Tag: That's Amaury News and Commentary

Rafael Devers

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: What the Giants need for next Season, if there is a Season

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San Francisco Giants Rafael Devers (16) might not get picked up by a club before the trade deadline because of his huge remaining six years left on his contract which pays an average of $28 million per year. (AP News photo)

What the Giants need for next Season, if there is a Season

That’s Amaury News and Commentary

By Amaury Pi-González

SAN FRANCISCO–Baseball is headed to a lockout by the baseball owners. Some say the players’ only leverage is to strike, maybe during this postseason. However, MLB players cannot strike because the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) remains in effect through December 1, 2026, which means labor peace is totally guaranteed during the playoffs.

The playoffs are during October and sometimes until November, with some World Series taking place that late in the year, but nobody plays in December. Players cannot strike. But owners have been telling everybody in the media they are ready to lock out the players. It would be inconceivable for the 2027 season as a whole not to be played; however, there is also a good chance they will not play 162 games. The only question is how long this lockout will last.

What about the Giants? What are they going to do to improve the product on the field? That is their biggest problem. Oracle Park is one of the most beautiful sports facilities in the world; fans are happy and enjoy taking their families and friends to watch the Giants play. This season has not been fun. The Giants will finish in either last or penultimate place this year, and that was not what Posey and the front office had in mind.  Next week and a half could give us an idea of what they are thinking.

1-The Big Deal.  Rafael Devers is making $27 million this season and is owed $28.5 million every year from 2027 through 2033. If the Giants trade him, somebody will have to pay him. Devers is not a failure; it is just that his production is close to average levels in the league and that 10-year $313.5 million total commitment is tough for any other baseball club to absorb.  Can they trade him? And who needs Devers that badly to make the difference and win? There are only a few teams that would take Devers, not because of his play, but because of the money involved there.

2-Another Big Deal.  Willy Adames with a huge contract and a full no-trade clause; Adames has underperformed at the plate. Adames’ contract, including his signing bonus of $22 million, is the largest total value contract in San Francisco Giants history, surpassing Buster Posey’s previous record. Adames and the Giants agreed to a seven-year $182 million contract, which was finalized in December 2024. Remember also, his full no-trade clause gives him the power to refuse any deal he doesn’t like. Is he going to be traded? You tell me, but I am not convinced he will.

3-The Easy One: Luis Arraez. This guy is just a solid star player who is a four time MLB All-Star, three time batting champion, and 2-time Silver Slugger winner; what is not to like here? Oh yeah, he also plays a very good defensive second base. He will be traded, and Giants fans will miss him. Arraez’s salary this year with the Giants is $12 million. And he is worth every penny.

The Chapman Chapter: Chapman’s manager in Oakland Bob Melvin’s favorite player in Oakland. The manager always talks big about Matt Chapman, and one of the reasons he crossed the bay to San Francisco to play for the Giants was because Bob Melvin was managing the Giants and he wanted him, and he got him.

The question is: what can Chapman bring in return to the Giants if they trade him? Nobody knows. But it is most likely that Matt Chapman will be traded. A Gold Glove third baseman who has won five Gold Glove Awards, two Platinum Gloves Awards, and one All-Star selection. At 33 years old, he is still a good player for any team that values defense, and he can also give you a big hit in a key moment in a game. I never underestimate Chapman.  He will be traded. The Chicago Cubs and Boston Red Sox can use a third baseman with experience, especially Boston.

Robbie Ray. A pitcher with lots of value. Since Webb is untouchable, Ray is the one starter that could fly away. Lots of teams can use a pitcher with his stuff. A Cy Young Award winner and two-time All-Star, he is somebody who will definitely help a team point to the postseason. Ray will change uniforms again soon; he has pitched for Detroit, Arizona, Toronto, Seattle, San Francisco, and soon_______?

