Minor League Recap - 6/30/07

Triple A - Las Vegas lost 8-2

Delwyn Young - 1 for 3, BB
Andy LaRoche - 2 for 3, 3B, R, BB, E

Notes:

-Teh Roche returns. Andy LaRoche made his first appearance in Vegas since the 17th and collected his first triple of the season, though he also committed his 5th error.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_30_freaaa_lvgaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville lost 5-2

Xavier Paul - 2 for 4, 2 RBI, BB, 2 K's, SB
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 4, K
Anthony Raglani - 1 for 3, R, BB, K
Cory Dunlap - 0 for 1

Notes:

-Xavier Paul raised his average to .281 while drawing his 38th walk and stealing his 15th base.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_30_mobaax_jaxaax_1


High A - Inland Empire won 9-8

Travis Denker - 1 for 4, R, BB
Blake DeWitt - 2 for 5, 3B, HR (8), 5 RBI, R
Russell Mitchell - 0 for 4, BB, 3 K's, CS
Jamie Hoffman - 3 for 4, R, BB, OF Assist
Lucas May - 1 for 5, R
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 1 for 4, RBI, R, K

Notes:

-Blake DeWitt's 9th inning, 3 run HR was the eventual game-winner. DeWitt hit .390/.435/.650 in June.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_30_inlafa_rcqafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes lost 2-1

Josh Bell - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's
Carlos Santana - 1 for 2, 2 BB, 2 SB's
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, 4 K's
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 3, K, OF Assist

Notes:

-P Mat earned himself a golden sombrero.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_30_lanafx_swmafx_1


Rookie Ball - Ogden won 8-6

Brian Matthews - 1 for 5, RBI, K
Jaime Ortiz - 0 for 4, BB, K

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_30_ogdrok_casrok_1


Rookie Ball - GCL Dodgers won 6-5

Pedro Baez - 2 for 5, HR (1), 3 RBI, R, 2 K's
Andrew Lambo - 2 for 3, HR (2), 2 RBI, R, BB, K
Kyle Orr - 0 for 4, E

Notes:

-The GCL Dodgers won their 9th straight to start their season with a dramatic comeback finish. Pedro Baez took Mets lefty Nathan Vineyard deep for a 2 run shot in the 1st inning and Andrew Lambo went yard in the 3rd. However the bullpen blew the lead and the Dodgers trailed 5-4 heading into the bottom of the 7th. But the Dodgers came back to tie it in the bottom of the 7th and Andrew Lambo's sac fly in the bottom of the 9th won it.


http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_30_mtsrok_dgrrok_1

Minor League Recap - 6/29/07

Triple A - Las Vegas won 5-4

Delwyn Young - 3 for 4, 2 2B's, 2 RBI, 2 R, K

Notes:

-The 51's rallied for 2 8th inning runs after Eric Stults had given them 6 innings, though he allowed 4 ER.
-Delwyn Young raised his doubles total to 31.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_29_tucaaa_lvgaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville won 6-1

Xavier Paul - 3 for 5, CS
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 4, 2B, R, BB, E
Cory Dunlap - 0 for 2, R, 2 BB
Anthony Raglani - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI, K

Justin Orenduff - 5 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 5 K's
Greg Miller - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, 0 K's

Notes:

-Justin Orenduff allowed just 2 hits en route to his 4th win of the year. He lowered his ERA to 3.77 and won his 3rd straight start. Greg Miller issued a 1 out walk but induced a double play to end the inning.
-Chin Lung Hu hit double #27, while Anthony Raglani hit #17.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_29_jaxaax_biraax_1


High A - Inland Empire won 5-2

Travis Denker - 3 for 5, 2B, HR (5), RBI, 2 R
Russell Mitchell - 1 for 4, HR (10), 3 RBI, R, K
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 3, BB, 2 K's
Lucas May - 0 for 4, K
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 0 for 4, R, K

James McDonald - 5 IP, 6 Hits, ER, 2 BB, 5 K's

Notes:

-James McDonald surpassed the 100 strikeout mark as he won his 6th. McDonald now has 102 strikeouts and 20 walks.
-Travis Denker missed hitting for the cycle by a triple. He hit his 5th HR and his 16th double. He should be in Double A by now.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_29_inlafa_rcqafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes lost 15-7

Josh Bell - 0 for 5, 3 K's
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 0, R, BB
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 3, R, BB, K

Clayton Kershaw - 4.1 IP, 6 Hits, 6 R (5 ER), 2 BB, 7 K's

Notes:

-Clayton Kershaw had his worst outing since May 13th, when he allowed 7 ER in 1.1 innings. He lost his 3rd and his ERA rose to 2.24.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_29_lanafx_swmafx_1


Rookie Ball - Ogden won 9-3

Jovanny Rosario - 0 for 5, K, E
Kenley Jansen - 1 for 2, RBI, 2 R, 2 BB, HBP
Jaime Ortiz - 1 for 4, 2 R, BB
Austin Gallagher - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI, K

Notes:

-Austin Gallagher hit his first professional double.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_29_ogdrok_casrok_1


Rookie Ball - GCL Dodgers won 7-4

Pedro Baez - 3 for 5, 2B, R
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 4, BB, K
Alfredo Silverio - 4 for 5, HR (2), 3 RBI, R
Kyle Orr - 1 for 4, HR (2), RBI, R, K
Yosanddy Garcia - 1 for 4, HR (4), 2 RBI, R, K

Notes:

-The GCL Dodgers mounted a late inning comeback to improve to 8-0. They're the only undefeated team in the GCL.
-Yosanddy Garcia has 5 hits in 5 games this season: a double and 4 HR. Pedro Baez hit his 3rd double.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_29_dgrrok_natrok_1

Minor League Recap - 6/28/07

Triple A - Las Vegas lost 10-3

Delwyn Young - 1 for 5, 2B, RBI, K

Miguel Pinango - 5.1 IP, 5 Hits, 6 R (2 ER), 2 BB, 4 K's

Notes:

-Delwyn Young collected double #29.
-Miguel Pinango has already allowed 9 HR in 10 starts with Vegas. Pinango allowed a pair of 2 out shots in the 4th inning, though the runs were unearned since they followed a Wilson Valdez error.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_28_tucaaa_lvgaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville won 5-4

Xavier Paul - 1 for 5, R, SB
Anthony Raglani - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI, R
Cory Dunlap - 0 for 4, RBI

Jon Meloan - 1 IP, 3 Hits, 1 R (0 ER), 0 BB, K

Notes:

-Jon Meloan earned his 16th save of the season and has allowed 1 earned run in June (13.1 IP).
-Anthony Raglani hit his 16th double and Xavier Paul stole his 14th base.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_28_jaxaax_biraax_1


High A - Inland Empire won 10-2

Travis Denker - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 R, K, HBP
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 5, 2B, RBI, 2 R
Russell Mitchell - 2 for 4, 3 RBI, R, HBP
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 4, 3B, RBI
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 1 for 3, 2 K's

Javy Guerra - 5.2 IP, 7 Hits, 2 ER, 3 BB, 4 K's

Notes:

-Blake DeWitt hit his 25th double, while Travis Denker hit his 15th. Jamie Hoffman smacked his 3rd triple of the year.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_28_inlafa_rcqafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes was suspended due to rain


Rookie Ball - Ogden lost 4-3

Kenley Jansen - 1 for 3, HR (2), RBI, R, BB, K
Austin Gallagher - 1 for 4

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_28_ogdrok_casrok_1


Rookie Ball - GCL's game was postponed

Minor League Recap - 6/27/07

Triple A - Las Vegas lost 12-7

Delwyn Young - 5 for 5, 3 2B's, 2 RBI, 2 R, OF Assist

Chin Hui Tsao - 1 IP, 2 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 2 K's

Notes:

-Delwyn Young now has 28 doubles on the year. His OPS in June is over 1.100.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_27_tucaaa_lvgaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville won 15-7

Anthony Raglani - 2 for 2, 2 RBI, 3 R, 3 BB, SB, E, HBP
Cory Dunlap - 3 for 4, RBI, 2 R, 2 BB

Mike Megrew - 4 IP, 5 Hits, 5 R (4 ER), 3 BB, 3 K's

Notes:

-Anthony Raglani reached base 6 times in 6 plate appearances. He stole his 5th base and committed his 6th error.
-Chin Lung Hu and Xavier Paul did not play.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_27_jaxaax_biraax_1


High A - Inland Empire lost 10-5

Travis Denker - 0 for 4, RBI, 3 K's
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 4
Russell Mitchell - 0 for 4, K, E
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 3, R, SB, OF Assist, HBP
Lucas May - 0 for 3, R, BB, 2 K's
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 1 for 3, 2 RBI, R, BB, 2 K's

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_27_sjgafa_inlafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes played a doubleheader

Game 1 - Great Lakes lost 1-0

Josh Bell - 0 for 3
David Sutherland - 0 for 2
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 2
Carlos Santana - 0 for 2, K

Josh Wall - 6 IP, Hit, ER, 2 BB, 3 K's

Notes:

-The two teams combined for 1 run on 2 hits in this game. The Loons were retired in order every inning until the 7th, when Eduardo Perez spoiled Steve Delabar's no-hit bid when he was just 1 out away.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_27_swmafx_ftwafx_1


Game 2 - Great Lakes lost 6-0

Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 3, E
Juan Rivera - 0 for 3, E
Josh Bell - 1 for 3, E
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 2

Steven Johnson - 2.1 IP, 4 Hits, 5 R (1 ER), 2 BB, K
Jose Diaz - 0.1 IP, 2 Hits, ER, BB, 0 K's

Notes:

-Steven Johnson was treated rudely in just his second appearance since late April. Jose Diaz had an even worse time, allowing a HR and a double before recording an out and walking a batter. He was then replaced and Loons pitchers shut Fort Wayne the rest of the night.
-The offense didnt bother showing up today, collecting all of 3 hits in 14 innings.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_27_swmafx_ftwafx_2


Rookie Ball - Ogden won 8-1

Yovanny Rosario - 2 for 4, 3B, 2 RBI, R, CS, OF Assist
Jaime Ortiz - 1 for 2, HR (2), RBI, 2 R, BB, K

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_27_orerok_ogdrok_1


Rookie Ball - GCL won 8-1

Pedro Baez - 2 for 5, RBI, R
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 5
Kyle Orr - 0 for 4, BB, 2 K's
Amauri Guzman - 3 for 4, 2 RBI, R, K, OF Assist

Chris Malone - 3 IP, 2 Hits, ER, 2 BB, 6 K's
Kyle Smit - 5 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_27_dgrrok_mrlrok_1

Minor League Recap - 6/26/07

Triple A - Las Vegas won 5-4

Delwyn Young - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, R, 2 K's

Notes:

-Catcher Ben Davis (Yes, he's actually on the 51's) hit a 10th inning HR to give Vegas an extra innings win.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_26_lvgaaa_freaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville lost 5-1

Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 4
Xavier Paul - 2 for 4, K
Cory Dunlap - 0 for 4, K
Anthony Raglani - 1 for 3, K, E

Zach Hammes - 4.2 IP, 6 Hits, 5 R (4 ER), BB, 7 K's

Notes:

-Despite losing his 4th game and raising his ERA to 4.22, Hammes improved his K:BB ratio to 35:9 (5:1).

