7/27 AA Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on July 28, 2009 under Uncategorized | Be the First to Comment

Cleveland Indians 1B prospect Beau Mills rapped two more homeruns last night, raising his season total to 10.  Yesterday’s pair of HR’s marks the first time this season that Mills has went yard in back to back games.  He’s been, in my opinion, a mild disappointment during his first full year at AA, hitting .261 with 10 HR 54 RBI and 22 doubles.  His contact numbers are solid with just 64 K’s in 101 games, but he’s walked just 24 times and has a .305 OBP. June and July has shown an uptick in his numbers and could be an indicator of a strong finish to his season.  The Indians just traded Ryan Garko last night to the San Francisco Giants which should open up a litany of future options for the Tribe at 1B.  Will they move LaPorta there or, perhaps, Nick Weglarz or Wes Hodges?  My gut says that Mills is still the long term guy and a strong finish to his ‘09 season will go a long way towards confirming that thought.

Kyle Drabek had a solid outing last night in what may be his last as a member of the Philadelphia Phillies organization.  Drabek tossed seven innings, allowing seven hits and two earned runs while striking out five en route to his 11th win on the season.  Drabek has been at the center of trade rumors as a primary piece in the deal that could potentially send Roy Halladay to the Phillies.  Philadelphia’s hesitance to trade him is a primary indicator on just how far he has come this season.  Last year, the 21 year old battled injuries and concerns about his make up but his future really seemed to turn towards the positive after a strong showing in the Hawaiian Winter League.  The value of Drabek’s 2006 and 2007 autos will be strongest if he remains a member of the Phillies.  Philadelphia remains a major market team primed to sustain a long run of success in the NL East.  However if Drabek is dealt, the opportunity for him to make a 2009 MLB debut rises significantly and with that the short term value of his cards. 

Today’s top AA prospect is another elite pitching prospect, Brian Matusz.  Seven innings of four hit, six strikeout ball raises his perfect AA record to 7-0 and gives him 11 total wins this season.  Chris Tillman was just called up by the Orioles to make his MLB debut and to further rub salt into the wounds of the Seattle Mariners who just recently put much maligned starter Erik Bedard on the DL….again.  The move by the O’s may soon open up a spot for Matusz to move up another notch to AAA Norfolk.  I expect that this will happen within his next couple of starts.  Matusz’s 2008 Razor cards range from about $12-15 for his Exclusive autos and $15-18 for his serial #’ed cards.  If he gets the call in September, these cards could jump significantly.

AA Player of the Day—BRIAN MATUSZ

 


Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Jordan Danks—2-5 R RBI
• C.J. Retherford—2-4 2B RBI BB
• Michael Stanton—1-4 HR(22) 3 RBI
• Logan Morrison—1-3 HR(6) RBI
• Josh Thole—4-5 2B 3R BB SB(5)
• Ike Davis—2-6 2B R
• Lucas Duda—1-5 2B 2 RBI 2R BB
• D.J. Wabick—3-6 HR(2) 6 RBI 2R
• Nick Weglarz—2-4 HR(14) 2 RBI
• Carlos Santana—1-4 HR(19) RBI
• Beau Mills—2-4 2 HR(10) 2 RBI
• Michael Daniel—3-4 HR(4) 3 RBI 2R BB
• Josh Reddick—2-4 2B R BB
• Ryan Kalish—1-4 HR(10) RBI
• Mitch Moreland—2-5 R RBI
• Taylor Green—2-5 2B HR(6) 2 RBI
• Lorenzo Cain—1-3 HR(2) 2 RBI BB
• Corey Wimberley—3-4 3 RBI BB R 2 SB(14)
• Matt Sulentic—2-3 2B 2R 2 RBI BB SB(19)
• Chris Carter—1-4 2B 2R 2 RBI 2 BB
• Tony Thomas—2-4 HR(9) 2 RBI 2R
• Mark Reed—2-4 2R 2B 2 RBI

Pitching:

• Tommy Mendoza—7 IP 4H ER 3K
• Tyson Ross—6 IP 4H Er BB 3K W (6-6)
• Steven Johnson—6 IP 3H BB 7K W (9-5)
• Luis Atilano—7 IP 6H 2 BB 3K W (5-7)
• Dylan Owen—5 IP 6H 3 BB 3K
• Brian Matusz—7 IP 4H 3 BB 6K W (11-2)
• Kyle Drabek—7 IP 7H 2 ER 5K W (9-5)

7/20 AA Minor League Report

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

Pedro Alvarez is red hot right now.