The Giants have a dysfunctional bullpen: They need talented arms who can hold leads and close a game at any given time; the Giants lack all that. A major weakness for this team is relief meltdowns; they need more reliable arms and guys who can pitch in high-pressure situations. They have to find a way to have a better bullpen, because this 2026 version is not even close. There is no contending team without an established closer.

Note: When you think of any work stoppage, players’ strike or owners’ lockout, think of this. Major League Baseball has reached record-high gross revenues, hitting approximately $12.1 billion. This growth is driven by rising ticket sales, strong sponsorships, and massive individual franchise earnings. As we can see, any prolonged work stoppage is not good for anybody, and it could cause irreparable damage to the game’s reputation.

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

Whether you’re pre-gaming with the Kings or celebrating an A’s win, Cyprus Grille at the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena is your downtown go-to.

⚡Craft cocktails? Check.
🔥Game-day bites? Oh yeah.
🏟️Steps from Golden 1 Center? You bet.

Open daily, Cyprus Grille is serving up local flavor with a front-row seat to the action. Stop by before or after the game—or make it your new downtown hangout.

Cyprus Grille—where fans fuel up.

📍Located inside the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena @ 300 J Street

Happy Hour – 4pm-6pm

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: No LeBron James for the Warriors? That complicates the Warriors’ plan

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Former Los Angeles Laker LeBron James who is making his way to the Philadelphia 76ers ended the dream of joining Stephen Curry (right) and the Golden State Warriors (Yahoo.com file photo)

No LeBron James for the Warriors? That complicates the Warriors’ plan

That’s Amaury News and Commentary

Amaury Pi-González

There is no doubt that the Golden State Warriors needed LeBron James more than the Philadelphia 78ers. The future Hall of Fame player chose to sign a two-year, $8 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. It is not money anymore; he wants to compete and challenge himself into a role that could lead to a championship for his new team, in this case, the 76ers.

The Warriors are facing a lot of pressure to maximize Stephen Curry, their biggest star and future Hall of Fame member. Curry had a wuiioet season and recovering helaht, not havbing LeBron James now rthey they are in a rough situation as they play in a very tough Western Conference, with such team as the Thunder, Spurs, Nuggetts and Lakers, just to mention a few, the patch for the Warriors is not much more complicated than a few days ago, when they was still hope of LeBron James by the bay..

It is simple.If the Warriors could have paired LeBron James with Stephen Curry, that would have put them in championship contention right away, but it was not the case; some say: it was not meant to be. In the meantime, the most spoken-of Warrior in recent memory, Draymond Green, is finalizing a new commitment after declining his $27.7 million player option.

New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III is a primary trade option, and many expect the Warriors could be making available their first-round draft picks to make a deal with the New Orleans team. This shows potential, and it could happen, but the Warriors have to consider drastic adjustments, maybe Michael Porter Jr.or even Alperen Sengun. They might be “close to desperate,” but nobody can deny that Warriors fans were highly disappointed, as their hopes were high on a LeBron Stephen duo taking the team once more to an NBA TITLE.

And that’s the way the ball bounces!

Quote: Michael Jordan: “I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

Whether you’re pre-gaming with the Kings or celebrating an A’s win, Cyprus Grille at the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena is your downtown go-to.

⚡Craft cocktails? Check.
🔥Game-day bites? Oh yeah.
🏟️Steps from Golden 1 Center? You bet.

Open daily, Cyprus Grille is serving up local flavor with a front-row seat to the action. Stop by before or after the game—or make it your new downtown hangout.

Cyprus Grille—where fans fuel up.

📍Located inside the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena @ 300 J Street

Happy Hour – 4pm-6pm

Show your ticket for additional discounts when dining in. 

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: America Shines in World Cup — Will Soccer become Big in the US?

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Spain’s Ferran Torres (7) celebrates an opening goal which turned out to be the only goal in the World Cup match Final against Argentina at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford New Jersey on Sun Jul 19, 2026 (AP News photo)

America Shines in World Cup   – Will Soccer Become Big in the US?

