Thursday, June 30, 2011

Reading has 3 all stars

Congratulations to Mike Spidale, Matt Rizzotti and Austin Hyatt, who have been selected to play in the Eastern League All Star game in New Hampshire in a couple of weeks.

Travis d'Arnaud has also been selected to play in the game in his home ball park. Pretty cool, that!!

Carrasco, Worley impress again

The maturation of Vance Worley, Mike Stutes and Antonio Bastardo continues at a pace that no one could have foreseen earlier this year. Last night in Philadelphia, the trio combined to hold Boston to just 1 run on 5 hits, as the Phillies won again, 2-1. Worley recorded his 3rd win of the season, throwing 7 strong innings at the Sox to improve to 3-1, 2.57 on the year. Stutes (2.81) picked up his 5th hold, and Bastardo (0.93) his 3rd save, each throwing a 1-2-3 inning to finish off Worley's effort. As strong as that Boston line up is, to me this is an impressive performance by the 3 former Claws, especially when you consider that Boston pitcher John Lackey drove in the only run for the Red Sox!

Earlier, in Phoenix, Carlos Carrasco continued his impressive month, winning for the 7th time in his last 9 starts in a 6-2 Indians win over the Diamondbacks. Carrasco went 7 innings, and gave up 2 runs on just 4 hits (2 solo home runs accounting for the Arizona runs), NO walks and 7 Ks. Carlos showed once again that he is becoming unflappable, working out of trouble and picking up the big outs every time he needed them, including his last out, which was a strike out of pinch hitter Willy Mo Pena with 2 fastballs on the outside edge, and a killer slider that broke away from Pena, with the score 4-2, and a runner at second base. He also successfully sacrificed twice in his 4 at bats! Carrasco is now 8-4, 3.57 on the year, and will probably pitch Monday night in Cleveland against the Yankees. Lou Marson picked up 2 hits and a walk, and scored a run for Cleveland, and looks like he is finding his stroke at the plate.

The 2 wins make 49 on the year for former BlueClaws in the majors.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

32 and counting........

Domonic Brown hit his 5th home run, and a double, scoring 2 runs and driving in 2, leading the Phillies' attack behind Cliff Lee in a 5-0 win over the Red Sox. It was a 2-hit shut out for Lee, who has now pitched 3 complete game shut out in a row, and is up to 32 consecutive scoreless innings. Vance Worley will tackle the Sox tonight.

In Denver, Gavin Floyd threw 7 good innings for the White Sox, giving up just 2 runs on 6 hits and 2 walks against the Rockies. Floyd received no decision as Colorado took a 3-2 decision in the 13th inning.......In Houston, Michael Bourn (.285) had a single and a triple, scored twice and stole his 34th base of the year for the Astros, but Houston lost to the Rangers, 7-3.

In Altoona, the Reading Phillies scored 6 runs in the top of the 9th inning, Derrick Mitchell's 3-run HR (#13) the big blow, to come from behind to top the Curve, 9-7. Steve Susdorf (.310) had 2 hits and Terry Evans had a double and a home run, driving in 3 runs. Mike Cisco picked up the win, throwing 3 innings of scoreless relief to up his mark to 4-0, after Tyler Cloyd gave up 6 runs on 10 hits over the first 5 innings. Jacob Diekman notched his 1st save, despite allowing a run in the bottom of the 9th.

In Buffalo, the IronPigs rallied for a 6-3 win over the Bisons. Mike Zagurski (1.95) retired 5 hitters, notching a "hold", and Mike Schwimer struck out the last man of the game to record his 4th save.......In Pawtucket, Andy Baldwin started for Rochester, and gave up 6 runs on 7 hits (NO walks), striking out 7 PawSox as the Red Wings dropped a 8-6 decision to the home team.

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Monday's highs and lows

Chien-Ming Wang pitched for the first time in nearly 2 years Monday night, pitching 2 innings for Hagerstown against the BlueClaws and allowing 2 runs on 4 hits, as the Suns beat the Lakewood, 5-2 in the opener of a 7-game road trip for the Claws. Zack Collier had 3 hits for Lakewood, and is 11 for 30 (.367) over the last 9 games. David Buchanan started and went 6 for Lakewood, allowing all 5 runs on 8 hits and 1 walk, striking out 4 and slipping to 8-5, 3.48 on the year.

In Lakeland, the Threshers cashed in a 4-run 5th inning for a 4-2 win over the Flying Tigers. Trevor May recorded the win, his 5th, giving up just 1 run on 4 hits and 4 walks, over 5 innings of work. Jiwan James, Michael Dabbs, Jonathan Singleton, Sebastian Valle, Jeremy Barnes, and Fidel Hernandez all had 2 hits for Clearwater.

The Kansas City Royals have signed Edgar Garcia and he been assigned to the Wilmington Blue Rocks.

After hitting .307 in 54 games for the Threshers and being promoted to Reading, Joe Savery took the mound last night and threw 2 shut out inning for the R-Phils in their 3-1 win over Altoona. Matt Rizzotti hit his 14th home run, (1 of 2 hits on the night) and Tuffy Gosewisch added 2 more for Reading, helping J.C Ramirez win his 6th game of the year.

In Columbus, Yohan Flande started for Gwinnett, and went 5.1 innings, allowing just 1 run on 4 hits and 1 walk, to record his 3rd win for the Braves in a 5-1 win over the Clippers. Jason Donald (.310) took an 0 for 4 for Columbus..............In Durham, the Scranton Yankees took a 10 inning 4-3 from the Bulls, R.J. Swindel retired both hitter he faced, striking out 1.........In Trenton, Anthony Gose had 2 hits and stole base #35 on the year, and Travis d'Arnuad drove in a run for New Hampshire, but the Thunder prevailed, 6-4.......In Omaha, Robinson Tejeda gave up 4 runs on 4 hits, including 2 home runs , in 2 innings, and absorbed the loss in the Storm Chasers' 5-2 defeat by Memphis in the nightcap of their doubleheader..........In Las Vegas, Kevin Howard (.362) had 2 hits and a walk, stole a base, drove in a run and scored 2 more,but the 51s fell to Tacoma, 19-5..............In a game I overlooked yesterday, Joe Bisenius started Saturday night for Charlotte against Lehigh Valley, throwing 4 innings and allowing just 1 run on 4 hits and 5 walks, striking out 9.

Monday, June 27, 2011

quick weekend review

In Philadelphia Sunday, Josh Outman had the misfortune of matching up with Roy Halladay. Josh did well, allowing 3 runs on 8 hits and 2 walks (4 Ks) over 6 innings before coming out for a pinch hitter in the 7th. The Athletics could do nothing with Halladay, and Outman suffered his 2nd loss of the year as the Phillies won, 3-1.

In Houston, Jay Happ took his lumps from the Rays, allowing 5 runs on 9 hits in 5 innings in Tampa's 14-10 win over the Astros. Jay has hit a rough spot the last few starts, but in all honesty, his team offers very little help. Michael Bourn had an RBI hit, stole his league leading 33rd base, and scored a run for the Astros, and Sergio Escalona had to come on the get the final out of the game, which he did with a strike out of the only hitter he faced.

Over the weekend in Columbus, Jason Donald (.333) picked up 2 hits Saturday and another 1 Sunday, but the Clippers lost both day to Gwinnett..............In Durham, Greg Golson (.291) had 2 hits Saturday, including an 8th inning home run to give Scranton a 2-1 win over the Bulls, and 2 more hits on Sunday in an 11-3 Durham win.............In Nashville Saturday, Zack Segovia threw a scoreless 9th inning for the Sounds, and picked up a win when Nashville rallied for 4 in the bottom half for a 4-3 victory. Zack is 3-3, 4.46 for the Milwaukee affiliate............In Sacramento Saturday, Michael Taylor blasted his 8th home run of the year, 1 of 2 hits for him on the night, as the River Cats beat Reno, 8-3.

In Zebulon Sunday, Darrin Byrd threw 2.1 very effective innings in relief for Huntsville, allowing just 1 hit and 1 walk, striking out 2 in the Stars' 10-6 win over the Mudcats.............In Chattanooga, Will Savage picked up his 8th win of the year for Lookouts, a 7-2 win over Jacksonville. Will went 6 innings, allowing 2 runs on 4 hits and 2 walks..........In Manchester Saturday, Travis d'Arnaud belted a 3-run home run, his 8th of the year and one of his 2 hits, and Anthony Gose drove in a run and stole a base, as New Hampshire topped Portland, 9-5. Then on Sunday, it was Gose who had 2 hits and stole #34 as the Fisher Cats won again, 7-2.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

coming and going

After just 24 hours, Juan Sosa has been returned to Lakewood from Lehigh Valley, and Tyson Brummett has been promoted from Reading to take that spot on the roster.

Matt Payton has been promoted from Williamsport to Lakewood, taking Mike Dabbs spot, and Joe Esposito has been promoted from Clearwater to Reading. Also Leandro Castro has been placed on the DL in Clearwater , and Mike Cisco has been activated off the DL by Reading.

Short on time with a day game today, that's all for now.

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Stutes wins again; Carrasco shows maturity in loss

The Phillies managed to win a game Friday night with only 4 hits, as the pitching continues to shine. Vance Worley threw 6 innings of 1-hit shut out ball against Oakland, walking 4 and striking out 4 and leaving in a scoreless tie. Mike Stutes threw a 1-2-3 9th inning, striking out 2, and picking up the win when Ben Francisco's pinch hit single won it in the bottom half. Domonic Brown had 2 walks and 2 hits, including a single in the winning rally to set up Francisco's heroics. Brown had been 4 for his last 32 before last night.

The win was the 3rd for Stutes, and #47 for the Homeside.

The Phillies also announced that Roy Oswalt was placed on the DL with lower back inflammation, and it is uncertain how long he will be out. This should provide Worley with regular starts in the interim. Scott Mathieson was recalled to take Oswalt's spot on the roster.

In San Francisco, Carlos Carrasco was sabotaged by his defense in the Giant's 4-3 comeback win against the Indians. Carlos threw the whole game, allowing the 4 runs, 3 of which were unearned in the Giant's 6th inning, thanks to 2 careless errors by Carlos Santana at first base. Carrasco gave up just 6 hits (NO walks) and certainly deserved better than his 4th loss. In Fact, after Santana's 2nd error lef the bases loaded with no outs, and a run already in, Carrasco showed some good maturity and actually minimized the damage by getting out of the inning without allowing another hit, picking up his defense as well as he could, and keeping the Indians in the game. He did show some frustration after the inning was over, slamming his glove down on the bench, but finished the game showing no signs of the disastrous frame. Between that 6th inning, and the fact that Cleveland managed only 2 hits in the game, even in the loss I'd have to say Carlos almost single-handedly won the game for his side.