The former #2 overall pick of last year’s draft was decent in his stint with High-A Lynchburg and got off to a molasses-like start after his promotion to Altoona, but the last 10 games has seen Alvarez post a .368 BA with 3 HR 6 RBI and 9 runs scored.  Alvarez is a highly potent all-star hitter in the making, but his high K rates, low batting average and spotty defense has detracted from his overall performance.  All told, the sum is greater than its parts.  Alvarez is clicking right now offensively, and his 19 HR and 67 RBI are on par with expectations.  I believe that he will continue to raise his average from its current .255 level to finish around .270-.280. 

Will he earn a September callup?  Tough to say.  My gut says yes, but it was the Pirates that were so glacially slow in giving Andrew McCutchen his debut.  While that worked to McCutchen’s benefit, I think they will not exercise the same patience with Alvarez.  His collegiate resume and immediate power impact keeps him on the fast track to Pittsburgh and nothing that Andy LaRoche or Neil Walker can do will stop it.  Alvarez has a major league contract and it makes complete sense for the Bucs to get a first hand look at exactly what they have in the former Vanderbilt superstar.  Expect him to be one of the September callups unless injury or a complete collapse in his performance happens before then.

Today’s top AA prospect is Boston Red Sox catcher turned first baseman, turned outfielder, turned eventual DH Jon Still.  The Red Sox slugger blasted two HR and drove in seven runs yesterday in Portland’s 16-1 massacre over New Britain yesterday.  Despite his career day, Still has been a big disappoint me to me this year.  The former 2006 draftee is hitting .239 with 13 HR 61 RBI and 26 doubles this year, but his 27 BB/103 K’s is far and away his worst showing in his professional career.  Despite hitting .302 with 16 RBI over his last 10 games, Still has struck out 18 times and has failed to draw a walk during the same timeframe.  I think that he is going to continue to decline in his production as he progresses until he joins the Jeff Bailey, Aaron Bates and Chris Carter ranks of the organization as a player who makes the frequent treks between Pawtucket and Boston.  Look to see if the market for his stuff jumps after a few good performances and sell accordingly.

AA Player of the Day—JON STILL

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Michael Daniel—3-4 BB
• Brennan Boesch—1-4 HR(18) 2 RBI
• Mike McBryde—1-4 HR(4) 3 RBI 2R
• Ike Davis—2-4 HR(12) 2 RBI 2 RBI BB
• Josh Thole—2-5 2B 2R 2 RBI
• Ruben Tejada—3-4 2R
• Josh Reddick—3-6 HR(13) 2 RBI 3R
• Ryan Khoury—3-5 4R BB
• Jon Still—3-6 2 HR(13) 7 RBI 3R
• Ryan Kalish—2-5 HR(9) 2B 2 RBI BB
• Jorge Jimenez—3-5 HR(10) 4 RBI 2 2B 4R BB
• Argenis Diaz—2-5 2B RBI
• Pedro Alvarez—3-4 2 2B 2 RBI 2R
• Brian Friday—1-3 HR(7) 2 RBI BB
• Jim Negrych—2-4 2 2B 2R
• Quentin Berry—2-4 R 2 SB(34)
• Reegie Corona—2-3 R 2 BB
• Jesus Montero—2-4 HR(15) RBI BB
• David Cooper—1-3 2B 2 RBI 2 BB
• Jeremy Moore—2-3 HR(8) 2 RBI 2R
• Mark Trumbo—2-5 R RBI
• Jarrod Dyson—2-4 2R 3 SB(21)
• Drew Locke—2-4 2B 2R
• Matt Spencer—3-5 2B 2 RBI R
• Josh Horton—2-5 2B 2R
• James Rapoport—2-5 2B R 2 BB
• Tyler Henley—3-5 2B R RBI

Pitching:

• Blake Beavan—6.1 IP 8H 2 ER K L (6-7)
• Corey Kluber—6 IP 4H BB 6K W (8-9)
• Adam Mills—7 IP 5H Er 2 BB 5K W (7-5)

7/5 AA Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on July 6, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

