AAA - Albuquerque 10 Oklahoma City 2
3 RedHawks errors led to 4 unearned runs and Philip Humber lost for the 9th time this year as the Isotopes hammered the RedHawks (32-25) 10-2. Jake Elmore went 2 for 5 and Brett Wallace went 3 for 4, but the RedHawks left 12 men on base in the game. Humber allowed just 2 earned runs in 4 2/3 innings of work, but hit two more batters giving him 6 hit batsmen in 12 innings since he was sent down. Kevin Chapman struck out the side while working a scoreless inning.
AA - Corpus Christi 9 Midland 5
Jake Buchanan improved to 7-0 on the year, but the bigger story was that he actually got scored on... TWICE. While just one of the runs was earned, Buchanan's ERA skyrocketed to... 0.85. The Hooks (36-21) got big offensive efforts from Ben Orloff (4/5), Jose Martinez (3/5, 3 RBI) and Domingo Santana (2/5, 2 RBI) in the win. Martinez is 10 for 14 for the Hooks since he was activated from the DL. Justin Maxwell started as the DH in his first rehab appearance since his injury. He went 0 for 3 with a strikeout, but stole a base and scored a run.
Advanced A - Stockton 4 Lancaster 2
For the second day in a row, the Ports handed the JetHawks (35-23) a 4-2 loss. Andrew Aplin and Chris Epps each had 2 hits, but all six RedHawks hits were singles and they never really got much going offensively. Aaron West allowed 3 runs in 5 innings to fall to 2-2 on the year. Michael Dimock added 1 2/3 innings of scoreless relief. Dimock did allow a hit which was the first he'd surrendered since his promotion to Lancaster. Opposing hitters are batting just .048 against him in the California League.
Dominican Summer League - DSL Astros 2 DSL Red Sox 0
Edwin Villarroel tossed 5 shutout innings, and Joselo Pinales and Harold Arauz combined for 4 shutout innings of relief as the DSL Astros 4-hit the DSL Red Sox 2-0. Arturo Michelena drove in a run on a groundout in the first and Hector Roa tripled and scored on a Jesus Bermejo single in the 7th, but that was more than enough for the Astros as they won their second straight.
Showing posts with label Brett Wallace. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Brett Wallace. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
Sunday, June 2, 2013
Down on the Farm - 6/1/13
AAA - Oklahoma City 13 Albuquerque 10
The RedHawks (31-23) rallied for 6 runs in the 9th as they won a high scoring affair against the Isotopes 13-10. Brandon Laird, Fernando Martinez and Che-Hsuan Lin all homered for Oklahoma City while Jake Elmore, Brett Wallace and Carlos Perez paced an 18-hit attack with 3 hits apiece. All 9 RedHawks starters had at least one hit and a run scored. Brett Oberholtzer started the game for Oklahoma City and failed to make it through 4 innings of work allowing 7 runs on 9 hits in 3 2/3. Alex Sogard ended up earning the win, his first since his promotion, and Jose Valdez got the final out for his 12th save.
Advanced A - Lancaster 12 Visalia 3
Joe Sclafani continued his torrid hitting as he reached base 4 times, homered, and drove in 3 runs in the JetHawks' (34-21) 12-3 win over the Rawhide. Preston Tucker added his 11th home run of the season and drove in three more runs, Chris Epps homered and drove in two, and Brandon Meredith had 3 hits as Lancaster's offense continues to crank out runs. Brady Rodgers pitched 4 scoreless innings of relief and earned the win to improve to 5-1 on the year.
Low A - Beloit 10 Quad Cities 3
Jonathan Singleton finally went a game without homering as the River Bandits (30-24) got beaten up by the Snappers 10-3. Rio Ruiz doubled, homered, and drove in all 3 River Bandits runs and was one of the few bright spots on the day. Singleton was 0 for 3, but did walk and score a run. Vincent Velasquez was roughed up in relief surrendering 5 runs on 7 hits in just 1 1/3 innings as the Snappers put the game out of reach late.
Dominican Summer League - DSL Mariners 6 DSL Astros 0
The DSL Astros (0-1) dropped their season opener to the DSL Mariners 6-0. The game was scoreless heading into the 7th when the Mariners finally broke through and proceeded to score in each of the game's final three innings. 18 year old Elieser Hernandez tossed 5 shutout innings and third baseman Randy Cesar went 2 for 4 to lead the offense.
The RedHawks (31-23) rallied for 6 runs in the 9th as they won a high scoring affair against the Isotopes 13-10. Brandon Laird, Fernando Martinez and Che-Hsuan Lin all homered for Oklahoma City while Jake Elmore, Brett Wallace and Carlos Perez paced an 18-hit attack with 3 hits apiece. All 9 RedHawks starters had at least one hit and a run scored. Brett Oberholtzer started the game for Oklahoma City and failed to make it through 4 innings of work allowing 7 runs on 9 hits in 3 2/3. Alex Sogard ended up earning the win, his first since his promotion, and Jose Valdez got the final out for his 12th save.
Advanced A - Lancaster 12 Visalia 3
Joe Sclafani continued his torrid hitting as he reached base 4 times, homered, and drove in 3 runs in the JetHawks' (34-21) 12-3 win over the Rawhide. Preston Tucker added his 11th home run of the season and drove in three more runs, Chris Epps homered and drove in two, and Brandon Meredith had 3 hits as Lancaster's offense continues to crank out runs. Brady Rodgers pitched 4 scoreless innings of relief and earned the win to improve to 5-1 on the year.
Low A - Beloit 10 Quad Cities 3
Jonathan Singleton finally went a game without homering as the River Bandits (30-24) got beaten up by the Snappers 10-3. Rio Ruiz doubled, homered, and drove in all 3 River Bandits runs and was one of the few bright spots on the day. Singleton was 0 for 3, but did walk and score a run. Vincent Velasquez was roughed up in relief surrendering 5 runs on 7 hits in just 1 1/3 innings as the Snappers put the game out of reach late.
Dominican Summer League - DSL Mariners 6 DSL Astros 0
The DSL Astros (0-1) dropped their season opener to the DSL Mariners 6-0. The game was scoreless heading into the 7th when the Mariners finally broke through and proceeded to score in each of the game's final three innings. 18 year old Elieser Hernandez tossed 5 shutout innings and third baseman Randy Cesar went 2 for 4 to lead the offense.
Friday, May 24, 2013
Down on the Farm - 5/23/13
AAA - Fresno 4 Oklahoma City 1
Jarred Cosart logged a quality start, but the RedHawks bats were silent as they fell to Fresno by a score of 4-1. Brett Wallace reached base 4 times (2 singles, 2 walks) and raised his average since his demotion to .319, and Austin Wates added a pair of doubles and drove in the only run for the RedHawks (27-19), but they were about the only bright spots on offense. Philip Humber made his second appearance for the RedHawks, but struggled to find the strike zone and walked 2 of the 4 hitters he faced and hit a third before getting relieved by Kevin Chapman.
AA - Corpus Christi 10 Northwest Arkansas 4
Bobby Doran improved his record to 6-1 as the Hooks (27-19) cruised to a 10-4 win over the Naturals. Jonathan Meyer homered and drove in 4 and Max Stassi hit a pair of doubles and drove in 3 to lead the 13-hit attack. Stassi has now hit in 9 straight and he's 13 for 34 during that stretch raising his average on the year to .306. Nick Tropeano pitched the final four innings to earn his 5th save of the season.
Advanced A - Lancaster 8 Inland Empire 7
In a sloppy game featuring 8 errors, 18 strikeouts and 3 wild pitches, the JetHawks (26-20) edged out the 66ers 8-7. Carlos Perdomo and Preston Tucker each drove in a pair of runs and 8 different JetHawks scored at least once in the win. Delino DeShields Jr. entered the game as a defensive substitution and added a pair of stolen bases. Theron Geith (5-0, 2.29) earned the win with a scoreless 8th inning and Travis Ballew closed it out with a scoreless 9th for his 8th save.
Low A - Wisconsin 7 Quad Cities 4
Quad Cities (23-22) didn't get a hit until Terrell Joyce's home run to lead off the 7th inning and their late rally came up short as they were defeated 7-4 by the Timber Rattlers. Roberto Pena added a 2-run double and Carlos Correa drew a pair of walks and scored a run in a losing effort. Vincent Velasquez worked the final 4 innings and allowed just one hit while fanning 8.
Jarred Cosart logged a quality start, but the RedHawks bats were silent as they fell to Fresno by a score of 4-1. Brett Wallace reached base 4 times (2 singles, 2 walks) and raised his average since his demotion to .319, and Austin Wates added a pair of doubles and drove in the only run for the RedHawks (27-19), but they were about the only bright spots on offense. Philip Humber made his second appearance for the RedHawks, but struggled to find the strike zone and walked 2 of the 4 hitters he faced and hit a third before getting relieved by Kevin Chapman.
AA - Corpus Christi 10 Northwest Arkansas 4
Bobby Doran improved his record to 6-1 as the Hooks (27-19) cruised to a 10-4 win over the Naturals. Jonathan Meyer homered and drove in 4 and Max Stassi hit a pair of doubles and drove in 3 to lead the 13-hit attack. Stassi has now hit in 9 straight and he's 13 for 34 during that stretch raising his average on the year to .306. Nick Tropeano pitched the final four innings to earn his 5th save of the season.
Advanced A - Lancaster 8 Inland Empire 7
In a sloppy game featuring 8 errors, 18 strikeouts and 3 wild pitches, the JetHawks (26-20) edged out the 66ers 8-7. Carlos Perdomo and Preston Tucker each drove in a pair of runs and 8 different JetHawks scored at least once in the win. Delino DeShields Jr. entered the game as a defensive substitution and added a pair of stolen bases. Theron Geith (5-0, 2.29) earned the win with a scoreless 8th inning and Travis Ballew closed it out with a scoreless 9th for his 8th save.
Low A - Wisconsin 7 Quad Cities 4
Quad Cities (23-22) didn't get a hit until Terrell Joyce's home run to lead off the 7th inning and their late rally came up short as they were defeated 7-4 by the Timber Rattlers. Roberto Pena added a 2-run double and Carlos Correa drew a pair of walks and scored a run in a losing effort. Vincent Velasquez worked the final 4 innings and allowed just one hit while fanning 8.
