d'Arnaud to Mets

It appears the Mets have traded Cy Young Award winner  R.A. Dickey to Toronto, in a 7-player deal.  Included in the deal is 23-year old Travis d'Arnaud, one of my favorite HomeSiders.  The deal is contingent on Dickey signing a contract extension by Tuesday.

Cosart to close?

Jarred Cosart, who was expecting to compete for a job in the Astros rotation this spring, may be a candidate for their closer spot.  Whatever gets you to the show!!


Jarred Cosart ready for any role Astros ask him to fill | MLB.com: News

Donald to Reds

The Cleveland Indians, Arizona Diamondbacks and Cincinnati Reds made a 3-way, 9 player deal that will send former BlueClaw Jason Donald from the Indians to the Reds.

Bonilla to Texas

The Phillies have sent Josh Lindblom and former BlueClaw Lisalberto Bonilla to the Texas Rangers in exchange for infielder Michael Young.

Worley, May dealt to Minnesota

The Phillies have traded Vance Worley and Trevor May to the Minnesota Twins for outfielder Ben Revere.   Revere is 24 years old and has a lifetime .278 average.

Worley should fit right into the Twins' rotation, and  May could have a shot a winning a job in spring training, as Twins like to go with young pitchers.

Z-Man to Bucs

The Pittsburgh Pirates have signed Mike Zagurski and invited him to spring training with the team.

3 HomeSiders put on Phillies roster

The Phillies added 4 minor leaguers, 3 former BlueClaws, to their 40-man roster last week.  Zack Collier, Jonathan Pettibone and Trevor May were put on the list, along with pitcher Ethan Martin.  With the suspension of Carlos Ruiz for the first 25 games of the year, the Phillies now have 37 active players on the list.  17 of them are former Claws.

Jarred Cosart and Jonathan Villar were added to the Astros list.  Houston, in the AL West now, still has 3 openings and I expect Jonathan Singleton will get 1 of them.

The team with the most HomeSiders outside of the Phillies is Toronto.  If healthy, Jay Happ and Kyle Drabek could both be in the rotation, and as of now, it seems Travis d'Arnaud will be given a chance to fight for a major league job.  In a suddenly very crowded Toronto outfield, the addition of Melky Cabrera to an already strong tandem of Rajai Davis and Jose Bautista,  it would seem Anthony Gose would have a tough time getting to play.  But these things have a way of working themselves out, so I am not counting Anthony out of it just yet!!

Tuffy ties knot!

Congratualtions to Tuffy Gosewisch, who was married this weekend!!  Tuffy will be headed to camp this spring with the Diamondbacks.

The Blue Jay have resigned Bobby Korecky, and given him an invitation to major league camp.

Bourn free!

Michael Bourn has elected to become a free agent and is on the market and available for the bidding to begin.

Carrasco activated

Today the Cleveland Indians activated Carlos Carrasco from the 60-day DL, and the Houston Astros sent Sergio Escalona outright to Oklahoma City.

Cosart to start AFL Rising Stars game

Jarred Cosart has been named to start the Rising Star All Star Game in the AFL Saturday night on MLBN.  Cosart and Astros teammate Jonathan Singleton will play for the "East", while Phillies prospects Cody Asche and Tommy Joseph will suit up for the "West" squad.

The game begins at 8:00, so set your DVR!

Panda gives Giants early edge

Pablo Sandoval's 3 home runs and a sub par outing from Justin Verlander led a an 8-3 Giants win in Game 1 of the World Series.  Quintin Berry had a pinch hit appearance against Tim Lincicum, and grounded out.  "Q" is likely to sit again tonight, as the Giants throw another lefty, Madison Bumgarner, in game 2.

Brummett waived & claimed

The Phillies have waived Tyson Brummett, and he has been claimed by the Toronto Blue Jays, where he joins Anthony Gose, Jay Happ, Kyle Drabek, Travis d'Arnaud, and Tuffy Gosewisch.    They are becoming the BlueClaw Jays!

The Brewers have added Jesus Sanchez to their 40-man roster.

Verlander's gem moves Tigers to 3-0

The Detroit Tigers beat the Yankees, 2-1 Tuesday night behind a solid effort from Justin Verlander to take a 3-0 lead in the ALCS.  While not quite at his best, Verlander threw 132 pitches and stopped the Yankees cold, giving up just 3 hits in 8.1 hard fought innings.  Quintin Berry was 1 for 3, and reached base in the 5th inning on an error.    "Q" then stole second base and scored what proved to be the winning run on a hit by Miguel Cabrera.  The Tigers go for the sweep tonight in game 4.

Berry, Tigers push Yanks to the brink

Sunday in New York, Quintin Berry was 1 for 3, a double and scored the first run of the game in the 7th inning, as the Detroit Tigers beat the Yankees, 3-0 to take a commanding 2-0 lead in the American League Championship Series.  The Tigers head home and will have Justin Verlander set to go in game 3 on Tuesday.

In San Francisco, the St Louis Cardinals took a 1-0 lead in the National League Championship Series with a 6-4 win over the Giants.  They will play game #2 tonight.

Tigers take game 1 from Yanks

The Tigers survived a scare in the Bronx Saturday night as the Yankees rallied for 4 in the 9th to tie the game, but Detroit won in 12, 6-4.  Quintin Berry got into the game last , and was 0 for 2.  Berry should be in the line up this afternoon with the Yankees throwing a right hander.

Tigers, Giants advance

The Detroit Tigers are heading back to the American League Championship Series thanks to another knockout performance from Justin Verlander, who threw a complete game, 4-hit shut out to eliminate the A's, 6-0 in Oakland last night. Quintin Berry (3 for 10 in the series) had a double, a walk, and scored a run for the Tigers, who will face the winner of the Yankees-Orioles game 5 showdown in New York tonight.

In Cincinnati, the Giants completed the comeback from down 2 games to beat the Reds and advance into the National League Championship Series.  Buster Posey had the big hit, a grand slam home run to top off the 6-run inning that gave San Francisco the 6-4 victory.  The Giants will play the winner of Nationals-Cardinals do or die game tonight in D.C.

Brown has MRI

Domonic Brown was to have an MRI on his injured right knee in Philadelphia Thursday.  Domonic played through some discomfort in the latter part of the season, and the test is a precaution to make sure there is no ligament damage.  The Phillies ecpect him to be ready to go for spring training.

I have not heard of the results of this test as yet.

Phils name Nichols for pitching coach spot

The Phillies have named original Lakewood pitching coach Rod Nichols as their new pitching coach for 2013.  Former IronPigs manager Ryne Sandberg has been named the new third base coach, and Steve Henderson will take over as the hitting instructor.

Berry plays key role in Tigers game 1 win!

The Tigers won game 1 of their divisional series with the Athletics, 3-1, behind great pitching from Justin Verlander.  Quintin Berry had 2 hits, including an infield hit that allowed a rally to continue and the Tigers to score the go ahead run!  "Q" also stole a base, but probably sits in game 2 with Oakland throwing lefty Tommy Milone.

On Friday, Michael Bourn was 1 for 5 with an RBI for the Braves in their wild card loss to the Cardinals.  As of now, Michael has no contract for next year and as soon as the playoff end, the bidding for his services will begin!

Brummett debuts!

On Wednesday, the Washington Nationals wrapped up the best record in the NL with a 5-1 win over the Phillies.  In this game Tyson Brummett made his major league debut, throwing the final .2 innings.  Brummett is the 10th former Claw to make his debut this year, and #49 overall, allowing 2 hits and striking out 2.  Justin De Fratus also tossed a scoreless frame and the Phillies lone run was driven in by Darin Ruf with a sacrifice fly, his 10th RBI.  Carlos Ruiz had a double and scored the Phillies' run, and finished the season with a .325 mark, tops ever for a former Claw in the majors!

In Pittsburgh, Michael Bourn had a walk, and scored a run for the Braves in their 4-0 win over the Pirates.  Bourn also stole 2 bases, and his 42 this year leads the National League for the 3rd time in his career!!  The Braves open the playoffs with the wild card game against the Cardinals tomorrow at 5:00PM. ...........In Chicago, Adrian Cardenas got to start for the Cubs, and had 2 walks in 5 plate appearances as the Cubs wrapped up a woeful season with a 5-4 win over Houston in the Astros final game in the National League.  Houston moves to the AL West next season.

In Cleveland, Gavin Floyd ended 2012 on a high note, with 7 shut out innings against the Indians in a 9-0 Sox win.  Gavin (12-12) allowed just 3 hits and 2 walks, striking out 6, and running the HomeSide total to 71 for the year!  Jason Donald and Lou Marson combined to go 0 for 5 in the game for the Tribe.......In Toronto, Anthony Gose was 1 for 3, a triple, and scored a run for the Jays in their 2-1 season ending win over Minnesota......In Phoenix, Josh Outman picked up his 3rd hold for the Rockies, throwing .2 innings against the Diamondbacks in a 2-1 Colorado win.


Congratulations to Miguel Cabrera, triple crown winner in the American League!! It was the first triple crown since 1967!!

Ruf hits 2; J.D. walks off!

Tuesday night in Washington, Darin Ruf hit 2 home runs for the Philliles in their 4-2 loss to the Nationals, raising his average to .355 in 31 at bats in this late season audition, probably earning himself an invite to big league camp in the spring!  Domonic Brown (.240) was 1 for 4, and BJ Rosenberg made it through 4 innings in his first major league start.  "Rosie" allowed just 1 run on 3 hits and 2 walks, throwing 54 pitches.  Jake Diekman tossed a scoreless 5th inning, despite allowing 2 hits, and Antonio Bastardo gave up a run on a hit and a walk in the 8th.  The Phillies (81-80) end their season tonight against the Nationals.

Another day, another walk off hit, this time it was Jason Donald in the bottom of the 12th inning with his second hit of the game to give the Indians a 4-3 win over Chicago.  Jason had a double and scored a run in his other at bat for the Tribe, while Lou Marson went 0 for 2 for Cleveland.

