Baseball America's Pioneer League Top 20

After placing 3 prospects on the AZL Top 20, the Dodgers only saw a single player, RHP and 2009 3rd round pick Brett Wallach, make the PL Top 20. With talented hitters such as league-MVP Brian Cavazos-Galvez, Jerry Sands, Angelo Songco and Gorman Erickson putting up outstanding numbers but not getting any recognition as top prospects, it makes me wonder why Baseball America omitted these talented Dodger farmhands. Here are some possible reasons.

1. Ogden's home park

It was mentioned during Matt Eddy's chat that Ogden led the league with 89 home runs, with Missoula placing second with 80 and Helena rounding out the top 3 with a relatively miniscule 46. Eddy suggests Ogden's "extremely favorable power-hitting conditions" was a significant contributor to the Raptors' hitters' success. However, it seems the players didn't get the memo. BCG hit 9 HR at Home and 9 away, Sands hit 7 at Home and 7 away, Songco hit 4 at Home and 3 Away, and Erickson hit 3 at Home and 2 Away. As a matter of fact, Sands, BCG and Erickson had higher OPS's on the Road than at Home. Add to that Sands' overwhelming success in his second stint with Great Lakes in a pitcher-friendly league and the argument doesn't hold much water when you look just a little closer at the numbers.

2. Age

This seems to be a more plausible explanation for me, though everyone except BCG is the age of a college junior. Looking at the top 20 list, there are only 8 players who are 20 or older and only one of those players was a hitter (Carlos Ramirez, a catcher who batted .376/.500/.638). However, the average age of the league was just under 21 (20.8 for hitters and 20.9 for pitchers). So I hardly think that holding someone's age against them when it's average for the league is fair.

3. Athleticism

This seems to be the most likely culprit. None of BCG, Sands, Songco or Erickson are billed as great athletes. Note that the three outfielders profile in corners and Erickson is said to be just "average" behind the plate in the future. Baseball America is a very tools-oriented entity, which places a great amount of importance on projection. And that's not to say that BCG, Sands and Songco aren't athletic enough. Both Galvez and Sands spent some time in CF, and you don't put plodders who can't handle corner spots in center. Songco is the least athletic of the group and still should be able to handle LF.

I believe these rankings represent Baseball America's modus operandi rather than the true talent level of these 4 Dodger prospects. I have no problem with BA.com or its writers and think they can rank prospects any way they like. I just hope that people realize that tools aren't everything and what happens on the field matters.

Dodgers' Minor League Awards

The regular minor league season is over for the Dodgers, with just the fall and winter leagues still to come. And while no titles were conquered, it was an overwhelming success for a good amount of prospects. So without further adeiu, I present my Dodgers' Minor League Awards.


Hitting Prospect of the Year: Dee Gordon

Background: Son of Tom Gordon, the 4th round pick from a year ago surprised me, as I hadn't seen him on any publications' radar screens. I was initially skeptical of the selection when I found out he didn't even play in 2008 prior to signing. But any doubts were left behind when he stepped foot on the field. In his debut, Dee batted .331 for the Ogden Raptors with 13 doubles and 18 stolen bases.

2009 Performance: A full season assignment was somewhat precarious for the 21 year old but he handled it better than anyone could have expected. Overall, Gordon batted .301 during the regular season with a league-leading 73 stolen bases. Impressively, not only did he hit .281 against lefties, but he also walked 17 times in 146 at bats against them to post a strong .376 OBP vs southpaws. Power isn't really a part of his game, though he did club 17 doubles and legged out 12 triples. He also improved his plate discipline during the year, walking more in the second half than the first, despite playing in fewer games. Add to that his .357 batting average in the playoffs, and you have quite a season. Dee was named co-MVP (along with teammate Kyle Russell) and Prospect of the Year for the Midwest league and was also given the Branch Rickey Minor League Player of the Year award by the Dodgers.

Scouting Report: The word most commonly associated with Gordon is "raw." He's still learning how to play the game, instead of relying primarily on his remarkable athleticism. His speed easily rates as an 80 on the (20-80) scouting scale. It not only helps him on the basepaths, but also in the field. He has exceptional range at shortstop with a quick first step and natural actions. His arm is strong enough to stay at the position, but he tends to lower his elbow leading to throwing errors. Dee makes a good amount of contact and is already an adept bunter; he collected 27 bunt hits during the regular season. His plate discipline is improving and should continue to get better. Dee has an rail-thin frame but doesn't project to hit for much power in the future.

2010 and Beyond: Gordon will continue his development at the Dodgers' High A affiliate in the Inland Empire. I wouldn't be surprised to see him reach Double A by the middle of next year. His development path coincides nicely with Rafael Furcal's contract and he should be ready to take over the Dodgers' starting shortstop job in 2012.