In the game Shin-Soo Choo was hit by a pitch and suffered a broken thumb which will keep him out indefinitely.

In Reno, Kyle Drabek's problems have mushroomed to major proportions. On Friday, he did not get out of the first inning, as he gave up 5 runs on 4 hits, including 2 homers, and 3 walks while recording just 2 outs in Las Vegas' 16-7 loss to the Aces. Kevin Howard (.359) had 3 hits for Vegas, including a 3-run home run, his 3rd long ball in just 39 at bats so far for the 51s............In Durham, Greg Golson (.282) had 3 hits and a walk, scored 3 times and drove in a run to help the Scranton Yankees beat the Bulls, 14-3..............In Tucson, Adrian Cardenas (.325) had 2 hits and a walk, and Michael Taylor had an RBI double and scored a run in Sacramento's 7-run 3rd inning as the Sacramento River Cats defeated the Padres, 8-7.........In Zebulon, Jesus Sanchez threw 2.1 innings of scoreless relief for Huntsville in the Stars' 6-5 win over the Mudcats. Jesus allowed only 1 hit (3 Ks), throwing 25 pitches to get his 7 outs, 18 for strikes. Quintin Berry has been placed on the DL for Carolina..............In Manchester, Anthony Gose had 2 doubles, a single, an RBI, scored a run and stole 2 more bases (that makes 32), as the Fisher Cats topped Portland, 4-3. Bobby Korecky (1.89) threw a 1-2-3 9th inning to notch his 5th save.

In Akron, the R-Phils lost to the Aeros, 3-1, managing just 5 hits. Derrick Mitchell had 2 of them and drove in the lone run for Reading. It was the 6th multi-hit effort in the past 11 games for the streaking Mitchell. Austin Hyatt was the hard luck loser, going 7 innings, and allowing 3 runs on just 4 hits, NO walks, and struck out 8.

The Phillies have promoted Michael Dabbs from Lakewood to Clearwater, and Juan Sosa has been sent from Lakewood all the way to Lehigh Valley. Dabbs will take D'Arby Myers roster spot, with Myers going on the DL. It is too bad for D'Arby, because with Joe Savery's promotion to Reading last week, the Threshers have moved Jonathan Singleton back to first base, which should have allowed for more playing time for both Myers and Brian Gump. The promotion of Dabbs should put him in a favorable position to get some time.

In Friday's game, the Daytona Cubs beat the Threshers, 5-2. Singleton had 3 more hits, and is 11 for 16 the last 4 nights. That is a .686 clip, and coincides with his return to first base. Sebastian Valle also had 3 more hits and is now batting .353, which I believe leads the FSL. Julio Rodriguez took the loss, giving up 5 runs on 5 hits and 5 walks (6 Ks) in 6 innings of work.

Friday, June 24, 2011

Singleton belts 2 more

Jonathan Singleton had a big night in Clearwater Thursday, following his 6 RBI game on Tuesday by belting 2 home runs and a double to help the Threshers to a 6-5 win over Dunedin. Singleton is 8 for 11 (with 3 walks) the last 3 nights including 2 doubles, 3 homers, and 8 RBI. Jonathan Pettibone recorded his 7th win of the year, despite allowing 5 runs on 7 hits over 7 innings.

Speaking of the Threshers, my congratulations go out to Threshers Sebastian Valle and Jarred Cosart who had been selected to play in the future stars game at the major league all star festivities in Phoenix next month. Cosart, who was selected to play last year but could not attend due to injury, will pitch for the USA team, and Valle will catch for the World side. Valle is having an MVP type season for Clearwater, hitting .343 at this point.

In Reading, Tuffy Gosewisch belted a grand slam home run, (#7), one of his 2 hits on the night as the R-Phils pounded Erie, 10-3. Red hot Derrick Mitchell had a single, a double, and a triple, raising his constantly rising average to .282. It was the 5th multi-hit game in the last 10 for Mitchell, who seems to improve almost daily. Freddy Galvis (.277) is also hot, adding 2 more hits, and is 10 for 22 over the last 5 games. Tyler Cloyd recorded his first win for Reading, scattering 7 hits over 8 innings of work.

In Manchester, Travis d'Arnuad hit his 7th home run of the year for the Fisher Cats, 1 of only 3 hits collected by New Hampshire in their 2-0 win over Altoona. Anthony Gose had a walk and stole base #30 (in 37 attempts)............In Zebulon, Darrin Byrd threw 2 scoreless innings for Huntsville, who lost to the Mudcats, 3-2................In New Orleans, Jesus Merchan had 2 hits and drove in a run for the Zephyrs who lost 7-5 to Round Rock in the first game of their doubleheader.........In Tucson, Michael Taylor had 2 hits, including his 7th home run of the year for Sacramento, but the River Cats fell to the Padres, 9-7................In Toledo, Jason Donald had a hit, 2 walks, scored a run and drove in another to help Columbus beat the Mud Hens, 6-0.


I also want to congratulate Chase d'Arnaud, Travis' brother, who was called up to the major leagues yesterday by Pittsburgh!!

Thursday, June 23, 2011

May fans 14 Yanks!

Trevor May had another fantastic outing in Tampa Wednesday, striking out 14 hitters and allowing just 1 hit and 2 walks over 7 innings. He receives no decision and the game was suspended in the 10th inning with the score tied at 2-2. Trevor is 4-4 with a 3.23 ERA and is getting hotter with the Florida summer. On the heels of being named the winning pitcher in the FSL all star game last weekend, this performance is makes 3 excellent starts in the last 4, as the consistency we have all been looking for is beginning to show itself.

Other highlights Wednesday include:

John Mayberry, with 3 hits including a 3-run home run in the first inning of Lehigh Valley's 10-5 loss to Indianapolis.

Kevin Howard (.303) had 2 hits, scored 2 runs and drove in another for Las Vegas in the 51s' 16-8 win over Reno.

Robinson Tejeda (0.59 ERA!) retires 5 straight hitters for Omaha in their 5-4 loss to Nashville in the nightcap of the doubleheader.


Yohan Flande has not been able to take advantage of a great opportunity with the Gwinnett Braves. Flande started the season in the bullpen, and earned a spot in the rotation. Last night, Syracuse got to him for 5 runs on 11 hits in 5.2 innings of work, for a total of 9 runs in 10 innings in the last 2 starts. Before that, a couple of good starts- and before that, some not so good. he is 2-4, 4.45 for the Atlanta affiliate.

Lee awesome again...Ryno hits #16

Ryan Howard belted his 16th home run with a man on in the 4th inning, 1 of 2 hits on the night for Ryno, and Cliff Lee threw his 2nd straight complete game shut out as the Phillies beat St Louis, 4-0. Howard now has 61 RBI, 2 behind Prince Fielder for the NL lead. As for Lee, in his last 4 starts, he has allowed only 1 run in 33 innings (out of a possible 36), picking up 4 wins to post an 8-5, 2.87 mark. Lee, Roy Halladay and Cole Hamels could all have 10 wins by the break; which should put all 3 of them on the all-star squad.

Quite a performance in New York last night by Gio Gonzalez, throwing 7 stellar innings for Oakland against the Mets. Gonzalez gave up just 1 run on only 4 hits and 1 walk, and struck out 8. Gio has been in the Athletics rotation all season, and is 6-5, 2.87 in 15 starts for a club that struggles to score runs. He won 15 games in 33 starts in 2010.

I guess I should explain that Gio never played for Lakewood, but was traded into and out of the Phillies system after I started following BlueClaws around. During his time at Reading, I had a very nice conversation with him, and liked him immediately as a person. He also has good stuff and is easy to root for.

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

All Star Notes

Tuesday night in Delmarva, the South defeated the North in the S.A.L. All Star game, 6-3. David Buchanan started for the North and threw a shut out frame. Lisalberto Bonilla had to bail out Hickory's Ramon Mendez, and was the only North pitcher to record 4 outs. He was charged with a run on 2 hits, and then Garrett Claypool struck out 2 of the 3 hitters he faced. Jim Murphy and Anthony Hewitt had a hit each for the North, with Murphy driving in a run.

Chris Wallace of Lexington won the home run derby, belting a total of 20!!


In Jackson, Tennessee, Will Savage threw a scoreless inning for the North, as they beat the South 6-3 in the Southern League All Star Game.

Singleton's 6 RBI not enough for win

Tuesday night in Allentown, the Indianapolis Indians took down the IronPigs, 2-0. Justin DeFratus recorded the final 4 outs, allowing a run on 2 hits, NO walks, and struck out 2........In Scranton, the Yankees were held to just 3 hits and blown out by Norfolk, 8-1. Greg Golson (.280) walked and scored the only run for Scranton, and also threw out a runner on the bases............In Cloumbus, Jason Donald had a single, a double, a sacrifice and scored a run for the Clippers in their 4-3 win over Toledo. Jason is hitting .300 for the Clippers, but the Indians do not appear ready to bring him back to the big team yet...........In Nashville, former major leaguer Jeff Suppan stopped the Sounds on just 2 hits for a 7-0 Omaha victory. Zack Segovia threw the last 2 innings for Nashville, and allowed a run on 5 hits and a walk, striking out 2 for the Sounds.............In Tucson, the Sacramento River Cats won a 4-3 game on a single by Michael Taylor in the top of the 10th inning. It was the second hit of the game for Taylor (.289) and RBI #22 on the year.

In Reading, red hot Freddy Galvis had 2 more hits, a single and a double, and scored the lone run for the R-Phils in their 4-1 loss to Erie. In the last 6 games, Galvis is 11 for 27 (.407). B.J. Rosenberg allowed 3 runs in the top of the 1st, but settled in and went 7 strong innings, giving up just 1 more run in his final 6 innings. Chris Kissock finished, tossong 2 scoreless frames for Reading...........In Corpus Christi, Jonathan Villar had a triple in 4 at bats and scored 2 runs for the Hooks, but San Antonio won the game, 10-6.

