Think Blue

In case you were wondering

2010-04-27T19:52:00.000-07:00

I haven't been posting here because I've joined a new website: LADodgerTalk.com. I post game recaps everyday and have started doing a weekly article on Dodger prospects. Come check it out!

Chattanooga, Great Lakes rosters out

2010-04-04T17:07:00.000-07:00

Happy holidays, folks! Great Lakes and Chattanooga have released their rosters and there are some surprises.

Chattanooga Lookouts

-The big surprise for me here is SS Dee Gordon jumping past High A Inland Empire and heading straight to Double A. Given how raw he still is, this is a controversial move that could pay big dividends or have LA officials kicking themselves. I really hope Flash Jr succeeds.

-The rotation is headlined by RHPs Chris Withrow and Tim Sexton. Withrow, who resurrected his career in 2009, made 6 starts with the Lookouts after a late season promotion. After getting pounded in his debut, Chris allowed just 6 earned runs in his last 5 appearances. Sexton's season went the other way. He dominated the Cal league most of the year but suffered down the stretch. While Sexton attempts to regain last season's early dominance, Withrow hopes to continue striding toward the major leagues.

-A few familiar faces return to the bullpen in RHPs Javy Guerra and Matthew Sartor. After moving to the pen, Guerra was extremely successful in High A last year, posting a 1.54 ERA with 55 strikeouts in 41 innings. After a promotion to Chattanooga, Javy struggled a bit but continued striking out batters at an impressive clip. Sartor's season wasn't as successful, though he posted solid peripherals and was named a mid-season All Star. They give the Lookouts two solid options to close out games this season.

-While Gordon spearheads the offense, the outfield is chock full of prospects. LF Andrew Lambo is joined by CF Trayvon Robinson and RF Scott Van Slyke. This will be the third year in which Lambo appears in Double A. He came up briefly in 2008 and had some success, though 2009 wasn't as beneficial. Still just 21, Andrew looks to improve on last season and make a case for a spot on the big club in 2011. Robinson and Van Slyke both broke out in the Inland Empire last year. With only 12 home runs in his pro career that began in 2005, Tray clubbed 17 longballs in 2009 and added 47 stolen bases to establish himself as one of the minors' most exciting prospects. Van Slyke, son of Andy, crushed 23 home runs and added 42 doubles with the 66ers. The trio will give Lookouts and Dodgers fans alike much to cheer about this season.

Great Lakes

-While the Loons don't have the same star power as they had in 2009, there's plenty of prospects to watch. My two favorite players on the squad are OF/1B Jerry Sands and RHP Allen Webster. Both were late round picks in 2008 who had big 2009 campaigns. Sands, a 25th round pick out of Catawba College, started the year with the Loons but went 2 for 17 with 7 K's and was demoted to rookie ball. When in Ogden, Sands exploded, hitting .350 with 14 HR in 41 games. After being recalled to Great Lakes, Jerry hit 5 HR and raised his Low A OPS to an impressive .870. If he keeps showing that type of patience and power, he'll fly thru the minors. Webster, a converted shortstop, was understandably raw in his debut, walking 17 batters in 18.1 innings. In 2009, after working on his mechanics, Allen dominated in two of the most hitter friendly leagues in the minors. Overall, he posted a 2.36 ERA with 77 strikeouts against just 18 walks in 68.2 innings. Webster has the potential for 3 plus pitches, but he still has some developing to do. He's another guy who, despite his rawness, could move pretty quickly.

-A number of 2009 draft picks will make their full season debuts with Great Lakes. OF Brian Cavazos-Galvez is coming off of an MVP performance in Ogden, while OF Blake Smith struggled in his debut. RHP Brett Wallach, son of former player and current Albuquerque manager Tim, struggled with command but struck out more than a batter an inning with the Raptors. C JT Wise hit .338 with 8 HR in 39 games with Ogden.

More notes coming once the other two rosters are posted.

Season Preview - Russell Martin

2010-03-03T23:24:00.001-08:00

Since Spring Training is about to begin, I thought I might look ahead to what Dodger fans can expect out of the 2010 season. I figured I'd start with the backstop, since his career hasn't shaped up to what fans have expected.

Review

Russell Martin has seen his production at the plate dwindle over the past 3 seasons. In 2007, Martin was an all star, a gold glover and a silver slugger. He collected 19 home runs, stole 21 bases (a single season record for a Dodger catcher), and posted an .843 OPS. It seemed like Russ had a very bright career ahead of him, having achieved such accolades at the ripe old age of 24.

Unfortunately, it hasn't been all beer and skittles for number 55. His HR totals have dropped each of the past 2 years, and his OPS has plummeted, dipping below .700 in 2009.

Looking at his batted ball data, Russell has continually posted heavy groundball ratios. Nearly half his balls in play are on the ground. And his HR/FB (home runs per flyball) have dropped from 12.2% in 2007 to just 5.4% in 2009. Now, luck has something to do with his decline, as his BABIP has dropped each of the past 3 years, but I think the main area of concern is his decline in production on fastballs. Bear with me, as the following delves into the sabermetric study of converting batted balls into runs.

In 2007, per every 100 fastballs Martin saw, he produced 1.69 runs above average, placing him 27th in the league (of qualified batters). In 2009, his number was -0.07, which was 135th. More simply, Russell has gone from a very good fastball hitter to a very bad fastball hitter.

What to Expect

It's not all doom and gloom for Martin, who did suffer from some bad luck in 2009. His BABIP was just .284, in spite of a 20.5% line drive rate and heavy groundball tendencies. According to Hit F/X, he was one of the unluckiest batters in the month of April. So his performance should pick up simply by regressing, or in his case progressing, to the mean.

Still, I think his approach to these offensive downfalls is backwards. Instead of relying on his strengths (getting on base and spraying line drives), he's gained 20 pounds since last season and, presumably, believes he'll be a better power hitter this year. The sooner he realizes he's a natural #2 hitter and not a #4 hitter, the better.

Check out this sports discussion forum

2010-02-12T22:57:00.000-08:00

Lots of topics, active users, loaded with information.

http://www.cappingthegame.com/

Compounding the Carroll mistake

2010-01-26T14:46:00.001-08:00

It's been a while but I'm back. Sad to say that I've become somewhat disillusioned by the whole divorce drama and payroll debate. However, the Dodgers made a move today that proves my thesis on Colletti's inability to properly evaluate talent.

Belliard back for a second stint

No, you're not reading that wrong. The Dodgers have re-signed Ronnie Belliard to a 1 year, $825,000 (plus incentives) contract. This, coming weeks after the Dodgers spent half the money the saved sending Juan Pierre to Chicago on soon-to-be 36 year old Jamey Carroll. So the question is: why was Belliard re-signed? Was it the hair? His relationship with other players? Or does Colletti think that having a backup shortstop on the roster isn't really that important?

Belliard has played a grand total of 10 games at short in his major league career. The aforementioned Carroll has played 89, though he hasn't spent an inning there since 2007. The rest of the bench seems to be set with Ausmus and Mientktewicz also returning and either Jason Repko or Xavier Paul replacing Pierre as the 4th outfielder. Unless the Dodgers send Blake DeWitt back to the minors, there's no room for a backup shortstop.

And what's the difference between Belliard and Carroll? Well, their style of play is different. Carroll is defense-oriented and Belliard is a better hitter, but overall their production has been very similar over the past few years. They've each provided their teams with 3.0 WAR (Wins Above Replacement) since 2008. They're about the same age. They play the same positions. But, while Ronnie is signed for one year and around a million dollars, Jamey is signed for twice as long and twice as much per season.

I guess the real question is: will Carroll be twice as good?

Dodgers sign Jamey Carroll

2009-12-16T17:02:00.000-08:00

The Dodgers have signed utilityman Jamey Carroll to a 2 year deal worth $4 million, according to ESPN. Carroll, who will be 36 in February, batted .276 in 93 games for the Indians last season.

I don't really understand this signing from a financial standpoint. If Carroll is replacing Mark Loretta, then why pay him twice as much to do the same thing? Why not give an NRI a shot or let a minor leaguer like Chin Lung Hu take the utility infielder role for a fraction of the cost?

Only a day after the Dodgers save millions by shipping Pierre's contract to the White Sox, they throw $4 million away on a bench player.

Arbitration deadline passes, Dodgers offer to none

2009-12-01T13:43:00.000-08:00

Team Spokeman Josh Rawitch tells Dylan Hernandez of the LA Times that the team will offer none of its departing free agents salary arbitration.