Pitching Prospect of the Year: Chris Withrow

Background: Withrow was a late-riser in the 2007 draft, creeping into the first round of mock drafts just weeks before the June event. The Dodgers fell in love with his picture-perfect delivery and projectable frame and decided to nab him with the 20th overall pick. He showed flashes early in his career, touching 98mph in a playoff game during his time in the Gulf Coast League. 2008, on the other hand, was a disaster. After slicing his hand open on a snorkel during the offseason, Chris battled a tender elbow and ended the year with just 4 innings pitched.

2009 Performance: I really wasn't expecting much out of Chris this year, outside of staying healthy enough to pitch a full season. Coupled with his return to the California League, things very well could have turned out ugly. But Withrow persevered and exceeded expectations by reaching Double A at the ripe old age of 20. Beneath his unimpressive 4.51 ERA, you'll find that Withrow had a very successful year with one major problem: walking lefties. His command isn't completely flawed, as he walked less than 2.5 right-handed hitters per 9 innings. It was his 6.67 BB/9 against lefties that caused most of his struggles. Chris' 1.33 ground:fly ratio helped him allow just 3 home runs in the hitter-haven that is the Cal league and he struck out an astounding 10.9 batters per 9 innings for the 66ers. I was surprised by his late season promotion to Chattanooga, but after a disastrous first start (6 ER in 3.1 IP), he posted an ERA of 2.25 in his last 5 appearances of the season.

Scouting Report: As mentioned earlier, Withrow has great mechanics and a very easy arm action that allows him to generate mid 90s heat with minimal effort. His curveball is still inconsistent but shows flashes of being a plus pitch. He needs to work most on his changeup, and as he gains confidence in it, he should be able to pitch more aggressively to lefties. I don't see health being a major obstacle in his future, but I wouldn't be surprised to see Chris taking on a relatively light offseason workload after pitching over 100 innings this season.

2010 and Beyond: Withrow won't turn 21 until next April, but it seems the Dodgers feel he's ready for Double A. The last 21 year old to begin the season for the Dodgers' Double A affiliate was Clayton Kershaw. Chris isn't the prospect Clayton was, but it shows that the Dodgers' are just as confident in his ability. I'd be surprised if he doesn't spend the entire season in Chattanooga next year, but if he's good enough, you could see in Chavez Ravine before long.


Comeback Hitter of the Year: Jerry Sands, OF

Background: The 2008 25th round pick out of Catawba College showed some tools in the GCL, clubbing 10 home runs and drawing 29 walks in 46 games. On the flip side, he batted just .205 with 43 strikeouts. Generally there's no much in the way of expectations out of players picked that late in the draft, but Sands showed there was something there.

2009 Performance: It seems that Sands was destined for another (half) year of rookie ball, so I was surprised to see him debut in Great Lakes in late April. Unfortunately, Jerry lasted just 5 games while batting .118 with 7 strikeouts in 5 games. It seems as though he had a lot of work to do. And between early May and mid June, it appears he made the most of that work. He came out blazing hot in the Pioneer league, batting over .400 in June. He ended up posting a staggering 1.114 OPS in 41 games with the Raptors, slugging 14 home runs (which led the league for a while after he was promoted). He then returned to the Loons and was a different hitter. There was a period in late August when he fell back into some bad habits, striking out a lot, but he ended his return with a line of .287/.394/.586.

Scouting Report: Loons commentators said there's a special sound when the ball comes off Sands' bat. Maybe that's the reason he hit a combined 19 HR between Ogden and Great Lakes in just 73 games. He's shown the ability to draw walks since his debut, having been issued 66 in his 119 pro games. Jerry needs to concentrate on making contact, as he struck out 27 times in 25 games after his return to the Loons. He's also not much of a runner, so he profiles best in an outfield corner.

2010 and Beyond: Sands showed that he's ready for a full season assignment and it'll likely be back in Great Lakes. Inland Empire's outfield looks like it'll be crowded, so unless the Dodgers plan on keeping him at 1B, he should be the Loons' starting RF on opening day.


Comeback Pitcher of the Year: Allen Webster

Background: Like Sands, Webster was drafted in 2008 (18th round) and had a rough go in his debut. While his ERA was low (3.44), he had nearly as many walks (17) as innings pitched (18.1). The high school righty looked like he'd need a few seasons of rookie ball just to get his command under control.

2009 Performance: Allen began the season with the new Arizona league affiliate and looked like a different player. He displayed excellent command of the strike zone, issuing just 14 walks in 47.2 innings compared to 56 strikeouts. A surprise callup was followed by his best outing of the year, a 7.2 inning, 4 hit shutout performance with no walks and 9 strikeouts. Allen ended the season on a sour note, getting blasted for 5 earned runs in just 2.1 innings in his last regular season appearance and then giving up another 5 spot in 3.1 innings in his sole playoff start. However, 2 bad outings can't take away how far he's come as a prospect.

