7/19 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on July 20, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

Atlanta Braves OF prospect Cody Johnson reclaimed the minor league HR lead by blasting his 24th yesterday, driving in two and scoring twice.  He also walked and stole his 9th base of the season.  Power is definitively his calling card, but it is nice to see him drawing more walks as of late and stealing bases.  The more that Johnson can distinguish himself as a multi-dimensional hitter, the more bullish I become about his major league future.  Johnson has already exceeded his walk totals from last season, drawing his 47th yesterday, and his K rate has slowed significantly during the month of July (13 BB/19 K).  On the flip side, Cody has posted his lowest batting average splits this month, hitting just .207 with 4 HR and 15 RBI.  I am not too concerned with this as he may be making mechanical adjustments and altering his aggressive approach.  I look at this as a positive sign for long term success.  The power potential is there for Johnson to be a perennial 30-40 HR hitter at the big league level and his overall potential reminds me of towering slugger and whiff machine Adam Dunn.  His walk rates are behind Dunn’s at this point, but at just 20 years old, there is plenty of time for Johnson to boost his totals.  Johnson’s first year autos have experienced bi-polar fluctuations over the past couple of seasons, rising to $20+ in 2007 and dropping to $8-10 during ‘08.  Currently, they are residing somewhere in the middle at $7-9 for his Bowman Sterling autos and $9-12 for his Bowman Chrome Draft autos.  I think that AA ball is going to be a huge litmus test for the former AFLAC All-American and we’ll likely have to wait until next season to see the effects of that.  As for this season, 30 HR 90 RBI and about 150 K’s seems to be solid locks.

Roger Kieschnick had four knocks yesterday including his 19th HR, four RBI and three runs scored.  Kieschnick’s big day snapped a 2-18 dry spell and raised his average to .296 and his RBI total to 74 on the season.  Similar to Johnson, Roger seems to be altering his approach at the plate to cut back on his K’s as his BB/K ratio for the month of July has been quite balanced (8 BB/10 K) but his batting average (.237) is more than 40 points lower than his previous season low.  I am much more an advocate of a balanced approach at the plate.  Strikeouts are not a major detractor from overall performance if the power numbers and OBP remains high.  Hitters like Ryan Howard, Adam Dunn, Carlos Pena and others have put up monster seasons despite big K numbers as they are able to also draw 80-100+ walks per season.  Kieschnick’s first year autos are quite affordable right now with prices for his Donruss Elite Extra, Razor Threads, and Playoff Rookie Ticket autos selling for $7-10 each.  I think Kieschnick’s power numbers will carry forward, but I am skeptical of his batting average totals.  The athletic outfielder’s flirtation with the .300 mark has more to do with the fact that he is currently in the California Leauge and amidst a talented lineup.  Perhaps his recent struggles can be attributed in part to the fact that Buster Posey has moved on to AAA. 

Today’s top prospect is another California League offensive benefactor, San Diego Padres 3B prospect James Darnell.  The former South Carolina Gamecock belted HR’s 12 and 13 yesterday, driving in four runs.  Darnell started slowly after his late June promotion, but has caught fire over the last 10 games, hitting .324 with four HR, eight RBI and seven runs scored.  Darnell’s plate discipline is extraordinary as he has a positive 68 BB/61 K ratio.  The Padres have a pleasant dilemma at the hot corner as both Darnell and AA star Logan Forsythe are both having stellar seasons.  Defensively, Forsythe is clearly superior as his excellent range, arm, and hands trump Darnell’s decent skills.  Darnell will likely have to move to the outfield where there is a plethora of talented prospects to compete with.  I think he’s a player that should play at both AA and AAA next year with a shot at earning a 2010 September debut, but it will be interesting to see exactly where he ends up as a pro.  His first year autos from the 2008 Donruss Elite Extra, Playoff Contenders, and Razor sets are all quite affordable right now at $3-8 each and serve as excellent sleeper buys for next season.

High-A Player of the Day—JAMES DARNELL

Other Notable Performances:

Hitting:

• Michael Bianucci—2-4 HR(16) RBI 2B 2R
• Roger Kieschnick—4-5 HR(19) 4 RBI 3R
• Conor Gillaspie—3-5 2B 2R 2 RBI
• Thomas Neal—2-6 2 2B 2R
• Darren Ford—2-4 2B R RBI
• C.J. Ziegler—5-5 2B 2R RBI
• Tyson Gillies—2-4 2B
• Joe Dunigan—1-3 HR(22) 2 RBI
• Jake Rife—3-4 2B 2 RBI
• Jay Brossman—1-3 2R 2B 2 RBI BB
• Jemile Weeks—3-5 2 2B R
• Grant Desme—2-4 2B 3R RBI BB
• Jermaine Mitchell—3-4 2 RBI R SB(10)
• Jon Gaston—2-4 HR(23) 2 RBI 2R
• James Shuck—2-5 3R
• Brian Barnes—1-3 3R RBI 2 BB
• Koby Clemens—3-5 2B 3 RBI
• James Darnell—3-5 2 HR(13) 3 RBI 2R
• Matt Clark—2-5 2 HR(15) 2 RBI 2R
• Christan Lara—3-5 HR(5) 2 RBI SB(11)
• Pedro Baez—2-4 2B R SB(5)
• Radamez Nazario—3-4 2B 2R RBI
• Pedro Florimon Jr.—2-4 2B 2R 2 RBI
• Derrick Robinson—2-5 R RBI SB(46)
• Johnny Giavotella—2-5 RBI 2 SB(16)
• Eric Huber—1-4 2B 4 RBI
• Alex Presley—3-5 2B 2R
• Cody Johnson—1-3 HR(24) 2 RBI 2R BB SB(9)
• Dominic Brown—2-3 2 RBI BB
• Arlon Quiroz—3-4 R SB(15)
• Derrick Mitchell—2-4 2B HR(7) RBI
• Brad McElroy—3-5 2R SB(4)
• John Tolisano—1-3 R RBI 2 BB
• Manny Rodriguez—2-4 HR(5) 4 RBI BB
• Logan Schafer—3-5 2B 2R
• Lee Haydel—1-4 2B 2R 2 RBI
• Damon Sublett—2-5 2B BB
• Austin Romine—1-4 2B R RBI BB
• Chris Swauger—2-2 HR(9) 3 RBI BB

Pitching:

• Nick Additon—6.1 IP 7H 4 ER 2 BB 8K
• Darren Byrd—6 IP 4H ER 3K W (2-3)
• Jeff Mandel—7 IP 5H Er BB 6K W (8-4)

4/27 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 28, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

Pedro Alvarez and Freddie Freeman squared off against each other yesterday and each talleyed a homerun for their respective teams.  Jason Castro went deep for the third time as did Roger Kieschnick.  Jordan Danks and James Shuck each rapped three hits and scored multiple times as well.  On the mound, Charles Shirek tossed seven shutout innings, striking out eight for his third win and Yankees prospect Jeremy Bleich won his second with six shutout innings.