The Dodgers have 7 free agents who were ranked by Elias as either Type A or Type B. They would have received compensation for any of them who were offered arbitration, declined and signed with another team. Randy Wolf and Orlando Hudson would have yielded a 1st/2nd rounder and a Supplemental 1st rounder under that scenario.

This is just unbelievable. I don't recall a team ever having so many free agents and offering none arbitration. An act of this nature indicates a complete unwillingness by management to even consider adding payroll, regardless of how unlikely it would be that any would actually come back. Wolf is primed to get a multi-year deal, something the Dodgers seem disinterested in pursuing. Hudson, who was benched last year for Ronnie Belliard, looked like he didn't even want to return. But it seems that saving money at any cost trumps pragmatism and actually improving the organization.

I can understand not offering the Type B free agents arbitration, since they likely would have accepted and commanded at least 80% of their previous year's salary. However, not taking a chance on either Wolf or Hudson signing with another team demonstrates a lack of interest in improving the organization without complete assurance that payroll obligations will not be incurred. This is no way to run a professional sports franchise.

Offseason Plans - Part 3

2009-11-24T01:53:00.000-08:00

We've covered the hitters. Let's take a look at the pitching staff.

Starter - Clayton Kershaw

I've been a member of the Clayton Kershaw Marching and Chowder Society since the spring of 2006. I squealed like a little girl when the Dodgers drafted him. I got chills when he made his first major league start. And in 2009, he justified all of my giddy optimism.

Not only was Clay the Dodgers' best starter, he was one of the best pitchers in the major leagues. He finished 8th in MLB in both ERA and FIP (Fielding Independent Pitching). He was 7th in K/9, 2nd in HR/9 and first in opponents batting average. And to accomplish all of this at the ripe old age of 21 makes a spectacular season even more impressive. The Dodgers did a good job of limiting his innings and holding him to strict pitch counts. In 2010, they should be able to give him a little more leeway. He'll need to make sure his tempo doesn't get out of whack, causing him to accelerate his lower body which leads to him struggling to catch up with his arm and results in erratic command. It'll be fun to watch Mr Kershaw mature even further next year.

Starter - Chad Billingsley

Billingsley's name has come up a number of times as a potential trade candidate, which I'll address later. His 2009 campaign is widely viewed as a catastrophic failure, though I'm not so ready to give up on him.

Over the first 3 months of the season, Chad was one of the best starters in the National League. However, during that time, he made over 110 pitches in 10 of his 17 starts. In 5 July starts, he allowed a 7.52 ERA and had one of his shortest outings of the year, a 1.2 inning disaster in which he allowed 6 earned runs on 9 hits against the Astros. Then in early August, he came up with what Dodgers' trainers called a hamstring cramp that caused him to miss a start. He actually pitched better in August than July, but struggled more in September with another 1.2 inning appearance. His ERA ballooned from 3.13 through June to 4.03 to end the season.

To me, this says he was overworked in the first half and flattened out in the second. It could have had something to do with the fact that he broke his leg in the offseason and didn't get in his usual conditioning work before Spring Training. His problem could have been mechanical, since his stuff was consistent throughout the year. His command was inconsistent, which is the norm for Billingsley. Regardless of the cause of his second half swoon, he's still just 25 years old and entering his first year of arbitration eligibility. I'm not willing to write him off as a bust.

Starter - Hiroki Kuroda

The former NPB standout is entering the final year of his contract with the Dodgers, and while his season ended on a forgettable note, Kuroda is likely to be a major ingredient to the Dodgers' success (or failure) in 2010.

Hiroki couldn't catch a break in 2009. After his first start of the season, he strained an oblique and missed the entire month of May. He struggled through the next 2 months, posting ERA's of 4.10 and 5.46 in June and July. Just as Kuroda was starting to turn things around, he was drilled in the cranium by a comeback line drive which landed him back on the disabled list with a concussion. After missing another 3 weeks, he was back on the mound and pitched well in September outside of a hard luck loss in his last game of the regular season. Then came the playoffs. He was left off the NLDS roster, but given a start in the eventual deciding game of the NLCS. Having not pitched in a game in 3 weeks, Hiroki was understandably rusty and lasted only 1.1 innings before leaving the game with a 6 run deficit.

Health will be a huge factor for Kuroda in 2010. He's not getting any younger, as he'll turn 35 in February, so even the greatest optimists will have to pray extra hard for him to amass 30 starts. The Dodgers are already thin at starting pitcher, so if he goes down, they'll be hard-pressed to find a suitable replacement. Guys like Josh Lindblom and Chris Withrow, while considered top prospects, likely wouldn't be able to step right in and contribute just yet. Don't be surprised to see an NRI either make the OD roster and wait in the wings in Albuquerque for an eventual, inevitable callup.

Reliever - Jonathan Broxton

Ah, the pariah. And I'll admit, I was cursing his name after Game 4. Nevertheless, he's just a 25 year old kid who made a bad pitch. And had he thrown more than 2 sliders in that appearance, I have the feeling Dodger fans would be singing a very different tune right about now.

It all starts with the fastball for Jon, which was the 3rd fastest pitch in the majors. But his slider made him nearly unhittable. He turned it into a devastating pitch down and in on lefties (which would have been a great place to throw it to Rollins, dammit). That led to his amazing 13.5 K/9 rate, his 2.61 ERA and 36 saves. He was absolutely the best reliever in the majors last year and that shouldn't be forgotten by the Dodger faithful.

The Bull is entering his second year of arbitration eligibility and is due a fairly significant raise. He made $1.825 million last season and I wouldn't be surprised to see his 2010 salary approach $5 million. Regardless of how you may feel about Game 4, he's the Dodgers' closer for now.

Reliever - George Sherrill

Acquired for third base prospect Josh Bell and pitching prospect Steven Johnson, Sherrill was originally seen as an emergency replacement at closer if Broxton faltered. However, The Bull finished the season strong and George did a great job of setting him up.

After being dealt to the Oreos in the Erik Bedard deal, Sherrill settled in as Baltimore's closer to begin the 2008 season. He compiled 31 saves, posted a 4.73 ERA and struck out 58 batters in 53.1 innings. In 2009, he was even better, lowering his ERA by more than 2 runs while lowering his walks and home runs allowed totals. Seeking some depth in the pen, Colletti pulled the trigger, bringing the 32 year old southpaw to the west coast. His time with the Dodgers during the regular season was remarkable. In 27.2 innings, he allowed just 2 earned runs, yielding a 0.65 ERA. After pitching in the AL East, he made the NL West look like A ball. He struggled a bit in the playoffs, but should be a part of yet another impressive relief corps in 2010.

Reliever - Hong Chih Kuo

No, I couldn't find a picture of the bat flip. The bionic Taiwaniac (that's a word, right?) established himself as a dominant bullpen arm in 2008, throwing a career high 80 innings and posting a career low 2.14 ERA. Coming into the season, big things were expected of the 27 year old.

But his season nearly ended before it really began. He made 7 appearances in April, struggling through the last 4, before being shutdown with elbow problems. After undergoing his 4th left elbow operation (no, that's not a typo), Kuo seriously considered retirement if faced with another serious injury that required going under the knife. But he was lucky enough to rehab back to full strength and rejoin the club in late July. He pitched well, posting an ERA of 3 and gave the Dodgers yet another valuable arm in the pen.

The future is uncertain for Hong Chih Kuofax (TM). He has all the talent in the world, a rare lefty who can get righties out, but that oft-repaired elbow could blow at any moment. We'll just hope for the best and not think about the worst.

Reliever - Ramon Troncoso

The flamboyant Dominican was better than his 4.26 ERA would suggest in 2008. He struck out a batter an inning, walked only 12 in 38 innings and allowed just 2 home runs. So it was not a huge surprise that he played a very important role in last season's clean-up crew.

Armed with a nasty 92mph sinker, the 26 year old induced 1.31 groundballs per flyball in 2009. His ERA was 2.72 and he surrendered just 3 longballs while leading Dodger relievers with 82.2 innings pitched. He doesn't have the gaudy strikeout numbers that you'd expect, but he's a very solid middle reliever who will continue to develop into a potential setup man.

Reliever - Ronald Belisario

Big ups to the Dodgers' scouting department. A 4.74 ERA from a 25 year old in Double A wouldn't create much buzz among fans and organization personnel alike, but LA saw something the liked and invited Ronnie to spring training. He showed some wicked stuff, including a a 95mph fastball with movement and that earned him a spot on the Opening Day roster.

It wasn't all beer and skittles for Belisario, who missed most of July with a strained elbow and plead guilty to a drunk driving charge. But he came back with a bang, posting a 1.21 ERA after the All Star Break. A few bad outings in the playoffs can't tarnish a fantastic rookie season, and he'll be Dodger property for another 5 years unless they trade or non-tender him.