In Toronto, Anthony Gose had 2 walks and scored a run for the Blue Jays in their 4-3 win over Minnesota.......In Pittburgh,  Michael Bourn was 0 for 3 for Atlanta, as the Braves fell to the Pirates, 5-1.........In Kansas City, Quintin Berry had a hit and scored a run for the Tigers in their 4-2 loss to the Royals.

Rosenberg to make start

The Phillies have tapped BJ Rosenberg to start tonight's game in Washington.  It will be the first major league start for Rosenberg after he made a handful in AAA late this season.

The White Sox have announced that Gavin Floyd (11-11) will start their final game on Wednesday night in Cleveland.

Gose nets game winner!

Monday night in Toronto, Anthony Gose had the game wining hit, a walk off single in the bottom of the 10th inning to give the Jays a 6-5 win over the Minnesota Twins.


In Washington, Kyle Kendrick won his final outing of the season with 7 shut out innings against the Nationals as the Phillies won, 2-0.  Kendrick (11-12, 3.96) allowed just 4 hits and 1 walk and Darin Ruf drove in both runs with a 2-run triple in the 2nd inning.  Ruf has 9 hits, and 7 RBI in just 27 at bats since his call up!  Justin De Fratus recorded his 5th hold with .2 innings of work, despite allowing a hit and a walk, and Domonic Brown picked up a single and a double, and scored a run for the Phillies.


In Pittsburgh, the Pirates edged the Braves, 2-1.  Michael Bourn (.276) had a hit and a walk and scored the lone run for Atlanta.  The Nationals clinch the NL East with the Braves loss, though both are going to the playoffs.  Another HomeSider headed for the post season is Quintin Berry, as the Tigers clinched their division behind a big game from probable MVP and possible triple crown winner Miguel Cabrera's 4-hit night in a 6-3 win over the Royals.

In St Louis, the Cardinals reduced their magic number to 1, with a 4-2 win over the Reds.  Alfredo Simon (2.66) pitched 2 inning for Cincinnati, allowing a run on 3 hits.  The Cardinals will look to wrap up the final playoff spot in the NL tonight with a win or a Dodgers' loss.

In a wild one in Phoenix, the Rockies took a 13-inning, 7-5 decision from the Diamondbacks.  Josh Outman picked up the win in relief, his first of the year, despite walking 2 hitters in just .2 innings. Outman becomes the 13th different HomeSider to post a major league win this year, and with Kendrick's win added to Outman's, the HomeSide now has picked up 70 wins this year!!  Mike Zagurski came on in the 13th inning with the bases loaded and allowed all 3 runners to score.  Mike (5.54)  has had a tough season for Arizona and is surely facing an uncertain off season.

Cole finishes strong

On Sunday in Miami,  Cole Hamels won his final start of 2012 with a strong 7 innings against the Marlins, allowing just 1 run on 5 hits and 1 walks, and striking out 8 in the Phillies' 4-1 win.  In his last 10 starts of the year, Hamels (17-6, 3.05) went 6-0 with a 2.38 ERA.  His 17 wins are a career high and matches Gavin Floyd's mark set in 2008 for HomeSiders in 1 season, and was #68 for our boys this year!  Antonio Bastardo threw a 1-2-3 8th inning, striking out 2 for his 26th hold of the year.  Carlos Ruiz was 3 for 4, including a double and his 68th RBI, raising his average to .330, which would be the best average of any HomeSider in the majors since we have been sending them!  Darin Ruf (.320) was 1 for 4, and Domonic Brown drove in a run with a sacrifice fly, as well as throwing out a runner at home.

In Cleveland, the Indians exploded for a 15-3 win over the Royals.  Lou Marson was 3 for 4 with a walk, an RBI, and 2 runs scored, and Jason Donald chipped in with a hit, an RBI and 2 runs scored of his own for the Tribe...........In Atlanta, Michael Bourn returned to the Braves' line up after sitting out a week, and had 2 hits, a walk, scored a run, stole his 40th base, and knocked in his 57th of the year as the Braves beat New York, 6-2.  The Braves are still alive in the hunt to catch Washington, trailing by 3 games with 3 games left.  Bourn is 1 stolen base behind Everth Cabrera of San Diego, as he bids for his 3rd NL stolen base crown...............In Toronto, the Yankees beat the Blue Jays, 9-6, to stay tied with Baltimore in AL East race.  Anthony Gose (.222) had a hit and a walk for the Jays...........In St Paul, the Tigers took a 2-1 win to stay on top by 2 games in the AL Central race.  Quintin Berry was 0 for 3, with a successful sacrifice bunt..........In Phoenix, the Diamondbacks beat the hapless Cubs, 7-2.  Mike Zagurski stuck out the only hitter he faced for the Snakes, and Adrian Cardenas had another pinch hit appearance for the Cubs, popping out in the 9th inning.  I am hoping the Cubs will play "A.C." in this final week of the year.


Getting back to Berry's bunt, which is a lost art in the majors these days. but "Q", along with Bourn and Gose can all get it done.  Maybe the former Claws can "bring the bunt back" to the big league game!

Phils achieve .500

Saturday in Miami, the Phillies took a 9-5 win from the Marlins.  Carlos Ruiz (.325) had a single and a double and drove in 2 runs, Domonic Brown (.238) had a triple and a walk, knocking in a run and scoring another, and Darin Ruf (.333) chipped in with a double and a runs scored.  Justin De Fratus retired  the 2 hitters he faced, and Antonio Bastardo tossed a scoreless inning, each recording a hold, as the Phillies evened their record at 79-79 with 4 games to go.

In Minnesota, the Tigers topped the Twins, 6-4, to pull 2 games ahead of Chicago for the AL Central crown.  Quintin Berry (.263) had a single, a walk, stole his 21st base without being caught, and scored a run for Detroit.  Miguel Cabrera hit his 43rd home run, tying him for the league lead and putting him in position to win the first triple crown since Yaz did it for the Red Sox in 1967!

In Phoenix, the Diamondbacks routed the hapless Cubs, 8-2.  Lendy Castillo pitched 1.2 innings for Chicago, allowing a hit a and a walk, but no runs, and Adrian Cardenas had a walk in 2 plate appearances for the Cubbies..........In Los Angeles, Josh Outman retired 4 straight hitters (1K) for Colorado in the Rockies' 3-0 loss to the Dodgers.

Floyd wins last start

The first thing I notice this morning is that the Dodgers have named non-roster second baseman Stefan Jarrin  as the player to named later in the Victorino trade.

In Chicago Friday night, in what could be his final appearance of 2012, Gavin Floyd battled his way through 5 innings despite walking 6 hitters, and picked up the win in the Sox' 3-1 victory over the Rays.  Gavin (11-12, 4.47) allowed just 2 hits and 1 run scored, as the White Sox pulled to within 1 game of Detroit for the AL Central lead.

The win was #67 for HomeSiders in the majors this season.

In Toronto, the Yankees stayed on top in the AL East, with an 11-4 win over the Jays.  Anthony Gose (.224) had an RBI double in the game for the Blue Jays.  New York still leads Baltimore,  9-1 winners against Boston,  by 1 game........In Miami, the Marlin walked off against the Phillies, with a 2-1 win.  Darin Ruf (.375) and Carlos Ruiz (.324) had a hit each for the Phillies...........In Phoenix, the Diamondbacks beat the Cubs, 8-3.  Adrian Cardenas grounded out as a  pinch hitter in the 7th inning for Chicago.

Congratulations to Reds pitcher Homer Bailey, who tossed a no-hitter in Pittsburgh.  It was the 7th no-hitter in the major leagues this year!

Gose, Berry and Ruf

On Thursday in Toronto, the Jays shut out the Yankees, 6-0, keeping Baltimore in the hunt for the AL East crown.  Anthony Gose had a walk and a single, scored 2 runs, and made an outstanding running catch against the wall in right-centerfield, and eventually doubled Robinson Cano off first base!!  Just 22 years old last month and getting a good taste of major league action, Anthony has now played in 50 major league games, has proved he can play all 3 outfield positions, and is starting to look more comfortable at the plate.  He has stolen 15 bases in 18 attempts, and watching him run all out around the bases is one of most enjoyable things you can witness at a ball game.

Another guys I love to watch run is Quintin Berry.  I just happened to be in front of a TV having lunch yesterday and got to witness his 2-run triple in the 2nd inning of the Tigers 5-4 win over Kansas City.  It looks like Tigers manager Jim Leyland has picked Berry over Brennan Bosch at this time to go against the right handed pitchers. Berry has started 3 of the last 4 games.  Tiger's pitcher Doug Fister struck out an American League record 9 straight hitters in the game!  Detroit now leads Chicago by 2 games with 6 to play.

In Philadelphia, Darin Ruf had 2 more hits, including a 3-run double in the 1st inning, but the Phillies would fall to the Nationals, 7-3.  Tyler Cloyd (2-2, 4.91) got hit around for 6 runs on 6 hits and 2 walks in just 5 innings, but Jake Diekman tossed a scoreless 9th (1 hit, 1K).  Domonic Brown had a hit and a walk, and Ryan Howard walked and scored a run for the Phillies. 

I should also mention that when Brown, Ruf and Carlos Ruiz all homered on Tuesday, it was the first time 3 former Claws all went deep in the same major league game!

Congratulation to Gio Gonzalez, who won again last night for Washington, and at 21-8, 2.89 has to be a candidate for the Cy Young.

A quick update on Michael Bourn.  Mike last started a game for the Braves on September 22.  He has a jammed left thumb and is considered "day-to-day" (like the rest of us!) .  He has not been disabled.

In Denver, Josh Outman recorded 4 outs, allowing just 1 hit, for the Rockies in their 7-5 win over the Cubs.   Outman has looked better the last couple of times out after a shaky return to the majors.