Scouting Report: Allen has a very projectable frame, listed at 6'2 and weighing just 165 pounds. He throws from a high arm slot and gets good downhill plane on his pitches. His fastball sits in the low 90s and touches the mid 90s, while his curveball and changeup are both above average at this stage of his development. His command, once his achilles heel, has become a strength.

2010 and Beyond: Webster will turn 20 next February, so he'll still be young for the Midwest league. After pitching just over 18 innings in his debut and about 70 this year, the Dodgers will be sure to protect Allen's arm over the offseason and will likely limit his innings in 2010.


Hitting Rookie of the Year: Brian Cavazos-Galvez

Background: Brian says he was destined to be a Dodger. He grew up near the Dodgers' Albuquerque Dukes affiliate and his father briefly pitched for the Dodgers in the 80's. After batting .392 this spring with 15 home runs and 63 RBI, the senior out of the University of New Mexico was drafted by LA in the 12th round and quickly signed. The Dodgers actually considered signing him in 2008, but a problem with his draft paperwork led the Dodgers to believe he intended on staying in school.

2009 Performance: BCG began his pro career with little bang, just .233 in 6 June games. But he turned it on quickly in July, hitting .342 with 9 home runs and continued to rake through July by posting a .350/.376/.530 line in the month. That led to him leading the Pioneer league in hits, total bases, doubles and home runs. He also finished 2nd in RBI and 5th in OPS. Shortly after the season, Brian was named the Pioneer league Most Valuable Player.

Scouting Report: Cavazos-Galvez' main tool is his bat. He has strength and bat speed to hit for power now and down the road. He's an aggressive hitter, as evidenced by his 10 walks in his first 71 games. His swing can get long and, while he didn't strike out much in his debut, he'll need to work to make more contact as he moves up the ladder. He has a strong arm but not much range, so he fits best in an outfield corner. He has enough speed to steal a some bases, but he's not a huge threat.

2010 and Beyond: Brian's development will hinge on his ability to continue making contact and start drawing more walks. His performance almost certainly earned him a spot in Great Lakes' outfield, though I wouldn't rule out him skipping the Loons and heading straight for the Empire.


Pitching Rookie of the Year: Aaron Miller

Background: What a long, strange trip it's been. Miller was considered a top prospect in 2006...as an outfielder, but he was dead-set on attending Baylor and ended up as their star hitter for the following few seasons. But this spring, the Bears' rotation was ravaged by injuries and, desperate for arms, Baylor's head coach asked Aaron if he'd be willing to pitch. Aaron obliged and established himself as a top pitching prospect. The Dodgers selected him with the 36th overall pick, in the supplemental first round.

2009 Performance: The Dodgers started out by giving Miller a modest assignment in the rookie level Arizona league. After a few outings where he figured things out, Aaron got on a roll and ended his assignment early as he started mowing down inferior hitters and was ready for A ball. Miller became the Loons' ace, posting an outstanding 2.08 ERA in 7 starts with 38 strikeouts in 30.1 innings. And as if that wasn't enough, he was phenomenal in the playoffs, allowing just a single earned run over 12 innings.

Scouting Report: This spring, Miller was pegged as a raw arm with spotty command but 2 plus pitches in his low 90s fastball and nasty slider. As a pro, however, he looked like a different pitcher. His fastball velocity was more in the high 80s, but his command of the pitch was far better, as he walked just 12 batters in 36 regular season innings. His slider was as good as advertised and he's throwing a changeup. He's very athletic and has a pretty good delivery, so his focus moving forward will be refining his secondary offerings and maintaining his velocity through a full season.

2010 and Beyond: Even though he threw 99 innings between college and the pros, the Dodgers feel Miller is ready for more as he'll head to the Arizona Fall league in the next few weeks. Depending on how that pans out, Miller could find himself anymore from back in Great Lakes to down in Chattanooga to start next season. Either way, he's proving to be a great investment and looks like he could contribute to the Dodgers' staff within the next few years.