L.A. Dodgers OF/1B prospect Andrew Lambo is swinging a hot bat through the first few days of July.  Yesterday’s 3-5 performance that included his 8th HR, five RBI and two runs scored raised his average to .438 for the month and .275 overall.  On the surface, Lambo’s HR numbers are a little below expected, but his 26 doubles and improved BB/K ratio are positive signs of good things to come.  Talent abounds on the Dodgers’ major league roster, especially in the outfield where the trifecta of Manny Ramirez, Andre Ethier, and Matt Kemp rivals baseball’s best.  Couple in James Loney’s sweet lefty swing at 1B and the fact that Lambo is still just 20 years old and it becomes apparent that the Dodgers will be unlikely to rush Lambo in his development.  Once he does arrive on the major league scene, Lambo is a likely bet to become a 20-25 HR middle of the lineup hitter for several years to come.

Greg Halman’s season has been, in large part, a major disappointment after his breakout 2008 season in which he was nearly a 30 HR/30 SB player.  Playing almost exclusively at West Tennessee, Halman is batting just .208 with 20 HR 50 RBI and just 5 SB.  Plate discipline is the biggest culprit as Halman has walked just 16 times and has punched out 119 times in just 71 games.  Halman’s all or nothing approach to hitting is frustrating as some days (like yesterday’s 2 HR 3 RBI 4 run day) he looks like a 5-tool elite prospect and other days he resembles the extremely raw player that struggled in 2007.  At just 21 years old, there is ample time for Halman to address his contact issues and pitch recognition.  The tools and athleticism is there for Halman to be a dynamic player at the major league level, but his future success is anything but a foregone conclusion.  Watch to see if he can improve his ability to control the strike zone before making any substantial investments in his cards.

Today’s top AA prospect is another 2008 breakout player Florida Marlins 1B prospect Logan Morrison.  The powerfully built lefty had a big day yesterday hitting his 5th HR as part of a 5-6 day with two doubles, five RBI and two runs scored.  Morrison’s big day boosted his batting average for the month of July up to .455 and his 3rd HR in the last five games is a prime indicator that his fractured right wrist is close to or at full strength.  Morrison was electric in the Arizona Fall League this past winter, raising his stock significantly within the organization and amongst baseball card prospectors.  The Marlins are in an endless quest to fill big league positions with low cost talent.  Jorge Cantu is a solid first baseman who is earning $3.5 million this season and should earn more through arbitration next season.  There is a chance that the Marlins don’t offer him arbitration next year and in favor of giving Gaby Sanchez and Logan Morrison a shot to vie for the position this following spring.  The market for Morrison’s cards is strong right now, but is not quite as hot as it was when he was opening eyes in the AFL this past fall.

AA Player of the Day—LOGAN MORRISON

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Ike Davis—1-2 HR(9) RBI
• Mike McBryde—4-5 2 3B 4 RBI 2R SB(14)
• Brett Pill—2-4 2B 3 RBI
• Sharlon Schoop—2-4 2R BB 2 SB(3)
• Brock Bond—2-5 2R 3 RBI
• Carlos Rivero—3-3 R RBI
• Greg Halman—3-5 2 HR(20) 3 RBI 2B 4R
• Mike Wilson—4-4 HR(2) 4 RBI BB 2 2B 2R
• Matt Mangini—2-5 HR(6) RBI
• Logan Morrison—5-6 HR(5) 5 RBI 2 2B 2R
• Scott Cousins—3-5 2B R RBI SB(18)
• Juan Portes—2-5 2B 3 RBI
• Tyler Colvin—3-5 HR(7) 2 RBI R 2B 2R
• James Adduci—4-5 3 RBI SB(19)
• Josh Reddick—2-6 R 3B 2 RBI
• Ryan Kalish—3-5 HR(7) 2 RBI 2B 2R
• Jorge Jimenez—3-5 HR(9) 2 RBI 2R
• Argenis Diaz—2-4 2 RBI
• Lars Anderson—1-4 2B R RBI BB
• David Cooper—2-4 R RBI BB
• Dayan Viciedo—2-4 RBI
• David Lough—3-5 2B R HR(6) 3 RBI
• Alex Gordon—2-4 4 RBI
• Colin Delome—2-4 3B 2 RBI
• Andrew Lambo—3-4 HR(8) 5 RBI 2B 2R BB
• Russ Mitchell—2-5 HR(8) 3 RBI 2R BB
• Tommy Giles—1-3 HR(6) 2 RBI
• Cyle Hankerd—1-4 HR(5) RBI
• Pete Kozma—2-4 R RBI BB
• Cedric Hunter—3-4 2B 2R