In Clearwater, Jonathan Singleton had a single, a double, a walk, and a 3-run home run, driving in 6 runs altogether, but the Threshers were outdone by Tampa, 11-9. Jiwan James (.268) and D'Arby Myers (.254) also had 3 hits each, and Troy Hanzawa added 2 hits , including his 2nd home run of the season. Jarred Cosart (4 IP, 4 runs, 5 hits, 3 walks), Joe Esposito (2 IP, 5 runs, 2 earned, 3 hits-including 2 dingers, 3 walks)and Jordan Whatcott (3IP, 2 runs, 5 hits) were all hit hard.

2 more wins on the HomeSide!

Josh Outman continues on a good roll, following up a 7-inning shut out performance against KC last week with another good 6 innings Tuesday night in New York. The Athletics beat the Mets, 7-3, with Outman allowing just 1 earned run (2 overall) on 4 hits and 2 walks, striking out 4 and improving to 3-1, 2.86 in his 6 starts so far. Josh looks to be completely recovered from his Tommy John surgery and back to top major league form.

In St Louis, the Phillies exploded for 9 runs in the 8th inning, to snatch a 10-2 win from the Cards. Mike Stutes (2.38) was the beneficiary of the outburst and recorded his 2nd major league win, despite giving up a run in his inning of work, and Antonio Bastardo (0.96) threw another scoreless frame. Carlos Ruiz was 4 for 4 on the night, with a run scored and an RBI, and Ryan Howard was hit by a pitch during the rally, and then came to bat a second time in the 8th and drove in a run (#59) with a single. He also walked twice on the night. Domonic Brown, who has been playing almost everyday, took an 0 for 3, and saw his average dip to .213.

The 2 victories give the HomeSide a total of 46 major league wins this year.

In Arlington, Michael Bourn had 3 hits, including 2 doubles, scored 2 runs, drove in 2 more and stole 2 more bases(32) for the Astros. Sergio Escalona faced 1 hitter, Josh Hamilton, and gave up a home run. It was the first earned run allowed by Sergio (2.31) in 11 appearances in June.............. In Cleveland, Lou Marson was 1 for 3, but the Indians dropped a 4-3 decision to Colorado.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Floyd, Happ hit hard

Monday night saw 2 HomeSiders have a rough time. First, in Arlington where J.A. Happ continues to have no luck whatsoever. In the first inning, an error opened the door for 3 runs (just 1 earned), and then in the second inning, he picked a runner off first base, only to have his infielder (Jeff Keppinger) miss the tag. That led to 3 more runs, and by the time the third inning was done, Happ was gone. 2.2 IP, 7 runs, 5 earned, 8 hits and 1 walk, and no help from his mates! Michael Bourn had a hit and a walk and his major league leading 30th stolen base.

Simultaneously, in Chicago, the White Sox got Gavin Floyd a 3-0 lead in the 1st inning. After 5 innings, he still had a 3-2 advantage, but the 6th inning was a disater. 4 hitters, 4 runs, 2 dingers and when it was all over, the Cubs had a 6-3 win and Floyd suffered his 7th loss of the season.

In Cleveland, the Rockies beat the Indians, 8-7. Lou Marson had a hit in 3 at bats, but made a costly throwing error attempting a pick-off in the top of the 8th inning which lead to what was eventually the winning run.

In Allentown, newly signed Tim Redding started for the IronPigs, and gave Lehigh Valley 6 innings. Andrew Carpenter came on for 2 perfect innings and was the winning pitcher when the Pigs rallied for 3 in the 8th to gain a 4-3 win. Carpenter is now 5-0, 1.65 on the year. Mike Schwimer notched his 3rd save with a scoreless 9th. The IronPigs are 43-27, and lead Scranton by 5 games in the Northern Division.............In Reading, the R-Phils dropped a 12-inning, 5-4 decision to Erie. Tyson Brummett started and went 5 innings, giving up 2 runs on 6 hits and 2 walks, striking out 3. Chris Kissock gave up 2 runs (1 earned) on 2 hits in 1 inning, Jacob Diekman walked 2 and struck out 3 in 2 frames, and Chance Chapman got through 2 scoreless innings also, before Derrick Loop gave up the game winner. Derrick Mitchell (#12) and Matt Rizzotti (#13) homered for Reading, and Freddy Galvis got 2 more hits and is now hitting .270.


In Rochester, the Charlotte Knights and the Red Wings split a doubleheader, with Joe Bisenius pitching the opener for the Knights. Joe threw 82 pitches in just 3 innings of work (4 hits, 2 walks, 4 Ks), but did not allow a run and the Knights went on to win that game, 7-2............In Columbus, Jason Donald had a hit, stole a base, and scored a run for the Clippers in their 3-1 win over Toledo...........In Round Rock, Robinson Tejeda (0.66 ERA) threw a 1-2-3 inning for Omaha, but the Express defeated the Storm Chasers, 8-5. Is anyone in the Royals front office paying attention!?

Monday, June 20, 2011

Hamels drops first decision in 6 weeks

In Seattle, Cole Hamels was a victim of non-support, as Jason Vargas threw a complete game, 3-hit shut out for the Mariners in their 2-0 win over the Phils. Hamels went 6.1, and allowed the 2 runs on 7 hits, NO walks, and absorbed the loss to fall to 9-3, 2.51 on the year. Ryan Howard (.256) had 2 of the 3 hits for Philadelphia...........In Los Angeles, the Dodgers sgut out Houston, 1-0. Sergio Escalona (1.54) faced 3 hitters, retired 1, walked 1 and allowed a single, but no run scored against him.

In Pawtucket, the IronPigs started Scott Mathieson for the 1st time this year, and Scott did very well, going 3.2 innings, throwing 60 pitches, 42 for strikes, and allowed just 1 hit and 1 walk, striking out 7. Mike Zagurski and Mike Schwimer each threw 2 shut out innings in the Pigs 2-0 win. Cody Overbeck hit his first home run for Lehigh Valley, and his 19th this year.

In Reading, Freddy Galvis had 3 hits, including a double, an RBI and scored a run for Reading, but New Britain prevailed again, 5-3. Steve Susdorf (.321, stolen base) and Derrick Mitchell (.284, RBI) added 2 hits apiece for the R-Phils. Susdorf is 8 for 18 (.444) the last 6 games, and Mitchell has had 4 2-hit games over the same span. Austin Hyatt started for Reading, and went 5 innings and allowed 3 runs on 5 hits and 2 walks, striking out 7. Les Walrond gave up the game winning run in his 2 innings, before Justin Friend came on and allowed 1 run over his 2 frames of work.


In Las Vegas, Kyle Drabek made his first start since being sent down, and his control problems continued. Kyle only made it through 4 innings, and gave up 5 runs (4 earned) on 8 hits and 7 walks (way too many) and received no decision in Reno's 12-7 win. Kevin Howard, a BlueClaw in 2007, has been with the 51s for 7 games. He hit his second home run Sunday, and is batting .348 in 7 games with Vegas so far...........In Sacramento, the River Cats dropped a 4-2 decision to Fresno, with Adrian Cardenas (.332) and Michael Taylor (.284) picking up the RBIs for the Cats.................In Corpus Christi, Jonathan Villar had 4 hits, including a double and an RBI for the Hooks, but Frisco won the game, 9-8 in 12 innings..............In Huntsville, the Stars have restored Jesus Sanchez' spot in the rotation, and he returned Sunday to face Birmingham. Jesus went 4 innings, allowing 2 runs on 4 hits and 2 walks, picking up 7 Ks in the Baron's 6-5 win. Darren Byrd allowed a run on 2 hits in his inning for Huntsville.

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Threshers pitch North to win.

In Clearwater, 4 Thresher pitchers each threw a scoreless frame to help the North top the South, 5-3 in the Florida State League All-Star game Saturday night. Jonathan Pettibone (who started), Jarred Cosart, Trevor May (who got the win), and Julio Rodriguez were all on top of their game for the North. None of the 4 allowed a baserunner!

Carrasco wins again!!

In Cleveland Saturday, Carlos Carrasco won his 6th game in his last 7 starts, running his scoreless streak to 20 consecutive innings before allowing a run by the Pirates in the 7th in a 5-1 Indians win. Carlos allowed just 4 hits and 1 walk, striking out 4 to improve to 7-3, 3.87 on the year. Can you say All-Star selection!!? Lou Marson (.239) had a hit in 4 at bats as the old magic seems to be back for this pair.

In Seattle, Vance Worley made his first start since his recall and went 5 good innings against the Mariners, matched up against King Feliz Hernandez. Vance left the game in a 1-1 tie, and Mike Stutes came on for the 6th, retired the Mariners, and when the Phillies scored 2 runs in the 7th, Stutes (2.08) was awarded his first major league win. Mike got 5 outs overall, before turning it over to Antonio Bastardo (1.00), who got the next 4. Ryan Howard had 2 hits and his 58th RBI, and Domonic Brown had a big double in the winning rally in the 7th.

These 2 more wins give the HomeSide a total of 44 major league victories in 2011.

In Los Angeles, Michael Bourn (.282) had a single, a double and a walk, scored a run and drove in another as the Astros beat the Dodgers, 7-0.

Earlier this week, the Toronto Blue Jays optioned Kyle Drabek to AAA Las Vegas. Kyle has been giving up runs at an alarming rate, and hopefully, the assignment will help him return to form. Kyle (4-5, 5.52 in 17 starts) will make his debut for the 51s today against Reno.

In Pawtucket, the Sox beat the IronPigs, 8-1. Justin DeFratus (2 IP, 2 runs, 3 hits, 1 walk, 3 Ks) and Phillippe Aumont (2 IP, 4 hits, 1 walk, 4 Ks) made their AAA debuts after being promoted by the Phillies.........In Scranton, the Yankees beat the Clippers, 4-0. Greg Golson (.293) had a double and an RBI in 3 at bats, and was also hit by a pitch for the Yankees..............In Gwinnett, R.J. Swindel retired all 4 hiteers he faced, striking out 2 of them, to help the Duham Bulls defeat the Braves, 8-1.......In Rochester, Mike Dubee allowed 4 runs in 2 innings for Indianapolis, as the Red Wings beat the Indians, 12-7 to gain a split of their doubleheader..........In Memphis, Zack Segovia came into the game for the 10th inning, and gave up 3 straight hits. and the game winning run to the Redbirds, who beat Nashville, 7-6. It has been and up and down season for Zack, who is 2-3, 4.59 for the Milwaukee affiliate.

