HomeSide News

smells like spring

2012-02-08T07:47:00.004-05:00

Houston Astros have invited Jonathan Singleton and Jonathan Villar to major league camp, joining J.A. Happ and Sergio Escalona.

Chicago Cubs have signed 2 more former 'Claws, with Jason Jaramillo moving over from the Pirates and Adrian Cardenas signing with them after being waived by the Athletics.

Quinten Berry and Bobby Korecky are heading for spring training with the Tigers, while Matt Maloney and Andrew Baldwin will be Minnesota's camp.

Greg Golson and Edgar Garcia will be in camp with Kansas City, while Robinson Tejeda has left the Royals to go to spring training with the Indians.

Castillo selected by Cubs

2011-12-08T15:14:00.003-05:00

Former BlueClaw Lendy Castillo was selected by the Cubs in the rule 5 draft this morning in Dallas. Castillo was 4-2 for Lakewood in 2011.

Dusty to Reading

2011-11-17T09:52:00.003-05:00

Facebook network is reporting that Dusty Wathan will be managing at Reading in 2012. Wathen managed the BlueClaws to the 2009 championship and has been with Clearwater the past 2 seasons.

Howard has injury repaired; Parent back to the show

2011-10-14T07:58:00.004-04:00

Ryan Howard has had successful surgery on his injured Achilles, and is expected to be out until mid-May........According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Mark Parent is going to be named bench coach for the White Sox under new manager Robin Ventura.

Phillies knock out Braves

2011-09-29T06:50:00.005-04:00

The Phillies ended the Braves post-season hopes, tying the game in the 9th inning and winning it in the 13th, 4-3, thereby eliminating the Braves from the playoffs, and giving the Cardinals the final spot. St Louis scored 5 in the 1st and pelted the hapless Astros, 8-0 behind Chris Carpenter's 2-hit shut out.

In Atlanta, Ryan Howard had 2 hits and a first inning RBI (finishing with 116 RBI in this "off" season for him), Carlos Ruiz picked up an RBI with a sacrifice fly, and a parade of HomeSiders took the mound. Cole Hamels threw 3 innings in relief, allowing 2 runs on 4 hits, Vance Worley put up a scoreless frame despite walking 2 and allowing a hit, Mike Stutes threw a 1-2-3 9th and Justin DeFratus picked up his first major league win, making him the 14th different HomeSider to record a win in 2011, for a total of 86 wins this year for former Claws.

Michael Bourn (.294) had 3 hits for the Atlanta, and stole 2 more bases to win his 3rd straight title in that category with 61.

For Philadelphia, it was their 102nd win of the year, a franchise best!

In Baltimore, the Orioles knocked the Red Sox out of the postseason with a 2-run bottom of the 9th inning for a 4-3 win. Alfredo Simon started for Baltimore and looked good early , but allowed 3 runs on 6 hits and 3 walks in just 4.1 innings. The Rays captured the final spot in the playoffs with a huge comeback from down 7-0 to top the Yankees, 8-7 in 12 innings. Greg Golson was 1 for 3 for New York.

In Milwaukee, Jason Jaramillo (.326) finished off a strong September with a hit and an RBI for the Pirates in their 7-3 loss to the Brewers, and in Seattle, Michael Taylor was 1 for 4 for the Athletics in their 2-0 season ending victory over the Mariners. Gio Gonzalez won his 16th game of the year for Oakland, throwing 8 shut out frames, allowing just 2 hits and 3 walks, and striking out 11.

The American League playoffs start Friday with Tampa @ Texas, and Detroit @ New York, while the National League series start Saturday with St. Louis @ Philadelphia and Arizona @ Milwaukee.

wild cards still up for grabs on final day

2011-09-28T07:36:00.002-04:00

On the morning of the final day of the regular season, the wild card spots in each league are still undecided.

In Atlanta, the Phillies stopped the Braves, 7-1 while the Cardinals rallied to beat the Astros 13-6 in Houston. Those results leave Atlanta and St Louis in a flat tie with just 1 game left. If they are still tied after today's games, there will be a 1-game playoff in St Louis Thursday.

In the AL, the Rays beat the Yankees, 5-3, and the Red Sox held off the Orioles, 8-7. If these 2 are still tied, their playoff tomorrow will be in St Petersburg.

Carlos Ruiz (.286) had a double and scored a run in the Phillies' victory, with Joe Savery, Antonio Bastardo and Kyle Kendrick throwing an inning each. Michael Bourn had a hit and stole his 59th base for the Braves in the losing effort........In Detroit, the Tigers beat the Indians again, 9-6. Jason Donald (.318) had a hit and a walk, and drove in 2 runs for the Tribe, and Lou Marson (.230) had a single and a walk and scored a run.

Lee notches 17th in final tune up

2011-09-27T07:22:00.002-04:00

In Atlanta, the Phillies topped the Braves, 4-2 for win #100 on the season. Ryan Howard (.253)had 2 hits, and Joe Savery and Mike Stutes combined for a scoreless inning, Savery picking up his maiden major league hold, and Stutes his 13th of the season. Michael Bourn (.293) had a walk in 4 plate appearances for the Braves. Atlanta stays 1 game ahead of St Louis, who lost 5-4 in 10 innings to the Astros, with 2 games remaining for the wild card.

In Milwaukee, Jason Jaramillo (.342) had a hit and scored a run for the Pirates, helping Pittsburgh to a 9-8 win over the Brewers.......In Chicago, the White Sox defeated the Blue Jays, 4-3. Kyle Drabek allowed a run on 2 hits and 1 walk in an inning of work for Toronto......In Seattle, the Mariners defeated Oakland, 4-2. Michael Taylor was 0 for 3 for the Athletics and is 5 for 26 (.192) in 10 games since his call up.

Phillies end skid, win #99

2011-09-26T08:17:00.003-04:00

The Phillies ended their 8 game losing steak, topping the Mets, 9-4 on Sunday. Ryan Howard had 2 hits, scored a run and drove in #115, although he is still limping around on that bad heel. Carlos Ruiz (.290) was 4 for 4 with a walk, scored once and drove in 2. Antonio Bastardo, who was great for the first 4 and a half months of the season, seems to have hit the wall. Bastardo was knocked around for 3 runs on 3 hits and 2 walks, retiring only 1 hitter. His ERA, down below 1.50 for most of the year, has ballooned to 2.68. Vance Worley came in to bail him out. Vance did allow a run on 2 hits, striking out 3 in just 1.2 innings.

New York and Boston split a pair, with Greg Golson stealing a base after walking in the second game...........In Cleveland, the Twins beat the Indians, 6-4 in 10 innings. Jason Donald (.320) had 2 more hits and a walk for the Tribe, while Lou Marson took an 0 for 4. Donald is showing he is back after an injury riddled early season, and is making a bid to compete for a job in the spring. Go, J.D.!!...............Gavin Floyd pitched well in his final start of the year, going 8 innings for the White Sox against the Royals. Gavin allowed just 2 runs on 3 hits and 2 walks, striking out 10 and being saddled with the 2-1 loss. Floyd finishes 2011 with 12-13, 4.37 record.

Phils drop 8th straight

2011-09-25T11:01:00.003-04:00

We start today in New York, where the Mets beat the Phillies twice, extending the Phillies' losing streak to a worrisome 8 games. In the opener, Cole Hamels pitched 7 fine innings and had a shut out until Valentino Pascucci, who played for Lehigh Valley at one point, hit a pinch home run with 2 outs in the 7th. Cole allowed just the 1 run on 4 hits, walking 3 and striking out 7, and left the game in a 1-1 tie. Carlos Ruiz (.283) and Ryan Howard had a hit apiece for the Phillies, with Howard driving in the lone run (#114). Brad Lidge was the loser in a 2-1 New York win. The Mets won the nightcap, 6-3, with Kyle Kendrick (1.1 IP, 2 runs, 4 hits), Mike Schwimer (1 IP, 2 Ks), Mike Stutes (2 IP, 2 Ks) and Justin DeFratus (1 IP, 2 Ks) all seeing action. The Phillies will send Roy Halladay to try to right the ship today, as the playoffs approach Friday.

In Washington, the Braves swoon continued with a 4-1 loss to the Nationals. Michael Bourn (.295) had 1 hit for Atlanta, who are 2 games ahead of the Cardinals in the wild card race..........In Cleveland, the Indians took 2 games from Minnesota, 8-2 and 7-6. Jason Donald (.312) played in both games, going 2 for 6 with a walk and a run scored, and Lou Marson (.236) was 1 for 4 in the nightcap, scoring a run and driving in another.............In Pittsburgh, Jason Jaramillo (.364) was 2 for 4 including a double, and drove in a run for the Pirates in their 4-3 win over the Reds.

Naylor, Zagurski gone

2011-09-24T08:37:00.003-04:00

On Friday, the Phillies confirmed that they have traded Mike Zagurski to Arizona, and released Drew Naylor outright.

In Detroit, Alfredo Simon settled into a very good outing for the Orioles. Simon allowed 2 runs in the opening inning on a home run by Miguel Cabrera, then threw 7 more innings for the Orioles. In all, Alfredo allowed just 3 runs on 6 hits and 1 walk, striking out 5 in 8 solid innings. He receives no decision in a game won by Detroit, 4-3 in 11 innings.

In Washington, Michael Bourn (.296) had a walk and a hit, scored 2 runs and stole 2 more bases (58) for the Braves in their 7-4 win over the Nationals. Bourn is looking for his 3rd straight stolen base title!!

In Pittsburgh, Jason Jaramillo had a pinch-hit double in the 9th inning to start the game winning rally in a 4-3 win for the Pirates. "J.J." is 12 for 29 (.345) in just 12 games for Pittsburgh this year.......In Cleveland, Lou Marson had a hit in 3 at bats for the Indians, and then was removed for a pinch-hitter in the 9th inning. Carlos Santana hit a pinch home run to give the Indians a 6-5 walk-off win over the Twins......In Los Angeles, Gio Gonzalez won his 15th game of the year for the Athletics, beating the Angels, 3-1.

Ruiz' 3 hits not enough

2011-09-23T07:06:00.002-04:00

In Philadelphia, the Nationals took it to the Phillies, 6-1. Carlos Ruiz (.283) was a bright spot, getting 3 hits and driving in the Phillies' run in the 9th inning to avoid the shut out. Joe Savery threw a 1-2-3 9th inning........In New York, the Rays rebounded against the Yankees with a 15-8 victory. Greg Golson played center field and was 0 for 5.

red hot Donald gets 4 hits

2011-09-21T07:09:00.003-04:00

There were 2 day games on Tuesday to make up rain outs from earlier this year, and both were started by HomeSiders. In Philadelphia, Kyle Kendrick threw 6 excellent shut out innings against Washington, allowing just 4 hits and NO walks, striking out 4 and leaving the game in a scoreless tie. Mike Schwimer came on in the 7th in allowed 3 runs on 3 hits, the big hit a 3-run homer by Roger Bernadina. In the bottom of the 7th, Raul Ibanez tied it with a 3-run homer of his own. In the 8th, Joe Savery made his debut, allowing 1 hit and recording 1 out, then in the 10th, the Nationals scored the winning run off of Mike Stutes.

In Cleveland, the Indians defeated Gavin Floyd (12-12) and the White Sox, 4-3. Gavin allowed all 4 runs on 7 hits- including 3 Cleveland home runs- in 6.2 innings of work. He struck out 7, including Lou Marson 3 times, and walked nobody. In the night game, Jason Donald (.310) continues his strong September with 4 hits, but the Sox got the split with a 5-4 win. Donald is 7 for his last 9 this week! In the night game in Philly, Justin DeFratus made his 2nd appearance with another scoreless inning as Washington completed the sweep with a 3-0 win over Cliff Lee.

In Toronto, Kyle Drabek was used in relief against the Angels and was hit hard. Kyle gave up 6 runs on 7 hits and 1 walk in just 2 innings in the Angels' 10-6 win..............In Miami, Michael Bourn (.298) had a walk and a hit, drove in a run and scored another and stole his major league leading 56th base of the year for Atlanta in the Braves' 4-0 blanking of the Marlins.......In Oakland, Michael Taylor belted his first major league home run in the Athletics' 7-2 loss to Texas.

The Phillies have announced that after today's start, Vance Worley (11-2) will move to the bullpen in preparation for the playoffs, as the Phillies will not need a fifth starter in the postseason.

Monday in the majors

2011-09-20T12:05:00.003-04:00

In Philadelphia, Carlos Ruiz (.280) had 2 hits, including a double, scored a run and drove in another, but the Cardinals beat the Phillies again, 4-3.............In Cleveland, Jason Donald (.288) had 3 singles and scored 2 runs for the Indians, who lost 12-6 to Seattle..............In Miami, Michael Bourn (.298) had a hit and an RBI for the Braves in their 6-5 loss to the Marlins.........In Cincinnati, Jay Happ pitched 6 good innings for the Astros, allowing 2 runs on 3 hits and 3 walks, striking out 9 and receiving no decision in Houston's 3-2 victory.

De Fratus is #39

2011-09-19T07:02:00.002-04:00

Sunday night Justin De Fratus became the 39th former BlueClaw to play in a major league game. Justin threw a scoreless 9th inning in the Phillies' 5-0 loss to St Louis. Cole Hamels (14-9, 2.90) was the starter and victim of the non-support. Cole went 7 innings, allowing 4 runs on 7 hits, NO walks, striking out 9.

Matt Maloney was moved up to Sunday when Dontrelle Willis was unable to make his start, and Matt was pounded by Milwaukee to the tune of 7 runs (6 earned) on 9 hits in just 1.2 innings. As good as Maloney has been in AAA, he has still not gotten over the hump at the major league level. Similarly, in Baltimore, Alfredo Simon (4-9) also took his lumps, giving up 6 runs on 8 hits and a walk to the Angels in the Los Angeles' 11-2 win over the Orioles.........In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.299) had 2 hits, scored 2 runs and drove in another, but the Mets beat the Braves, 7-5.......In Minnesota, Lou Marson's good September continued, Lou getting 2 more hits and scoring a run for the Indians in Cleveland's 6-5 win over the Twins.

Phive in a row

2011-09-18T08:44:00.003-04:00

The Phillies scored 6 runs in the 8th inning to break open a close game and beat the Cardinals, 9-2, clinching their 5th straight division crown. Mike Stutes (3.77 and rising recently),who appears to be struggling right now, allowed 2 runs on 4 hits in just .2 innings, but recorded his 12th hold. Raul Ibanez hit a grand slam to highlight the big inning, and Jimmy Rollins picked up 4 hits to pace the Phillies offense.

In Oakland, Gio Gonzalez won his 14th game of the year for the Athletics with 7 good innings against Detroit. Gio allowed just 1 run on 8 hits and 2 walks, striking out 4 for his win.

Maloney to start Monday

2011-09-17T10:43:00.002-04:00

With Cincinnati's Johnny Cueto unable to make his scheduled start on Monday, the Reds have announced Matt Maloney will take on the Astros in his stead. Maloney was excited about the opportunity and confident to make the most of his 2nd major league start of this season. After starting the season in the Reds bullpen, Matt went to Louisville and compiled a 7-1, 2.99 record as a starter.

Maloney won 16 games for the 2006 BlueClaws, and won the clinching game of both playoff series! No one has won more game for the BlueClaws.

champagne still on ice

2011-09-17T08:32:00.002-04:00

First some catch up; I neglected to mention that Ryan Howard's game winning hit on Thursday night gave Mike Schwimer his first major league win.

Friday night, Schwimer took the loss in a 4-2, 11-inning defeat to the Cardinals. Howard sat out again, and once again came through with a pinch hit double with 2-out in the 9th, leading to the tying run scoring. Ryno is now 14 for 32 (that's .438) in his career as a pinch hitter. Vance Worley started and gave the Phillies 6 solid innings, leaving in a 1-1 tie. Antonio Bastardo threw 1 inning and allowed a home run to Yadier Molina, which raised his ERA to 2.10 in his 55 innings this season. The Phillies are 1 win away from clinching their 5th straight NL East title.

The Mets helped the Phillies move closer to that title by slamming the Braves, 12-2. Michael Bourn (.301) had a single and a triple, scored a run , stole his 55th base and threw out a runner at third base for Atlanta..........In Minnesota, Lou Marson (.235) had 2 hits, 2 RBI and stole a base for the Indians in their 7-6 win over the Twins. Lou is 7 for his last 22 (.318) over the last 6 games.

minor league notes

2011-09-17T08:20:00.003-04:00

The Columbus Clippers defeated the IronPigs, 4-1 to win their 2nd straight Governor's Cup. Lehigh Vallley managed just 4 hits, 1 by Freddy Galvis, as their most successful season since moving to Allentown concluded. After the game, the Phillies called up Domonic Brown, Justin De Fratus, Joe Savery, Eric Kratz and Brandon Moss. De Fratus will become the 39th former Claw to play in the majors if and when he gets into a game.

Baseball America has named their minor league All-Star team for 2011 and 2 former BlueClaws were honored. Eastern League MVP Travis d'Arnaud and Threhser pitcher Trevor May were both named to the team. Congratulation to both Travis and Trevor.

d'Arnaud and his teammates took a 5-3 game in Richmond Friday night to pull the New Hampshire Fisher Cats to within a game of the Eastern League title. In Sacramento, the Omaha Storm Chasers defeated the River Cats 11-6, completing a sweep of the PCL final.

Ryno gives Phillies sweep

2011-09-16T14:04:00.002-04:00

The Phillies moved closer to their destiny Thursday with 2 wins over the Florida Marlins. In the day game, Kyle Kendrick threw 5 solid innings, allowing just 1 run on only 2 hits, NO walks, and 6 Ks to record his 8th win of the season. Mike Stutes was good for 2 scoreless frames, getting credit for his 11th hold, and Antonio Bastardo earned his 17th, despite retiring just 1 of 3 hitters he faced in Philadelphia's 3-1 win. In the night game, Ryan Howard snapped an 0 for 15 skid with a game winning RBI (#113) double to give the Phillies a 2-1 win and a sweep of the day's activities.

The win for Kendrick was #85 for the HomeSide.

In Arlington, Jason Donald (.279) had a double and scored a run, and Lou Marson had a double and 2 RBI for the Indians, but the Texas Rangers took a 7-4 win from Cleveland.

In Allentown, the Columbus Clippers beat the IronPigs, 6-2, to take a 2-1 lead in best of 5 for the Governor's Cup. Freddy Galvis had a single and scored a run, and Domonic Brown had a walk in 4 plate appearances for Lehigh Valley. Chance Chapman had a nightmare, walking all 3 hitters he faced, each of them driving in a runner he inherited. Finally, Mike Zagurski came on to pick up the final out.

Lehigh Valley will try to stay alive and even the series tonight at Coca Cola Park.

In the Eastern League Final, Richmond and New Hampshire have split the first 2 games in Manchester, and will resume in Richmond tonight. Tuesday, the Flying Squirrels took a 10-9 thriller with 2 in the top of the 9th off of Bobby Korecky. Kevin Howard had 2 doubles, a walk, an RBI, and 2 runs scored, Travis d'Arnaud had a double, 3 walks, a stolen base and scored a run, and Anthony Gose had a walk and scored a run- all in a losing effort for the Fisher Cats. Wednesaday night, the Cats responded with a 7-5 series tying win. Howard had 3 more hits, including 2 more doubles and 2 more RBI, and Gose added a double, a walk, 2 stolen bases, 3 RBI and threw out a runner at second base!