That’s Amaury News and Commentary

By Amaury Pi-González

The 2026 Men’s FIFA World Cup in the United States was a total financial and cultural success, with record attendances at stadiums all over the country and massive television ratings. People from all over the world came to the US and had very positive experiences; many expected hostility and division but found great hospitality, diverse cultures, and communities welcoming people from Norway to Argentina, from Colombia to France.

Soccer, Fúbol, Balompie, is a sport played in 200 countries; there is no argument that this is the most popular sport in the world, and the United States of America, not a Fútbol-Soccer country, was well represented with their team; we should all be very proud of the USA Soccer team in the World Cup, England with the Premier League and Spain with La Liga dominate this sport by quantity of talent at the professional level and it is where the greatest Fútbol players show their talent. For the United States to join the South American and European soccer powerhouses, it could be and will be done, but it is not happening right away.

The USA has the most famous and highest-revenue professional sports leagues in the world. It is home to the “Big Four” most lucrative leagues globally: the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL. The United States provides a canvas for sports like nobody else in this world. However, Soccer is NOT  “yet” a sport that can rival the popularity of these other sports. Major League Soccer (MLS) is the highest level of professional men’s soccer in the US and Canada, but it is not close to the quality of play that is featured in the European leagues.

I followed this World Cup like most people, as a fan watching most of the games on TV, unlike the first World Cup that took place in the US in 1994, when I was a credentialed member of the media with Telemundo as their Sports Anchor. 1994 was fun; it was great, but this 2026 World Cup, which also took place in the US, broke all the records. However, the United States, which, according to FIFA, remains an elite top-8% still has a long way to go.

What can the US do to improve their soccer? 

Overhauling our schools’ structures for sports, the great majority of our young athletes play  Baseball, Football, Basketball, and Hockey. Schools should increase their Fútbol-Soccer disciplines. The US does not develop players in this sport as it does in the other sports we have been doing for many decades. It will happen, but it will also take years, because the whole structure of sports in schools will have to change. Young athletes get drafted to play in our main professional leagues; that doesn’t happen today in the world’s most popular sport. We are a country of innovators; I do not see any reason why the US could not become a power in Fútbol-Soccer.

By the way: Felicidades España! 

Quote”  “It’s not that I hate soccer, it’s just that I have time to watch other sports.”  Jim Rome (Sports Broadcaster)

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

Whether you’re pre-gaming with the Kings or celebrating an A’s win, Cyprus Grille at the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena is your downtown go-to.

⚡Craft cocktails? Check.
🔥Game-day bites? Oh yeah.
🏟️Steps from Golden 1 Center? You bet.

Open daily, Cyprus Grille is serving up local flavor with a front-row seat to the action. Stop by before or after the game—or make it your new downtown hangout.

Cyprus Grille—where fans fuel up.

📍Located inside the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena @ 300 J Street

Happy Hour – 4pm-6pm

Show your ticket for additional discounts when dining in.

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: A’s lost for pitching last in ERA

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Current Sacramento A’s starter JT Ginn has the A’s best pitching record going into the second half of the season at 7-6 ERA 3.67 (AP photo)

A’s lost for pitching last in MLB

That;s Amaury News and Commentary

By Amaury Pi-González

Sacramento Athletics with the highest combined  Earned Run Average of any MLB team this season, 5.20

Before the season got underway a few months ago, I did not expect the A’s to do well in one key department, pitching. And, yes, I hate to say I was right. Not only the A’s recently fire their pitching coach, Scott Emerson. Scott Emerson served as the Athletics’ pitching coach for 9 years, from June 2017 to July 2026. I remember when he first got the job in Oakland; I spoke with him during a kind of group interview with other reporters at the Oakland Coliseum, and later on a one-on-one basis for our broadcast.