7 former Claws contribute to Phillies' win

In Philadelphia Tuesday, the Phillies stayed alive in the playoff race with a 6-3 win over the Nationals.  Cole Hamels won his career high 16th game of the season, throwing 99 pitches over 5 innings of work, and Justin De Fratus and Antonio Bastardo combined for a scoreless inning in the 7th.  Darin Ruf made his first major league start, and his first hit was a long home run in the 2nd inning, one of his 2 hits on the night. In the third inning, Ryan Howard drove in a run with a single (RBI #56), which was followed by Carlos Ruiz' 14th homer, a 3-run blast to left.   Domonic Brown capped off the scoring with his 4th home run of the season in the 6th inning.  The Phillies still trail St. Louis by 5.5 games for that final spot. 

The win by Hamels was #66 for the HomeSide in 2012.

In Baltimore, Anthony Gose was 1 for 3, with a sacrifice bunt, and scored a run for the Blue Jays, as Toronto beat the Orioles, 4-0, and in San Francisco, Mike Zagurski allowed a run on 2 hits in his inning in the Diamondbacks' 7-2 win over the Giants.

The Atlanta Braves clinched a spot in the playoffs with their victory over Miami.

quiet Monday as we head to the finish line

On Monday in Baltimore, the Orioles split a pair with Toronto.  Anthony Gose was 1 for 3 with a sacrifice bunt and an RBI in the second game,which was a 9-5 win for the Jays........In Detroit, Quintin Berry was 0 for 4 in the Tigers' 6-2 win over Kansas City......In Chicago, Lou Marson was 1 for 4 for the Indians in the the White Sox' 5-4 win over the Tribe......In Denver, Josh Outman retired the only 2 hitters he faced (1 K) for the Rockies in their 4-2 win over Arizona.

The Blue Jays have called up Bobby Korecky for the remainder of the season.

Hudson halts Phillies

On Sunday in Philadelphia, the Braves edged the Phillies, 2-1, knocking the Fightin' Phils 5 games out of the final playoff spot with 9 games to play.  Ryan Howard, Carlos Ruiz and Domonic Brown combined to go 0 for 10 as Philadelphia managed just 2 hits off of Tim Hudson.............In Detroit, Quintin Berry was 1 for 4 in the second game of a doubleheader, a 2-1, 10-inning win for Minnesota to give the Twins a sweep over the Tigers.  Fortunately for Detroit, the Angels beat Gavin Floyd and the White Sox, 4-1.  The Sox lead the Tigers by 1 game in the Central Division..........In Florida, the Rays shut out the Blue Jays, 3-0.  Anthony Gose had a single and a double for Toronto........In Kansas City, Lou Marson had 3 walks for the Indians in Cleveland's 15-4 win over the Royals.

Braves hammer Phils

On Saturday in Philadelphia, the Braves got to Roy Halladay for 7 runs in less than 2 innings en route to an 6-2 win over the Phillies. Ryan Howard homered for the 4th straight day, and Darin Ruf drove in the other run with a pinch hit sacrifice fly.  It was the first major league RBI for Darin.   BJ Rosenberg (2 IP, 1 hit, 1 walk, 1 K), Jake Diekman (1.2 IP, 4 walks, 2 Ks) and Justin De Fratus (1 IP, 1 run, 2 hits, 1K) all saw action out of the pen,  Carlos Ruiz (.330) had a hit in 4 at bats, and Domonic Brown (.245) had a walk in 3 plate appearances.  Michael Bourn (.274) had a single, a double 2 walks and scored twice for the Braves.

The Phillies fell 4 games behind St. Louis, who defeated the Cubs 5-4 in 10 innings.  Adrain Cardenas had another pinch hitting appearance and lined out for the Cubs.......In Detroit, the Tigers blasted the Twins, 8-0.  Quintin Berry (.272) was 1 for 4, stole his 20th base without being caught, and scored a run for Detroit.........In St. Pete, the Rays beat Toronto, 11-5.  Anthony Gose was 1  for 4 and scored a run for the Jays...........In Denver, the Diamondbacks outscored the Rockies, 8-7.  Mike Zagurski allowed a run on 2 hits in .2 innings, and received his 3rd hold for Arizona, and Josh Outman walked the only hitter he faced for Colorado.

Both the Reds and the Giants clinched their divisions.

KK, Ryno help keep Phils' hopes alive

Friday night in Philadelphia, the Phillies kept their playoff hopes alive with a 6-2 win over Atlanta.  Ryan Howard and Carlos Ruiz each went deep, that's 3 days in a row for Ryno, to back good pitching once again from Kyle Kendrick, who went 6.2 inning, and gave up just 2 runs on 4 hits and 2 walks, striking out 6 to win his 10th game of the year.  Kyle become the 4th HomeSider this year to reach 10 wins.  Antonio Bastardo, who seems to be back on track for the first time this year, threw another scoreless frame of relief to pick up his 23rd hold of the season.  It was the 65th win this year for former Claws!  Michael Bourn was 1 for 4, and is just 4 for his last 38 for the Braves.  The victory, combined with the Cardinals' 5-4 loss to the Cubs, moves the Phillies to 3 games back of St. Louis with 11 games to play.  The Brewers and the Dodgers, who are in between, also won their games as the scramble for this last postseason berth looks like it will go right down to the wire.

In St Pete, Anthony Gose was 0 for 4 in the Blue Jays' 12-1 loss to the Rays.  Anthony has hit a rough spot not unlike Bourn's, and is just 5 for his last 30..............In Denver, Josh Outman gave up 2 runs on 4 hits in 1.2 innings of work for the Rockies in their 15-5 loss to the Diamondbacks.  Josh did strand 2 inherited runners when he first came in.

Howard slam caps off big night

Ryan Howard hit a grand slam home run and drove in 5 runs as the Phillies scored 8 in the 1st and then 7 more in the 9th en route to a 16-1 smashing of the Mets.  Tyler Cloyd was outstanding, and with all the pressure off with an 8-run lead before he took the mound, Cloyd (2-1, 3.86 since his call-up) went 8 innings and allowed New York just 1 run on 3 hits and 2 walks, striking out 6.  BJ Rosenberg tossed a scoreless bottom of the 9th, and Domonic Brown (.253) had 3 more hits and drove in a run for the Phillies.  The win for Cloyd was #64 for the HomeSide this year.

The Phillies are still 4 games behind the Cardinals, who beat Houston, with 12 games to play.

Across town in the Bronx, the Yankees beat Toronto, 10-7.  Anthony Gose had a double and 2 walks for the Blue Jays............In Cleveland, Lou Marson was 0 for 3 with a walk for the Indians in their 4-3, 10-inning win over Minnesota, and in Chicago, Adrian Cardenas had another pinch hit appearance, grounding out for the Cubs in Chicago's 5-3 loss to the Reds.  The Reds and the Washington Nationals both earned playoff berths last night.

Ryno's blast steals a win for Phils

Wednesday night in New York, Ryan Howard belted his 11th home run with 2 out in the 9th inning to give the Phillies a 3-2, come from behind win over the Mets.  Cole Hamels was the starter for Philadelphia, and worked through 6 innings , allowing just 2 run on 6 hits and 1 walk, striking out 10 and receiving a hard luck no decision.  Antonio Bastardo and Justin De Fratus split a scoreless 7th inning for the Phils, who still trail the Cardinals by 4 games with 13 to play.

Across town, the Yankees took 2 games from the Blue Jays, 4-2, and 2-1.  Anthony Gose was 0 for 5 in the doubleheader for Toronto..........In Miami, Michael Bourn had a double in 4 at bats and scored a run for the Braves in Atlanta's 3-0 win over the Marlins.

Big win for Floyd as Sox and Tigers both win

In Detroit Tuesday night, the Tigers pounded the Athletics, 12-2 behind 2 home runs and 6 RBI from Miguel Cabrera.  Cabrera now has 40 home runs and 129 RBI on the year.  Can you say MVP?  Quintin Berry (.272) added a single and a double and knocked in 2 runs also for the Tigers........In Kansas City, Gavin Floyd returned to form for the White Sox.  After a shaky first inning in which he allowed 2 runs, Gavin slammed the door on the Royals offense and picked up his 10th win of the year in the Sox 3-2 victory.  Floyd allowed just 1 more hit and 1 walk the rest of his outing in a big win for Chicago.  It was win #63 for the HomeSide this year...........In Miami, Michael Bourn (.272) was 0 for 5 again for the Braves in their 4-3 loss to the Marlins.  After a very good season, Bourn has hit the skids, and is just 10 for 58 (.172) in September.........In San Francisco, the Giants topped the Rockies, 6-3.  Josh Outman gave up 2 runs on 2 hits in just .2 innings for Colorado.

The Phillies were rained out in New York and will  play  tomorrow to make it up.

Domonic paces Phillies win

Monday night in New York, the Phillies beat the Mets, 3-1 behind solid pitching from Cliff Lee.  Domonic Brown (.246) had a triple and a home run to pace the Phillies attack,  and Carlos Ruiz (.331) added a hit to the cause.  Philadelphia is now back to .500 at 74-74 and is now 3.6 games behind idle St. Louis for the final playoff berth with 14 games to go........In Chicago, the White Sox defeated Detroit, 5-4 in a make up game that was rained out last week, extending their lead in the AL Central to 3 games over the Tigers.  Quintin Berry pinch hit in the 9th inning, and had a good at bat, before grounding out to third base.......In Miami, Michael Bourn was 0 for 5 in the Braves' 7-5 win over the Marlins.  The Braves are still 5 games behind the Nationals, and in secure possession of the lead wild card spot.