Dodgers' 2009 Minor League All Star Team

Catcher: JT Wise (Ogden)
First Base: Jerry Sands (Ogden/Great Lakes)
Second Base: Jaime Pedroza (Great Lakes)
Shortstop: Dee Gordon (Great Lakes)
Third Base: Brian Ruggiano (Ogden)
Left Field: Scott Van Slyke (Inland Empire/Albuquerque)
Center Field: Trayvon Robinson (Inland Empire/Chattanooga)
Right Field: Kyle Russell (Great Lakes)
Designated Hitter: Brian Cavazos-Galvez (Ogden)

Starting Pitcher: Chris Withrow (Inland Empire/Chattanooga)
Starting Pitcher: Ethan Martin (Great Lakes)
Starting Pitcher: Nathan Eovaldi (Great Lakes)
Starting Pitcher: Aaron Miller (AZL/Great Lakes)
Starting Pitcher: Allen Webster (AZL/Ogden)
Setup Man: Steven Ames (Ogden)
Closer: Josh Lindblom (Chattanooga/Albuquerque)

Minor League Recap - 9/13/09

Great Lakes lost 9-4

Dee Gordon - 1 for 5, K (.391 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's, 2 E's (.222 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 4, R, K (.190 BA)
Nick Buss - 1 for 3, HR (1), RBI, 2 R (.316 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 0 for 3, RBI, 2 K's (.200 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.200 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mxesym


Ogden lost 7-4

BCG - 1 for 3, HR (1), 2 RBI, R, BB, K (.143 BA)
Angelo Songco - 2 for 3, 2 2B's, BB, K (.429 BA)
JT Wise - 1 for 3, R, K, HBP (.167 BA)
Nick Akins - 0 for 2, 2 K's (.200 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 2, K (.500 BA)

Brett Wallach - 3 IP, 5 Hits, 4 R (3 ER), 3 BB, 4 K's (9.00 ERA)
Javier Solano - 3 IP, Hit, ER, 2 BB, 2 K's (3.00 ERA)
Carlos Frias - 2.1 IP, 0 Hits, ER, 2 BB, 3 K's (3.86 ERA)
Steven Ames - 0.2 IP, Hit, ER, 0 BB, 2 K's (13.50 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/m4u3j9


Player of the day - Brian Cavazos-Galvez, OF

Not only because of the home run, but because Mr Cavazos-Galvez was named the Pioneer league Prospect of the Year. The league leader in hits, total bases, home runs and doubles also finished second in SLG and RBI, as well as 5th in OPS. The numbers are impressive, but he'll need to prove himself an offensive threat in full season ball before I proclaim him a top prospect.

Minor League Recap - 9/12/09

Great Lakes won 11-10

Dee Gordon - 3 for 5, 2B, 2 RBI, 3 R, K, HBP (.444 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 2 for 4, HR (2), 3 RBI, 2 R, 2 BB (.267 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 5, R, BB, 3 K's, SB (.176 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 2 for 5, RBI, R, 2 K's (.235 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 5, 2 RBI, K (.250 BA)

Geison Aguasviva - 0.1 IP, 2 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 0 K's (2.45 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/oma2hc


Ogden lost 7-2

BCG - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.000 BA)
Angelo Songco - 1 for 4, R, K (.250 BA)
JT Wise - 0 for 3, BB (.000 BA)
Clay Calfee - 1 for 3, RBI, R, BB, 2 K's (.333 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 3, 2B, RBI, K (.333 BA)

Allen Webster - 3.1 IP, 4 Hits, 5 ER, 0 BB, 0 K's (13.50 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/odykch


Player of the day - Jaime Pedroza, 2B

For the second day in a row, Pedroza has hit a season-saving home run. Yesterday, it was a game-winner in the 10th inning. Today, it was a game-tier in the 9th. Add to that the fact that he scored the tying run in the 10th and you have 3 amazingly clutch performances in just a pair of playoff games. What a way to celebrate his 23rd birthday.

Minor League Recap - 9/11/09

Albuquerque lost 1-0

Tony Abreu - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.214 BA)
Xavier Paul - 2 for 4, K (.250 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 4, K (.333 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 4 (.444 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 3 (.182 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nfvpxp


Great Lakes won 3-2

Dee Gordon - 2 for 5, HR (1), RBI, R, 2 K's, CS, E (.385 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 1 for 3, HR (1), RBI, R, 2 BB, E (.182 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 5, 4 K's (.167 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 4, 3B (.167 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 4, 2B, K (.273 BA)

Ethan Martin - 4.2 IP, Hit, ER, BB, 3 K's (1.93 ERA)
Geison Aguasviva - 1.1 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (0.00 ERA)
Nathan Eovaldi - 1 IP, 0 Hits, R (0 ER), 2 BB, 3 K's (0.00 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 3 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, 2 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l488ug


Ogden won 8-4

BCG - 0 for 3, R, SB, HBP (.322 BA)
Angelo Songo - 1 for 3, 2B, RBI, K, HBP (.306 BA)
JT Wise - 2 for 4 (.338 BA)
Clay Calfee - 2 for 2, HR (3), 2 RBI, 2 R, 2 BB (.354 BA)
Nick Akins - 0 for 3, R, BB, 2 K's (.260 BA)

Garrett Gould - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, 3 K's (10.13 ERA)
Ji-Mo Lee - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K's (6.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lavrq4


Player of the day - Loons' pitching

Ethan Martin had one of his best outings of the year in the most important game of the year. He kept his pitch count low, trusted his defense and threw strikes when he needed to. Aguasviva picked up for him and did well, not allowing Martin's inherited runner to score. Eovaldi struck out the side but allowed 2 walks. He was also victimized by Dee Gordon's throwing error with 2 outs. The real hero may be Cole St Clair, who pitched longer than he has at any time this year. He eluded a bases loaded jam in the 9th and the winning run on 1st base in the 10th to secure the win. The Loons are ready to face Fort Wayne in the league semifinals.