‘Manager Bob Melvin has always considered Emerson a good man, and he is. The problem is very simple: you can be the best coach, but you need some talent to work with. Just like a manager, as good as a manager can be, he also needs talented players. Although it is not baseball, this also applies here. Brazilian jockey Jorge Ricardo holds the official world record for the most horse racing career wins, with over 13,000 victories, however and “no pun intended” if the horse that Ricardo was riding was limping or was not performing well, he would never have won 13,000 races.

Luis Severino was the #1 starting pitcher for the Athletics at the start of the 2026 season. Manager Mark Kotsay named the right-harder as the staff leader and Opening Day starter against the Toronto Blue Jays.  Severino has spent the majority of the season on the injured list due to right arm and shoulder injuries, after an MRCI revealed a strain; he was transferred to the 50-day list in late June. Severino signed a three-year, $67 million free agent contract with the Athletics before the season. He was their Número uno pitcher, but in the real world, with most teams, he would have been at best a #3 in the rotation. In the land of the blind  a one-eye person is king,.

Are the A’s buyers or sellers?   The Athletics are trending toward being sellers at the August 3rd trade deadline. What the A’s do with a very good lineup, powerful, young, and aggressive, depends on this second half if their pitching performs, or if it just ‘ lays an egg again.

A’s begin the second half in penultimate place in the AL West with 41-55, 8 games behind the first-place Texas Rangers. How well they will do depends on whether they can make some adjustments with their pitching. They remind me of the old Volvo I had: a great car, but there was always something going wrong, and at the end, I just got rid of it.

The A’s have some young players that could bring something good in return, but they are not going to trade for Tarik Skubal, that is for sure. So they will keep playing at their temporary yard, and like an old saying, they are going to “play it by ear”. See what happens, but do not expect them to make the playoffs; however, if they do, I would be very happy for them.

Quote: The key to winning baseball games is pitching, fundamentals, and three run homers.-Earl Weaver

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

LaTerraza Mexican Restaurant 1027 2nd Street in Old Sacramento give them a call at 916-440-0874

From the second you step in the front door, the sounds of Latin America will gently seduce your ears and continue as you relax outdoors with your favorite cocktail enjoying the view. The wonderful flavors and aromas of our cuisine will not disappoint.

We use only the finest, freshest, local ingredients in every dish and every dish is prepared to order. Enjoy live mariachi music weekly and on special occasions, catch balet folklorico dance performances among other live entertainment. Come visit us and have a great time! Enjoy fast, friendly service, fantastic food & cocktails, music and allow us to share our beautiful Mexican heritage with you.

LaTerraza Mexican Restaurant at 1027 2nd Street in Old Sacramento give them a call at 916-440-0874

All Star Game/That’s Amaury News and Commentary podcast: MLB All Star Game a marquee event for 250th anniversary of Independence

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Logo from the Major League Baseball All Star Game at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia (MLB logo)

That’s Amaury News and Commentary podcast:

#1 Philadelphia hosts the 96th MLB All-Star Game The All-Star Game returns to Philadelphia’s Citizens Bank Park for the first time ever, serving as one of the marquee events celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence.

#2 Complete All-Star rosters are announced MLB has unveiled the full American League and National League rosters, featuring baseball’s biggest stars along with several first-time All-Stars who earned their first Midsummer Classic selections.

#3 Starting lineups and pitchers revealed American League manager John Schneider named Dylan Cease as his starting pitcher, while National League manager Dave Roberts selected Cristopher Sánchez of the hometown Phillies. Managers also constructed their lineups based heavily on left-right pitching matchups.

#4 Home Run Derby opens All-Star Week The T-Mobile Home Run Derby headlines Monday night’s festivities with eight of baseball’s premier sluggers competing for the title at Citizens Bank Park before Tuesday’s All-Star Game.

#5 MLB Draft and All-Star Week converge The conclusion of the 2026 MLB Draft and the start of All-Star Week have combined to make Philadelphia the center of the baseball world, with top prospects, current stars, and Hall of Famers all participating in the festivities.