Astros beat Phillies again

In Houston Sunday, the Astros made it 3 of 4 against the Phillies, dealing Philadelphia's playoff hopes a serious hit, with a 7-6, come from behind win.  This time it was Antonio Bastardo and Phillippe Aumont who gave up the deciding runs.  Bastardo recorded 1 out, then allowed a runner to reach on an error and walked the next hitter.  Both runners scored when Aumont allowed a walk and 2 big hits, before Justin De Fratus restored order with the final 5 outs.  De Fratus has thrown 5.2 scoreless innings, allowing just 2 hits and 3 walks  so far.   Ryan Howard and Domonic Brown each drove in 2 runs, and Darin Ruf pinch hit again in the 7th inning, grounding out.  The Phillies are now 4 games out of a playoff spot with 15 games to play.

In Toronto, Anthony Gose (.221) was 0 for 3 for the Blue Jays in their 5-0 win over Boston.  Gose has looked more comfortable since being recalled, adjusting his stance and his swing from when he first came up earlier this year............In Chicago, the Cubs beat the Pirates, 13-9.  Adrian Cardenas (.212) made a pinch hitting appearance for Chicago,  grounding out in the 7th inning.  Without going back through the box scores to count, I would estimate Cardenas has pinch hit some 30 times this season..........In Cleveland, the Indians dealt the Tigers playoff push a big blow, scoring 2 in the bottom of the 9th to steal a 7-6 win from Detroit.  Quintin Berry, in the starting line up for the second day in a row, had a double in 5 at bats for the Tigers........In Atlanta, the Braves made it 3 in a row against the Nationals with a 5-1 win.  Michael Bourn (.277)  had a hit and 2 walks, and scored 2 runs for the Braves.

Saturday stuff

Saturday in Toronto, the Red Sox got past the Blue Jays, 3-2.  Anthony Gose (.227) had 2 hits and stole his 15th base for Toronto..........In Cleveland, Quintin Berry made just his 4th start in over a month for the Tigers, and was 2 for 3 for Detroit in their 5-3 win over the Indians.  Lou Marson was 0 for 2 for the Tribe...........In Atlanta, Michael Bourn took another 0 for 4, and his average is down to .276, but the Braves edged the Nationals, 5-4.  Mike is just 7 for his last 42...........In San Diego, the Padres beat Colorado, 4-3.  Josh Outman retired the only hitter he faced for the Rockies.

In Houston, the Phillies were shut out, 5-0 by the Astros.  The combination of Ryan Howard, Domonic Brown and Carlos Ruiz totaled 0 for 8 with 1 walk.  Kyle Kendrick (9-11, 3.95) suffered the loss, allowing 4 runs on 7 hits, NO walks, in his 5 innings of work.  Jake Diekman threw a 1-2-3 8th inning for Philadelphia.  The Phillies now trail both the Cardinals and Dodgers by 3 games for the final playoff spot, with just 16 games remaining to be played.

Congratulations to Domingo Santana and the Lancaster JetHawks, who defeated Modesto 3-2 last night to win the California League Championship!  Domingo had a hit and a walk, and his 6th RBI of the playoffs for Lancaster.

Cole wins 15th; Ruf is #48

Friday night in Trenton, Carlos Carrasco started the game for Akron and was immediately hit around.  The first 4 hitters of the game went single, double, single, and home run and before Carlos could settle in, 4 runs were on the board.  He then retired the next 6 straight to complete his 2 innings.  Trenton went on to an 11-7 win, staying alive in the series, trailing 2 games to 1.  Carrasco did not receive a decision, as Akron overcame the early deficit and actually took the lead a t one point.

In Modesto, Domingo Santana had an RBI double and scored a run, and also walked to help the Lancaster JetHawks take an 11-3 win in the opening game of the California League Championship Series.

In Houston, Cole Hamels won his career high 15th game of the season, matching his total from 2008, as the Phillies took it to the Astros, 12-6. Cole (15-6, 3.06) went 7 innings, allowing 4 runs, just 3 earned, on 7 hits and 1 walk, striking out 8.   It was win #62 for HomeSiders in the major leagues this season.  Justin De Fratus allowed an UNearned run on 1 hit in his inning of work.  In the 9th inning, Darin Ruf made his debut, hitting for De Fratus and grounding out.  Darin is the 48th former BlueClaw to play in the major leagues, and the 9th to debut this year!  Ryan Howard (.233) had a single, a double, a walk, and drove in 3 runs (44),  Carlos Ruiz (.337) had a walk, and scored twice, and Domonic Brown (.242) belted his 3rd home run, a 2-run shot into the upper deck in the 7th inning.  With the Cardinals dropping an 8-5 game in LA, the Phillies are just 3 games out of a playoff spot with 17 games to go.

In Cleveland, Justin Verlander shut out the Indians, 4-0.  Jason Donald was 0 for 2 and was hit by a pitch in the game for Cleveland.........In Toronto, Anthony Gose (.217) went 0 for 3, with a walk and a run scored for the Blue Jays in their 8-5 loss to Boston..........In Miami, the Marlins beat the Reds, 4-0.  Alfredo Simon (2.38)  threw a 1-2-3 9th inning for Cincinnati........In Atlanta, the Braves edged the Nationals, 2-1.  Michael Bourn, in the midst of a 6 for 37 slump, did not start, but came on later and did get a hit to help build the game winning run in the bottom of the 9th!

Carrasco back in town, visits Ippolito's!

When Carlos Carrasco played for Lakewood 6 years ago, one of his favorite places to go for dinner was Ippolito's on Route 70.  Carrasco came back Thursday night for dinner and sat down with my wife and I for dinner.  Ippolito's has been a hang out for many players over the years, drawn to it by both the great food and the family atmosphere.

Carlos will start and pitch 2 innings tonight in Trenton for the Akron Aeros, and told me he is completly healed and ready to go for spring training.

A big thank you to Lynn Hoffman, who went to Trenton to bring Carlos to us.

Please disregard to date tag in the corner, this picture was taken last night.

Astros end Phils streak

A quiet night for the HomeSide around the major leagues.

In Houston, Tyler Cloyd made his 4th major league start on short rest, throwing 3 shut out innings before allowing a 3-run home run in the 4th.  BJ Rosenberg came on for 2 shut out frames, and Antonio Bastardo notched his 21st hold with a scoreless inning before Philippe Aumont and Jake Diekman gave up the winning runs in the bottom of the 8th in a 6-4 Astros win, ending the Phillies 6 game winning streak.  Carlos Ruiz had a pinch hit single, raising his average to .342,  Ryan Howard had an RBI hit, and Domonic Brown had 2 walks and scored a run for the Phillies.  Darin Ruf has yet to get in a game.

In Arlington, the Cleveland Indians scored 3 runs in the top of the 9th inning to shock the Texas Rangers, 5-4.  Jason Donald came on as a pinch runner during the rally, and scored the tying run, and Lou Marson was 1 for 3 for the Tribe.........In  Toronto, Anthony Gose had a double and a walk, and scored a run for the Blue Jays in an 8-3 win over Seattle.

Carrasco on the way back

Big news, HomeSiders!!   The Akron Aeros and the Trenton Thunder will play game 3 of the Eastern League Championship Series in Trenton Friday night, and Carlos Carrasco will get to pitch 2 innings for Akron.  This is exciting because Carlos is coming off Tommy John surgery and has missed a year and a half.   He expects to be ready to go for spring training!

look who is back in the hunt!

In Philadelphia Tuesday, the Phillies made it 6 in a row and got themselves back to the .500 level at 71-71 with 20 games left, with a 9-7 win over the Marlins.  Combined with the Cardinals' 6-4 loss to the Padres late last night, Philadelphia is now just 4 games out of a wild card playoff spot!  Domonic Brown had 2 more hits and an RBI, Carlos Ruiz had a hit and a walk, scoring a run and driving in another, and Ryan Howard also had a hit in the game.   BJ Rosenberg came on with 2 on and 2 out in the 7th inning and stranded the 2 runners, picking up his 2nd major league hold.

In Toronto, Anthony Gose (.227 and rising) had a hit and a walk, and scored a run for the Blue Jays, who dropped a 4-3 decision to Seattle...........In Houston, Adrian Cardenas had a walk in 2 at bats for the Cubs in their 1-0 defeat to the Astros...........In Arlington, Jason Donald was 1 for 3, playing 3rd base for the Indians in their 6-4 loss to the Rangers.......Michael Bourn was 0 for 4 in Milwaukee, as the Braves were shut out, 5-0 by the Brewers...........In Denver, the Rockies late rally came up short and the Giants prevailed, 9-8.  Josh Outman threw a 1-2-3 inning, striking out 1 for Colorado.

In Pawtucket, the Red Sox took the opener of International League Championship with a 7-2 win over Charlotte.  Greg Golson (.333 in the playoffs) was 1 for 4 and scored a run for the Knights.

In Lancaster, the JetHawks took a 9-6 win from the Mavericks to advance to the California League Championship.  Domingo Santana was 0 for 4 for the JetHawks.  They will play the survivor between Bakersfield and Modesto.  Modesto even the series at 2-2 with a 3-2 win last night, with Travis Mattair going 0 for 3, with a walk for the Blaze.

former Claws combine for win!

The Phillies' late season winning ways continued on Monday, as the team won their 5th straight game, 3-1 over the Marlins.  Kyle Kendrick won his 9th game of the year, and his 7th in the second half, with 7 great innings in which he allowed just 1 run on 2 hits and 3 walks, striking out a career high 8 hitters.  Justin De Fratus and Jake Diekman combined for a scoreless 8th and Antonio Bastardo closed it out, to record his first save of the year.  Domonic Brown's 2-run home run in the 5th inning was all the offense the pitchers would need as the Philadelphia has put themselves back in the wild card hunt.  With the Cardinals losing in San Diego last night, the Phillies are just 5 games out of a playoff spot with 21 games remaining to play.

In Cincinnati, the Reds scored a run in the bottom of the 14th inning to take a 4-3 win over the Pirates.  Alfredo Simon (3-2, 2.43) picked up his 3rd win of the year, throwing a scoreless frame and benefiting from being in the right place at the right time.