Reliever - James McDonald

Big things were expected of McDonald this year, as he entered the season as the Dodgers' best pitching prospect. And after a successful spring, he opened 2009 in LA's rotation. Though, while he didn't stick there, he found his niche in relief, pitching better than many expected in the role.

Displaying pinpoint command in the minors was supposed to translate to the majors, in theory. Then again, in theory, communism works. In theory. But it took 13.1 innings and 14 walks to convince Joe Torre and the rest of the Dodgers' brass that J Mac wasn't quite ready for a starting gig in the bigs. Some soul-searching in Albuquerque ended his second stint as a major leaguer in mid May, but not for long. He returned to the Dodgers in late June and did very well, posting an ERA of 2.72 coming out of the pen. He's still just 25, so there's a chance that he could get another shot at starting, especially given the Dodgers' need for arms.

Now, onto the fun part. In the 4th and last installment of my Offseason series, I'll look at what moves I think the Dodgers should (and will) make.

Offseason Plans - Part 2, First Blood

2009-11-20T00:16:00.000-08:00

Now it's time to look at the left side of the infield and the outfield. Unfortunately, there's not a whole lot in question here so I'll look more to the future.

Shortstop - Rafael Furcal

The former Brave is entering his 5th season as the Dodgers' starting shortstop. It's been a tumultuous tenure for the diminutive Dominican, as he started his Dodger career with a bang but has disappointed since with ailments and sub-par performance.

Coming off an injury-plagued 2008, Furcal appeared in 150 contests this past season. And while his defense was among the best in the National League (in spite of his 20 errors), Rafael again struggled to hit. His platoon-splits were favorable against lefties, as he OPS'd .815 against southpaws, but he struggled to hit versus righties, compiling a .261/.326/.352 line while batting left-handed. Once a base-stealing threat, he averaged only a pair of swipes per month, the cost of doing business with a player on the wrong side of 30.

Raffy's job is safe for the next 2 years, as his salary dictates his role. Waiting in the wings, however, is an exciting young player by the name of Dee Gordon. If you're a regular reader of this blog, and who is, you'll recognize him as the son of Tom "Flash" Gordon and MVP of the Midwest League. Flash Jr offers an exciting blend of blazing speed and pure athleticism, allowing him to make all the plays at short and stretch doubles into triples on the basepaths. However, he's still raw and will require a few more years in the minors to develop. His path to the majors coincides nicely with Furcal's contract status, so expect Dee to take over in 2012.

Third Base - Casey Blake

Now, I have nothing against the guy personally. I don't know him, never met him, haven't read anything about about him. So while my constant bashing of the trade that brought him here may seem like I have a vendetta against the guy, it's purely analytical and has nothing to do with the player lovingly referred to as "the beard." And with all my criticism, I'm man enough to acknowledge that Casey had a solid season, exceeding my relatively bleak expectations.

The biggest surprise for me was Blake's defense. Over his last 2 seasons, he was about 5 runs below league average. In 2009, he was 8 runs above league average. That's a difference of about 1 win, which is a huge turnaround especially given his age. Offensively, Casey also improved over his previous season, thanks in large part to a couple great months. Another oddity was his walk rate, which jumped to 11.5%, his highest mark in a full season's work. Maybe he's found the fountain of youth.

After Josh Bell was traded to Baltimore, the Dodgers lack of corner infield depth in the farm system was exposed. Blake DeWitt is likely to win the starting second base job in spring training. That leaves Pedro Baez with the mantle of "Top Third Base Prospect." The 2009 Futures Game participant has a power arm/power bat combination that entices scouts, but he's still raw offensively as evidenced by his 84 strikeouts compared to just 16 walks in 79 games. He probably didn't belong in High A last season, so I don't see the Dodgers having a problem repeating him at the level in 2010.

The Outfield - Manny Ramirez, Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier

The Dodgers have the best outfield in the majors. Last season, Ramirez had the fewest HR of the trio (19) mainly because he missed 50 games due to his hormone treatment. Given a full, erectile dysfunction free season in 2010, it would be easy to imagine all 3 hitting 25+ HR. Unfortunately, while Kemp made strides in center, Ramirez and Ethier have the defensive aptitude of beached whales. Still, the unit is the envy of the major leagues and the younger two are under Dodger control through (at least) 2011.

Given the fact that the Dodgers' outfield situation for 2010 is set, it may be fun to look at the future of the club.

Andrew Lambo - Had a subpar showing in his return to Double A, putting up a line of .256/.311/.407. Adjusting for luck, his numbers take a jump in the right direction, increasing his OPS to nearly .800. He also has had a solid showing in the AFL, batting .330 with with 6 doubles and a pair of home runs. He'll participate in the league's championship game tomorrow. This performance may have earned Andrew a promotion to Triple A next season.

Trayvon Robinson - A 10th round pick in 2005, Tray has always had the tools but they haven't translated into production...until this year. Now, granted, he was playing in the hitter's haven known as the California League, but his peripherals and power numbers took a huge step forward. Coming into the year with 12 career home runs, Robinson smacked 15 long balls in High A and added 2 more after a brief promotion to Double A. He also stole 47 bases and OPS'd .866 overall. Joining Lambo in the AFL, Tray didn't have as much success nor as consistent playing time. However, while he batted just .244, he drew 7 walks in 12 games and stole 7 bases. He'll likely head to Double A next year.

Scott Van Slyke - The son of former Pirates slugger Andy was taken 4 selections after Robinson. He's followed a similar career path and, like Tray, broke out this year with High A Inland Empire. Whereas Robinson is a shorter, more compact athlete, Van Slyke is a big, hulking power hitter. At 6'5 and over 200 lbs, he finally tapped into his raw power potential in 2009. Coming into the season, Scott only had 40 doubles and 11 HR. He more than doubled each of those categories as he ended the season with 42 doubles and 23 HR. He also improved his walk rate, drawing a free pass in more than 10% of his plate appearances. He'll surely join Tray in Chattanooga in 2010.

Kyle Russell - Russell, to me, is the most interesting of the four prospects. He enjoyed a good amount of success this year, leading the Midwest League in home runs (26) and tied for 2nd in doubles (39). He was also the only Dodger farmhand to hit at least 20 home runs and steal at least 20 bases. The downside is that he also led the league with 180 strikeouts. There are serious questions as to whether Russell will make enough contact in the majors. One major part of Russell's game that tends to be overlooked is his defense. Minorleaguesplits.com estimates that he saved the team 17 runs in the first half of the season. His defensive value alone may warrant a major league role, but he'll have to prove he can hit advanced pitching in order to earn the spot. I think, given his age (he'll be 24 in June), he'll need to start next season at Double A. He, Tray and Scott should provide a very talented and entertaining unit for the Lookouts.

Stay tuned for Part 3, when I look at the pitching staff and some possible additions to the rotation.

Offseason Plans - Part 1

2009-11-14T00:44:00.000-08:00

I know I'm getting into this a little late, but I thought it would be fun to take a look at the Dodgers, position by position, and try to figure out what they have and where, or how, they could improve. I thought about doing one big, long post but I figured it would be less time consuming and easier to read if I only did a few positions at a time. So, without further ado, I bring you my plans for the Dodgers' 2009-2010 offseason.

Catcher - Russell Martin

Russell is coming off of a rough year, in which he batted just .250 with a mere 26 extra basehits. And while the power did start to come around after the all star break (5 of his 7 home runs were hit after the mid-summer classic), his OPS actually dropped from .687 to .670 due to a significant drop in walks.

A deeper look at his numbers implies some bad luck may have had an effect on his production. Martin's BABIP (Batting Average on Balls In Play) was .285, .017 points lower than league average. Add to that the fact that he hit line drives 20.5% of the time and you have a player who's making good contact but not reaching base. His walk rate was strong at 12% and he still has good speed, so Russell's numbers should improve as his luck regresses to the mean. His power numbers have decreased over the past 3 seasons, but even if he doesn't hit .300 with 20 home runs, the Dodgers' lineup is deep enough to compensate for his offensive shortcomings. Martin did post a career high in Fielding Percentage and a career low in passed balls, while throwing out more than 30% of attempted basestealers, so he's shown he still has plenty of defensive value.

Now, it appears as though Brad Ausmus is ready to hang up his chest protector and call it a career. I'd personally like to see the Dodgers offer him a coaching job in the minor leagues, possibly grooming him for a future managerial stint in LA. To fill his vacancy on the roster, I'd like to see AJ Ellis get the nod (although there are rumors of him being dealt to Kansas City for infielder Alberto Callaspo). If Ellis is gone, the Dodgers could find a cheap alternative on the market such as Mike Redmond or Brian Schneider.