Pitching:

• Ryan Mullins—8 IP 5H 8K W (6-8)
• Radhames Liz—7 IP 7H BB 7K W (3-1)
• Casey Coleman—8 IP 2H 3 BB 4K W (9-3)
• John Ely—6 IP 5H 3 ER 3 BB 5K W (7-7)
• Pat Stanley—7 IP 5H ER 2 BB 8K W (5-2)
• Eric Nielson—5 IP 5H ER 2 BB 9K
• Tim Alderson—6 IP 3H 3 ER BB 3K W (6-2)

6/30 AA Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on July 1, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

Boston Red Sox OF/C/1B/DH prospect Jon Still seems to be awakening from his June slumber by hitting his 3rd HR in the last four games.  Still had a big season at High-A Lancaster last season by hitting .265 with 22 HR 65 RBI and 30 doubles, but this year has been a different story.  Struggles with plate discipline (22 BB/79 K in 69 games) and difficulty in finding a defensive home has dropped the former N.C. State star’s stock significantly.  There is still quite a bit of power potential locked up in Still’s bat and he has shown the ability in the past to draw a high number of walks.  At 24 years old, there is still some upside to his game, but he has to rediscover his plate discipline and find a way to stick at a defensive position.  If he can, there is some hope that he can have a decent MLB future for a club not named the Boston Red Sox.

Today’s top prospect is New York Yankees catching phenom Jesus Montero.  The 19 year old Venezuelan hit two HR yesterday, his second and third since being promoted to Trenton.  Montero’s bat is special and his 8 BB/6 K ratio since being called up is yet another sign that the track to New York is going to be an accelerated one.  Don’t expect it to happen in September, as the Yankees are in the thick of a playoff hunt.  However, a trip to the Arizonza Fall League should make thing interesting the next spring.  Jorge Posada has bounced back nicely from his shoulder injury and there has been some conjecture that Montero may end up playing 1B for the Yankees in the future while Austin Romine becomes Posada’s eventual successor.  Regardless of when he dons the pinstripes, there is little doubt that Montero will be an extraordinary hitter in the Yankees’ lineup for years to come.

AA Player of the Day—JESUS MONTERO 

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Leo Davis—3-4 2B RBI R BB
• Marvin Lowrance—2-4 HR(13) 3 RBI 2B
• Brett Pill—3-4 2B 3B 2 RBI R
• Rene Tosoni—2-4 HR(10) 2 RBI
• Erik Lis—1-5 HR(6) 3 RBI
• Josh Reddick—1-4 HR(9) 2 RBI 2R BB
• Jon Still—2-3 HR(10) 3 RBI BB
• Brian Friday—1-6 HR(5) 2 RBI
• Quentin Berry—3-5 3B RBI 2 SB(24)
• Jesus Montero—2-3 2 HR(11) 3 RBI 2R BB
• Marquez Smith—2-4 HR(11) RBI 2R 2B
• Wellington Castillo—2-4 2B 2 RBI R
• Steffan Gartrell—3-6 HR(14) RBI BB
• Greg Halman—1-3 2R BB SB(5)

Pitching:

• Heath Rollins—8 IP 7H ER 5K W (7-6)
• Henry Sosa—5.1 IP 4H BB 3K

4/28 AA Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 29, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

Juan Francisco stung the ball again with three hits, including his fourth HR, and two RBI.  Rhyne Hughes hit HR number seven and pitchers Hector Rondon, George Kontos, and Bryan Augenstein all threw gems to lead their respective teams to victory.

Today’s top prospect is toolsy Mariners outfielder Greg Halman.  The native of the Netherlands has struggled out of the gate this season but Tuesday’s performance was extraordinary as he blasted two homeruns and six RBI.  Halman has all the potential to be a 30/30 man at the major league level, but his plate discipline remains raw and renders him less effective against more polished pitchers.  Nevetheless, Halman’s big day propelled him to second place in the MiLB HR race with eight.  Tuesday’s effort raises his ‘09 average to .208 and one only needs to look at his 4 BB/32 K ratio in his first 19 games to see why the average is so low.  Halman doesn’t turn 22 until late August, which leaves ample reason to believe that he can make adjustments to his plate discipline and begin to fulfill his massive potential.  However, several other young promising prospects have been down this road before and have fallen by the wayside.  Buyer beware.