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_26_jaxaax_biraax_1


High A - Inland Empire won 7-4

Travis Denker - 2 for 4, 2B, 3B, R
Blake DeWitt - 2 for 4, 2B, 3 RBI, R
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 4, R
Russell Mitchell - 1 for 3, 3B, R, BB, K
Lucas May - 1 for 3, HR (12), 4 RBI, R, K
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 0 for 3, 2 K's, E

Jesus Castillo - 5.1 IP, 7 Hits, 3 ER, 2 BB, 3 K's

Notes:

-Jesus Castillo won his 3rd, despite raising his ERA to 4.27.
-Travis Denker clubbed his 14th double and 2nd triple.
-Blake DeWitt hit his 24th double.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_26_sjgafa_inlafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes was rained out


Rookie Ball - Ogden lost 10-7

Yovanny Rosario - 1 for 4, 2 R, BB, SB
Alex Garabedian - 0 for 3, 2 BB, K
Kenley Jansen - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, R
Jaime Ortiz - 0 for 3, K
Austin Gallagher - 1 for 4, RBI, K

Notes:

-Yovanny Rosario stole his 6th base, which leads the league.
-Alex Garabedian made his pro debut, drawing a pair of walks.
-Kenley Jansen collected his first double with Ogden.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_26_orerok_ogdrok_1


Rookie Ball - GCL had the day off

Minor League Recap - 6/25/07

Triple A - Las Vegas lost 5-2

Delwyn Young - 1 for 3, RBI, BB, K

Miguel Pinango - 2 IP, 3 Hits, 2 ER, BB, 0 K's

Notes:

-DJ Houlton got his 4th loss of the season, allowing 3 ER over 6 innings. His ERA now is 3.90.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_25_lvgaaa_freaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville won 6-1

Anthony Raglani - 0 for 5, R, 4 K's
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, RBI, 2 R, BB, K
Cory Dunlap - 1 for 4, RBI, R, BB, K
Xavier Paul - 1 for 3, 2 R, BB, SB, E

Greg Miller - 2.2 IP, 2 Hits, ER, 2 BB, 5 K's
Jon Meloan - 1.1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's

Notes:

-Chin Lung Hu has hit in 10 of his last 11 games.
-Xavier Paul stole his 13th base.
-Greg Miller earned his first hold in Jacksonville. Miller struck out the first batter he faced, then allowed a double and a run scoring single before inducing a flyout and a strikeout. He retired the side in order in the 7th, but struggled in the 8th. A pair of 2 out walks spelled the end of his performance, though it wasnt the worst he's had.
-Jon Meloan struck out 3 of the 4 batters he faced, raising his strikeout total to 57 in 37.1 innings. He's just wasting his time in Jacksonville nowadays.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_25_jaxaax_biraax_1


High A - Inland Empire won 4-2

Russell Mitchell - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, R
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 4, RBI
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 3, 2B, RBI, R
Lucas May - 0 for 4
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 1 for 2, R, BB

Notes:

-Russell Mitchell and Jamie Hoffman collected doubles #19 and #14 respectively.
-Despite his uninspiring .261 batting average, Ivan De Jesus Jr has 37 walks compared to 36 strikeouts.
-Cory Wade picked up his 6th save on 2.1 innings of 1 hit ball while striking out 3. He should be replacing Meloan as Jacksonville's closer soon.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_25_sjgafa_inlafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes lost 3-2

Josh Bell - 2 for 4, HR (8), 2 RBI, R, K
David Sutherland - 0 for 4, 2 K's
Preston Mattingly - 2 for 4, K, CS
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 3, BB
Carlos Santana - 1 for 2, BB, 3 SB
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 3, 2 K's

Notes:

-Bell's 8th HR accounted for both of the Loons runs. He's hitting .359 in his last 10 games.
-Preston Mattingly was caught stealing for just the 2nd time this season. Mattingly is hitting .353 in June.
-Carlos Santana's 3 stolen bases gives him 3 on the season.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_25_swmafx_ftwafx_1


Rookie Ball - Ogden lost 9-6

Yovanny Rosario - 1 for 5, RBI, R, 2 K's, SB
Brian Matthews - 3 for 4, 2B, RBI, R, BB
Kenley Jansen - 1 for 3, R, 2 BB

Notes:

-Paul Koss earned his first loss of the season, allowing 6 earned runs in the 9th inning while recording only 1 out to raise his ERA to 21.00.
-Yovanny Rosario stole his 5th base of the season and has hit safely in each of the last 5 games.
-Brian Matthews hit his first double of the year.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_25_orerok_ogdrok_1


Rookie Ball - GCL played a doubleheader

Game 1 - GCL won 7-2 (Suspended game from 6/20)

Pedro Baez - 1 for 5, R, K
Kyle Orr - 0 for 3, R, BB, E
Yosanddy Garcia - 0 for 4, K
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 3, 2B, RBI, R, BB

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_20_mtsrok_dgrrok_1

Game 2 - GCL won 5-3

Pedro Baez - 0 for 3, BB, K
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 2, HR (1), RBI, R, 2 BB

Eric Thompson - 4 IP, 2 Hits, 1 R (0 ER), 2 BB, 3 K's

Notes:

-Andrew Lambo slugged his first HR of the season off of lefty Nathan Vineyard, a supplemental first rounder in this year's draft. Lambo has 5 walks and just 1 strikeout in 5 games.
-Eric Thompson allowed an unearned run and maintained his 0.00 ERA through his first two professional appearances.
-The GCL Dodgers have started the season a perfect 6-0.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_25_dgrrok_mtsrok_1

Minor League Recap - 6/24/07

Triple A - Las Vegas won 5-4

Delwyn Young - 1 for 6, RBI, 2 K's

Notes:

-The 51's came from behind, scoring 2 in the 9th to send the game to extra innings and eventually winning 5-4 in the 12th.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_24_lvgaaa_freaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville lost 3-2

Xavier Paul - 0 for 4, BB, 2 K's, CS
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 5, 2B, 2 K's
Cory Dunlap - 1 for 3, 2 BB
Anthony Raglani - 1 for 3, R, BB, 2 K's, CS

Notes:

-The loss ends the Suns' 12 game winning streak.
-Chin Lung Hu hit his league-leading 26th double.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_24_jaxaax_biraax_1


High A - Inland Empire lost 6-2

Blake DeWitt - 1 for 4, 2 K's, E
Lucas May - 1 for 4
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 4, RBI, K, OF Assist
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 1 for 4, K

James McDonald - 5.1 IP, 8 Hits, 4 ER, BB, 13 K's

Notes:

-McDonald's 13 strikeouts is a career high. He now leads the league with 97 (in 74 innings).

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_24_sjgafa_inlafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes won 2-1

Juan Rivera - 0 for 4, K, E
Josh Bell - 0 for 3, 3 K's
David Sutherland - 1 for 3, RBI
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 1, RBI, BB

Notes:

-Josh Bell saw his 12 game hitting streak come to an end.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_24_souafx_swmafx_1


Rookie Ball - Ogden won 7-1

Rick Taloa - 2 for 4, 3B, HR (1), 2 RBI, 2 R, K
Austin Gallagher - 0 for 3, BB

Notes:

-Paul Coleman won his second straight start, striking out 10 over 7 innings and lowering his ERA to 0.75.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_24_casrok_ogdrok_1


Rookie Ball - GCL won 4-3

Pedro Baez - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, R, E
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 2, K
Kyle Orr - 0 for 1

Notes:

-The GCL Dodgers are now 4-0 to start the season, rallying from a 3-1 deficit with 3 runs in the 8th to win today.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_24_natrok_dgrrok_1
-Second baseman Johan Garcia got himself a "Golden Sombrero," going 0 for 4 with 4 strikeouts.

Minor League Recap - 6/23/07

Triple A - Las Vegas lost 9-2

Delwyn Young - 3 for 5, HR (12), RBI, R, K

Miguel Pinango - 3.2 IP, 8 Hits, 7 R (4 ER), 2 BB, K

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_23_lvgaaa_freaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville won 5-2

Xavier Paul - 0 for 4, 3 K's
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 4, K
Anthony Raglani - 3 for 4, 3B, RBI, R

Justin Orenduff - 5.1 IP, 6 Hits, ER, 2 BB, 5 K's
Jon Meloan - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's

Notes:

-The Suns have won 12 straight and are 6-0 to start the second half.
-Chin Lung Hu's hitless night ended his 8 game hitting streak.
-Anthony Raglani hit his 5th triple.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_23_cmcaax_jaxaax_1


High A - Inland Empire lost 8-3

Blake DeWitt - 4 for 4, 2 2B's, 2 RBI, PO, E
Travis Denker - 0 for 4, 2 K's
Russell Mitchell - 1 for 4, 2 K's
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 4, K
Lucas May - 1 for 4, 2B, R, 2 K's

Javy Guerra 5.1 IP, 6 Hits, 7 R (6 ER), 3 BB, 7 K's

Notes:

-Blake DeWitt's 2 doubles give him 23 on the season. He's hitting .419 in June.
-Guerra lost his 3rd, raising his ERA to 4.28.
-Lucas May hit his 16th double.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_23_inlafa_lesafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes lost 3-2

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 3, BB, CS
Josh Bell - 1 for 4, 2 K's, E
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 3, RBI
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 3, K

Clayton Kershaw - 6 IP, 4 Hits, 2 R (0 ER), 2 BB, 9 K's
Jose Diaz - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, 0 K's

Notes:

-GM Ned Colletti was on hand and Kershaw hit 99 and 100 on the stadium gun in the first inning. Kershaw hasnt allowed an earned run in his last 25 innings.
-Jose "Jumbo" Diaz made his season debut.
-Josh Bell committed his 22nd error.


http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_23_souafx_swmafx_1


Rookie Ball - Ogden won 5-3

Jovanny Rosario - 3 for 5, R, K, 2 SB, CS
Kenley Jansen - 1 for 4, RBI, R, 2 K's
Jaime Ortiz - 1 for 4, 2B
Austin Gallagher - 0 for 4, 2 K's, E

Notes:

-Austin Gallagher made his Dodger debut and committed a throwing error on his first defensive play.
-Jovanny Rosario has collected at least 3 hits in 3 of his last 4 games.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_23_casrok_ogdrok_1


Rookie Ball - GCL won 6-4

Pedro Baez - 1 for 4, RBI, K, E
Andrew Lambo - 2 for 3, R, BB
Kyle Orr - 1 for 4, RBI, R
Yosanddy Garcia - 2 for 4, 2B, HR (3), 3 RBI, 2 R, K, E

Chris Malone - 2 IP, Hit, ER, 2 BB, 4 K's
Carlos Alvarez - 2 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's

Notes:

-Yosanddy Garcia is 4 for 9 this season; the 4 hits being a double and 3 HR. He had 5 career HR in 74 games coming into the season.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_23_carrok_dgrrok_1

Minor League Recap - 6/22/07

Triple A - Las Vegas lost 10-5

Notes:

-Delwyn Young did not play

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_22_cspaaa_lvgaaa_1


Double A - Jacksonville played a doubleheader

Game 1 - Jacksonville won 5-4

Xavier Paul - 2 for 2, HR (8), RBI, 2 R, BB, SB
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 1, HR (4), RBI, 2 R, BB, SB
Cory Dunlap - 0 for 3, 2 K's
Anthony Raglani - 0 for 3

Game 2 - Jacksonville won 4-0

Xavier Paul - 1 for 2, RBI, R, BB, K, CS
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 3, HR (5), RBI, R, E
Cory Dunlap - 0 for 3, RBI
Anthony Raglani - 0 for 2, R, BB

Notes:

-Through 70 games, Chin Lung Hu has 25 doubles, 5 triples and 5 HR. Last year, in 125 games, Hu had 20 doubles, 2 triples and 5 HR. Hu also committed his 8th error in Game 2.
-Xavier Paul was caught stealing for the 4th time this year, though he raised his OPS to a respectable .789.
-The Suns are 5-0 to start the second half, winning 4 games in the past 2 days.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_22_cmcaax_jaxaax_2


High A - Inland Empire won 8-2

Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 4, K
Blake DeWitt - 3 for 5, 2B, RBI, R, E
Travis Denker - 2 for 5, R
Russell Mitchell - 1 for 5, R
Lucas May - 1 for 5, RBI, 2 R, K

Notes:

-Marlon Arias allowed 2 Solo HR in the first inning on the way to his 6th win.
-Blake DeWitt hit his 21st double and committed his 13th error. DeWitt is hitting .369 in June.
-Travis Denker is sporting a .904 OPS this year.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_22_inlafa_lesafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes lost 3-0

Juan Rivera - 0 for 3, BB, CS
Josh Bell - 2 for 4, 2B, K
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 3, BB, K
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 3, 2 K's, HBP
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 2, K, HBP

Josh Wall - 6.2 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 3 BB, 4 K's

Notes:

-Bell's double was his 18th and he's hit safely in 9 of his last 10 games.
-Josh Wall's 6.2 innings ties a season high and he's gone at least 5 innings in 8 of his last 9 starts.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_22_souafx_swmafx_1


Rookie Ball - Ogden won 13-8

Jovanny Rosario - 3 for 5, 2B, RBI, R
Kenley Jansen - 1 for 4, HR (1), RBI, 2 R, BB, K
Jaime Ortiz - 2 for 5, GS (1), 4 RBI, 2 R

Notes:

-Jaime Ortiz' grand slam was the Raptors' second this season; Yosanddy Garcia's opening day slam led to Ogden's first win.
-Kenley Jansen's HR was actually his second of the year, as he hit one with Great Lakes earlier this year.
-Jovanny Rosario has collected 3 hits in a game twice already.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_22_casrok_ogdrok_1


Rookie Ball - GCL won 5-1

Pedro Baez - 1 for 5, 3B, 2 RBI, R, 2 K's
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, BB
Kyle Orr - 1 for 3, RBI, K, HBP

Kyle Smit - 6 IP, 3 Hits, ER, BB, 7 K's
Eric Thompson - 3 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, 2 K's

Notes:

-The suspended game wasnt concluded and no word on when it will be.
-Pedro Baez already has 2 triples in 2 games.
-Smit and Thompson are both 19 year olds who were drafted in 2006.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_22_dgrrok_mrlrok_1

Minor League Recap - 6/21/07

Triple A - Las Vegas won 10-7

Delwyn Young - 1 for 4, 2 R

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?t=g_box&gid=2007_06_21_cspaaa_lvgaaa_1&did=t400&sid=t400


Double A - Jacksonville played a doubleheader

Game 1 - Jacksonville won 4-1

Xavier Paul - 1 for 4, HR (7), 2 RBI, R, K
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 4, R
Cory Dunlap - 1 for 4
Anthony Raglani - 1 for 2, 2B, RBI, BB

Zach Hammes - 4 IP, 3 Hits, ER, BB, 4 K's
Jon Meloan - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_19_cmcaax_jaxaax_1

Game 2 - Jacksonville won 1-0

Xavier Paul - 0 for 4, 2 K's
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, K
Cory Dunlap - 0 for 2, 2 BB
Anthony Raglani - 0 for 3

Mike Megrew - 5 IP, 3 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 7 K's
Greg Miller - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, 3 K's

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_21_cmcaax_jaxaax_1


High A - Inland Empire lost 4-2

Blake DeWitt - 1 for 4, 2B, K
Russell Mitchell - 0 for 4, R, 2 K's
Travis Denker - 1 for 3, RBI, R, BB, 2 K's
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 4, RBI, K
Lucas May - 1 for 4, K
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 1 for 3, K, E

Jesus Castillo - 6 IP, 8 Hits, 4 R (3 ER), 2 BB, K

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_21_inlafa_lesafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes lost 11-5

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 5, 2B, 3 K's, E
Josh Bell - 2 for 4, 2 R, K, SB
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, 2 K's, E
Scott Van Slyke - 2 for 4, R, K

Steven Johnson - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, 0 K's

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_21_souafx_swmafx_1


Rookie Ball - Ogden lost 13-3

Jovanny Rosario - 1 for 2, 2B, BB, K, SB
Jessie Mier - 0 for 4, BB
Brian Matthews - 0 for 3, R, BB, 2 K's, E
Jaime Ortiz - 2 for 4, 2 RBI

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_21_ogdrok_orerok_1


Rookie Ball - GCL did not play

Minor League Recap - 6/20/07

Triple A - Las Vegas lost 7-4

Delwyn Young - 2 for 5, 3B, HR (11), 3 RBI, R

An early exit for DJ Houlton spelled trouble for the 51's. Houlton cruised through the first 4 innings, before allowing 3 runs in the 5th. He was replaced by Matt White with 2 outs in the inning. White worked 1.1 scoreless, before Matt Riley came in and gave up 4 more runs in a pair of frames. Dwayne Pollok worked a scoreless 9th. Delwyn Young clubbed his 11th HR as well as his 3rd triple. Andy LaRoche did not play. Vegas looks for its first win of the series tomorrow at 7:11pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_20_cspaaa_lvgaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville was rained out again; a doubleheader is scheduled for tomorrow


High A - Inland Empire returns to action tomorrow


Low A - Great Lakes also returns to action tomorrow


Rookie Ball - Ogden lost 4-2

Jovanny Rosario - 3 for 5, R, 2 K's, SB
Kenley Jansen - 1 for 4, 2 K's

Doug Brooks allowed 4 runs over 5 innings as the Raptors dropped their first game of the season. Both of Ogden's runs came in the 8th inning. Justin Fuller and Jovanny Rosario hit back to back 1 out singles before Fuller scored on an error. Jeremy Brown's single plated Rosario. Ogden concludes their opening series with Orem tomorrow at 6:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_20_ogdrok_orerok_1


Rookie Ball - GCL Dodgers were suspended due to rain; no word on a makeup game

Minor League Recap - 6/19/07

Triple A - Las Vegas lost 8-2

Delwyn Young - 0 for 4

Eric Stults lost his 5th, snapping the 51's brief 3 game win streak. Stults allowed 4 runs in 3 innings and didnt get much help from the pen. Harold Eckert relieved him and gave up 2 runs in 3 innings. Casey Hoorelbeke and Matt White allowed runs in their frames. The only pitcher who didnt give up a run was BJ LaMura. Delwyn Young's 6 game hit streak came to an end. Andy LaRoche appears to be battling injury, as he's played just 3 games in the past week. Vegas hosts Colorado Springs again tomorrow at 7:11pm.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_19_cspaaa_lvgaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville was suspended due to rain; will be resumed tomorrow


High A - Inland Empire is on their All Star Break

The California League All Star team beat the Carolina League All Star team 10=5. 66ers' righthander James McDonald picked up the win for the Cal League All Stars, pitching a perfect 2nd inning with a strikeout. Lucas May singled once in 4 at bats.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_19_craafa_caaafa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Low A - Great Lakes is still on their All Star Break; the Midwest League All Star game was played today

Loons lefty Clayton Kershaw allowed a walk and a solo HR in an inning of work, but recorded 2 strikeouts and the win for the East team. Francisco Lizarraga went 1 for 2, while Eduardo Perez was 1 for 3.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_19_mdeafx_mdwafx_1


Rookie League - Ogden won 4-3

Brian Matthews - 2 for 4, HR (1), RBI, R, 2 K's, SB
Kenley Jansen - 0 for 4, K
Jaime Ortiz - 0 for 4, RBI, 2 K's

Paul Koss - 1.2 IP, 4 Hits, ER, 0 BB, K

It was an uneventful debut for Ogden, prospect-wise. Only 1 2007 draftee made an appearance: Paul Koss, who closed out the game and earned his first professional save. Brian Matthews had a nice game, homering in the 6th inning. Kenlsey Jansen went hitless after being demoted from Low A. Paul Coleman started the game and pitched well, allowing just 2 hits and a walk over 5 scoreless innings. Ogden plays again in Orem tomorrow at 6:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_19_ogdrok_orerok_1


Rookie Ball - GCL Dodgers won 16-10

Pedro Baez - 3 for 6, 2B, 3B, RBI, 3 R, K
Kyle Orr - 2 for 5, HR (1), 2 RBI, 2 R, K
Yosanddy Garcia - 2 for 5, 2 HR (2), 5 RBI, 2 R, K

Carlos Alvarez - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's

An extremely exciting game kicked off the Dodgers' GCL season. Midget southpaw Carlos Alvarez, apparently rehabbing from an injury, started the game and struck out the side in the 1st after being given a 2-0 lead. The Dodgers scored 5 more times in the next 4 innings to take a 7-3 lead into the 6th. 2006 4th rounder Kyle Orr homered in his 2nd professional at bat, a 2 run shot to center field in the 3rd. Lefty Jon Dutton came in for Alvarez and worked 4 innings, allowing 3 runs. But the lead was lost when Mario Garcia replaced Dutton and allowed 5 runs in his only frame. Luis Garcia allowed another pair in the 7th and the Dodgers fell behind 10-7. But the Dodgers made a miraculous comeback in the 9th. Johan Garcia led off with a walk and Joseph Becker forced him out at 2nd. Then back to back doubles by Lyndon Poole and Pedro Baez produced 2 runs to cut the lead to 10-9. Keyter Collado walked and a pitching change preceded an error on a force attempt that could have ended the game, instead tying it at 10-10. Kyle Orr followed with a single which brought up Yosanddy Garcia. Garcia had already homered to lead off the 2nd inning and with the bases loaded, he hit a grand slam to give the Dodgers the lead. 2 more runs would score on a 2 out double and that would be the game. What an exciting beginning to hopefully an enjoyable season in the GCL.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_19_dgrrok_natrok_1&t=g_box&did=milb

Halfway Home

Well, the halfway point has been reached in the minor league season. Rookie and short-season ball gets underway tomorrow. Now I'll look at who's done what and how.

Triple A - Las Vegas

Hot

Delwyn Young, OF - The 2002 draftee has seen his prospectual status drop over the past few years, though he seems to have re-established himself with a strong showing his second time through the PCL. Young leads the team with a .912 OPS, which is 13th in the league. He also leads the league with 24 doubles and has 10 HR. With James Loney's injury, Young could find himself on the Dodgers' roster sooner rather than later, though I believe he'll eventually be traded.

Miguel Pinango, RHP - The 24 year old righthander started the year with High A Inland Empire, where he posted an ERA of 4.61 in 5 starts. And when a spot opened up with the 51's rotation, Pinango was tabbed as the replacement. Well, he's definitely exceded expectations, as his ERA has dropped by over a run to 3.35 in 8 starts. Pinango's prospect status is in limbo, young enough to be considered one yet old enough to not have much time left to develop. Best case scenario is he spot starts for an injured regular.

Not

Andy LaRoche, 3B - It's been a strange year for the guy who was ranked as the Dodgers' top prospect coming into the season. A slow start led to a callup and mixed production with the Dodgers before being sent back down. While LaRoche has posted an OBP over .400 seen going back to Vegas, the power is yet to come. All 3 of his HR came in April and his SLG for the year is just over .360. Hopefully this is just a slow start and not a sign of injury.