Today’s top player award goes to Yonder Alonso who only had one hit, but he made it count.  The Reds’ ‘08 first rounder blasted his fourth HR, a grand slam, to help Sarasota overcome a six run deficit and defeat Charlotte 8-7.  Alonso started the season slowly, but has begun to hit better as of late batting .278 with 3 HR and 16 RBI in his last 10 games.  The plate discipline is there (7 BB/10 K), which is a prime indicator that the bat will continue to sizzle and his current batting average of .219 will soon be a thing of the past.

High-A Player of the Day—YONDER ALONSO

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Brandon Crawford—2-5 3B R
• Nick Noonan—1-3 2 RBI BB
• Roger Kieschnick—2-4 HR(3) RBI 3B 2R
• James Shuck—3-3 2R RBi 2B 2 BB SB(6)
• James Castro—2-5 HR(3) RBI
• T.J. Steele—2-4 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Caleb Joseph—3-4 2 2B R SB(1)
• Jordan Danks—3-5 3R
• Pedro Alvarez—1-3 HR(4) RBI 2 BB 2R
• Freddie Freeman—1-5 HR(4) 2 RBI
• Emeel Salem—2-3 2R 2 BB SB(3)
• Cody Cipriano—2-4 2B R 3 RBI BB SB(1)
• Alex Buchholz—2-3 2B R BB
• Yonder Alonso—1-4 HR(4) 4 RBI
• Justin Reed—2-4 2 2B RBI R
• Darin Mastroianni—1-2 2R 3 BB 3 SB(12)
• Moises Sierra—1-4 4 RBI R
• Eric Thames—1-2 2B 2R 3 RBI
• Michael Stanton—1-3 RBI BB SB(1)
• Jesus Montero—2-4 2B RBI
• Austin Krum—3-4 2R BB
• Eric Farris—2-4 RBI 2 SB(8)
• Arlon Chambers—2-3 3B RBI BB R

Pitching:

• David Bromberg—4.2 IP 3H ER 2 BB 5K
• Jeremy Bleich—6 IP 3H BB 6K W(2-0)
• Kyle Winters—7 IP 3H BB 6K
• Jenrry Mejia—5 IP 5H 5K
• Ryan Searle—5 IP 2H BB 2K W(2-1)
• Charles Shirek—7 IP 4H BB 8K W(3-0)

4/23 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 24, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

Michael Stanton and Matt Dominguez homered in yesterday’s games as did Dominic Brown, Lonnie Chisenhall, Felix Carrasco, Charlie Blackmon, Thomas Neal, and Brandon Crawford.  Tyler Robertson looks like his is on the comeback trail as he tossed five scoreless innings to earn his first win of ‘09 and Duane Below tossed a hitless five innings allowing an unearned run and striking out seven.

Today’s top High-A player is Michael Burgess.  The former 1st round pick has struggled mightily this season (.163 BA), but he belted his fourth HR of the season, driving in five and walking and scoring twice.  Burgess has enormous power potential but is still learning how to reign in his plate discipline.  The left handed slugger has walked seven time in his last ten games though, which gives reason to believe that he could make some progress as the season goes on.

High-A Player of the Day—MICHAEL BURGESS

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Clay Fuller—2-4 HR(2) 2 RBI 2R 2B BB SB(6)
• Matthew Sweeney—2-5 3B R RBI
• Julio Perez—3-5 2B RBI R
• Brandon Crawford—2-4 HR(5) 3 RBI BB
• Roger Kieschnick—2-5 2 2B 2R
• Thomas Neal—3-5 HR(2) 4 RBI 2B 2R
• Charlie Blackmon—1-4 HR(1) RBI
• Matt Spencer—2-3 2R 2 BB 2 SB(3)
• Timmy Smith—3-4 HR(2) 4 RBI 2B 2R
• Alex Presley—1-5 HR(1) 2 RBI 2R
• Jordy Mercer—1-3 R 2 BB SB(2)
• Kris Watts—2-5 HR(2) 2 RBI 2R
• Tim Fedroff—4-5 2 2B 3B 3R RBI
• Lonnie Chisenhall—2-5 2B HR(3) 3 RBI
• Michael Burgess—2-3 HR(4) 5 RBI 2 BB 2R
• David Espinosa—2-5 2B R RBI BB SB(6)
• Greg Paimi—2-4 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Kris Negron—3-4 2 HR(2) 4 RBI 2R
• Eric Fryer—2-4 2B 2R RBI BB
• Jesus Montero—2-4 R 3 RBI
• Dominic Brown—2-4 HR(1) 3 RBI 2R SB(4)
• Freddy Galvis—2-4 3R BB 2 SB(2)
• Mike Gosse—2-5 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Ben Revere—2-5 R RBI 2 SB(7)
• Joe Benson—1-3 2B R RBI BB
• Deibinson Romero—2-3 2R BB
• Matthew Hall—1-2 R 2 BB 2 SB(2)
• Reese Havens—1-2 2B R 2 BB
• Matt Dominguez—1-3 HR(1) 2 RBI BB
• Michael Stanton—1-4 HR(4) RBI

Pitching:

• Alejandro Sanabia—5 IP 4H ER 2 BB 6K
• Tyler Robertson—5 IP 5H BB 5K W(1-0)
• Duane Below—5 IP 0H UER 2 BB 7K W(1-1)
• Wilkin De La Rosa—4 IP H 2 BB 3K
• Wynn Pelzer—5 IP H ER 2 BB 4K W(2-0)
• Bryan Olan—1.2 IP BB 3K SV(4)
• Scott Barnes—5 IP 5H 2 ER 2 BB 5K W(2-1)
• Bruce Billings—5 IP 4H BB 5K W(1-2)
• Seth Garrison—6 IP 4H ER 6K W(1-0)

4/23 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 23, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

CALIFORNIA LEAGUE

Brandon Crawford, Alex Liddi, and Matt Spencer all hit their fourth HR’s of the season and Madison Bumgarner allowed just one run over five innings to go a perfect 3-0 for the 2009 season.  Chris Withrow punched out 10 over just five innings but lost to today’s player of the day Chris Hicks. 