Minor League Recap - 9/10/09

Albuquerque lost 8-6

Tony Abreu - 2 for 6, R, 2 K's (.300 BA)
Xavier Paul - 1 for 4, HR (1), RBI, R (.125 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 3 for 5, 2B, RBI, 2 R, K (.375 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 5, RBI, K (.250 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 2 IP, 3 Hits, 0 R, BB, 2 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nko3mr


Great Lakes lost 7-0

Dee Gordon - 1 for 4, SB (.375 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 4, K (.286 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.125 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 3, 2 K's (.286 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mv33fd


Ogden lost 4-3

BCG - 1 for 3, BB, CS (.326 BA)
Angelo Songco - 1 for 4 (.305 BA)
Clay Calfee - 1 for 3, R, BB, 2 K's (.333 BA)
Nick Akins - 2 for 4, HR (4), 2 RBI, 2 R (.268 BA)
Kyle Orr - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI (.223 BA)

Javier Solano - 1.2 IP, Hit, 2 ER, 3 BB, 0 K's (4.64 ERA)
Steven Ames - 1.2 IP, 2 Hits, ER, 0 BB, K (2.10 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kp99j5


Player of the day - Nick Akins, OF

Akins hasn't been quite as dominant in Ogden as he had been in the AZL, but his numbers are anything but disappointing. He's struggling against lefties, which is weird for a righty. His OPS is a very respectable .858 in Ogden and .967 overall. He's showing plenty of power with 20 doubles and 11 home runs. He's also walking more in the Pioneer league than the AZL. It should be very interesting to see what Nick can do in full season ball next year.

Minor League Recap - 9/09/09

Albuquerque lost 6-2

Tony Abreu - 1 for 4, 3B, RBI, R, K (.250 BA)
Xavier Paul - 0 for 4, 3 K's, OF Assist (.000 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 3, BB, 2 K's (.333 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 3, SB (.000 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lu8g93


Great Lakes won 7-2

Dee Gordon - 2 for 4, RBI, R, 2 K's, SB (.500 BA)
Kyle Russell - 2 for 3, 3B, HR (1), RBI, 2 R, BB, E (.667 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 4, RBI (.250 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 4, 2 RBI (.250 BA)

Aaron Miller - 6 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, 9 K's (0.00 ERA)
Geison Aguasviva - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, K (0.00 ERA)

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2009_09_09_wmiafx_swmafx_1


Ogden lost 17-1

Blake Smith - 1 for 2, 2B, R, K, OF Assist (.212 BA)
JT Wise - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.333 BA)
Angelo Songco - 0 for 3, K (.307 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 3 (.258 BA)

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2009_09_09_ogdrok_orerok_1


Player of the day - Aaron Miller, LHP

In his 11th pro start, Miller was tabbed to toe the hill as the Loons first ever post-season pitcher. And he did not disappoint. After struggling with his command early, Aaron didn't allow a hit until the 5th inning as the Loons were all over Tigers' prospect Casey Crosby, who was arguably the laegue's best pitcher. Miller's velocity hasn't been as advertised, but his breaking ball is a devastating offering and he's shown far better command than he did at Baylor. Even without the great fastball, he shouldn't have a problem cruising up to Double A.

Minor League Recap - 9/08/09

Ogden lost 7-6

Clay Calfee - 1 for 5, RBI, 2 K's (.333 BA)
Angelo Songco - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, R, BB, K (.313 BA)
JT Wise - 2 for 4, 2B, HR (8), RBI, 2 R, BB, K (.343 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 5, 3 K's (.206 BA)

Brett Wallach - 3 IP, 5 Hits, 4 ER, 4 BB, 4 K's (5.23 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lx5xtg


Player of the day - JT Wise, C

After a down August, JT is on fire in September. In fact, over his past 7 games, he's recorded multiple hits in each of the contests with 4 home runs and 5 doubles. His .993 OPS is 3rd on the team and easily in the Top 10 in the league. The Raptors have plenty of pop on offense and Wise is yet another bullet in the magazine.