IronPigs even heading home

2011-09-15T07:11:00.002-04:00

The Lehigh Valley IronPigs won the opener of the Governor's Cup final Tuesday night night, behind fine pitching by Scott Mathieson. In fact, after Mathieson (5 IP, 2 runs, 5 hits, 2 walks, 2 Ks), Joe Savery, Philippe Aumont and Justin DeFratus all threw scoreless relief, and rode Brandon Moss' 3-run first inning homer to a 5-2 win. Freddy Galvis added 2 hits and stole a base for Lehigh Valley.

Then, last night, the Clippers got even, scoring 4 in the 8th for a 4-1 series leveling win. The teams will move top Allentown this weekend to continue the best-of-5.

In the PCL series, Sacramento went to Omaha and lost both games, duplicating what they did in the opening round when they dropped both games in Reno. Tuesday, the Storm Chasers took a tense, 3-2 win, following it that up with a 15-4 win yesterday. Adrian Cardenas had 3 hits in the second game, including a 2-run home run in the first inning to give the River Cats a short lived lead. The Cats are coming home where they overcame to 0-2 deficit in the prior series.

Happ bests Hamels

2011-09-14T07:05:00.002-04:00

In Houston Tuesday, the HomeSide had a matchup of Jay Happ and Cole Hamels, and it was the Astros lefty who came out on top in a 5-2 Astros' win. Happ was still not himself, but he got through 6 innings and allowed just 1 run, 4 hits, 4 walks (again) to improve to 6-15 on the season. Hamels went 5, and gave up 5 runs (4 earned) on 9 hits and a walk, striking out 6. The Phillies runs came on home runs by Hunter Pence (#20) and Carlos Ruiz (his 9th). Mike Schwimer got through a scoreless inning despite allowing 2 hits and hitting a batter.

The win for Happ was #84 for the HomeSide.

In Baltimore, Alfredo Simon had a good outing, going 6 innings against the surging Rays. Simon allowed 2 runs on 6 hits and a walk, striking out 9 and receiving no decision in an eventual 5-2 Orioles victory............In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.301) had a hit and an RBI, and stole 2 more bases, increasing his major league leading total to 54, as the Braves stifled the Marlins, 7-1..........In Chicago, Justin Verlander won his 23rd game of the year with a 5-0 blanking of the White Sox. Gavin Floyd (12-11) was the starter and loser for the Sox, giving up 4 runs on 4 hits and 4 walks in 5.1 innings of work against the streaking Tigers..............In Oakland, Michael Taylor had a hit and a walk, and scored a run for the Athletics in their 6-3 loss to the Angels.

slow Monday

2011-09-13T07:12:00.002-04:00

Monday in Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.301) had 2 singles and a double and scored a run for the Braves in their 12-inning, 5-4 loss to the Marlins.......In Houston, former Phillie Brett Myers beat the Phillies, 5-1. Carlos Ruiz (.285) had a hit, but Ryan Howard was o for 4.

No other HomeSiders were in action.

weekend notes

2011-09-12T07:49:00.003-04:00

I will leave you on your own for most of the major league weekend but here are a few notes: Mike Stutes won his 6th game (#83 for the HomeSide) in relief, Ryan Howard hit his 33rd home run (112 RBI), and Jason Jaramillo had a 2 for 2 appearance for the Pirates, and is 3 for 6 since his recall.

Vance Worley, Matt Maloney and Josh Outman all took losses over the weekend, while Sergio Escalona has been placed on the 60-day DL with an ankle sprain.

Cats bounce Reading; Pigs advance

2011-09-12T07:18:00.005-04:00

I have been out of town for my family reunion, but I can catch up quickly.

Friday night in Manchester, led by 3 hits each by Tuffy Gosewisch and Derrick Mitchell, Reading evened their series at a game apiece, with an 11-2 beating of the Fisher Cats. Tuffy had 2 doubles and an RBI, while Mitchell had a single, double, and triple and drove in 5. The scene then shifted to Reading, where New Hampshire won 1-0 on Saturday and eliminated the R-Phils Sunday, 4-2.

On Saturday, Anthony Gose had a walks and stolen base, Kevin Howard had a hit, Travis d'Arnaud had 2 hits and Bobby Korecky closed it out for the Fisher Cats, as the Phillies wasted a fine effort by Austin Hyatt. Hyatt allowed just 1 run on only 3 hits, NO walks and struck out 9, and was a victim of nonsupport, Reading getting just 3 single in the game. Gosewisch homered on Sunday, and hit .357 for the R-Phils in the series, but New Hampshire ended their season, with Korecky saving all 3 of their wins. It was a good year in Reading, but it is the former Phils who will play for the Eastern League title, taking on the Richmond.

The IronPigs won in a walk-off Friday night in Allentown, 3-2 as Freddy Galvis singled and scored the winning run on a Brandon Moss single. Mike Zaguski threw 1.1 scoreless innings, and Justin DeFratus was the winning pitcher, striking out 5 of the 6 hitters he faced. The series then moved to Pawtucket, where Brian Bass threw a complete game 5-hitter, giving up just an UNearned run in the bottom of the 9th of the series clinching 3-1 win. The victory puts Lehigh Valley in their first ever International League Championship series, where they will take on Columbus.

Out west, after dropping the first 2 games of their series in Reno, the Sacramento River Cats won 3 in a row at home to advance to the PCL finals again. The Cats won 5-2 on Friday, 8-2 on Saturday and wrapped it up with a 13-2 laugher Sunday. Adrian Cardenas had 2 hits and a walk, driving in 3 runs in the clincher. Sacramento will play in their 4th Pacific Coast League title series in the last 5 years, taking on Omaha for the championship.

Cole cool again

2011-09-09T10:56:00.002-04:00

Cole Hamels threw a complete game 4-hitter to lead the Phillies to a 7-2 win over the Brewers in Milwaukee Thursday night. Cole (14-7, 2.60) was never in trouble, both runs coming on solo home runs, and used just 111 pitches to finish the game. Carlos Ruiz had an RBI double and scored a run for the Phils in their 6-run 6th inning rally.

In Baltimore, Alfredo Simon started for the Orioles and pitched 4 rough innings against the Yankees. Simon gave up 4 runs on 6 hits and 6 walks and received no decision in the Orioles' 5-4 extra inning win.........In New York, Michael Bourn went 1 for 7, with a walk, 2 runs scored, an RBI and his 51st stolen base, as the Braves won both games of a doubleheader from the Mets, 6-5 and 5-1.............In Chicago, Gavin Floyd pitched 5.1 innings for the White Sox, allowing the Indians 1 run on 5 hits and 2 walks, striking out 4 and leaving the game in a 1-1 tie. The Sox went to an 8-1 win later.

The win by Hamels was #82 for the HomeSide.

Phormer Phils top Reading

2011-09-09T10:39:00.002-04:00

Anthony Gose and Travis d'Arnaud had 2 hits each, including combining for a run in the 1st inning, to help the New Hampshire Fisher Cats beat Reading, 2-0 in the first game of their playoff series. Reading managed just 4 hits on the night, wasting a very good performance by Tyler Cloyd. Tyler scattered 8 hits and 2 walks over 6.2 innings, striking out 8 and keeping the R-Phils in the game. Bobby Korecky threw the 9th inning to pick up the save for New Hampshire. Reading will turn to J.C. Ramirez to try to get even in game 2 tonight.

In Allentown, Freddy Galvis homered and the IronPigs won their first ever playoff game, 4-2 over Pawtucket. Justin DeFratus threw a 1-2-3 9th inning and notched the save. Lehigh Valley will try to make it 2 in a row at Coca Cola Park Friday night.

In Reno, Adrian Cardenas took an 0 for 4 and the Sacramento River Cats dropped a 4-2 decision to the Aces and fell behind 2 games to 0 in the best of 5 series.

Collier suspended

2011-09-08T22:16:00.002-04:00

The commisioner's office has suspended Zack Collier for 50 games after testing positve for a banned substance. Collier hit .255 this season for the BlueClaws with 35 stolen bases.

Aces top River Cats

2011-09-08T09:51:00.002-04:00

In Reno, the Aces upset the favored Sacramento River Cats, 7-4 in game 1 of their series. Adrian Cardenas had an RBI single for the Cats, who will try to even things Thursday night.

In the other PCL series, the Omaha Storm Chasers took a 3-0 decision in Round Rock, and both series in the International League were rained out, as were the Eastern League games. All 4 of these series will try again Thursday.

Another day, another win in Philly

2011-09-08T09:11:00.002-04:00

The weather has not changed this week, and neither have the results in Philadelphia. The Phillies completed the sweep of the Braves with a 3-2 come-from-behind victory that all but sews up another division title for the Fightin' Phils. Carlos Ruiz (.280) had a hit and scored a run for Philadelphia, and Antonio Bastardo (1.66) threw another scoreless inning of relief. Michael Bourn (.298) had a double in 5 at bats, and scored a run for Atlanta.

In Pittsburgh, Jason Jaramillo (.353 in limited action) had a pinch hit single to drive in the winning run for the Pirates in a 5-4 win over the Astros. Here is the scenario: It's a 4-4 game with 2 runners on and J.J. coming up to pinch hit. The Astros call on Sergio Escalona, fresh off the DL. Jaramillo singles to drive in the go ahead run, but the Astros get 2 outs on the play, throwing out Ryan Doumit at home and nipping Jaramillo at second. So Escalona faced 1 hitter, allowed a single and got outs! Jay Happ started the game for Houston and allowed 4 runs on 5 hits and 4 walks, striking out 8 along the way...........In Oakland, Michael Taylor had a single and scored a run for the A's in their 7-0 win over the Royals.......In New York, Greg Golson got into the game and had a hit in 2 at bats for the Yankees, in their 11-inning, 5-4 loss to Baltimore...........In Cleveland, the Tigers completed the sweep of the Indians with an 8-6 win, finishing off a 6-0 stretch against the 2 teams closest to them to put a fork in the AL Central race. Jason Donald (.294) had a hit for Indians. The Indians have announced that Carlos Carrasco will have Tommy John surgery on September 14th, which will wipe out Carlos' 2012 season.

Vance does it again

2011-09-07T07:46:00.003-04:00

The Phillies beat the Braves 6-3 while dodging the raindrops in Philadelphia last night. Vance Worley went the first 6 innings, and allowed just 2 runs on 7 hits and 3 walks to improve to 11-1, 2.85 in his outstanding rookie year. Mike Stutes (3.69) notched his 11th hold with 1 inning of work, despite allowing a run. Michael Bourn (.299) had 3 hits (2 off Worley and a double off Stutes), stole his league leading 50th base, and scored a run for Atlanta. Ryan Howard (.254) was 1 for 3 , with a walk and drove in run #108.

The win for Worley was #81 for the HomeSide.

In Oakland, Michael Taylor got his first major league hit, a double, in Oakland's 7-4 loss to the Royals, who beat Gio Gonzalez (12-12).

On the wire this morning, Greg Golson has been recalled by the Yankees, and Sergio Escalona has been activated off the DL by the Astros.

Carrasco

2011-09-06T16:52:00.002-04:00

The Cleveland Indians have moved Carlos Carrasco from the 15-day to the 60-day DL, freeing a spot on the 40-man roster. Carlos and the Indians are exploring their options with regards to his elbow inflammation, and surgery is still a possibility.

IronPigs earn first playoff spot

2011-09-06T10:46:00.002-04:00

Lehigh Valley beat both the Syracuse Chiefs and mother nature, taking a 4-1 rain shorted season finale to clinch their first ever playoff berth. Brandon Moss had 2 hits, 2 walks, and RBI, and threw out a runner at home, and Nate Bump (5-9) allowed just 1 run on 5 hits in 5 innings.

The IronPigs will play game 1 of the best-of-5 series Wednesday at home against Pawtucket.

R-Phils are in

2011-09-06T10:32:00.003-04:00

Matt Rizzotti (.295) had 3 hits and drove in 3 runs (team leading 84) to lead the Reading Phillies into the playoffs with a 6-2 win in Binghamton. Mike Spidale had 2 more hits to finish the regular season at .326, 3rd best in the league! Tyson Brummett came up big, giving Reading 6 solid innings, and giving up just 2 runs on 8 hit, NO walks, and struck out 6 to win his 4th game of the year. Mike Cisco (1.59) threw 2 scoreless frames for his 5th hold.

Tyler Cloyd will get the start in game 1 in Manchester, New Hampshire Wednesday night. The Fisher Cats wrapped up their year with an 8-3 win in Portland. Anthony Gose (.253) had 3 hits (including his 16th home run!), and a walk, scored 3 times and stole base #70. If Reading hopes to win this series, they must keep Gose off the bases, and watch out for league MVP Travis d'Arnaud, who finished at .311, with 21 home runs and 78 RBI.

Howard hits #31

2011-09-06T10:12:00.002-04:00

The Phillies are putting an early end to any hopes the Braves may have had to catch them, pounding Atlanta 9-0, behind a complete game shut out by Cliff Lee. For Lee (16-7, 2.47), it was his 6th shut out of the year, the most in the NL since Tim Belcher(!) threw 8 in 1989 for the Dodgers. Ryan Howard (.254) had 2 hits, including his 31st home run (107 RBI), and 2 walks, and Carlos Ruiz (.281) had a hit and 2 RBI. Michael Bourn (.296) was 0 for 4 for Atlanta.

In Cleveland, Jason Donald (.296) had another hit in the Indians' 4-2 loss to Detroit. Donald is .385 over the last 10 games, and appears to be completely healthy.

A final note, the Blue Jays have recalled Kyle Drabek, now that his AAA season has ended.

Sunday's best

2011-09-05T09:38:00.002-04:00

The Florida Marlins outlasted the Phillies Sunday afternoon, 5-4 in 14 innings. Ryan Howard (.251) had 2 hits and 3 walks, driving in 2 runs (106), and Carlos Ruiz (.281) added a hit and scored a run. Mike Schwimer allowed a run on a hit and 3 walks in his inning, and Mike Stutes (3.59) threw 2 shut out frames, strikingout 4.................In Kansas City, Lou Marson (.232) had 3 hits and a walk, and scored a run for the Indians in Cleveland's 9-6 win over the Royals. Jason Donald (.291 since recall) had 2 hits, stole a base and drove in a run, to contribute to the Tribe's cause........In Oakland, Josh Outman threw a scoreless inning of relief for the Athletics, in their 8-5 win over the Mariners.

In Syracuse, the IronPigs rallied for 6 runs in the final 3 innings to come from behind to top the Chiefs, 7-4. Scott Mathieson was good, throwing 3 shut out innings before running into trouble in the 4th. In the end, Scott went 4.1 innings, and allowed all 4 runs on 6 hits and 6 walks, and really, it could have been worse. Mike Zagurski (2.65) got the next 5 out (2 walks, 2 Ks), and Joe Savery threw the final 2 innings to notch his 2nd save. A win today, or a loss by Gwinnett, and Lehigh Valley will make the playoffs for the first time! The assignment will go to Nate Bump in the finale.

In Binghamton, Brent Clevlen (.333) had 3 hits, including his 5th home run since joining the team, and Tim Kennelly hit a game winning home run in the 9th inning to give Reading a 5-4 win over the Mets. Austin Hyatt started for the R-Phils, and went 6.1 innings, allowing 4 runs on 8 hits, NO walks, and struck out 6. Jacob Diekman (3.05) got the next 4 outs, and B.J. Rosenberg got the final 4, picking up his 5th win of the year. Reading remains 1 game ahead of New Britain with 1 game left. If the teams end up tied after Monday's game, there will be a 1-game playoff to decide who will face New Hampshire in the Eastern League's Eastern Division playoffs.

In Scranton, the Yankees and the Bisons split a doubleheader. Buffalo won the opener, 5-1, and Scranton came back for a 2-0 win in the nightcap. Greg Golson (.263) had 3 hits in 5 at bat, including a triple and a home run, scored twice and drove in 2 more on a day where runs were hard to come by..............In Colorado Spring, Adrian Cardenas (.315) had 3 hits, stole a base, and scored 2 runs for the River Cats as Sacramento beat the SkySox, 8-7 in 13 innings.........In Chatanooga, Will Savage made just his 2nd relief appearance of the year, throwing 4 innings for the Lookouts, allowing 2 runs on 6 hits, NO walks, and 4 Ks. Will picked up a save to go with his 12 wins, and the Lookouts clinched a spot in the Southern League playoffs...........In Tulsa, Edgar Garcia got a rare start for the Naturals, and picked up a win with 5 good innings. Garcia (2-3, 3.47) allowed just 1 runs on 4 hits, NO walks and 3 Ks to lead Northwest Arkansas to the 6-4 win over the Drillers...............In San Antonio, Jarred Cosart was hit hard in his final start for the Hooks. Cosart (1-2, 4.71 since his trade and promotion) allowed 10 runs (9 earned) on 8 hits (4 home runs) and 4 walks in the Hooks' 10-3 loss to the Missions. Jonathan Villar (.231) was 1 for 4 for Corpus Christi.

In Clearwater, 19-year old Gustavo Gonzalez belted a walk-off 3-run home run in the bottom of the 9th inning to give the Threshers a 5-4 win over Dunedin. Julio Rodriguez finished his season with 5 strong frames, giving up 2 runs on 3 hits, and striking out 8. J-Rod ends up 16-7, 2.76 for 2011.

Reading can clinch a spot today

2011-09-04T10:30:00.002-04:00

In Binghamton, the Reading Phillies moved a little closer to the playoffs with a 6-5 win over the Mets Saturday. Mike Spidale (.326, 2 RBI), Matt Rizzotti and Derrick Mitchell all had 2 hits for Reading, now leads New Britain (who split 2 games with Trenton) by 1 game with 2 to play. After 3+ shaky inning by Joe Esposito (5 runs, 3 earned, on 8 hits), Chris Kissock came on to settle things down and allow the R-Phils to rally. Kissock earned his 3rd win with 4 shut out innings in which he struck out 6.

In Portland, New Hampshire is tuning up for the playoff, putting an 11-0 beating on the Sea Dogs. Both Kevin Howard and Travis d'Arnaud homered for the Cats. For Travis (.311) it was his 21st home run of the year................In Huntsville, Darren Byrd (2.95) threw 3 innings in relief, and allowed 1 UNearned run on 3 hits, striking out 3 along the way in for the Stars in their 6-5 loss to Mobile..............In San Antonio, Jonathan Villar had 3 hits, including 2 doubles, for Corpus Christi in their 11-1 loss to the Missions. Josh Zeid threw 2 perfect innings to finish it for the Hooks.........In Lancaster, Jonathan Singleton had 2 RBI with 2 sac flies, and also walked 2 time in the JetHawks' 11-3 win over Lake Elsinore. Singleton is hitting .339 since being traded.

Jonathan Pettibone had his final start of the year shortened to 2 innings by a rain delay. "Bone" finishes 10-11 with a nice 2.96 ERA on the year. Juan Sosa came on and threw 4 good innings, allowing just 1 run on 2 hits and 1 walk. The listless Threshers lost 6-2, with D'Arby Myers getting 2 of their 5 hits on the night. It has been hard for Myers to get playing time again this year, but he has remained ready and has played well when called upon.

Lisalberto Bonilla threw 5 shut out innings in his final game of the season, allowing just 4 hits and 2 walks. Mike McGuire gave up the lead late and the Claws lost, 6-5. Zack Collier (.254) was 3 for 3 with a sacrifice, and stole his 34th base, and Cameron Rupp had 2 hits, including his 4th home run of the year, driving in all 5 runs for Lakewood.

Pigs thisclose!

2011-09-04T10:06:00.002-04:00

In Allentown, the IronPigs took a big step towards their first playoff berth in team history with a 3-0 win over Buffalo in the final home game of the regular season. Justin DeFratus pitched the 9th inning, recording his 7th save. With Gwinnett splitting a doubleheader with Charlotte, the IronPigs have a 1 game advantage with 2 games to go.