The Astros right hander tossed five innings of scoreless ball, allowing just five hits while striking out nine.  Hicks, 21, is now 2-1 on the season with a 3.07 ERA and 18 K’s in 14.2 IP.  Used almost exclusively as a reliever last season, Hicks has proven to be quite adept at forcing groundball outs this season (2.57/FO) and has exhibited good control.  At 6-4 205 lb., he appears to have a nice durable frame capable of handling a steady workload.

California League Player of the Day—CHRIS HICKS

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Alex Liddi—3-4 HR(4) 3 RBI 2B
• James McOwen—3-5 2R SB(1)
• Joe Dunigan—4-4 HR(3) 2 RBI 2B
• Kuo Hui Lo—2-4 HR(1) RBI 3B 2R
• Matt Spencer—3-4 2B HR(4) RBI 3R BB
• Jermaine Mitchell—2-4 HR(1) RBI
• Brandon Crawford—1-4 HR(4) 2 RBI
• Buster Posey—2-4 R RBI
• Roger Kieschnick—1-3 HR(2) 2 RBI
• Engel Beltre—1-4 2B 2R RBI BB SB(5)
• Mitch Moreland—1-4 HR(2) RBI 2 BB 2R
• Mauro Gomez—3-6 HR(3) 6 RBI 2B
• Collin Cowgill—2-5 R SB(3)
• Scott Vanslyke—4-5 2B 3B 2R

Pitching:

• Nathan Adcock—6 IP 4H BB 4K W(2-1)
• Madison Bumgarner—5 IP 5H ER 5K W(3-0)
• Chris Withrow—5 IP 3H Er 2 BB 10 K L(1-1)
• Chris Hicks—5 IP 5H 2 BB 9K W(2-1)

CAROLINA LEAGUE

Jason Place continues to make positive strides in his development as he hit his second HR and drove in three runs.  Teammate Chi-Hsien Chiang had nice back to back outings combining to go 4-7 with a HR, three RBI and three runs scored.  Jordan Danks had three hits, driving in two and scoring twice.

Today’s player of the day in the Carolina League is Cleveland Indians 3B prospect Lonnie Chisenhall.  For the second straight day, Chisenhall homered and drove in five runs.  The Indians’ 2008 first round selection has an eight game hitting streak and is beginning to demonstrate the promising power potential and plate discipline that made him a top draft choice last June.

Carolina League Player of the Day—LONNIE CHISENHALL

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Jason Place—2-4 HR(2) 3 RBI BB 2B 2R
• Chih-Hsien Chiang—2-4 HR(1) 3 RBI BB 2R (Game 1)…2-3 R (Game 2)
• Kris Negron—2-4 R RBI SB(2)
• Clint Robinson—2-3 2 HR(2) 2 RBI BB 2R (Game 1)…1-4 HR(3) RBI (Game 2)
• David Lough—3-4 2 RBI
• Lonnie Chisenhall—2-5 GS HR(2) 5 RBI 2B BB
• Cord Phelps—2-4 2B BB R
• Freddie Freeman—2-5 2B 2R
• Michael Fisher—3-4 2R BB
• Jordan Danks—3-4 2 RBI 2R BB SB(3)
• Brent Morel—2-4 R BB SB(5)

Pitching:

• Ronal Uviedo—5 IP 2H 5K
• Zack Britton—5 IP 4H ER 2 BB 4K

FLORIDA STATE LEAGUE

Matt Dominguez and Michael Stanton combined to go 4-7 with four runs and three walks.  Osvaldo Martinez, Alex Buchholz, Eric Thames and Reid Fronk each pounded out three hits and Shawn O’Malley had four hits and three runs scored. 

Today’s FSL top player is Jupiter Hammerheads pitcher Kyle Winters.  One day after his 22nd birthday, the ‘05 fifth rounder tossed seven two-hit innings walking one and striking out two.  Winters has allowed just one run in his first 19 innings of 2009 (0.47 ERA)  He is a control pitcher who gets a lot of groundball outs and has made some improvements, thusfar, in controlling the strike zone.

Florida State League Player of the Day—KYLE WINTERS

 
Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Matt Dominguez—2-4 2B 3R BB
• Michael Stanton—2-3 R RBI 2 BB
• Osvaldo Martinez—3-4 2 3B 2R BB
• Cole Gillespie—2-2 R 2 BB SB(4)
• Austin Romine—2-4 2B 2R
• Dominic Brown—2-3 BB R SB(3)
• Kody Kaiser—2-3 BB R SB(3)
• Audy Ciraco—2-4 HR(1) 2 RBI 2B 2R
• Marwin Gonzalez—3-5 2B 2R
• Jovan Rosa—2-2 2B 2 RBI
• Eric Thames—3-4 2B 3B RBI 2R
• Jermaine Curtis—3-4 RBI
• Deibinson Romero—2-3 2R 2B RBI
• Alex Buchholz—3-5 2B 3B 2 RBI
• Reid Fronk—3-5 2B RBI
• Shawn O’Malley—4-5 2B 3B RBI 3R

Pitching:

• Kyle Winters—7 IP 2 H BB 2K W(1-0)
• Andrew Hess—5 Ip 6H 4K W(1-0)
• David Bromberg—6 IP 4H ER 2 BB 3K W(1-0)

4/20 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 21, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

CALIFORNIA LEAGUE

Matthew Sweeney knocked another three hits, as did Jack Shuck, Todd Johnson, Alex Liddi and Mitch Moreland.  Juan Ramirez and Alexander Torres locked horns in a good pitching battle, though neither one of them earned a decision for their efforts.  Today’s top player is one of the overlooked prospects on San Jose’s mega-talented roster.  Conor Gillespie went 2-3 with his first HR and two runs scored.