Greg Miller, LHP - Possibly the most disappointing prospect this season, Miller started off hot in the 51's rotation. But it seems as though he's experienced some discomfort in his shoulder, leading to a lowered arm angle and his control has gone to hell. After walking 46 batters in 28.2 innings in Vegas, Greg has been demoted to Jacksonville where he's still struggling to find his control. Still just 22, hopefully he'll get it figured out.

Keep an eye on

DJ Houlton - Houlton struggled last year with Vegas, but has since lowered his ERA by nearly 2 runs this season. Like Pinango, Houlton likely wont see the big league roster prior to September, if at all.


Double A - Jacksonville

Hot

Chin Lung Hu, SS - After struggling with the bat last year, Hu has come out of the gate blistering hot. Hu is Top 10 in the league in batting average, with a .324 mark. His 25 doubles is among the top in the minors and he's slugging .492. He's also stolen 10 bases. His walks are down, though his OBP is still .373. Hu is on schedule to replace Rafael Furcal in 2009.

Jon Meloan, RHP - In 2005, the Dodgers converted Jon Broxton to a relief pitcher and he has since morphed into a dominant setup man. Last year, the Dodgers eased Jon Meloan back from injury by putting him in the pen and the results have been spectacular. Now he's the Suns' closer and it's only a matter of time before he joins the bull in LA. Meloan has struck out 50 batters and allowed 30 baserunners in 34 innings. He has 12 saves and a 2.38 ERA.

Not

Anthony Raglani, OF - Raglani started the year off with a 1.067 OPS in April, but that lowered to .738 in May and .655 in June. He's on pace to strikeout well over 100 times and his batting average has dropped to .236, stats that wont be saved by his .365 OBP and .467 SLG according to this administration. Hopefully he turns it around and I could see a sabermetrically inclined team being interested in him if he does.

Mike Megrew, LHP - Megrew had some success last season in High A and started the year well, as his 3.76 April ERA would indicate. But it's been downhill from there and he hit rock bottom in May when he allowed 30 ER in 26 innings. His ERA is back down to 4.66 in June but he still has a way to go to get back on track.

Keep an eye on

Xavier Paul, OF - The stocky center fielder has been in a power outage this June, collecting 5 doubles but no Homeruns. Still, his .277/.356/.411 line is respectable for a 22 year old in Double A. If the power comes back, he could find himself in LA before long.


High A - Inland Empire

Hot

Travis Denker, 2B - The petite second baseman missed some time early this year, but has come out raking. Denker's .905 OPS leads the team and he's even stolen 6 bases. He should be promoted to Double A post haste to truly test his offensive prowess.

James McDonald, RHP - It's been an adventure for James McDonald. Drafted in 2002 and signed as a DFE in 2003, First he was a pitcher, then a hitter, then he did both before finally turning his attention to pitching full time in 2006. This year, it's paid off as the 22 year old has posted impressive numbers in a hitter friendly league. McDonald leads the league in strikeouts while being just 20th in innings pitched. He's given up only 17 walks and 4 HR in just under 70 innings. In my opinion, McDonald has established himself as the best RHP prospect in the Dodgers' system.

Not

Lucas May, C - Much like Anthony Raglani, Lucas May was on fire for the month of June. He hit 8 HR that month and has hit just 3 since. May bottomed out in May, posting an OPS of just .555. That mark has risen to .706 in June but he still needs to work on his defense (Almost 20 passed balls) and basestealing (3 SB, 6 CS).

Marlon Arias, LHP - Three southpaws in this category isnt encouraging. Even a no-hitter couldnt prevent Arias' downfall. Despite his June ERA of 7.82, he's 2-0 in 3 starts. He's allowed only 2 HR but his 25 walks in 53.1 innings is too high. It doesnt seem to matter how Arias pitches, as he's lost only 1 decision in his last 10 games.

Keep an eye on

Javy Guerra, RHP - The 21 year old Tommy John surgery recipient walked 20 in 21.1 innings in June, but has improved his control since. He has 64 strikeouts in 62 innings and has allowed only 2 HR. But like Arias, he needs to cut down on the walks. Guerra touched the mid 90s before his surgery and if he still has that stuff, he could be a diamond in the rough.


Low A - Great Lakes

Hot

Josh Bell, 3B - It seemed as though the whole team, along with the weather, got off to a cold start. Bell was no exception, hitting .216 in April. But he tore the cover off the ball with a .341 mark in May and has occasionally shown the prodigious power potential that made him a Top 10 prospect coming into the year. His 7 total HR are skewed by his hitting 5 in May and just 1 in each other month. Bell also had a 15 game hitting streak. He's slowed down in May but still has a lot of juice in his bat.

Clayton Kershaw, LHP - Kershaw falling to the Dodgers was one of the happiest Baseball days of my life. And his status soared with a strong showing in the GCL. Now, in his first taste of full season ball, Kershaw hasnt disappointed. Kershaw's 1.89 ranks 4th in the league, as do his 82 strikeouts. He's also allowed just a .178 opponent's batting average and 1 HR. The one downside is his walk rate, as he's issuing 1 free pass every other inning. Hopefully he can improve his control without sacrificing his outstanding walk rate. He should be a candidate for a promotion to High A in coming weeks.

Not

Carlos Santana, C - After hitting .303 in rookie ball last season and a position change in instructional league, Santana hasnt taken to his new position well and his hitting has suffered. Santana has hit .222 so far in June, his highest monthly average this season. His .174 mark isnt helped by just 1 HR and a mediocre walk rate. And then there's his defense; I'll be nice and just say he needs to work on it. Hopefully he doesnt have to move back to 3B or, worse yet, the OF.

Miguel Sanfler, LHP - Sanfler made the Top 20 list for the Pioneer League last year, but has failed to live up to expectations. A lefty who can touch the mid 90s is a rare commodity, but Sanfler's lack of control has really hurt him. He's issued 31 walks in 35.2 innings to lead to a 5.55 ERA. He's already 22 and still in Low A, so he needs to turn it around quick if he wants any shot at the major league pen.

Keep an eye on

Preston Mattingly, 2B - You know, I asked Logan White in a draft chat last year if Preston Mattingly would make a good offensive-minded second baseman. Where's my job offer?!?! After committing 15 errors at shortstop, Mattingly has had just 4 miscues at second. He's also hit 349/.379/.578 since the move and raised his overall line to .265/.300/.400. He's even stolen 7 of 8 bases. Mattingly may have benefited from another year in rookie ball, but hopefully the bat will stay hot and the defense will improve. Otherwise, I estimate he'll end up in the outfield before long.

Minor League Recap - 6/18/07

Triple A - Las Vegas had the day off


Double A - Jacksonville won 12-5

Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 4, R, K, SB, HBP
Cory Dunlap - 3 for 4, RBI, 2 R, BB, K
Anthony Raglani - 1 for 5, 2 RBI, R, 3 K's
Xavier Paul - 0 for 2, K

The Suns saw themselves down 3-0 before they even got to the plate. Starter Alvis Ojeda allowed runs in his 1st and last innings, 5 total (4 earned). But the Suns came back with a run in the bottom of the 1st and 7 more in the 2nd to put the game away. Mark Alexander worked 4 scoreless innings to earn his 2nd save in Double A. Cory Dunlap had a big day, raising his June average to .333. Chin Lung Hu stole his 10th bag. Xavier Paul came in late in the game but went hitless and Anthony Raglani's average dropped to .236. The Suns, who have won 9 of their last 10, play game 2 of 6 with Carolina tomorrow at 4:05pm.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_18_cmcaax_jaxaax_1&t=g_box&did=milb


High A - Inland Empire is on their All Star break


Low A - Great Lakes is on their All Star break

Minor League Recap - 6/17/07

Triple A - Las Vegas won 5-3

Delwyn Young - 2 for 5, 2B, R, CS
Andy LaRoche - 1 for 2

After dropping the first 2 games, the 51's came back to take the next 3 and the series. Miguel Pinango pitched well, allowing 2 runs (1 earned) over 5 innings. Pinango struggled with his control, walking 4 batters, but still managed to keep Vegas in the game. Eric Hull relieved him, and was given a 1 run lead in the top of the 7th but allowed the equalizer in the bottom of the inning before being replaced by Matt Riley. Then in the 8th, Marlon Anderson's leadoff strikeout was followed by 3 singles that accounted for a run. After a new pitcher was brought in, Choo Freeman singled to load the bases and Luis Maza drove in a run with an RBI single. Riley allowed the tying runs to reach base in the 9th but struck out the final batter to end the game. Andy LaRoche started the game but was pulled in the 5th inning. Delwyn Young raised his average to .313. The 51's take tomorrow off as they travel back home for a series with Colorado Springs, starting Tuesday.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_17_lvgaaa_srcaaa_1


Double A - Jacksonville won 5-4

Xavier Paul - 0 for 4, K
Chin Lung Hu - 3 for 4, 2B, 3B, RBI, R, BB
Cory Dunlap - 0 for 2, 3 BB
Anthony Raglani - 1 for 4, 2B, R

Jon Meloan - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's

The Suns have won their last 6 and 8 of their last 9 as they march towards the All Star Break. Starter Joey Norrito gave them a quality start, allowing 3 runs (2 earned) over 6.2 innings before being replaced by Wesley Wright. The scoring started with Montgomery plating a runner in the 2nd. In the 4th, Norrito allowed a 2 run HR to make it 3-0 Montgomery. But the Suns came right back in the 5th with 3 of their own to tie it. Then in the 8th, Anthony Raglani's 1 out double was followed by Juan Gonzalez' 3rd HR of the season, putting the Suns up 5-3. Wesley Wright allowed a run in the bottom of the inning, preserving the lead. And in the 9th, big bad Jon Meloan came in and mowed down the Biscuits, striking out the side and earning his 12th save. Chin Lung Hu missed the cycle by a homer, but collected double #25 and triple #5. Xavier Paul has been struggling of late, batting just .246 in June. Cory Dunlap did what he does best: drew walks. And Anthony Raglani clubbed his 14th double. Jacksonville returns home for a rare 6 game series with Carolina, starting tomorrow at 4:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_17_jaxaax_monaax_1


High A - Inland Empire lost 10-1

Blake DeWitt - 1 for 4, 3 K's
Russell Mitchell - 1 for 4, R, 2 K's
Travis Denker - 2 for 3, BB
Lucas May - 0 for 4
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 3, RBI
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 0 for 3, K, E

The 66ers could have clinched the first half title with a win, but instead will be forced to play a playoff game July 4th to decide whether they or Lancaster will be the first half winner. Alberto Bastardo earned a tough loss, going 4 innings and allowing 5 runs, though only 2 were earned. Francisco Felix failed to record an out, allowing 3 consecutive hits and 2 runs. Jesus Castillo managed a perfect frame, before Mario Alvarez allowed an unearned run without giving up a hit. Jordan Pratt got 2 outs but also gave up 2 runs. And Kyle Wilson surrendered just 1 hit over 1.2 scoreless innings. On offense, Travis Denker raised his season average to .342 and drew his 27th walk, giving him more walks than strikeouts (26). Blake DeWitt and Russell Mitchell combined for 2 singles and 5 strikeouts. Ivan De Jesus Jr committed his 12th error of the season, while Lucas May and Jamie Hoffman also went hitless. The Empire is off for the All Star break until Thursday the 21st.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_17_lncafa_inlafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes lost 4-3

Juan Rivera - 1 for 4, CS
Josh Bell - 2 for 4, 2 2B's
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 4, RBI, 2 K's
David Sutherland - 1 for 3