In Reading, Tyler Cloyd was very good, but not good enough. Cloyd went 7 innings against New Britain, allowing 2 runs on 7 hits, NO walks, and 7 Ks, but was the hard luck loser in the Rock Cat's 2-1 win. Chance Chapman threw a scoreless 8th inning, and Jacob Diekman struck out the side in the 9th. Reading's lone tallly came on a Matt Rizzotti home run (#12) in the bottom of the 9th. Rehabbing Phillies' catcher Brian Schneider and Derrick Mitchell (.279, 2 doubles) had 2 hits each for Reading........In Erie, Travis d'Arnaud (.306) had a single and a double, scored 3 runs and drove in 2 more to help the Fisher Cats bop the Sea Wolves, 14-1.........In Akron, Jason Donald was 1 for 5, drove in a run and scored another, as the Aeros beat Portland, 9-4.

In Charleston, the West Virgina Power has ended the BlueClaws streak of 10 consecutive better than .500 halves with 6-2 win over Lakewood Saturday, holding the Claws to just 4 hits. However, one of the hits was Jim Murphy's 17th home run, tying him for the league lead.

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Murphy's law!....Phillies reshuffle

Big Jim Murphy hit 2 more home runs for Lakewood in Charleston on Friday night, but the Power still managed to get a 9-5 win. Murphy has hit 16 home runs this year, which is the most in one half of play ever for the BlueClaws. He adds this mark to his all-time HR mark (30 and counting) and his all-time RBI mark (139 and counting). He is also on pace to break the single season marks of 22 home runs and 91 RBI. With 3 dingers this week, Jim is ready for the home run contest at the All-Star Game festivities in Delmarva Tuesday night.

Mike Dabbs (.304) and Domingo Santana (.270) also had 2 hits for Lakewood, and David Buchanan gave up 5 earned runs (9 altogether) on 11 hits in 6 innings and was charged with his 4th loss. Colby Shreve was sharp, throwing 3 scoreless frames to finish. The BlueClaws will need wins in their final 2 games of the weekend to keep the string of better than .500 halves, currently at 10 and in jeopardy, alive.

Williamsport opened their season with a 7-0 win over State College, with Aaron Altherr getting 3 hits, including a double. Maikel Franco also had 3 hits, his big one was a 3-run bomb to cap a 5-run 3rd inning. Leonel Bastidas threw 6 shut out innings (4 hits, 3 walks, 3 Ks) to get the win, and Gabriel Arias put up 3 zeroes to notch a save.

The Florida State League All Star Game in tonight in Clearwater.

In Reading, New Britain's Brett Jacobson (3-0) shut out the R-Phils on just 3 hits. Freddy Galvis, Mike Spidale and Steve Susdorf each had a single as the Rock Cats prevailed, 6-0. Jordan Ellis pitched 2 innings and gave up a run on 3 hits and a walk, and recently promoted Derrick Loop allowed a run on 1 hit, but struck out the side in his inning.

In addition to Loop's promotion from Clearwater, there were several personel moves in the system. Justin DeFratus , Ryan Edell, Phillippe Aumont, and Cody Overbeck have been promoted to Lehigh Valley and Chance Chapman has been returned to Reading. Joe Savery and Justin Friend join Reading from Clearwater.


In Erie, Bobby Korecky recorded his 3rd save of the year for New Hampshire as the Fisher Cats took a 5-4 victory from the Sea Wolves. Bobby is 2-0, with a 2.12 ERA in 18 games for the Fisher Cats. Travis d'Arnaud (.302) had another hit for New Hampshire...............Jason Donald's comeback continues in Akron, where "JD" had a single and a walk and scored a run for the Aeros in their 4-3 loss to Portland.


It has been a good 2011 so far for IronPigs Andrew Carpenter and Mike Schwimer, and they both got into the 8-3 loss in Pawtucket Friday. Carpenter (1.73) retired all 4 hitters he faced (2 Ks). Schwimer (2.11) had a scoreless streak of 11.2 innings snapped, giving up 3 runs on 2 hits in his inning of work.............In Scranton, the red hot (10 in a row again) Columbus Clippers topped the Yankees, 6-5. Greg Golson (.293) had 2 triples and 3 RBI to pace Scranton, and is 9 for 18 in the last 5 games.............In Rochester, Andy Baldwin won his 4th game of the season with a fine effort against Indianapolis. Andy went 6 innings, and gave up only 1 run on just 5 hits and 2 walks as the red Wings beat the Indians, 7-4...............In Gwinnett, Yohan Flande followed up a great performance with a sub-par one Friday against the Bulls, going just 4.1 innings and giving up 6 runs on 9 hits and a walk and suffering the loss in Durham's 8-5 win over the Braves.

I overlooked Joe Bisenius' debut with Charlotte in Pawtucket on Monday night. "Bis" was great, going 6.1 inning and giving up just 1 run on 7 hits and a walk to pick up the victory, 4-1.

Friday, June 17, 2011

Thursday's notes

The Phillies won their 7th straight game Thursday, 3-0 behind a 2-hit complete game shut out performance from Cliff Lee. Ryan Howard belted his 15th home run (RBI #57), and Domonic Brown, who is in there almost everyday, was 1 for 4.

In Houston, the Pirates completed a sweep of the Astros with a 5-4 win. Michael Bourn had a walk and scored a run for the Astros, and Sergio Escalona allowed 1 hit and got 1 out. The hit did allow 2 inherited runners to score, which turned out to be the difference.


The Phillies have recalled Vance Worley from Lehigh Valley today. I believe he will get the start in Seattle Saturday. To make room, J.C. Romero was designated for assignment.

The Orioles have placed Alfredo Simon on the DL, with a right hamstring strain.

In Pawtucket, the Sox got to Mike Zagurski for 2 runs in the 7th inning to tie the game at 5-5, and went on to win it in the 10th, 6-5.................In Scranton, the Columbus Clippers took it to the Yankees, 8-1. Greg Golson (.287) had 2 of Scranton's 6 hits...............In Omaha, the Storm Chasers beat Iowa, 6-2, and Robinson Tejeda threw a 1-2-3 inning for the Chasers...............In Nashville, Zack Segovia threw a 1-2-3 9th inning to nail down a 1-0 victory for the Sounds over Round Rock. It was Zack's 1st save this year..............In Salt Lake City, Adrian Cardenas (.335) had a single, a double and a sacrifice to help Sacramento to a 5-1 win over the Bees.

In Kodak, the Tennessee Smokies roughed up Will Savage for 5 runs (4 earned) on 7 hits in just 4 innings. Will received no decision and the Lookouts came from behind to win the game, 6-5 and gain a split of their doubleheader.............In Huntsville, Jesus Sanchez pitched 1.1 innings of relief in the Star's 7-3 loss to Birmingham. Sanchez allowed 2 runs on 2 hits and 2 walks, and has struggled mightily lately..............In Akron, Anthony Gose (.249) returned from his suspension, and had a triple in 4 at bats, and Travis d'Arnaud (.305) singled and scored a run, as New Hampshire beat Akron, 8-5.

In Bowie, Mike Spidale (.333) had 4 hits, and Freddy Galvis had 3, including his 7th home run of the year, but the BaySox beat Reading, 8-7. B.J. Roseberg made the start and battled the BaySox through 6 innings, giving up 7 runs on 6 hits and 3 walks. Chris Kissock gave up the game winner to fall to 2-6 on the year.

Like Rosenberg, Joe Esposito is being tried as a starter with Clearwater. Espo made his second start for the Threshers and gave up 4 runs in the 1st inning to the Jays. He then threw up 3 scoreless frames, but the damage was done and Dunedin won the game, 5-3. Jiwan James (.261) and Cesar Hernandez had the only 2-hit games.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Taylor, Berry, Castro, Murphy all go deep

In Salt Lake City, Michael Taylor (.302) had 3 hits, including his 6th home run, and Adrian Cardenas added 2 more hits and scored twice for Sacramento as the River Cats beat the Bees, 11-5............In Jackson, Quintin Berry(.275) was 1 for 5, but the 1 was a big 3-run homer (his 1st) for the Mudcats, as Carolina beat the Generals, 7-0. Berry's BlueClaw teammate, Jason Donald, has been rehabbing in Akron, and has gone 2 for 5 in the last 2 night for the Aeros.

In Bowie, Tyson Brummett made the spot start for Reading and got through 4 innings, giving up just 1 run on 5 hits and a walk in Reading's 5-3 win over the BaySox. Justin DeFratus picked up his 8th save of the season. Paco Figueroa and Carlos Rivero had 2 hits each, and Matt Rizzotti and Tuffy Gosewisch each drove in a run for the R-Phils.

In Dunedin, Leandro Castro belted his 3rd home run in 2 days, but Julio Rodriguez could not hold a 5-1 advantage, and the Threshers fell to the Jays, 6-5. J-Rod was very good through 5 innings, but could not record an out in the 6th, pitching to 4 hitters and allowing them all to reach. Eric Pettis came on and allowed all 3 runs to score. Pettis finished the game and while he did blow that save, he has been pitching excellent ball since joining Clearwater. How about a 0.72 ERA. That's 2 earned runs in over 25 innings covering 13 appearances. Darin Ruf (.295) and Joe Savery (.307) had 2 hits each for Clearwater.

In Lakewood, the BlueClaws completed a 4-game sweep of the Suns, winning a suspended game from Tuesday with an infield hit by Travis Mattair, and riding the momentum of that hit, and Jim Murphy's 3-run 1st inning home run in the second game to a 9-5 win. For Murphy, it was his 14th home run of the year, and he now has 49 RBI. Fellow SAL All Star Garrett Claypool picked up his 2nd win of the season as Edgar Duran (.272), Michael Dabbs (.301) and Domingo Santana (.270) all had 2 hits for the Claws, who are 33-32 with 4 games left in the first half. If Lakewood can gain a split in their final 4 games in West Virginia, they will have their 11th consecutive half of over .500 ball. Considering the rate of turnover this teams gets, it is a fantastic achievement.