California League Player of the Day—CONOR GILLESPIE

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Lance Zawadzki—1-4 HR(1) RBI
• Conor Gillespie—2-3 HR(1) RBI BB 2R
• Angel Villalona—2-3 2B BB
• Nick Noonan—2-4
• Thomas Neal—2-4 R 2 RBI
• Mitch Moreland—3-5 2B 2 RBI
• Sean Coughlan—1-4 HR(3) 2 RBI 2R BB
• Jack Shuck—3-4 3B R SB(4)
• Trayvon Robinson—2-4 HR(3) RBI 3B
• Steven Caseres—1-3 HR(2) RBI
• Wilin Rosario—1-3 2B RBI R SB(1)
• Todd Johnson—3-4 HR(1) RBI
• Matthew Sweeney—3-4 2 2B R
• Alex Liddi—3-4 2B R RBI SB(1)

Pitching:

• Jeremy Hefner—5 Ip 8H 3 Er BB 9K L(0-3)
• Clayton Tanner—5.2 IP 4H ER BB 5K W(1-0)
• Connor Graham—5 IP 5H Er 2 BB 2K W(2-0)
• Juan Ramirez—5 IP 5H 2 ER BB 6K
• Alexander Torres—5 IP 6H 2 ER BB 7K

CAROLINA AND FLORIDA STATE LEAGUE

The FSL played just one game and all but one game was rained out in the Carolina League.  The Kinston Indians slapped up 16 runs against Myrtle Beach which means that there are several nice performances to report, but I am going to opt to give top player honors to underachieving prospect Tyler Colvin.  Colvin hit his first HR of the year and scored three runs for Daytona.

FSL and Carolina League Player of the Day—TYLER COLVIN

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Tim Fedroff—3-7 2R 2B SB(3)
• Cord Phelps—3-5 2B 2R 2 RBI BB
• Lonnie Chisenhall—3-5 2R RBI BB
• Ron Rivas—3-5 2B 2R 3 RBI BB
• Alex Castillo—2-4 HR(1) 4 RBI 2 BB
• Roman Pena—1-1 GS HR(2) 4 RBI 2 BB SB(3)
• Freddie Freeman—1-3 2B
• Tyler Colvin—3-5 HR(1) RBI 3R
• Marquez Smith—2-4 2 RBI R
• Russ Canzler—2-4 2B RBI 2R
• Moises Sierra—2-4 HR(1) RBI

Pitching:

• Jeanmar Gomez—6 IP 2H UER 2 BB 3K W(1-2)
• Marcos Mateo—4 IP 2H BB K

High-A Weekend Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 20, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

FLORIDA STATE LEAGUE

There were several players that had nice weekends in the FSL.  The Cubs’ Marquez Smith hit HR’s in back to back days and the Brewers’ young OF prospect Zealous Wheeler collected four hits and five RBI.  Nobody compared to what big Michael Stanton did, though, as the Marlins future superstar enjoyed a seven hit weekend that included two HR’s, six RBI, and three runs scored.  Stanton’s bat is heating up and he is showing all signs of going on a prolonged power binge.

Florida State League Player of the Weekend—MICHAEL STANTON

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Marquez Smith—1-4 HR(2) 3 RBI (Sat.)…..1-4 HR(3) 2 RBI (Sun.)
• Michael Bertram—2-4 2B 3 RBI
• Joe Benson—2-3 HR(1) RBI
• Michael Stanton—2-3 HR(2) 2 RBI 2 BB 2R (Sat.)…..5-5 HR(3) 4 RBI 2B R (Sun.)
• Matt Dominguez—2-5 2B (Sat.)…..2-5 2B R (Sun.)
• MIguel Fermin—3-4 2B SB(4)
• Jose Garcia—2-3 2B 2R
• Jermaine Curtis—2-4 2B R RBI
• Austin Romine—1-3 2B 3 RBI (Sat.)…..2-3 2B (Sun.)
• Caleb Gindl—1-4 HR(1) 2 RBI
• Eric Farris—2-4 3R BB 2 SB(3)
• Logan Schafer—2-5 R 2 RBI
• Brent Brewer—2-4 RBI R SB(3)
• Zelous Wheeler—2-5 2 2B 2 RBI R (Sat.)…..2-4 3 RBI (Sun.)
• Neftali Soto—4-4 HR(1) RBI
• Yonder Alonso—2-4 2B 3 RBI BB
• Jesus Montero—3-4 HR(2) RBI 2B
• Cole Gillespie—3-3 2R 2 RBI BB SB(3)
• Reese Havens—1-4 HR(2) RBI

Pitching:

• Charlie Furbush—5 IP 3H BB 4K W(1)
• Jeff Allison—6 IP 4H ER 5K W(1)
• Ryan Zink—5 IP 5H BB 4K
• Yohan Flande—7 IP 7H BB 4K W(2)
• John Axleford—2 IP 6K W(2)
• Eric Niesen—5 IP 3H UER 3 BB 5K
• Darin Downs—9 IP 6H 2 ER 7K W(2)

CAROLINA LEAGUE

Not as much action as the FSL, but the big boys played well all weekend long.  Jason Heyward raised his batting average to .325 with a 4-6 weekend that included third HR and three runs scored.  Teammate Cody Johnson blasted his fifth and sixth HR’s and Pedro Alvarez and Michael Burgess each hit their second on Sunday.  The top honors go to Royals #1 prospect Mike Moustakas, though, for his two HR, five RBI weekend that has helped him emerge from an early season slump.