First Base - James Loney

Loney's season was similar to Martin's, in that he was saved from utter disaster by a strong walk rate. In fact, James accomplished the impressive feat of drawing more walks than strikeouts. And he did manage to show up in the playoffs, batting .310 with a pair of home runs in the Dodgers 8 post-season appearances. But it wasn't enough to hide his glaring lack of power during the regular season, as J Lo accounted for a measly 40 extra basehits in 652 plate appearances.

Again, as was the case with Martin, Loney appears to have been the victim of some bad luck. His line drive percentage was 22.3, which is above league average, but his BABIP was a pedestrian .301. So assuming that his numbers will improve simply by the cosmos re-aligning in his favor isn't completely out of the question. Defensively, James showed his usual proclivity for digging bad throws and a little range to boot. All in all, the Dodgers can afford to continue letting him progress at first.

It looks like backups Mark Loretta, Doug Mientkiewicz and Jim Thome will be either finding a new homestead or riding off into the sunset, so a backup will be needed. Minor league journeyman Mitch Jones seemed to be a fan favorite, but his Pedro Cerrano-esque aversion to breaking balls would limit him to blowouts and beer league softball games. The free agent market doesn't offer a whole lot, though Eric Hinske would be a fantastic addition to the bench if he doesn't re-sign with the world champs.

Second Base - Player To Be Named Later

Orlando Hudson looks like he'll head out of LA after losing his starting gig late in the season to post trade deadline acquisition and buffet enthusiast Ronnie Belliard. And you can't really blame the guy for wanting to move on, given the fact that he was a gold-glove winning all star this year.

Hudson's season wasn't overwhelmingly successful, as he managed a .774 OPS, which was his lowest mark for him in 4 years. Still, getting benched for the playoffs (and reportedly not hearing from Torre about the decision) is a slap in the face to a player of Orlando's experience and reputation. His defense was below average, though it should surprise no one that Gold Glove awards have far more to do with offense and reputation than actual defensive contributions.

Rumors have been floating in for about a week now regarding the Dodgers' trade interests in middle infielders, from Alberto Callaspo and Luis Castillo to Dan Uggla and Brandon Phillips. Were Callaspo acquired for 4A catcher AJ Ellis, I'd support the deal. But the other 3 would require too much in trade or salary to justify blocking Blake DeWitt. Give the job to the kid and let him keep it warm for Ivan DeJesus.

Stay tuned for Part 2, looking at the left side of the infield and the outfield.

AFL Recap - 10/26/09

2009-10-26T23:19:00.000-07:00

Peoria Javelinas won 2-1

Russell Mitchell - 2 for 3, BB (.412 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, RBI (.400 BA)

Aaron Miller - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, 3 K's (2.08 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/yzlhrc4

Games Notes

Laborious outing for Miller, who made 30 pitches. He struck out Mike Moustakas after an 11 pitch duel to begin the inning and ended it with a 4 pitch punch out. In between were a walk, another strikeout and a single to shortstop on a well-placed changeup. Aaron was up to 92 in the first AB but settled in at 88-90 as the inning wore on. It's a little disappointing to see the velocity down but he's still getting great results.

AFL Recap - 10/23/09

2009-10-23T21:48:00.000-07:00

Peoria Javelinas lost 8-7

Russell Mitchell - 0 for 2, R, 2 BB, K, HBP (.407 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 4, RBI, R (.280 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/yj49fbt

AFL Recap - 10/21/09

2009-10-22T01:27:00.000-07:00

Peoria Javelinas lost 17-4

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 5, 2 K's (.250 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 4, 2B, R, 3 K's (.286 BA)
Russell Mitchell - 3 for 3, 2B, RBI, 2 R (.476 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4 (.444 BA)

Javy Guerra - 0.2 IP, 2 Hits, R (0 ER), BB, 2 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ykmgdb5

Game Notes

Wasn't a good day for the Javelinas, save for Mitchell. He's hit safely in all 6 of his AFL games and was awarded Player of the Week honors on Monday. The 24 year old isn't much of a prospect, but it's nice to see him doing well. Lambo has hit safely in his last 5 and has only struck out twice in nearly 30 plate appearances. Robinson has only played in 3 games in the past week so I'm not thinking much about his numbers. May has exactly 1 hit in each of his 6 games and all but 1 have been of the extra base variety. Guerra had his worst outing thus far, though he's still maintaining a perfect ERA.

AFL Recap - 10/20/09

2009-10-20T23:09:00.001-07:00

Peoria Javelinas won 14-10

Andrew Lambo - 3 for 6, GS (2), 4 RBI, 3 R, K (.478 BA)
Russell Mitchell - 1 for 2, HR (3), 2 RBI, R, BB (.389 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 2, 2B, 2 RBI (.294 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/yj4dtmx

Game Notes

This was Lambo's second grand slam. Mitchell's 3rd HR ties him for the league lead. May collected his 3rd double after replacing Mitchell in the 5th.

AFL Recap - 10/19/09

2009-10-19T22:15:00.000-07:00

Peoria Javelinas won 8-1

Russell Mitchell - 1 for 4, 2B, R, BB, K (.375 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 3, 2B, RBI (.267 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ykc3mwu

Game Notes

Mitchell's double allows him to maintain his 1.000 SLG. May collects his 2nd double. Would be nice to see some more of Trayvon Robinson.

AFL Recap - 10/17/09

2009-10-17T23:21:00.000-07:00

Peoria Javelinas won 9-5

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, RBI, R, BB, K, SB (.286 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI, R, BB, K (.250 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, R, K, HBP (.471 BA)

Travis Schlicthing - 2.2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 3 BB, 4 K's (0.00 ERA)
Javy Guerra - 1.1 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, K (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ykb72no

Games Notes

Schlichting getting the start is a surprise, and he did well. His sinker sat at 89-91 and he threw his changeup a good amount. He showed a few breaking balls but didn't really command the pitch. Overall, a very nice debut for Travis. Guerra's stuff was about the same. 93-95 on the fastball, lots of changeups.

AFL Recap - 10/16/09

2009-10-16T23:45:00.000-07:00

Peoria Javelinas won 13-3

Russell Mitchell - 2 for 5, 2B, HR (2), 4 RBI, 2 R, K (.417 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 4 for 5, 2B, 3B, RBI (.538 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ylc2ak6

Game Notes

After missing the cycle by a triple yesterday, Lambo collected a three-bagger in his first at bat of today's game. Then he doubled in his second AB and singled in his third. He'd have two more shots to complete the feat with a homer but grounded out and singled again to come just shy once more. Andrew now has 7 hits in his last 2 games including 2 doubles, a triple and a grand slam. Russell Mitchell went yard and doubled for the second time in as many days.

AFL Recap - 10/15/09

2009-10-15T21:15:00.000-07:00

Peoria Javelinas won 17-9

Lucas May - 1 for 4, RBI, 2, R, 2 BB, 2 K's, PB (.250 BA)
Russell Mitchell - 2 for 3, 2B, HR (1), 4 RBI, 3 R, 2 BB (.429 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 3 for 5, 2B, GS (1), 4 RBI, R, BB, SB (.375 BA)

Aaron Miller - 2.1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, K, HB (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ygj4q6w

Game Notes

Lambo's granny in the 6th broke the game open for the Javelinas. Aaron Miller came in and was throwing 91-92 to the first handful batters he faced before settling in at 89-90 over the remainder of his appearance. He also mixed in a few sliders and a changeup. As mentioned before, it seems Miller's velocity was down from its reported low to mid 90s during the spring. Hopefully this is simply a matter of him wearing down after pitching so many innings this year. It'll be interesting to see where his velocity is in future games.

AFL Recap - 10/14/09

2009-10-14T22:20:00.000-07:00

Peoria Javelinas lost 6-4

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 3, 3B, RBI, R, 2 BB, 2 K's, 2 SB (.333 BA)

Javy Guerra - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, K (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/yf2hdss

Game Notes

Thanks to Gameday and pitch f/x, viewers can track pitchers' movement and velocity live while watching the game. Guerra was sitting at 93-95mph with his fastball and it appeared to have average/above average movement. His second pitch was his changeup, which sat 82-83mph with similar action to his fastball. He threw the pitch 8 times in his 22 total pitches. The only other pitch I saw was a slider/cutter at 89-90 which he only threw a few times. I'm very anxious to Aaron Miller's velocity once he makes his AFL debut.