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Down on the Farm - 5/22/13
AAA - Oklahoma City 7 Fresno 3
Ross Seaton (1-4, 8.21) finally got his first win of the season as the RedHawks (27-18) defeated the Grizzles 7-3. Fernando Martinez hit a three run homer, Jake Elmore homered and drove in a pair, and Brett Wallace reached base 4 times (2 singles, 2 walks) as the RedHawks offense overcame three errors by their defense en route to the win. Jason Stoffel pitched 2 scoreless innings and fanned three lowering his ERA since his promotion to AAA to 2.08. He's allowed just 7 hits in 13 innings with the RedHawks and is holding hitters to a .156 average.
AA Corpus Christi 8 Northwest Arkansas 2
Jake Buchanan allowed one unearned run in five innings lowering his ERA to 0.84 and improving his record to 5-0 as the Hooks (26-19) defeated the Naturals 8-2. Domingo Santana, Erik Castro and Michael Burgess all drove in a pair of runs as the Hooks scored in every inning from the 2nd to the 5th to erase an early 1-0 deficit. Over his past ten games, Castro is 18 for 39 with 5 doubles, 2 homers and 10 runs batted in. Josh Fields made his sixth rehab appearance, and fourth for Corpus Christi, and allowed his first run of the year in 2 innings of work.
Low A - Wisconsin 12 Quad Cities 5 (11 innings)
The River Bandits (23-21) rallied from a 5-0 deficit to send the game into extra innings, but the Timber Rattlers scored 7 times in the 11th to win 12-5. Austin Elkins hit his first home run of the year, and Jordan Scott, Carlos Correa and Miles Hamblin all had multi-hit games for the River Bandits. Jordan Jankowski started the game on the mound and fanned 6 in 4 innings of work, and did not walk a batter.
Ross Seaton (1-4, 8.21) finally got his first win of the season as the RedHawks (27-18) defeated the Grizzles 7-3. Fernando Martinez hit a three run homer, Jake Elmore homered and drove in a pair, and Brett Wallace reached base 4 times (2 singles, 2 walks) as the RedHawks offense overcame three errors by their defense en route to the win. Jason Stoffel pitched 2 scoreless innings and fanned three lowering his ERA since his promotion to AAA to 2.08. He's allowed just 7 hits in 13 innings with the RedHawks and is holding hitters to a .156 average.
AA Corpus Christi 8 Northwest Arkansas 2
Jake Buchanan allowed one unearned run in five innings lowering his ERA to 0.84 and improving his record to 5-0 as the Hooks (26-19) defeated the Naturals 8-2. Domingo Santana, Erik Castro and Michael Burgess all drove in a pair of runs as the Hooks scored in every inning from the 2nd to the 5th to erase an early 1-0 deficit. Over his past ten games, Castro is 18 for 39 with 5 doubles, 2 homers and 10 runs batted in. Josh Fields made his sixth rehab appearance, and fourth for Corpus Christi, and allowed his first run of the year in 2 innings of work.
Low A - Wisconsin 12 Quad Cities 5 (11 innings)
The River Bandits (23-21) rallied from a 5-0 deficit to send the game into extra innings, but the Timber Rattlers scored 7 times in the 11th to win 12-5. Austin Elkins hit his first home run of the year, and Jordan Scott, Carlos Correa and Miles Hamblin all had multi-hit games for the River Bandits. Jordan Jankowski started the game on the mound and fanned 6 in 4 innings of work, and did not walk a batter.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Down on the Farm - 5/21/13
AAA - Oklahoma City 15 Fresno 2
Brett Oberholtzer (3-3, 4.74) fanned 9 in 7 shutout innings and the RedHawks (26-18) scored 10 times in the 8th as they cruised to a 15-2 win over the Grizzlies. Marc Krauss, Fernando Martinez and Brett Wallace all homered and Wallace drove in 5 runs. Brandon Laird added 3 hits including a double to back the solid outing from Oberholtzer.
Advanced A - Lancaster 13 Rancho Cucamonga 12
Preston Tucker's bases loaded, 1-out single scored Carlos Perdomo as the JetHawks (25-20) walked off with a 13-12 win over Rancho Cucamonga. Andrew Aplin homered and drove in 4 runs, Tucker finished with 4 hits, Joe Sclafani went 3 for 5 to raise his average to .405 since his promotion, and Chris Epps had 2 doubles and 3 rbis as the JetHawks banged out 19 hits in their win. Travis Ballew pitched a 1-2-3 9th inning with a pair of strikeouts to earn his second win of the season.
Brett Oberholtzer (3-3, 4.74) fanned 9 in 7 shutout innings and the RedHawks (26-18) scored 10 times in the 8th as they cruised to a 15-2 win over the Grizzlies. Marc Krauss, Fernando Martinez and Brett Wallace all homered and Wallace drove in 5 runs. Brandon Laird added 3 hits including a double to back the solid outing from Oberholtzer.
Advanced A - Lancaster 13 Rancho Cucamonga 12
Preston Tucker's bases loaded, 1-out single scored Carlos Perdomo as the JetHawks (25-20) walked off with a 13-12 win over Rancho Cucamonga. Andrew Aplin homered and drove in 4 runs, Tucker finished with 4 hits, Joe Sclafani went 3 for 5 to raise his average to .405 since his promotion, and Chris Epps had 2 doubles and 3 rbis as the JetHawks banged out 19 hits in their win. Travis Ballew pitched a 1-2-3 9th inning with a pair of strikeouts to earn his second win of the season.
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Down on the Farm - 5/18/13
AAA - Sacramento 6 Oklahoma City 3
Jarred Cosart cruised through 4 shutout innings, but couldn't get out of the 5th as the River Cats exploded for 6 runs en route to a 6-3 win. Cosart finished with 4 1/3 innings allowing 3 runs on 4 hits and 3 walks and threw 96 pitches for Oklahoma City (24-17). The loss was Cosart's first of the season. Brett Wallace accounted for all of the RedHawks offense going 2 for 4 with a double, and a three-run homer, his sixth. Fernando Martinez added 2 hits for Oklahoma City.
AA - Midland 12 Corpus Christi 4
Midland's Anthony Aliotti homered three times off of three different Hooks pitchers as Midland buried Corpus Christi (24-18) by a score of 12-4. Nick Tropeano (0-3, 3.50) was roughed up for 7 earned runs in 3 2/3 innings as Midland led 9-1 after four. Domingo Santana and Enrique Hernandez each had 3 hits and a double in a losing effort.
Advanced A - Visalia 8 Lancaster 4
Thomas Shirley fanned a season-high 9 in 4 innings of work, but the bullpen surrendered 6 runs late as the JetHawks (24-18) fell to the Rawhide 8-4. Lancaster made 3 errors and managed just 4 hits in the loss. Brandon Meredith drove in all four Lancaster runs on a sacrifice fly and a 3-run home run. MP Cokinos doubled and drew a pair of walks raising his average on the year to .360.
Low A - Beloit 5 Quad Cities 3
Quad Cities (23-18) took a 3-0 lead into the 8th, but the Snappers got to the River Bandits bullpen for 5 runs as Quad Cities wound up on the losing end of a 5-3 affair. Vincent Velasquez tossed 5 shutout innings, but John Neely was unable to close out the game suffering his first blown save of the year. Carlos Correa singled and walked extending his hitting streak to 9 games.
Jarred Cosart cruised through 4 shutout innings, but couldn't get out of the 5th as the River Cats exploded for 6 runs en route to a 6-3 win. Cosart finished with 4 1/3 innings allowing 3 runs on 4 hits and 3 walks and threw 96 pitches for Oklahoma City (24-17). The loss was Cosart's first of the season. Brett Wallace accounted for all of the RedHawks offense going 2 for 4 with a double, and a three-run homer, his sixth. Fernando Martinez added 2 hits for Oklahoma City.
AA - Midland 12 Corpus Christi 4
Midland's Anthony Aliotti homered three times off of three different Hooks pitchers as Midland buried Corpus Christi (24-18) by a score of 12-4. Nick Tropeano (0-3, 3.50) was roughed up for 7 earned runs in 3 2/3 innings as Midland led 9-1 after four. Domingo Santana and Enrique Hernandez each had 3 hits and a double in a losing effort.
Advanced A - Visalia 8 Lancaster 4
Thomas Shirley fanned a season-high 9 in 4 innings of work, but the bullpen surrendered 6 runs late as the JetHawks (24-18) fell to the Rawhide 8-4. Lancaster made 3 errors and managed just 4 hits in the loss. Brandon Meredith drove in all four Lancaster runs on a sacrifice fly and a 3-run home run. MP Cokinos doubled and drew a pair of walks raising his average on the year to .360.
Low A - Beloit 5 Quad Cities 3
Quad Cities (23-18) took a 3-0 lead into the 8th, but the Snappers got to the River Bandits bullpen for 5 runs as Quad Cities wound up on the losing end of a 5-3 affair. Vincent Velasquez tossed 5 shutout innings, but John Neely was unable to close out the game suffering his first blown save of the year. Carlos Correa singled and walked extending his hitting streak to 9 games.
Friday, May 17, 2013
Down on the Farm - 5/16/13
AAA - Oklahoma City 7 Sacramento 2
Andrew Simunic's bases loaded bloop double in the top of the 7th put the RedHawks (24-15) ahead for good as they rallied from a 2-1 deficit to defeat the River Cats 7-2. Brett Wallace added a pair of rbis, and Jonathan Villar and Austin Wates both added two hits as every RedHawk starter had a hit in the game. Relievers Alex Sogard, Josh Zeid, Rhiner Cruz and Eric Berger combined to throw 4 2/3 shutout innings to set up the late rally.
AA - San Antonio 6 Corpus Christi 2
Rene Garcia hit his 2nd home run of the season and Jiovanni Mier took another step closer to the Mendoza Line with a pair of doubles, but the Hooks (23-17) still fell short against the Missions, losing 6-2. Ruben Alaniz (0-5, 5.45) pitched well allowing just 2 runs in 4 2/3 innings while fanning 5, but the offense just couldn't get things going. Josh Fields made his first rehab appearance for Corpus Christi after appearing in two games for Quad Cities and threw another scoreless inning. Fields has now tossed 5 scoreless innings during his rehab.
Advanced A - Visalia 6 Lancaster 5
The Rawhide scored twice in the bottom of the 7th against Tyson Perez (1-2, 6.62) and edged out the JetHawks (23-17) in a back-and-forth affair, 6-5. Matt Duffy led the JetHawks offense with 3 hits and 3 rbi, and Joe Sclafani, Andrew Aplin and Tyler Heineman all had multi-hit games for Lancaster. Aplin, the JetHawks starting centerfielder, also picked up a pair of outfield assists. Theron Geith tossed two scoreless innings in relief to lower his ERA on the year to 1.29. After allowing two runs in his first appearance of the season, Geith has rattled off 11 straight scoreless appearances. Delino DeShields Jr went 0 for 5 and struck out 4 times.