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

LaTerraza Mexican Restaurant 1027 2nd Street in Old Sacramento give them a call at 916-440-0874

From the second you step in the front door, the sounds of Latin America will gently seduce your ears and continue as you relax outdoors with your favorite cocktail enjoying the view. The wonderful flavors and aromas of our cuisine will not disappoint.

We use only the finest, freshest, local ingredients in every dish and every dish is prepared to order. Enjoy live mariachi music weekly and on special occasions, catch balet folklorico dance performances among other live entertainment. Come visit us and have a great time! Enjoy fast, friendly service, fantastic food & cocktails, music and allow us to share our beautiful Mexican heritage with you.

LaTerraza Mexican Restaurant at 1027 2nd Street in Old Sacramento give them a call at 916-440-0874.

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: From Oakland A’s Ball Girl to owning a Cookie Empire

Published on by Sports Radio Service2 Comments

Debbie Sivyer founder of Mrs. Fields Cookies is seen on a Topps 1973 style card as a ball girl for the Oakland A’s during the A’s World Championship years

That’s Amaury News and Commentary

By Amaury Pi-González

Somebody who knew former A’s ball girl Debbi Fields is Nancy Finley the niece of former Oakland A’s owner Charlie O. Finley and the daughter of Carl Finley, who was the team’s General Manager. I asked Nancy about Fields. Nancy Finley is the author of the book “Finley Ball”, which details the behind-the-scenes administrative history of the A’s during the dynasty years in the 1970s. You can buy the book on Amazon and at many bookstores.

Nancy Finley explained to me how the whole idea of having Ball Girls came about: “I overheard Dad on the phone with Charlie, telling him how pretty Kathy’s sister, Debbi, was. Charlie asked Dad what they could do to bring Kathy into the office. This is when Charlie or Dad came up with the Ballgirl position. They briefly tried this in KC. That was in 1965. Dad said it would be better if they had a pair of Ballgirls, one for first base, and one for third base”.

“Dad asked Kathy if her sister could meet with him after school. I remember when Debbi arrived to meet with Dad. Dad offered her this position and asked if Debbie had a friend she could recommend for the other Ball Girl. This turned out to be Mary Berry. Debbie Sivyer and Mary Berry started as Ball Girls in 1971. I remember when we had the green-and-gold outfits designed”.

The A’s were the first team in Major League Baseball to introduce ball girls on the foul lines, under baseball innovator Charlie O’. Finley. The iconic program began in 1968 and famously employed future Mrs. Fields Cookies founder Debbi Fields in its early years. The tradition continued across the baselines until the franchise concluded its 57-year tenure in Oakland at the end of the 2024 season

Fields was destined to hit the jackpot in the Holding Company business, with help from an investor. Fields sold her Mrs. Fields cookie empire to an investment firm, Famous Brands International (formerly Mrs. Fields Holding Company), for $100 million in 1992. Currently, she doesn’t own the company; she continues to serve as the brand’s iconic spokesperson.

Fields opened her first store in Palo Alto, California, in 1977. By offering free samples to attract customers, she turned a small startup into an internationally recognized brand that now operates in over 250 locations. In addition to her baking empire, she has authored several cookbooks.

When I first began broadcasting Major League Baseball, back in the mid-to-late 1970s for the Oakland A’s. I usually had more contact with Mr. Carl Finley, who was the GM and oversaw the team’s daily operation, than with Charlie Finley, the owner.

Charlie O. Finley occasionally visited Oakland after the A’s won World Series titles in 1972-73-74. Remembered as a groundbreaking and innovative executive, he is not in the National Baseball Hall of Fame at Cooperstown, but he is a member of the Indiana Baseball Hall of Fame and the Athletics Hall of Fame.

I thank Nancy Finley for sharing these memories from her years with the Oakland A’s.