Minor League Recap - 9/07/09

Albuquerque won 7-2

Tony Abreu - 2 for 5, 2B, R, 2 K's (.353 BA)
Xavier Paul - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 R, BB, K, E (.328 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 2 for 4, 3B, RBI, 2 R, BB (.256 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 2, R, BB (.167 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/np45th


Chattanooga lost 6-5

Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 3, 2 HR (2), 2 RBI, 2 R (.246 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 2 for 4, RBI (.256 BA)

Javy Guerra - 1.1 IP, 4 Hits, 3 ER, 0 BB, 2 K's (4.13 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kmsc2j


Inland Empire lost 11-5

Steven Caseres - 0 for 3, RBI, 2 K's (.260 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 4, RBI, R, K, SB (.238 BA)

Justin Miller - 4 IP, 7 Hits, 6 ER, 2 BB, K (8.13 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ntkqzj


Great Lakes lost 4-3

Alfredo Silverio - 3 for 4, 2B (.284 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 3, R, BB, K (.260 BA)

Roberto Feliciano - 1 IP, 3 Hits, 2 ER, 2 BB, 0 K's (2.70 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/molvu7


Ogden lost 15-9

Brian Ruggiano - 3 for 4, HR (8), 3 RBI, 2 R, 2 E's (.377 BA)
BCG - 3 for 4, 2B, HR (18), 2 RBI, 2 R, OF Assist (.325 BA)
Angelo Songco - 1 for 3, 2B, RBI, R, 2 BB (.308 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 5, 2B, R, 3 K's (.256 BA)
Tae-Hyeok Nam - 2 for 5, R, 2 K's (.333 BA)

Garrett Gould - 0.2 IP, 4 Hits, 5 R (3 ER), BB, K (16.20 ERA)
Allen Webster - 2.1 IP, 9 Hits, 5 ER, 2 BB, 3 K's (3.00 ERA)
Ji-Mo Lee - 1 IP, 4 Hits, 2 ER, BB, K (9.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ln4swr


Player of the day - Trayvon Robinson, OF

Tray has been a very pleasant surprise this season. After learning how to bat left-handed a few years ago, Robinson actually had more success from the left side this year. He ends the season with 17 HR, 5 more than he'd hit in the past 4 seasons combined. He also drew 60 walks after drawing 89 in that same time span. It appears that Tray has made some strides in his development and, having just turned 22, can be considered a legitimate prospect.

Minor League Recap - 9/06/09

Albuquerque lost 3-1

Xavier Paul - 1 for 5, K (.330 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.297 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's (.253 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 3, BB, E (.250 BA)
Tony Abreu - 0 for 1, K (.352 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (2.54 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nw82cq


Chattanooga won 6-0

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, R, BB (.222 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, RBI, K (.254 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/l2tcrc


Inland Empire lost 7-6

Steven Caseres - 0 for 5, R, 2 K's (.262 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 2 for 4, RBI, R, CS (.238 BA)

Tim Sexton - 4 IP, 6 Hits, 5 ER, 2 BB, 3 K's (3.96 ERA)
Kenley Jansen - 1 IP, 4 Hits, ER, BB, 2 K's (4.63 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l7nyg3


Great Lakes won 8-2

Kyle Russell - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, 2 R, BB, 2 K's, 3 SB (.272 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 0 for 3, R, 2 BB, 3 K's (.280 BA)
Jerry Sands - 2 for 3, 2 2B's, 2 RBI, 2 R, BB, HBP (.257 BA)

Ethan Martin - 3 IP, 3 Hits, 2 R (1 ER), 0 BB, 6 K's (3.87 ERA)
Nathan Eovaldi - 3 IP, 3 Hits, 0 R, BB, 3 K's (3.27 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (2.48 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/my9m3e


Ogden lost 5-3

Clay Calfee - 0 for 4 (.345 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 4, R, 3 K's (.307 BA)
JT Wise - 2 for 4, 2B, HR (7), RBI, R (.338 BA)
Kyle Orr - 2 for 4, 3B, RBI, K (.222 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 4, E (.206 BA)
BCG - 0 for 1, K (.320 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lpdddz


Players of the day - The Loons

Ethan Martin and Nathan Eovaldi combined for 10 strikeouts and only 1 earned run today. The dynamic duo has impressed all year but gotten better as the season rolled on. Martin's post AS break ERA is 3. Eovaldi's post AS break ERA is 2. Cole St Clair hasn't allowed a run since July. Kyle Russell is a 20/20 player with his 3 stolen bases today. Jerry Sands salvages his trip back to Great Lakes with a 7 for 13 September. Alfredo Silverio batted .290 after the AS break with 9 home runs. And of course, there's league co-MVP and Prospect of the Year Dee Gordon who (I believe) leads the planet with 73 stolen bases. Not quite the 2005 Jacksonville Suns, but a great collection of talent.