Carolina League Player of the Weekend—MIKE MOUSTAKAS

Other Notable Peformances

Hitting:

• Michael Jones—3-3 HR(1) RBI 2R 3B
• Kraig Binick—2-5 HR(2) 2 RBI 2R SB(2)
• Mike Moustakas—2-4 HR(1) 3 RBI 2B 2R (Sat.)…..1-4 HR(2) 2 RBI 2R BB (Sun.)
• Jason Heyward—2-3 2B R BB (Sat.)…..2-3 HR(3) RBI 2B 2R (Sun.)
• Cody Johnson—1-4 HR(5) RBI (Sat.)…..1-4 HR(6) 2 RBI (Sun.)
• David Espinosa—2-3 2B R BB SB(5) (Sat.)…..1-3 2 BB 3R (Sun.)
• Matt McBride—3-5 2 HR(2) 3 RBI 2R
• Jordan Danks—2-3 2B 2R BB
• Chris Marrero—3-5 2B 2R RBI
• Michael Burgess—2-4 2B 2R HR(2) 3 RBI
• Pedro Alvarez—2-3 HR(3) RBI 2R BB
• Miles Durham—3-5 2B 2 RBI
• Alex Presley—2-5 2B 2R RBI
• Ryan Kalish—2-4 2 RBI 2R BB SB(4)
• Kris Negron—2-4 3B 2R BB
• Matt Sheely—3-5 R 2 RBI 2 SB(2)
• Caleb Joseph—3-4 HR(2) 2 RBI
• Jim Gallagher—2-2 HR(1) RBI 3 BB 3R 2B
• Roman Pena—2-3 HR(1) 3 RBI 2R 2B 2 BB

Pitching:

• Brian Matusz—6 IP 7H 3 UER 2 BB 8K L(1)
• Brad Myers—5.2 IP 6H Er 4K W(1)
• Everett Teaford—5 IP 4H Er 5K W(1)

CALIFORNIA LEAGUE

Several top prospects had nice single game performances, but no one “dominated the weekend”.  The Giants have to be thrilled with the early returns from their top prospects, as Angel Villalona, Nick Noonan, Brandon Crawford each continued to play well.  Matthew Sweeney looks like he is a darkhorse power prospect as he collected two more RBI.  On the mound, Josh Collimenter tossed six two-hit innings, walking one and striking out nine en route to his second win of the season, but the player of the weekend was Oakland’s OF prospect Matt Spencer.  Spencer homered on both Saturday and Sunday, driving in three and scoring three times.

California League Player of the Weekend—MATT SPENCER

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Juan Diaz—4-5 2B 2 RBI R
• Matthew Sweeney—2-4 HR(3) 2 RBI
• Brandon Crawford—3-6 HR(3) 2 RBI
• Matt Spencer—2-4 HR(2) 2 RBI 2B BB SB(1) (Sat.)…..1-4 HR(3) RBI 2R BB (Sun.)
• Felix Carrasco—3-5 2 RBI R (Sat.)…..2-4 HR(1) 3 RBI BB (Sun.)
• Matt Lawson—3-5 2B R SB(3)
• Vance Zawadski—3-3 R 2 BB 3 SB(9)
• Nick Noonan—3-5 HR(2) 2 RBI 2R
• Angel Villalona—2-5 HR(3) RBI
• Mike MItchell—2-5 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Charlie Blackmon—1-2 2B R 2 RBI 2 BB 2 SB(3)
• Eddie Colina—2-5 2 2B 2R RBI
• Kuo Hui Lo—3-5 2 3B 3 RBI R

Pitching:

• Tim Sexton—6 IP 4H 2 BB 3K
• Josh Collimenter—6 IP 2H BB 9K W(2)
• Corey Kluber—7 IP Er BB 7K W(2)
• Alberto Bastardo—7 IP 2H 6K W(2)
• Michael Pineda—7 IP 6H 3 ER 8K W(2)

4/16 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 18, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

CALIFORNIA LEAGUE

Slugger-in-waiting Angel Villalona went yard for the second time and Madison Bumgarner pitched well enough to earn his second win of the season. The Padres’ top international signing Yefri Carvajal hit his first HR.  Diamonbacks top prospect Jarrod Parker tossed five dominant innings allowing just two hits and striking out seven, but the Padres’ Corey Luebke was even better shutting out Modesto for seven innings, allowing two hits and striking out eight.

California League Player of the Day—COREY LUEBKE

Other Notable Performances:

• Angel Villalona—2-3 HR(2) 2 RBI
• Buster Posey—1-3 2B R BB
• Madison Bumgarner—5 IP 4H UER 2 BB 4K W(2)
• Craig Italiano—5 IP 2H 2 ER 3 BB 6K L(2)
• Jason Castr0—2-4 RBI
• Chris Jackson—1-2 2R 3 BB
• Preston Mattingly—1-4 HR(1) 2 RBI
• Steven Caseres—2-4 RBI
• Matthew Sweeney—2-4
• Jeremy Moore—2-4 2B
• P.J. Phillips—2-4 R RBI
• Efren Navarro—1-4 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Tim Kiely—7 IP 3H 8K W(1)
• Collin Cowgill—1-4 HR(3) RBI
• Jarrod Parker—5 IP 2H 7K
• Charlie Blackmon—2-3 R BB
• Yefri Carvajal—2-4 HR(1) 2 RBI
• Andrew Parrino—2-5 2B R
• Logan Forsythe—1-3 BB 2B
• Corey Luebke—7 IP 2H BB 8K W(1)

CAROLINA LEAGUE

It was a banner day for the top prospects in the Carolina League.  Chris Marrero doubled twice and drove in three runs, Jordan Danks had three hits, including his second HR, and drove in two.  Mike Moustakas also had two hits and a couple of RBI while Jason Heyward went 3-3 with his second HR, three RBI, two runs scored and two walks.  That performance alone would be enough to win the award, but Pirates 3B Pedro Alvarez delivered big time with his second HR and six RBI in a win over Winston-Salem.