The 2 wins run the season total to 61 major league wins for HomeSiders this year!

In Houston, the Cubs won their 4th straight game with a 4-1 win over the Astros.  Adrian Cardenas made a pinch hitting appearance for Chicago and walked............In Milwaukee, Michael Bourn's struggles continue with an 0 for 4, dropping his average to .281, the lowest it has been since I can remember.  The Brewers beat the Braves, 4-1, and are tied with the Phillies, 5 games out of a playoff spot............In St Paul, Lou Marson (.228) was 0 for 2, with a walk for the Indians in their 7-2 loss to the Twins.

The Colorado Rockies have recalled Josh Outman from AA-Tulsa.


In Modesto, the Nuts pounded Bakersfield, 12-1 to stay alive in their playoff series.  Travis Mattair had 2 hit, including his 2nd home run of the series, and is hitting .462 for the Blaze in the series........In Lancaster, Domingo Santana was 0 for 3, with a walk and a run scored for the JetHawks, as Lancaster beat High Desert, 10-5, and took a 2-1 lead in their best of 5 series.  Both Bakersfield and Lancaster can clinch their series tonight!

a busy September Sunday

A lot to cover from Sunday, but we begin in Trenton, where the Thunder eliminated the Reading Phillies with a 5-4 win over our boys. Leandro Castro had 2 hits and an RBI, and Darin Ruf hit a home run.  Congratulations to the entire team and staff there who had a great season!  Speaking of Ruf, the Phillies have announced he will join the big team today. 

Next order of business is to correct something I wrote yesterday.  I incorrectly said that Sacramento had clinched their series with Reno, when actually it was even at 2 games each.  On Sunday, it was Reno who won the series with a 7-4 win to advance to the Championship series.  Michael Taylor (.471 in the series)  had a hit and an RBI for the River Cats.  I look for Taylor to join the surging Athletics for their stretch drive.

In Bakersfield, Travis Mattair had a single, a double and scored a run for the Blaze, who took a 2-0 lead in their series against Modesto with an 8-5 win.  This series will move to Modesto for game 3.  In San Bernadino, the High Desert Mavericks evened up their series with Lancaster, beating the JetHawks, 16-3.  Domingo Santana was 0 for 4, with a walk and a run scored for Lancaster.  The JetHawks head home to play game 3.

Congratulations are in order for Lakewood hurler Colin Kleven, who is the first recipient of the Phillies Minor League Community Service Award.  The award is designed to acknowledge to member of the Phillies organization for outstanding work in the community, and Kleven was recognized for his work with the ALS Foundation, Boys and Girls club, and the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America.

Moving on the Philadelphia, where the Phillies swept a pair of games from the Colorado Rockies.  Don't look now, but the Fightin' Phils have put themselves back in the hunt for a wild card with this late season move.  The Phillies won the opener, 3-2, behind solid pitching from Cole Hamels, who threw 7 innings, allowing 2 runs on 5 hits, but came up short again for the elusive 15th win.  Antonio Bastardo got 2 outs in the 8th inning, giving up just 1 hit.  Domonic Brown had 2 hits, Ryan Howard had a 2-RBI double, and John Mayberry had the walk off hit in the bottom of the 9th.  In the nightcap, Tyler Cloyd did not have his good stuff and was charged with 4 runs on 8 hits in just 4 innings of work, leaving the game trailing, 4-1.  Justin De Fratus threw a scoreless 5rh, and BJ Rosenberg struck out 2 of 3 in the 6th.  Rosenberg became the winning pitcher, his first major league win, when the Phillies took the lead back in the bottom in the 6th.  It was the 59th win for the HomeSide this year, and "Rosie" becomes the 12th different former Claw to post a major league victory this year!  Carlos Ruiz returned to the line-up like he never left, belting 2 line drive singles and knocking in an insurance run in the 7-4 win.  Domonic Brown had another hit, and Ryan Howard drove in 2 more runs.

In New York, Michael Bourn (.283) had 2 hits, stole his league leading 39th base, and scored a run for the Braves, as Atlanta completed their sweep over the Mets with a 3-2 win.............In Boston, Anthony Gose had 2 hits, his 14th stolen base and scored a run for the Jays in Toronto's 4-3 win over the Red Sox.  It was the second straight 2-hit game for Gose, who is hitting .233 now for the Jays, and his single in the 9th inning helped to build the game winning run.  Go, Go, Gose!!!............In St Paul, the Twins outscored the Indians, 8-7.  Jason Donald had a triple, a walk, an RBI and scored a run, and Lou Marson had a walk in 3 at bats for the Tribe.

Golson, Taylor advance; Gose knocks in 5

In Charlotte Saturday night, Greg Golson hit a 2-run home run in the 2nd inning, 1 of his 2 hits in the game, as the Knights beat Indianapolis, 6-4, to win their series 3 games to 1 and advance to the International League Championship Series against Pawtucket.  Golson his .353 in the series.

In Reno,  Michael Taylor had a single and scored a run for Sacramento during their 3-run 2nd inning as the River Cats took a 4-3, 10-inning, series clinching win over the Aces to advance to the Pacific Coast League Championship to take on the winner between Albuquerque and Omaha.  Last in in Albuquerque, the Isotopes scored 9 runs in the bottom of the 7th inning to take a 12-10 win and even their series at 2-2.  Will Savage has pitched 2 innings in relief for Albuquerque in the series, allowing 2 run on 3 walks and a hi


In San Bernadino, Domingo Santana had walked and scored the go-ahead run in the top of the 11th inning, and then singled home what proved to be the winning run in the 12th, as Lancaster grabbed game 1 of the divisional championship series, 8-7 over the Mavericks.  In all,  Santana (.538 in 4 playoff games so far) had 3 hits, 2 walks, an RBI and scored 3 times for Lancaster.

In Bakersfield, Travis Mattair had 2 hits, including a home run for the Blaze in their 5-4 win in game 1 of their series with Modesto.  Maybe Mattair and Santana will square off for the title if they can both win these series!

The game between Reading and Trenton was rained out, they will try to get it in this afternoon at 4:00, with Adam Morgan throwing for the R-Phils.

In Boston, Anthony Gose had 2 hits, including his first major league home run, and drove in 5 runs for the Blue Jays in their 9-2 win over the Red Sox. Gose also stole his 13th base for the Jays..........In New York, Michael Bourn had a double in 6 at bats for the Braves, as Atlanta routed the Mets, 11-3.

playoffs heating up as Reading has backs to the wall

Friday night in Reno, Michael Taylor hit 2 home runs, and scored 3 runs for Sacramento, but the River Cats dropped an 11-7 game to the Aces, as Reno stayed alive in their opening round series, now trailing 2 games to 1.  The River Cats will go for the knockout in game 4 tonight.

In Charlotte, the Indianapolis Indians stayed alive with an 8-0 win over the knights, holding Charlotte to just 2 hits.  Greg Golson had 1 of those hits for the Knights, who lead the best of 5 series, 2-1.

In Corpus Chrsiti, Jonathan Singleton was 0 for 4 for the Hooks, and hit just .154 in the series, as the Frisco RoughRiders completed the sweep over the Hooks with a 5-0 win.  I would look for Singleton to maybe get a taste of major league action in the coming weeks.

In Trenton, the Thunder took a 2-1 lead in their series with Reading, taking a 5-1 win by holding the R-Phils to just 5 hits.  Cody Asche had 3 of those hit for Reading, who faces elimination tonight.

In Lancaster, Domingo Santana had 2 walks and scored a run for the JetHawks in a 3-2 win over the Storm in the deciding game of their series.  Lancaster will move into the next round to face the High Desert Mavericks.

The Toronto Blue Jays have placed Jay Happ on the DL with a fractured right foot, and the Phillies have activated Carlos Ruiz.

around the minors

Out of the gate this morning, I will begin by saying congratulations to Domingo Santana and Maikel Franco, who were both voted player of the week in their respective leagues for the final week of the regular season.

Santana hit .484 (15 for 31) in 8 games for the Lancaster JetHawks, with 3 doubles, 4 home runs and 7 RBI in the JetHawks' playoff push, and Franco finished the season with 6 straight multi-hit games, going 15 for 27 (that's .556) over the span.

Domingo had 3 walks and scored a run for the JetHawks in their 5-1 win over Lake Elsinore, evening their best of 3 series at 1-1.

In Reading, the Trenton Thunder scored 3 runs in the 9th inning off of Colby Shreve to take game 2 of their series with the R-Phils, 4-1, and even the series at a game apiece.  Reading got just 5 hits, wasting a good effort from Trevor May (5.1 IP, 1 run, 3 hits, 2 walks, 6 Ks).  The series will move to Trenton for game 3.

In Tulsa, Josh Outman threw 7 shut out innings for the Drillers in their 3-0 game 2 win over Springfield.  Outman allowed just 2 hits and 3 walks to help Tulsa even the series at 1-1.

In Frisco, the RoughRiders came form behind again to beat the Hooks, 3-2 and take a 2-00 lead in their series.  Jonathan Singleton was 0 for 4 for the Hooks, who head home for game 3 facing elimination.

Only 2 HomeSiders in action in the majors last night: Michael Bourn had a walk in 4 at bats for the Braves in their 1-0 win over the Rockies, and Lendy Castillo threw 1.1 inning of relief for the Cubs, allowing a run on 2 hits and 2 walks in  Chicago's  9-2 loss to Washington.

R-Phils take game 1

Wednesday night in Reading, Tommy Joseph and Leandro Castro hit back-to-back home run in the bottom of the 8th inning to give the Reading Phillies a 4-2 win over Trenton in game 1 of their playoff series.  Austin Hyatt was the starter, going 6.1 inning and giving up just 2 runs on 4 hits and 2 walks, s triking out 4.  The win went to Tyler Knigge, who threw 1.2 inning of scoreless relief.   MVP Darin Ruf had a double and a walk for Reading, who now lead the best of 5 series 1 game to none.  Game 2 is in Reading tonight.