AA Player of the Day—GREG HALMAN

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Juan Francisco—3-4 HR(4) 2 RBI 3B 2R
• Zack Cozart—2-4 2B RBI R BB
• Wellington Castillo—2-4 HR(2) 2 RBI 2R
• Desmond Jennings—3-5 RBI R
• Rhyne Hughes—1-5 HR(7) 2 RBI
• Josh Thole—2-4 2B 2R BB
• Lucas Duda—3-4 2B 2R BB
• Josh Reddick—2-5 2B R
• Lars Anderson—1-4 2R RBI BB
• Jim Negrych—3-4 2B BB
• Scott Scram—3-5 2 2B 3 RBI R
• Juan Portes—2-4 2R 2 RBI
• Jamie Hoffmann—5-5 2R SB(4)
• Chris Carter—3-5 2B 2R 2 RBI
• Josh Donaldson—2-5 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Adrian Cardenas—2-5 2B RBI R
• Justin Smoak—1-2 2B R 2 BB
• Concepcion Rodriguez—2-4 2B 2R
• Ezequiel Carrera—3-3 3B 3R RBI
• Greg Halman—2-5 2 HR(8) 6 RBI
• Matt Mangini—1-5 HR(1) 2 RBI

Pitching:

• Troy Patton—6 IP 6H 2 ER BB 5K
• Hector Rondon—6.2 IP 6H ER BB 9K W(4-0)
• George Kontos—6 IP 3H 2 BB 8K W(1-1)
• Travis Banwart—6 IP 5H 2 UER BB 2K W(3-0)
• Blake Johnson—6 IP H BB 2K W(1-2)
• Keith Weiser—6.2 IP 6H ER 6K
• Bryan Augenstein—7 IP 3H 3 BB 6K W(1-0)
• Aaron Poreda—6.1 IP 5H 2 ER 2 BB 3K L(1-3)

4/15 AA Minor League Report

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

EASTERN LEAGUE

Brian Friday, Erik Lis, Beau Mills, and Colin Curtis each collected three hits while Jon Still and Emmanuel Garcia hit their first HR’s of the season.  Hector Rondon spun another gem for his second win and Michael Antonini looked dominant in five shutout innings striking out eight.  Today’s player of the day is none other than Akron’s superstar catcher Carlos Santana who blasted a grand slam HR for his second dinger of the year.

Eastern League Player of the Day—CARLOS SANTANA

Other Notable Performances:

• Brian Friday—3-4 3B RBI SB(2)
• Hector Rondon—5.2 IP 4H ER BB 5K W(2)
• Beau Mills—3-4 2B R
• Carlos Santana—1-3 GS HR(2) 4 RBI BB
• Matt Moses—3-4 2R
• Juan Portes—2-4 2B 2 RBI
• Erik Lis—3-4 R BB
• Jon Still—1-4 HR(1) 2 RBI
• Josh Reddick—2-4 2B
• Argenis Diaz—2-3 2B BB
• Emmanuel Garcia—2-5 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Josh Thole—2-5 2B
• Michael Antonini—5 IP 4H 3 BB 8K W(1)
• Jake Arrieta—5 IP 7H ER 3 BB 4K W(1)
• Cale Iorg—2-4 RBI
• David Cooper—1-3 RBI
• Fabio Castro—6 IP 4H BB 6K
• Reegie Corona—2-4 2B 2R SB(1)
• Colin Curtis—3-4 2B 3B 2 RBI R SB(1)

SOUTHERN LEAGUE

Desmond Jennings had a big day on the basepaths scoring two runs an stealing three bases, including home.  Scott Elbert put another fine start under his belt, while Hector Ambriz allowed just two hits and struck out eight under seven innings.  Those performances didn’t trump that of tall Marlins RHP prospect Sean West whose six innings saw him surrender just two hits and two walks while racking up nine strikeouts.