Carolina League Player of the Day—PEDRO ALVAREZ

Other Notable Performances:

• David Espinosa—1-2 R 2 BB 2 SB(4)
• Chris Marrero—2-4 2 2B 3 RBi R
• Jason Place—3-4 2B 2 RBI SB(1)
• Tom Milone—6 IP 6H ER BB 7K
• Jordan Danks—2-5 HR(2) 2 RBI 2B
• Brent Morel—2-5 2B SB(4)
• Christian Marrero—2-5 2B R
• Seth Loman—1-3 2B R 2 RBI BB
• Pedro Alvarez—2-4 HR(2) 6 RBI
• Jose De Los Santos—2-4 3R 2B RBI BB
• Alex Presley—2-4 2R RBI
• Mike Moustakas—3-5 2B 2 RBI R
• Jeff Bianchi—2-4 R BB
• Johnny Giavotella—2-5 R
• Clint Robinson—1-4 2B R 2 RBI
• Tim Fedroff—3-5 2 2B R
• Matt McBride—2-3 2b BB
• Eric Berger—5 IP 5H Er 2 BB 8K
• Jason Heyward—3-3 HR(2) 3 RBI 2 BB 2R
• Freddie Freeman—1-4 RBI BB
• Matt Fischer—2-5 2B 2R
• Zach Britton—4 IP 5H 2 ER 2 BB 5K
• Tyler Henson—1-3 2R 2 BB SB(2)

FLORIDA STATE LEAGUE

Unlike the Carolina League, there weren’t any mind blowing performances to speak of.  Zack Stewart looked good in his second consecutive start, as did Dellin Betances and Duane Below.  Tommy Hickman hit his first HR, but the top player award goes to Twins speedster and future lead off hitter Ben Revere.  The former first rounder went 2-3 with a dobule, three RBI and two bases on balls.

Florida State League Player of the Day—BEN REVERE

Other Notable Performances:

• Jermaine Curtis—2-3 2R
• Francisco Rivera—1-2 2B 3 RBI
• Zach Stewart—5 IP 5H ER BB 6K
• Nick Additon—4 IP H 2 BB K
• Yonderman Rodriguez—2-3 BB R
• Arlon Quiroz—2-2 2B RBI SB(2)
• Duane Below—5.2 IP 7H ER 9K L(1)
• Carlos Montaserios—7 IP 3H BB 4K W(1)
• Andy Dirks—2-4 2B 3 RBI
• Emeel Salem—3-6 RBI R BB SB(1)
• Reese Havens—3-6 2 RBI R
• Zachary Lutz—2-6 RBI
• Kirk Nieuwenhuis—3-4 BB
• Jenrry Mejia—5 IP 6H ER BB 3K
• Eric Thames—3-4 2 RBI
• Darin Mastroianni—2-5 2B RBI R
• Justin Jackson—1-5 2B 2R
• Raul Barron—2-4 2R SB(3)
• Marquez Smith—1-4 HR(1) 2 RBI
• Thomas Hickman—1-4 HR(1) 2 RBI
• Ben Revere—2-3 2B R 3 RBI 2 BB
• Matt Dominguez—1-3 BB
• Kyle Winters—6 Ip 5H BB 4K
• David Bromberg—5 IP 4H ER 3 BB 4K
• Jesus Montero—1-3 BB
• Brent Brewer—1-4 2B R
• Lee Haydel—2-3 RBI
• Cole Gillespie—1-4 RBI SB(2)
• Dellin Betances—5.1 IP 8H 2 ER BB 7K L(1)

4/15 High-A Minor League Baseball

Posted by Jeremy on April 16, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

CALIFORNIA LEAGUE

Timmy Smith’s 5-5 day and even Buster Posey’s 3-3 day that included a HR, double, three runs and two RBI were not enough to win top player honors.  Juan Ramirez surrendered just one hit over 5.1 innings and Alexander Torres did the same in five innings while striking out seven, but even those performances were not enough to out do teammates Jonathan Gaston and Brian Pellegrini who combined to hit six HR, nine RBI and score six runs.

California League Players of the Day Jon Gaston & Brian Pellegrini

Other Notable Performances:

• Brian Rike—2-4 2B RBI R
• Radamez Nazario—3-3 2B R BB
• Carlos Hernandez—6 IP 5H ER BB 3K
• Tyson Gillies—2-4 2R 2B BB SB(2)
• Alex Liddi—3-4 2 2B 3B 2R
• James McOwen—1-4 HR(1) 2 RBI BB
• Juan Ramirez—5.1 IP H 3 BB K W(2)
• Jeremy Hefner—5 IP 6h 3 ER 9K L(2)
• Timmy Smith—5-5 2B 2R RBI SB(2)
• Ian Gac—2-5 2B 2R RBI
• Matt Lawson—3-5 HR(2) RBI
• Angel Villalona—2-4 2B 2R RBI
• Brandon Crawford—1-3 2 BB 2 SB(2)
• Buster Posey—3-3 HR(3) 2 RBI 2B 3R 2 BB SB(1)
• Conor Gillespie—1-3 R 2 BB
• Eduardo Perez—3-4 2B R
• Trayvon Robinson—2-5 2B
• Kenly Jansen—2-4 R
• Garett Green—2-3 RBI
• Jonathan Gaston—4-5 3 HR(4) 5 RBI 3R
• Brian Pellegrini—3-5 3 HR(5) 4 RBI 3R
• Eric Taylor—3-4 2B 3 RBI SB(1)
• Jason Castro—2-5 2R 3B RBI
• Jose Duran—5 IP 9H ER 2 BB 3K W(1)
• Ed Easley—1-3 2B 2R 2 BB
• Matthew Sweeney—2-3 2B RBI R BB
• Andrew Romine—1-4 R SB(3)
•  Jeremy Moore—2-4 2B
• Alexander Torres—5 IP H 2 BB 7K

FLORIDA STATE LEAGUE

Logan Schafer had a nice double header, combining for four hits, a HR and three RBI.  Matt Rizzotti drove in four with two runs scored and Deolis Guerra threw a scorless five inning start.  The hands down player of the day in the FSL is none other than Phillies RHP Kyle Drabek who surrendered four hits over seven scoreless innings striking out nine for his second win of the season.  Drabek is rocketing along his comeback trail and is quickly becoming the top prospect Philly thought he would be.