Minor League Recap - 9/05/09

Albuquerque won 8-3

Tony Abreu - 1 for 4, 2 RBI, R, BB, K (.354 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 2 for 5, 2B, 3B, RBI, 2 R, K (.255 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 1, K (.000 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 3 for 5, 2B, RBI, R, SB (.299 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/n9ekgl


Chattanooga lost 5-4

Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 4, BB, 2 K's, SB (.220 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.254 BA)

James Adkins - 6 IP, 6 Hits, 4 ER, 3 BB, 4 K's (4.48 ERA)
Javy Guerra - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (3.33 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nwwg5r


Inland Empire won 11-8

Steven Caseres - 3 for 5, 3 2B's, 2 RBI, R, K (.265 BA)
Jaime Ortiz - 2 for 5, 2 HR (5), 5 RBI, 2 R, 2 K's (.249 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 5 for 5, 3 2B's, R, CS (.235 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ksxpjb


Great Lakes won 9-2

Dee Gordon - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, 2 R, 2 K's (.301 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 4, 3B, 2 RBI, R, K, OF Assist (.270 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 3 for 4, 2 2B's, RBI, 2 R (.282 BA)
Jerry Sands - 2 for 2, RBI, R, 2 BB (.245 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mebpxv


Ogden won 9-8

BCG - 0 for 5, RBI, R, K, SB (.321 BA)
Clay Calfee - 3 for 5, 2B, RBI, R, K (.373 BA)
Kyle Orr - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI, K (.214 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 5, RBI (.204 BA)

Javier Solano - 2 IP, 3 Hits, 2 ER, 0 BB, 2 K's (4.31 ERA)
Steven Ames - 0.2 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (1.91 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lm48sk


Players of the day - The 66ers' offense

After losing Trayvon Robinson last month, the 66ers were dealt a blow when Scott Van Slyke was promoted to Triple A. But the bats responded with aplomb, accounting for 11 extra basehits (and 18 total) leading to 11 runs. I don't recall ever seeing 2 separate players collecting 3 doubles in a game before, so that's a notable achievement. And Jaime Ortiz nearly doubled his home run total for the season in one night. The season's almost over for the Empire and they're fighting their way out of the cellar, so let's hope they can at least finish on a high note.

Minor League Recap - 9/04/09

Albuquerque won 5-1

Xavier Paul - 0 for 4, R, BB, K (.336 BA)
Tony Abreu - 3 for 5, 2B, HR (11), 2 RBI, 2 R, K (.356 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 5, K (.253 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lu4v2f


Chattanooga lost 7-2

Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, K (.256 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 1 (.239 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ng3ghs


Inland Empire won 6-5

Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 3, R, BB (.294 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, K (.227 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ktdycs


Great Lakes lost 1-0

Dee Gordon - 0 for 4, 2 K's, SB (.300 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 4, 4 K's (.271 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 4, 2 K's, CS (.278 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 3, K (.229 BA)

Geison Aguasviva - 2 IP, Hit, R (0 ER), BB, 2 K's (1.58 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mrfz2j


Ogden lost 5-4

BCG - 2 for 4, 2 HR (17), 2 RBI, 2 R, HBP (.326 BA)
Angelo Songco - 0 for 4 (.309 BA)
JT Wise - 2 for 4, 2B (.333 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 4, R (.259 BA)
Tae Hyeok-Nam - 1 for 4, RBI, R, 3 K's (.250 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/l9q9y5


Player of the day - Brian Cavazos-Galvez, OF

It figures that, on the day BA.com releases an article about him, BCG come up with a multi-homer game. That gives him 17 on the year, which is tops in the Pioneer league. The lack of walks still concerns me, but you can't ignore these numbers.

The BA.com is available for subscribers here: http://bit.ly/2aItBH

Minor League Recap - 9/03/09

Albuquerque won 5-4

Xavier Paul - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's, OF Assist (.350 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 2, 2 R, BB, HBP (.257 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 3 for 4, R (.296 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nnk3nv


Chattanooga lost 9-5

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, 3B, 2 RBI, BB, 2 K's (.244 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 4 (.256 BA)
Lucas May - 2 for 4, 2B, R, K, E (.306 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nmk9gy


Inland Empire lost 3-0

Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 2, 2 BB, K (.296 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 2, BB, K (.261 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 3, K (.229 BA)

Kenley Jansen - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, 3 K's (4.22 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/m2xn66


Great Lakes won 8-4

Dee Gordon - 1 for 5, R (.302 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 3, RBI, BB (.273 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 2 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 R, BB, K (.278 BA)
Jerry Sands - 2 for 3, 2B, RBI, R, BB, K (.226 BA)

