of a minor league rehab assignment, patience paid off
as he upped his marks to .319 (.421 OBP) as lead off hitter in August.
On the 30th he sprained his wrist and his season has come to an inglorious end. In 2001-
2003, Gosse has averaged 68 games played. The 29-year-old has only two seasons with
500 or more at bats. Celebrity team owner Don Ho has made it clear to GM Alan Hoot that the
Gosse (or his contract) is cooked unless he plays 140+ games in 2004. Even then, Mr Ho and
Mr Hoot will unlikely offer Gosse anything near the $5m he currently makes.
Doyle 'Double-A' Aastrom, who hit .298 in 54 games as Gosse's replacement this season
himself suffered his second injury of the season, making him unavailable for two weeks.