Florida State League Player of the Day—KYLE DRABEK

Other Notable Performances:

• Jesus Montero—1-3 2B R
• Matt Cusick—1-2 2 RBI BB R
• Logan Schafer—2-3 RBI SB(1) (Gm 1)…2-4 HR(1) 2 RBI R (Gm 2)
• Lee Haydel—1-3 2B R
• Zelous Wheeler—1-3 RBI R
• Steffan Wilson—2-3 R
• Ryan Zink—5 IP 4H ER 3K W(1)
• Caleb Gindl—2-3 3B
• Cole Gillespie—1-3 2B R
• Brent Brewer—2-3 R RBI
• Kyle Drabek—7 IP 4H 9K W(2)
• Dominic Brown—2-5 2B R
• Matt Rizzotti—2-2 2B 4 RBI 2R
• Derrick Mitchell—2-4 HR(1) RBI 2R
• Freddy Galvis—2-4 2R RBI BB
• Tim Kennelly—2-4 R RBI
• Michael Stanton—2-4
• Matt Dominguez—1-3 2B
• Rene Leveret—3-3 2B RBI R
• Deolis Guerra—5 IP 3H BB 4K W(1)
• Ben Revere—1-3 R SB(2)
• Carlos Gutierrez—5 IP 4H ER 3K
• Ike Davis—3-4 2B RBI R
• Brad Holt—6 IP 4H BB 7K W(1)
• Alex Cobb—5.2 IP 6H 2 UER BB 4K L(1)
• Eric Thames—1-4 2B R RBI
• Kevin Ahrens—1-4 2B RBI
• Tim Collins—3 IP 0H 6K W(1)
• Alex Buchholz—2-4 2 2B R
• Pete Kozma—2-3 2B 2R 2 RBI BB SB(1)
• Curt Smith—1-3 3B RBI BB
• Lance Lynn—4 IP 2H 2 BB 3K

CAROLINA LEAGUE

Mike Moustakas’ bat is starting to heat up and Christian Marrero, Brent Morel, Jeff Bianchi, Billy Rowell, and Jordy Mercer all hit their first HR’s yesterday.  Danny Duffy continues to look like a dominant LHP, tossing five shutout innings with six K’s and Red Sox prospects Jason Place and Luis Exposito combined to drive in and score four runs.  It was teammate Ryan Kalish who takes home top player honors, though, with his first HR, two RBI and four runs scored.

Carolina League Player of the Day—RYAN KALISH

Other Notable Performances:

• Christian Marrero—2-4 HR(1) RBI
• Brent Morel—1-4 HR(1) RBI
• Jordy Mercer—1-4 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Jose De Los Santos—1-3 3R BB SB(5)
• Daniel Hague—2-4 2B RBI
• Pedro Alvarez—1-3 RBI
• Mike Moustakas—2-5 2R 2 RBI
• Derrick Robinson—1-3 R BB SB(5)
• Jeff Bianchi—2-5 HR(1) 3 RBI 2B
• Clint Robinson—2-4 RBI
• Lonnie Chisenhall—2-4 RBI
• Matt Brown—2-3 BB SB(1)
• Daniel Duffy—5 IP 3H BB 6K W(1)
• Billy Rowell—1-2 HR(1) RBI 2 BB
• Tyler Henson—1-3 2B RBI BB
• Pedro Florimon Jr.—1-4 2B 2R BB
• Jeff Locke—4 IP 2H 2 ER 3 BB 6K
• Ryan Kalish—2-3 HR(1) 2 RBI 4R 2 BB
• Jason Place—3-5 2B 2 RBI 3R
• Luis Exposito—2-5 2B R 3 RBI
• Michael Jones 3-5 3 RBI

4/14 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 15, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

CAROLINA LEAGUE

Freddie Freeman and Cody Johnson both homered, but Brian Matusz was able to pitche well enough to earn a win against Myrtle Beach.  Salvador Sanchez hit his third HR of the season, but it was the Indians’ 21 year old flame thrower Kelvin De La Cruz who takes home top prospect honors after his electifying six inning, nine strikeout shutout performance en route to his second win of the year.  This effort comes on the heels of a season debut in which he struck out 10 hitters over six innings.

Carolina League Player of the Day—KELVIN DE LA CRUZ

Other Notable Performances:

• Salvador Sanchez—1-3 HR(3) 2 RBI 2R BB
• Jordy Mercer—2-5 R RBI SB(1)
• David Hague—3-4 2 RBI
• Kelvin De La Cruz—6 IP 4H 9K W(2)
• Alex Caldera—5 IP 4H ER BB 2K L(1)
• Tyler Henson—1-4 2 RBI R 2 BB SB(1)
• Brandon Waring—1-4 HR(1) 2 RBI 2R BB
• Caleb Joseph—3-5 RBI R
• Pedro Florimon Jr.—2-5 2R SB(1)
• Chris Vineyard—1-3 2B 2 RBI 2 BB
• Brian Matusz—5 IP 4H 3 ER 3 BB 6K W(1)
• Jason Heyward—2-4 2B R
• Freddie Freeman—1-4 HR(2) 2 RBI
• Cody Johnson—2-3 HR(4) RBI 2B 2R BB

FLORIDA STATE LEAGUE

Darin Mastroianni is the early clubhouse leader with six stolen bases this year, but Greg Veloz is closing in gathering his fourth yesterday.  The Cardinals’ younger OF prospect Shane Peterson (they have two in their system) continues to hit gathering two hits and an RBI but it was Adron Chambers who blew away the competition with a 4-4 two triple, two run game.

Florida State League Player of the Game—ADRON CHAMBERS

Other Notable Performances:

• Justin Reed—1-4 3B R RBI BB SB(2)
• Adron Chambers—4-4 2 3B 2R RBI SB(1)
• Shane Peterson—2-4 RBI
• Pete Kozma—1-5 2B 2 RBI
• Matt Fields—1-4 HR(3) 2 RBI
• Greg Veloz—2-5 R SB(4)
• Ike Davis—2-4
• Zach Lutz—2-5 2B RBI
• Darin Mastroianni—2-2 3B 3 BB 2 SB(6)
• Eric Thames—2-4 2R 3 RBI 3B BB
• Kevin Ahrens—1-4 2B RBI BB
• Russ Canzler—2-4 2R

CALIFORNIA LEAGUE

Collin Cowgill and Mitch Moreland went deep on Wednesday and Chris Minaker, Jose Felix, and Jonathan Greene each rapped four hits.  On the mound, Trevor Reckling threw six quality innings in a losing effort, and Corey Kluber did the same with winning results.  The player of the day is Giants top prospect Buster Posey whos 3-4 day included a double, walk and two RBI.  Posey is heating up and should move quickly through San Francisco’s talented farm system.