In Frisco, Jonathan Singleton hit a game tying home run in the top of the 8th inning for Corpus Christi, but the Hooks lost to the RoughRiders, 6-5 when Frisco scored in the bottom of the 9th.  Singleton also had an RBI double in the game for the Hooks..........In Indianapolis, Greg Golson was 1 for 5 for Charlotte as the Knights beat the Indians,  8-1................In Lake Elsinore, Domingo Santana (0 for 3) and the Lancaster JetHawks were shut out on 3 hits as the Storm took game 1 of their series, 1-0.  The JetHawks face elimination in game 2 tonight.


In Cincinnati, the Phillies beat the Reds, 6-2.  Ryan Howard (.239) and Domonic Brown (.240) had a hit each, with Brown knocking in his 13th run this year.  Antonio Bastardo retired the only 2 hitters he faced for the Phillies and Alfredo Simon threw 2.2 innings of scoreless relief for the Reds..........In Toronto, Anthony Gose had a single, a triple and scored a run for the Jays in their 6-4 win over the Orioles.

Latos outdoes Kendrick

Tuesday in Cincinnati, the Reds edged the Phillies, 2-1 as Matt Latos outpitched Kyle Kendrick.  Kendrick (8-10, 3.96), who had won his last 4 starts,  lasted 6 innings and gave up 2 runs on 6 hits and a walk, striking out 3.  BJ Rosenberg (1 walk, 1 K), Jake Diekman (walk to his only hitter) and Justin De Fratus (1 walk) combined to toss a scoreless inning in the 8th.  Ryan Howard (.239) was 1 for 3, and Domonic Brown drove in the Phillies' run with a bases loaded walk.

In Toronto, the Orioles used their 12-0 win over the Jays to tie the Yankees for first place.  Anthony Gose, recalled earlier yesterday, was used as a pinch hitter, flying out in the 8th inning.......In Washington, Adrian Cardenas was also used in the game late, striking out in his only at bat for the Cubs in their 11-5 loss to the Nationals.........In Detroit, Lou Marson had a walk in 4 plate appearances for the Indians, as they beat the Tigers again, 3-2.  Quintin Berry was used as a pinch hitter, grounding out in his only at bat for Detroit.

In Atlanta, the Rockies shut out the Braves, 6-0.  Michael Bourn (.284) had a hit and a walk, and was thrown out attempting to steal.  Mike still leads the National League with 38 stolen bases...........In San Francisco, Mike Zagurski pitched a scoreless inning (1 walk, 1 K), stranding 2 inherited runners for Arizona in the Diamondbacks' 8-6, 11-inning win over the Giants.

Cloyd wins 1st major league game!!

So, Labor Day has come and gone, and with it another minor league season is in the books, and the major league boys head into the home stretch.

In Cincinnati, Tyler Cloyd won his first major league game, throwing 7 solid innings at the first place Reds, allowing just 1 run on 4 hits, NO walks, with 9 strike outs.  Justin De Fratus tossed a scoreless 8th (1 walk) in his 2012 debut, and Phillippe Aumont notched his first major league save as the Phillies won, 4-2.   It was win #58 for the HomeSide this year, and Cloyd becomes the 11th different former BlueClaw to win a major league game this season.

In Toronto, Jay Happ pitched well for the Blue Jays, but lack of support left him on the wrong end of a 4-0 score against the surging Orioles.  Jay went 5 innings, and allowed 3 runs, 2 earned, on 6 hits and 2 walks, striking out 9 to slip to 10-11, 4.73 on the season (combining his Houston and Toronto numbers).

After sweeping the White Sox to get into a tie for first place, the Detroit Tigers went home and dropped a 3-2 game to the Indians.  Quintin Berry, starting just the 3rd game in 3 weeks, had a leadoff single , stole his 18th base without being caught, and scored a run  for the Tigers, and   Lou Marson, who narrowly missed throwing out his former teammate, was also 1 for 4 and scored a run for the Tribe.  With Chicago winning, Detroit is once again a game back of the Sox.

In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.284) had 2 walks and scored 2 runs for the Braves in their 6-1 win over the Rockies.

In Portland, Leandro Castro (.287) had 3 hits and 2 RBI, and Darin Ruf drove in his 104th run as the Reading Phillies beat the Sea Dogs, 7-3 and clinched their spot in the playoffs.  They will open the post-season Wednesday night at home against the Trenton Thunder.......In Bakersfield, Travis Mattair finished off  his season with a 3 for 3 game for the Blaze, including his 19th home run and 82nd RBI as the Blaze topped the Quakes, 7-4.  "Moose" and the Blaze are going into the first round of the playoffs.

Also headed to the post season are Greg Golson (Charlotte) ,  Michael Taylor (Sacramento), Jonathan Singleton (Corpus Christi), and Domingo Santana (Lancaster).


In Frisco, the Midland Rock Hounds scored a run in the 10th inning to take a 2-1 win from the RoughRiders.  Matt Rizzotti was 0 for 4 for Midland, and hit .307 for the Oakland affiliate, and .268 for the 3 teams he played for over the summer.  I believe Matt's performance for the Hounds should earn him an invitation the spring training with the Athletics.

Braves shock Phillies with 5-run 9th

In Atlanta Sunday, the Braves rallied for 5 runs with 2 outs in the bottom of the 9th inning to complete a comeback after trailing the Phillies by the score of 7-1 after 3 innings to take an 8-7 win and avoid the sweep. Cole Hamels pitched well enough, 6 innings, 2 runs, 6 hits, 2 walks and 6 Ks, and also belted a 2-run double in the 3rd inning.  Ryan Howard added a 2-run double of his own in the 1st inning,and now has 36 RBI.  Michael Bourn (.285) had 2 hits, 2 walks, stole his 38th base, and scored a run for the Braves. 

After the game, the Phillies called up Justin De Fratus from Lehigh Valley.

In Cleveland, the Rangers battered the Indians, 8-3.  Lou Marson (.238) was 1 for 3 , with a walk, and Jason Donald was 0 for 5, playing 3rd base.  That's 3 different positions the last 3 days for Donald.


In Portland, Ethan Martin, who came to the Phillies in the Victorino trade, improved to 5-0 with the Phillies, combining with Tyler Knigge to throw a 3-hit shut out and move the R-Phils 1 step closer to the playoffs. Reading still leads New Britain by 1 game, with 1 remaining today.  If the teams finish tied, there will be a 1-game playoff Tuesday night in Baseballtown.........In Allentown, Steve Susdorf (.282) had 3 hits, and Cody Overbeck knocked in 4 runs as the IronPigs beat Buffalo, 6-0.  Mike Cisco threw 2 scoreless frames for Lehigh Valley.

In Dunedin, the Threshers wrapped up their season with a 12-inning, 7-5 win over the Blue Jays. Jim Murphy (.274) and Harold Martinez had 3 hits each, with Murphy knocking in his 85th run.  Kenny Giles was the winning pitcher, with a scoreless frame in which he struck out the side.  The Threshers finish the year at 36-30 in the second half, and 72-60 overall.

In Lakewood, the BlueClaws beat Greensboro, 4-2 behind solid pitching from Colin Kleven.  Colin (9-8, 3.99) went 6.1 innings and gave up just 2 runs on 5 hits and a walk to pick up the win.  He becomes just the 6th pitcher in 12 years to make every start this season.  Austin Brough threw another 1.2 innings of scoreless relief, and has thrown 19 consecutive scoreless innings!!  Maikel Franco (.280) had 2 more hits and drove in his team-leading 84th run of the year.  This places him 4th on the single season RBI list for the Claws.  Only Randy Ruiz (91), Jake Blalock (90), and Ryan Howard (87) have driven in more in 1 year in Lakewood.


In Colorado Springs, Kevin Howard (.313) had a pinch hit, 2-RBI double in the 9th inning for Las Vegas, but the 51s dropped a 5-3 decision to the SkySox.........In San Bernadino, Domingo Santana (.302) homered for the 3rd straight game for Lancaster, a 9th inning shot that gave the JetHawks a 2-1 lead. Unfortunately, they blew it in the bottom half of the inning, and the Mavericks won, 3-2.  It was the 23rd home run for Santana and his 97th RBI of the year.

Pigs, Threshers eliminated

The first 2 of what I assume will be a long list of promotions to the major leagues came yesterday, when The Cubs recalled Adrian Cardenas from Iowa, and the Phillies brought Jake Diekman back to the big team.

Speaking of the Philllies, Philadelphia topped the Braves in Atlanta, 5-1.  Ryan Howard had a single and 3 walks, BJ Rosenberg allowed an 8th inning home run to Martin Prado, before Antonio Bastardo came on for the final 5 outs, picking out 4 Ks.  After struggling through most of 2012, Bastardo seems to have found his groove lately.

In Cleveland, Jason Donald (0 for 3) played shortstop for the Indians in their 4-3 win over the Texas Rangers.

In Allentown, the Buffalo Bison officially eliminated the IronPigs from the playoffs with a 6-3 victory over Jonathan Pettibone.  Pettibone allowed 5 runs on 7 hits in just 5.1 innings of work, sustaining his first AAA loss after 4 wins.........In Portland, the Reading Phillies failed to clinch their spot in the playoffs, falling 6-1 to the Sea Dogs.  Reading managed just 4 hits in the game and saw their lead over New Britain slip to 1 game with 2 left....In Clearwater, the Dunedin Blue Jays dealt the Threshers a tough blow, beating Clearwater 3-1.  Gabriel Arias pitched well for Clearwater in his debut, going 5 innings, and allowing 2 runs on 6 hits, NO walks, and struck out 9. Hector Neris and Mike Nesseth finished it off. Carlos Alonso (.277) had the only 2-hit game for Clearwater, who has been eliminated due to tie-breaking procedures.