Southern League Player of the Day—SEAN WEST

Other Notable Performances:

• Gordon Beckham—1-3 2B R RBI 2 BB
• Tyler Flowers—1-3 R 2 BB
• John Shelby Jr.—1-5 2B R
• Brett Omogrosso—6 IP 5H ER 3 BB 3K W(1)
• Richie Robnett—1-4 3B R RBI
• Desmond Jennings—1-2 2R 3B 2 BB 3 SB(4)
• Scott Elbert—4 IP H ER 3 BB 6K
• Jovanny Rosario—4-5 2 RBI R
• Andrew Lambo—1-4 2 RBI
• Jamie Hoffmann—1-2 HR(1) RBI 2R 3 BB
• Justin Sellers—2-4 2B R BB 2 SB(2)
• Gorkys Hernandez—2-4 2B BB SB(3)
• Kala Ka’aihue—1-4 HR(2) RBI
• Deunte Heath—4 IP 2H 6 BB 2K
• Chris Cody—4 IP 5H 2 ER 3 BB 8K
• Hector Ambriz—7 IP 2H BB 8K W(1)

4/14 AA Minor League Report

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

EASTERN LEAGUE

Josh Reddick hit his fourth HR and Brandon Snyder blasted his second.  Junichi Tazawa was very good over six innings yesterday surrendering just one run on four hits, but his effort was not as good as Blue Jays righty Ray Gonzalez who came one out away from throwing a complete game shutout.

Eastern League Player of the Day—RAY GONZALEZ

Other Notable Performances:

• Josh Reddick—1-3 HR(4) RBI 2R BB
• Lars Anderson—1-4 2B R RBI
• Jon Still—2-2 R BB SB(1)
• Junichi Tazawa—6 IP 4H ER 2 BB 3K W(1)
• Wilson Ramos—3-4
• Danny Valencia—1-4 HR(1) RBI
• Brandon Snyder—2-5 HR(2) RBI
• Miguel Abreu—3-5 SB(1)
• Brad Emaus—1-3 BB SB(1)
• Ray Gonzalez—8.2 IP 5H 4K
• Daryl Maday—4 IP 2H 3 BB 3K

TEXAS LEAGUE & SOUTHERN LEAGUE

Collin DeLome belted his third HR and teammates Zack Cozart and Juan Francisco each had their first dingers.  Rhyne Hughes blasted two HR’s and four RBI, but it was top moundsman Jeremy Hellickson who won top player honors throwing 5.2 innings of three hit, six strikeout ball for his first win of the new season.

Texas League & Southern League Player of the Day—JEREMY HELLICKSON

Other Notable Performances:

• Chris Nelson—2-5 2B R
• Cole Garner—2-5 3B 2 RBI R
• Jhoulys Chacin—5 IP 3H 2 ER 5K W(1)
• Criag Cooper—2-4 HR(1) 4 RBI
• Adrian Cardenas—2-5 R RBI
• Gabe Ortiz—1-3 HR(1) 4 RBI
• James Rapoport—1-2 2R 2 RBI 2 BB SB(2)
• Donovan Solano—2-5 2R
• Brett Wallace—1-4 R 2 RBI BB
• Steven Hill—3-5 2 2B RBI
• Jose Duarte—2-3 BB SB(3)
• Collin DeLome—1-4 HR(3) RBI BB
• Josh Flores—2-5 RBI R
• Jose Vallejo—3-5 2B R 2 RBI 2 SB(2)
• Marcus Lemon—2-3 R
• Hank Conger—1-4 R RBI BB
• Wilberto Ortiz—2-4 2B RBI BB SB(1)
• Hanley Statia—2-4 R SB(3)
• Desmond Jennings—3-5 2B R
• Jeremy Hellickson—5.2 IP 3H 2 BB 6K W(1)
• Rhyne Hughes—2-5 2 HR(2) 4 RBI 2R
• Jamie Hoffmann—2-3 2B R BB
• Bryan Peterson—1-2 2R BB SB(2)
• Zack Cozart—3-5 HR(1) 3 RBI 2B 2R
• Todd Frazier—1-4 2 RBI
• Juan Francisco—2-4 HR(1) RBI 2R BB SB(2)

PPR Mailbag—How Good is Josh Reddick?

Posted by Jeremy on April 14, 2009 under Readers Mailbag | Be the First to Comment

I received a message in my inbox yesterday asking about the future investment outlook of Boston Red Sox OF prospect Josh Reddick.  Reddick has gotten off to a blazing start belting HR’s in each of this first three games.  For review’s sake, we’ll take a look at his fine 2008 numbers.