Kendrick, Outman pick up wins

Kyle Kendrick is quietly having a very good season. Performing well whether starting or coming out of the pen, Kyle was given the assignment against the Marlins Wednesday afternoon, and gave the Phillies 7 solid innings in an 8-1 romp. He allowed just 1 run on 5 hits and a walk, striking out 5 and keeping his pitches down well enough to record 11 ground outs. That's when you know he is doing well. Kendrick is now 4-4, 3.12 for the year. Ryan Howard had an RBI (56) double and scored a run.

In the night game, Carlos Ruiz had 2 hits and 2 walks, including the walk-off single in the bottom of the 10th to give the Phils the 5-4 victory on the sweep. Antonio Bastardo (1.05) retired both hitters he faced, and Mike Stutes got the next 4 outs (2.25, 1 walk) as Philadelphia improved to a major league best 43-26.

In Oakland, Josh Outman threw his best game in the majors since his return from surgery, going 7 shut out inning to lead the Athletics to a 2-1 win over the Royals. Outman allowed just 4 hits and 2 walks, and picked off a runner at first. he is now 2-2, 3.14 for Oakland this year.

Former Claws now have 42 major league wins this year.

We could have had more, as Gavin Floyd threw a complete game, but was outdone by Carl Pavano, as the Twins topped the Sox, 4-1. Gavin gave up 11 hits and 2 walks, and is now 6-6, 3.94 for Chicago. Meanwhile, in Houston, Jay Happ struggled through 5 innings, throwing 108 pitches against the Pirates, allowing 2 runs on 6 hits and 4 walks, while striking out 7. Happ left the game with a 3-2 lead, but the pen failed the Astros, and the Pirates won, 7-3. Michael Bourn (.283) had 3 hits and 2 more stolen bases (he stole third base twice, making it 29 on the year).

In Detroit, the Indians beat the Tigers, 6-4 to pull back into a first-place tie with Detroit. Lou Marson had 2 hits and a sacrifice and drove in a big run for the Tribe.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Ex-Claws lead Phillies to win

Thanks in no small part to the Philadelphia BlueClaws, the Phillies stopped the Florida Marlins, 9-1 Tuesday. Domonic Brown lead the attack with 2 solo home runs, Ryan Howard belted his 14th (55 RBI) and Cool Cole Hamels went 7 stellar innings to notch his 9th win. Hamels allowed just 1 run on 3 hits and 1 walk, and for all the talk about the "4 aces", Cole has been #1 in my eyes. He is now 9-2, 2.49 and has never been on a better role in his career.

It was win #40 for HomeSiders in 2011.

In Houston, the Prates topped the Astros, 1-0. Sergio Escalona (1.64) was at it again, this time he recorded 2 outs, with 1 K.


The Pittsburgh Pirates have promoted Mike Dubee to AAA Indianapolis. Mike took the loss in his AAA debut, allowing 2 runs on 1 hit and 1 walk in 1.1 innings of Gwinnett's 4-0 win over the Indians...........In Omaha, Robinson Tejeda had a rough time, and was betrayed by his defense on top of it. In 1.1 innings, Robinson gave up 6 hits, and 4 runs (only 1 earned), NO walks, and 3 Ks, and was the losing pitcher in Iowa's 11-5 win............In Memphis, Jesus Merchan had a single and a double and scored a run for New Orleans, but the Redbirds beat the Zephyrs, 5-3...........In Durham, the Bulls edged Norfolk, 1-0. R.J. Swindel picked up a hold, recording 2 outs for the Bulls...........In Akron, Travis d'Arnaud (.316) had a single and a double and scored a run as the New Hampshire Fisher Cats beat the Aeros, 7-1.

Chance Chapman's tribulations continue for Lehigh Valley. Chance gave up 6 runs on 6 hits and a walk, but the IronPigs took an 8-7 victory from Louisville. Andrew Carpenter went 2 scoreless relief innings, striking out 4, and Scott Mathieson pitched a shut out 9th to pick up his 5th save.

In Bowie, the BaySox beat Reading, 6-4. Mike Spidale (.323, single double, RBI), Cody Overbeck (.281), Steve Susdorf (.316, single, double, run scored) and Derrick Mitchell (.280, single, HR # 11, 3 RBI) all had 2 hits for the R-Phils. Austin Hyatt took the loss, going 5.1 innings and allowing 5 runs on 4 hits (3 of the home runs) and 4 walks. Jacob Diekman finished, going 2.1 innings and giving up an UNearned run on 2 hits and 3 walks, striking out 3.

In Dunedin, the Clearwater Threshers pounded out 17 hits en route to a wild 13-12, 10 inning win over the Jays. Leandro Castro belted 2 home runs (# 8 & 9) and drove in 4 runs, and Jiwan James (single, double, triple, RBI, run scored), Darin Ruf (2 singles, HR #4, 3 runs scored), and Cesar Hernandez ( 2 singles, HR #2, 2 RBI) all collected 3 hits. Brody Colvin (5 IP, 5 runs 7 hits, 4 walks) and Mike McGuire (.2 IP, 4 runs 5 hits, 2 walks) were hit particularly hard, but Ebelin Lugo threw a scoreless 10th to pick up his 2nd save.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Carrasco blanks Yanks

On the heels of his best performance in his young career, Carlos Carrasco followed up last Tuesday's effort with 7 more shut out inning in the Bronx Monday night, and the Indians salvaged the final game of their series in New York with a 1-0 win. After loading the bases with nobody out in the very first inning, Carlos settled in, and allowed the Bombers just 5 hit and 3 walks, striking out 7 to improve to 6-3, 4.09 on the year. He is up to 15.1 scoreless innings in a row, has won 5 of his last 6 starts and is the only one keeping the Indians afloat right now.

It was win #39 in majors for the HomeSide this year.

Lou Marson, who has caught all the innings in Carrasco's current streak, was 1 for 3 on the night.

In Houston, the Astros ended the Braves winning streak with an 8-3 win. Michael Bourn had a single, a walk, scored a run and stole his 27th base, and Sergio "Everyday" Escalona threw another scoreless inning (1 hit, 1 K, 1.74). Sergio has not allowed a run since May 27, making 10 appearances in that time.

Monday, June 13, 2011

streaky Ryno hot again

In what has been the streakiest season of Ryan Howard's career, Ryno is hot once again. He was 3 for 3 on Sunday, including the game winning hit in the 7th inning, and drove in 3 (53) of the Phillies' 4 runs in the 4-3 win over the Cubs. Mike Stutes (2.41) threw another 1-2-3 frame, using just 10 pitches, and striking out 2 of the 3 hitters.

In Toronto, Kyle Drabek's growing pains continue. After a good April, Kyle has been struggling with his latest adjustments and running in the red hot Red Sox did not help matters. Kyle made some bad pitches and some very good ones, but when you're hot, you're hot, and the Sox hit everything. Final line: 4 IP, 8 runs, 7 hits, 4 walks, as Boston prevailed, 14-1.

In Baltimore, the Orioles called on Alfredo Simon in the 2nd inning, with the bases loaded and 1 out and the big guy came on and kept his team in the game. One of those runners scored, but Simon went on and pitched 4 more innings and gave up 3 runs (only 1 earned) on 5 hits and 2 walks, striking out 3 and saving the bullpen. The Rays won the game, 9-6.

The Threshers have placed both Sebastian Valle and D'Arby Myers on the DL.

In Reading, after losing the game that was suspended the night before by the score of 13-4, the R-Phils won the regular game 2-0. Freddy Galvis homered in each game and now has 6 home runs on the year. Galvis, who won't turn 22 until November, is coming on strong at .259, with 10 doubles, 3 triples, 6 home runs, 8 stolen bases and 23 RBI. He has struck out only 37 times in 239 at bats. Tyler Cloyd pitched very well, going 5 innings and allowing just 1 run on 6 hits, NO walks, and 7 Ks. Justin DeFratus notched his 7th save.

Anthony Gose has been suspended by the Eastern League over an altercation with Bowie last Tuesday. Gose was ejected from the game for throwing a punch. In the meantime, Gose's team, the Fisher Cats dropped a 9-3 verdict to Richmond. Travis d'Arnaud (.313) had 2 hits for the Cats.

In San Antonio, Jonathan Villar had a double and a walk, scored a run and drove in another for Corpus Christi, but the Hooks lost to the Missions, 6-4..............In Zebulon, Quintin Berry had 2 hits, scored a run, drove a run in, and stole his 16th base, and Mike Costanzo homered for the Mudcats as Carolina beat Tennessee, 8-3..............In Huntsville, Jesus Sanchez threw 2.2 innings of scoreless relief (2 hits, 1 walk, 1 K) for the Stars in their 3-1 loss to Jackson.


In Albuquerque, the Isotopes outslugged the Nashville Sounds, 16-14. When you consider the score, Zack Segovia did damn well. Zack recorded 5 outs, and gave up just 1 hit in his stint. He also got a hit himself, a screaming line drive into right field in the top of the 5th. Way to go, Zack!............In Syracuse, Greg Golson had 2 hits, including a 2-RBI single in the 8th inning for what proved to be the winning runs in the Yankees' 5-4 win over the Chiefs..........In Allentown, the IronPigs won again, this time 6-1 over Louisville. Drew Carpenter and Scott Mathieson each threw a shut out inning.

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Bastardo rolls on!

The Phillies beat the Cubs Saturday afternoon, 7-1 behind another great game from Cliff Lee. Lee controlled the Cubbies all day, giving up just 4 hits, before giving the 9th inning to Antonio Bastardo. Bastardo, who has been nothing short of fantastic this season, set Chicago down 1-2-3. Check out these numbers: in 25 innings of work this year, Bastardo has given up just 3 runs on 11 hits (2 of which have been home runs, so except for 2 pitches, he is practically perfect) and 12 walks, and has struck out 30. He is 3-0, 2 for 2 in save opportunities and has and ERA of 1.08!

Ryan Howard had an RBI(#50) hit and scored a run, and Carlos Ruiz had 2 walks and also scored a run for Philadelphia.

In Houston, the Braves beat the Astros 6-3 in 10 innings. Michael Bourn had a triple and a walk and scored a run for the Astros, and Sergio "Everyday" Escalona came on in the 7th with 2 runners on and got 2 outs from 1 hitter, keeping the game tied at 2-2 at the time. Sergio used just 4 pitches (lowering his ERA to 1.93), which means he is probably available again today!............In New York, Bartolo Colon stopped the Indians on just 5 hits. Lou Marson had 1 of the hits for Cleveland, as well as picking off a runner at second, and throwing out 2 of 2 would-be base stealers.