In Rochester, Andy Baldwin ended a long winless drought with 8 good innings for the Red Wings in their 6-3 win over Syracuse. Baldwin (7-13, 5.51) allowed 3 runs on 9 hits and 3 walks, winning for just 2nd time since July 16............In Colorado Springs, Adrian Cardenas (.313) had 2 singles, a double, 2 walks, and scored 4 runs for the playoff-bound River Cats in a 16-4 thrashing of the SkySox. Jesus Merchan (.303) had a single, a double and a triple for Colorado Springs....................In Indianapolis, Quintin Berry got his first AAA hit, stole 2 bases and scored 2 runs for Louisville, but the Bats dropped an 8-7 decision to the Indians. (sounds like a Mudcats game!).............In Pawtucket, Greg Golson had a hit and a walk, drove in a run and scored another one, but the Yankees lost to the Sox, 12-7..............In Las Vegas, Kyle Drabek pitched 7 innings for the 51s without walking a batter, a major step in the right direction for him. Kyle gave up 6 runs on 8 hits, but squeaked out the win in an 11-8 slugfest!..............

3 strikes

2011-09-04T09:28:00.003-04:00

3 HomeSiders started major league game on Saturday, all 3 were handed leads, and none of them recorded wins in an amazing day of comebacks across the country. Chronologically, here we go now:

In Detriot, the Chicago White gave Gavin Floyd an 8-1 win in the top of the 5th inning, but Gavin struggled to fininsh the bottom half. The Tigers began their comeback with 3 in the 5th, and Gavin was done- 5 IP, 4 runs, 4 hits, NO walks, 4 Ks and an 8-4 lead. Detroit then scored 1 in the 7th, 1 in the 8th and 3 in the 9th on home runs by Ryan Rayburn and Miguel Cabrera for a 9-8 win.

In St.Pete, the Baltimore Orioles gave Alfredo Simon a 2-run lead before he ever went out to the mound, only to give the 2 runs back to the Rays in bottom of the inning. It was all downhill from there, as Tampa took a 6-3 win. Simon went 5 innings, 6 runs, 7 hits and 4 walks to slip to 4-8, 4.64 for Baltimore this year.

In Miami, the Phillies gave Cole Hamels a 3-0 advantage, and Cole left after 7 with a 4-3 lead. Antonio Bastardo was the losing pitcher, his first loss of the season. Bastardo (6-1, 1.69) walked both hitters he faced to start the 8th inning. Of course, David Herndon let them score, along with 3 more to give the Marlins an 8-4 win. Carlos Ruiz had 2 more hit and scored 2 runs. Chooch is hitting .341 since July 30, raising his season average to .281.

Before the game, the Phillies recalled Mike Schwimer from Lehigh Valley.

R-Phils, Pigs still alive!

2011-09-03T09:29:00.003-04:00

In Binghamton, Mike Spidale (.325) had 2 hits, including his 5th home run of the season, and the R-Phils topped the Mets, 4-2. J.C. Ramirez (11-13, 4.50) threw 6.1 shut out innings for Reading, allowing just 3 hits and 3 walks, striking out 6 to gain the victory. With Trenton beating New Britain, Reading is now a half game in front of the Rock Cats for the final playoff spot.

In Allentown, the IronPigs took a 2-1 decision from Buffalo to keep their playoff hopes alive. Lehigh Valley is a half game ahead of Gwinnett, who was rained out Friday.

The Dunedin Blue Jays eliminated the Threshers from the playoffs with a doubleheader sweep Friday night over Clearwater. The Jays won 4-1, and 4-2, ending the Clearwater hopes for post season play. In The opener, Clearwater got just 4 hits, 2 by Jeremy Barnes (.266), who drove in the lone run. David Buchanan was the losing pitcher, giving up 4 runs on 8 hits, without recording an out in the 4th. Trevor May allowed 4 runs, 3 earned, on 2 hits and 4 walks over 4 innings in the second game. Darin Ruf (.308) had 2 doubles in that game.

In Hagerstown, Cameron Rupp (.270) had 2 doubles and 3 RBI, but Lakewood lost to the Suns, 6-5. Miguel Alverez also had 2 hits for the Claws in a game that saw Phillies' Joe Blanton throw the first inning.

In Portland, the Sea Dogs beat New Hampshire, 6-5. Kevin Howard had 2 hits for the Fisher Cats, and Anhony Gose had a hit and stole base #69. It looks like Gose will come up a little short of the 76 he stole for Lakewood in 2009. Travis d'Arnaud (.313) added a double and a walk to the New Hampshire cause..........In Lexington, Domingo Santana had a double and a walk, scoring a run and driving in another one as the Legends beat Savannah, 7-3.............In Indianapolis, Quintin Berry made his AAA debut, going 0 for 4 for Louisville in the Bats' 5-2 win over the Indians. Mike Costanzo had 2 hits, including a double and an RBI for the Bats.......In Memphis, the RedBirds beat Nashville, 7-5. Zack Segovia threw a scoreless inning for the Sounds.........In Iowa City, the Omaha Storm Chasers blasted the Cubs, 15-5. Robinson Tejeda threw a scoreless frame for Omaha.............In Colorado Springs, Adrian Cardenas (.309) had 2 hits for Sacramento, helping the River Cats overcome the SkySox, 12-7.

Bourn swipes 2 more, Donald goes deep for Tribe

2011-09-03T09:07:00.002-04:00

In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.300) had 2 hits and a walk, drove in a run, scored another one, and stole 2 more bases for a major league leading total of 49. The Dodgers rallied for 5 in the 7th for an 8-6 victory..............In Kansas City, Jason Donald (.296) had 2 hits, including his first home run this year, to help the Indians to a 5-4 win over the Royals to stay 5.5 games in back of the surging Tigers..........In Miami, the Phillies beat the Marlins, 5-3. Carlos Ruiz (.279) had a hit and 2 walks and Mike Stutes (3.73, 2 hitters, 2 outs) and Antonio Bastardo (1.35, 3 hitters, 3 outs) each recorded a hold............Late last night in Oakland, Michael Taylor made his major league debut for the Athletics, going 0 for 3 with a walk in the A's 9-2 win over Seattle. Taylor becomes the 38th former BlueClaw to make it to the major leagues.

The Phillies placed Drew Carpeneter on waivers and he was immediately claimed by San Diego.

Taylor to the show

2011-09-02T18:02:00.002-04:00

The Oakland Athletics have called up Michael Taylor from Sacramento. Taylor hit .272 with 16 home run and 64 RBI in 93 games with the first place River Cats.

Q moves up

2011-09-02T10:09:00.002-04:00

The Reds have moved Quintin Berry up from AA Carolina to AAA Louisville for the final weekend.

Claypool and Cloyd

2011-09-02T08:28:00.002-04:00

The Lakewood BlueClaws single season home record will remain at 22, as Jim Murphy had his hand broken in his final at bat Tuesday night and will not play again this season. "Murph" tied Juan Richardson's 2001 mark on August 8, but failed to hit another one. Lakewood began their final series with a 10-1 win in Hagerstown Thursday, improving to 35-30 in the second half (68-65 overall). Carlos Alonso (329) had 3 more hit, including a double and 3 RBI to pace the 16-hit attack. Jeff Lanning played first base, and he did his best Murphy imitation, hitting a home run in the 9th inning (his 5th of the year)- 1 of his 3 hits in the game. Anthony Hewitt (2 doubles), Zack Collier and Cameron Rupp all chipped in with 2 hits each, and Garrett Claypool came off the DL to throw 6 shut out innings (3 hits, NO walks) and record his 5th win. Chase Johnson and Ryan Duke (also fresh off the DL) finished it up.

The Threshers game in Dunedin was postponed, and they will try to play 2 tonight with Clearwater's playoff hopes squarely on the line. Clearwater needs to win 3 of the last 4 to make the playoffs.

Tyler Cloyd (6-3, 2.78) pitched 6.2 splendid innings in a pressure packed situation as the Reading Phillies beat the Aeros, 6-1 in Akron. Cloyd, who has been fantastic since joining the R-Phils, allowed just 1 run on 8 hits and 1 walk, striking out 5. B.J. Rosenberg got the final 7 outs to get his 2nd save. Troy Hanzawa got his first 2 hits since his promotion and scored 2 runs, and Mike Spidale (.324) and Matt Rizzotti (.291) were among other with 2 hits, as Reading kept pace with New Britain, who won in Richmond, 8-0. The Rock Cats remain a half game ahead of the Phillies in the race for the final playoff spot. Reading wraps up with 4 games in Binghamton, New Britain goes home to face Trenton for 5 in 4 days.

In Lexington, Domingo Santana had 2 more hits for the Legends and drove in 3 runs (52), but Lexington lost to Savannah, 6-5. Domingo is hitting .397 in 14 games with the Legends................In Lancaster, Jonathan Singleton had 2 hits and scored 2 runs to help the JetHawks to a 6-2 win over Visalia. Jonathan is hitting .342 in 31 games with Lancaster.........In Trenton, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats shut out the Thunder, 2-0. Anthony Gose drove in 1 of the runs (his 56th RBI), and Bobby Korecky struck out 2 of 3 hitters to record his 12th save...........In Sacramento, Michael Taylor's 16th home run, a 3-run shot in the 3rd inning, got the River Cats off to an early lead, and the cruised to a 7-1 win over Las Vegas.

J.J. recalled, Ryno belts #30

2011-09-02T07:59:00.004-04:00

The first note of interest this morning is that the Pirates have recalled Jason Jaramillo from AAA Indianapolis. They used him as a pinch hitter Thursday afternoon against the Dodgers, and he grounded out...............In Cleveland, Gio Gonzalez helped the Ath;etics salvage a game in their finale against the Indians, throwing 7 shut out innings, and giving up just 4 hits and 4 walks, to notch his 12th win of the year in the A's 7-0 win. The Indians got just 5 hits altogether, 2 by Lou Marson and 1 by Jason Doanld...............In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.299) had a hit and a walk, as the Braves beat the Nationals, 5-2...........In Cincinnati, Vance Worley improved his mark to 10-1 on the year with 6 solid innings against the Reds to give the Phillies a sweep of their 4-game set. Vance tired in the 7th, facing 3 hitters and not retiring anyone before coming out. Antonio Bastardo (1.38) retired all 5 hitters he faced, striking out 3 of them, for his 15th hold of they year. Ryan Howard (.250) had 2 more hits, including his 30th home run (and 104th RBI) to begin his September. Ryan has typically heated up in the final month of the season.

The win by Vance Worley gives the HomeSide a total of 80 major league wins this year!

and so it begins

2011-09-01T12:39:00.001-04:00

Matt Maloney has been recalled by the Cincinnati Reds, the first of quite a few I imagine we will get as the rosters are all expanded.

on the brink for the final weekend

2011-09-01T11:43:00.005-04:00

This season, and the playoff spots for the post season, are all coming right down to the end:

In Viera, the Threshers and the Manatees split a doubleheader, with Clearwater winning the opener, 2-0 behind Brody Colvin. Colvin (3-8, 4.71) came within 1 out of a complete game, throwing 6.2 innings of shut out ball, scattering 6 hits and 2 walks. Jiwan James (.270) had 2 hits and stole his 30th base, and Cesar Hernandez (.270) added 2 hits, and drove in a run. The other RBI went to team leader Darrin Ruf, his 81st. In game 2, Clearwater got just 2 hits and lost, 4-2. With Dunedin winning their game, 7-2 over Lakeland, the Threshers are now 1.5 games out. Clearwater will need to win 3 of the final 4 games to pass the Blue Jays, as the teams match up for the final 4 games starting tonight.

In Akron, home runs by Matt Rizzotti (#24) and Derrick Mitchell (19) helped Reading to an early 5-1 lead over the Aeros, but the home team came back, eventually winning 6-5 in the 13th inning. Tyson Brummett pitched the first 7 innings, and gave up 3 runs on 5 hits, leaving with a 2-run lead. Les Walrond gave up the tying runs in his inning, before Mike Cisco came on for 3 excellent frames of 1-hit ball. Jacob Diekman got through the 12th before getting into trouble in the 13th. New Britain also lost, so the Rock Cats stay a half game ahead of the Phillies for the final spot.

In Lehigh Valley, the IronPigs dropped their 4th straight, this time 6-2 to Scranton. The IronPigs' slide finds them 2 games behind Pawtucket, and in a 3-team fight for the wild card with Gwinnett and Indianapolis, who has won 4 in a row to get back in it. While it seemed very unlikely all year long, the truth is Lehigh Valley could miss the playoffs!

In Lancaster, the JetHawks split a doubleheader with Visalia. The JetHawks took the opener behind 2 hits and an RBI by Jonathan Singleton, 3-2. Singleton (.336 since being traded) walked 3 times in the second game, a 12-3 Visalia victory.............In Corpus Christi, Jonathan Villar (.229 since promotion, .240 overall) had 2 hits and stole his 14th base for the Hooks (34th overall), who lost to Frisco, 6-5................In Trenton, Anthony Gose walked, stole 2 bases (# 67 & 68) and scored a run for New Hampshire, but the Thunder won the game, 7-2.

HAPPiness is a win for J.A.

2011-09-01T08:17:00.002-04:00

Jay Happ won his first major league game since July 19, throwing 7 shut out innings against the Pirates, as the Astros completed the sweep of Pittsburgh, 2-0. Jay (5-15) allowed just 3 hits and 1 walk, striking out 6 to end the drought and even his career mark at 24-24.........In Cleveland, the Indians got a much needed win with a 4-3, 16-inning victory over the A's. Tied at 3 going to the 15th, Oakland turned to Josh Outman. Outman allowed a lead-off double by Jason Donald, J.D.'s second hit of the game, but got out of the inning unscored upon. The Indians got to him for the winning run an inning later, dropping him to 3-4 on the season............In Cincinnati, Carlos Ruiz, having another of his late season hitting streaks, had 3 hits to help Cliff Lee win his 15th game, 3-0 over the Reds. Ruiz is now hitting .278, and Ryan Howard dove in his 103rd run.

The win by Happ was the 79th for the HomeSide!

Riz, J-Rod & Maloney

2011-08-31T17:54:00.003-04:00

In Akron, Matt Rizzotti hit 2 home runs (22 & 23), and Steve Singleton had 3 hits and 2 RBI as the Reading Phillies beat the Aeros, 7-1. Austin Hyatt (12-6, 3.77) was the winning pitcher, throwing 6 good innings and allowing just 1 run on 7 hits, striking out 8. Jacob Diekman, B.J. Rosenberg and Justin Friend threw a scoreless frame each. In Trenton, Kevin Howard had 2 hits and 2 RBI, and Anthony Gose had a hit and stole his 66th base of the year as the New Hampshire Fisher Cats edged the Thunder, 3-2...............In Allentown, the Scranton Yanks outlasted the IronPigs, 4-1 in 14 innings. Greg Golson (.263) had a hit and a walk and stole his 14th base for Scranton. Freddy Galvis (.324) had 3 more hits for Lehigh Valley. (He could certainly be a September call-up after the playoffs are over.) Justin DeFratus struck out 4 hitters in 2 innings but gave up the tying run in the 9th inning and Mike Zagurski threw 3 scoreless frames (1 hit, 1 walk, 4 Ks).

The Threshers wasted another prime performance by Julio Rodriguez Tuesday, losing to the Manatees, 1-0. Julio (16-7, 2.73) allowed just 1 hit and 2 walks, striking out 10 in his 6 shut out innings. The Threshers (34-29) are 1 game behind Dunedin and just a half-game ahead of Tampa.

In Louisville, Matt Maloney was awesome, throwing 8 solid innings against Columbus and giving up just 1 run on 2 hits and 1 walk, to improve to 7-1, 2.99 for the Bats.............In Corpus Christi, Jarred Cosart got his first win for the Hooks, with 5 very good innings against Frisco. Cosart allowed just 1 run on 4 hits and 2 walks, striking out 5 as the Hooks beat the RoughRiders, 7-1. Jarred has made 6 starts for the Astros affiliate, and has given up just 10 runs in 32.1 innings of work for a 2.78 ERA since his trade and promotion. Jonathan Villar had a walk and scored a run in the game for Corpus Christi..............In Jackson, Jesus Sanchez picked up a win in relief for Huntsville. Jesus (4-7) entered the game in the 5th inning and began by stranding that runner. In all, he pitched 3.2 innings, allowing 2 runs on 3 hits and 1 walk, both run scoring on solo home runs. The Stars scored 4 in the 8th to top the Generals, 6-3................In Montgomery, Quintin Berry (.297) had a hit and 2 walks, and scored a run for the Mudcats in Carolina's 7-3 win over the Biscuits............In Indianapolis, Jason Jaramillo (.276) had 2 hits and a walk, and scored a run for the Indians in their 12-inning, 5-4 win over Toledo............In Omaha, Round Rock defeated the Storm Chasers, 3-2. Robinson Tejeda pitched 2.2 innings for Omaha, giving up 1 run.

Ryno powers Phils to win

2011-08-31T10:08:00.002-04:00

Ryan Howard hit 2 home runs (28 & 29), and drove in 3 runs (102) to lead the Phillies to a 9-0 victory over the Reds in Cincinnati. Carlos Ruiz added a hit, a walk, and scored a run and Mike Schwimer threw a scoreless inning of relief. After the game, Schwimer was sent back to Lehigh Valley........In Cleveland, the Indians beat the Athletics, 6-2. Jason Donald and Lou Marson had a hit apiece for the Tribe..............In Atlanta, the Nationals were all over the Braves, 9-2. Michael Bourn (.301) had 1 hit and added an outfield assist, doubling a runner off at first base. It was the 4th assist of the year for Mike.

some good, some not so good

2011-08-30T09:12:00.003-04:00

In Corpus Christi, Jonathan Villar had 3 hits, a walk, stole 2 bases, drove in a run, and scored 3 times out of the lead-off spot as the Hooks manhandled the Missions, 8-3. On the front page of milb.com, there is a link for a video of Villar's home run on Sunday...............After a string of 9.2 scoreless innings over 5 appearances, Edgar Garcia had a rough time Monday. Garcia (1-3, 3.73) was stretched to 4 innings, and allowed 8 runs, 5 earned, on 6 hits-4 home runs- and 2 walks, and was the losing pitcher in the Naturals' wild 13-9, 10-inning loss to Tulsa...............In Mobile, the Bay Bears beat Will Savage and the Lookouts by the score of 4-2. Savage (12-6, 3.93) gave up 4 runs on 8 hits, the big blow a 3-run home run by Mobile's Ryan Wheeler. Will also walked 3 and threw 2 wild pitches, very unlike him...................In Jackson, Darren Byrd (3.10) threw 2 perfect innings for Huntsville, striking out 3 of his 6 hitters to record his 5th hold, in the Stars' 6-4 win over the Generals........In Charleston, Domingo Santana hit his 12th home run of the year, his 5th in 12 games with the Legends, but Lexington lost to West Virginia, 17-9. Santana is 18 for 50, that's .360 since the trade.

In Trenton, Travis d'Arnaud (.315) had 3 hits, including his 20th home run, and drove in 5 runs (76), to lead the New Hampshire Fisher Cats to a 10-4 win over the Thunder. Travis is having an MVP caliber season, in the top 6 in batting average, home runs and RBI in the league!!

Not sure if I mentioned: Joe Bisenius on the DL for Charlotte......Troy Hanzawa promoted from Clearwater to Reading over the weekend.........Bobby Korecky promoted to Las Vegas from New Hampshire.