AFL Recap - 10/13/09

2009-10-14T00:17:00.000-07:00

Peoria Javelinas lost 17-4

Russell Mitchell - 1 for 4, 2B, R (.250 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 3, R, BB, SB (.000 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 4, HR (1), RBI, R (.250 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/yhzlr3h

Baseball America's Pioneer League Top 20

2009-09-28T16:50:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-18T00:32:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-13T23:16:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-12T23:23:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-11T23:33:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-11T01:26:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-10T02:23:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-08T23:32:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-07T23:18:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-06T21:30:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-05T23:52:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-04T23:49:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-03T22:28:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-02T22:34:00.000-07:00

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

2009-09-01T23:13:00.000-07:00

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.

Minor League Recap - 8/31/09

2009-08-31T22:06:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 6-5

Tony Abreu - 2 for 3, RBI (.351 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 3 for 4, 2B, RBI, R (.295 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 4, K (.256 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 2, R, 2 BB, CS (.284 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (2.75 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/m7ted6

Chattanooga lost 5-4

Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 4, 3B, R, 2 K's, CS (.243 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 2, RBI, R, 2 BB (.256 BA)
Lucas May - 0 for 4 (.301 BA)

Javy Guerra - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (3.46 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nr3pfu

Inland Empire did not play

Great Lakes won 6-4

Dee Gordon - 1 for 4, RBI, R, 2 K's (.303 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI, R, K (.274 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 2, BB (.216 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 3, R, K (.274 BA)

Geison Aguasviva - 3 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, BB, 3 K's (1.63 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 1 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K's (2.62 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lakwsc

Ogden lost 6-4

BCG - 2 for 4, BB, K, E, OF Assist (.333 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 5, 3 K's, PO (.343 BA)
JT Wise - 2 for 4, HR (5), 2 RBI, R, K (.304 BA)

Steven Ames - 2 IP, 2 Hits, 2 ER, BB, 3 K's (1.95 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nsmok6

Player of the day - JT Wise, C

The 2009 5th rounder has enjoyed the cozy confines of the Pioneer league and feasting on left-handed pitching. Wise is batting a staggering .424 against them with a 1.230 OPS. Compare that to his split against righties, which is a somewhat disappointing .253 BA and .706 OPS. This mirrors his performance in college this spring, where he put up an insane 1.529 OPS against southpaws and a far more modest .846 OPS against righties. Hopefully JT can improve upon his same-handed counterparts as he advances through the Dodgers' system.

Minor League Recap - 8/30/09

2009-08-30T23:28:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 8-4

Blake DeWitt - 2 for 4, R, BB, E (.259 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 1 (.291 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 3, R, BB (.286 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nx6udj

Chattanooga won 2-1

Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI, K (.257 BA)
Lucas May - 0 for 1, K (.307 BA)

James Adkins - 5 IP, 4 Hits, 0 R, BB, 4 K's (4.41 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mlt2hx

Inland Empire lost 3-1

Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 3, 2B, R, HBP (.293 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, K (.235 BA)
Steven Caseres - 2 for 4, RBI, E (.262 BA)

Kenley Jansen - 0.2 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, K (5.19 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n9s4rx

Great Lakes won 4-2

Kyle Russell - 0 for 2, 2 BB, 2 K's, SB, PO (.274 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 4, RBI (.274 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 4, HR (5), RBI, R, K (.221 BA)

Cole St Clair - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (2.70 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mucx4n

Ogden won 7-5

Mario Songco - 1 for 5, 2B, R (.350 BA)
Clay Calfee - 2 for 5, RBI, K (.353 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 3, R, BB, K (.254 BA)
Kyle Orr - 1 for 4, 2B, K (.213 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lwmt8b

AZL did not play

Player of the day - James Adkins, LHP

The 23 year old 2007 supplemental first rounder has had an up and down season. He's had major struggles with his command, as evidenced by his 69 walks in 132.2 innings pitched. His strikeout rate isn't much better (5.22 / 9). However, he's shown the ability to consistently keep the ball on the ground, as he's posted a 1.36 ground/fly ratio and allowed just 8 home runs in 25 starts. Adkins' future is still up in the air, though I see him as more of a reliever/LOOGY at this point instead of a back-end starter.

Minor League Recap - 8/29/09

2009-08-29T22:32:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 11-9

Tony Abreu - 1 for 5, 3 K's, 2 E's (.347 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 2 for 4, HR (7), RBI, 2 R, K (.256 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 5, 2 HR (8), 5 RBI, 2 R, 2 K's (.286 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 4 (.290 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/koxf3d

Chattanooga lost 5-4

Andrew Lambo - 0 for 3, R, BB, 2 K's (.257 BA)
Lucas May - 2 for 3, 2B, R, BB (.308 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 1, K, OF Assist (.212 BA)

Javy Guerra - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (3.75 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/meg7yf

Inland Empire won 4-1

Doug Mientkiewicz - 1 for 4, HR (1), 2 RBI, R, 2 K's (.222 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 2, RBI, BB (.292 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.237 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mdsnxl

Great Lakes won 6-0

Dee Gordon - 0 for 3, R, BB, SB, CS, E (.304 BA)
Kyle Russell - 2 for 3, RBI, 2 R, SB, HBP (.275 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 3, K (.220 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 3 (.274 BA)

Nathan Eovaldi - 3 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, 2 K's (3.38 ERA)
Ethan Martin - 3 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, 5 K's (3.90 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lhhber

Ogden won 5-2

BCG - 2 for 4, BB, SB (.332 BA)
Mario Songco - 3 for 5, RBI, R, 2 K's (.358 BA)
Nick Akins - 0 for 4, BB, 2 K's (.250 BA)

Matt Magill - 5 IP, Hit, 2 R (1 ER), 3 BB, 6 K's (3.86 ERA)
Javier Solano - 2 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 4 K's (4.10 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ms8ots

AZL lost 11-9

Ivan DeJesus Jr - 2 for 2, 2B, 3 RBI (.200 BA)
Tae-Hyeok Nam - 0 for 3, K, 2 E's, HBP (.000 BA)
Jan Vazquez - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, R, K (.216 BA)

Travis Schlichting - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (0.00 ERA)
Carlos Frias - 2.1 IP, 5 Hits, 3 R (0 ER), BB, 5 K's (4.28 ERA)
Beyker Fructuoso - 1 IP, Hit, 2 R (1 ER), 0 BB, 2 K's (6.28 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l4o5ps

Players of the day - Great Lakes' pitching staff

It's the third straight 3-hit shutout for Loons' pitchers and they've extended their scoreless innings streak to 31. Eovaldi lowered his ERA to 3.38 and Martin raised his team-leading strikeout total to 114, which is good for 8th in the league. And of course there was JonMichael Redding's 6 innings of one hit ball yesterday, preceded by Aaron Miller's brilliant no-hit bid on Thursday. Great Lakes also clinched a playoff birth with their win, the first in their young history. With their recent dominance on the mound and very potent offense, the Loons look to be the favorites in their effort to take the Midwest league title.

Minor League Recap - 8/28/09

2009-08-28T23:01:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 8-7

Tony Abreu - 0 for 5 (.351 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 3 for 5, 2B, RBI, 2 R, K (.253 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 2, HR (6), 3 RBI, R, BB (.283 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, E (.290 BA)

Scott Elbert - 5 IP, 3 Hits, R (0 ER), 2 BB, 8 K's (3.74 ERA)
Josh Lindblom - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's (2.83 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mtt8h2

Chattanooga won 3-1

Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, 2 RBI, K, SB (.259 BA)
Lucas May - 2 for 4, 2B, 3B, R (.303 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, K (.219 BA)

Victor Garate - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, 0 K's (2.04 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nkqter

Inland Empire won 4-1

Doug Mientkiewicz - 0 for 3, R, BB, K (.200 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 2 for 4, 2B, HR (21), 3 RBI, R, K, SB (.291 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 4, K (.239 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/l6z2xs

Great Lakes won 8-0

Dee Gordon - 0 for 3, R, BB, K (.305 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 2 for 5, 2B, RBI, 2 R, K, CS, PO (.261 BA)
Kyle Russell - 2 for 4, 2 2B's, RBI, BB, K (.273 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 3, 2 RBI, BB (.228 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 R, K (.274 BA)

JonMichael Redding - 6 IP, Hit, 0 R, 2 BB, 4 K's (4.59 ERA)
Roberto Feliciano - 2 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nbb4j7

Ogden won 6-3

BCG - 0 for 5, OF Assist (.329 BA)
Mario Songco - 2 for 3, 2B, HR (8), RBI, 3 R, BB (.344 BA)
Nick Akins - 0 for 3, R, K, HBP (.266 BA)

Allen Webster - 5 IP, 5 Hits, 2 ER, BB, 5 K's (1.42 ERA)
Steven Ames - 2 IP, Hit, ER, 0 BB, 2 K's (1.40 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ktfxlm

AZL did not play

Players of the day - Scott Van Slyke and Mario Songco, OF

Van Slyke keeps slugging, collecting his league best 41st double and 22nd HR. He also collected his 10th stolen base and his 124th strikeout. The whiffs concern me a little and, at 23, Scott still isn't a finished product. We'll see how he does in his real test next year at Double A. Songco, on the other hand, took a step backward after struggling in Low A. He comes back to Ogden as possibly the best hitter in the league, sporting a 1.111 OPS that's just a tick behind former teammate Jerry Sands' league-leading mark. Full season ball might have been a little much for the 20 year old, and he can wait til next year to try it out again.