The 21 year old Reddick has shown that he is quite capable of handling pitching at the single-A level but struggled against AA pitching.  Given his youth, and rapid ascention a slight hiccup is not surprising and, evidenced by his early returns from ‘09, should not be a problem this season.  In earlier analysis, I compared Reddick to J.D. Drew minus the injuries and walks.  He has the ability to hit for a high batting average with 20-25 HR power and accrue 10-15 SB every season.  His range is good enough for CF and his arm is strong enought to play RF. 

Going forward, the Red Sox will need a right fielder to replace the gradually declining produciton of J.D. Drew.  Reddick is first in line for that opportunity and seemingly has enough talent to effectively fend off challenges from other talented OF’s in the Red Sox system like Ryan Kalish, Peter Hissey, Che-Hsuan Lin, Ryan Westmoreland and others. 

The market for Reddick’s 2008 Bowman Chrome Draft autos sits at about $20-23 each right now which, to me, seems like a strong buy.  Remember, Red Sox prospects have a history of creating huge impacts on the market following their MLB debuts (Clay Buchholz, Justin Masterson, Jed Lowrie, Dustin Pedroia, Jacoby Ellsbury).  Reddick will earn a promotion to AAA Pawtucket at some point this season, barring injury or attrition.  He may get a few Fenway AB’s in September and is sure to have a real chance to win a job this coming spring.

If Andrew Jackson resides in your wallet, trade him (and a few of his twins) for Reddick’s 2008 autos.

4/11 AA Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 11, 2009 under Uncategorized | Be the First to Comment

Josh Reddick had a big four hit day at the plate including his first HR of ‘09.  Zack McAllister threw five strong innings on one run ball, but it was Phillies hurler Joe Savery who had the top performance.  The former 1st rounder went six innings allowing a run on four hits while striking out eight en route to his first victory of the new season.

Eastern League Player of the Day—JOE SAVERY

Other Notable Performances:

• Brett Pill–2-4 2B R
• Josh Reddick—4-5 HR(1) RBI 2B R
• Adam Mills—5 IP 7H 2 ER 4K
• Jared Hughes—6 IP BB 4K
• Brian Jeroloman—3-4 2B RBI R
• Fabio Castro—5.2 IP 6H 5K W(1)
• Emmanuel Garcia—2-4 2R BB
• Zack McAllister—5 IP 4H ER 2 BB 2K
• Joe Savery—6 IP 4H ER 8K W(1)
• Edgardo Baez—1-4 HR(1) RBI
• Michael Taylor—2-4 RBI
• Brandon Snyder—1-4 2 RBI
• Troy Patton—5 IP 3H 3 BB 3K W(1)
• Josh Tomlin—5 IP 3H ER 2K (L)
• Nick Weglarz—2-4

In the Southern League, Gerardo Parra and Gordon Beckham continued their hitting ways with two hits each, the Dodgers’ Scott Elbert looked strong in his return to the rotation, but it was Chicago Cubs 2B prospect Tony Thomas that blew away the competition with a 4-5 two homerun, five RBI and four run day.

Southern League Player of the Day—TONY THOMAS

Other Notable Performances:

• Tony Thomas—4-5 2 HR(2) 5 RBI 4R 2B
• Darwin Barney—2-3 HR(1) 2 RBI
• Hung-Wen Chen—5.1 IP 6H 2 ER BB 5K W(1)
• Ryan Klosterman—3-4 RBI BB
• Gerardo Parra—2-4 BB SB(2)
• Evan Frey—1-4 RBI BB SB(2)
• Todd Frazier—2-5 2B R
• Travis Wood—3.1 IP H 5 BB 3K (1-1 2B 3 RBI)
• Gorkys Hernandez—2-4 R BB
• Jamie Hoffmann—2-5 3B RBI R SB(1)
• Justin Sellers—2-4 2B
• Scott Elbert—4 IP 6H 2 ER BB 3K
• Gordon Beckham—2-4 RBI
• Dayan Viciedo—1-4 2R

Finally, the Texas League saw Rangers southpaw Kasey Kiker throw five scoreless innings of two-hit ball, but his performance couldn’t outmach Tony Jackson’s two homerun three RBI day.