In Lakewood, Kelly Dugan's quest to hit .300 got a boost on Saturday night, as Dugan picked up 2 singles and a double, raising his average to .298, and the BlueClaws beat Greensboro, 8-3.  Maikel Franco's strong second half continued, as he also had 3 hits for Lakewood.  All 9 hitters got at least 1 hit in the 17-hit barrage. 



In Colorado Springs, Anthony Gose (.290) had 2 hits, and Tuffy Gosewisch (.288) belted a 3-run home run for Las Vegas, but the 51s lost a 10-9 game to the SkySox.......In Oklahoma City, Jarred Cosart allowed just 1 UNearened run in the first inning of his 6-inning final start for the RedHawks, who lost to Round Rock, 6-3 by giving up 5 in the 9th.  Jarred combined to go 6-7, 3.30 in 21 games in AA and AAA.......In San Antonio, Jonathan Singleton (.285) had 2 hits and walk for Corpus Christi in the Hooks' 11-1 win over the Missions.  Josh Zeid recorded 4 outs (2 hits, 1 walk, 2Ks) for the Hooks......In San Bernadino, the Lancaster JetHawks exploded for a 23-12 win over the Mavericks.  Domingo Santana (.303) had 2 hits, including his 22nd home run and 96th RBI for Lancaster.  In Bakersfield, Travis Mattair (.270) had 2 hits and his 81st RBI for the Blaze in their 10-7 win over the Quakes.  I Believe both Lancaster and Bakersfield are heading to the playoffs this week!

Wright, Milner both win again

On Thursday, Threshers' starter Austin Wright was named Florida State League pitcher of the year.  Then on Friday, Wright notched his 11th win of the year, as the Threshers beat Dunedin, 8-5, and tied them for first place with 2 games left.  Austin (11-5, 3.47) went 5.2 innings and allowed just 3 runs on 3 hits and 1 walk for the Threshers.  Colton Murray recorded his 4th hold for Clearwater, and Kenny Giles got his 3rd save, striking out 2 in the 9th.  Cameron Rupp (.271) had 4 hits and 4 RBI to pace the Clearwater attack, and Jim Murphy (.272) had 3 doubles and scored 3 times.  The Threshers, Blue Jays and Lakeland Flying Tigers are all deadlocked at 35-29 with 2 games left.

Gabriel Arias has been promoted to Clearwater, and will likely start 1 of the 2 remaining games.  Moises Rivas will make Arias' scheduled start for Lakewood Saturday night.

In Lakewood, Hoby Milner wrapped up a very successful 2012, with 6 shut out innings (2 hits, 2 walks, career high 8 Ks) in the Claws' 4-1 win over Greensboro.  Hoby was 6-3, 3.49 in his stint with Lakewood and last night was probably the last we will see of him, as he has proved he is ready to move up to the next level.  Alejandro Villalobos, Aaron Altherr, Maikel Franco (team leading 83rd RBI), and Josh Ludy all picked up 2 hits for the BlueClaws, and Austin Brough threw another 1.1 innings of scoreless ball.  I believe that is 17 straight innings for Austin without allowing a run!

In Allentown, the IronPigs dropped a 5-2 game to Syracuse and have been pushed to the brink of elimination in the International League wild card hunt.  Lehigh Valley will have to win all 3 of their remaining games and hope that Pawtucket losses all 3 of theirs.  Justin De Fratus threw 2 perfect innings of relief and should be recalled to the Phillies after the weekend.

In Portland, Reading lost a 13-6 game to the Sea Dogs, but MVP Darin Ruf drove in his league leading 103rd run.  Ruf is 1 point behind Altoon'a Brock Holt for the batting title and the triple crown.  Holt has been promoted and is stuck at .322, so Ruf can pass him with a few good games.



In San Bernadino, Domingo Santana (.301) had 4 hits, including his 21st home run, and drove in 2 runs (95) for Lancaster as the JetHawks pummeled the Mavericks, 11-1............In Durham, the Knights topped the Bulls, 7-2,  Greg Golson (.279) had a hit and a walk and scored a run for the Knights..........In Colorado Springs, Anthony Gose (.289, 2singles, 2 runs scored, 3 stolen bases), Kevin Howard (.307, single, triple, 2 RBI) and Tuffy Gosewisch (.289, 2 double, a walk, and a run scored) all had 2 hits for Las Vegas as the 51s beat the SkySox, 8-4.........In Salt Lake City, Michael Taylor (.288)  had a double and 2 RBI for Sacramento, but the River Cats lost to the Bees, 10-6........In Frisco, Jonathan Singleton (.284) hit his 21st home run for the Hooks, but the RoughRiders beat Corpus Christi, 4-3......In Midland, Matt Rizzotti (.317) was 1 for 4 for the Rock Hounds in their 4-2 loss to San Antonio.

Mayberry blast gives Phillies a win

In Atlanta, John Mayberry's 3-run home run in the top of the 10th inning gave the Phillies an 8-5 win over the Braves.  Ryan Howard (.241) had 2 hits, including his 10th home run, and drove in 3 runs for the Phillies.  Antonio Bastardo tossed another scoreless inning, striking out 2 of the 3 hitters he faced.  Michael Bourn (.283) was 1 for 5 for the Braves.

In Cleveland, the Rangers defeated the Indians, 5-3.  Jason Donald was 0 for 4 for the Indians, playing left field. He has played both infield and outfield positions since his most recent call up........In Los Angeles, Mike Zagurski allowed an RBI single to Andre Ethier, the only hitter he faced in the Diamondbacks' 4-3 extra inning win over the Dodgers.

Ruf sets new mark

There is a new home run king in Reading, as Darin Ruf hit his 38th home run last night to top Ryan Howard's record.  Ruf is on the verge of a triple crown season, with 102 RBI and a .321 average.  He was also named Eastern Legue MVP on Thursday!

In Springfield, Josh Outman came within 1 strike of a no-hitter for Tulsa, before allowing a run scoring single in the 9th inning of the Drillers' 9-1 win over the Cardinals.

Wathan to manage AFL squad

Lets catch up a bit from my wild schedule with the most important items of the last few days.  The Arizonal Fall League rosters have been named, and with Dusty Wathan managing the Peoria Javelinas, 4 of our boys are on that team.  Jay Johnson, Colby Shreve, Tyler Knigge, and Zack Collier will join Cody Asche, Tommy Joseph and Kyle Simon  as the Phillies contingent.

Jarred Cosart and Jonathan Singleton will play for the Mesa Solar Sox.  Not all of these rosters have been finalized, so there could be additions.

Both Jay Happ (yesterday against the Yankees) and Kyle Kendrick (today against the Mets) picked up wins since I reported last.  It was the 10th for Happ, the 8th for Kyle, and takes the HomeSide total up to 57 for the year.

And kudos to Tyler Cloyd , who made his debut against the Mets last night and settled into a very good first night in the majors.  With Vance Worley done for the year with his impending surgery, Tyler will probably get a few more looks in the rotation.

Cloyd and Ruf win Owens awards

The Phillies have annouinced that Tyler Cloyd and Darin Ruf have been named the winners of the Paul Owens award for 2012.  The pair joins a long line of former Claws to recieve this honor.

Cloyd to start for Phillies

Tyler Cloyd has been called up to start tonight's game for the Phillies against the Mets in place of Cole Hamels, who is sick with a stomach virus.  I am sure he will take the roster spot of Vance Worley, who will have season ending surgery on his pitching elbow within the next 10 days.

When Cloyd takes the mound, he will become the 47th former BlueClaw to play in the major leagues, and the 8th to make his debut this season.

Ryno's slam not enough; Rufs gets #37

A tough night for the Phillies in Philadelphia Tuesday, after Ryan Howard's grand slam spotted the team to a 4-1 lead in the 1st inning.  In the end, the Mets scored 4 runs off  BJ Rosenberg in the 10th inning for a 9-5 win. Rosenberg has had some long innings in his first few major league games, allowing 15 earned runs in 10.2 innings in 13 separate games. Vance Worley only made it through 4.1 innings, and was charged with 4 runs on 9 hits, and Antonio Bastardo pitched 1 inning allowing an inherited runner to score.........In Reading, Darin Ruf hit his 37th home run, and his 19th this month (!!) to help power Reading to a 12-8 win over Binghamton. The home run ties a mark set 8 years ago by Ryan Howard, and Ruf has 5 games remaining to play.  Tyson Gillies, Cody Asche and Tommy Joseph had 3 hits each for Reading.

Around the rest of the major leagues, Jason Donald, Quintin Berry and Michael Bourn were 0 for 11 between them.

In Salisbury, Colin Kleven pitched shut out ball into the 8th inning (5 hits, 2 walks, 4 Ks),  Maikel Franco (.271)  had 4 hits and another RBI (#80),  and Aaron Altherr and Willie Carmona had 2 hits each as Lakewood topped Delmarva, 4-0.  When Kleven (8-8, 4.04) takes the mound on Sunday, he will have made every start all season long.  During this game, the BlueCalws acheived a triple play, which I believe is a first for the team, but I am still looking into that.


In Colorado Springs, Michael Taylor (.292) had 2 hits and a walk, and scored a run for the River Cats in their 14-6 loss to the SkySox..........In Salt Lake City, Jesus Merchan (.394) had 2 more hits and scored a run to help the Tucson Padres take a 9-6 win from the Bees..............In Las Vegas, Anthony Gose (.290) had 3 hits, including 2 doubles, and scored 3 runs to spark the Las Vegas 51s to a 6-5 win over Tacoma.  Tuffy Gosewisch (.282) and Kevin Howard (.284) had 1 hit each for Vegas..........In San Bernadino, Domingo Santana (.293) had 2 doubles, scored 2 runs, and knocked in #92 for Lancaster, in the JetHawks' 7-2 win over Inland Empire.

No damage to Floyd's elbow

The results of Gavin Floyd's MRI on Monday showed no structural damage, just a strained elbow.  The White Sox say he will skip his next scheduled start on Friday and then he is "day-to-day".