Minor League Recap - 8/27/09

2009-08-27T22:25:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 11-7

Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 5 (.288 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 2 for 5, R (.248 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 4, R, BB (.282 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nnbmaz

Chattanooga did not play

Inland Empire lost 8-1

Doug Mientkiewicz - 1 for 2, BB, HBP (.500 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 2 for 4, 2B, R (.290 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 4, RBI, K (.259 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 4, SB (.239 BA)

Justin Miller - 6 IP, 10 Hits, 6 ER, 3 BB, 3 K's (7.20 ERA)
Kenley Jansen - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, K (5.63 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nccmjj

Great Lakes won 10-0

Dee Gordon - 2 for 4, 3B, RBI, R, BB (.307 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 1 for 2, HR (14), 2 RBI, R, 2 BB
Kyle Russell - 0 for 3, 2 R, 2 BB, 2 K's, SB (.271 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 3, 2B, R, K, HBP (.224 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 4, 2B, 3 RBI, R (.274 BA)

Aaron Miller - 6 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 5 K's (1.65 ERA)
Geison Aguasviva - 2 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, BB, K (1.72 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K's (2.78 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n4gjdw

Ogden lost 9-8

BCG - 2 for 6, 2B, 3 RBI, R, K (.336 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 5, R, K (.333 BA)
Nick Akins - 3 for 4, 2B, RBI, BB, K (.279 BA)

Brett Wallach - 4 IP, 4 Hits, 3 ER, 0 BB, 9 K's (4.61 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lf2ftp

AZL won 9-1

Ivan DeJesus Jr - 0 for 3, BB, K (.000 BA)
Jan Vazquez - 2 for 4, RBI, R, BB (.200 BA)

Travis Schlichting - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (0.00 ERA)
Danny Danielson - 5 IP, 4 Hits, ER, 2 BB, 4 K's (3.08 ERA)
Greg Miller - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, 0 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n3exu5

Player of the day - Aaron Miller, LHP

Who needs a first round pick when you have Logan White? After struggling through his first two appearances, Miller has been stellar ever since. He's allowed just 1 hit in his last 12 innings pitched and is holding Midwest league batters to a .167 average. He's also striking out 12 batters per 9 during his debut and has walked only 10 batters in 33 innings. The last Dodgers' draft pick to dominate like this in his debut was Clayton Kershaw.

Minor League Recap - 8/26/09

2009-08-26T22:28:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 6-2

Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, 2B, R (.289 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 3, HR (6), RBI, R, BB (.245 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 2 (.282 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lpd6nj

Chattanooga lost 7-3

Lucas May - 2 for 4 (.300 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 2 for 4, R (.259 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 1 (.179 BA)

Chris Withrow - 5 IP, 6 Hits, 2 ER, 0 BB, 5 K's (4.84 ERA)
Javy Guerra - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (3.91 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l4obye

Inland Empire lost 7-6

Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 4, BB, K (.288 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 2 for 4, 2 R, BB (.239 BA)
Steven Caseres - 2 for 3, 2 HR (15), 5 RBI, 2 R, BB (.262 BA)

Tim Sexton - 5 IP, 8 Hits, 7 R (4 ER), 4 BB, 4 K's (3.50 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kro8fd

Great Lakes lost 5-1

Kyle Russell - 1 for 4, 2 K's (.272 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 4, 3 K's (.219 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.274 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/m6uwmr

Ogden lost 7-6

BCG - 1 for 4, HR (14), RBI, R (.336 BA)
Mario Songco - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.341 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 2, R, 2 BB, K (.246 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/kkvsdr

AZL lost 6-5

Ivan DeJesus Jr - 0 for 2, R, 2 K's, HBP (.000 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 1 for 3, 3B, 2 RBI, R (.304 BA)

Bolivar Medina - 4.1 IP, 7 Hits, 6 R (5 ER), BB, 2 K's (2.89 ERA)
Amauri Guzman - 1.2 IP, 4 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (3.38 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l8fe6b

Player of the day - Steven Caseres, 1B

After 2 mediocre months to start the season, Caseres broke out in June with an incredible .418/.512/.806 line. He smashed 6 home runs and walked 14 times in 21 games. But now, it looks like a mirage as Steven has fallen hard back to Earth. His average plummeted to .235 in July and he didn't hit even 1 home run. It's dropped even further in August to .132 and his OPS is a miserable .522. His problem is his complete inability to hit lefties (.141 BA). He's been great against righties, posting a .914 OPS against them. But he'll have to hit southpaws to prove himself more than just a platoon player.

Minor League Recap - 8/25/09

2009-08-25T23:13:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 4-1

Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.287 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 3, BB (.244 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 4 (.285 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 2 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 2 BB, 0 K's (2.91 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nvs7xz

Chattanooga won 7-6

Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 3, R, BB, K (.185 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 1, 2B (.296 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 1 (.257 BA)

Victor Garate - 1 IP, 2 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 0 K's (2.08 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lr3yz5

Inland Empire won 6-3

Scott Van Slyke - 2 for 5, 2B (.290 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 5, R, 2 K's (.236 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/n25x94

Great Lakes won 12-5

Jaime Pedroza - 1 for 4, HR (13), 2 RBI, 2 R, BB (.258 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 4, HR (26), 4 RBI, 2 K's, OF Assist (.273 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 3, BB, E (.232 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 2 for 4, 2 R, K (.276 BA)

Roberto Feliciano - 1 IP, Hit, R (0 ER), BB, 0 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l9nvwn

Ogden lost 8-5

BCG - 2 for 4, BB, K, SB, CS (.337 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 5, RBI, R, K (.359 BA)
Nick Akins - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's (.236 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/naaesm

AZL won 7-3

Ivan DeJesus Jr - 0 for 3, 3 K's (.000 BA)
Michael Pericht - 1 for 5, HR (4), RBI, R, K, E (.216 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 0 for 3, BB, K (.306 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lgh948

Player of the day - Kyle Russell, OF

Russell hit his league-leading 26th home run, 6 more than the next closest MWL hitter. His .552 SLG also leads the league and his .918 OPS is second. However, the category that worries me is strikeouts, where his 164 whiffs also pace the circuit. I have trouble believing that a 23 year old who strikes out this much in Low A will have success moving up the ladder, but I'd love for Kyle to prove me wrong.

Gordon, Russell named MVPs

2009-08-25T21:24:00.000-07:00

The Midwest League revealed its post-season All Star team, as well as its MVP and Prospect of the Year awards today. Dee Gordon took both honors, sharing the MVP award with teammate Kyle Russell. Gordon, son of major league reliever Tom, leads the league with 69 stolen bases and was recently named the league's Most Exciting Player by Baseball America. Russell leads the circuit in Home Runs with 26. Injured Loons catcher Tony Delmonico also made the post-season All Star team again, after playing in the mid-summer classic before going down with injuries to his hands.

http://tinyurl.com/m3etjk

Some thoughts on tonight's game

2009-08-25T21:02:00.000-07:00

I usually try not to complain much about managing, since it is such a difficult and nuanced profession. But 3 things really stood out to me about tonight's game.

1. Hawpe's second at bat

After looking so bad against Kershaw's sliders, the first pitch fastball to Hawpe in the 4th was brilliant, as Brad weakly flicked his wrists at it. After that, in my opinion, he should have then thrown nothing but sliders/curveballs. But after missing low with a breaking ball, Torre calls for another fastball which Hawpe hits 400+ feet. Now, Clayton missed badly on location, but when a batter looks utterly helpless against a certain pitch, you don't stop throwing it.

2. McDonald instead of Sherrill

In the bottom of the tenth, the following batters were due up for the Rockies - Ian Stewart, Carlos Gonzalez, Omar Quintanilla and, if anyone got on, Todd Helton. What do they have in common? Why, they're left-handed. So it would make sense to bring in your left-handed reliever to face them, no? Apparently not, according to Torre. He brings in James McDonald, who has posted decent numbers against southpaws, but doesn't have the type of late-inning experience that Sherrill brings to the table.