Low A - Quad Cities 3 Wisconsin 1
Colton Cain worked 4 1/3 solid innings and Mike Hauschild tossed 3 2/3 scoreless innings of relief as the River Bandits (23-16) defeated the Timber Rattlers 3-1. The Bandits pushed 3 runs across in the 5th thanks to an error, a Carlos Correa rbi groundout and a Miles Hamblin single, and that was all the offense Quad Cities would need. Correa also added a single of his own to extend his hitting streak to 7 games and Ariel Ovando added a pair of hits to lead the offense. John Neely pitched a scoreless 9th for his 7th save.
Andrew Simunic's bases loaded bloop double in the top of the 7th put the RedHawks (24-15) ahead for good as they rallied from a 2-1 deficit to defeat the River Cats 7-2. Brett Wallace added a pair of rbis, and Jonathan Villar and Austin Wates both added two hits as every RedHawk starter had a hit in the game. Relievers Alex Sogard, Josh Zeid, Rhiner Cruz and Eric Berger combined to throw 4 2/3 shutout innings to set up the late rally.
AA - San Antonio 6 Corpus Christi 2
Rene Garcia hit his 2nd home run of the season and Jiovanni Mier took another step closer to the Mendoza Line with a pair of doubles, but the Hooks (23-17) still fell short against the Missions, losing 6-2. Ruben Alaniz (0-5, 5.45) pitched well allowing just 2 runs in 4 2/3 innings while fanning 5, but the offense just couldn't get things going. Josh Fields made his first rehab appearance for Corpus Christi after appearing in two games for Quad Cities and threw another scoreless inning. Fields has now tossed 5 scoreless innings during his rehab.
Advanced A - Visalia 6 Lancaster 5
The Rawhide scored twice in the bottom of the 7th against Tyson Perez (1-2, 6.62) and edged out the JetHawks (23-17) in a back-and-forth affair, 6-5. Matt Duffy led the JetHawks offense with 3 hits and 3 rbi, and Joe Sclafani, Andrew Aplin and Tyler Heineman all had multi-hit games for Lancaster. Aplin, the JetHawks starting centerfielder, also picked up a pair of outfield assists. Theron Geith tossed two scoreless innings in relief to lower his ERA on the year to 1.29. After allowing two runs in his first appearance of the season, Geith has rattled off 11 straight scoreless appearances. Delino DeShields Jr went 0 for 5 and struck out 4 times.
Low A - Quad Cities 3 Wisconsin 1
Colton Cain worked 4 1/3 solid innings and Mike Hauschild tossed 3 2/3 scoreless innings of relief as the River Bandits (23-16) defeated the Timber Rattlers 3-1. The Bandits pushed 3 runs across in the 5th thanks to an error, a Carlos Correa rbi groundout and a Miles Hamblin single, and that was all the offense Quad Cities would need. Correa also added a single of his own to extend his hitting streak to 7 games and Ariel Ovando added a pair of hits to lead the offense. John Neely pitched a scoreless 9th for his 7th save.
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Down on the Farm - 5/13/13
AAA - Salt Lake 3 Oklahoma City 2
Brad Peacock fanned 9 hitters in 5 innings of work, and Jonathan Villar missed the cycle by a home run, but the RedHawks (22-15) fell to the Bees, 3-2. Brett Wallace was 2 for 5 and drove in both RedHawk runs to lead the offense, but it wasn't enough to back Peacock who lost despite only allowing 2 runs. Peacock, making his second start since his demotion, needed 99 pitches to get through 5 innings.
AA - Corpus Christi 13 San Antonio 3
Michael Burgess entered yesterday's game hitting .174 with 8 runs batted in in 29 games. When the dust finally cleared, he'd doubled his rbi total on the year going 3 for 5 with a double and a pair of home runs, and 8 more runs batted in as Corpus Christi (22-15) routed the Missions 13-3. George Springer added home run number 13 on the year, and Jonathan Meyer was 4 for 5 with 4 runs scored an a home run of his home to lead the 15-hit attack for the Hooks. On the mound, Jake Buchanan (3-0) threw 4 scoreless innings in relief allowing just 1 hit and lowering his ERA on the year to 1.04 in 43 1/3 innings. He's walked just 2 hitters this season.
Advanced A - Lancaster 6 Stockton 3
The JetHawks (23-15) rode a 6 run 4th to a 6-3 win over the Ports behind the bat of Brandon Meredith and the pitching of Blair Walters. Meredith hit his first home run of the season and drove in a pair, and Walters didn't allow an earned run in 4 innings of work to lead the way for Lancaster. Delino DeShields Jr. went 2 for 4, but was caught stealing for the 7th time this year when he was picked off of first base by Deyvi Jimenez. DeShields is just 5 for 12 stealing bases this year after stealing 101 bases in 135 games last year. Travis Ballew earned his 6th save of the season by getting the final four outs.
Low A - Quad Cities 8 Peoria 0
Big innings were the theme yesterday as the River Bandits (21-15) scored 8 times in the 4th en route to an 8-0 win over the Chiefs. Jordan Jankowski (2-0, 2.87) threw 5 shutout innings and was followed by another solid rehab appearance from Josh Fields who threw 2 scoreless innings of his own. Rio Ruiz went 3 for 4 with a double, and Carlos Correa went 2 for 4 to raise his average to .238, while Austin Elkins and Jobduan Morales each drove in a pair of runs to lead the offense.
Brad Peacock fanned 9 hitters in 5 innings of work, and Jonathan Villar missed the cycle by a home run, but the RedHawks (22-15) fell to the Bees, 3-2. Brett Wallace was 2 for 5 and drove in both RedHawk runs to lead the offense, but it wasn't enough to back Peacock who lost despite only allowing 2 runs. Peacock, making his second start since his demotion, needed 99 pitches to get through 5 innings.
AA - Corpus Christi 13 San Antonio 3
Michael Burgess entered yesterday's game hitting .174 with 8 runs batted in in 29 games. When the dust finally cleared, he'd doubled his rbi total on the year going 3 for 5 with a double and a pair of home runs, and 8 more runs batted in as Corpus Christi (22-15) routed the Missions 13-3. George Springer added home run number 13 on the year, and Jonathan Meyer was 4 for 5 with 4 runs scored an a home run of his home to lead the 15-hit attack for the Hooks. On the mound, Jake Buchanan (3-0) threw 4 scoreless innings in relief allowing just 1 hit and lowering his ERA on the year to 1.04 in 43 1/3 innings. He's walked just 2 hitters this season.
Advanced A - Lancaster 6 Stockton 3
The JetHawks (23-15) rode a 6 run 4th to a 6-3 win over the Ports behind the bat of Brandon Meredith and the pitching of Blair Walters. Meredith hit his first home run of the season and drove in a pair, and Walters didn't allow an earned run in 4 innings of work to lead the way for Lancaster. Delino DeShields Jr. went 2 for 4, but was caught stealing for the 7th time this year when he was picked off of first base by Deyvi Jimenez. DeShields is just 5 for 12 stealing bases this year after stealing 101 bases in 135 games last year. Travis Ballew earned his 6th save of the season by getting the final four outs.
Low A - Quad Cities 8 Peoria 0
Big innings were the theme yesterday as the River Bandits (21-15) scored 8 times in the 4th en route to an 8-0 win over the Chiefs. Jordan Jankowski (2-0, 2.87) threw 5 shutout innings and was followed by another solid rehab appearance from Josh Fields who threw 2 scoreless innings of his own. Rio Ruiz went 3 for 4 with a double, and Carlos Correa went 2 for 4 to raise his average to .238, while Austin Elkins and Jobduan Morales each drove in a pair of runs to lead the offense.
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Down on the Farm - 5/10/13
AAA - Oklahoma City 1 Tacoma 0
Brett Oberholtzer (2-3, 6.08) allowed just 1 hit in 5 2/3 shutout innings, fanning 9 and combined with 4 relievers on a 4-hit shutout as the RedHawks (22-12) defeated the Rainiers 1-0. Brett Wallace tripled and scored the game's only run on Brandon Laird's rbi double in the 4th and the RedHawks pitching staff took care of the rest. Jose Valdez earned his 9th save of the season by pitching a scoreless 9th.
AA - Corpus Christi 9 Frisco 4
Bobby Doran improved to 5-0 on the year and Domingo Santana bashed 3 home runs and drove in 5 as the Hooks (20-14) defeated the RoughRiders 9-4. Santana homered in the 1st, 3rd and 7th innings to back a solid start from Nick Tropeano who allowed just an unearned run on two hits in 4 innings. Drew Muren and Rene Garcia each added a pair of hits, and Jiovanni Mier and Zach Johnson both homered as well. Johnson's home run was his first since his promotion to AA.
Advanced A - Lancaster 19 Stockton 13
The JetHawks (20-15) finished with 16 hits and 11 walks as pitching was nowhere to be found in a wild 19-13 affair. Every JetHawks starter except Nolan Fontana had at least 1 hit, and Fontana managed to draw 3 walks. Telvin Nash was the hero on a day of offensive heroes as he homered twice and drove in 7 runs. Andrew Aplin added 4 rbis, MP Cokinos and Chris Epps each drove in 3, and Matt Duffy added his 5th home run of the year.
Low A - Cedar Rapids 2 Quad Cities 0 (Game 1, 11 innings)
Josh Fields started his rehab going 2 scoreless innings and fanning 3, but the River Bandits (19-12) lost to the Kernels 2-0 in 11. Quad Cities managed just 6 hits in the game, 3 of them by left fielder Jordan Scott. Jamaine Cotton made his 2013 debut with 4 scoreless innings in relief of Fields and Carlos Correa returned to the Bandits lineup but went 0 for 3 with a walk.
Low A - Cedar Rapids 5 Quad Cities 1 (Game 2)
The River Bandits (19-13) capped off a frustrating double header with a 5-1 loss at the hands of the Kernels. Vincent Velasquez struck out 9, but allowed 5 runs on 9 hits in 4 2/3 inninngs. Roberto Pena scored the Bandits only run of the game in the the inning on a Jordan Scott sacrifice fly.
Brett Oberholtzer (2-3, 6.08) allowed just 1 hit in 5 2/3 shutout innings, fanning 9 and combined with 4 relievers on a 4-hit shutout as the RedHawks (22-12) defeated the Rainiers 1-0. Brett Wallace tripled and scored the game's only run on Brandon Laird's rbi double in the 4th and the RedHawks pitching staff took care of the rest. Jose Valdez earned his 9th save of the season by pitching a scoreless 9th.