In Scranton, the Yankees and Pawtucket split a doubleheader. Greg Golson (.264) was 2 for 5 with a walk, and scored a run for the Yankees...............In Allentown, the Syracuse Chiefs shut out the IronPigs in BOTH games of their doubleheader. In the opener, with Lehigh Valley managing just 2 hits, Scott Mathieson (2-2, 3.00) started and allowed Syracuse 4 runs on 8 hits over 5 innings. In the nightcap, the IronPigs got 6 hits, 1 a double by Freddy Galvis (.313). Andrew Carpenter (1.79) threw 2 scoreless innings of relief............In Akron, Reading dropped a 6-4 decision to the Aeros. Tuffy Gosewisch (.258) had 2 hits for Reading, and Derrick Mitchell drove in 3 runs, to take over the team lead with 76, 1 ahead of Matt Rizzotti.........In Clearwater, Jonathan Pettibone (10-10, 2.94) threw a great game for the Threshers, going 6 innings, allowing 2 runs, 1 earned, on just 2 hits and 1 walk, as the Threshers pounded Lakeland, 9-3. Brandon Tripp (.354) had 3 hits to lead the shark attack, and Darin Ruf drove in his 80th run of the season. The win is the 5th in a row for the Threshers and they now trail Dunedin by just 1.5 games. Don't forget the 2 teams play each other the final 4 game series of the season!!

In Sacramento, Kyle Drabek's season of frustration continues to deteriorate. Kyle (4-4, 7.41 in AAA) made the start for Las Vegas and was battered to the tune of 9 runs on 8 hits and 4 walks in just 3 innings of work in the River Cats' 13-1 win over the 51s. It is hard to believe this is the same guy who won 4 games for Toronto this past spring. Michael Taylor had a hit, an RBI and scored a run for the Cats.

Hamels returns strong

2011-08-30T07:52:00.003-04:00

Monday in Cincinnati, Cole Hamels came off the DL and threw 6 fine innings against the Reds in the Phillies' 3-2 win. Cole allowed just 1 run on only 2 hits, striking out 7 for no decision. The win went to Antonio Bastardo (6-0, 1.42) who struck out 3 of the 4 hitters he faced in his inning. Mike Stutes also pitched , allowing a run on 3 hits in his inning, notching his 8th hold.

In Baltimore, the Yankees beat Alfredo Simon and the Orioles, also by a 3-2 margin. Simon (4-7, 4.26) pitched well, going 7 innings and giving up 3 runs on 4 hits and 2 walks, striking out 6. If he could have 1 pitch back, it would be the 2-run home run by Nick Swisher in the 4th frame.

The win by Bastardo was the 78th for the HomeSide.

Cardenas, Singleton stay hot

2011-08-29T08:11:00.002-04:00

In Nashville, Zack Segovia threw 2 scoreless innings to finish up the Sounds' 7-5 loss to Memphis. Zack (4.04) allowed 1 hit and 1 walk.............In Fresno, Adrian Cardenas (.312) had 3 hits, including a double and scored a run for Sacramento in the River Cats' 6-4 win over the Grizzlies. Michael Taylor (.278) added a hit, his 14th stolen base and also scored a run for the Cats..............In Corpus Christi, the San Antonio Missions romped over the Hooks, 13-1. The lone run for the Hooks came on Jonathan Villar's home run in the 8th inning. It was the 14th home run of the year for Villar, and the 10th since his promotion. Josh Zeid continues to struggle to adjust to the Texas League, allowing 2 runs on 2 dingers in 2 innings, his ERA ballooning to 9.49 since joining the Astros............In Lake Elsinore, Jonathan Singleton continues to rake, belting 2 more hits, driving in a run and scoring 2 as the Lancaster JetHawks beat the Storm, 9-4. Singleton is hitting .343 since his trade, and an impressive .299 with 60 RBI overall with Clearwater and Lancaster........In Clearwater, Darin Ruf (.316) hit his 17th home run and the Threshers took a 4-3, 10-inning win from Lakeland. That is 4 wins in a row for Clearwater (33-28 in the second half, 72-58 overall) who still trail Dunedin by 2.5 games

Gavin in a groove

2011-08-29T07:51:00.003-04:00

Sunday in Seattle, Gavin Floyd dominated the Mariners for 7 shut out innings, before tiring in the 8th as the White Sox won 9-3. In all Floyd (12-10, 4.36) went 7.1 innings, allowing 2 runs on 5 hits, NO walks(1 plunk), and struck out 6 as the Sox gained a game on the first place Tigers. The Cleveland Indians are falling out of it, losing to Kansas City 2-1. Jason Donald (.283 since recall) was 1 for 3 in that game. The Sox are 6 games behind Detroit, and the Tribe is 6.5 games back.

The win for Floyd was #77 for the HomeSide.

good night, Irene

2011-08-28T09:52:00.003-04:00

As Irene pounded the east coast and forced cancellations galore, there was some baseball Saturday.........

In Boston Saturday, the A's and Red Sox dodged the hurricane and managed to play 2 games, with the Sox winning both. Josh Outman pitched 4 innings in relief after a rain delay in the second game, and allowed just 1 UNearned run on 3 hits and 1 walk, striking out 7 of his 12 outs in Boston's 4-0 win..............In Cleveland, Jason Donald (.280) had 3 hits and scored a run as the Indians scored an 8-7, come from behind win over the Royals.

In Louisville, Domonic Brown (.278) had 4 hits as Lehigh Valley took a 5-4 win from the Bats. Mike Zagurski (4-0, 2.90) was the winning pitcher and Justin DeFratus struck out the side in the 9th inning to get his 6th save. The IronPigs (76-60) trail Pawtucket by 1 game with 8 games left and will send Scott Mathieson to the mound today against Syracuse. The Cheifs beat Andy Baldwin and the Red Wings behind Steven Strasburg, 4-3. Baldwin (6-13, 5.64) went 6 good innings, allowing 2 runs on 4 hits and 1 walk, striking out 6. Strasburg struck out 7 in 5 innings, giving the Red Wings 1 run on 2 hits.

In Reading, the R-Phils and Portland split a doubleheader, Reading taking the first game, 6-2 and the Sea Dogs coming back for a 4-2 win in the late game. Red hot Mike Spidale (.330) was 6 for 7 on the day, and is 15 for his last 28 (that's .536) in the last 7 games. Derrick Mitchell (.262) had 3 hits and 4 RBI (73) on the day. J.C. Ramirez won his 10th game, and B.J. Rosenberg recorded his 1st save of the year. Reading stays a half game behind New Britain for the last spot in the Eastern League playoffs.

In Clearwater, the Threshers exploded for 14 runs on 23 hits for an easy 14-5 win over Lakeland. Cyle Hankerd had 4 hits, including 2 home runs, and drove in 5 runs, and Alan Schoenberger, Torre Langley and Darin Ruf (.316, 2 doubles, RBI # 73) added 3 hits apiece to back David Buchanan, who won his 3rd game for Clearwater, and is 14-6 overall this year. The Threshers have now won 3 in a row and pull to within 2.5 games of fist place Dunedin.

In Fresno, Michael Taylor (.280) hit 2 home run (15) and drove in 3 runs (60) for Sacramento, helping the River Cats beat the Grizzlies, 5-4................Jason Jaramillo (.278) is off the DL, and had a hit and a walk for Indianapolis, but the Indians lost in Columbus, 4-3................In Colorado Springs, Jesus Merchan (.294) had a hit, scored a run and drove in 2 more to help the Sky Sox beat Tacoma, 8-5...............In Manchester, the Harrisburg Senators edged the Fisher Cats, 2-1. Anthony Gose (.254) had a double, a walk, stole base #65, and scored the lone run for the Cats, who have lost 4 in a row and have let both New Britain and Reading back in the hunt.................In Lake Elsinore, the Storm beat the Lancaster JetHawks, 1-0. Jonathan Singleton (.337 since trade) had 2 of Lancaster's 5 hits on the day.......Domingo Santana had a single, a double, and 2 RBI for Lexington in the Legends' 11-3 win in West Virginia.

season winding down.....

2011-08-27T11:01:00.002-04:00

In Louisville, the Bats beat the IronPigs, 7-4. Freddy Galvis had 2 more hits for Lehigh Valley and is up to .330 since his promotion from Reading. The book on Galvis is he is major league ready defensively, and if he can hit, he will be a major leaguer. Freddy, who won't be 22 until after the season, has had a break out season at the plate, hitting .282 overall in 128 games with Reading and Lehigh Valley.

In Reading, the R-Phils wasted a good effort from Tyler Cloyd, who went 7 solid innings, and gave up just 2 runs on 9 hits, NO walks, striking out 7, but Portland rallied for 2 in the 9th for a devastating 4-3 Sea Dogs win. Mike Spidale (.321) had 2 more hits and a walk for reading, who are now tied with New Britain for the final playoff spot, 3.5 games behind New Hampshire. The Fisher Cats dropped both ends of a doubleheader against Harrisburg, including being no-hit in the opener. In the nightcap, Anthony Gose hit his 15th home run of the year, and Bobby Korecky (3-3, 2.70) was the losing pitcher.

In Clearwater, Darin Ruf (.313) belted a double, his 16th home run (77 RBI) and walked twice as the Threshers came from behind for an 8-6 win over Lakeland. Jiwan James (2 singles, walk, 2 steals (27), RBI, 2 runs), Troy Hanzawa and Cesar Hernandez also had 2 hits for Clearwater.

In Colorado Springs, Jesus Merchan (.294) had 2 hits and a walk, and scored a run for the Sky Sox, who lost to Tacoma, 12-10............In Montgomery, Quintin Berry (.302) had 3 walks and scored 2 runs for the Mudcats, who lost to the Biscuits 12-9.................In Jackson, Darren Byrd struck out 3 of the 5 hitters he faced, recorded the final 5 outs of the Stars' 10-2 loss to the Generals.............In Midland, the Rockhounds took a pair from Corpus Christi, 2-1, and 3-2. Jonathan Villar was 2 for 6 on the day, and Josh Zeid threw 2 innings in the second game, allowing 2 runs, 1 earned on 1 hit and 1 walk.

recalls begin

2011-08-27T10:47:00.002-04:00

In the last few days, the Astros have recalled Jay Happ and the Athletics have recalled Josh Outman from AAA. Happ started against the Giants in San Francisco last night and threw 6 solid innings, allowing 2 run, just 1 earned on only 4 hits, but he still walked 4. The Giants won the game, 2-1, and Happ slipped to 4-15 on the season.

In Philadelphia, Ryan Howard belted his 27th home run, a 3-run shot (99 RBI), but the Phillies dropped a 6-5 decision to the Marlins. Carlos Ruiz' (.271) hitting streak was stopped, and Mike Stutes (3.67) struck out 3 of the 4 hitters he faced, throwing a scoreless inning of relief.........In Cleveland, Lou Marson had 2 walks, and threw out a runner at third base in the Indians' 2-1 win over Kansas City..........In New York, Chris Capuano struck out Michael Bourn 4 times, in his complete game, 2-hit shut out of the Braves............

J-Rod wins 16th

2011-08-26T11:48:00.003-04:00

Before I get to Thursday's games, I failed to mention Jarred Cosart yesterday. Jarred pitched 6 strong innings for Corpus Christi, and gave up just 1 run on 4 hits and 3 walks. He received no decision in the Hooks' 3-2 loss to the home standing Midland Rockhounds. Cosart is 0-1 in 5 starts for the Hooks, with a nice 2.96 ERA since the trade. It was also a promotion, so he is experiencing that adjustment at the same time. He was the opening night starter for the Threshers, and won 9 games for Clearwater.

In Salisbury Thursday night, Zack Collier had 4 hits to lead the BlueClaws to a 9-4 win over the Shorebirds, completing a 4-game sweep and extending the current winning streak to 5 (9-1 in last 10). Anthony Hewitt had 2 hits, including his 14th home run, and 2 walks, and drove in 3 runs as the Claws find themselves 1 game behind Hickory, and 2 games in back of Kannapolis with 10 to play. Tonight, weather permitting, the Crawdads and BlueClaws will start a 5-game series in Lakewood. Lendy Castillo (4-2) will make the start for Lakewood, stepping in for Garrett Claypool, who was placed on the DL.

In Clearwater, Julio Rodriguez won his 16th game of the year, throwing 7 shut out innings against Brevard County in a 2-0 Threshers' victory. "J-Rod" allowed just 2 hits and 1 walk, striking out 8. Juan Sosa threw a 1-2-3 8th inning, striking out 2 and recording his 3rd hold with Clearwater since being promoted. Cesar Hernandez was 3 for 3 and scored both runs for the Threshers, who trail first place Dunedin by 3.5 games.

In Reading, the Portland Sea Dogs defeated the Phillies, 8-4. Tyson Brummett (3-8, 4.69) started and made it through 5 innings, giving up 5 runs on 9 hits and a walk, striking out 6. Chris Kissock (5.42) gave up 2 runs in his 2 innings, and Jacob Diekman (2.90) threw a scoreless 9th. Tim Kennelly led the attack with 3 hits, while Tuffy Gosewisch (2 doubles, 2 RBI) and Matt Rizzotti (.291) added 2 hit each. The loss, combined with New Britain's 11-8 win in Trenton, moves the Rock Cats to within a game of Reading for the final spot in the playoffs.

In Louisville, Matt Maloney was good enough to beat his former team, as the Bats took a 6-5 decision from the IronPigs. Maloney (6-1, 3.19) went 6 innings for the Bats, allowing 4 runs (3 earned) on 10 hits, NO walks and 4 strike outs. Could he have another shot at the Reds' rotation come September?

In Lexington, Domingo Santana hit his 4th home run with the Legends, a 2-run shot in the bottom of the 8th to tie their game at 3-3. The Legends won in 10 innings. Santana has hit all 4 home runs in the last 6 games, and is hitting .361 since joining Lexington............In Zebulon, Quintin Berry's hitting streak was ended by his manager. Not only did he not start Berry with a 15-game hitting streak going, he used him as a pinch hitter in the 7th inning. "Q" walked, and the hitting streak is history! O yea, the Mudcats lost 5-3, to Jacksonville............In Huntsville, Jesus Sanchez' difficult season continued for the Stars. Jesus started against Birmingham and allowed 4 runs on 7 hits over 6 innings. He walked 3 and struck out 3 and is 3-7, 4.91 this year for the Stars...............In Manchester, Anthony Gose had 2 hits and 3 stolen bases (64), and Kevin Howard (.318) added 2 hits and drove in a run, but the Fisher Cats lost to Harrisburg, 6-4 in 10 innings.................In New Orleans, Robinson Tejeda pitched 2 innings for Omaha, and gave up 2 runs without allowing a hit. Robinson walked 2 hitters, and was charged with the 2 runs in the Zephyrs' 8-2 win over the Storm Chasers. Then, in Nashville, Zack Segovia gave up 2 runs on just 1 hit (2 walks) in 1 inning as Nashville lost to Memphis, 9-6...........In Colorado Springs, Jesus Merchan (.291) had 3 hits and drove in 2 runs for the Sky Sox in their 11-7 win over Tacoma.

Chooch gets 2 more!

2011-08-25T12:49:00.002-04:00

In Philadelphia, Kyle Kendrick allowed 6 runs (just 2 earned) on 7 hits and 1 walk, in just 4 innings of work in the Phillies' 7-4 loss to the Mets. Antonio Bastardo (1.45) had another scoreless inning, even walking 2 hitters. Carlos Ruiz (.275) had another 2-hit game, making it 5 straight with 2 hits, and is getting hot at the right time! Mike Schwimer allowed a run on 2 walks and a hit in his inning.........In Cleveland, Jason Donald had 2 hits for the Indians, who took a 9-2 beating from the Mariners.

The Houston Astros have placed Sergio Escalona on the 15-day DL, retroactive to August 22, with left elbow tendinitis .

Jesse Biddle won his 7th game of the year for Lakewood, throwing 5 1-hit innings for the BlueClaws in their 5-1 win over the Shorebirds. Hector Neris followed Biddle with 3 innings on no-hit (1 walk) baseball himself!! Carlos Alonso (.322) had a double and a 2-run home run, Anthony Hewitt added 2 hits and an RBI, and Jim Murphy drove in his team-leading 76th run. The BlueClaws (32-26 in the second half) have won 4 in a row, and 8 of 10, but are still 3 games behind Kannapolis with 11 to play.

In Clearwater, Jonathan Pettibone was great again (7 IP, 1 run, 3 hits, NO walks, 5KS), but the Threshers came up short in a 2-1 loss to Brevard County. With Dunedin winning again, Clearwater is 4 games back with 14 to play.

In New Britain, Mike Spidale (.321) and Matt Rizzotti (.290) had 2 hits each, as Reading defeated the Rock Cats, 4-2. Mike Cisco (8-0, 1.63) picked up the win in relief, with 3.1 innings of no-hit ball (2 walks). Chris Kissock recorded the final 2 outs for his first save. Reading (67-63) now leads New Britain by 2 games for the final playoff spot. The R-Phils have won 7 of 10, and trail first place New Hampshire by 4 games. The Fisher Cats bombed Trenton 16-3 last night. Anthony Gose (.253) had 2 singles, a triple, a walk, stole a base (#61), scored 2 runs and drove in 2. Travis d'Arnaud (.321) added 2 hits, including his 19th home run of the year, scoring 2 runs and driving in 2 (71). It is shaping up as a tasty playoff series , and I hope we get it!!

In Louisville, Freddy Galvis (.325) had 3 hits, including a double, and scored a run for the IronPigs in their 6-5 win over the Bats. Domonic Brown added an RBI double to the cause, and Justin DeFratus picked up his 5th save, throwing a 1-2-3 9th inning (2 Ks).

In Zebulon, Quintin Berry (.304) extended his hitting streak to 15 games on Wednesday, with a hit and a walk, and scored a run in the Mudcats' 2-1 win over Jacksonville..................In Salt Lake City, Kyle Drabek looked a little better, throwing 6.2 innings for Las Vegas, and allowing just 1 run. He did give up 8 hits and 3 walks, but seemed to make the big pitch when he needed to. For Kyle, it was his 4th win for the 51s, and it lowers his AAA ERA to 6.51................In Fresno, Adrian Cardenas (.315) had 2 hits, stole a base (#10) and scored 2 runs for Sacramento, but the River Cats were beat by the Grizzlies, 14-6.

Worley & Simon excellent

2011-08-24T07:50:00.002-04:00

Vance Worley won his 9th game of the season in Philadelphia Tuesday, defeating the Mets, 9-4. Worley went 7 strong innings, and after working of of serious trouble in each of the first 2 frames, settled down to allow just 1 run on 5 hits and a walk. Vance (9-1, 2.65) struck out 9 Mets, and if it were not for Atlanta's Craig Kimbrel, would have be in the running for rookie of the year. Mike Stutes (3.75) threw the final 2 innings, and gave up 3 runs on 4 hits including a home to Lucas Duda. John Mayberry hit his 12th home run, his 2nd in 2 night, and Ben Francisco added 3 hits for the Phillies.

Even better than Vance, Alfredo Simon threw 8 strong innings in Minnesota, leading the Orioles to an 8-1 win over the Twins. Simon (4-6, 4.30) allowed just 1 run on 3 hits and 1 walk, and struck out 8 for Baltimore.

The 2 wins make a total of 76 for the HomeSide.

In Cleveland, the Indians and Mainers split a doubleheader. The Indians scored 3 in the 9th to take the open, 7-5, but the Mariners came back for a 12-7 win in the nightcap. Both Jason Donald and Lou Marson drove in a run in the second game for Cleveland........In Chicago, Michael Bourn (.302) had a hit and stole 2 more bases to increase his major league leading total to 47, as the Braves edged the Cubs, 5-4.