3. Not having Broxton up

After McDonald walked the leadoff batter, I would have immediately gotten both Sherrill AND Broxton up, in order to face Helton and/or Tulowitzki. Helton has only seen Sherrill once and made out. Broxton completely dominates Tulowitzki, as the shortstop is 0 for 11 with 8 strikeouts versus The Bull. But after Loney's error on Gonzalez' sac bunt and Quintanilla strikes out, Torre opts to walk Helton to load the bases and force McDonald to face Tulowitzki.

I can understand resistance to criticizing Torre over Clayton grooving a fastball, as Torre isn't doing the pitching. But when you have two very good relievers in your pen and choose not to use them in a crucial point in the game, you're not giving the team its best chance to win.

Minor League Recap - 8/24/09

2009-08-24T22:20:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 11-5

Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, K, HBP (.290 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 4, 2 K's (.243 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 5, 2B, R, OF Assist (.289 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lhqcpe

Chattanooga won 8-0

Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 2, R, 3 BB, K, SB, CS (.208 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 2, 2B, RBI, R, 2 BB (.257 BA)
Lucas May - 2 for 3, 2 2B's, 3 RBI, R, BB (.292 BA)

James Adkins - 6 IP, 4 Hits, 0 R, 4 BB, 5 K's (4.58 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nxujpz

Inland Empire won 9-3

Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 2, 2B, RBI, 2 R, 3 BB, K (.289 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 2 for 5, HR (8), 2 RBI, R (.237 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 5, 2 K's (.259 BA)

Kenley Jansen - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's (6.43 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mxogmv

Great Lakes lost 5-1

Dee Gordon - 2 for 2, 2 SB (.306 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 3, BB, K (.273 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 4, HR (4), RBI, R, K (.242 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 K's (.274 BA)

Ethan Martin - 3 IP, 2 Hits, 2 R (0 ER), 4 BB, 2 K's (4.02 ERA)
Nathan Eovaldi - 3 IP, 5 Hits, ER, BB, 4 K's (3.49 ERA)
Geison Aguasviva - 2 IP, 4 Hits, 2 ER, 0 BB, K (1.78 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lsntjr

Ogden did not play

AZL won 7-4

Jonathan Garcia - 1 for 4, HR (3), 2 RBI, R, 3 K's (.313 BA)
Michael Pericht - 1 for 3, 2B, RBI, K (.216 BA)
Jan Vazquez - 1 for 3, R, BB, K (.182 BA)

Travis Schlichting - 1 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (0.00 ERA)
Carlos Frias - 5 IP, Hit, ER, 3 BB, 4 K's (4.45 ERA)
Greg Miller - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l6lqoh

Player of the day - Dee Gordon, SS

Gordon has had a great full season debut, far better than many would have expected. He's now among the minor league leaders with 69 stolen bases, with a success rate of about 75%. He's holding his own against lefties, batting .281 with a very impressive .383 OBP against them. And to top it off, despite his high error totals, Total Zone rates his defense in the first half as near average. Dee took a foul ball off his leg and exited the game early today, but he'll be back polishing his skills soon.

Minor League Recap - 8/23/09

2009-08-23T22:45:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 6-5

Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 3, RBI, R (.288 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 4, E (.291 BA)

Scott Elbert - 4 IP, 5 Hits, 2 R (1 ER), BB, 6 K's (4.40 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kwzdck

Chattanooga won 2-1

Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 4, R, SB (.227 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 3, 2B, R, OF Assist, HBP (.256 BA)
Lucas May - 0 for 2, RBI, BB, 2 K's (.287 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mt5j9v

Inland Empire lost 5-0

Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 3, BB, K (.288 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's, SB (.235 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/npf3mr

Great Lakes won 3-2

Dee Gordon - 1 for 2, R, BB, K, SB, CS, E (.303 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 2 for 4, HR (12), RBI, 2 R, K (.259 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 4, 2 RBI, K, SB (.275 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.242 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 0 for 4, K (.275 BA)

Cole St Clair - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (2.87 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lom862

Ogden won 3-2

BCG - 2 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI (.335 BA)
JT Wise - 0 for 3, E (.296 BA)

Javier Solano - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (4.44 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l42yym

AZL did not play

Player of the day - Brian Cavazos-Galvez, OF

Galvez' league leading 27th double resulting in the game-tying and game-winning runs scoring in the 8th inning, giving the Raptors their 11th win of the second half. BCG is tied for 7th in BA, 3rd in SLG and 6th in OPS. The only downside is his lack of walks; he's drawn just 7 in 56 games. If Brian can learn to show a little patience, he'll establish himself as more than a Pioneer league star.

Minor League Recap - 8/22/09

2009-08-22T22:31:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 8-4

Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 5, RBI, R, K (.296 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 1 (.288 BA)

Vicente Padilla - 5 IP, 3 Hits, 2 ER, 3 BB, 5 K's (3.60 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nzk8fv

Chattanooga lost 7-1

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, RBI, K (.167 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 K's (.256 BA)

Victor Garate - 1.2 IP, 2 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 0 K's (1.94 ERA)
Javy Guerra - 1 IP, Hit, R (0 ER), BB, 0 K's (4.09 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/maasb2

Inland Empire lost 10-3

Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 4, R, BB, 2 K's (.288 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 3, R, 2 BB, K (.263 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 2 for 4, 2B, BB, 2 K's, SB (.237 BA)

Justin Miller - 3 IP, 7 Hits, 9 R (4 ER), 2 BB, K (6.63 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n7my4q

Great Lakes won 6-0

Dee Gordon - 1 for 4, RBI, R, SB (.302 BA)
Kyle Russell - 2 for 4, 2B, HR (25), RBI, R, 2 K's (.275 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 2, BB (.259 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 0 for 2, R, BB, K (.277 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 3, 3B, RBI (.150 BA)

Aaron Miller - 5.1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 4 BB, 5 K's (2.11 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/npp92v

Ogden won 2-1

BCG - 1 for 5, 2 RBI (.332 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 4, 2B, 3 K's (.250 BA)
JT Wise - 0 for 2, 2 BB, K (.305 BA)

Carl Webster - 7.2 IP, 4 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 9 K's (0.00 ERA)
Steven Ames - 2.1 IP, 3 Hits, ER, BB, 3 K's (1.14 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mxjfz9

AZL lost 10-4

Jonathan Garcia - 3 for 4, 2 2B's, 3 R (.315 BA)

Danny Danielson - 5 IP, 3 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, 4 K's (3.20 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l759ho

Players of the day - Aaron Miller, LHP and Carl Webster, RHP

Miller's command took a step backward today, but his stuff was as good as ever as he pitched 5.1 innings of 1 hit ball, striking out 5. His overall strikeout rate is 13 per 9 and his ERA is 3.00. Webster has been even better, and had an amazing debut in Ogden. He's now struck out 65 batters in 55.1 IP (10.5 per 9) compared to just 14 walks; he walked 17 batters in 18.1 innings last year. He's also posting a near 2 to 1 groundball ratio and has yet to allow a home run. Whatever Webster's doing, it's working.

Minor League Recap - 8/21/09

2009-08-21T22:56:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 7-3

Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 4, HR (6), RBI, R (.288 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 4 (.243 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 4 (.294 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 2 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 2 K's (2.81 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n6vqfe

Chattanooga won 5-3

Andrew Lambo - 1 for 3, BB, E (.256 BA)
Lucas May - 3 for 4, 2 R, E (.290 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, RBI, 2 K's (.143 BA)

Chris Withrow - 4 IP, 3 Hits, 3 ER, 4 BB, 2 K's (5.19 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mlx9o7

Inland Empire lost 19-4

Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 4 (.288 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.262 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 2, R, 2 BB (.234 BA)

Tim Sexton - 5 IP, 11 Hits, 6 ER, BB, 4 K's (3.44 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lffp7w

Great Lakes lost 4-1

Dee Gordon - 1 for 4, 3B, E (.303 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 3, R, BB, K, SB (.273 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 3, 2 K's (.268 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 0 for 3 (.278 BA)
Mario Songco - 0 for 2, BB, K (.145 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lkkbwb

Ogden lost 4-3

BCG - 0 for 3, K, SB (.335 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 4, 2 K's, CS, E (.250 BA)
Kyle Orr - 0 for 3, 3 K's (.219 BA)
JT Wise - 0 for 1, RBI (.311 BA)

Brett Wallach - 3 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 2 K's (4.43 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lqwwpb

AZL was suspended due to rain

Player of the day - Bolivar Medina, LHP

Although the game didn't end, the stats will become official once the contest is completed. His line: 6 IP, Hit, ER, BB, 8 K's. The 20 year old Dominican is putting up strong numbers after not pitching last season. He's averaging almost a strikeout an inning, with less than 3 walks per 9. Hopefully he can stay healthy and continue producing.