AA - Corpus Christi 9 Frisco 4
Bobby Doran improved to 5-0 on the year and Domingo Santana bashed 3 home runs and drove in 5 as the Hooks (20-14) defeated the RoughRiders 9-4. Santana homered in the 1st, 3rd and 7th innings to back a solid start from Nick Tropeano who allowed just an unearned run on two hits in 4 innings. Drew Muren and Rene Garcia each added a pair of hits, and Jiovanni Mier and Zach Johnson both homered as well. Johnson's home run was his first since his promotion to AA.
Advanced A - Lancaster 19 Stockton 13
The JetHawks (20-15) finished with 16 hits and 11 walks as pitching was nowhere to be found in a wild 19-13 affair. Every JetHawks starter except Nolan Fontana had at least 1 hit, and Fontana managed to draw 3 walks. Telvin Nash was the hero on a day of offensive heroes as he homered twice and drove in 7 runs. Andrew Aplin added 4 rbis, MP Cokinos and Chris Epps each drove in 3, and Matt Duffy added his 5th home run of the year.
Low A - Cedar Rapids 2 Quad Cities 0 (Game 1, 11 innings)
Josh Fields started his rehab going 2 scoreless innings and fanning 3, but the River Bandits (19-12) lost to the Kernels 2-0 in 11. Quad Cities managed just 6 hits in the game, 3 of them by left fielder Jordan Scott. Jamaine Cotton made his 2013 debut with 4 scoreless innings in relief of Fields and Carlos Correa returned to the Bandits lineup but went 0 for 3 with a walk.
Low A - Cedar Rapids 5 Quad Cities 1 (Game 2)
The River Bandits (19-13) capped off a frustrating double header with a 5-1 loss at the hands of the Kernels. Vincent Velasquez struck out 9, but allowed 5 runs on 9 hits in 4 2/3 inninngs. Roberto Pena scored the Bandits only run of the game in the the inning on a Jordan Scott sacrifice fly.
Friday, May 10, 2013
Down on the Farm - 5/8/13 and 5/9/13
Wednesday
AAA - Oklahoma City 7 Tacoma 6 (10 innings)
Jonathan Villar's 2-out grand slam capped a 6-run 9th for the RedHawks and sent the game into extra innings where Brandon Laird scored on an error in the 10th to give Oklahoma City (20-12) an improbable 7-6 win. Brad Peacock made his RedHawks debut and made it through 6 innings allowing 4 runs on 6 hits, fanning 5 while not walking a batter. He threw 104 pitches. Marc Krauss reached base 4 times to lead the offense, but Brett Wallace had his hitting streak snapped going 0 for 5 with 3 strikeouts. Jason Stoffel earned the win in relief.
Advanced A - Lake Elsinore 7 Lancaster 4 (Game 1)
MP Cokinos hit a pair of doubles, but didn't get much help as the Storm beat up the JetHawks (18-14) by a score of 7-2. Andrew Aplin and Preston Tucker drove in runs, but Luis Cruz allowed 5 runs in just 4 1/3 innings as the Storm never trailed in winning Game 1 of their doubleheader.
Advanced A - Lake Elsinore 4 Lancaster 2 (Game 2)
The Storm completed their doubleheader sweep of the JetHawks (18-15) with a 4-2 win in the nightcap. The JetHawks overcame an early 2-0 deficit behind rbis from Preston Tucker and Matt Duffy, but Lake Elsinore came right back against Thomas Shirley (0-3). Tucker had 2 of Lancaster's 5 hits to lead the offense and Kenny Long threw another scoreless inning out of the pen.
Low A - Quad Cities 4 Cedar Rapids 2
The River Bandits (19-11) got another stellar pitching performance from Brian Holmes, who fanned 8 in 4 2/3 shutout innings, and rode it to a 4-2 win over the Kernels. Teoscar Hernandez hit his second home run of the season and Brian Blasik had 3 of the Bandits' 5 hits en route to the win. John Neely pitched the 9th for his 6th save of the season.
Thursday
AAA - Oklahoma City 3 Tacoma 1
Asher Wojciechowski continued his dominant run through the minors in 2013 tossing 6 shutout innings in his second AAA start to lead the RedHawks (21-12) to a 3-1 win over the Rainiers. Rhiner Cruz followed Wojo with 2 scoreless innings of his own as he continues to pitch well since his demotion and Jose Valdez pitched the 9th for his 8th save. Brett Wallace went 2 for 3 with a double and a run batted in to lead the offense and Jonathan Villar added a pair of hits and stole two more bases giving him 12 on the year.
AA - Frisco 6 Corpus Christi 4
Jake Buchanan tossed 5 scoreless innings to lower his ERA on the season to 1.14, but the bullpen couldn't keep the RoughRiders at bay and the Hooks (19-14) fell 6-4. In 9 appearances spanning 39 1/3 innings this year, opposing hitters are batting just .165 against Buchanan and he's only walked two hitters. The Hooks managed just 5 hits in the game including Erik Castro's 2nd home run of the season.
Advanced A - Lancaster 10 Lake Elsinore 4
The JetHawks (19-15) bounced back after getting swept in Wednesday's doubleheader defeating the Storm 10-4. Andrew Aplin had 3 hits, Telvin Nash and Chris Epps both homered, and MP Cokinos added a pair of rbis to lead the offensive barrage. Theron Geith (3-0) earned the win in relief as he lowered his ERA on the year to 1.69.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Down on the Farm - 5/7/13
AAA - Oklahoma City 6 Tacoma 1
Jarred Cosart was absolutely dominant fanning 10 in 5 2/3 innings as the RedHawks (19-12) defeated the Rainiers 6-1. Brett Wallace went 2 for 4 with a homer and 3 rbis to extend his hitting streak to 8 games, and Marc Krauss crushed his team-high 7th home run to lead the offense. Jake Elmore added 3 hits, needing just a home run to hit for the cycle and Che-Hsuan Lin was 2 for 3 with a stolen base. Rhiner Cruz made his second appearance for the RedHawks throwing a perfect 8th inning and striking out one.
AA - San Antonio 10 Corpus Christi 5
Matt Heidenreich couldn't hold a 4-0 lead as he surrendered 6 runs in just 1 1/3 innings and the Hooks (19-13) got beaten up by the Missions 10-5. Enrique Hernandez and Jonathan Meyer each drove in a pair of runs, and George Springer was 1 for 3 with a pair of stolen bases in a losing effort.
Advanced A - Lake Elsinore 8 Lancaster 5
The JetHawks (18-13) came up on the short end of the stick in a back-and-forth affair as they were defeated by the Storm 8-5. Andrew Aplin homered, and Tyler Heineman was 2 for 5 with a double, but it wasn't enough as a pair of Carlos Perdomo errors and a passed ball led to 5 unearned runs. David Rollins started and fanned 6 in 5 innings but didn't factor in the decision.
Jarred Cosart was absolutely dominant fanning 10 in 5 2/3 innings as the RedHawks (19-12) defeated the Rainiers 6-1. Brett Wallace went 2 for 4 with a homer and 3 rbis to extend his hitting streak to 8 games, and Marc Krauss crushed his team-high 7th home run to lead the offense. Jake Elmore added 3 hits, needing just a home run to hit for the cycle and Che-Hsuan Lin was 2 for 3 with a stolen base. Rhiner Cruz made his second appearance for the RedHawks throwing a perfect 8th inning and striking out one.
AA - San Antonio 10 Corpus Christi 5
Matt Heidenreich couldn't hold a 4-0 lead as he surrendered 6 runs in just 1 1/3 innings and the Hooks (19-13) got beaten up by the Missions 10-5. Enrique Hernandez and Jonathan Meyer each drove in a pair of runs, and George Springer was 1 for 3 with a pair of stolen bases in a losing effort.
Advanced A - Lake Elsinore 8 Lancaster 5
The JetHawks (18-13) came up on the short end of the stick in a back-and-forth affair as they were defeated by the Storm 8-5. Andrew Aplin homered, and Tyler Heineman was 2 for 5 with a double, but it wasn't enough as a pair of Carlos Perdomo errors and a passed ball led to 5 unearned runs. David Rollins started and fanned 6 in 5 innings but didn't factor in the decision.
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Farm Report - 5/5/13
AAA - Iowa 5 Oklahoma City 2 (Game 1)
Brian Bogusevic has 2 doubles and Edwin Maysonet was 1 for 2 with a walk... Wait, those guys don't play for us any more... Trevor Crowe had 2 hits, and Carlos Perez hit his first home run as a member of the RedHawks, but OKC (17-11) came up short in Game 1 and had their 7 game winning streak snapped. Brett Oberholtzer started and took the loss for the RedHawks, but Rhiner Cruz threw 1 1/3 scoreless innings in his first appearance since his demotion.
Oklahoma City 4 Iowa 3 (Game 2, 10 innings)
Brett Wallace slugged a pair of home runs, but Che-Husan Lin played the hero when he delivered a 2-out rbi single in the top of the 10th to score the winning run. The RedHawks (17-12) has a chance to win the game in the 9th, but Jose Valdez issued three straight two-out walks, the last of which forced in the tying run before working his way out of the jam. Kyle Hallock tossed 4 solid innings in his first start of the year, and Eric Berger earned his first save of the year by throwing a scoreless 10th.
AA - Corpus Christi 7 San Antonio 3
J.D. Martinez homered and drove in 4 and George Springer hit his 10th home run of the year and stole two bases as the Hooks (18-12) beat up on the Missions 7-3. Jiovanni Mier also added a home run as starting pitcher Bobby Doran got more than enough support to win his 4th game of the year. Nick Tropeano added 4 solid innings in relief to close the game out and earn his 4th save of the season.
Advanced A - Lancaster 4 High Desert 1
The JetHawks scored 4 times in the 7th inning highlighted by an MP Cokinos 2-run homer as Lancaster (17-12) defeated High Desert 4-1. Nolan Fontana, Telvin Nash, and Tyler Heineman all had multi-hit games, and Blair Walters and Aaron West combined on a 5-hitter. West earned the win, his first of the year, with 4 scoreless innings in relief.