Marson's 3 hits not enough for Tribe

2011-08-23T07:55:00.004-04:00

In Cleveland, Lou Marson had 3 hits and drove in a run for the Indians, but the Mariners topped Cleveland, 3-2. The Indians have now lost 4 in a row, and are 5.5 games behind the surging Tigers.............In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.302) was 1 for 4 as the Braves shut out the Cubs, 3-0 behind Jair Jurrjens, solidifying their hold on the wild card lead.............In Philadelphia, Carlos Ruiz (.273) had his 3rd consecutive 2-hit game, driving in 2 runs in the Phillies' 10-0 beating of the Mets. Cliff Lee won his 14th game, and John Mayberry and Hunter Pence homered.

In Salisbury, the BlueClaws defeated the Shorebirds, 4-2. Carlos Alonoso (.327, double RBI) , Zack Collier ( single, double, walk, 2 RBI, stole home!) and Anthony Hewitt (2 stolen bases for team leading 34) had 2 hits each for Lakewood. Lisalberto Bonilla went 6 solid innings, allowing just 1 run on 6 hits and 1 walk to improve to 4-4, 2.83 on the season. Lendy Castillo surrendered an UNearned run on 1 hit in 2 innings, and Ryan Duke and Jay Johnson finished it off. The BlueClaws are now 30-26 in the second half, 4 games behind Kannapolis, with 13 games left.

In New Britain, Reading won their 5th straight game, 7-3 over the Rock Cats. The R-Phils scored 4 in the top of the 1st and never looked back. Tuffy Gosewisch (.261, single, double, RBI), Mike Spidale (.317), Matt Rizzotti (single, double, RBI # 72), and Brent Clevlen all had 2 hits for Reading, who have pulled tho within 3 game of first place New Hampshire, who dropped their 4th game in a row. Anthony Gose hit his 14th home run for the Fisher Cats, who were 4-3 losers at home to Trenton. Trenton trails Reading by 1.5 games for the final playoff spot.

In Lexington, Domingo Santana hit his 9th home run of the year, a 2-run shot, in the Legends' 5-4 loss to Asheville..............In Zebulon, Quintin Berry (.301) extended his hitting streak to 13 games in a row with a hit and an RBI for Carolina, but the Mudcats lost to the Suns, 8-4...........In Huntsville, the Stars were edged out 3-2 by the Barons. Darren Byrd (3.30) threw 3 solid innings in relief, allowing just 1 hit and striking out 3 for Huntsville.............In Colorado Springs, Jesus Merchan did not start for the SkySox, but came on later, and had a walk and scored a run in the 3-run 10th inning rally to give the Sox a 9-7 win over Salt Lake...............In Tucson, Josh Outman won his 8th game for Sacramento with 5 good inning, allowing just 1 earned run (4 overall) on 6 hits and 1 walk, striking out 7 in the River Cats' 11-9 win over the Padres. Adrian Cardenas (.313) had a single, a double, drove in a run and scored 2 more, and Michael Taylor added a hit, a walk, a stole base, and an RBI for Sacramento.

some Sunday notes

2011-08-22T11:25:00.002-04:00

Quintin Berry (.302) extended his hitting streak to 12 games, picking up 2 of the Mudcats' 5 hits on the day. "Q" was the difference, or as I like to call him "The Catalyst". On base 3 different times, he stole 4 bases (38) and scored the only 2 runs in a 2-0 Carolina win over Jacksonville.

In Iowa City, Jay Happ threw 7 1-hit innings for the Oklahoma City RedHawks to record to 4-0 victory. Jay walked 3 and struck out 6, and has walked 3 in each of his 3 starts with Oklahoma City.

In Tucson, Michael Taylor (.277) had a single, a double, scored a run and drove in another, and Adrian Cardenas (.312) had a hit and a walk, scored a run and drove in 2 for Sacramento in the River Cat's 11-6 win over the Padres.

Cloyd fans 10 as R-Phils sweep

2011-08-22T11:11:00.003-04:00

Tyler Cloyd struck out 10 hitters in 7 shut out innings for the Reading Phillies on Sunday, and the R-Phils won a game in which they got just 3 hits, 3-1 over Altoona. Cloyd (5-3, 2.90 for Reading) is coming into his own with Reading, handling the mid-season promotion from Clearwater to rise to the challenge. He allowed just 4 hits and 1 walk on Sunday, and got full value for his team's 3 hits. Home runs by Carlos Rivero (#15) and Brent Clevlen (his 4th in 17 games with the team) accounted for all the runs.

Reading is now 65-62, 1 game ahead of New Britain, who just took 3 in a row from first place New Hampshire. The Phillies are in New Britain for a huge 3-game set starting Monday night.

13 wins for Buchanan

2011-08-22T10:56:00.003-04:00

David Buchanan tossed 6 strong innings, winning his 2nd game for the Threshers as Clearwater defeated the Flying Tigers, 7-1 in Lakeland Sunday. Buchanan (2-1 for Clearwater, 13-6 overall) allowed just 1 run on 7 hits and 1 walk, striking out five in the process. David has been very good all year, walking just 38 hitters in over 148 innings pitched. Eric Pettis, Andy Loomis and Juan Sosa each threw a shut out inning. Red hot Brandon Tripp (.340) had 3 more hits, including 2 doubles and 2 RBI. (He is just too good for that league-move 'em up!). Cyle Hankerd and Cesar Hernandez also had 3 hits each.

The Threshers are in 3rd place, trailing fist place Dunedin by 3.5, and 2nd place Tampa by 2 games, with 14 games to play. Clearwater plays Dunedin in the final 4 games.

Floyd shut down Rangers; Schwimer debuts

2011-08-22T07:21:00.002-04:00

In Chicago, Gavin Floyd threw 7 shut out innings against Rangers, holding that heavy hitting line-up to a mere 3 hits, walking 1 and striking out 6 en route to his 11th win of the year in the Sox' 10-0 victory. Chicago is now 5 games behind front running Detroit, who completed the sweep of the Indians with an 8-7 win in the Motor City. In that game, Jason Donald had 2 hits and scored a run, and Lou Marson had a hit and a walk, and also scored for the Tribe. The sweep leaves Cleveland 4.5 games out of first, as the race heats up for the final 5 weeks of the season.

In Atlanta, the Braves topped the Diamondbacks, 1-0. Michael Bourn (.303) had 1 hits in 4 at bats and was thrown out trying to steal home. In Houston, Sergio Escalona (3.00) recorded 2 outs, and allowed 1 hit in the Astros' 11-inning 6-4 loss to the Giants.

In Washington, the Nationals took 2 of 3 from the Phillies with a 5-4 win in 10 innings. Carlos Ruiz (.270) hit his 5th home run, 1 of 2 hits for him on the day, scoring 2 runs and driving in 2. Mike Schwimer made his debut, coming on for Roy Halladay after a long delay, and threw 3 innings, allowing 1 run on 2 hits, NO walks, striking out 4. Antonio Bastardo (1.48) threw the 9th inning and allowed a 2-out game tying home run to Ian Desmond.

The win by Gavin Floyd was the 74th for the HomeSide.

Oswalt shines

2011-08-21T09:48:00.002-04:00

In Washington, Carlos Ruiz (.267) had 2 hits and a walk, and scored 2 runs to back fine pitching from Roy Oswalt, and the Phillies beat the Nationals, 5-0. Mike Stutes (3.33) threw a 1-2-3 9th inning to finish it off............In Houston, the Astros made it 4 wins in a row with a 7-5 victory over the Giants. Sergio Escalona (3.08) recorded 5 outs, 3 with strike outs, but did give up a run on a home run by San Francisco's Aubrey Huff....................In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.304) had 2 more hits and scored twice for the Braves in their 8-1 thrashing of the Diamondbacks.

CARDENAS, MALONEY STILL SMOKIN'

In Tucson Saturday night, Adrian Cardenas (.312) had 4 hits, including a double, a walk, scored a run and drove in 3 more to lead the Sacramento River Cats to a 9-5 win over the Padres. Adrian is 12 for his last 21 (.571) and is hitting .455 over the last 10. Can you say "September Call-up"?
Michael Taylor (.275) added 2 hits, 2 runs and 2 RBI for the Cats.................In Toledo, Matt Maloney was his old awesome self, throwing 7 shut out innings for Louisville, improving to 5-1, 3.07 with the Bats. Matt scattered 8 hits and 1 walk, in the 12-1 victory for Louisville, finding himself since being reassigned.

In Lakeland, the Flying Tigers topped the Threshers, 7-3. Brody Colvin (2-8, 5.02) struggled again, giving up 7 runs on 10 hits and 1 walk, striking out 2 in just 5 innings of work. Ebelin Lugo (2 IP, 2 hits 1 walk, 2 Ks) and Chance Chapman (1-2-3) tossed scoreless relief. Jiwan James (.271) and Brandon Tripp (.326) had 2 hits each for Clearwater, who slip 3.5 games behind Dunedin.

In Reading, the R-Phils scored 4 in the bottom of the 9th inning off Mike Dubee (2-6, 3.27) to steal a 7-6 win over Altoona, and take sole possession of the final playoff spot! Steve Singleton (.300) had 3 hits, including 2 doubles, and Matt Rizzoti (.287) and Tuffy Gosewisch (.261) added 2 hits each. BJ Rosenberg (4.59) and Chris Kissock (5.20) gave up 3 runs each, but Jacob Diekman (3.05) tossed 2 scoreless innings, setting up the game winning rally.

The IronPigs have got a piece of first place, thanks to a 3-1 win in Indianapolis. Great pitching from Nate Bump (5 IP, 4 hits, 1 UNearned run, NO walks), Joe Savery (2 IP, 2 hits, 2 KS) and Justin DeFratus (2 IP, 2 hits, 3 KS, 3rd SAVE).

In Stockton, Jonathan Singleton hit his 4th home run since being traded (#13 overall) to help the JetHawks to a 3-0 win over the Ports.................In Springdale, Edgar Garcia (2.96) recorded his 4th save of the year for the Naturals, throwing 3 scoreless innings in Northwest Arkansas' 6-3 win over Midland...............In a wild one in Chattanooga, the Lookouts outscored the Mudcats, 15-14. Quintin Berry (.299) had 2 more hits, drove in a run and scored a run for Carolina, and now has an 11-game hitting streak active!...............In Pearl, the Braves defeated the Stars, 3-1. Jesus Sanchez (3-6, 4.84) was the starter for Huntsville, throwing 5.1 innings, and giving up 3 runs on 8 hits and 1 walk, taking the loss. Darren Byrd (3.48) relieved him, getting 2 outs, but allowing an inherited runner to score................In Omaha, Robinson Tejeda (3.55) made his first appearance in 8 days, throwing 3 pitches and getting 1 out for the Storm Chasers in their 4-1 loss to Nashville. Omaha has a 5 game lead in the division and appears playoff bound!..................The trade of Jesus Merchan to the Rockies has worked out nicely for him. Playing everyday since he got there, Merchan is hitting .385 for the Sky Sox in 13 games, raising his season number to .291. He had a double and a walk in the Sox' 5-4, 10-inning win over Salt Lake............In Rochester, the Yankees defeated the Red Wings, 6-4. Greg Golson (.267) seems to be coming around, picking up 2 hits in the game.

In New Britain, the Rock Cats took a 5-4 squeaker from the Fisher Cats. The Rock Cats are 1 game behind Reading in the race for the final playoff spot. Kevin Howard (.323) had 2 hits and scored a run for New Hampshire. (It appears the Blue Jays have assigned Howard to the Fisher Cats to help them make their playoff run, but in my opinion, the veteran is clearly a "ringer" on the AA roster, and should be back in AAA. Maybe he has agreed to this in exchange for a September call-up after the Eastern League Playoffs.)

Phillies fall in 9th

2011-08-20T09:23:00.002-04:00

Friday night in Washington, the Nats shocked the Phillies with 6 in the 9th to take an 8-4 win. Ryan Howard (.256) had a single and a walk, scored a run and drove in #96, and Carlos Ruiz (.263) had a single and a double and drove in a run. Kyle Kendrick pitched the first 6 innings after a 2-hour delay knocked Roy Oswalt from the start. Kendrick (3.24) allowed just 2 runs on 5 hitys and a walk, and left the game with a 4-2 lead. Antonio Bastardo (1.32) threw another 1-2-3 frame, picking up his 14th hold..........In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.303) led off the game with his 2nd home run, 1 of his 2 hits on the night, giving the Braves a lead they never gave up in Atlanta's 4-2 win over the Diamondbacks.

COSART BRILLIANT, BUT STILL WINLESS

Jarred Cosart threw 6 1-hit innings of shut out ball, walking 2 and striking out 5 for Corpus Christi in the Hooks' 4-1, 12-inning loss to Arkansas. Cosart has been fantastic since being traded, throwing 4 times for the Astros' affiliate, 3 of those being brilliant. He has yet to pick up a victory. Josh Zeid (7.88) has not enjoyed the same success. Josh recorded the final 2 outs in the game, allowing a run on a hit and 2 walks. Jonathan Villar (.227) was 0 for 6 on the day for the Hooks.............In Hickory, Domingo Santana hit his 8th home run of the season, and his first with the Legends, as Lexington won the second game of a doubleheader with the Crawdads, 4-2. Domingo had 3 hits and 2 RBI on the night, and is hitting .375 in 4 games since joining the Legends earlier this week..........In Lakeland, Jeremy Barnes hit his 9th home run of the year in the 11th inning to give the Threshers a 1-0 victory over the Flying Tigers. Julio Rodriguez dropped his ERA to 2.99 with 7 shut out innings, scattering 6 hits and striking out 9 in the process. Colby Shreve (1.50) struck out 4 in his 3 scoreless frames to pick up the win, his first since his promotion. Clearwater stays 2.5 games behind front-running Dunedin.

HYATT WINS #11

In Reading, Mike Spidale (.321, 3 runs), Steve Singleton (.292, 2 doubles, 2 runs, 2 RBI) and Derrick Mitchell (.272, 3 doubles, RBI, run scored) all had 3 hits for Reading. Tuffy Gosewisch belted his 13th home run, and Matt Rizzotti drove in 2 runs to take his team leading total to 71 in Reading's 11-1 win over visiting Altoona. Austin Hyatt (11-6, 3.94) was great, allowing just 2 hits and 1 UNearned run in his 6 innings, walking 2 and striking out 6 before giving the ball to Mike Cisco, who finished the game. Cisco earned his 3rd save with 3 shut out frames, just 1 hit and 1 walk allowed.

In Rochester, Freddy Galvis (.317) had 2 more hits and scored a run for the IronPigs, in Lehigh Valley's 8-5 loss to the Red Wings. Andrew Carpenter tossed 2 shut out innings and Mike Zagurski added another for the Pigs.

In Chattanooga, Quintin Berry (.298) extended his hitting streak to 10 games with 2 more hits for the Mudcats. Berry also had a walk, scored 2 runs and stole his 34th base of the year, but the Mudcats lost to the Lookouts, 6-5. Will Savage (12-4, 3.63) started for the Lookouts, and lasted 5 innings, allowing 3 runs on 3 hits and 3 walks, and picking up no decision.

In Sacramento, Adrian Cardenas (.306) had 3 more hits for the River Cats, scoring 2 runs and stealing his 6th base of the year, helping the Cats to a 7-0 win over the Isotopes.

In New Orleans, Jesus Merchan came back with the Colorado Springs Sky Sox and had a hit against his former team. Jesus was traded from the Zephyrs on August 6, and has caught on with the Sox, hitting .395 in 12 games since moving over.

Kyle Drabek's season to deteriorate. Kyle made it just 3.1 innings in Memphis Friday, allowing 6 runs on 5 hits and 6 walks, falling to 3-3 with a 7.10 ERA since reporting to Las Vegas. Maybe the Blue Jays rushed him a bit. DUH!!

playoff race update

2011-08-18T12:02:00.002-04:00

This morning finds New Britian, Trenton, and Reading all tied at 61-62. Only 1 of these 3 will make the playoffs.

The IronPigs are 71-55, and trail Pawtucket by 1 game for the division title. They have a 2.5 game advantage over Gwinnett in the wild card race.

Wednesday's winners and losers

2011-08-18T07:48:00.003-04:00

In Philadelphia Wednesday, the Phillies blasted the Diamondbacks, 9-2 with 7 late runs. Ryan Howard (.255) had a hit and scored a run and Antonio Bastardo (1.38) threw another 1-2-3 inning, using just 7 pitches! John Mayberry had 3 hits to pace the attack.

In Chicago, Fausto Carmona pitched the Indians to a 4-1 win over the White Sox, Lou Marson had a walk and scored a run for the Tribe......In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.301) had a hit and scored twice for the Braves, but the Giants came out on top in that one, 7-5.......In Houston, Sergio Escalona (2.92) used just 1 pitch to retire his 1 hitter, picking up his 5th hold in the Astros' 4-3 win over the Cubs.

Tuesday night in Hagerstown, Domingo Sanatana had a hit and a walk in his debut for the Lexington Legends in the Lexington's 10-2 loss to the Suns. Domingo did not play on Wednesday......In Lancaster, Jonathan Singleton had a hit and drove in 2 runs for the JethHawks in their 7-3 loss to Modesto. Singleton now has 55 RBI on the year, 8 since the trade...........In Corpus Christi, Jonathan Villar had a walk, stole a base, and scored a run, and Josh Zeid threw a 1-2-3 9th inning in the Hooks' 7-1 win over the Travelers..................In Chattanooga, Quintin Berry (.293) had a double and walk, scoring a run and driving in another for the Mudcats in the Lookouts' 7-6 win. The hit extend's Berry's hitting streak to 8 games in a row............In Altoona, the Curve and the Fisher Cats split a doubleheader. In the opener, a 5-4 win for the Curve, Travis d'Arnaud (.323) had 2 hits and 2 RBI, including his team best 18th home run, Anthony Gose had a hit and a walk, stole 2 more bases (that's 54) and scored 2 runs, and Kevin Howard
picked up a hit and a walk, and drove in 2 runs. d'Arnaud had another hit and 2 more RBI (65) in the nightcap, a 6-3, come-from-behind win for the Cats.......In Scranton, Greg Golson (.266) hit his 7th home run of the year, but the Yankees lost to Durham, 3-2.

The streaky Lakewood BlueClaws won their third straight over Delmarva Wednesday, and are still clinging to playoff hopes. The Claws are 27-25 , and just 3.5 games behind Kannapolis. They open a 4-game set with Greensboro tonight, looking for some revenge after the Grasshoppers swept them 4 in a row last week in North Carolina.

In Clearwater, Dunedin beat the Threshers and Trevor May (9-7), 10-2. Clearwater managed just 3 hits in the game, losing their 5th straight. The Threshers, like the BlueClaws, find themselves 3.5 games out of first with the season dwindling away.

In Reading the Portland Sea Dogs took both games from the Phillies, 5-4 and 5-3. Matt Rizzotti (.285) had 2 hits in the opener, Mike Spidale (.321) had 3 hits in the second game, and Carlos Rivero homered in each contest.

In Allentown, the IronPigs defeated Andy Baldwin and the Rochester Red Wings, 3-2. Baldwin (6-11, 5.49) went 6 innings, allowing 3 runs on 7 hits and 1 walk, striking out 10 along the way. Joe Savery got the last 5 outs for Lehigh Valley, picking up his 1st save.

Schwimer to the bigs

2011-08-17T07:54:00.005-04:00

The first thing I notice this morning is Michael Schwimer has been called up to the Phillies. Schwimer was selected by the Phillies in the 2008 draft, and was promoted from Williamsport directly to Clearwater in 2009, skipping Lakewood. This year, he is 9-1 with the IronPigs, with 10 saves and a stellar 1.88 ERA in 46 games for Lehigh Valley. Good luck, Michael!!