The Loons lost a heartbreaker as they enter the All Star break 2 games under .500. Tommy Giles hit a 1 out HR in the 1st inning, his 1st of the year, to put Great Lakes ahead early. The Loons added another run in the 2nd, as Matt Berezay was hit by a pitch, stole 2nd and was singled in by Scott Van Slyke. Cody White was effectively wild, issuing 5 walks but allowing no runs over 6 innings. Matthew Gomez de Segura pitched a scoreless 7th before Miguel Sanfler came in. Sanfler allowed a single followed by an RBI double to start off the inning. He then induced a groundout to short and walked the next batter, before getting pulled. Miguel Ramirez replaced him and promptly walked the bases loaded before allowing an RBI single which tied the game. The next batter hit a sac fly which put South Bend up by 1. Ramirez intentionally walked the bases loaded and got the final batter to fly out to center. Ramirez then allowed a solo homer in the 9th to put the Loons down 4-2. Great Lakes tried to mount a 9th inning comeback, as Eduardo Perez singled to lead off the inning and Josh Bell doubled him to 3rd. Adolfo Gonzalez grounded out to 2nd, plating Perez and putting the tying run on 3rd. But he'd be stranded there, as Matt Berezay flied out to left and Scott Van Slyke was called out on strikes to end the game. Bell now has 17 doubles, which leads the team. Juan Rivera has hit safely in his first 4 games with the Loons. Trayvon Robinson pinch ran for Bell in the 9th. David Sutherland played in just his 3rd game since May 13th. Preston Mattingly did not play. Like the 66ers, the Loons are now on their All Star break and will resume playing on Thursday the 21st.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_17_souafx_swmafx_1

Minor League Recap - 6/16/07

Triple A - Las Vegas won 8-3

Delwyn Young - 1 for 4, BB, 2 K's

William Juarez gave the 51's a quality start on the way to his 3rd win with Vegas. Juarez allowed 3 runs over 6 innings while striking out 6. Dwayne Pollok came in for a 3 inning save, allowing just 2 hits. Delwyn Young singled and drew a walk; he's reached base safely in 8 of his last 10 games. Andy LaRoche did not play. Vegas plays Sacramento tomorrow at 1:05pm.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_16_lvgaaa_srcaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville won 8-2

Xavier Paul - 1 for 5, 2B, R, 2 K's
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 5, R, K
Cory Dunlap - 1 for 4, RBI, 2 R
Anthony Raglani - 0 for 4, 2 K's

Zach Hammes - 6 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 3 K's
Greg Miller - 1 IP, 2 Hits, ER, BB, 0 K's

The Suns jumped out to an early lead and held on to pull within a game of first place. Hammes had his best start of the season, on the way to his 2nd win of the season. Greg Miller came in with a 7 run lead and managed to get out of the inning without too much trouble. Although he allowed a solo HR, Miller was able to record 3 outs, which is a major step forward from his last outing. Xavier Paul hit his 13th double of the season, while Chin Lung Hu and Cory Dunlap singled. Jacksonville concludes their series with Montgomery tomorrow at 12:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_16_jaxaax_monaax_1


High A - Inland Empire won 4-3

Blake DeWitt - 3 for 5, 2B, RBI, R, K
Travis Denker - 1 for 3, R, K, SB, HBP
Russell Mitchell - 3 for 3, RBI, BB
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI, K
Lucas May - 0 for 4
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 2 for 3, BB

James McDonald - 6 IP, 5 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 5 K's
Javy Guerra - 2.1 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 4 K's

James McDonald returned from his hiatus in a pivotal game in the 66ers' battle for first place. McDonald, like Clayton Kershaw, skipped his last start and showed no rust, picking up his 5th win of the year. The 66ers led 4-0 as Francisco Felix replaced McDonald and Felix almost gave the game away, allowing 3 runs in 0.2 innings. Jacobo Meque came in to face 1 batter and allowed an RBI single, cutting the 66ers' lead to 1. But Javy Guerra made a relief appearance and ended the inning. Guerra allowed a single in both the 8th and 9th innings but managed to earn his 1st save of the year. Blake DeWitt continued to rake, slugging his 19th double of the season and is now batting .386 in June. Russell Mitchell also had a 3 hit night, while Ivan De Jesus Jr has more walks (36) than strikeouts (33). The Empire clinched at least a share of the division title with tonight's win. They face Lancaster again tomorrow at 1:05pm in their final game before the All Star Break.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_16_lncafa_inlafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes won 7-4

Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 4, R, BB, 2 K's, SB
Josh Bell - 2 for 4, 2B, R
Preston Mattingly - 3 for 4, RBI, 2 R, K, SB
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 2, RBI, BB, OF Assist

Josh Wall - 5.2 IP, 8 Hits, 4 ER, 2 BB, 4 K's, E

The Loons are closing out the first half hot, winning 7 of their last 8. Josh Wall won his 2nd straight start and David Pfeiffer backed him up for his 1st save. Preston Mattingly raised his season average to .265 and is batting .389 in June. Mattingly also stole his 7th base. Trayvon Robinson stole his 14th while Josh Bell clubbed his 15th double. Scott Van Slyke threw out a runner at 3rd. The Loons look to pull their first half record to .500 with a victory tomorrow at noon.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_16_souafx_swmafx_1

Minor League Recap - 6/15/07

Triple A - Las Vegas played a doubleheader

Game 1 - Las Vegas lost 5-3

Delwyn Young - 1 for 4, HR (10), RBI, R, 3 K's

A late comeback attempt was spoiled by a walk-off HR to end the 1st game of the doubleheader. Spike Lundberg pitched well enough, allowing 3 runs in 6 innings. Delwyn Young's 10th HR of the season in the 1st inning gave the 51's an early lead. Trailing 3-1 entering the top of the 7th, Wilkin Ruan started off the inning with a walk. John Lindsey pinch hit and popped out for the 1st out. Octavio Martinez singled to prompt a pitching change. Then Wilson Valdez and Marlon Anderson drove in tying runs with a single and a sac fly. But in the bottom of the 7th, Riley allowed a leadoff single and after a sacrifice bunt, Jorge Piedra hit the walk-off homer.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_15_lvgaaa_srcaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Game 2 - Las Vegas won 10-4

Delwyn Young - 2 for 3, 3 R, BB, K

The 51's led wire to wire in the second game of the doubleheader. Harold Eckert started and lasted 3 innings, allowing just 1 run. Casey Hoorelbeke gave up 2 unearned runs in 2 innings, followed by 2 innings of 1 run ball from Matt White. Delwyn Young collected 2 hits and a walk, raising his average to .313. John Lindsey homered twice. Larry Barnes also homered. Andy LaRoche didnt play in either game; no word on any injury. Vegas plays just one game tomorrow at 7:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_15_lvgaaa_srcaaa_2


Double A - Jacksonville won 7-1

Xavier Paul - 1 for 5
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, 2B, 2 R, BB, SB
Cory Dunlap - 0 for 4, R, K, HBP
Anthony Raglani - 2 for 4, RBI, R, BB, K

Mike Megrew - 5.1 IP, 5 Hits, ER, 2 BB, 3 K's

Mike Megrew finally had a good outing as the Suns cruised to an easy win. Megrew won his 4th and went 5 innings without allowing more than a run for the 1st time since May 5th. Chin Lung Hu hit his 24th double and stole his 9th base. Anthony Raglani raised his average to .241 and drew his 45th walk. Cory Dunlap went hitless for just the 3rd time in his last 10 games. Jacksonville plays Montgomery again tomorrow at 5:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_15_jaxaax_monaax_1


High A - Inland Empire won 4-3

Blake DeWitt - 2 for 5
Lucas May - 0 for 4, BB, 2 K's, SB
Russell Mitchell - 1 for 4, HR (9), RBI, R, K
Travis Denker - 1 for 3, R, BB, K
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 4, R
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 1 for 3, RBI

A 4 run 3rd was all the 66ers needed in their win. Marlon Arias earned his 5th win going 5.2 innings while allowing 3 runs. Cory Wade picked up his 5th save, pitching 3.1 scoreless. Russell Mitchell's HR was his 6th hit in his last 13 at bats. Blake DeWitt remains hot in June, batting .365. Jamie Hoffman is just behind DeWitt in June, batting .364. Travis Denker is hitting .355 in his last 10 games. The Empire plays Lancaster again tomorrow at 7:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_15_lncafa_inlafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes won 7-2

Josh Bell - 1 for 4, R, 2 K's
Preston Mattingly - 2 for 4, 2 RBI, 2 R, E
Scott Van Slyke - 3 for 4, 2B, HR (2), 4 RBI, R, K
Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 4, K, SB

Arismendy Castillo won his 2nd game of the year as the Loons pulled 2 games within .500. Castillo allowed just an unearned run 7 innings. Thomas Melgarejo allowed a run without allowing a hit in his inning, while Miguel Ramirez closed the game out with a scoreless frame to lower his ERA to 1.04. Scott Van Slyke missed the cycle by a triple. Van Slyke hit his 11th double to go along with his 2nd HR. Preston Mattingly committed his 19th error but also raised his average to .255. Josh Bell is hitting .271. Great Lakes hosts South Bend again tomorrow at 4pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_15_souafx_swmafx_1

Minor League Recap - 6/14/07

Triple A - Las Vegas lost 9-7

Delwyn Young - 3 for 5, 2B, HR (9), 3 RBI, 2 R, K, CS

Sacramento flipped out for 5 in the 4th and 4 in the 5th to put the 51's away. BJ LaMura, making just his 2nd start of the season, lasted just 3.1 innings and allowed 3 ER. He did, however, only allow 1 hit, but couldnt find the strike zone as he issued 6 walks. Eric Stults backed him up, but gave up 2 runs while recording only 2 outs. Dwayne Pollok didnt help his cause, allowing 4 runs, though only 1 was earned after he committed a fielding error. Eric Hull was the bright spot, tossing 2 perfect frames. It seems like I'm repeating myself, but Delwyn Young missed hitting for the cycle by a triple. That's 4 times in his last 9 games that he's missed the cycle by a hit, and 5 times in that same period that he's had at least 3 hits. Young's June line is mighty impressive: .392/.392/.765. Andy LaRoche did not play. Vegas plays a doubleheader tomorrow, starting at 4:05pm.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_14_lvgaaa_srcaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville won 7-5

Xavier Paul - 0 for 5, K
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 4, BB
Cory Dunlap - 2 for 4, 2B, BB, K
Anthony Raglani - 1 for 3, RBI, 2 R, 2 BB, K

Jon Meloan - 1 IP, 2 Hits, 2 R (1 ER), 2 BB, K

The Suns battled back from an early deficit to take their 4th win out of 5. Starter Eric Cyr had an off night, allowing 3 runs in 5 innings, though he won his 6th. Cyr gave up all 3 runs in the 3rd, but the Suns came back in the top of the 4th to tie the game and added another in the 6th to take the lead. 3 more in the 8th ensured the victory. Jon Meloan had an off night, but managed not to give the game away. Meloan's ERA rose to 2.45. Dunlap hit his 10th double. Raglani drew another 2 walks. Hu and Paul are still struggling. Jacksonville plays Montgomery again tomorrow at 4:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_14_jaxaax_monaax_1


High A - Inland Empire lost 12-0

Blake DeWitt - 3 for 4, 2 2B's
Lucas May - 0 for 4
Travis Denker - 0 for 2
Russell Mitchell - 2 for 4, 2B, K, E
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 1 for 4