Low A - Quad Cities 5 West Michigan 4
Lance McCullers Jr. was denied his first win of the season despite 5 shutout innings in which he fanned 9 when the bullpen couldn't hold leads of 3-0 and 4-1. The River Bandits (17-11) did rally though giving Michael Dimock his 4th win of the year in relief, defeating the Whitecaps 5-4. Teoscar Hernandez led the offense with 2 hits and a pair of runs while Jesse Wierzbicki added 4 walks. McCullers (0-3) now has a 1.69 ERA over 7 appearances. John Neely got the final out for his 5th save.
Brian Bogusevic has 2 doubles and Edwin Maysonet was 1 for 2 with a walk... Wait, those guys don't play for us any more... Trevor Crowe had 2 hits, and Carlos Perez hit his first home run as a member of the RedHawks, but OKC (17-11) came up short in Game 1 and had their 7 game winning streak snapped. Brett Oberholtzer started and took the loss for the RedHawks, but Rhiner Cruz threw 1 1/3 scoreless innings in his first appearance since his demotion.
Oklahoma City 4 Iowa 3 (Game 2, 10 innings)
Brett Wallace slugged a pair of home runs, but Che-Husan Lin played the hero when he delivered a 2-out rbi single in the top of the 10th to score the winning run. The RedHawks (17-12) has a chance to win the game in the 9th, but Jose Valdez issued three straight two-out walks, the last of which forced in the tying run before working his way out of the jam. Kyle Hallock tossed 4 solid innings in his first start of the year, and Eric Berger earned his first save of the year by throwing a scoreless 10th.
AA - Corpus Christi 7 San Antonio 3
J.D. Martinez homered and drove in 4 and George Springer hit his 10th home run of the year and stole two bases as the Hooks (18-12) beat up on the Missions 7-3. Jiovanni Mier also added a home run as starting pitcher Bobby Doran got more than enough support to win his 4th game of the year. Nick Tropeano added 4 solid innings in relief to close the game out and earn his 4th save of the season.
Advanced A - Lancaster 4 High Desert 1
The JetHawks scored 4 times in the 7th inning highlighted by an MP Cokinos 2-run homer as Lancaster (17-12) defeated High Desert 4-1. Nolan Fontana, Telvin Nash, and Tyler Heineman all had multi-hit games, and Blair Walters and Aaron West combined on a 5-hitter. West earned the win, his first of the year, with 4 scoreless innings in relief.
Low A - Quad Cities 5 West Michigan 4
Lance McCullers Jr. was denied his first win of the season despite 5 shutout innings in which he fanned 9 when the bullpen couldn't hold leads of 3-0 and 4-1. The River Bandits (17-11) did rally though giving Michael Dimock his 4th win of the year in relief, defeating the Whitecaps 5-4. Teoscar Hernandez led the offense with 2 hits and a pair of runs while Jesse Wierzbicki added 4 walks. McCullers (0-3) now has a 1.69 ERA over 7 appearances. John Neely got the final out for his 5th save.
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Down on the Farm - 5/1/13
AAA - Oklahoma City 6 Nashville 2
Brett Wallace was 2 for 4 with a double and a pair of rbis as the RedHawks (16-10) defeated the Sounds 6-2. Trevor Crowe, Jake Elmore and Andrew Simunic all had multi-hit games as well for Oklahoma City while Crowe stole his 10th base on the young season. On the mound, the RedHawks got a quality start from Wes Musick who allowed just a run on two hits in 6 innings. Jason Stoffel, fresh up from Corpus Christi, made his AAA debut by allowing a run in the 9th.
AA - Corpus Christi 3 Midland 2 (11 innings)
The Hooks (15-11) scored in the bottom of the 10th to tie the game, and in the bottom of the 11th to win an extra inning affair thanks to a walkoff single from Ben Orloff. Orloff, who didn't start, was one of three Hooks players with 2 hits in the game. The others were first baseman Erik Castro and rehabber J.D. Martinez. Nick Tropeano started and threw 4 scoreless innings for the Hooks to lower his ERA on the year to 1.86. Bobby Doran and Pat Urckfitz each threw 3 solid innings in relief allowing a run apiece, and Andrew Robinson earned his first win of the year by pitching a scoreless 11th.
Advanced A - Lancaster 5 Inland Empire 3
Andrew Aplin reached base 4 times and drove in 3 runs to lead the JetHawks (15-10) to a 5-3 win over the 66ers. Mike Foltynewicz started for the JetHawks and allowed just 1 run in 4 innings while fanning 6. The hard throwing prospect was promoted to AA Corpus Christi after the game. Blair Walters earned his 3rd win of the year in relief and Kenny Long got the final six outs for his second save.
Low A - South Bend 4 Quad Cities 3
The River Bandits (15-9) squandered an early 3-0 lead and lost of a tough one to the Silver Hawks 4-3. Catcher Roberto Pena stayed red hot with 2 more hits raising his average on the year to .375 in a losing effort, while Joe Sclafani and Terrell Joyce each added two hits of their own. Lance McCullers was the hard luck loser in this one again falling victim to unearned runs and he fell to 0-3 on the year despite a 2.08 ERA. Starting pitcher Daniel Minor allowed 2 runs on 5 hits in 5 innings, but did not factor in the decision.
Brett Wallace was 2 for 4 with a double and a pair of rbis as the RedHawks (16-10) defeated the Sounds 6-2. Trevor Crowe, Jake Elmore and Andrew Simunic all had multi-hit games as well for Oklahoma City while Crowe stole his 10th base on the young season. On the mound, the RedHawks got a quality start from Wes Musick who allowed just a run on two hits in 6 innings. Jason Stoffel, fresh up from Corpus Christi, made his AAA debut by allowing a run in the 9th.
AA - Corpus Christi 3 Midland 2 (11 innings)
The Hooks (15-11) scored in the bottom of the 10th to tie the game, and in the bottom of the 11th to win an extra inning affair thanks to a walkoff single from Ben Orloff. Orloff, who didn't start, was one of three Hooks players with 2 hits in the game. The others were first baseman Erik Castro and rehabber J.D. Martinez. Nick Tropeano started and threw 4 scoreless innings for the Hooks to lower his ERA on the year to 1.86. Bobby Doran and Pat Urckfitz each threw 3 solid innings in relief allowing a run apiece, and Andrew Robinson earned his first win of the year by pitching a scoreless 11th.
Advanced A - Lancaster 5 Inland Empire 3
Andrew Aplin reached base 4 times and drove in 3 runs to lead the JetHawks (15-10) to a 5-3 win over the 66ers. Mike Foltynewicz started for the JetHawks and allowed just 1 run in 4 innings while fanning 6. The hard throwing prospect was promoted to AA Corpus Christi after the game. Blair Walters earned his 3rd win of the year in relief and Kenny Long got the final six outs for his second save.
Low A - South Bend 4 Quad Cities 3
The River Bandits (15-9) squandered an early 3-0 lead and lost of a tough one to the Silver Hawks 4-3. Catcher Roberto Pena stayed red hot with 2 more hits raising his average on the year to .375 in a losing effort, while Joe Sclafani and Terrell Joyce each added two hits of their own. Lance McCullers was the hard luck loser in this one again falling victim to unearned runs and he fell to 0-3 on the year despite a 2.08 ERA. Starting pitcher Daniel Minor allowed 2 runs on 5 hits in 5 innings, but did not factor in the decision.
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Down on the Farm - 4/27/13
AAA - Oklahoma City 11 New Orleans 1
Marc Krauss clubbed his team-leading 5th home run of the season, and Jordan Lyles had his best outing of the year allowing just 1 run in 5 innings of work as the RedHawks (12-10) buried the Zephyrs 11-1. Brett Wallace added his second homer since his demotion and Jonathan Villar, Trevor Crowe and Jake Elmore all had 2 RBIs in the rout.
AA - Corpus Christi 11 Frisco 0
The Hooks (13-9) scored 7 times in the first inning and blew out the RoughRiders 11-0. Enrique Hernandez had a 3-run triple in the first, and George Springer added his 7th home run of the season to lead the offensive explosion. Bobby Doran and Nick Tropeano combined on the 7-hit shutout with Doran improving to 3-0 on the year and Tropeano earning his 3rd save while fanning 7 in his 4 innings of work.
Advanced A - Inland Empire 10 Lancaster 7 (10 innings)
The JetHawks (14-8) bullpen faltered late allowing 7 runs between the 8th and 10th innings as the JetHawks were tripped up by the 66ers 10-7 in 10. Zach Johnson went 3 for 4 with 2 doubles and a homer to lead the JetHawk offense, and Telvin Nash extended his hitting streak to 5 while clubbing his 2nd homer of the year. Travis Ballew blew the save in the 9th, but did strike out 2 more hitters giving him 17 in 7 2/3 innings this year.
Low A - Quad Cities 3 Lansing 2
John Neely got Dwight Smith to ground into a force play with the bases loaded and two outs in the 9th to give the River Bandits (13-7) a 3-2 win over the Lugnuts. Lance McCullers didn't allow an earned run in 5 innings of work lowering his ERA to 1.93 on the year, but he was denied his first win of the season once again, leaving with the score tied at 1. Daniel Minor earned the win in relief with 6 strikeouts in three scoreless innings of work. The River Bandits managed just 3 hits in the win and took advantage of 4 Lansing errors to steal this one.
Marc Krauss clubbed his team-leading 5th home run of the season, and Jordan Lyles had his best outing of the year allowing just 1 run in 5 innings of work as the RedHawks (12-10) buried the Zephyrs 11-1. Brett Wallace added his second homer since his demotion and Jonathan Villar, Trevor Crowe and Jake Elmore all had 2 RBIs in the rout.
AA - Corpus Christi 11 Frisco 0
The Hooks (13-9) scored 7 times in the first inning and blew out the RoughRiders 11-0. Enrique Hernandez had a 3-run triple in the first, and George Springer added his 7th home run of the season to lead the offensive explosion. Bobby Doran and Nick Tropeano combined on the 7-hit shutout with Doran improving to 3-0 on the year and Tropeano earning his 3rd save while fanning 7 in his 4 innings of work.
Advanced A - Inland Empire 10 Lancaster 7 (10 innings)
The JetHawks (14-8) bullpen faltered late allowing 7 runs between the 8th and 10th innings as the JetHawks were tripped up by the 66ers 10-7 in 10. Zach Johnson went 3 for 4 with 2 doubles and a homer to lead the JetHawk offense, and Telvin Nash extended his hitting streak to 5 while clubbing his 2nd homer of the year. Travis Ballew blew the save in the 9th, but did strike out 2 more hitters giving him 17 in 7 2/3 innings this year.