Texas League Player of the Day—TONY JACKSON

Other Notable Performances:

• Joe Dickerson—2-5 3B 2 RBI
• Jose Duarte—1-4 2R RBI BB SB(1)
• Brian McFall—2-3 2 2B 2 RBI R SB(1)
• Eric Sogard—2-5 2B 2R RBI
• Luis Durango—3-5 RBI R 3 SB(3)
• Cedric Hunter—2-5 R
• Will Inman—4 IP 5H 2 ER BB 4K
• Anthony Jackson—2-5 2 HR(2) 3 RBI 2R
• Justin Smoak—1-4 HR(1) RBI
• Kasey Kiker—5 IP 2H BB 5K W(1)
• Josh Donaldson—1-4 2B RBI
• Yung-Chi Chen—3-4 2B 3R
• Jason Fernandez—6 IP 2H 3 BB 3K W(1)
• Jordan Walden—5 IP 2H 2 ER 4K L(1)

3/14 Spring Training Report

Posted by Jeremy on March 15, 2009 under Uncategorized | Be the First to Comment

Top New York Yankees prospects Austin Jackson and Jesus Montero belted HR’s yesterday (Montero’s was a grand slam), as did Nolan Reimold, Kyle Blanks, and Buster Posey.  New Orioles 2B prospect Justin Turner liked it so much he did it twice.  That wasn’t quite good enough to win the youngster of the day award, though, as Mariners 3B prospect Matt Tuiasosopo went 4-5 with a HR, double and 4 RBI.  Tui has blistered the ball this spring and is making a strong case to be Adrian Beltre’s successor at the hot corner.

Youngster of the Day—MATT TUIASOSOPO

Other Notable Performances

• Stephen Marek—IP 2K
• Justin Turner—2-4 2 HR(2) 3 RBI 2R
• Nolan Reimold—1-1 HR(2) RBI
• Felix Pie—2-2 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Matt Albers—2 IP H K
• Josh Reddick—2-3 2B R RBI
• Scott Cousins—1-1 RBI 2R BB
• Brett Sinkbiel—IP H BB K (W)
• Jesus Montero—1-1 GS HR(1) 4 RBI 2R BB
• Austin Jackson—2-4 HR(1) 2 RBI 3R SB(1)
• Ian Kennedy—3 IP 3H UER BB 5K (W)
• Ross Ohlendorf—4 IP 0H 2K
• Pedro Alvarez—2-2 2 2B R RBI
• Andrew McCutchen—1-3 2B RBI BB
• Garrett Jones—1-2 HR(2) 2 RBI 2R
• Jose Tabata—2-3 R
• Jason Donald—1-4 2R 2 SB(2)
• Mark Saccomano—1-4 HR(1) RBI
• Carlos Carrasco—3 IP 4H ER 2 BB 4K (W)
• Andrew Carpenter—4 IP 3H ER 4K
• Bud Norris—2 IP K
• Wade Davis—1.2 IP BB SV(1)
• Jeff Niemann—2 IP BB
• Mike Hessman—1-2 HR(2) 2 RBI 2R BB
• Justin Maxwell—1-2 HR(2) 2 RBI 2R BB
• J.R. Towles—1-3 HR(1) RBI
• Matt Tuiasosopo—4-5 HR(2) 2B 4 RBI
• Carlos Triunfel—1-1 R BB
• Dexter Fowler—3-4 R SB(3)
• Joaquin Arias—3-4 2R
• Chris Getz—2-4 2B
• Aaron Poreda—2 IP BB 3K
• Matt Harrison—4 IP 4H ER BB 4K
• Landon Powell—1-3 HR(3) RBI 2R
• Corey Wimberley—1-3 2R RBI BB SB(4)
• Emmannuel Burriss—2-4 RBI 2B
• Roger Kieschnick—2-3 2B 2 RBI
• James Simmons—2 IP 4H ER K
• Kyle Blanks—1-4 HR(3) 2 RBI
• Nick Hundley—1-3 2B 2 RBI
• Cesar Ramos—3 IP 4H BB 2K (W)
• Madison Bumgarner—IP BB K
• Buster Posey—1-2 HR(1) 2 RBI
• Pablo Sandoval—2-3 2B
• Lorenzo Cain—1-3 HR(1) RBI R
• Chad Huffman—2-3 R BB
• Trevor Crowe—2-2 2R 2 SB(4)
• Michael Brantley—1-3 R BB SB(3)
• Josh Whitesell—2-4 HR(2) 3 RBI 2R BB
• Brandon Wood—1-1 2B 2R BB
• Mark Trumbo—1-1 R RBI