In Daytona, the Daytona Cubs continue to be the obstacle that the Threshers cannot overcome. Clearwater held a 6-3 advantage going to the bottom of the 6th Saturday night, when the Cubs erupted for 6 runs en route to a 9-6 win. Jonathan Pettibone started for Clearwater, and put up 5 innings of work, allowing 3 runs on 8 hits and 3 walks, but left the game with the lead. Ebelin Lugo was the culprit, giving up all 6 runs on 6 hits in less than an inning. Leandro Castro, Darin Ruf and Troy Hanzawa all had 2 hits for the Threshers..........In Reading, the game was suspended after the top of the 3rd inning with Altoona all over the R-Phils, 11-1. J.C. Ramirez (5 runs, 6 hits, did not complete 1st inning) and Tyson Brummett (6 runs, 4 earned, 5 hits, 3 walks, in 2.1 IP) absorbed the punishment there.

Lehigh Valley's most successful season ever continues with an 8-7, 13-inning win over Louisville. Scott Mathieson had a rough day, coming in with 2 outs in the 7th and giving up 2 runs on 2 hits and a walk before recording that 3rd out. Mike Zagurski threw 2 shut out innings (1 hit, 1 walk, 2 Ks), and Mike Schwimer went the final 2 frames, picking up his 3rd win, and lowering his ERA to a very impressive 1.49.

In Midland, Texas, Jonathan Villar had a single, stole a base (#4 for Corpus Christi, #24 on the year) and scored 2 runs as the Hooks beat the Rock Hounds, 9-4..............In Omaha, Robinson Tejeda threw another scoreless inning for the Storm Chasers in their 6-4, 11-inning loss to Oklahoma City. That's 10.1 innings, NO earned runs, so what are the Royals waiting for? Bring him back up already!............In Indianapolis, Yohan Flande got the start for Gwinnett and was very good, throwing 6 shut out innings (2 hits, 2 walks, 5 Ks, 3.73) for the Braves in a game eventually won by the Indians, 1-0 with a run in the 9th.

Saturday, June 11, 2011

check it out

Great story about a paralyzed kid who was drafted by Texas this past week. Thanks to HomeSide contributor Lynn Hoffman for the heads up on this one.



Rangers draft Georgia outfielder Johnathan Taylor, who suffered partial paralysis in a game texasrangers.com: News

Friday's notes

Domonic Brown belted a 2-run home run and the Phillies ran out to a 7-0 lead, before holding on for a 7-5 win, the 9th win of the year for Roy Halladay. Ryan Howard also drove in a run (#49), and Carlos Ruiz added a hit. Mike Stutes came into a jam in the 8th inning and stranded 2 runners, then got the first 2 outs in the 9th, before Antonio Bastardo came on for the final hitter, who he struck out. For Stutes (2.55) , it was hold #3 and for Bastardo (1.13) , it was save #2.

In Houston, the Braves were all over the Astros, 11-4, but Michael Bourn had a big night. Mike (.286) had a single, 2 doubles and a triple, and scored 2 runs, as the only bright spot in the Houston line-up. Sergio Escalona (2.08) threw a 1-2-3 inning, picking up 1 K.

In Tampa, Julio Rodriguez threw another great game, going 7 shut out innings against the Yankees, allowing just 4 hits and 1 walk, striking out 5, to improve to 8-3, 2.41. Joe Esposito struck out the side in his inning, and Justin Friend picked up his 19th save, despite giving up 3 hits. Darin Ruf, Kyle Lafrenz, and Cesar Hernandez all had 2 hits in the Thresher's 2-0 win.

In Reading, it was B.J. Rosenberg's best game as a starter Friday against Altoona. "Rosie" went 7 shut out innings, giving up just 3 hits and 3 walks to post his 2nd win of the year, as the R-Phils beat the Curve, 4-0. Cody Overbeck had the only multi-hit game for Reading, going 2 for 4, including a 2-run home run, his league leading 18th.

In Pearl, Mississippi, Will Savage won his 7th game of the year for Chattanooga in the Lookout's 3-2 win over the Braves. Will went 6.2 innings, allowing 2 runs on 7 hits, NO walks, and struck out 4. Also in the Southern League, Darren Byrd has been placed on the DL by the Huntsville Stars, and this morning Joe Bisenius has been promoted by the White Sox from AA Birmingham to AAA Charlotte.


In Omaha, Robinson Tejeda continues to pitch well, Friday he went 2 more scoreless inning for the Storm Chasers (1 walk, 1 K) and has not allowed an earned run in 9.1 innings of work for the Royals affiliate.........In Albuquerque, Zack Segovia has seemed to get it together for Nashville, retiring 5 hitters for the Sounds in their 7-6 loss to the Isotopes. Zack allowed 1 hit, and struck out 3, and has allowed just 1 earned run in his last 9 innings of work........In Allentown, the Durham Bulls beat the IronPigs, 6-0. Chance Chapman has settled into the Pigs bullpen, throwing 2 scoreless frames for Lehigh Valley, striking out 3 and giving up 2 hits and R.J. Swindel recorded 1 out while walking 1 for Durham.

And finally, while the Lakewood BlueClaws are mired in an 8-game losing streak, Friday was another very impressive outing for Garrett Claypool. The former UCLA hurler went 6 more shut out innings last night, only to have no decision again as the Claws were shut out also. Claypool has been excellent this year, with no luck and no run support. His 2.69 ERA is among the best in the league, but he has gotten just 1 win, and if he wanted to sue the offense for lack of support, he would win in any court in the land!!

Hang in there, Garrett and keep up the great work!

Friday, June 10, 2011

short and sweet

Lacking for time, here it is, short and sweet-

Tough game for Phillies last night, BUT Kyle Kendrick gave us 3 good shut out innings before the rain came, and Mike Stutes and Antonio Bastardo got 2 outs each, so we got a total of 4.1 shut out innings in a game the team lost, 4-3. Carlos Ruiz was 1 for 2 in the game, and Ryan Howard and Domonic Brown each walked 2 times.

In Houston, the Cardinals battered Jay Happ for 6 runs on 6 hits and 2 walks in 5.1 innings as St Louis took a 9-2 win. Sergio Escalona made his cameo, using 2 pitches to get his out. (The Astros use him for an inning or less often, which usually makes him available everyday. It is a nice little niche he has fit into.) Michael Bourn was 1 for 4 and was actually thrown out stealing for only the 3rd time this year, in 29 attempts.

In Allentown, John Mayberry hit a walk off home run in the bottom of the 9th to give the IronPigs a 6-5 win over Durham. The knock made a winner of Mike Zagurski, who had thrown a 1-2-3 inning in the top half. In the 6th inning, R.J. Swindel came on for Durham, and recorded one out, keeping the game tied at 5-5 at the time..........In Reading, Ryan Edell pitched 7.2 strong innings for the R-Phils, allowing just 1 run on 5 hits to pick up his 5th win. Home runs by Tim Kennelly (a 2-run shot in the 7th to give Reading a 2-1 advantage) and back-to-back shot by Matt Rizzotti (#11) and Cody Overbeck (league leading 17th) in the 8th sealed the deal in a 4-1 Reading victory. Justin DeFratus got the final 4 outs for his 6th save.

In Scranton, Greg Golson (.273) a single, a double, 2 walks, RBI for Yankees

In Midland, Texas, Jonathan Villar (.241 since promotion) double, walk, 2 RBI stolen base for Corpus Christi

In Manchester, Travais d'Arnaud (.312) double, home run #6, RBI, 2 runs scored and Anthony Gose (.253) single, double, RBI, stolen base #28

Thursday, June 9, 2011

nice article

There is a very nice article on Anthony Gose on milb.com. If you go to the Eastern League page on the site, the article will be circulating in the news window.

4 Threshers selected as stars

The Clearwater Threshers will send 4 players to the 50th FSL All-Star game to be played in Clearwater. Jonathan Pettibone and Julio Rodriguez will represent the rotation, Justin Friend will be among the closers and Sebastion Valle, leading the league with a .357 average will be the starting catcher.

Savage an all star

The Southern League has announced their all star selections, and Chattanooga's Will Savage was among the pitchers selected. Will is 6-2 with a 3.47 ERA for the Lookouts.

In Cleveland Wednesday afternoon, Lou Marson had 2 hits for the Indians in their 3-2, 10 inning loss to the Twins..........In Houston, Michael Bourn had an RBI pinch hit single in the 8th inning of the Astros 4-1 win over St. Louis. Mike then stole his major league leading 26th base.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

no decision for Floyd

Wednesday night, Chicago-

Gavin Floyd worked hard for 6 innings, throwing 110 pitches for the White Sox as they battle the Mariners. Floyd gave up 3 runs on 5 hits and 3 walks (and a plunk), and left the game trailing 3-1. The Sox have come back to tie it at 4-4 playing the 9th inning now, getting Floyd off the hook.

Hamels wins 8th

Wednesday night, Philadelphia-

Cole Hamels great run continued in Philadelphia Wednesday night and the Phillies defeated the Dodgers, 2-0. Hamels, who has been great so far this year, went 8 shut out innings, allowing 6 hits, NO walks, and struck out 9 to improve to 8-2 on the year. Ryan Howard hit his 13th home run of the year, and Domonic Brown drove in the other run for Philadelphia.

The victory was #38 for the HomeSide this year.

Outman not good enough

Wednesday night, Baltimore-

The Orioles defeated Josh Outman and the Athletics, 3-2 in Camden Yard. Josh went 6 innings, allowing 3 runs on 5 hits, most of them bunched together in the 3-run 5th inning rally by the Orioles. He did not walk a man, striking out 4, and falling to 1-1, 4.15 in 4 starts for Oakland.

Lakewood has 5 all stars

The streaky BlueClaws wrapped up their road trip with another loss, 10-3 to Hickory, and have lost 6 straight now, but good news surrounds the club as 5 members of Lakewood's team have been selected to the All-Star game in 2 weeks in Delmarva. David Buchanan (7-2, 2.15) has been selected to start the game, and he will be joined by pitchers Garrett Claypool and Lisalberto Bonilla, as well as first baseman Jim Murphy and outfielder Anthony Hewitt.

The HomeSide congratulates all of our guys on their selection and wishes all of them good luck!!