Low A - Quad Cities 3 Lansing 2
John Neely got Dwight Smith to ground into a force play with the bases loaded and two outs in the 9th to give the River Bandits (13-7) a 3-2 win over the Lugnuts. Lance McCullers didn't allow an earned run in 5 innings of work lowering his ERA to 1.93 on the year, but he was denied his first win of the season once again, leaving with the score tied at 1. Daniel Minor earned the win in relief with 6 strikeouts in three scoreless innings of work. The River Bandits managed just 3 hits in the win and took advantage of 4 Lansing errors to steal this one.
Friday, April 26, 2013
Down on the Farm - 4/25/13
AAA - New Orleans 10 Oklahoma City 8 (15 innings)
The RedHawks (10-10) came back from 6-0 down to send the game into extra innings, and scored 2 in the bottom of the 13th to keep it going, but eventually came up short falling in 15 innings, 10-8. Jimmy Parades and Andrew Simunic each had 3 hits, Jonathan Villar knocked in 3 runs and Brett Wallace was 2 for 6 with a double to lead the offense in a losing effort. Jarred Cosart started for Oklahoma City and endured his first bad start of the year allowing 6 runs (5 earned) in 4 1/3 innings raising his ERA to 2.86. The bullpen pitched admirably though, with Kyle Hallock, Josh Zeid, Wes Musick, Kevin Chapman, and Jose Valdez keeping the Zephyrs off the board until the for 13th.
AA - Midland 6 Corpus Christi 0
Corpus Christi (11-9) had plenty of chances, but left 9 runners on base and were 0 for 7 with runners in scoring position as they were shut down by Midland 6-0. The RockHounds took advantage of 3 Hooks errors scoring 3 unearned runs in the game. Ruben Alaniz allowed just 1 unearned run in 3 2/3 innings, but was the hard luck loser falling to 0-2 on the year. Carlos Perez and Rene Garcia each had two hits in a losing effort.
Advanced A - Lake Elsinore 9 Lancaster 8
Lancaster (13-7) scored 4 times in the 9th inning, but Chris Epps grounded out with 2 men on and 2 outs to cut the rally just short. Nolan Fontana had 3 more hits and a pair of rbis raising his average on the year to .370 and Tyler Heineman announced his return from the DL by going 4 for 4 with a double to lead the offense. Telvin Nash added a solo home run, his first of the year.
Low A - Lansing 6 Quad Cities 2
The River Bandits (11-7) struck out 13 teams and were just 1 for 11 with runners in scoring position as they wasted a solid outing from Jordan Jankowski and fell 6-2 to the Lugnuts. Jankowski allowed just 1 run in 5 innings of work, but the bullpen couldn't keep it close as Lansing pulled away late. The Bandits managed just 6 hits in the game, with Austin Elkins' double the only one for extra bases. Carlos Correa went 0 for 5 with 4 strikeouts lowering his average on the year to .211.
The RedHawks (10-10) came back from 6-0 down to send the game into extra innings, and scored 2 in the bottom of the 13th to keep it going, but eventually came up short falling in 15 innings, 10-8. Jimmy Parades and Andrew Simunic each had 3 hits, Jonathan Villar knocked in 3 runs and Brett Wallace was 2 for 6 with a double to lead the offense in a losing effort. Jarred Cosart started for Oklahoma City and endured his first bad start of the year allowing 6 runs (5 earned) in 4 1/3 innings raising his ERA to 2.86. The bullpen pitched admirably though, with Kyle Hallock, Josh Zeid, Wes Musick, Kevin Chapman, and Jose Valdez keeping the Zephyrs off the board until the for 13th.
AA - Midland 6 Corpus Christi 0
Corpus Christi (11-9) had plenty of chances, but left 9 runners on base and were 0 for 7 with runners in scoring position as they were shut down by Midland 6-0. The RockHounds took advantage of 3 Hooks errors scoring 3 unearned runs in the game. Ruben Alaniz allowed just 1 unearned run in 3 2/3 innings, but was the hard luck loser falling to 0-2 on the year. Carlos Perez and Rene Garcia each had two hits in a losing effort.
Advanced A - Lake Elsinore 9 Lancaster 8
Lancaster (13-7) scored 4 times in the 9th inning, but Chris Epps grounded out with 2 men on and 2 outs to cut the rally just short. Nolan Fontana had 3 more hits and a pair of rbis raising his average on the year to .370 and Tyler Heineman announced his return from the DL by going 4 for 4 with a double to lead the offense. Telvin Nash added a solo home run, his first of the year.
Low A - Lansing 6 Quad Cities 2
The River Bandits (11-7) struck out 13 teams and were just 1 for 11 with runners in scoring position as they wasted a solid outing from Jordan Jankowski and fell 6-2 to the Lugnuts. Jankowski allowed just 1 run in 5 innings of work, but the bullpen couldn't keep it close as Lansing pulled away late. The Bandits managed just 6 hits in the game, with Austin Elkins' double the only one for extra bases. Carlos Correa went 0 for 5 with 4 strikeouts lowering his average on the year to .211.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
If Only We Played the Mariners All the Time
Houston routed the Mariners yesterday 10-3 to improve to 4-2 against Seattle on the season. Unfortunately, against everyone else we're just 3-12. But hey, I'll take it. For just the second time this season, the Astros won a series and they did so in convincing fashion smashing three home runs and never trailing in an easy win over their division rivals. Some thoughts on yesterday's game:
1) Lucas Harrell pitched his best game of the year going 7 innings and allowing just 1 run that came across on a double play ball. After going over a week without a starter getting an out in the 6th inning, Harrell came up huge bailing out a worn out bullpen and finally giving them a break. Harrell, who has battled control issues all season allowed just two walks, and needed only 105 pitches to make it through 7, compared to his last outing when he threw 98 and didn't get through 6. Harrell has now won 2 straight starts.
2) Welcome to the show, Robbie Grossman. The hometown hero with a cult following debuted as the Astros leadoff hitter and starting centerfielder and did not disappoint going 2 for 5 and ripping a pair of doubles. I read yesterday that he became the first Astro to hit two doubles since... James Mouton... Yeah... Well, hopefully his career tracks a little bit differently. The 23 year old switch hitter brings a lot to the table, and has a huge opportunity to make a name for himself with Maxwell out for an extended period of time. And if he keeps hitting, we may have found our leadoff hitter. And just think, all we had to do was give up Wandy Rodriguez to get him.
3) Trogdor the Bombinator hit an absolute monster home run off of Joe Saunders to open the scoring in the second inning yesterday. Carter now has 5 homers and 11 rbis, tying Rick Ankiel for the team lead in both categories. 4 of his home runs have come against the Mariners, and he's hitting .423 (11/26) against them. Against everyone else he's just 6 for 51 (.118).
4) Brandon Laird broke out yesterday going 3 for 4 with 2 doubles, a homer and 4 runs batted in. Sucks to be Brett Wallace right now, because if Laird keeps hitting, and Matty D keeps playing gold glove caliber defense, it'll take a Carlos Pena trade to get him back to the show. And don't forget, Jonathan Singleton is almost halfway through his suspension which means his arrival isn't that far away either. Unless Wallace starts absolutely raking in AAA, his window may be closing pretty quick.
5) Ronny Cedeno, not one of the more popular Astros for whatever reason, had his best game in an Astros uniform yesterday going 3 for 4, driving in 3, and missing the cycle by a triple. Cedeno is now hitting .333 on the year and he's in the midst of a 6 game hitting streak. The streak is that much more impressive since Cedeno doesn't play every day, and the streak actually dates back to April 8th.
6) Brandon Barnes got two more hits yesterday to raise his average up to .367. Primarily used against lefties, Barnes' splits are actually pretty solid right now: .375 vs lefties and .357 vs righties. It's actually creating quite a logjam in the outfield because who draws the short straw when J.D. Martinez and Maxwell come back? Don't get me wrong, it's a good problem to have, but I don't envy the man who has to make those decisions.
7) With Josh Fields getting closer to his return from the DL, Rhiner Cruz did little to help his case to not be the guy to get sent down last night. Entering the game with a 10-1 lead, Cruz walked 2 hitters in his inning of work. Yeah, he didn't give up any runs, but you've got to be able to throw strikes if you're going to be a back of the bullpen guy. And there's absolutely no reason to walk guys when you're up by 9. As I said yesterday, Cruz has all the physical gifts in the world, but he's got to do better with them.
1) Lucas Harrell pitched his best game of the year going 7 innings and allowing just 1 run that came across on a double play ball. After going over a week without a starter getting an out in the 6th inning, Harrell came up huge bailing out a worn out bullpen and finally giving them a break. Harrell, who has battled control issues all season allowed just two walks, and needed only 105 pitches to make it through 7, compared to his last outing when he threw 98 and didn't get through 6. Harrell has now won 2 straight starts.
2) Welcome to the show, Robbie Grossman. The hometown hero with a cult following debuted as the Astros leadoff hitter and starting centerfielder and did not disappoint going 2 for 5 and ripping a pair of doubles. I read yesterday that he became the first Astro to hit two doubles since... James Mouton... Yeah... Well, hopefully his career tracks a little bit differently. The 23 year old switch hitter brings a lot to the table, and has a huge opportunity to make a name for himself with Maxwell out for an extended period of time. And if he keeps hitting, we may have found our leadoff hitter. And just think, all we had to do was give up Wandy Rodriguez to get him.
3) Trogdor the Bombinator hit an absolute monster home run off of Joe Saunders to open the scoring in the second inning yesterday. Carter now has 5 homers and 11 rbis, tying Rick Ankiel for the team lead in both categories. 4 of his home runs have come against the Mariners, and he's hitting .423 (11/26) against them. Against everyone else he's just 6 for 51 (.118).
4) Brandon Laird broke out yesterday going 3 for 4 with 2 doubles, a homer and 4 runs batted in. Sucks to be Brett Wallace right now, because if Laird keeps hitting, and Matty D keeps playing gold glove caliber defense, it'll take a Carlos Pena trade to get him back to the show. And don't forget, Jonathan Singleton is almost halfway through his suspension which means his arrival isn't that far away either. Unless Wallace starts absolutely raking in AAA, his window may be closing pretty quick.
5) Ronny Cedeno, not one of the more popular Astros for whatever reason, had his best game in an Astros uniform yesterday going 3 for 4, driving in 3, and missing the cycle by a triple. Cedeno is now hitting .333 on the year and he's in the midst of a 6 game hitting streak. The streak is that much more impressive since Cedeno doesn't play every day, and the streak actually dates back to April 8th.