The Diamondbacks scored 2 in the 9th inning in Philadelphia last night to defeat Roy Halladay (15-5) and the Phillies, 3-2. Carlos Ruiz had a hit and a walk, and Ryan Howard had just a walk in 4 plate appearances. Chase Utley had 3 hits and Halladay had 2............In Atlanta, the Braves beat the Giants, 2-1 in 11 innings. Michael Bourn (.302) had 3 walks, and an RBI single for the Braves.............In Houston, Sergio Escalona (2.96) retired 2 of the 3 hitters he faced, allowing a single but no runs, and the Astros scored 4 in the bottom of the 9th inning to shock to Cubs, 6-5.........In a wild one in Chicago, the White Sox beat the Indians, 8-7 in 14 innings. Gavin Floyd was the starter for the Sox, and got hit around. Gavin went 5.2 innings and gave up 5 runs on 5 hits, walking 1 and striking out 9. Jason Doanld, who had his hand broken by Floyd in preseason to really set back his sophomore season, drove in 2 runs for the Indians.

In Allentown, Freddy Galvis (.320 since promotion) continues to impress, with a double and run scored in the Pigs' 5-3 win over Rochester. Andrew Carpenter (1.67) recorded his 7th hold, and Mike Zagurski got his 11th save, even though they each gave up a run.

In Reading, a second straight win looks to have gotten things back on the right track. The R-Phils beat Portland 7-4 with strong pitching from Tyler Cloyd and a 5-run 6th inning rally. Cloyd was very strong for 6 innings, yielding just 1 run on 4 hits and 2 walks, striking out 6 to improve to 4-3, 3.14 since joining Reading. If you add in his numbers from Clearwater, he has 7 wins, 3.02 ERA in 125 total innings. The big hit was a 2-out, 3-run home run by Tuffy Gosewisch, his 11th of the year. Tuffy now has 55 RBI and is having a quietly consistent year. Brent Clevlen hit his 3rd home run in 11 games since joining the team, and added 2 more hits to the cause. Clevlen was let go by the Reds earlier this year.

In Clearwater, the Threshers lost 4-2, to first place Dunedin. It was the 4th loss in a row for Clearwater, and like Reading and Lakewood, the Threshers face a lethal losing streak at the most critical time of the season. David Buchanan made his 3rd start since his promotion, and battled through a not-so-easy 5 innings. Buchanan allowed 4 runs on 6 hits and a walk, before turning it over to Colby Shreve. Colby threw 2 shut out innings, keeping Clearwater in the game. Jiwan James (.273) had 2 hits, including his 4th home run.

In Sacramento, Adrian Cardenas (.305) had 4 hits, scoring a run and driving in another as the River Cats beat Albuquerque, 7-3..............In Chattanooga, Quintin Berry (.293) had 2 more hits, 2 walks, and scored 2 runs as the Mudcats edged the Lookouts. 9-8. It was the 3rd straight 2-hit game for "Q", and he is 11 for 30 (.367) during his current 7-game hitting streak...........In Oklahoma City, Jay Happ started for the RedHawks, and his control problems persist. Jay went 5 innings against Reno, allowing 4 runs (3 earned) on 6 hits and 3 walks, striking out 5, and receiving no decision in the RedHawks' 5-4 come from behind win..............In Pearl, Mississippi, Darren Byrd threw 3 scoreless innings for Huntsville in the Stars' 5-4 loss to the Braves. Byrd (3.14) gave up 2 hits and 4 walks, and let 1 of 2 inherited runners score before settling in.

Domingo Santana

2011-08-16T15:43:00.002-04:00

The final player to be named in the Hunter Pence trade is Domingo Santana, who has left Lakewood for the Astros organization. The HomeSide wishes Domingo the best of luck, and we will be watching!!

Sunday's best

2011-08-15T07:51:00.002-04:00

In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.304) had 3 hits, a walk, scored a run, drove in 2, and stole 2 more bases (increasing his major league leading total to 45), but the Braves lost to the Cubs, 6-5.

In Altoona, it took 12 innings, but Reading ended the losing streak with a 5-4 win over the Curve. Matt Rizzotti (.284) had 3 hits, including 2 doubles, and a walk, and Mike Spidale (.314) added 2 more hits to lead the attack. Austin Hyatt was the starter, and gave the R-Phils 6 innings, allowing 4 runs on 7 hits and 1 walk, striking out 7 along the way. BJ Rosenberg threw 2 scoreless innings (1 hit, 1 K) and Mike Cisco (7-0, 1.88) picked up the win with 1.2 shut out frames. Mike Dubee (2-4, 2.05) was the loser, allowing an UNearned run in the 12th after throwing 2 scoreless inning prior to that, striking out 4 on the way.

In Allentown, Cody Overbeck hit a walk-off home run in the bottom of the 9th inning to give the IronPigs a 2-1 win over Toledo in the first game of a doubleheader. Freddy Galvis (.300 since promotion) had 2 more hits, stole 2 bases and scored a run for Lehigh Valley. Good pitching from everyone; Scott Mathieson (2.56, 4 IP, 1 hit, 3 walks, 4 Ks), Joe Savery (2.51, 2 IP, 1 hit, 4 Ks), Mike Zagurski (2.51, 1 IP, 2 Ks) and Mike Schwimer (9-1, 1.88, 2 IP , 1 run, 3 hits, 2 walks, 3Ks). The second game was suspended in the 3rd inning due to rain.

In Louisville, Matt Maloney pitched another fine game, throwing 7 innings for the Bats and giving up just 1 run, scattering 7 hits and a walk, striking out 3 and getting no decision in Louisville's 2-1 win over Indianapolis. That make 3 pretty good starts in a row for Maloney (4-1, 3.43), who should return to the Reds in September............In Zebulon, Quintin Berry (.286) had 2 hits, including his 6th home run, scored 2 runs and drove in 2, as the Mudcats beat Montgomery, 6-2.........In Lancaster, Jonathan Singleton continues to impress his new team, getting 2 more hits for the JetHawks in their 7-5 loss to San Jose. Singleton is hitting .339 in 14 games since the trade, and .293 overall..........In Springfield, the Cardinals scored 2 in the 9th to tie the game, only to see Corpus Christi scored 2 in the 10th to win it, 5-3. Jonathan Villar (.230) did not start, but entered the game later, and had 2 walks, and scored the winning run in the 10th............In Gwinnett, the Pawtucket Red Sox beat Yohan Flande, 5-0. Flande (7-7, 3.99) went 5 innings and allowed 5 runs on 7 hits and 4 walks (not his best day) for the Braves...........In Nashville, Kyle Drabek and the 51s beat the Sounds, 8-6. Kyle (3-2, 6.55) went the first 5.1 innings, and gave up 5 runs (all in the 1st inning) , 4 earned on 11 hits and just 1 walk. Bobby Korecky (0.96) relieved him in the 6th, and recorded 4 outs without allowing a hit, to notch his second hold for the 51s.

no joy in Mudville!

2011-08-14T10:12:00.005-04:00

In Altoona, the Curve defeated the Reading Phillies, 6-3. It was the 6th straight loss for Reading, who is falling out of the first place race, and will have to right the ship to make a good run at the final playoff spot. They trail Trenton by a game for the last berth. Derrick Mitchell hit his 18th home run of the year, and Mike Spidale (.314, 2 runs) and Fidel Hernandez (.265) had 2 hits apiece for the R-Phils. Tyson Brummett (3-7, 4.44) was the starter and loser, allowing 5 runs on 9 hits in just 4 innings of work.

In Daytona, the Cubs beat the Threshers, 4-3, knocking Clearwater into 3rd place, 1 game behind both Tampa and Dunedin. Sebastian Valle (.304, double, RBI) and Cesar Hernandez (.252) had 2 hits each for Clearwater and Darin Ruf (.316) drove in his 72nd run.

The Greensboro Grasshoppers completed the 4-game sweep of the BlueClaws on Saturday, topping Lakewood 4-2. Lakewood's runs came on a 2-run home run by Carlos Alonso, who had 3 hits and is now hitting .333 in 27 games since joining the team. Bill Rice (.405) and Cameron Rupp (.278) added 2 hits each fell to 24-24 in the second half, and have lost their footing in the chase for first place. Austin Wright (1-1, 2.12) started and went 6 innings and was charged with 4 runs (only 2 earned) on 5 hits and 2 walks, striking out 8. Mario Hollands and Tyler Knigge threw a scoreless inning each in relief.

AROUND THE MINORS

In Lancaster, Jonathan Singleton (.333) had 2 hits and an RBI for the JetHawks, who took a 16-3 beating from the San Jose Giants.............In Springfield, Jarred Cosart pitched a fine game for Corpus Christi, allowing just 1 run on 6 hits, NO walks, over 6 innings of work in the Hooks' 8-7, 14 inning loss to the Cardinals. Josh Zeid (8.53 since trade) had another tough outing, allowing 2 runs on 3 hits without retiring a hitter, and Jonathan Villar (.230) was 1 for 6 on the day..............In Zebulon, the Mudcats beat the Biscuits, 9-4, and Quintin Berry (.282) had a hit, scored a run and drove in another for Carolina..............In Manchester, Anthony Gose (.259) had 2 hits, including his 13th home run of the year, as the Fisher Cats won their 4th in a row, 5-3 over Akron. Kevin Howard added a hit and an RBI for the Cats, and Travis d'Arnaud (.326) took a rare 0 for 4.......In Syracuse, the Chiefs beat the Yanks, 4-2. Greg Golson (.267) , who was mired in an 8 for 40 slump the last 12 games, got 2 hits and is now 4 for his last 11. Maybe he is ready to break out. Scranton has dropped 5 straight and could be falling out of the playoff race........In Nashville, the Sounds beat Las Vegas, 7-6. Zack Segovia (3.86) retired the final 2 hitters to notch his 2nd save for the Sounds, and Bobby Korecky (1.13) threw a scoreless inning for the 51s............In Sacramento, Adrian Cardenas (.301) had a single, a double, a walk, scored a run and drove in another, but the River Cats lost to Round Rock, 6-3.

Ryno's 4 RBI leads Phils

2011-08-14T09:58:00.004-04:00

Ryan Howard (.257) had 2 hits, including his 26th home run, and drove in 4 runs (95) to lead the Phillies to an 11-3 pounding of the Nationals in Philadelphia Saturday. Carlos Ruiz (.259) also had a hit, scored a run and drove in another, and Michael Stutes (3.27) pitched 2 scoreless innings of relief (1 hit, 1 walk, 1 K).

In Cleveland, Jason Donald (.278) had 2 hits and scored a run for the Indians in their 3-1 win over Minnesota.......In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.300) was 1 for 5 for the Braves and stole his major league leading 43rd base , but the Braves dropped an 8-4 decision to the Cubs.

Carrasco DL'd

2011-08-13T12:01:00.002-04:00

Now that his 6-game suspension is complete, the Indians have placed Carlos Carrasco on the DL with inflammation in his pitching elbow. This could explain why he has been a little shaky lately. The Indians have recalled David Huff from AAA Columbus to make the start on Sunday, and probably 2 more while Carlos is sidelined.

Jessie great, but no luck

2011-08-13T08:43:00.003-04:00

The BlueClaws wasted another good effort from Jessie Biddle, and are seeing their season slip away in Greensboro, losing for the 3rd straight night, 2-0. Biddle is 5-8 and certainly pitching much better than that would indicate. In his last 10 starts he has pitched 57.2 innings with a 2.02 ERA and has won just 2 games over that time. Last night he went 6 innings and gave up just 1 run on 2 hits and 1 walk, striking out 6 and taking the loss! The run was a home run by Marcell Ozuna in the first inning. Hector Neris gave up a run in his 3rd appearance since his return from Williamsport, and Ryan Duke (1.59) continues to have have a great debut season, throwing another scoreless frame, striking out 2. Drafted out of Oklahoma in June, Duke has now pitched 18.2 innings combined for Williamsport and Lakewood, allowing just 2 runs on 7 hits and 3 walks, with 22 Ks. Bill Rice (.385 in 13 games with team) stays hot with 2 more hits, and is 11 for 19 (.579) over the last 5.

The Threshers fell out of fist place, dropping a 2-1 decision in Daytona. Julio Rodriguez (15-7, 3.14) took the loss, giving up the 2 runs on 4 hits and 2 walks, striking out 7 in 5 innings of work. Eric Pettis (.2.70) threw 2 scoreless frames in relief, but the offense could not muster a rally. Clearwater got just 4 hits, with Cyle Hankerd's 3rd home run the lone tally. Dunedin grabbed first place, with a 6-4 win over Tampa. The Threshers and the Yankees are 1 game off the pace.

In Altoona, the Curve beat Reading, 7-0. Derrick Mitchell (.268) and Paco Figueroa (.255) had 2 hits each for Reading. Joe Esposito (5-4, 5.15; 5 IP, 2 runs , 6 hits, 3 walks), Chris Kissock (5.08; 2 IP, 3 runs, 3 hits, 2 walks), and Derrick Loop (5.04; 1 IP, 2 runs, 1 hit, 3 walks) pitched for Reading, and Mike Dubee (2.15) threw 2 scoreless innings for Altoona, despite allowing 4 hits. Thanks to Bryce Harper's walk-off home run in Harrisburg, Reading remains tied with Trenton for the final playoff spot. New Hampshire pulled 7 games ahead of the pair with a 7-1 win over Akron. Travis d'Arnaud (.330) hit his 17th home run for the Fisher Cats, and Kevin Howard had a hit and a walk, and drove in 2 more for New Hampshire.

In Lancaster, Jonathan Singleton (.326 since trade) had a single and a triple and scored a run for the JetHawks in San Jose's 8-2 win...............In Frisco, Edgar Garcia (3.54) retired all 8 hitters he faced, 2 by strike out, recording his 3rd save for Northwest Arkansas in the Naturals' 2-0 win over the RoughRiders............In Zebulon, Quintin Berry (.284) had a hit and a walk, stole 2 bases (30 on the year), and scored 2 runs for Carolina, but the Mudcats lost to Montgomery, 12-7..................In Jackson, the Generals beat Huntsville, 11-6. Darren Byrd (3.73) pitched 2.2 inning in relief for the Stars, allowing 3 runs on 6 hits, NO walks, 4 Ks...........In Salt Lake City, Robinson Tejeda (3.58) allowed a run in his inning for Omaha, in the Bees 6-2 win over the Storm Chasers...............In Rochester, Andy Baldwin gave up 5 runs in the first inning, and then completed the game, throwing 8 innings for Rochester in their 6-3 loss to the Clippers. This game was suspended on June 10 in Columbus, and completed yesterday. Baldwin (6-10, 5.14) allowed 10 hits and 2 walks, striking out 6, and has alternated between good outings and bad ones for the last few weeks............In Syracuse, the Chiefs beat the Yankees, 7-4. Greg Golson had a double and scored a run, and also threw out a runner at home for Scranton............In Louisville, Jason Jaramillo (.276) had 2 hits and scored a run for Indianapolis in the Indians' 3-2 win over the Bats..........In Charlotte, the Knights defeated Norfolk, 4-3 in 14 innings. Joe Bisenius (3.34) started and pitched 6 inning for Charlotte, allowing 3 runs on 7 hits and 1 walk, striking out 4.

Hamels, Simon both have off night

2011-08-13T08:22:00.003-04:00

On a night when Cole Hamels struggled with his control, the Nationals got just enough to beat the Phillies, 4-2. Hamels (13-7, 2.62) fought his way through 5 innings, allowing 3 runs on 6 hits and 4 walks, striking out 5 and was seemingly in trouble all the time. Kyle Kendrick did a good job, throwing the next 3 innings and giving up just 1 run on 2 hits and 1 walk, keeping the Phillies in the game. Philadelphia managed just 6 hits, 2 of them by Ryan Howard (.255).

In Baltimore, Alfredo Simon was lit up by the Tigers for 4 runs on 11 hits and 3 walks in just 4.2 innings in the Tigers' 5-4 win. Simon received no decision, but did not help himself. He is part of a large group who is auditioning for a chance at the Orioles rotation in 2012. Last night, he was wild in the strike zone, and the Tigers were hitting one rope after another.

In Atlanta, Dan Uggla extended his hitting streak to 32 games, with 3 hits including 2 home runs as the Braves beat the Cubs, 10-4. Michael Bourn drove in a run with a sacrifice fly.

Howard, Alonso, and Jaramillo

2011-08-12T11:45:00.002-04:00

In Norfolk, the Tides shut out the IronPigs, 7-0. Mike Zagurski (2.57) struck out 2 of the 3 hitters he faced, and Freddy Galvis had 1 of the Pigs' 5 hits. The IronPigs are now 67-53, and trail first place Pawtucket by 1 game. They lead the wild card race by the slimmest of margins, .5 games over the Gwinnett Braves. The Braves won in Scranton, 1-0 behind Randall Delgado, who threw 7 more shut out innings. The 21-year old has thrown 13 straight AAA innings without allowing a run since his promotion. Greg Golson had 1 of the Yankees' 4 hits.

In Reading, the R-Phils lost to Bowie 5-2. JC Ramirez allowed 4 runs in the 2nd inning and Reading was never in it. Mike Cisco (1.94, 1.2 IP, 1 hit, 2 walks, 4 Ks) and BJ Rosenberg (4.37, 2 IP, 1 hit, 3 walks, 2 Ks) threw scoreless relief. Reading is now 59-58, tied with Trenton for the final playoff spot. They both trail New Hampshire by 6 games. The Fisher Cats beat Erie, 3-0 led by 3 hits from Kevin Howard. Kevin had 2 singles, a double, stole a base and drove in 2 of the 3 runs for the Cats. Travis d'Arnaud (.330) drove in the other run, his 60th RBI of the year.

In Tampa, the Yankees beat Clearwater, 4-0. The Threshers were held to just 5 hits, 3 by Brandon Tripp. Jonathan Pettibone (8-10, 3.14) was the hard luck loser, going 6 innings and allowing 3 runs on 7 hits and 2 walks, striking out 6. Colby Shreve may his debut for the Threshers and gave up a run on 2 hits in his inning. With Dunedin winning both game of their doubleheader, these 3 teams are all 25-22. Daytona and Brevard county are 2.5 games back.

In Greensboro, the BlueClaws dropped a 6-3 heartbreaker, having led the game from the start into the 8th inning. Carlos Alonso stayed hot, popping out 3 more hits and raising his average to .312. Bill Rice (.371 in limited action) had 2 hits, including his 2nd home run in his brief time with the team, and Anthony Hewitt belted his 13th dinger of the year. Ervis Manzanillo bounced back from a poor outing last week and went 5 good innings, allowing just 1 run on 3 hits and 2 walks. Ervis left with a 2-1 lead. After Lendy Castillo gave us 2 good frames (3 hits, 2 Ks, hold #4), Jay Johnson surrendered 5 runs (4 earned) on 5 hits and a walk in just .2 innings. For Johnson, (1-4, 3.15), it was his 2nd blown save.

In Columbus, Jason Jaramillo (.269) had 3 hits, including a home run, and 3 RBI for Indianapolis in their 9-1 win over the Clippers.............In Lancaster, the JetHawks lost to San Jose, 15-4. Jonathan Singleton was 1 for 4 for Lancaster, and is hitting .310 with 2 home runs in 11 games since the trade.........In Chattanooga, the Birmingham Barons jumped on Will Savage for 5 runs in the 4th inning (4 earned) on the way to a 7-4 win. The loss for Savage is just his 4th of the year, against 12 wins. The Lookouts are 27-19 in the second half, and in first place by 1.5 games over Tennessee, the first half winner........In Zebulon, Quintin Berry (.285) had 2 hits and knocked in a run for the Mudcats in Carolina's 6-4 loss to Montgomery.