Mitchell's walk off beats Trenton

In Reading, Derrick Mitchell hit his 9th home run of the year, a 2-run walk-off in the bottom of the 9th inning to give Reading a 4-2 win over Trenton (finally). Mitchell also had a double and a walk, and his steadily rising batting average is up to .275 now. Mike Spidale (.333) also had 2 hits and a walk for Reading. Tyler Cloyd made his first start for the R-Phils, going 5 innings and allowing 2 runs on 4 hits and 1 walk, striking out 4. Jordan Ellis added 2 scoreless frames, and Phillippe Aumont was in the right place to pick up his first win when Mitchell went deep.


In Allentown, the Durham Bulls pounded the IronPigs, 8-2. The good news is Chance Chapman threw 3 scoreless frames in relief (2 hits, 2walks, 2 Ks) and Drew Carpenter (1.98) added 2 more (1 hit, 2 Ks)........In Iowa City, Robinson Tejeda threw another 1.1 innings of scoreless relief for Omaha as the Storm Chasers beat the Cubs, 8-6. Robinson has allowed no earned runs in 7.1 innings in AAA this year............In Colorado Springs, Michael Taylor (.321) had 2 hits, including his 3rd home run of the year, driving in 2 runs for Sacramento in their 12-9 loss to the Sky Sox. Adrian Cardenas (.343) also had 2 hits and a walk, scoring a run and driving in another. I was surprised and disappointed when the Athletics needed an infielder earlier this week and selected Jemile Weeks instead of Adrian.



In Jacksonville, Joe Bisenius made his best start so far for Birmingham, throwing 6 shut out innings against the Suns. "Bis" (2.70) allowed just 4 hits and 2 walks, striking out 7 and receiving no decision in the Baron's 3-2 win...........In Altoona, Mike Dubee recorded his 6th hold of the year, throwing 1.2 innings of relief for the Curve, giving up 2 hits, as the Curve topped Erie, 10-5. Mike has given up just 1 earned run in his last 11.2 innings........In Manchester, Travis d'Arnaud (.308) was 3 for 4 for the Fisher Cats, who lost to Bowie, 8-2. Anthony Gose was pinch hit for after 1 at bat, I am checking to see if he is alright.


In Clearwater, the Threshers were shut out on 4 hits, 6-0 by Tampa. Sebastian Valle and Cesar Hernandez had 2 hits each for Clearwater, and that was it.

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Drabek fights his way to a win

Tuesday night, Kansas City-

Kyle Drabek made it 2 wins on the HomeSide Tuesday with a gutty 5.1 inning performance against the Royals. Kyle benefited from good run support and booked the win despite giving up 5 runs on 9 hits and 3 walks.Kyle is usually successful when keeping the ball down, but the Royals did a good job tonight going down and getting well pitched balls. So the Blue Jays offense carries him to the 8-5 win, evening Drabek's mark at 4-4, 4.98 so far in his rookie season.

This win combined with Carrasco's (see below) gives the HomeSide 37 major league wins.

Carrasco pitches gem

Tuesday night, Cleveland-

In the best performance in his still young career, Carlos Carrasco showed why people think he can be a very good major league pitcher, throwing 8.1 shut out innings against the Twins as the Indians ended their losing streak, 1-0. Carlos (5-3, 4.52) allowed only 3 hits and 1 walk, and got out of the 1 jam he was in with a pop-up and a strike out. He threw 104 pitches, 72 for strikes, and left the game to roaring ovation from the Indian faithful. He stayed down in the zone all night with his fastball, and that slider has become a great weapon for him. The victory is the 4th in his last 5 starts.

Here we go now, Carlos!!

Monday, June 6, 2011

Sunday's notes

In Pittsburgh, the Phillies snapped their 4 game losing streak with a 7-3 win over the Pirates. Domonic Brown (.304) had a single and a double, and Ryan Howard had 2 hits and a walk and drove in 3 runs (46 RBI) for the Phillies. Carlos Ruiz also added an RBI, and Antonio Bastardo (1.23) recorded 2 outs, picking up his 4th hold...........In Baltimore, Alfredo Simon pitched effectively in relief for the Orioles, throwing 2 innings and allowing just 1 run on 2 hits and 1 walk, striking out 3 in Baltimore's 7-4 loss to the Jays...........In San Diego, Michael Bourn had a hit and a walk, and stole 2 more bases (that's 27) for the Astros in their 7-2 loss to the Padres. Sergio Escalona picked up 2 more outs, walking 1, pushing his ERA down to 2.57.

The Phillies have also sent John Mayberry back to Lehigh Valley. The poor guy has been back and forth a couple of times this past few days. The team has not announced the corresponding roster move at this time.

For the second time in less than a week, 2 former Claws homered in the same game outside the Phillies system, as Adrian Cardenas and Michael Taylor both went deep for Sacramento in the River Cats' 12-10 win over the Sky Sox in Colorado Springs. Taylor (.329) also had a walk, scored a run and drove 1 in, and Cardenas (.338) was 3 for 4 (also a walk) overall, scoring 2 runs and driving in 4...........In New Orleans, Zack Segovia threw 2 shut out innings for Nashville in the Sounds' 7-1 win over the Zephyrs. Zack is pitching a little better these days, having allowed just 1 earned run over his last 7.2 innings of work for the Milwaukee affiliate. Jesus Merchan was 1 for 4 for New Orleans, a single off Segovia.........In Rochester, Andy Baldwin made a quality start for the Red Wings, throwing 6 innings against Norfolk, giving up 2 runs on 6 hits and 1 walk, striking out 5. Andy (3-5, 4.97) left the game in a 3-3 tie and recieved no decision.............In Scranton, Greg Golson was 1 for 4 and scored a run for the Yankees in their 3-2 win over Toledo.......In Durham, R.J. Swindel came into another close game and retired both hitters he faced in Durham's 5-4 win over Pawtucket.


In Chattanooga, Will Savage pitched his way to his 6th win of the season for the Lookouts, in a 10-4 victory over the Mudcats. Savage went 7 good innings, allowing 2 earned runs on just 4 hits and 2 walks, striking out 5 to improve to 6-2, 3.47.......In Trenton, the Thunder completed the sweep of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, 5-2 to tie New Hampshire for first place. Anthony Gose had a walk and 2 more stolen bases (27) for the Cats, and Travis d'Arnuad was 1 for 4........In Altoona, Mike Dubee threw a scoreless frame for the Curve in Portland's 12-4 victory.


In Charlotte, the IronPigs beat the Knights, 4-2. Scott Mathieson picked up his 4th save throwing 2 scoreless frames to finish it off for first-place Lehigh Valley.

In Richmond, the Flying Squirrels beat Reading, 6-4. B.J. Rosenberg was the starter for Reading and gave up 3 runs on 7 hits in just 4 innings of work. Tyson Brummett came into the tie game and was charged with 2 runs on 3 hits in his 3 innings of work, and was saddled with the loss. Jordan Ellis gave up a run on 2 hits in his inning. Freddy Galvis (.254, single, double, 2 runs scored), Matt Rizzotti (.323, 2 RBI) and Mike Spidale (.318, run) all had 2 hits for the R-Phils.

In Clearwater, Dunedin topped the Threshers, 3-1. Joe Esposito made the spot start and after 3 scoreless inning gave up 3 in the 4th and that was the ballgame. Ebeilin Lugo did throw 2 shut out innings to wrap it up for Clearwater. Fidel Hernandez and Brian Gump had 2 hits each for the Threshers.

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Cosart scratched from today's start

Jarred Cosart (6-3, 2.76) has been scratched for Clearwater today, the report says he has a blister. Joe Esposito (2-1, 1.91 in 16 relief appearances) will make the emergency start, his first of the season, this afternoon against Dunedin.

The Threshers are 36-20, and have made up 3 games in 3 days to pull to within 4 games of first place Daytona. There are 11 games left in the first half, including the big 3-game showdown in Daytona next Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

here and there

In Charlotte, the Knights pounded the IronPigs, 8-1. Drew Carpenter (2.10) threw 2 scoreless innings (3 hits, 3 Ks), and Chance Chapman allowed 2 runs on 3 hits in his inning. Chapman has pitched in 13 games for the Pigs, 2-2, 4.88, giving up 27 hits in 24 innings. He has struck out 19 and walked only 7. Chance is progressing well, and just needs a little more consistency to find his way to the majors.

In Scranton, Greg Golson came off the DL and played in his first game in over a month, going 1 for 4 in the Yankees 7-3 loss to Toledo. This morning, the IronPigs are in first place, 4 games ahead of both Scranton and Pawtucket, who beat Durham, 7-1.

Elsewhere, I noticed that Adrian Cardenas played left field for Sacramento last night, as the River Cats beat Sky Sox in Colorado Springs. Cardenas, who was 0 for 4 to slip to .330, has been playing in the infield most of his career. In fact, this was the first time I have noticed him in the outfield.


In Richmond, Derrick Mitchell had 3 of Reading's 8 hits, including his 8th home run of the season, and the R-Phils wasted a nice pitching performance from Ryan Edell and dropped a 3-2 decision to the Flying Squirrels. Edell went 6, and gave up only 1 run, before yielding to Chris Kissock, who threw a scoreless 7th. Phillippe Aumont lost it, allowing 2 hits, making a throwing error and throwing a wild pitch. E-Gads!!

In Trenton, the Thunder continue to be the hot team, this time defeating first place New Hampshire 4-3 in 10 innings top move within 1 game of the Fisher Cats. Anthony Gose was 1 for 5, with an RBI and his 25th stolen base........In Chattanooga, Quintin Berry (.301) had a walk, an RBI-single during the 4-run, game deciding rally, scored 2 runs and stole his 14th base as the Mudcats beat the Lookouts, 7-6. Berry and the Mudcats will face Will Savage (5-2, 3.58) this afternoon.............In Mobile, Jesus Sanchez' problems continue for the Huntsville Stars. After making 9 starts, Sanchez has been moved to the pen, and has not adjusted yet. Yesterday he gave up 4 runs (3 earned) on 6 hits including 2 home runs in just 2 innings of work, giving the ball to Darren Byrd with 2 on and nobody out in the 8th. Bryd let both runners score before retiring the side and Bay Bears topped the Stars, 5-0. Not so good for either of our boys there.