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

Whether you’re pre-gaming with the Kings or celebrating an A’s win, Cyprus Grille at the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena is your downtown go-to.

⚡Craft cocktails? Check.
🔥Game-day bites? Oh yeah.
🏟️Steps from Golden 1 Center? You bet.

Open daily, Cyprus Grille is serving up local flavor with a front-row seat to the action. Stop by before or after the game—or make it your new downtown hangout.

Cyprus Grille—where fans fuel up.

📍Located inside the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena @ 300 J Street

Happy Hour – 4pm-6pm

Show your ticket for additional discounts when dining in. 

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: 2026 World Cup–Our Continent is Eliminated

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Team USA Chris Richards takes a pause after their loss in the World Cup to Team Belgium in the 16th round at Lumen Field/Seattle Stadium on Mon Jul 6, 2026 (AP News photo)

2026 World Cup: Our Continent is Eliminated

That’s Amaury News and Commentary:

2026 marked the first time that Canada, the United States, and México jointly hosted a FIFA World Cup. It is also the first World Cup in history to be co-hosted by three nations..From North to South. Canada, the United States of America, and México were all eliminated in Round 16 in their respective groups. That means these countries here on our Continent will have to wait until 2030. The next Men’s FIFA World Cup in 2030 will be jointly hosted across three continents by Morocco, Portugal, and Spain.

Every FIFA World Cup champion in history has come from only two continents: Europe (12 titles) and South America (10 titles). Only eight nations have ever won the tournament. Not a surprise that Canada, United States of America, and México did not go far; the US is by far the most sports-oriented country in the world, but Fúbol (Soccer in the US) is not a top-tier sport. The best league is MLS (Major League Soccer), but the only “major” thing is the title.

Here is one example of why the MLS is just “major “by name. Landon Donovan is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in U.S. soccer history, but his club stints in Germany with Bayer Leverkusen had mixed results. He signed with the Bundesliga at age 16 but never really made it overseas. As a matter of fact, he spent most of the time on the bench and never established himself as a regular starter for the German team.

As much as Fútbol/Soccer has advanced in the US, it is still mostly an amateur sport. There is not much room for other leagues after the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL; these are the best leagues in their respective sports, with the highest fan followings and player salaries in the world.

Adiós Canada, USA and México to the Fútbol World Cup an Hasta la Próxima, Baby!

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

Whether you’re pre-gaming with the Kings or celebrating an A’s win, Cyprus Grille at the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena is your downtown go-to.

⚡Craft cocktails? Check.
🔥Game-day bites? Oh yeah.
🏟️Steps from Golden 1 Center? You bet.

Open daily, Cyprus Grille is serving up local flavor with a front-row seat to the action. Stop by before or after the game—or make it your new downtown hangout.

Cyprus Grille—where fans fuel up.

📍Located inside the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena @ 300 J Street

Happy Hour – 4pm-6pm

Show your ticket for additional discounts when dining in. 

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: From My Notebook–Baseball Broadcasters and Longevity

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From My Notebook: Baseball Broadcasters and Longevity

That’s Amaury News and Commentary

By Amaury Pi-González

Some people believe that if you do something you enjoy, you will live longer. Such is the case for baseball announcers’ longevity. Also, the phrase “Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life” is famous and emphasizes career happiness, but its exact origin is unknown.

It is frequently attributed to the ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius. Some of the announcers I have met and know are in this category. My mentor and fellow Cuban colleague Rafael “Felo” Ramírez, the first-ever Spanish-language radio broadcaster for the Florida/Miami Marlins, called games as a very young man in Cuba and later in the US for the Marlins.

He was their first Spanish announcer in Miami, and for 25 years plus in total between Cuba and the US, Felo called 72 years’ worth of games. I used to listen to him on the radio when I was a young kid in Havana during the old Cuban professional Winter League.