Sergio scorched!

2011-08-12T11:32:00.002-04:00

The most note worthy occurrence on Thursday came late at night in Phoenix, where, in the bottom of the 10th inning, Sergio Escalona served up the walk-off 3-run home run by Chris Young, as the D-Backs came from behind to top the Astros, 8-5. Sergio (3.04) will not absorb the loss, and is only charged with 1 run, having inherited 2 runners when he came in. Escalona has had a very good rookie season and will certainly benefit from this experience in the future.

In Cleveland, Justin Verlander salvaged the final game of the series with the Indians, pitching the Tigers to a 4-3 win. The Indians got only 3 hits in the entire game. Lou Marson walked and scored a run for the Indians.

Shreve promoted

2011-08-11T17:37:00.002-04:00

The Phillies have promoted Colby Shreve to Clearwater. Shreve made 33 appearances for the the BlueClaws, 3 starts out of the gate, and then the move to the bullpen, where Colby has thrived. He was 5-5 with a 2.75 ERA over 72 innings of work, and just last week had a stretch of 21 consecutive innings without allowing an earned run come to an end. He moves into the Clearwater bullpen and Mike McGuire, who was here last year, will come this way in return. Mike was 1-1, 2.67 in 30 innings here last year, and struggled at Clearwater this year, allowing 18 earned runs on 28 hits in just 18 innings of work.

Happ sent down

2011-08-11T11:52:00.004-04:00

Jay Happ, sent to Oklahoma City by the Astros last weekend, made his first start for the RedHawks in Tucson, throwing 6 innings and allowing 1 UNearned run on just 4 hits and 3 walks, with 5 strike outs. Jay received no decision in the RedHawks' 2-1 victory............In Reno, Zack Segovia had control problems, walking 5 hitters and giving up 3 runs on 2 hits in just 1.2 innings of work for Nashville, who trailed the Aces 7-0 after 6. The Sounds then scored 10 runs in the 7th en route to an 11-9 win!!................In Manchester, Travis d'Arnaud (.330) had 2 more hits, Anthony Gose hit his 12th home run of the season, and Kevin Howard reported and played third base, getting a walk in 5 at bats, as the Fisher Cats beat Erie, 8-0.........In North Little Rock, Josh Zeid threw 2 perfect innings for Corpus Christi in the Hooks' 11 inning, 1-0 loss to the Travelers.........The Norfolk Tides scored the game winning run off Justin DeFratus and managed a 5-4 win over the IronPigs on Wednesday. DeFratus (2-2, 4.34) had thrown a scoreless 8th, but lost it in the final frame.

Threshers sweep into first place

2011-08-11T09:59:00.003-04:00

The Clearwater Threshers went into Tampa Wednesday and came out with 2 wins, bypassing the Yankees into first place in a wild Northern Division race that will include 5 teams. Clearwater is 25-21, 1 game ahead of Tampa, 1.5 games to Dunedin, 2 games to Brevard County and 3 games to Daytona, who won the first half. Looks to be a great time to be a fan in the FSL this month!!

The first game of the doubleheader was dominated by the pitching of Trevor May. May (9-6, 3.22) threw a complete game, 2-hit shut out. He struck out 9 and walked only 1. Troy Hanzawa (.232, RBI, run scored), Jiwan James (.272, RBI, run scored) and Jeremy Barnes (.276, single, double, 2 RBI) had 2 hits each in the 4-0 victory.

7th inning RBI from Cyle Hankerd, Travis Mattair, and Cesar Hernandez (his 2nd of the game) gave the Threshers a 6-5 win and the sweep. Brian Gump had 2 hits and scored 2 runs and Darin Ruf (.318) had a hit, scored a run and drove in his 71st run of the year.

Phillies complete record road trip

2011-08-11T09:32:00.002-04:00

The Philadelphia Phillies ended their California road trip in grand style, with a comeback from down 6-0, to take a 9-8 victory on the way out of LA. Ryan Howard (.252) had 2 hits, including his 25th home run, 2 walks, scored 3 runs and drove in 2 (NL leading 91) to help the comeback. The win gave the Phillies a sweep of the Dodgers, and their best ever California road trip, going 9-1.

Vance Worley had a rare off outing. Vance (8-1, 2.85) battled his way through 4 innings, and allowed 6 runs, on 7 hits and 3 walks, striking out 6. He also got a key 2-out, RBI single in the top of the 4th which cut the Dodger lead to 6-3 at the time. Kyle Kendrick was the winning pitcher (7-5), even though he gave up a run on 2 hits, striking out 2 in his inning. Antonio Bastardo (1.41) used only 16 pitches to retire all 5 hitters he faced, and picked up his 11th hold.

The win for Kendrick is #73 for the HomeSide.

In Cleveland, Lou Marson (.222) had a key double that triggered a 4-run rally in the 4th inning as the Indians beat the Tigers again, this time by the score of 10-3. The Tribe is just 2 games behind Detroit, and these teams will see alot of each other down the stretch........In Miami, Michael Bourn (.303) led off the game with a single, scored the first run and led the Braves to a "never-look-back" 6-2 win over the Marlins.............In Phoenix, Sergio Escalona (2.70) once again came on to face 1 hitter, today it was Miguel Montero, and struck him out.

Galvis, Maloney and Cardenas

2011-08-10T15:31:00.002-04:00

In Norfolk, Freddy Galvis (.286 since promotion) had a single and a double, drove in 2 runs and scored another, and Domonic Brown added 2 walks, a stolen base and a run scored in the IronPigs' 11-9 win over the Tides. Mike Schwimer (8-1, 1.80) has not given up many leads this year, but he gave up a 5-4 lead last night, and ended up the winner when the Pigs rallied for 6 in the 9th. Andrew Carpenter (1.58) struck out the side in his inning, giving up 1 hit, and recording his 6th hold.

In Louisville, Matt Maloney (4-1, 3.71) went 6 innings for the Bats, allowing 2 runs on 6 hits and 1 walk, striking out 6 in Louisville's 5-2 win over Columbus. I believe Matt will be recalled when the rosters expand..............In Scranton, the Yankees swept a pair of games from Gwinnett. In the opener, Yohan Flande started for Gwinnett, and threw 6 effective innings. He did allow 3 runs on 4 hits and 2 walks, leaving the game in a 3-3 tie, which Scranton won with a run in the 8th. Greg Golson's slump continues, he was 0 for 6 in the doubleheader and is 3 for his last 30..............In Iowa City, the Cubs beat Sacramento, 14-7. Adrian Cardenas (.300) was 3 for 5, with an RBI and a run scored. Michael Taylor (.297) chipped in with a double, an RBI, and a run scored for Sacramento.

d'ARNAUD, SPIDALE KEEP ROLLIN'

In Manchester, Travis d'Arnaud (.329, 59 RBI) had 3 more hits, including his team leading 16th home run, but New Hampshire lost, 4-2 to Erie. The Fisher Cats remain 4 games ahead of Reading, who lost at home to Bowie, 5-4. Austin Hyatt (10-6) could not get out of the 1st inning and was charged with 4 runs in just .2 innings of work. Good relief work from Derrick Loop (2.1 IP, 1 run, 5 hits, 6 Ks), Chris Kissock (4 IP, 2 hits, 1 walk, 2 Ks) and Jacob Diekman (2 IP, 1 hit, 1 walk, 2 Ks) kept the R-Phils in the game, but they come up short a run in the end. Mike Spidale had another 3-hit game. Mike (.313) had 2 single, a double, a walk, and 2 RBI and is deserving of a promotion.

In Huntsville, the Tennessee Smokies won both ends of a doubleheader from the Stars. In the first game, an 8-0 Smokies' win, Jesus Sanchez came on in long relief and did a good job. Jesus (5.19) went 4 innings, gave up 1 run on 4 hits before yielding to Darren Byrd, who threw a scoreless 7th........In Visalia, Jonathan Singleton (.316 since the trade) had a double in 4 at bats for the JetHawks, who lost to the Rawhide, 2-1.

Floyd wins 10th

2011-08-10T15:03:00.002-04:00

In Miami, Michael Bourn (.305) had a double, 2 walks, an RBI and scored a run for the Braves in Atlanta's 4-3 win over the Marlins. This a follow up to Monday's 2 hits, 2 runs, an RBI and stolen base #42..............Monday in LA, Ryan Howard had 2 hits and 2 RBI (89), and Carlos Ruiz added a hit and scored a run in the 5-3 Philadelphia win. Both Antonio Bastardo (1.47, 1 hitter, 2 outs, hold #10) and Mike Stutes (.1 IP, 2 runs, 2 hits, but a hold, #7) saw action...........Tuesday in Phoenix, the Diamondbacks outscored the Astros, 11-9. Sergio Escalona (2.74) struck out the only hitter he faced.

In Baltimore, the White Sox beat the Orioles, 4-3 for Gavin Floyd's 10th win. Gavin pitched 6.2 inning for the Sox, allowing 3 runs on 7 hits and 1 walk, evening his mark at 10-10, with a 4.53 ERA.

It was win #72 for the HomeSide.

MONDAY'S LEFTOVERS

In Norfolk, Scott Mathieson (1-1,2.73) threw 7 strong innings for Lehigh Valley, allowing just 1 run on only 4 hits and 1 walk, striking out 8 in the IronPigs' 6-3 over the Tides. Domonic Brown (.315) had a double, a walk, and an RBI, stole a base and scored a run for Lehigh.......In Las Vegas, Kyle Drabek threw 6 innings for the 51s, and gave up 4 runs on 9 hits and 3 walks, and received no decision in Vegas' 12-4 win. Bobby Korecky got the win with 2 scoreless innings of relief, his first since his recent promotion. The Blue Jays also announced that Kevin Howard has been reassigned to New Hampshire, but Kevin is yet to report to the Fisher Cats........Zack Segovia (5-3) was in the right place at the right time, throwing a 1-2-3 inning and picking up a win when the Sounds rallied for a 6-4 victory over Reno.

Move 'em up!!

2011-08-09T10:48:00.002-04:00

It's August 9th, lets reward our first basemen with a promotion each. Jim Murphy, Darin Ruf, and Matt Rizzotti all desrerve it and it would be excellent if it all happened at once.

We begin Monday's highlights with Murphy tying the Lakewood single season record for home runs with 22. Murph was 2 for 3, with 2 walks, scored 2 and drove 2 in and at .272, 22 HR and 70 RBI, has certainly earned the bump. Carlos Perdomo had 3 hits and drove in 2 runs, and the BlueClaws mounted a great comeback (down 7-3 going to the bottom of the 6) for a 10-7 win over West Virginia.

So Murphy should go to Clearwater and replace Ruf, who hit his 15th home run in a 2-1 Clearwater victory over Daytona. Darin is hitting .319 and driven in 70 runs for the Threshers, and should get the promotion to Reading, where he can step in for Rizzotti. Rizzotti, in turn, should get a look in Lehigh Valley, having hit .286 with 20 HR and 67 RBI for Reading. This would also be a good idea if they plan to call Matt up to the big team when the rosters expand in September.

Lincecum, Giants avoid sweep

2011-08-08T08:18:00.005-04:00

The San Francisco Giants salvaged the final game of their set with Phillies, taking a 3-1 decision behind Tim Lincecum. "The Freak" bested Roy Oswalt, who pitched OK in his first start coming off the DL. Oswalt gave up 3 runs on 12 hits over 6 innings, but the Phils could not get anything going against the Giants, ending their 9-game winning streak. Carlos Ruiz (.265) had 2 of the Phillies' 8 hits, and Mike Stutes (3.02) threw a scoreless bottom of the 8th.

In New York, Michael Bourn (.304) had a walk and a hit, and drove in a run for the Braves in their 6-5 win over the Mets........In Baltimore, the Blue Jays got to Alfredo Simon (3-5, 4.08) for 6 runs (4 earned) on 10 hits, NO walks in 5.2 innings of work, tagging him with the loss in a 7-2 Toronto win................In Houston, the Brewers beat the Astros, 7-3, with Sergio Escalona (2.78) giving up a run on 2 hits in his inning of work.

Rodriguez wins 15th

2011-08-07T10:38:00.003-04:00

Julio Rodriguez' break out season extended to his 15th win of the year, a 5-4 victory over first half nemesis, Daytona. The Cubs were the hump the Threshers could not get over in the first half, but the confidence is growing in Clearwater, despite the trade of Jonathan Singleton and Jarred Cosart right off their roster. It was not the most artistic of outing for "J-Rod", struggling through 5 innings, and allowing 3 runs on just 2 hits and 2 walks, striking out 7, to go to 15-6, 3.13 on the year. Ebelin Lugo (2 IP, 1hit, 1K, hold #5) and Eric Pettis (1 IP, 1 walk, hold #7) pitched well in relief.

Jeremy Barnes (.274, HR #7, 2 RBI, 2 runs), Sebastian Valle (.306, double, 2 RBI), Troy Hanzawa (double, run) and Alan Schoenberger (double, run) all had 2 hits for Clearwater. The Threshers (22-20) are tied with Dunedin, 1 game behind Tampa with 28 games to go.

HEWITT COMES UP WITH ANOTHER BIG HIT

Anthony Hewitt was having a tough night at the plate Saturday (2 strike outs, and a bullet line drive that turned into a DP), but came up huge with the game on the line in the bottom of the 8th inning with a game-tying, bases clearing double!! Jim Murphy then singled Hewitt home with what proved to be the winning run in a thrilling 5-4 come-from-behind win over the Power. Hewitt (.239) now has 48 RBI, and Murphy (.271) has a team leading 68. Bill Rice (.304) came off the bench and was 3 for 3 with a triple and 2 runs scored to give Lakewood a spark! Mario Hollands made the spot start and did an excellent job for the Claws, preserving the bullpen and going 5 solid innings, keeping Lakewood in the game (1 run, 5 hits, 1 walk, 1 K). After Lendy Castillo got roughed up (1.2 IP, 3 runs 4 hit) and responded with back-to-back hit batters (which got him ejected), Hector Neris restored order, recording the next 4 outs and picking up the win when Lakewood rallied. Ryan Duke (1.74) threw a scoreless 9th for his 6th save.

At 23-19, the BlueClaws are in 3rd place, 1.5 games behind Kannapolis and 1 game in back of Hickory. Austin Wright (1-0) will make his second start for the Claws on Sunday.

NEWCOMER SPARKS R-PHILS, PIGS LOSE

Recently signed Brent Clevlin had 4 hits and 5 RBI to lead Reading to a 9-3 win in Binghamton. Tim Kennelly added 2 hits and 2 RBI and Joe Esposito picked up the win with 5.2 innings of work. "Espo" gave up 3 runs on 3 hits and 3 walks, striking out 7 to improve to 5-3, 5.32 on the year. Reading in 59-54, 4 games out of first, and 1 game ahead of Trenton for the final playoff spot.......In Durham, the Bulls topped Lehigh Valley, 6-2. Freddy Galvis had 2 hits and scored a run for the IronPigs, and (at 6 for 15) is hitting .400 in 4 games with Lehigh.

SAVAGE WINS AGAIN

In Jacksonville, Will Savage threw 7 more strong innings for Chattanooga, as the Lookouts beat the Suns, 7-3. Will (12-3, 3.38) is having a fine season for the Dodger's affiliate, and Saturday it was more of the same. Just 1 run on 5 hits and 2 walks, as the Lookouts improve to 25-16 in the second half, and have a 3-game lead over first half winner Tennessee................In Lancaster, Jonathan Singleton (.286 since trade) was 1 for 4 and scored a run for the JetHawks as Lancaster defeated Inland Empire, 7-5............In Omaha, the Sacramento River Cats gave Josh Outman a 4-0 2nd inning lead, which he could not hold. Outman (7-2, 3.84) lasted just 4 innings, allowing 6 runs on 6 hits and 2 walks, striking out 6 in the Storm Chasers' 7-5 win. Michael Taylor hit his 13th home run of the year for the River Cats................In a wild one in Indianapolis, Jason Jarramillo (.274) had a double, a walk, an RBI and scored a run for the Indians in their 9-8 win over Toledo.

Hamels' gem makes in 9 in a row for Phils

2011-08-07T09:46:00.002-04:00

Cole Hamels continues to shine, beating the Giants, 2-1 on Saturday with a complete game 7-hitter. Hamels (13-6, 2.53) was 1 pitch short of a shut out when Pablo Sandoval homered with 2 out in the bottom of the 9th for San Francisco's lone run. Cole allowed NO walks and struck out 5 in his latest masterpiece, which also gave him some revenge on Matt Cain, who defeated Cole and the Phillies 2-1 in Philadelphia 10 days ago.

The Phillies manufactured just 5 hits, 1 of them by Ryan Howard (.253). The Phillies will hand the 9-game winning streak to Roy Oswalt, fresh off the DL. Roy has not made a start sine June 23. Kyle Kendrick will return to the bullpen now, and Scott Mathieson shuttles back to the IronPigs with Ryan Madson coming off the DL.

The win for Hamels is #71 on the HomeSide.

In New York, the Mets hit 4 home runs to top the Braves, 11-7. Michael Bourn (.305) was 3 for 4 and a walk, scored a run and stole his major league leading 41st base for Atlanta........In Houston, Bourn's former team, the Astros lost to Milwaukee, 7-5. Sergio Escalona (2.49) retired the only hitter he faced........In Arlington, the Cleveland Indians finally beat the Rangers, but it took a 4-run 9th inning rally to produce the 7-5 win. The Rangers had won all 5 games this year and 17 of the previous 20 against the Tribe. Lou Marson walked and scored a run for the Indians.

crazy 8s

2011-08-06T11:02:00.003-04:00

The Phillies won their 8th straight game Friday night in San Francisco, beating the Giants 9-2. Vance Worley (2.35) won his 8th game of the year against just 1 loss, by throwing 7 good frames, scattering 7 hits and a walk, and allowing just 2 runs, and striking out 6. Mike Stutes (3.10) tossed another scoreless inning, and Shane Victorino, John Mayberry, and Hunter Pence all homered.

The win was #70 for the HomeSide.

In Houston, Jay Happ (4-14, 6.26) was hit hard again, this time by Milwaukee for 6 runs on 7 hits and 3 walks in just 4 innings. There is something not quite right with Happ. He is throwing a far too low percentage of strikes, and when he is in the zone, he is getting hammered........In New York, Michael Bourn (.301) drove in a run with a sacrifice fly to help the Braves beat the Mets, 4-1..................In Arlington, Jason Donald was 1 for 5 and scored a run for the Indians in their 8-7, 11-inning loss to the Rangers.

In Lakewood, Cameron Rupp had 3 more hits, and is now hitting .280, but the BlueClaws lost to West Virginia, 7-3. Good relief pitching from Tyler Knigge (4.1 IP, 1 run, 3 hits, 1 walk, 3 Ks) and Colby Shreve (3 IP, first earned run in over 20 innings) after Ervis Manzinillo could not get out of the 1st inning.............In Clearwater, Tampa shut out the Threshers, 7-0 on 6 hits. Darin Ruf (.318) and Travis Mattair had 2 hits each for the Threshers...............In Binghamton, Matt Rizzotti hit his 20th home run for Reading, but the Mets took a 6-3 decision from the Phillies. "Riz" is hitting .290 and has driven in 67 runs so far. Steve Singleton had 2 more hits, including a double, and scored a run for the R-Phils. Chris Kissock had a nice outing, going 3.1 relief innings when J.C.Ramirez could not complete the 3rd. Kissock allowed 1 run on 4 hits, NO walks, and kept Reading within striking distance...........In Durham, the IronPigs edged the Bulls, 4-3. Freddy Galvis had 2 hits and drove in a run, and Domonic Brown (.328) added a hit and a walk. Joe Savery (3-0, 3.48) was the winning pitcher, ironically because he gave up a run in his inning and then benefited from Lehigh Valley's 2-run 7th. Mike Zagurski retired all 4 hitters he faced and got credit for his 8th hold.