In Clearwater, 5 different Threshers had 2 hits each and Julio Rodriguez won his 7th game of the year, as the Threshers beat Dunedin, 11-5. Not the greatest of outings for Rodriguez, but he benefited from Clearwater's 8 run 5th inning. J-Rod went 5 inning, allowing 4 runs, and 2 hits and 5 walks. (This makes up for pitching a great game and getting no support sometimes) Mike McGuire, who had been on Lakewood's DL most of the year, was activated this week and assigned to Clearwater, and made his first appearance Saturday. He recorded 7 outs, 4 Ks, allowing just 1 hit, before Derrick Loop came on for the final 5 outs. Loop (0.99 ERA) allowed a run, the first he has surrendered since May 6.

Brian Gump (single, double), Darin Ruf (2 doubles, 3 RBI), Jeremy Barnes, Kyle Lafrenz (RBI)and Cesar Hernandez (2 RBI) all had 2 hits for Clearwater, and Jonathan Singleton had a hit and 3 walks, drove in a run and scored 3 times.

major league notes

The Philadelphia-Allentown shuttle made another exchange after the game Saturday with Mike Zagurski returning to the IronPigs and David Herndon brought back to the big club. John Mayberry has also been recalled after playing 1 game with Lehigh Valley, replacing Ross Gload, who was granted parental leave. This leaves us with 16 HomeSiders currently active in the major leagues right now.

In Pittsburgh, Kyle Kendrick made the spot start in Joe Blanton's slot in the rotation, and Kyle gave the team 5 innings, allowing 4 runs on 8 hits and NO walks, absorbing the 8-3 loss. Kendrick threw 76 pitches, 50 for strikes, and is now 3-4, 3.78 on the year. (Zagurski threw a scoreless inning before being optioned later) Domonic Brown a walk, a single and an RBI, and Ryan Howard drove in his 43rd run of the year as the Phillies dropped their 4th straight.

In Cleveland, the Rangers beat the Indians again Saturday 4-0. Lou Marson was 0 for 3 and has seen his average drop to .192. After a good start, Lou has once again struggled with his hitting not getting regular at bats. Lou has hit well at every level I have seen him play, but he was usually playing everyday. In the meantime, the Indians fate has declined with Marson's batting average. After that wonderful 20-8 beginning, the Tribe is just 13-15 in their last 28 games, and still in first place at this time. They are probably not as good as they looked in April, and not as woeful as they are looking now.

In San Diego, Michael Bourn (.275) had 2 doubles and drove in a run for Houston, but the Padres beat the Astros, 6-3. The Astros (23-36), I am afraid, are as bad as they look.

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Worley, Hyatt very sharp

Vance Worley threw 2-hit shut out ball for 6 innings in Charlotte Friday night to record his 3rd win for IronPigs in his first start since being sent back. Vance walked 1 and struck out 9 in the Pigs' 5-1 win. In Richmond, Austin Hyatt went Worley 1 better, going 7 shut out innings in the R-Phils 5-0 win over the Flying Squirrels. Austin gave up 4 hits and 1 walk, picking up 8 strike outs to notch his 6th win for Reading. Recently promoted Tyler Cloyd made his first appearance with a scoreless frame and Justin De Fratus matched it. Derrick Mitchell and Mike Spidale drove in 2 runs each.

In Clearwater, Sebastian Valle singled home Leandro Castro in the bottom of the 10th inning to give the Threshers a 5-4 win over St. Lucie. Castro had 2 hits on the night, including a 2 run home run in the 7th to give Clearwater a 4-3 advantage. Jonathan Singleton and Troy Hanzawa also had 2 hits each, and Jiwan James led off the 1st inning with his 3rd dinger of the season. Brody Colvin started and went 7 strong innings, allowing just 3 runs on 8 hits, NO walks, and 5 Ks. Eric Pettis blew the save, allowing the first run since his promotion (a total of 15 innings over 9 games), and Justin Friend (1.07) picked up the win.

In Sacramento, Adrian Cardenas (.337) had a walk and a hit, and drove in a run for the River Cats in their 2-1 win over Salt Lake.......In Durham, the Pawtucket Red Sox beat the Bulls, 6-3. R.J. Swindel pitched the final 2 innings for Durham (1 walk, 1 K). R.J. has given up just 2 runs on 4 hits and 4 walks over his last 12 innings for the Bulls.

In Jacksonville, Quintin Berry was not in the starting line-up for the Carolina Mudcats. But in the 9th inning of a 1-0 game, Berry came on as a pinch runner, and promptly stole second base to put the tying run in scoring position. It was his 13th steal this year, and with only 1 out, 2 Mudcats failed to bring Berry home.

just not our day

HomeSiders have made 5 starts in the 3 days since our last major league win, and here is a quick synopsis of the carnage:

First, there was Kyle Drabek not getting out of the 1st inning against Cleveland the other night, which we have already talked about.

Then, there was Carlos Carrasco against the Rangers on Thursday. Carlos was fantastic through 4 innings, throwing just 39 pitches and coasting with a 3-0 lead. Then for the next 2 innings, he could not keep his pitches down enough, from curves to change ups, everything was up in the strike zone and the Rangers jumped all over him for 3 in the 5th and 2 more in the 6th en route to a 7-4 win.

Friday was a trifecta of chances gone astray. In Boston, the Athletics jumped on the Red Sox for 4 first inning runs and before Josh Outman threw a pitch, he had a big lead. Josh gave up a pair of runs in the bottom of the first, but it all seemed to change in the 2nd. After retiring the lead-off hitter, Josh got Mike Cameron to ground to third, but Kevin Kouzmanoff threw it away for a 2-base error. Then Outman struck out Jarrod Saltalamacchia on a wicked curveball that eluded catcher Kurt Sazuki, and instead of being out of the inning, there was first and third and only 1 out. While Josh got out of that inning with only 1 unearned run scoring, he never was the same after that and left before the 3rd inning was over. In all, 2.2 IP, 5 runs (4 earned) 5 hits, 1 walk, no decision in 8-6 win for the Sox.

In Pittsburgh, Cole Hamels was pitching much better than Outman, but it would not yield results either. In fact, Hamels was spectacular for 8 innings, in which he gave up 1 run on just 1 hit and 3 walks, but left the game in a 1-1 tie. He also got 2 of the Phillies' 6 hits. That was 2 more than Ryan Howard, Domonic Brown and Carlos Ruiz combined. Antonio Bastardo (1.27), who has been pitching in the close games in the pressure situations, came on and got 3 outs, before yielding to Mike Stutes (1.84),who got the next 4. I cannot say enough about these 2 young guys and the jobs they are doing out of the Philadelphia bullpen!! Both of them used to be starters, and I could see Stutes being converted back in a year or 2 if needed. Of course, I used to say that about Ryan Madson also! O, I almost forgot, the Pirates scored off Danys Beaz in the 12th to win it, 2-1.

And then in San Diego, Jay Happ- who just cannot get enough run support- pitched well, but not well enough in the Astros' 3-1 loss to the Padres. Happ went 6 innings, gave up 3 runs on 6 hits and 2 walks, but that lack of run support tagged him with another loss. He has certainly pitched better than his 3-7 mark would indicate. Michael Bourn had a hit and his 23rd stolen base, tops in the majors!

One more note, before the game yesterday, the Phillies sent John Mayberry back to Lehigh Valley to make room for Shane Victorino on the roster.

Friday, June 3, 2011

May Day! Trevor fans 12!

The game Trevor May fans have been waiting for arrived yesterday as the big right hander threw a dominant game against St. Lucie. May went 8 innings and allowed only an UNearned run on just 2 hits and 1 walk, striking out 12 to record his 4th win of the year in Clearwater's 7-1 win. Sebastian Valle (.357) had 4 hits for Clearwater, including a double and a triple, Leandro Castro (.289) picked up 3 hits, and Jiwan James and Joe Savery (.345) chipped in with 2 hits each.


Though not nearly as dramatic as Wednesday's walk off in his debut, Jonathan Villar had a single and scored the only run for Corpus Christi in the Hooks' 8-1 loss to Springfield. Villar is 3 for 9 in 2 games with the Hooks..........There was some drama in Birmingham, however, where Joe Bisenius struggled with his control in his start for the Barons. "Bis" allowed 3 runs on 3 hits-but 7 walks (along with a hit batter and a balk) sealed his doom, as he only made it through 3 innings in Birmingham's 8-6 win over Chattanooga..........In Trenton, the Altoona Curve beat the Thunder, 5-1. Mike Dubee (2.76) threw 2 scoreless innings to finish it off for Altoona............In Harrisburg, Anthony Gose had 2 walks, 2 stolen bases (24), and 2 RBI as the New Hampshire Fisher Cats continue their good play by beating the Senators, 10-5. The dynamic duo of former Claws Gose and Travis d'Arnaud have been forefront in New Hampshire's run to first place.

The good news from Reading is Tim Kennelly had 3 hits, including a double, scored a run and drove home 2 more, but the bad news is Reading managed just 3 more hits in the game and fell to Akron, 8-4. The bright spot on the mound was Tyson Brummett, who relieved an ineffective J.C.Ramirez (7 runs, 6 hits, 5 walks in just 4 innings) with 3 shut out innings of 1 walk, 5 K ball to keep Reading within range, but they just could not get it going offensively.

In a wild one in Nashville, the Sounds outscored the Iowa Cubs, 15-11. Considering the run scoring that went on , Zack Segovia fared pretty well, allowing just 1 run in 2 innings of work for Nashville. You also got treated to strange one if you were in Omaha, where the New Orleans Zephyrs exploded all over the Storm Chasers, 22-7! (if you ask me, going for 2 on that last touchdown was overkill!!) Jesus Merchan had 3 hits, including a double and scored 2 runs for New Orleans.

In more of a normal game in Durham, the Columbus Clippers took a 2-1 10-inning victory from the Bulls. R.J. Swindel retired 4 of the 5 hitters he faced for Durham, 1 walk, 1 K.............In Gwinnett, Lehigh Valley shut out the Braves, 4-0. Scott Mathieson tossed the final 2 frames, 1 hit, 3 Ks, to record a save, his 3rd for the IronPigs.

The Indianapolis Indians have place Jason Jaramillo on the DL.

In a move that completely baffles me, the Phillies have moved Fidel Hernandez, who is hitting .307 for Reading, playing everyday at second base since Harold Garcia got hurt, back to Clearwtaer, where a confused Fidel is 0 for 16 in 5 games since being moved.