Roberto Feliciano - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 2 BB, K (0.00 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 1 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K's (2.55 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nol6b6


Ogden lost 7-2

BCG - 1 for 4, K, SB (.324 BA)
Angelo Songco - 1 for 4, HR (9), RBI, R (.319 BA)
JT Wise - 2 for 3, 2B, RBI, K (.328 BA)
Nick Akins - 0 for 3, 2 K's, HBP (.259 BA)

Garrett Gould - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K's (0.00 ERA)
Ji Mo Lee - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, 0 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mwk2ql


Player of the day - Garrett Gould, RHP

Great to see Gould getting some action in before Instructional league. He'll have at least one more chance to make an appearance, since Ogden won the division in the first half and thus qualified for the playoffs. This year's 2nd rounder combines a low 90s fastball with a plus curve. He could end up being the best Dodgers' prospect from this year's class.

Minor League Recap - 9/02/09

Albuquerque lost 4-2

Xavier Paul - 3 for 3, OF Assist (.360 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.292 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 4, K (.258 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 4 K's (2.61 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/no63cn


Chattanooga did not play


Inland Empire lost 10-4

Scott Van Slyke - 2 for 4, HR (23), 2 RBI, 2 R, 2 K's (.297 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 3, 2 K's, HBP (.262 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, 2 K's, CS (.230 BA)

Justin Miller - 5.1 IP, 7 Hits, 5 ER, 2 BB, K (7.42 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nt3dda


Great Lakes lost 5-4

Dee Gordon - 1 for 4, R, BB, 2 SB (.303 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 2, 2B, 2 RBI, 3 BB, K, E (.275 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 2, RBI, BB, K (.211 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 2 for 4 (.276 BA)

Aaron Miller - 3 IP, 7 Hits, 2 ER, 2 BB, 4 K's (2.08 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nnwnou


Ogden won 7-1

BCG - 1 for 4, HR (15), 3 RBI, R (.325 BA)
Angelo Songco - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.322 BA)
Clay Calfee - 1 for 3, 2B, 2 R, BB, 2 K's (.372 BA)
JT Wise - 3 for 4, HR (6), 2 RBI, R (.320 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 3, RBI (.269 BA)

Allen Webster - 6 IP, 5 Hits, R (0 ER), BB, 4 K's (0.96 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/makmop


Player of the day - Allen Webster, RHP

Allen Webster has been the biggest surprise in the Dodgers' system this season. A relatively unknown 18th round pick out of a North Carolina last year, Webster showed potential to miss bats but also spent a lot of time missing the strike zone altogether. Allen's weakness seems to have become a strength; after walking 17 batters in 18.1 innings in 2008, he's walked just 16 in 66.1 innings this year, including only 2 free passes in Ogden. He's also struck out more than a batter an inning, induced 1.75 groundballs for every flyout and allowed 0 home runs. He should join a very promising Great Lakes rotation next spring.

Minor League Recap - 9/01/09

Albuquerque lost 12-7

Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 4, 2 K's (.295 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 2 for 5, RBI, R, K (.258 BA)
Xavier Paul - 0 for 1 (.340 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/l8wvcj


Chattanooga won 2-0

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, RBI, K, OF Assist (.244 BA)
Andrew Lambo -2 for 3, R, SB (.258 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 2, BB, K (.303 BA)

Chris Withrow - 5 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 3 BB, 8 K's (3.95 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nsxk9b


Inland Empire lost 7-5

Scott Van Slyke - 3 for 5, 2 RBI, R, K (.296 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, RBI, 2 K's (.233 BA)

Hiroki Kuroda - 5 IP, 5 Hits, R (0 ER), BB, 5 K's (3.29 ERA)
Tim Sexton - 4 IP, 7 Hits, 6 ER, 2 BB, 5 K's (3.76 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kr4sxc


Great Lakes did not play


Ogden won 6-5

BCG - 0 for 6 (.326 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 6, R, 2 K's (.333 BA)
Clay Calfee - 3 for 6, 2B, HR (2), 2 RBI, R, K (.375 BA)
JT Wise - 2 for 6, 2B, R, K (.305 BA)
Nick Akins - 2 for 4, 2B, HR (3), 2 RBI, 2 R, 2 BB (.267 BA)

Brett Wallach - 3.2 IP, 3 Hits, ER, BB, 7 K's (4.50 ERA)
Javier Solano - 3 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 2 BB, K (3.99 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n6w8ou


Player of the day - Chris Withrow, RHP

This was Withrow's most impressive Double A outing yet. The precocious 20 year old has actually lowered his ERA while pitching against competition that averages 4 years older than him. Chris' biggest problem is his control, but not against righties; he's only surrendered a total of 17 in over 50 innings against them. Once he can improve his command against lefties, Withrow will be ready for the big leagues.