6) Brandon Barnes got two more hits yesterday to raise his average up to .367. Primarily used against lefties, Barnes' splits are actually pretty solid right now: .375 vs lefties and .357 vs righties. It's actually creating quite a logjam in the outfield because who draws the short straw when J.D. Martinez and Maxwell come back? Don't get me wrong, it's a good problem to have, but I don't envy the man who has to make those decisions.
7) With Josh Fields getting closer to his return from the DL, Rhiner Cruz did little to help his case to not be the guy to get sent down last night. Entering the game with a 10-1 lead, Cruz walked 2 hitters in his inning of work. Yeah, he didn't give up any runs, but you've got to be able to throw strikes if you're going to be a back of the bullpen guy. And there's absolutely no reason to walk guys when you're up by 9. As I said yesterday, Cruz has all the physical gifts in the world, but he's got to do better with them.
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Down on the Farm - 4/21/13
AAA - Oklahoma City 10 Albuquerque 7
Brett Wallace kicked off his demotion with a home run and was part of a 15-hit attack as the RedHawks (10-7) outslugged the Isotopes 10-7. Jimmy Paredes added 3 hits and a homer, Marc Karuss slugged his 4th homer of the season, and Robbie Grossman added 3 hits and a pair of rbis to lead the offensive explosion. Newly acquired Eric Berger picked up his first win as a member of the Astros organization, and Josh Zeid, Kevin Chapman and Jose Valdez each tossed scoreless innings to close out the game. Valdez now has 5 saves and has yet to allow a run. Trevor Crowe went 1 for 4 and extended his hitting streak to 15 games.
AA - Frisco 7 Corpus Christi 1
Jonathan Meyer was the only member of the Hooks (9-7) to get more than one hit as the RoughRiders cruised to a 7-1 victory. George Springer was 1 for 3 with a double and a walk, and Austin Wates reached base twice, but Corpus Christi was just 1 for 8 with runners in scoring position. Matthew Heidenreich (1-2) pitched 5 innings and allowed 4 runs on 8 hits to take the loss.
Advanced A - Lancaster 6 Bakersfield 5
Andrew Aplin doubled home Nolan Fontana with one out in the bottom of the 9th to send the JetHawks (11-6) to a walkoff win over the Blaze. Aplin finished 2 for 5 with 3 runs batted in, and Chris Epps slugged a two run homer, his first of the year to lead the offense. Travis Ballew got the win in relief after striking out the side in the top of the 9th. Ballew now has 15 strikeouts in 6 2/3 innings of work and he's struck out the side in each of the last four innings he's pitched.
Low A - Quad Cities 12 Wisconsin 5
Carlos Correa snapped out of his recent slump in a big way with 2 homers, 3 rbis and 4 runs scored as the River Bandits (10-5) defeated the Timber Rattlers 12-5. Correa had seen his average dip down to .205 before tonight's 3 for 4 showing raised it back up to .256. Jesse Wierzbicki added a homer and Rio Ruiz and Jordan Scott both knocked in a pair as part of the 12-run outburst. Michael Dimock earned the win with a scoreless inning of relief while Vincent Velasquez threw 4 shutout innings to earn his second save.
Brett Wallace kicked off his demotion with a home run and was part of a 15-hit attack as the RedHawks (10-7) outslugged the Isotopes 10-7. Jimmy Paredes added 3 hits and a homer, Marc Karuss slugged his 4th homer of the season, and Robbie Grossman added 3 hits and a pair of rbis to lead the offensive explosion. Newly acquired Eric Berger picked up his first win as a member of the Astros organization, and Josh Zeid, Kevin Chapman and Jose Valdez each tossed scoreless innings to close out the game. Valdez now has 5 saves and has yet to allow a run. Trevor Crowe went 1 for 4 and extended his hitting streak to 15 games.
AA - Frisco 7 Corpus Christi 1
Jonathan Meyer was the only member of the Hooks (9-7) to get more than one hit as the RoughRiders cruised to a 7-1 victory. George Springer was 1 for 3 with a double and a walk, and Austin Wates reached base twice, but Corpus Christi was just 1 for 8 with runners in scoring position. Matthew Heidenreich (1-2) pitched 5 innings and allowed 4 runs on 8 hits to take the loss.
Advanced A - Lancaster 6 Bakersfield 5
Andrew Aplin doubled home Nolan Fontana with one out in the bottom of the 9th to send the JetHawks (11-6) to a walkoff win over the Blaze. Aplin finished 2 for 5 with 3 runs batted in, and Chris Epps slugged a two run homer, his first of the year to lead the offense. Travis Ballew got the win in relief after striking out the side in the top of the 9th. Ballew now has 15 strikeouts in 6 2/3 innings of work and he's struck out the side in each of the last four innings he's pitched.
Low A - Quad Cities 12 Wisconsin 5
Carlos Correa snapped out of his recent slump in a big way with 2 homers, 3 rbis and 4 runs scored as the River Bandits (10-5) defeated the Timber Rattlers 12-5. Correa had seen his average dip down to .205 before tonight's 3 for 4 showing raised it back up to .256. Jesse Wierzbicki added a homer and Rio Ruiz and Jordan Scott both knocked in a pair as part of the 12-run outburst. Michael Dimock earned the win with a scoreless inning of relief while Vincent Velasquez threw 4 shutout innings to earn his second save.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Astros Swept By A's Again
Another sweep at the hands of the Oakland Athletics. At least we were in a couple of the games this time around. Heck, if J.D. Martinez doesn't strike out with the bases loaded and one out in the second game, or Rick Ankiel's rocket line drive down the first base line doesn't miraculously find the first baseman's mitt, we probably come away with a win. We knew the 'Stros weren't going to be great this year, all you can really ask is for them to be competitive. Some more thoughts on the past two games:
1) I love Brad Peacock's stuff. I'd love it more if he'd pitch deeper into games, but he's showing more and more every outing. I know he's failed to get out of the fifth in two of three starts, but his 7 strikeouts were a team-high this year. I look forward to seeing him develop over the course of the season.
2) Nice to finally see Carlos Pena start hitting the long ball. Two home runs in two days after none in the first 13 games of the season. And now he's back to where he should be, with more home runs than bunt singles. I would like to see a few more rbis from him though as he only has 6 through 15 games, but I could say that about almost anyone on the team. Like I said the other day, it's not like anyone other than Jose Altuve is a really tough out right now.
3) What's up with our starters not getting out of the first inning? Twice in the same series? I read that this was like only the third time since 1900 that pitchers on the same team had allowed at least six runs in a start while pitching less than an inning in the same series. Awesome! Of course one of the guys involved in the most recent time prior to this one was a former Astro. Hooray Jim Clancy! Anyhow, if there's a silver lining to the poor starting pitching it's that our long relief was terrific. In this series we got 5 1/3 scoreless innings from Paul Clemens, 3 scoreless innings from Dallas Keuchel, 2 1/3 scoreless innings from Wesley Wright, and 2 2/3 innings of one run ball from Xavier Cedeno. Now we just need to figure out how to translate those performances into games when we NEED them!
4) Nice to see the Astros FINALLY start stealing some bases. After just 1 steal (and 3 caught stealings) in the first 14 games, the Astros stole three bases on Wednesday afternoon (Brandon Barnes, Marwin Gonzalez and Jose Altuve). I really think this is a MUST for this team. If you're not going to hit for a high average, you have to be proficient on the basepaths. Get 'em over, get 'em in. Hopefully we'll see more of that moving forward. And yes, its helps if you have guys on base to start with.
5) Brett Wallace is headed back to Oklahoma City to get some more playing time and figure out what's going on with his swing. As a result Brandon Laird got the call, but it wasn't thanks to John Ely going on the 60 Day DL like I'd initially thought. Instead, Xavier Cedeno and his 11.37 ERA was designated for assignment which means he's off the 40-man roster. I'll be the first to admit, I'm somewhat surprised that that was the route that took. But then again, you can't average 3 baserunners an inning, and pitch at the Major League Level. Plus, we do still have to lefties in the pen with Keuchel and Wright. And another one starting a rehab assignment in Oklahoma City in Travis Blackley. So maybe having that lefty specialist isn't all that valuable. You could probably also argue that having a closer on this team isn't very valuable, but that's another story. Anyhow, Brandon Laird, who was hitting .353 for the RedHawks with 5 doubles, 2 homers and a team high 14 runs batted in is going to get his shot. Now 25 years old, Laird was 9 for 35 over 17 games for the Astros late last year with a homer, a double and 4 runs batted in. He was absolutely smoking the ball this spring though, and has continued to play well in AAA. He certainly deserves the opportunity. But now with Wallace gone, it will be interesting to see who goes down if/when Fernando Martinez finishes his rehab. My money is on J.D. Martinez (.227 1 HR), especially with Laird (a righty) replacing Wallace (a lefty). We'll see though. I've been wrong many times before.
6) The A's have now swept us twice this month. The good news for Astros fans? We get THIRTEEN MORE SHOTS AT THEM! We're bound to win at least ONE, right?
7) Jose Veras pitched a scoreless inning on Wednesday, but he still has yet to put together a 1-2-3 inning this season now allowing baserunners in each of his first six outings.
8) Next up, the Cleveland Indians and a return to Houston for Brett Myers and Brad Mills. It'd be a homecoming for Michael Bourn as well, but he's on 15-Day DL right now. Cleveland was 5-8 heading into today, so let's see if we can snap this skid and get Win number FIVE!
1) I love Brad Peacock's stuff. I'd love it more if he'd pitch deeper into games, but he's showing more and more every outing. I know he's failed to get out of the fifth in two of three starts, but his 7 strikeouts were a team-high this year. I look forward to seeing him develop over the course of the season.
2) Nice to finally see Carlos Pena start hitting the long ball. Two home runs in two days after none in the first 13 games of the season. And now he's back to where he should be, with more home runs than bunt singles. I would like to see a few more rbis from him though as he only has 6 through 15 games, but I could say that about almost anyone on the team. Like I said the other day, it's not like anyone other than Jose Altuve is a really tough out right now.
3) What's up with our starters not getting out of the first inning? Twice in the same series? I read that this was like only the third time since 1900 that pitchers on the same team had allowed at least six runs in a start while pitching less than an inning in the same series. Awesome! Of course one of the guys involved in the most recent time prior to this one was a former Astro. Hooray Jim Clancy! Anyhow, if there's a silver lining to the poor starting pitching it's that our long relief was terrific. In this series we got 5 1/3 scoreless innings from Paul Clemens, 3 scoreless innings from Dallas Keuchel, 2 1/3 scoreless innings from Wesley Wright, and 2 2/3 innings of one run ball from Xavier Cedeno. Now we just need to figure out how to translate those performances into games when we NEED them!
