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“There’s no excuse for losing seven games in a row,” the old scout said. “That was a complete downer and a complete surprise. We can make all kind of excuses, injuries and that kind of thing. (But) even with that we should have done better. I think we’ve got a good nucleus. I’m excited in talking to the players. I’m excited about how they feel and excited about a new year. It’s time we step up and get it done and I think we will.”‘