Starter Mario Alvarez lasted just two-thirds of an inning, allowing 5 unearned runs, as the 66ers were blanked for just the 3rd time this season. Alvarez allowed a 1 out double before Mitchell's error and a hit batter loaded the bases. A sac fly scored the 1st run, though it should have been the final out of the inning. 2 more singles were followed by 2 wild pitches, 1 of which scored a run. Then another single and a double spelled the end for Alvarez, who lost his 4th game of the season. Jordan Pratt didnt fare much better, allowing 6 runs in 2.2 innings. Jesus Rodriguez pitched 4.2 innings of 1 run ball, though the game was long over by then. Blake DeWitt and Russell Mitchell both raised their doubles totals to 18. Mitchell and Shane Justis committed errors #4 and #12 respectively. The Empire returns home for a 3 game series with Lancaster that will decide the first half's champion, starting tomorrow at 7:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_14_inlafa_bakafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes lost 8-2

Juan Rivera - 1 for 4
Josh Bell - 1 for 4, R, 2 K's
Carlos Santana - 1 for 3, R, K
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 3, 2B, 2 RBI, K

Starter Garrett White lost his 4th as the Loons saw their 5 game win streak come to an end. White allowed 3 runs in 6 innings, raising his ERA to 3.32. Yulkin German allowed 5 runs in 0.2 innings, raising his ERA to 11.45, while Matthew Gomez de Segura lowered his ERA to 20.25. Juan Rivera hit safely for the 3rd straight game since joining the team. Scott Van Slyke clubbed his 10th double. Josh Bell and Carlos Santana added singles. Preston Mattingly did not play. The Loons return to Dow Diamond to host South Bend for 3 heading into the All Star break, starting tomorrow at 4pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_14_lanafx_swmafx_1

Minor League Recap - 6/13/07

Triple A - Las Vegas won 10-6

Delwyn Young - 3 for 5, 2B, 3B, 2 RBI, 3 R
Andy LaRoche - 1 for 4, 2 R, BB

The 51's ended a 3 game skid as they took the series finale from Tuscon. DJ Houlton pitched decently, allowing 4 runs (3 earned) in 5 innings. Houlton started the 6th by allowing 2 baserunners before getting pulled. Matt White came in and allowed both runners to score, adding 1 of his own to tie the game. But Vegas came right back with 3 runs of their own in the top of the 7th to take back the lead and go on to win. Delwyn Young was a homer away from the cycle and has missed the cycle by a triple twice in his last 7 games. Young collected his 22nd double and 2nd triple. LaRoche reached base twice and drove in a pair of runs. The 51's head to Sacramento for 5 games in 4 days starting tomorrow at 7:05pm.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_13_lvgaaa_tucaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville won 4-0

Xavier Paul - 1 for 4
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 4
Anthony Raglani - 0 for 3, BB

Justin Orenduff - 6 IP, 3 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, 3 K's

Justin Orenduff and Ramon Troncoso combined for a 4 hit shutout as the Suns took the series opener from Montgomery. Orenduff won his 2nd game of the year, working a season high 6 innings and lowering his ERA to 4.40. Troncoso picked up his 1st Double A save and is sporting a 2.93 ERA. Anthony Raglani drew his 42nd walk, while Xavier Paul hit in his 5th straight. Chin Lung Hu is hitting only .286 in June and Cory Dunlap got the day off. The Suns play Montgomery again tomorrow at 5:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_13_jaxaax_monaax_1


High A - Inland Empire won 8-7

Blake DeWitt - 2 for 4, 2B, HR (7), RBI, 2 R, BB, E
Lucas May - 1 for 5, RBI, R, K, PB
Travis Denker - 1 for 2, 3 R, 3 BB
Russell Mitchell - 3 for 5, RBI, R, K
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 1 for 2, 2B, RBI, 2 BB

Jesus Castillo - 5 IP, 5 Hits, 4 R (2 ER), 2 BB, 6 K's

The 66ers took an early lead and were up 4-0 heading into the bottom of the 5th. Jesus Castillo had been cruising, allowing just 1 hit up until that point. But Castillo fell apart, after a leadoff single and a fly out, another single and DeWitt's error loaded the bases. The 1st run was cashed in on a single, and that was followed by a balk that scored the 2nd. Following a strikeout, another balk scored the 3rd run and the 4th came in on a single to tie the game. Castillo struck out the final batter to end the inning and his outing. Both teams went down in order in the 6th. Then in the 7th, Ryan Rogowski led off with a walk and went to 3rd on DeWitt's double. Lucas May's groundout scored Rogowski. Travis Denker was intentionally walked to bring up Russell Mitchell. Mitchell singled to load the bases and Anthony Harper reached on an error that scored DeWitt. Ivan De Jesus Jr added a sac fly to put the 66ers up 7-4. But the bullpen gave up the lead in the bottom of the inning to again tie the game. In the top of the 9th, Travis Denker singled to lead off the inning and after Russell Mitchell struck out, Anthony Harper doubled to plate Denker and give the Empire an 8-7 lead. Francisco Felix came in for the save and, although he allowed the tying run to reach 3rd with 2 outs, he struck out the final batter to preserve the win. The Empire plays their getaway game in Bakersfield tomorrow at 7:30pm.


http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_13_inlafa_bakafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes won 7-3

Juan Rivera - 2 for 3, HR (1), 2 RBI, 3 R, 2 BB
Josh Bell - 1 for 4, 3B, 2 RBI
Preston Mattingly - 2 for 4, R, K, E
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, R, 2 K's

Clayton Kershaw - 7 IP, 4 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, 8 K's

Clayton Kershaw came back with a vengeance after skipping a start to earn his 7th win of the season. Kershaw faced off with fellow 2006 first round pick Travis Snider and, although Snider singled off him in the 1st inning, Kershaw had the last laugh. Kershaw picked him off (1 of 2 pickoffs for Clayton) and struck him out the next 2 times he faced him. Kershaw's ERA is now a miniscule 1.89 and he's struck out 82 batters in 62 innings. He's also allowed just 1 earned run in his last 30 innings. Preston Mattingly committed his 18th error but also continued his hot hitting in June. He's hitting .348 this month and his average has risen to .250 overall. Josh Bell collected his 2nd triple of the season. Juan Rivera, recently assigned from extended spring training, hit his 1st HR of the season and has started off hot, going 3 for his first 7 with a pair of walks. The Loons conclude their series with Lansing tomorrow at 4pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_13_lanafx_swmafx_1

Minor League Recap - 6/12/07

Triple A - Las Vegas lost 2-1

Delwyn Young - 0 for 4, 3 K's
Andy LaRoche - 1 for 4, 2B

Miguel Pinango - 5 IP, 5 Hits, 0 R, 3 BB, 5 K's

A strong start from Miguel Pinango was wasted as the 51's lost in the 9th inning. Pinango lowered his ERA to 3.55 and, while he allowed 8 baserunners, 5 were erased on the basepaths thanks to 3 pickoffs and 2 runners caught stealing. Andy LaRoche hit his 7th double. Delwyn Young's average fell to .296. The 51's play Tuscon again tomorrow at 6pm.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_12_lvgaaa_tucaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville had the day off


High A - Inland Empire won 3-2

Travis Denker - 1 for 4, R, BB
Lucas May - 2 for 4, R, BB
Russell Mitchell - 0 for 5, K
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 1 for 3, E

Alberto Bastardo earned his 4th win in a pitcher's duel that saw the 66ers maintain their tie for first place. Bastardo allowed just 1 ER over 6.2 innings, lowering his ERA to 5.17. Cory Wade picked up his 4th save, allowing just a solo HR and 2 walks. Lucas May has 4 multi-hit games in a row, raising his average in June to .385. Ivan De Jesus Jr committed his 11th error. The Empire faces off with Bakersfield again tomorrow at 7:30pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_12_inlafa_bakafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes won 9-7

Josh Bell - 2 for 4, 2B, 2 R, BB, K
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 5, RBI, R, 2 K's
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 3, BB, K
Carlos Santana - 2 for 4, 3 RBI

The game almost got away from the Loons late, but they held on to pull to 3 games under .500. Cody White earned his 7th win of the year, allowing just 1 run over 5 innings. Yulkin German and Thomas Melgarejo combined for 3 shutout innings before recently demoted Matthew Gomez de Segura came in for the 9th. His ERA in the Cally league was 10.32 and it skyrocketed in his Low A debut, as he allowed 6 ER in only 0.1 innings. His Loons ERA is 162! Luckily, Miguel Sanfler came in and finished off the game for his 2nd save. Josh Bell hit his 14th double, while Carlos Santana raised his average to .181. Preston Mattingly's basehit was an RBI single in the 9th. The Loons return to Dow Diamond for a 9 game homestand, starting tomorrow with Lansing at 4pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_12_swmafx_wmiafx_1

Minor League Recap - 6/11/07

Triple A - Las Vegas lost 8-5

Delwyn Young - 1 for 4, R, K, SB
Andy LaRoche - 2 for 4, RBI, R, SB

The 51's took the lead early, scoring twice in the 2nd and 3 times in the 3rd. William Juarez pitched decently, surrendering 3 runs in the 5th, his last inning of the outing. But the bullpen couldnt hold on, as Matt Riley allowed an unearned run before Matt White gave up 4 and the game. Andy LaRoche stole his 1st base of the year, while Delwyn Young stole his 4th. Vegas continues their series in Tuscon tomorrow at 7pm.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_11_lvgaaa_tucaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville won 7-4

Xavier Paul - 2 for 5, 2B, R, 2 K's
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 5, RBI, 2 R, K
Anthony Raglani - 2 for 2, 2B, RBI, R, 2 BB
Cory Dunlap - 0 for 1, K

Zach Hammes - 5 IP, 3 Hits, 2 ER, 2 BB, 4 K's
Jon Meloan - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's

Zach Hammes finally earned his first win of the season as the Suns won their series against Chattanooga. Hammes has struggled as a starter, so this outing was an encouraging step forward. Jon Meloan came in for the save and has a scoreless string of 14.1 innings. Xavier Paul hit his 12th double, and Anthony Raglani did him one better by hitting his 13th. The Suns hit the road, heading for a 5 game series with Montgomery that starts Wednesday.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_11_cngaax_jaxaax_1


High A - Inland Empire won 4-3

Blake DeWitt - 0 for 4, R, BB, 2 K's, E
Lucas May - 3 for 5, 2B, HR (11), 3 RBI, 2 R, K, 2 PB's
Russell Mitchell - 0 for 4, K
Travis Denker - 2 for 3, RBI, BB, 2 E's
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 0 for 3, BB, E

Javy Guerra - 6 IP, Hit, 2 R (0 ER), 4 BB, 6 K's

Javy Guerra allowed just 2 unearned runs on 1 hit on the way to his 4th win. Guerra has gone at least 6 innings and allowed 1 earned run or less in 3 of this last 4 starts. Lucas May had a big day at the plate, clubbing his 11th HR and his 15th double. May's monthly splits are interesting, as he hit .333 in April, .175 in May and .371 so far in June. Travis Denker's 2 hit effort raised his average to .341. The Empire plays Bakersfield again tomorrow at 7:30pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_11_inlafa_bakafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes played a doubleheader

Game 1 - Great Lakes won 5-4

Josh Bell - 1 for 4, RBI, R
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, 2 K's

Josh Wall - 6 IP, 11 Hits, 4 R (3 ER), 5 BB, K, WP, HBP, E

Josh Wall did his best "Wild Thing" impression through 6 innings and still managed to earn his 3rd win. The Loons turned 5 double plays in 7 innings, which made up for 3 errors. Josh Bell is cold in June, hitting just .195. Preston Mattingly, however, is batting .351 this month. James Peterson had a 4 for 4 night and Tommy Giles, who was just called in from extended spring training, went 3 for 3 in his debut.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_11_swmafx_wmiafx_1