Ruf hits 36th, challenging Ryno

A quiet day for the HomeSide on the major league front, but there was a handful of our boys in action.  Starting in Wrigley Field, where the Brewers were all over the Cubs, 15-4.  Lendy Castillo made his 3rd appearance since coming off the DL and allowed 4 runs on 3 hits and a walk, retiring just 2 Brewers in the process.  That's 7 runs on 11 hits in 3.1 innings in his 3 outings this month. Ouch!........In Cleveland, the Indians were shut out on 2 hits, with Jason Donald and Lou Marson combining to go 0 for 7 for the Tribe.........In San Diego, the Padres shut down the Braves, 3-0.  Michael Bourn (.287) had 1 hit for Atlanta.

There was rain all over the east coast, but they played in Reading, where Darin Ruf hit his 36th home run (18 of them in August) to help the Phillies to a 4-1 win over the Mets.  He is now 1 away from Ryan Howard's record of 37 set in 2004.  It was RBI #96 for Darin, who is hitting .317.  Trevor May flashed the brilliance that had him listed as the Phillies #1 prospect, throwing 8 innings and allowing just 1 run on only 2 hits, NO walks, with 9 Ks, to improve to 10-12 on the year.  Reading remains 3 games ahead of New Britain with a week to go in the season.

In Allentown, the IronPigs scored 4 in the bottom of the 1st inning, but lost a 5-4, 13-inning decision to the Yankees, dealing their playoff hopes a big blow.  Lehigh Valley has lost 2 straight, and now trails Pawtucket by 1.5 games for the wild card playoff berth.  Justin De Fratus threw 3 shut out innings, allowing just 1 hit, striking out 4, and looks to be back from his long stint on DL this year.  Tyson Brummett gave up the winning run in the 13th.

In Oklahoma City, Will Savage and Jarred Cosart faced each other and both pitched well, but neither figured in the final score. Savage went 6 shut out innings for Albuquerque, allowing 7 hits and 1 walk, and Cosart managed to get through 5 frames, allowing 1 run on 5 hits and 5 walks for Oklahoma City.  The RedHawks got to the Albuquerque bullpen for 6 late runs to take a 6-1 win.


In Corpus Christi, Jonathan Singleton (.284) picked up 2 singles and a double and even stole his 5th base of the season for the Hooks in their 3-0 win over the Missions.........In Charlotte, the Knights beat Syracuse, 6-2.  Greg Golson (.275) had a 2-RBI double and scored a run for Charlotte, and even added an assist, throwing out a runner at second base...........In Lancaster, Domingo Santana had 2 hits, including his 20th home run of the year for the JetHawks in their 12-4 pounding of Lake Elsinore.  It was RBI #91 for Santana.

Biddle honored

Jesse Biddle was named Florida State League pitcher of the week, on the merit of his 7-inning 2-hit shutout performance. It was his second straight week winning that honor, and the third time this year he has been named. Biddle leads the FSL with 146 strike outs.

busy Sunday include's Ruf's 35th

Sunday night in San Francisco, the Braves beat the Giants, 7-1 to gain a split of their series.   Michael Bourn (.287) had a walk, 2 stolen bases (37 on the year) and scored a run for Atlanta.......In Detroit, Quintin Berry (.272) came in the game late, and drove in a run with a sacrifice fly in his only at bat, as the Tigers salvaged the final game of their series with the Angels, 5-2.  It was RBI #25 for Berry...........In Chicago, Gavin Floyd left the game with some soreness in his pitching elbow after throwing just 42 pitches in 2 innings.  We await the results of an MRI, which Gavin will have today in Chicago.  He spent some time on the DL earlier this year with tendinitis in that elbow............In Phoenix, Mike Zagurski retired 4 hitters (1 walk, 2 Ks) for the Diamondbacks in Arizona's 5-4 loss to the Padres.

In Reading, Darin Ruf's 35th home run was the only thing to cheer about in a 9-1 defeat at the hands of the Erie Sea Wolves.  Darin also had a double, is hitting .316, has 95 RBI and is within 2 home runs of Ryan Howard's mark! Did I mention he threw out a runner at the plate? Can you say MVP?


In Allentown, the IronPigs dropped a 6-2 decision to the Yankees, picking up just 4 hits in the game, and slipped a half game behind Pawtucket in the race for the wild card playoff berth with a week to go in the season.  Jonathan Pettibone (4-0, 1.70 since being promoted) started and went 5 innings, allowing 1 run on 4 hits and 3 walks, and getting no decision.  Jake Diekman had his first sub-par night in a long time, giving up 3 runs on 3 hits and a walk in his inning, his ERA moving all the way up to 1.73.   Overall,  it has been a great 2012 season for Diekman.  Getting back to Pawtucket, the Sox took a 5-4 win in Charlotte.   Greg Golson  (.274) had 2 hits and scored a run for the Knights.


In Iowa City, Adrian Cardenas had a pinch hit, RBI-single in the bottom of the 9th inning for the Cubs, but the rally fell a run short, and Oklahoma City escaped with a 4-3 win over the Cubs.............In Tacoma, Bobby Korecky made the start for the Las Vegas 51s, and put in 5 good innings. Bobby (3-3, 3.46) threw 71 pitches, and gave up 2 runs on 4 hits, NO walks, and struck out 4. Kevin Howard (.292 in 27 games at AAA this year) had 2 of the 3 hits the 51s managed to get, and he scored the lone run in a 2-1 loss to the Rainiers. Anthony Gose is showing a little jet lag, going 0 for 7 in 2 games since his odyssey to get back to the Pacific Northwest (and I would not be surprised if he had to go back, with Bautista going BACK on the DL yesterday).........In Sacramento, the River Cats won a 4-2 game over the Salt Lake Bees.  Michael Taylor (.291) had a single, a double, a walk, and an RBI, and Jason Jaramillo also picked up a hit for the Cats........I also have to mention Yohan Flande.  Flande (6-10, 4.33) started out the season strong, but in his last 3 starts for the Gwinnett Braves, he has given up 12 earned runs on 23 hits, and 6 walks, in just 14 innings of work.  (Flande never played for Lakewood, but played in the system alongside so many of our boys, I just sort of adopted him in.)  Yohan won 34 games in the Phillies minor league system over 6 years before moving over to Atlanta in 2011.

In Corpus Christi, Josh Zeid came off the DL, making his first appearance in 3 weeks for the Hooks. He worked 2 innings, and allowed 1 run on 2 hits, earning his 8th hold as the Hooks topped San Antonio, 2-1........In Lancaster, Domingo Santana hit his 19th home run for the JetHawks in their 7-4 win over the Storm.  Domingo has had a fine season for the JetHawks, hitting .289, and driving in 90 runs.  Not bad for a guy who just turned 20 years of age this month!!  Lancaster is a "High A" level team, like Clearwater.

It was  a great day for me in Lakewood as I was honored to spend some quality time with the BlueClaws before yesterdays game.  The 2012 team has been easy to root for and, over the course of the year, has given us many reasons to cheer.  They are a better team today than they were in April, and that is the goal every year.  They are also an engaging, intelligent, accommodating, and respectful group of young men, and  I look forward to following all of their careers here in the years to come.

The Claws lost the game, 4-0 to Kannapolis, but I found the silver lining.  2 more scoreless innings from Austin Brough, who has now thrown 16 innings and not allowed an earned run since July 23.

R-Phils, Pigs coming on strong down the stretch

In Reading, Leandro Castro (.284) his his 10th home run of the year, and Darin Ruf (.314) drove in his 94th run of the season in a 2-1 win over Erie.  Austin Hyatt recorded his 7th win with 5 good innings (1 run, 5 hits, 1 walk, 4 Ks) and Tyler Knigge picked up his 5th hold with 1.2 scoreless innings of relief.  The R-Phils have solidified their playoff standing, now ahead of reeling New Britain by 3 games, and are just 4 back of first place Trenton, who dropped a 4-3 decision to Akron.

In Allentown, Derrick Mitchell had a single and his 7th home run of the year, driving in 4 runs in the IronPigs' 9-5 win over the first place Yankees.  Cody Overbeck had 2 hits and a walk, and knocked in 3, and Steve Susdorf picked up 2 hits, 2 walks, and scored 3 times.  Mario Hollands started and went 4 innings, giving up 4 runs on 7 hits and 2 walks, striking out 6, and Jake Diekman and Justin De Fratus each threw an inning.  Diekman's ERA in a stellar 0.73 for Lehigh Valley.  The Pigs remain a half game ahead of Pawtucket for the wild card with 8 games left.

In Lakewood, Hoby Milner (2.86) threw 6 shut out innings (2 hits, 2 walks, 6 Ks), and Willie Carmona and Gabriel Lino each homered for the Claws in their 4-0 win over Kannapolis.  Tim Carver and Alejandro Villalobos each had 2 hits for Lakewood.

The Clearwater Threshers dropped a 2-1 game in Brevard County, and slipped to 2 games out in a wild, 4-team race in their division. Zack Collier (.267) and Carlos Alonso (.273) had 2 hits each for Clearwater.  Austin Wright (10-5) was the hard luck loser, going 5.1 innings and giving up 2 runs on 5 hits and 3 walks, striking out 7.  Mike Nesseth finished up with 2.2 innings (just 1 hit) of scoreless relief.


In Huntsville, the Birmingham Barons defeated the Stars, 5-4.  Darren Byrd (2.51) tossed a 1-2-3 9th inning for the Stars, striking out 2..............In Tulsa, Josh Outman continues to show improvement, throwing 7 innings and allowing just 1 run on 5 hits, and 3 walks, striking out 6 and getting no decision for the Drillers in their 2-1 win over the Naturals........In Round Rock, Jesus Sanchez (2.05) was tagged with his first AAA loss, allowing a run on 5 hits in 2 innings for Nashville, in the Sounds' 6-5 loss to the Express.