In 1998, I called postseason games for the LBC (Latino Broadcast Corporation) out of Miami, associated with CARACOL for the US and Latin America; it was a thrill to work with my broadcast idol. An unforgettable memory for me: funny, witty, and a pro who knew baseball like the palm of his hand.

Every time we ran into each other across the seasons, we spoke at length about the game; he was “el mejor”. Jaime Jarrín, who is 91 years young and retired, called the Dodgers in Spanish for 64 years. An old friend and colleague, I also had the pleasure of calling games with him for the postseason for the US and Latin America for those same networks I previously mentioned, which covered the US and Latin America in the 1990s.

René Cárdenas, who passed this May at the age of 90, was the first ever to call games in Spanish in the United States with Houston, then with the Dodgers. I worked with him for one game when he came to Candlestick Park with the Dodgers.

His roadcast partner, Jaime Jarrín, could not travel to San Francisco with René due to a family emergency, so I filled in for Jaime and worked with René. Only once, because of the circumstances, but nonetheless memorable. I stayed in touch with René for years. In 2025, the fourth year, he was nominated for the Ford C. Frick Award; we talked by phone (he lived in Florida) and told him that Cooperstown cannot forget him as the pioneer of baseball in Spanish; he was the nationwide pioneer.

He died soon after; Cooperstown never called. When René Cárdenas started doing baseball in Spanish, the Hispanic population of the United States was 4 to 5 million; today there are 68 million Hispanics in this country. In the world, only Máxico has a larger Hispanic population than the US.

The Undisputed King of all longevity and perfection behind a baseball microphone is the one and only Vin Scully. Vin Scully called baseball games for an incredible 67 years, the longest tenure of any broadcaster with a single professional sports team in history, the Brooklyn and then LA Dodgers. He also called 28 World Series for the country.

Nobody could tell a story without interrupting the action like Mr. Scully, a classic performer. Some of the other legendary announcers throughout history include Harry Caray, Jack Buck, Mel Allen, and Ernie Harwell; baseball on the radio was king.

They all share the love and passion for the game, like yours truly. I even did some game recreations back in the 70s, and the guys I mentioned were already describing the game they love on the radio. I have broadcast baseball for 47 years, but I never lost my passion for the game.

An old friend of mine, who was a doctor, once told me, “I will pay to do what you do.” As you can see, age is not a limit for a broadcaster in baseball. Unlike other sports, baseball is the most literate. The largest library in the world is the Library of Congress, located in Washington, D.C. “It houses over 170 million items across approximately 838 miles of bookshelves and houses the world’s largest baseball collection, making baseball the most heavily represented sport in the world.

There are more books written on baseball than any other sport. Doing baseball broadcasts/play-by-play on the radio is one of the professions you could do when you are 70 and even older. As long as you can see, walk, read, and speak, and have the baseball knowledge to call the game as it happens and entertain your audience, you come to the park early to “take it all in,” because in the end, the majority of us truly love the game.

Quote: “Get out the rye bread and mustard, grandma, it’s grand salami time”- Home run call by Seattle Mariners’ announcer, Dave Niehaus. Happy 250th Anniversary to the United States this 4th of July; not many countries can claim that!

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

LaTerraza Mexican Restaurant 1027 2nd Street in Old Sacramento give them a call at 916-440-0874

From the second you step in the front door, the sounds of Latin America will gently seduce your ears and continue as you relax outdoors with your favorite cocktail enjoying the view. The wonderful flavors and aromas of our cuisine will not disappoint.

We use only the finest, freshest, local ingredients in every dish and every dish is prepared to order. Enjoy live mariachi music weekly and on special occasions, catch balet folklorico dance performances among other live entertainment. Come visit us and have a great time! Enjoy fast, friendly service, fantastic food & cocktails, music and allow us to share our beautiful Mexican heritage with you.

LaTerraza Mexican Restaurant at 1027 2nd Street in Old Sacramento give them a call at 916-440-0874.