In Bowie, the combination of Anthony Gose (single, walk, HR #11, 3 runs, SB #51) and Travis d'Arnaud (.331, 2 single, double, 2 RBI) for New Hampshire devastated the BaySox 11-3..........In Omaha, it was the combination of Adrian Cardenas (.298, 3 for 4, double RBI) and Michael Taylor (.296, 2 for 4 run scored) proving to be the difference in Sacramento's 2-1 win over the Storm Chasers.

In Springdale, Edgar Garcia recorded his 2nd save for Northwest Arkansas with 3 solid innings, allowing only 1 hit and 1 walk as the Naturals beat the Arkansas Travelers, 6-2............In Corpus Christi, Jonathan Villar (.236) had 2 hits again for the Hooks in their 4-3 loss to Midland.......In Las Vegas, the 51s took a 10-inning, 6-5 win from Oklahoma City. Kevin Howard (.298) was 1 for 3, and Bobby Korecky (1.93) retired 5 hitters for Vegas, allowing 1 run on 1 hit and 1 walk..........In Scranton, the Yankees routed the Bats, 8-4. Greg Golson (.273) was 1 for 5, and threw out a runner at home!

Thursday's comings and goings

2011-08-05T13:39:00.002-04:00

First order of business is: Scott Mathieson's recall Thursday back to the Phillies.

In Durham, the IronPigs defeated the Bulls, 5-3. Domonic Brown (.333) had a hit and a walk, and Freddy Galvis (2 for 8 since promotion)tripled in a run, and then scored in the Pigs' 5-run 4th inning. Justin DeFratus gave up a run on 3 hits in his inning, but did strike out 2, and Mike Schwimer (1.73) picked up his 10th save with a perfect 9th (2 Ks). Lehigh Valley is now 64-49 and leads Pawtucket by 1.5 games and Scranton by 4. Scranton lost at home to Louisville, 3-2. Matt Maloney (3.80) started for Louisville and went 6 good innings, giving up just 2 runs on 4 hits, NO walks and 5 strike outs for a no decision. Greg Golson (.274) took an 0 for 4 for the Yanks. Golson is mire in a 6 for 33 (.182) slump the last 9 games.

In Indianapolis, the Indians beat Toledo, 4-3. Jason Jaramillo (.280) was 1 for 3 for Indianapolis..........In Charlotte, Yohan Flande (7-6) started for Gwinnett and went 5 innings, charged with 3 runs on 8 hits, 1 walk and 4 Ks, and took the loss in the Knights 6-2 over the Braves..........In Colorado Springs, in the second game of a doubleheader, Zack Segovia (3.61) threw 2 innings for Nashville, allowing a run on 3 hits and 1 walk in the SkySox'9-6 win over the Sounds...........In Omaha, Michael Taylor (.294) had 2 hits for Sacramento in the River Cats' 4-3 win over the Storm Chasers.

In San Antonio, Josh Zeid's adjustment to the Texas League continues. Josh came on for the Hooks and gave up 2 UNearned runs, but did allow 3 hits and a walk in his inning of the Mission's 6-1 victory. New league, new ballparks, new hitters, it takes time to adjust. Jonathan Villar (.232) had a single and a double and scored the Hooks' run.

Cyle Hankerd homered for the second time in as many games as a Thresher, Brandon Tripp went deep twice, (3 in the last 2 games) and Sebastian Valle (.308) hit his 5th home run and drove in 3 runs as Clearwater beat Tampa, 8-4. Darin Ruf (.315) had 2 doubles, 2 walks, scored 2 runs and drove in #68. Trevor May (3.40) struck out 10 in his 5 innings, but the win went to Juan Sosa, his first since joining the Threshers. Eric Pettis got 4 straight outs and picked up his 6th hold. The result of this game leaves the Threshers, the Yankees, and the Blue Jays all tied atop the division at 21-19. The Daytona Cubs, the first half winners, are 1 game back. Buckle up in the sunshine state, it gonna be a hot August!!

Clutch Hewitt gives Lakewood a win

2011-08-04T10:32:00.002-04:00

Anthony Hewitt hit a 2-out, 2-run home run in the top of the 9th inning to break a scoreless tie, and the BlueClaws took a 3-0 win in Salisbury Wednesday. It was Hewitt's 12th home run of the season. Earlier in the game, Anthony (.244) had singled and stolen second base. It was his 31st SB.

Domingo Santana (.274) and Cameron Rupp (.272) also had 2 hits each. Both of their averages are on the rise.

Garrett Claypool gave another good effort and came up empty for a win. 6 shut out frames (5 hits, 3 walks) with 5 strike outs. Lendy Castillo (4-1, 2.02) was the winning pitcher, going the next 2 innings, and Ryan Duke (2.16) threw a scoreless 9th for his 5th save.

With the victory, the BlueClaws improve to 22-17 in the second half, just 1 game behind Hickory. Lisalberto Bonilla (2-3, 2.40) will face Delmarva tonight in the finale of the road trip.

d'Arnaud does it again

2011-08-04T10:23:00.003-04:00

Travis d'Arnaud drove in the game winning runs with a single with 2 out in the 9th inning Wednesday to give the New Hampshire Fisher Cats a 4-3, come from behind victory in Richmond. Travis (.328) is smoking hot, and drove in another run earlier in the game. He now has 55 for the season. I could see Travis getting the call for a promotion to AAA Las Vegas very soon, now.

Anthony Gose had a hit and scored a run in the winning rally. He also stole 2 more bases, and now has 50 on the year.

Howard carries Phils to sweep

2011-08-04T09:44:00.003-04:00

Ryan Howard drove in 4 runs, with a double and his 24th home run of the season, and the Phillies beat the Rockies, 8-6. Howard (.255) now has 87 RBI, tops in the NL.--- A thought right here about Ryan Howard. If this is an off year (24 HR, 87 RBI on August 4) -I want this player on my team!! Fielder, Pujols, Teixeira- you can have them, give me "Ryno".

OK, I'm off the soapbox........in yesterday's game, Carlos Ruiz added a hit and scored a run, and then Antonio Bastardo gave up a home run to Todd Helton, and saw his ERA jump to 1.49. Bastardo struck out 2 in his inning and received his 9th "hold".

The Phillies have won 6 straight, and head to San Francisco to play 4 with the Giants. The Giants took 2 of 3 last week in Philly. Roy Oswalt is still a possibility for that series.

In Washington, Michael Bourn (.303) had a hit, stole his league leading 40th base, and scored 2 runs to help the Atlanta Braves salvage the final game of their series with the Nationals with a 6-4 victory.........In Boston, Carlos Carrasco allowed 2 runs after 2 were out in the first inning, but settled into a nice outing, working out of consistent trouble, keeping the Cleveland Indians in the game. He left after 7 innings, with score tied at 3-3. 2 of the 3 runs were earned, and he allowed 9 hits and 3 walks. A good recovery after a shaky start. Carlos will now serve his 6-game suspension and will have his next start pushed back a few days. Lou Marson was 0 for 4, and is 0 for his last 15 (i believe). Hang in there, Lou!

In case you haven't heard, the Yankees started the game with bunt, bunt, broken-bat single, and parlayed that into 4 first inning runs off Gavin Floyd. It did not end there for Gavin, who was hit hard and often by New York. In 2.1 IP, 10 runs, 9 hits and a walk!! Ouch.

Threshers overwhelm Tampa

2011-08-03T12:26:00.003-04:00

The Clearwater Threshers hit 5 home runs, 4 in the 4th inning, en route to a 10-3 victory over the first place Yanks. Brandon Tripp, Cyle Hankerd (playing his first game for Clearwater), and Travis Mattair going back-to-back-to-back. Darin Ruf had homered earlier in the inning, and Jeremy Barnes had gone deep in the 1st. Everybody in the Clearwater line up had at least 1 hit, taking the pressure off David Buchanan, who made his Threshers' debut with 6 good innings, allowing 3 runs (2 earned) on 7 hits and 2 walks to earn the win, his 12th overall this year. Ebelin Lugo threw 2 scoreless innings, and Andy Loomis (1.65) finished it off.

In Reading, Tuffy Gosewisch had 3 hits, including a double and his 10th home run of the year, to lead Reading to an 8-4 win over Harrisburg. Mike Spidale (.321) had 2 more hits and stole his 17th base, and Steve Singleton hit a pinch hit grand slam home run in his first at bat for the R-Phils!! Singleton was hitting for Tyson Brummett, and his big blow gave Tyson the victory. Brummett gave up 4 runs (3 earned) on 8 hits, NO walks, and struck out 3 to improve to 3-5, 3.44 on the year.........In Scranton, the Yankees edged the IronPigs, 3-2. Domonic Brown hit his 3rd home run for Lehigh Valley, and Freddy Galvis was 1 for 4 in his AAA debut. Scott Mathieson started and went 5, giving up 2 runs on 5 hits and 3 walks, while striking out 7. Andrew Carpenter (1.66) took the loss, allowing a rare run in his 2 innings.

Jarred Cosart made his debut for Corpus Christi and threw 6 shut out inning at San Antonio, giving the home team just 2 hits, NO walks, and struck out 4. Josh Zeid threw a scoreless 7th, before being ambushed for 4 runs on 4 hits in the 8th, and the Missions took a 4-0 decision from the Hooks. Jonathan Villar had a hit and a walk for the Hooks......In Bakersfield, Jonathan Singleton hit his first home run for Lancaster (#10 on the year), and his 2 hits make him 5 for 11 (.455) since joining the JetHawks. The Blaze routed Lancaster, 20-7.

In Richmond, Travis d'Arnuad (.326) had 3 hits, 2 doubles and his 15th home run and Anthony Gose added 2 doubles as the New Hampshire Fisher Cats held on for a 7-6 win over the Flying Squirrels............In Tulsa, the Drillers beat Northwest Arkansas 6-2, and got to Edgar Garcia (4.26) for 2 runs on 2 hits and 3 walks in just 1.2 innings of work.......In Charlotte, Joe Bisenius (2.98) was hit hard by the Durham Bulls, giving up 7 runs on 5 hits and 5 walks in just 3 innings of work, and suffered his first loss for the Knights.............In Sacramento, Adrian Cardenas (.296) had a triple, an RBI and scored a run, and Michael Taylor (.283) had a single and 2 walks, also scoring a run as the River Cats defeated Colorado Springs, 8-6.

The Blue Jays have promoted Bobby Korecky from New Hampshire to Las Vegas, and Bobby made his debut for the 51s Tuesday, and recorded a save in Las Vegas' 6-2 win in Tacoma. Korecky retired all 9 hitters he faced, striking out 5 of them........Robinson Tejeda also got a 3-inning save for Omaha in the Storm Chasers 13-2 win in Oklahoma City. Robinson (3.48) allowed a run on 3 hits, NO walks, and struck out 4.

Wright just right!

2011-08-03T12:07:00.002-04:00

Austin Wright made his debut for the BlueClaws Tuesday and threw 6 sparkling innings. He allowed just 1 run on 6 hits and 1 walk and 5 Ks in the Claws' 6-2 win over the Shorebirds. Wright, who was 3-1, 3.38 in 8 games (7 starts) in Williamsport, was selected in the 8th round by the Phillies in this June's draft out of University of Mississippi. Colby Shreve (2.82) threw 2 more scoreless innings and has not allowed a run in his last 11.1 innings of work, and not allowed an EARNED run since June.

Domingo Santana (.270) had a single, a double, a walk, an RBI, and scored 3 times to pace the Lakewood attack with Anthony Hewitt (2 singles, 2 stolen bases- for a team leading 30, and scored a run), Miguel Alverez and Jim Murphy (2 doubles) all adding 2 hits each.

Lakewood is now 21-17 in the second half, just 2 games behind Hickory, and will send Garrett Claypool against Delmarva tonight.

Ryno belts 2

2011-08-03T07:27:00.002-04:00

Ryan Howard hit 2 home run in Denver Tuesday, giving him 23 on the year (and 83 RBI), to back the shut out pitching of Kyle Kendrick in the Phillies 5-0 win. Kyle (6-5, 3.19) threw his best game of the year- 8 innings, 4 hits, 2 walks, 7 Ks to earn the victory.........In Kansas City, Alfredo Simon started for Baltimore and threw 7 strong innings, allowing just 1 run on 4 hits and 1 walk, striking out 3 to improve to 3-4 on the year in the Orioles' 8-2 win over the Royals.......In Washington, Michael Bourn (.304) had a single and a double, and drove in a run for the Braves, but Atlanta lost to the Nationals, 9-3.

The wins by Kendrick and Simon make a total of 69 for the HomeSide.

Galvis promoted

2011-08-02T18:32:00.003-04:00

Red hot Freddy Galvis has been promoted from Reading to Lehigh Valley, along with Carlos Rivero. Steve Singleton will be moved up from Lakewood to Reading, and Maikel Franco has moved up to Lakewood from Williamsport. Speaking of new additions in Lakewood, Austin Wright makes his BlueClaws' debut tonight in Delmarva.

Oswalt good in rehab start

2011-08-02T12:09:00.003-04:00

The IronPigs and the Yankees split a doubleheader in Scranton on Monday, with Lehigh Valley winning the opener, 4-3. Roy Oswalt started for the Pigs and went 6 good innings. Mike Zagurski (3-0, 2.27) threw a scoreless frame and picked up the win when Lehigh scored 2 in the 8th. Mike Schwimer (1.76) recorded his 9th save. Domonic Brown had 2 hits, a walk, a stolen base and scored a run. The Yankees took the second game, 4-1. Joe Savery threw a scoreless inning in that one, and Greg Golson (.282) was 1 for 6 (with a walk, and a run scored) on the day. The split leaves Scranton in 3rd place, 4 games behind the front running IronPigs.

David Buchanan will make his debut for Clearwater tonight against first place Tampa.

After a pinch hit double in his debut for Lancaster on Sunday, Jonathan Singleton popped 2 more hits yesterday in the JetHawks' 4-3 loss at Bakersfield..............In Huntsville, Quintin Berry (.277) had a hit and a walk, stole his 22nd base, and scored a run for the Mudcats in Carolina's 13-1 pounding of the Stars. Jesus Sanchez (5.35) threw the final 2 innings for the Stars, allowing 3 runs on 3 hits and a walk.......In Sacramento, Josh Outman (3.21) threw 5 solid innings, and allowed just 1 UNearned run on 2 hits and 3 walks, in a game won by the Rover Cats, 4-3 with a run in the 9th inning. Adrian Cardenas ran for Kevin Kouzmanoff and scored the game winner............In Tacoma, the Rainiers beat the 51s, 4-2. Kevin Howard (.300) had 2 hits for Las Vegas...........In Rochester, Buffalo got to Andy Baldwin for 5 runs (4 earned) on 8 hits over 6 innings on their way to a 9-6 win. Andy is 5-9, 5.81 and has been losing effectiveness lately.

deja vu, a la Bastardo

2011-08-02T11:44:00.002-04:00

For the second game in a row, Antonio Bastardo pitched 1 scoreless inning and was awarded a victory when the Phillies scored the winning run. On Monday, Bastardo (5-0, 1.31) threw the bottom of the 9th after John Mayberry's home run had tied it, making him the beneficiary of Shane Victorino's game winner in a 4-3 win over the Rockies. Cole Hamels went the first 6, allowing just 2 runs on 6 hits and a walk, both runs coming on Seth Smith's home run in the 2nd. Otherwise, Cole was very good. Mike Stutes allowed 1 run in 2 innings of work. Carlos Ruiz (.268) had 2 doubles and scored a run for Philadelphia.

The win for Bastardo was #67 for the HomeSide.

In Washington, Michael Bourn made his debut for the Braves, going 1 for 4 in Atlanta's 5-3 loss, while his old team, the Astros, took a 4-3 game from the Reds. Sergio Escalona (2.53) retired all 4 hitters he faced, picking up a strike out.

Buchanan promoted

2011-08-01T07:56:00.003-04:00

The Phillies completed a sweep of the Pirates on Sunday with a come from behind, 10-inning 6-5 win. Vance Worley (2.33) made the start and went 6 innings, allowing 4 runs on 7 hits, NO walks, and 7 strike outs. The win went the Antonio Bastardo (4-0, 1.34), who threw a 1-2-3 10th. Ryan Howard (.253) followed his 4-hit game Saturday with a 1 for 5 on Sunday.

It was win #66 for the HomeSide, on pace for 100!!

In Cleveland, Jason Donald had a walk in 3 at bats for the Indians in his 2011 debut, as did Lou Marson in the Royals' 5-3 win over the Tribe.

The Phillies also announced on Saturday the promotion of David Buchanan from Lakewood to Clearwater. David was 11-5 in his 20 starts for the Claws and will step into the Clearwater rotation to replace traded Jarred Cosart. Mario Hollands stepped into Buchanan's scheduled start Sunday in Charleston, giving Lakewood 3 innings (1 run, 2 hits, 3 walks) on short notice. Lendy Castillo (3-1) was the winning pitcher, tossing the next 3 frames (2 hits, 3 walks, 3 Ks), with Chase Johnson (hold) and Ryan Duke (4th save) finishing off the 6-1 win over the Power. Edgar Duran led the attack with 3 hits and an RBI out of the lead-off spot, and Anthony Hewitt hit his 11th home run of the year, 1 of his 2 hits on the afternoon. Domingo Santana and Bill Rice also had 2 hits each. The win gives the BlueClaws a mark of 20-16 in the second half (53-51 overall) and leaves them 2 games behind first place Hickory.

In Palm Beach, Julio Rodriguez won his 14th game of the year for the Threshers in a 3-2 Clearwater win over the Cardinals. "J-Rod" (3.03) went 6 good innings, giving up 2 runs on 5 hits and 1 walk, striking out 6. Eric Pettis (3.10) recorded his 5th hold with 2 scoreless frames. Darin Ruf (.310) had 3 hits to lead the attack, scoring a run and driving 1 in, and Jeremy Barnes (.279) and Travis Mattair (.257) added 2 hits each for the Threshers, who have won 8 of 10 to improve to 19-18 in the second half (58-48 overall), and pulled to within 2 games of front running Tampa.............In Manchester, the Reading Phillies gained a split of their 4-game set with New Hampshire by posting a 10-6 win Sunday. Carlos Rivero (3 doubles) and Paco Figueroa (2 doubles) had 3 hits each for Reading and Freddy Galvis added 2 more. Freddy is 16 for his last 41 (that's .390) over the last 10 games. Joe Esposito (4-3, 5.40) was the winning pitcher, going 5 innings (2 runs, 4 hits, 3 walks). Chris Kissock tossed 2 scoreless frames, and B.J. Rosenberg (back in the bullpen) had a rough outing (2 runs 2 hits 3 walks, only 1 out) before Mike Cisco (1.91) came in the record the save, his 2nd. Cisco and Rosenberg will both get some save opportunities with the trade of Josh Zeid.

Speaking of Zeid, Josh made his debut for Corpus Christi in Midland Sunday, recording a hold by getting 2 outs (1 K) in the Hooks' 8-7 win over the Rock Hounds. Jonathan Villar belted his 8th home run of the season for the Hooks..................In Sacramento, Adrian Cardenas (.296) had 2 hits and a walk, scoring 2 runs, and Michael Taylor (.285) added a double, 2 walks, and 2 runs cored in the River Cats 12-4 win over Colorado Springs.............In Rochester, Greg Golson (.284) had 2 hits, 2 stolen bases (12), scored a run and drove in another, but the Red Wings beat Scranton, 6-3.