4) Nice to see the Astros FINALLY start stealing some bases. After just 1 steal (and 3 caught stealings) in the first 14 games, the Astros stole three bases on Wednesday afternoon (Brandon Barnes, Marwin Gonzalez and Jose Altuve). I really think this is a MUST for this team. If you're not going to hit for a high average, you have to be proficient on the basepaths. Get 'em over, get 'em in. Hopefully we'll see more of that moving forward. And yes, its helps if you have guys on base to start with.
5) Brett Wallace is headed back to Oklahoma City to get some more playing time and figure out what's going on with his swing. As a result Brandon Laird got the call, but it wasn't thanks to John Ely going on the 60 Day DL like I'd initially thought. Instead, Xavier Cedeno and his 11.37 ERA was designated for assignment which means he's off the 40-man roster. I'll be the first to admit, I'm somewhat surprised that that was the route that took. But then again, you can't average 3 baserunners an inning, and pitch at the Major League Level. Plus, we do still have to lefties in the pen with Keuchel and Wright. And another one starting a rehab assignment in Oklahoma City in Travis Blackley. So maybe having that lefty specialist isn't all that valuable. You could probably also argue that having a closer on this team isn't very valuable, but that's another story. Anyhow, Brandon Laird, who was hitting .353 for the RedHawks with 5 doubles, 2 homers and a team high 14 runs batted in is going to get his shot. Now 25 years old, Laird was 9 for 35 over 17 games for the Astros late last year with a homer, a double and 4 runs batted in. He was absolutely smoking the ball this spring though, and has continued to play well in AAA. He certainly deserves the opportunity. But now with Wallace gone, it will be interesting to see who goes down if/when Fernando Martinez finishes his rehab. My money is on J.D. Martinez (.227 1 HR), especially with Laird (a righty) replacing Wallace (a lefty). We'll see though. I've been wrong many times before.
6) The A's have now swept us twice this month. The good news for Astros fans? We get THIRTEEN MORE SHOTS AT THEM! We're bound to win at least ONE, right?
7) Jose Veras pitched a scoreless inning on Wednesday, but he still has yet to put together a 1-2-3 inning this season now allowing baserunners in each of his first six outings.
8) Next up, the Cleveland Indians and a return to Houston for Brett Myers and Brad Mills. It'd be a homecoming for Michael Bourn as well, but he's on 15-Day DL right now. Cleveland was 5-8 heading into today, so let's see if we can snap this skid and get Win number FIVE!
Monday, April 15, 2013
Philip Humber Just Can't Catch a Break
Another tough loss, but getting shut down by C.J. Wilson isn't exactly anything to be ashamed of. Nor is losing a series on the road against the Angels. Let's face it, even though they're struggling, they still have arguably three of the best players in the game right now, and they're going to get theirs. And hey, even with the loss, we're looking at a 3-3 week in which we were in every game. Throw out a blown save and we win both series and go 4-2. Anyhow, here's some more thoughts on the loss:
1) Not a lot of offense yesterday, BUT it should be noted that the Astros worked 5 more walks including 2 apiece for Chris Carter and Carlos Pena. I love seeing this from Carter because a little bit of plate discipline is just going to make him that much more dangerous as a hitter.
2) You've gotta feel bad for Philip Humber. The guy has pitched his heart out in 3 straight starts. He's got an ERA of 2.89, and zero wins to show for it thanks in large part to the fact that the Astros have managed to score exactly one run TOTAL in his three starts. That's just not going to get it done.
3) Rhiner Cruz made his team high eighth appearance of the season yesterday afternoon and surrendered a two-run home run to Josh Hamilton. The flame-throwing righty has worked 8 innings out of the pen this year and has a 4.50 ERA while allowing 10 hits, but only fanning two. I'm not sure why Rhiner is getting the lion's share of the late innings right now, other than that he is probably the only guy that really has the stuff to be a dominant late innings pitcher. Figure Bo's going to give him every opportunity to be that guy this year. Kind of the same way we're going to keep sending Brett Wallace out there even though he's struggling. You've got to find out what you've got. Personally I'd like to see Wesley Wright get a longer look as a true setup man, especially given that we have two other lefties in the pen right now. That's just me though.
4) On the injury front, Fernando Martinez started his rehab stint in AAA this weekend and could be back in Houston by midweek. It'll be interesting to see who gets sent down if/when Fernando comes back. My money is on Brett Wallace just because he's in the biggest slump right now, although J.D. Martinez is certainly a possibility as well simply because those two play the same position. In other injury news, Houston lost yet another fringe arm to Tommy John surgery as John Ely, acquired from the Dodgers, just got shut down for the season. Ely had pitched in just one game in AAA this year working 4 scoreless innings and earning a save. What this means moving forward is that another spot on the 40-man roster is opening up. So someone like Brandon Laird, who's hanging out in AAA, may now have a clear path to Houston should a roster spot become available. It alternatively gives Houston a chance to sign a player off of waivers without making a corresponding roster move. Just something to keep an eye on.
5) Houston's starters have a 3.39 ERA through 12 starts this season led by Bud Norris (1.96) and Humber (2.89). Only one starter - Lucas Harrell - has allowed more than 3 earned runs in one of his starts. The bullpen, by contrast, has a 5.72 ERA and has allowed 63 baserunners in 39 1/3 innings. If Houston is ever going to be competitive, those numbers MUST get better.
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Albert Pujols is a Bad Man
Losses like that one are always hard to swallow. You can't help but look at missed opportunities, and wonder about what might've been. That said, it's one game, and if you're going to get beaten by someone in the bottom of the 9th, it might as well be one of the greatest players to ever play the game. Hats off to Albert, once again he beat us. Some more thoughts on last night's game:
1) I've mentioned before how I'm not sure Jose Veras is the answer at closer. But when you look at our bullpen right now, I don't know who is. Wesley Wright hasn't been as effective in 2013, Rhiner Cruz is still learning the finer points of pitching, Hector Ambriz has allowed more than 2 hits an inning, Xavier Cedeno has control issues, Paul Clemens has pitched in exactly one major league game, and Dallas Keuchel is, at best, a serviceable long reliever. Now last night wasn't exactly an easy save situation, but Veras has yet to put together a 1-2-3 inning and any of his 5 outings now. You can't put that many runners on base and expect to be effective in the late innings. Plus, you can't walk the #9 hitter. Make him put the ball in play! We'll see how Veras bounces back. Hopefully his next opportunity involves a three run lead so he has more of a margin for error and can gain some confidence.
2) I probably should have led with this, but Brett Wallace had 4 at-bats last night and struck out exactly ZERO times! He even battled for a walk which helped facilitate Houston's 2-run 7th. I don't want to say he's on the verge of breaking out of his season long slump, but last night was a good step in the right direction. We'll see if he can build on that moving forward.
3) J.D. Martinez's error proved to be pretty costly. And let's face it, errors in close games usually are. You've got to make that play though if you're a Major League outfielder. Now I realize J.D.'s game is probably better suited for left field, but still... If he's going to be out there, he needs to make those types of plays.
4) Chris Carter is a beast. Trogdor bashed his 4th home run of the season and extended his hitting streak to 6 games. He's still managed to strike out in 11 straight games passing Wallace for the team lead with 18, but so long as he's producing, I can live with the occasional (or more than occasional) strikeout. After starting the season 1 for 19, Carter has raised his average up to .289 during the streak.
5) Lucas Harrell pitched much better this time out. After getting roughed up pretty good by Oakland, he continued the trend of solid starting pitching for the Astros allowing just 1 run in 5 2/3 innings. Houston starters have allowed more than 3 earned runs just once this season and have a 3.49 ERA through 11 starts.
6) Marwin Gonzalez executed a perfect bases loaded squeeze play in the 7th inning to bring home Houston's 4th and final run. It's nice to see us able to bring that runner home from third base this season. Houston stranded just 3 runners last night and was 2 for 5 with runners in scoring position.
Houston sends Philip Humber to the mound today in an effort to win their second straight series. The Astros have not scored a single run in either of Humber's two previous starts this year.
1) I've mentioned before how I'm not sure Jose Veras is the answer at closer. But when you look at our bullpen right now, I don't know who is. Wesley Wright hasn't been as effective in 2013, Rhiner Cruz is still learning the finer points of pitching, Hector Ambriz has allowed more than 2 hits an inning, Xavier Cedeno has control issues, Paul Clemens has pitched in exactly one major league game, and Dallas Keuchel is, at best, a serviceable long reliever. Now last night wasn't exactly an easy save situation, but Veras has yet to put together a 1-2-3 inning and any of his 5 outings now. You can't put that many runners on base and expect to be effective in the late innings. Plus, you can't walk the #9 hitter. Make him put the ball in play! We'll see how Veras bounces back. Hopefully his next opportunity involves a three run lead so he has more of a margin for error and can gain some confidence.
2) I probably should have led with this, but Brett Wallace had 4 at-bats last night and struck out exactly ZERO times! He even battled for a walk which helped facilitate Houston's 2-run 7th. I don't want to say he's on the verge of breaking out of his season long slump, but last night was a good step in the right direction. We'll see if he can build on that moving forward.
3) J.D. Martinez's error proved to be pretty costly. And let's face it, errors in close games usually are. You've got to make that play though if you're a Major League outfielder. Now I realize J.D.'s game is probably better suited for left field, but still... If he's going to be out there, he needs to make those types of plays.
4) Chris Carter is a beast. Trogdor bashed his 4th home run of the season and extended his hitting streak to 6 games. He's still managed to strike out in 11 straight games passing Wallace for the team lead with 18, but so long as he's producing, I can live with the occasional (or more than occasional) strikeout. After starting the season 1 for 19, Carter has raised his average up to .289 during the streak.
5) Lucas Harrell pitched much better this time out. After getting roughed up pretty good by Oakland, he continued the trend of solid starting pitching for the Astros allowing just 1 run in 5 2/3 innings. Houston starters have allowed more than 3 earned runs just once this season and have a 3.49 ERA through 11 starts.
6) Marwin Gonzalez executed a perfect bases loaded squeeze play in the 7th inning to bring home Houston's 4th and final run. It's nice to see us able to bring that runner home from third base this season. Houston stranded just 3 runners last night and was 2 for 5 with runners in scoring position.
Houston sends Philip Humber to the mound today in an effort to win their second straight series. The Astros have not scored a single run in either of Humber's two previous starts this year.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)