That’s Amaury News and Commentary podcast: Mookie hits his 300th career Moon Shot for Dodgers; A two team market does work White Sox and Cubs move up in MLB power rankings; plus more news

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Mookie Betts of the Los Angeles Dodgers seen here swinging against the San Diego Padres on Fri Jun 19, 2026 at Petco Park San Diego. Betts hit his 300rd career home run against the Sacramento A’s on Mon Jun 29, 2026 (AP News photo)

That’s Amaury News and Commentary podcast:

#1 Mookie Betts reached 300 career home runs that landed him among MLB’s top headlines on June 29, 2026?

#2 Why were both the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox climbing the MLB Power Rankings entering the final days of June?

#3 What made the pitching matchup between Detroit Tigers Tarik Skubal and New York Yankees Cam Schlittler one of the most anticipated games of the week?

#4 Which notable roster moves involving players such as Teoscar Hernández and Jacob Wilson made headlines in MLB transactions on June 29?

#5 How did the Houston Astros turn their season around during June, and what role did their defense play in their recent success?

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

LaTerraza Mexican Restaurant 1027 2nd Street in Old Sacramento give them a call at 916-440-0874

From the second you step in the front door, the sounds of Latin America will gently seduce your ears and continue as you relax outdoors with your favorite cocktail enjoying the view. The wonderful flavors and aromas of our cuisine will not disappoint.

We use only the finest, freshest, local ingredients in every dish and every dish is prepared to order. Enjoy live mariachi music weekly and on special occasions, catch balet folklorico dance performances among other live entertainment. Come visit us and have a great time! Enjoy fast, friendly service, fantastic food & cocktails, music and allow us to share our beautiful Mexican heritage with you.

LaTerraza Mexican Restaurant at 1027 2nd Street in Old Sacramento give them a call at 916-440-0874.

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: Big Race to Celebrate America’s 250th

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Helio Castroneves has a discussion with his team. Castroneves is preparing for The American 250th IndyCar Race on Aug 21-23 also know as the Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington DC (AP file photo)

Big Race to Celebrate America’s 250th

That’s Amaury News and Commentary

The American 250th IndyCar race is a Milestone event for the sport, with some of the world’s most famous drivers participating, including four-time IndyCar champion Helio Castroneves and Tony Kanaan. The event takes place August 21 to 23, with the main race Sunday the 23rd.           

  • Location: A 1.7-mile, 7-turn temporary street circuit right in the heart of the city. Drivers will race past the U.S. Capitol, the National Air and Space Museum, and a sweeping frontstretch on Pennsylvania Avenue.
  • Cost: General admission is free to the public, offering open access to fan activation areas and big screens that broadcast the race.
  • Broadcast: If you cannot make it to the nation’s capital, the race will be broadcast live on FOX.

Additional  Note about DC.”  A century-old secret hidden beneath the feet of former President Abraham Lincoln opened to the public this June 25, with a new video from the U.S. Department of the Interior teasing never-before-seen views of the National Mall. Admittance is Free.

May you have a Happy 250th this 4th of July. After all, how many countries in the world can celebrate 250th Anniversary of Independence? 

Quote: “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.”  John F.Kennedy.

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

LaTerraza Mexican Restaurant 1027 2nd Street in Old Sacramento give them a call at 916-440-0874

From the second you step in the front door, the sounds of Latin America will gently seduce your ears and continue as you relax outdoors with your favorite cocktail enjoying the view. The wonderful flavors and aromas of our cuisine will not disappoint.

We use only the finest, freshest, local ingredients in every dish and every dish is prepared to order. Enjoy live mariachi music weekly and on special occasions, catch balet folklorico dance performances among other live entertainment. Come visit us and have a great time! Enjoy fast, friendly service, fantastic food & cocktails, music and allow us to share our beautiful Mexican heritage with you.

LaTerraza Mexican Restaurant at 1027 2nd Street in Old Sacramento give them a call at 916-440-0874.