California League Player of the Day—BUSTER POSEY

Other Notable Performances:

• Alex Liddi—2-4
• Danny Payne—2-4 2R 3B 2 RBI
• Logan Forsythe—1-3 2B BB 2R
• Ali Solis—1-3 2B BB 2R
• Corey Kluber—6 IP 3H 6K W(1)
• Engel Beltre—2-5 2B 2R SB(3)
• Mitch Moreland—3-4 HR(1) 2 RBI
• Matt Lawson—2-4 2 RBI SB(1)
• Jonathan Greene—4-5 2B 2R RBI
• Jose Felix—4-5 2B R 3 RBI
• Buster Posey—3-4 2B 2 RBI R BB
• Brandon Crawford—1-4 2R BB
• Angel Villalona—2-4 RBI
• Darren Ford—2-5 R
• Scott Van Slyke—2-4 2B RBI
• Chris Minaker—4-4 R RBI
• Shane Wolf—5 IP 5H 2 ER BB 9K
• Bryan Shaw—5 IP 5H ER 4K W(1)
• Collin Cowgill—2-4 HR(2) 2 RBI SB(2)
• Ed Easley—1-4 2 RBI
• Manny Ferrer—2-4 2R SB(1)
• Trevor Reckling—6 IP 4H ER 6K L(1)
• Jeremy Moore—2-4 2B R
• Efren Navarro—2-3 2B

4/12 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 13, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

Let’s start with the Florida State League which played no games on Sunday, but had a full docket of games on Saturday.  Jesus Montero went yard for the first time this season but Ben Revere upstaged him going 3-6 with his first HR, three RBI and two runs scored.

Florida State League Player of the Day—BEN REVERE

Other Notable Performances:

• Justin Reed—2-3 HR(1) RBI 2R SB(1)
• Greg Veloz—2-5 2B R SB(3)
• Reese Havens—1-4 2B RBI
• Carlos Guzman—2-4
• Scott Shaw—5 IP 4H Er 5K
• Zach Stewart—4 IP 6H ER BB 3K
• Jesus Montero—2-4 HR(1) RBI BB
• Brandon Laird—3-5 2B RBI
• Charlie Furbush—4 IP 5H 6K
• Andy Dirks—2-5 RBI R SB(3)
• Michael Stanton—2-4 RBI
• Matt Dominguez—1-3 BB R
• Alejandro Sanabia—5.2 IP 3H BB 4K W(1)
• Pete Kozma—2-4 2B
• Shane Peterson—2-4 RBI
• Justin Jackson—2-5 2R SB(2)
• Kevin Ahrens—2-4 2R RBI BB SB(1)
• Eric Thames—1-2 2B R 2 RBI BB SB(1)
• Dominic Brown—1-3 2R 2 BB
• Tim Kennelly—1-5 2B 3 RBI
• Derrick Mitchell—2-4 2B R
• Dan McDaniel—6 IP H BB 3K W(1)
• Nate Samson—1-3 R RbvI
• Russ Canzler—2-3 RBI
• Evan Anundsen—6 IP 6H ER BB 3K L(1)
• Ben Revere—3-6 HR(1) 3 RBI 2R
• Joe Benson—2-5 2B 2R 2 RBI
• Deibinson Romero—3-5 2B 3 RBI
• Chris Parmelee—1-4 HR(2) RBI 2R BB
• Ryan Royster—2-4 2B RBI BB R

Sunday’s action in the Carolina League saw Freddie Freeman rack up three hits and two RBI while Ryan Kalish and Derrick Robinson each had a couple of hits and a stolen base.  On the mound, excellent pitching performances from Tim Bascom and Zach Putnam resulted in winning results, but Cole Rohrbough trumped them all with a five inning, four hit, six strikeout performance against Wilmington.

Florida State League Player of the Game—COLE ROHRBOUGH

Other Notable Performances:

• Matt McBride—2-4 2 2B 2R 2 RBI
• Lonnie Chisenhall—2-5 R RBI
• Tim Fedroff—0-2 3 BB R 2 SB(2)
• Zach Putnam—5 IP 5H Er 2 BB 5K W(1)
• Ryan Adams—2-5 2B
• Brandon Waring—2-4 RBI
• Billy Rowell—1-3 2B BB
• Tim Bascom—5 IP 4H BB 2K W(1)
• Ryan Kalish—2-3 R SB(2) BB
• Eddie Prasch—1-1 2B R 2 RBI
• Chi-Hung Cheng—4 IP 2H 2 BB K
• Derrick Robinson—2-4 R RBI BB SB(4)
• Mike Moustakas—1-4 2B RBI
• Cole Rohrbough—5 IP 4H ER BB 6K W(1)
• Freddie Freeman—3-4 2B R 2 RBI
• Jason Heyward—1-5 2B R

Buster Posey and Alex Liddi blasted their first California League HR’s while Roger Keischnick and Conor Gillespie rapped three hits each.  The top player award goes to Brandon Crawford for his perfect 3-3 day that included his second HR of the year, two RBI and two runs scored.

California League Player of the Day—BRANDON CRAWFORD 

Other Notable Performances:

• Mitch Moreland—1-4 2B R RBI
• Willin Rosario—2-3 2B
• Mike Kirkman—7 IP H 3 BB 8K W(1)
• Bruce Billings—6 IP 2H 4 UER 2 BB 7K L(1)
• Brandon Crawford—3-3 HR(2) 2 RBI 2R
• Nick Noonan—2-4 2R RBI BB
• Buster Posey—2-4 HR(1) 2 RBI
• Conor Gillespie—3-5 2B RBI R
• Roger Keischnick—3-4 R RBI
• Collin Cowgill—1-2 2R 2 BB
• Sean Coughlan—2-4 HR(1) 2 RBI 2R BB
• Kyle Greene—3-5 2B 2 RBI
• Taylor Harbin—2-4 BB
• Patrick McAnaney—5 IP 4H ER BB 5K W(1)
• Jason Castro—2-4 R
• Jonathan Geston—1-4 HR(1) 2 RBI 2R
• Alex Liddi—1-4 HR(1) RBI
• Joe Dunigan 2-3 3B RBI R BB
• Chris Hicks—5 IP 4H 2 ER BB 6K W(1)