Game 2 - Great Lakes won 3-0

Juan Rivera - 1 for 4, R
Josh Bell - 0 for 3, RBI, 2 K's
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 3, 2B
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 3
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 2, R, BB

David Pfeiffer made his first start since being demoted and earned the win. Pfeiffer tossed 5 shutout innings, scattering 6 hits and allowing 2 walks while striking out a pair. Michael Gardner pitched 2 scoreless to preserve the shutout. The offense did all their scoring in the 6th inning. Trayvon Robinson walked and Juan Rivera collected his first hit of the season. After Adolfo Gonzalez popped out, Eduardo Perez walked to load the bases. Then James Peterson hit a 2 run single to put the Loons ahead. Josh Bell added an RBI groundout and Preston Mattingly flied out to end the inning. Great Lakes plays their getaway game with West Michigan tomorrow at 4pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_11_swmafx_wmiafx_2

Minor League Recap - 6/10/07

Triple A - Las Vegas lost 8-7

Delwyn Young - 3 for 6, 3 RBI, 2 R, 2 K's
Andy LaRoche - 0 for 3, 2 BB, K

It was a back and forth affair that went to extra innings but the 51's just couldnt pull it out. Spike Lundberg got the start, lasting 6.2 innings but allowing 7 ER in the process. He entered the 7th tied at 4, but allowed a leadoff HR to fall behind by a run. He got the next 2 batters out but could quite close out the inning, allowing back to back singles before getting pulled. Dwayne Pollok relieved him and gave up a double to the first batter he faced, plating both of Lundberg's runners. Trailing 7-4, the 51's headed into the 9th with a glimmer of hope. Marlon Anderson drew a leadoff, pinch hit walk (that's a mouthful) and Wilson Valdez singled. Then Wilkin Ruan and Delwyn Young hit back to back RBI singles to draw within 1. Ruan was thrown out at 3rd on Young's single. Andy LaRoche walked, and a wild pitch sent Young to 3rd and LaRoche to 2nd. Choo Freeman lined a single into left to score Young but LaRoche held at 3rd. But a groundball to the first baseman off the bat of Larry Barnes ended the inning when the first baseman recorded the out at first and threw home to nail LaRoche to send the game to extra innings. Casey Hoorelbeke barely got out of the 10th, when a 2 out single and 2 stolen bases put the go ahead runner on 3rd. But Casey struck out the final batter to quell the threat. His luck wouldnt last, however, as he allowed a leadoff HR to begin the 11th. The 51's were retired in order in the bottom of the inning to end the game. Delwyn Young went 3 for 6, upping his average to .303. LaRoche drew a pair of walks. Vegas heads out on an 8 game road trip, starting tomorrow in Tuscon at 7pm.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_10_freaaa_lvgaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville lost 8-2

Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 4, R, BB
Xavier Paul - 1 for 4, 2B, K, E
Cory Dunlap - 1 for 3, RBI, BB, K
Anthony Raglani - 1 for 4, HR (10), RBI, R, 2 K's

Greg Miller - 0 IP, Hit, 5 R (4 ER), 4 BB, 0 K's

The Suns lead was short-lived as the pitching staff gave the game away. Starter Alvis Ojeda pitched well, allowing 2 runs over 6 innings. But he was relieved by the recently demoted Greg Miller, who couldnt find the plate. Miller started off the inning by walking the first 2 batters he faced. Then he allowed an RBI single, before walking another 2 batters, including walking in a run. To make things even worse, he wild pitched in yet another run and was finally pulled. I applaud him for not just giving up, but hope to all hopes that he can somehow pull it together. Paul committed his 3rd error of the year but also hit his 11th double. Raglani hit his 10th HR, his first in the month of June. Hu drew another walk, as did Dunlap. The Suns close out their series with Chattanooga tomorrow at 9:05am.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_10_cngaax_jaxaax_1


High A - Inland Empire won 10-9

Blake DeWitt - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, R, 2 K's
Lucas May - 2 for 4, RBI
Russell Mitchell - 1 for 3, 2 R, BB, SB
Travis Denker - 1 for 3, 2B, 2 R, BB
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 3, 2 RBI, R, K
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 0 for 1

It looked like a lost cause early for the 66ers. Starter Marlon Arias pitched just 2+ innings, allowing 5 runs before being replaced in the 3rd. And though the pen did little to help their cause, the offense won the game for the Empire. The tide changed in the 5th inning, when the 66ers went into the bottom half down 6-2. Following a Travis Denker popout, Jamie Hoffman, Shane Justis and Adam Godwin all singled to plate a run. Then Bridger Hunt grounded into a force out for the 2nd out of the inning. But the 66ers rallied, as Gabe Gutierrez hit an RBI single that was followed by DeWitt's 2 run double to tie the game. Lucas May singled to score the go ahead run and Mitchell hit a single of his own. Denker made the last out as well. But the 66ers wouldnt hold the lead for long, as Modesto tied the score in the 6th and scored a pair in the 8th to take a 9- lead. But in the bottom of the 8th, after a short delay, Russell Mitchell and Travis Denker drew back to back walks to put the go ahead run on base. Drew Locke attempted to sacrifice the runners to 2nd and 3rd but popped out. Shane Justis was hit by a pitch to load the bases and Ryan Rogowski drew a bases loaded walk to pull the team within a run. And it came down to the recently promoted Bridger Hunt, who singled in 2 to put the 66ers ahead. Kyle Wilson closed it out to preserve the Empire's first place standing in the league. DeWitt hit double #15, while Denker hit #13. By all accounts, Denker should be in Double A by now. Mitchell stole his 3rd base of the year. Lucas May had his 2nd multi-hit game in a row. The Empire heads to Bakersfield for 4, starting tomorrow at 7:30pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_10_modafa_inlafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes won 8-5

Josh Bell - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, R
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 4, RBI, R

Another 5 run inning occured in this game and changed the Loons' fortunes late. Great Lakes led heading into the 8th 3-1, but Miguel Sanfler allowed 3 runs to put the Loons down by 1. In the bottom half, Josh Bell led off the inning with his 13th double. Carlos Santana sacrificed but reached safely on a very close play and the opposing manager was ejected. That may have fueled Great Lakes' rally, as Scott Van Slyke hit an RBI single, but that was followed by 2 outs. However, Matt Berezay and Eduardo Perez doubled in a pair of runs each to put the Loons up by 4. Fort Wayne managed a run in the 9th but the Loons closed it out for the win. Josh Bell raised his average back up to .274. Scott Van Slyke has hit safely in 8 of his last 10. Preston Mattingly did not play and Clayton Kershaw did not pitch, though I dont think he's injured. Great Lakes heads to West Michigan for a doubleheader tomorrow, starting at 3:30pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_10_ftwafx_swmafx_1

Minor League Recap - 6/09/07

Triple A - Las Vegas won 4-3

James Loney - 2 for 4, 2 2B's
Delwyn Young - 0 for 4, K
Andy LaRoche - 2 for 3, HBP

The 51's were light on starters, but managed to squeak out a 1 run victory on the backs of 3 relievers. BJ LaMura got the start and pitched decently, allowing just 2 runs (1 earned) in 4 innings. DJ Houlton took over in the 5th and tossed 2 innings of 1 run ball. Finally, Eric Hull came in and spun 3 perfect frames, striking out 5 hitters. Loney and LaRoche had multi-hit nights, with Loney picking up doubles #18 and #19. LaRoche raised his average to .237. Delwyn Young went hitless but is still batting .297. Vegas' series with Fresno concludes tomorrow at 12:05pm.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_09_freaaa_lvgaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville won 7-3

Anthony Raglani - 1 for 3, 2B, R, 2 BB, K
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, 2B, HR (3), 2 RBI, 2 R, BB
Xavier Paul - 2 for 3, R, 2 BB, K, 2 SB's
Cory Dunlap - 1 for 3, 2B, 3 RBI, R, 2 BB

Another strong start from Giuseppe Norrito saw the Suns hold onto a commanding lead from the start. Norrito pitched 7 innings of 1 run ball on the way to his 2nd win of the year. Chin Lung Hu hit his 3rd HR and his 23rd double. Xavier Paul reached base 4 times and stole his 9th and 10th bases. Cory Dunlap hit his 9th double, while Anthony Raglani connected for his 12th. Jacksonville plays an early game with Chattanooga tomorrow at 12:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_09_cngaax_jaxaax_1


High A - Inland Empire won 10-3

Blake DeWitt - 2 for 4, R, BB
Lucas May - 3 for 5, 2 2B's, 2 RBI, 2 R
Russell Mitchell - 0 for 4, BB, 4 K's
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 3, R, BB, K, SB
Travis Denker - 2 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 R, E
Ivan De Jesus Jr - 1 for 3, R, BB

Jesus Castillo - 1 IP, Hit, R (0 ER), BB, K

The scoring started early for the 66ers, who dropped a 5 spot in the bottom of the first and never looked back. Mario Alvarez started his first game of the season and did very well, allowing just 1 run on 2 hits over 6 innings. It was his first win of the season. Starter Jesus Castillo pitched an inning of relief, allowing an unearned run on Denker's 5th error of the season. Lucas May hit doubles #13 and #14. Travis Denker hit his 12th. Blake DeWitt continues to hit well in June, batting .333. Russell Mitchell didnt put a ball in play and has been really struggling, hitting .167 this month. Hoffman stole his 11th base. Ivan De Jesus Jr drew his 32nd walk, nearly equalling his season total of strikeouts (33). The Empire looks to stay in first place as they take on Modesto in the series finale tomorrow at 2:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_09_modafa_inlafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes lost 5-4

Josh Bell - 2 for 4, 2 2B's, RBI, K
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 3, HR (3), RBI, R, BB, 2 K's
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 4, K
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4

Lefty Thomas Melgarejo started on short rest for the Loons, who couldnt hold onto an early lead. The offense gave him a run in the bottom of the 2nd on Preston Mattingly's 3rd longball of the year. But it was short lived, as Melgarejo blew the lead in the 4th and allowed 4 more runs in the 5th. Josh Bell had a nice game, doubling twice to give him 12 on the year. Trayvon Robinson and Scott Van Slyke each singled. Hopefully Kershaw will get the start tomorrow at noon.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_09_ftwafx_swmafx_1

Draft Review Part 2

Russell Martin, Matt Kemp and Andy LaRoche were all taken after the first 5 rounds of the draft. The Dodgers made 34 picks on day 2 and there could be another Martin or Kemp or LaRoche among them. Now I'll go over the second tier of draft picks and try to find some hidden gems.

Rounds 6 and 7: Justin Miller and Danny Danielson, RHP's

Miller and Danielson were two guys I spotted prior to the draft. Both are projectable righties who came on this spring and really raised their stock due to improved stuff. Miller was undrafted out of high school and attended Johnson County CC in Kansas, where he established himself as the best Juco pitcher in the state. He's a good athlete who started in right field when he wasnt pitching. Coming into the spring, Miller stood 6'2 and 180 lbs while sitting in the 86-87mph range with his fastball. But after adding 2 inches and 20 lbs to his frame, his fastball jumped to the low 90s. He also has a usable slider and should continue to improve his stuff with coaching and experience.

Danielson attended the high profile Russell County HS in Alabama, the alma mater of Colby and Cory Rasmus, who are now prospects in the Cardinals' and Braves' systems. Danielson has gotten much less hype but has an impressive 6'5 210 lbs frame and a fastball that has touched 93mph. He will have to continue to improve his secondary offerings but could be a real steal given his size and projectability.


