Mendoza Hits 300th HR, Now at Crossroads (Hoppy Endings, pre Sim 26) [PP:2055.21]

[neugey]

Edmonton fans and veteran lefty Ricardo “Moo” Mendoza sure went through a lot of emotions this last week. In a weekend contest on the road versus the Talons, Mendoza swiped his 13th base of the season but felt something give as he got up after the slide. The training staff helped him off the field and later diagnosed Mendoza with a sprained knee.

Surprisingly, the upcoming free agent urged manager Alonso Chavez to let him return to action in the home series versus Calgary. Despite the injury, the normally conservative manager gave into the hitter’s wishes. “I’ve still got something special left,” said Mendoza according to his teammates. “This limp don’t mean squat. I got what I need.”

Following an 0 for 4 game on Tuesday, Chavez yet again put Mendoza on his scorecard to start on Wednesday, September 14. In the second inning with two runners on base, he hit a towering home run while the scoreboard flashed “300” to celebrate his 300th career home run. The crowd celebrated with an extended standing ovation, and the fan who caught the ball generously threw the ball back to Mendoza for safe keeping. Appreciative of the fan's generosity, Chavez summoned security to escort the fan and usher him to the dugout to spend the rest of the game sitting alongside Jackrabbits players. Mendoza later drew a walk and scored another run for good measure. Despite a narrow loss to Calgary, it was a fun night that few in attendance will forget any time soon.

Following the game, Chavez and Mendoza spoke to reporters.

“That was a heck of an accomplishment, for Moo to gut that out despite the injury,” explained Chavez. “But the fun is over. I want Moo to rest now and enjoy the big 300. We’re shutting him down now as we want to see him healthy for next year regardless of where his next career move takes him. We wish him great health and fortune.”

Reporters then asked Mendoza if he was considering retirement.

“Not really,” said the career .302 hitter. “I think there might be another chapter remaining, perhaps in AAA or with a GBC team. I’ve made good money during my career. Even made over $30 million one year from the Mad Popes. So now it’s all about being a team guy, having fun. I appreciate the four years given to me in Edmonton, it’s been great here.”