Rounds 8 and 12: Alex Garabedian and Jessie Mier, C's

The Dodgers took a couple of big backstops early on the second day. Garabedian was a high profile high school senior who attended the University of Miami before transferring to the College of Charleston after his freshman year. Garabedian's 6'2 220 lbs frame matches his power/power package, as he hit .356 with 13 Homeruns this spring and shut down opposing base stealers. He's still raw defensively but gives an all out effort and is very aggressive.

Mier is a different story. He was drafted as a college sophomore by the Indians but decided to stay 4 years at Lewis and Clark state. Mier's defense is his calling card, registering 1.9 pop times to second with regularity and showing the ability to call a quality game. He's also bilingual, an invaluable asset for any organization with latin american players. And while his glove is his best tool, Mier hit very well this season, putting up the same .356 average that Garabedian posted. These two compliment each other nicely, and should provide quality depth to a system that was short on catchers.


Rounds 11 and 21: Paul Koss and Terry Doyle, RHP's

A pair of righties from predominant colleges, both made the Cape Cod League Top 30 Prospects list last year. Koss was USC's closer in 2006 but a terrible season saw him go undrafted and return to school for his senior season. It was the right move, as Koss vastly improved his ERA from 6.28 to 2.52 and led the PAC 10 with 14 saves. Koss' big frame belies his stuff, which doesnt project dominate pro hitters. While his slider rates his as a plus pitch, his fastball sits around 90 and is just an average offering. He looks like a bigger version of Mark Alexander. Koss should move extremely fast through the system, but his future with the big club is uncertain given his underwhelming fastball.

Doyle is another imposing figure on the mound, standing 6'4 230 lbs. He also enjoyed a successful stay in the Cape, finishing 2nd in wins and strikeouts on the way to being named the MVP of the playoffs as his team won the championship. Unfortunately, like Koss, Doyle has an unimpressive fastball that sits in the mid 80s. He has a good curveball and relies on commanding his 4 pitch repertoire to have any success. Unless he can add velocity, I dont see him being anymore than a Triple A reliever/long man. Maybe a move to the pen could boost his fastball to the 90mph range.


Rounds 14 and 16: Devin Fuller and Andres Santiago, RHP's

Fuller and Santiago are a pair of pitchers who are built more like linebackers. Fuller was ranked as the 4th best player in the state of Arizona by Perfect Game Crosschecker. After giving up football to pursue a career in baseball last fall, Fuller's velocity jumped from the mid 80s to the low 90s and his stock soared. Fuller also has flashed a plus slurve/slider around 80mph that has promise. Given his 6'3 230 lbs frame and the amount of effort in his delivery, to go along with the fact that he was drafted out of the state of Arizona, the obvious comparison is Jon Meloan. Fuller is committed to Arizona State and may honor that commitment if he doesnt receive a hefty bonus.

Santiago was the only Puerto Rican drafted by the Dodgers this year. He has a big, strong frame and a loose arm that generates fastballs in the 88-90 range. Santiago also has the potential to spin a good curveball in the mid 70s, though the pitch is still inconsistent. He doesnt really have a changeup and will need to develop one if he wants to remain a starter. Unlike Fuller, Santiago should be a fairly easy sign and, as a 17 year old, could spend the next 2 years in the rookie leagues.


Rounds 19 and 31: Joris Bert and Rafael Thomas, OF's

Bert and Thomas are a couple of rabbits with very different backgrounds. Bert played 5 years with the French national team before coming to America to attend a junior college in Texas. His best tool is his speed and he stole 38 bases this spring. He also hit .403 and is a good bunter. Joris could be the first Native Frenchman to be drafted and signed to a professional contract.

Thomas is another speed demon who is very aggressive on the basepaths and fits the mold of a classic leadoff hitter. He uses his speed to cover lots of ground in center field and even has some pop in his bat. He's committed to Oklahoma State and will likely attend college unless he gets a top 10 round money.


Rounds 20 and 25: Sean Koecheler and Tim Sexton, RHP's

Koecheler and Sexton are a pair of 6'5 Florida righties with big frames. Koecheler was rated as the 13th best prospect in the state with the chance to go in the top 10 rounds. For whatever reason, he fell all the way to round 20 and would have been an ideal candidate as a draft and follow under the old rules. Now, the Dodgers will either have to cough up a substantial bonus or watch him go to college and lose his rights in 2 months. Sean has impressive arm strength, running his fastball up to 95 while sitting in the low 90s. He's more of a thrower right now and needs to work on his curveball. He's considered signable, though he'd need a six figure bonus to skip college.

Sexton is almost identical, in that he has a great frame with good arm strength and lacks a consistent breaking ball. However, Sexton has a commitment to the College of Charleston and will likely honor it unless he gets a good amount of cash. Sexton's delivery may need to be altered, as the drop and drive he uses negates his height advantage and flattens out his curve. Both of these guys would be interesting projects but it's unlikely that either one will sign.


Rounds 23 and 28: Nathan Carter and Nathan Woods, OF's

A pair of Nathans who share athleticism and the ability to play multiple positions. Carter is the brother of D Backs' prospect Chris. While his brother is relegated to first base, Nathan Carter is able to handle the middle of the infield with plus speed and plus arm strength. And despite a smallish 5'11 185 lbs frame, he has surprising power. The downside is his signability, as he committed to Air Force to fulfill his dream of becoming a pilot. If the Dodgers can buy him out of attending college, he'd be an absolute steal.

Woods is much bigger than Carter, standing 6'5 and 200 lbs. He caught in his first two years of high school before outgrowing the position. He's a capable defender at first base and has enough arm strength for an outfield corner. He's also considered a prospect as a pitcher and should play both ways at Belmont. Woods' power potential is intriguing and he should continue to develop his hitting ability in college.


Rounds 26 and 27: Taylor Cole, RHP and Rob Rasmussen, LHP

The Dodgers took a flier on a couple of prep pitchers in the middle rounds, though both of them will likely attend college in the fall. Cole was a late riser this spring, who came out of the shoot firing low 90s fastballs and a quality slider. Though he's only listed at 6'1 175 lbs, he's very athletic and doubled as his team's shortstop. His two way ability led his team to a Nevada state title and he could play both ways at Brigham Young.

Rasmussen is another miniature hurler from the west coast, pitching for Poly HS in Pasadena. Rob's calling card is his mid 70s curveball, which ranked as one of the best breaking balls in the draft. His fastball is fringy, sitting in the mid to high 80s and his 5'10 155 lbs frame doesnt leave much room for projection. Rasmussen is committed to UCLA and will almost certainly end up there.


That about wraps it up. I'll try to update the signing over the next 2 months which will help give us a better idea of how this draft class will look. Any questions or constructive comments are welcomed.

Minor League Recap - 6/08/07

Triple A - Las Vegas lost 8-5

James Loney - 0 for 4, BB, 2 K's
Delwyn Young - 3 for 5, 2B, HR (8), 2 RBI, R, K, SB
Andy LaRoche - 0 for 5, 2 K's

The 51's kept pace with the Grizzlies through the first 4 innings. Fresno scored once in the 3rd and Vegas answered with a run of their own. So Fresno scored 3 more in the 4th and again, Vegas tied it up. Then it was LV's turn to take the lead, scoring in the 5th to take a 5-4 lead and they held it into the 9th. But Dwayne Pollok, coming in for his first save of the season with Vegas, allowed a leadoff walk to score on a 2 out single to send the game into extra innings. Matt Riley wriggled out of a jam in the 10th, when a walk and a force out was followed by a double to put go ahead runs in scoring position. After intentionally walking the bases loaded, Riley struck out the next batter and got a groundout to end the inning. But Casey Hoorelbeke couldnt hold the lead in the 11th, allowing a 2 run double and an RBI single to put the 51's down by 3. Wilson Valdez was stranded after hitting a 2 out double in the bottom of the inning to end the game. Delwyn Young came a triple short of hitting for the cycle, clubbing his 21st double in the process and also stealing his 3rd base. Loney and LaRoche went hitless. Vegas looks to come back strong tomorrow at 7:11pm.

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2007_06_08_freaaa_lvgaaa_1&t=g_box&did=milb


Double A - Jacksonville won 5-4

Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 2, 2 BB
Xavier Paul - 3 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, R
Anthony Raglani - 0 for 1
Cory Dunlap - 1 for 2, 2B, 2 RBI, R, K

Mike Megrew - 4.1 IP, 2 Hits, 4 ER, 6 BB, 3 K's
Jon Meloan - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 5 K's

The Suns took an early lead, when Xavier Paul singled and scored on a wild pitch. But Mike Megrew, who had tossed 3 scoreless, gave up the lead on a solo HR in the 4th and fell apart in the 5th. After a walk, a force out and another walk, Megrew allowed a 2 run double and issued another free pass before being replaced. Cory Dunlap, who didnt start, came in for a double switch. Brian Akin, who came in for Megrew, allowed another run to score before getting out of the inning. The 4-1 lead held until the 7th, when AJ Ellis and David Nicholson drew a pair of 1 out walks and were cashed in by Dunlap's 8th double of the season, pulling the Suns within 1. Chin Lung Hu walked and Wilkin Ruan grounded into a force out to bring up Xavier Paul with the tying run on 3rd and the go ahead run on 2nd. And Paul came up huge, hitting a 2 run single to put Jacksonville up 5-4. Then the team handed the ball and the lead over to Jon Meloan, who flat out dominated tonight. After a pop up to Dunlap, Meloan struck out the next 5 batters to announce his presence with authority. Meloan recorded his 10th save of the season and now has a 2.32 ERA with 44 strikeouts to 11 walks in 31 innings. Paul's 3 for 4 night raised his average to .285 and gives him 10 doubles on the year. Chin Lung Hu is hitting .330, while Anthony Raglani continues to struggle hitting just .228. Jacksonville again hosts Chattanooga tomorrow at 4:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_08_cngaax_jaxaax_1


High A - Inland Empire won 6-2

Ivan De Jesus Jr - 0 for 3, BB, K, HBP, E
Blake DeWitt - 2 for 5, HR (6), 2 RBI, R
Russell Mitchell - 0 for 4, BB, K
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 4
Travis Denker - 0 for 2, R, 2 BB, K, 2 SB's

Demon speed and a great start from Francisco Felix led to the 66ers win. Felix allowed just 1 unearned run over 7 innings for his 2nd High A victory of the season. James Tomlin stole 3 bases, while Travis Denker and Adam Godwin stole 2 a piece and Ryan Rogowski stole his team leading 17th. Godwin was caught attempting to steal home. Blake DeWitt is on fire in June, hitting .333/.438/.593. Jamie Hoffman is hitting .313 on the year, while Denker is batting .331 and has hit safely in 8 of his last 10. The Empire plays Modesto again tomorrow at 7:05pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_08_modafa_inlafa_1


Low A - Great Lakes lost 5-3

Josh Bell - 0 for 3, R, BB, 2 K's
Carlos Santana - 2 for 4, 2 RBI
Preston Mattingly - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 3, 2 K's

The Loons got out to an early lead, scoring on 2 out singles by Carlos Santana and Preston Mattingly. But starter Garrett White and third baseman Justin Fuller led the lead slip away, as White allowed 4 runs, 3 of which were earned and the other was a result of 1 of Fuller's 2 errors. Preston Mattingly is hitting .407 in June, raising his overall average to .259. Josh Bell, on the other hand, is hitting .115 in June and his average has dropped to .263. Clayton Kershaw toes the rubber for the Loons tomorrow at 4pm.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_06_08_ftwafx_swmafx_1