Minor League Recap - 8/20/09

2009-08-20T23:05:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 5-4

Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 4, BB (.289 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 2 for 5, 3B, HR (5), RBI, 2 R, K (.247 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, R, BB, K, E (.300 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nlwsvc

Chattanooga won 8-6

Lucas May - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI, R, E (.281 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 4, R, BB, K (.100 BA)

Javy Guerra - 2 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, 4 K's (4.29 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kk8crs

Inland Empire lost 3-2

Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 3, BB (.291 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 4, K (.265 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 3 (.233 BA)

Kenley Jansen - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (7.50 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lqa8yh

Great Lakes won 18-4

Dee Gordon - 2 for 4, 2 R, K (.303 BA)
Kyle Russell - 3 for 5, 2 2B's, RBI, 2 R, BB, K (.275 BA)
Jerry Sands - 2 for 4, 2B, HR (3), 4 R, 2 BB (.283 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 2 for 6, HR (13), 3 RBI, R, K (.280 BA)

Roberto Feliciano - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/munrtg

Ogden won 5-4

BCG - 1 for 2, 2 RBI, R, BB, K, CS (.341 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 4, 2 K's (.250 BA)
JT Wise - 1 for 3, BB (.314 BA)
Kyle Orr - 1 for 4, K (.224 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ladv9v

AZL lost 8-3

Jan Vazquez - 0 for 3, BB, E (.183 BA)

Greg Miller - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (0.00 ERA)
Amauri Guzman - 1.1 IP, 2 Hits, 2 ER, BB, 0 K's (3.86 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ntkwrg

Player of the day - Jerry Sands, 1B/OF

2 more extra basehits for Sands. He's now up to 8 in his last 10 games and 33 in 56 overall. His August OPS is now a ridiculous 1.231. I expected Jerry's stats to regress drastically once he was promoted and I'm glad I was wrong. Sands is making a case for the title of "Best Dodgers' Outfield Prospect."

Minor League Recap - 9/19/09

2009-08-19T23:00:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 4-2

Chin Lung Hu - 3 for 5, HR (5), RBI, R (.289 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 5 (.244 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 4, 2 RBI (.296 BA)

Scott Elbert - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, 2 K's (4.74 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nbhc4g

Chattanooga lost 5-4

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, RBI, 2 K's, SB, OF Assist (.167 BA)

James Adkins - 5 IP, 6 Hits, 3 R (2 ER), 2 BB, 5 K's (4.81 ERA)
Victor Garate - 0 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K's (1.82 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l7ot6s

Inland Empire lost 9-6

Jovanny Rosario - 3 for 5, R, 2 SB (.250 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 4, RBI, R, OF Assist (.291 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 2, HR (13), 2 RBI, R, 2 BB (.268 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 4 (.234 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mwrhc5

Great Lakes did not play

Ogden lost 7-5

BCG - 3 for 5, R, K, SB (.339 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 4, RBI, BB (.250 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/n6d2of

AZL lost 3-2

Jonathan Garcia - 1 for 3, BB, 2 K's (.300 BA)

Carlos Frias - 5 IP, 4 Hits, 2 ER, 3 BB, 3 K's (4.70 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/me8asy

Player of the day - Chin Lung Hu, SS

Remember him? All of a sudden, Hu is starting to hit. After batting .301 in July, he's up to .404 in August with 2 doubles, 2 home runs and 5 triples. He's even drawn 6 walks compared to just 3 walks. Now, he's 25 and in the PCL, but it's still nice to see him putting up some respectable numbers.

Minor League Recap - 8/18/09

2009-08-18T22:59:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 8-4

Tony Abreu - 3 for 4, RBI, R (.360 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 4 for 4, 2B, R, BB, E (.285 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 3, R, 2 BB (.248 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 4, RBI (.292 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (2.70 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nhqef4

Chattanooga lost 2-1

Lucas May - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.281 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 4, 3 K's (.255 BA)

Javy Guerra - 0.1 IP, Hit, ER, 0 BB, K (4.74 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/knmk68

Inland Empire lost 8-1

Jovanny Rosario - 0 for 4 (.000 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 4, 2B, K, OF Assist (.291 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 3, K, E (.234 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/r9ejl9

Great Lakes lost 5-3

Dee Gordon - 0 for 4, K (.301 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.271 BA)
Jerry Sands - 3 for 3, HR (2), RBI, 2 R, SB (.265 BA)
Mario Songco - 0 for 3 (.148 BA)

Geison Aguasviva - 6 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 4 BB, 5 K's (1.51 ERA)
Roberto Feliciano - 0.2 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/o34lmp

Ogden won 6-3

BCG - 0 for 2, 2 RBI, BB (.333 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 4, 2B, K (.250 BA)
Kyle Orr - 0 for 4, E (.223 BA)
JT Wise - 2 for 4, 2B, R, K (.313 BA)

Steven Ames - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's (0.84 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/qsndub

AZL did not play

Player of the day - Jerry Sands, 1B/OF

Sands is doing his best to prove that his Pioneer league rampage wasn't an illusion. In his first 5 games as a Loon, Jerry went 2 for 17 with no extra basehits and 7 K's. Over his last 9 games, he's 11 for 32 with 6 extra basehits and 10 K's. The walks are down a bit and the strikeouts are up, but his 1.101 OPS can't be ignored.

Minor League Recap - 8/17/09

2009-08-17T22:06:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 4-3

Tony Abreu - 3 for 5, 2B, K (.351 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 5, 2B, R, 2 K's (.298 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 4 (.279 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/q44mcv

Chattanooga lost 3-2

Lucas May - 0 for 4, RBI, PO (.287 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 4, BB, 2 K's, E (.257 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 2, RBI, 2 BB, K (.000 BA)

Victor Garate - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (1.82 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/o5uk8c

Inland Empire did not play

Great Lakes won 7-5

Dee Gordon - 2 for 5, 2B, RBI (.304 BA)
Kyle Russell - 3 for 4, 2 2B's, 3 RBI, R, BB, K, SB (.273 BA)
Nick Buss - 2 for 4, K, SB (.251 BA)
Mario Songco - 0 for 5, 2 K's (.152 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 5, R, 2 K's (.217 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 0 for 4, K (.280 BA)

Aaron Miller - 3 IP, 6 Hits, 3 ER, BB, 8 K's (2.81 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, 2 K's (2.97 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/r394yn

Ogden won 11-10

BCG - 1 for 5, R, K (.336 BA)
Gorman Erickson - 3 for 4, 3 2B's, RBI, 3 R, BB, K (.333 BA)
Nick Akins - 2 for 5, 2B, 2 K's (.250 BA)
Kyle Orr - 1 for 4, RBI, R, BB, K (.231 BA)
JT Wise - 3 for 3, R, BB (.305 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 3, 2B, 2 RBI, R, 2 K's (.205 BA)

Javier Solano - 2.1 IP, 6 Hits, 5 R (4 ER), 2 BB, K (4.84 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/pt4nb7

AZL lost 7-3

Jonathan Garcia - 2 for 4, 2B (.299 BA)

Carl Webster - 3.2 IP, 4 Hits, 6 R (1 ER), BB, 4 K's (2.08 ERA)
Greg Miller - 1.1 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, K (0.00 ERA)
Beyker Fructuoso - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (6.93 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/qt67vw

Player of the Day - Gorman Erickson, C

Drafted in the 15th round of the 2006 draft, Erickson has been languishing in rookie ball for the past 3 seasons. In 2008, he batted .261 for the GCL team and got 5 at bats with the Triple A club. This year, he's having far more success in a far more hitter-friendly league. He's posted a solid walk rate before and his 17 free passes in 38 games is a good sign. But he's already 21, so unless he starts putting up some numbers in full season ball, I'd say this is the result of playing in the Pioneer league instead of some type of breakout.

AFLAC All American Game notes

2009-08-17T14:23:00.001-07:00

Bryce Harper is human. Who knew? The 16 year old catcher went 0 for 5 with 3 K's. He was helpless against breaking balls and his bat looked slow. Bad time to have a bad day, but one poor performance isn't going to cost him much. And on the plus side, he looked good behind the plate and showed off his arm strength.

Two of the best players I saw were RHP's Jameson Taillon and Stetson Allie. Taillon is already huge at 6'7 230 lbs, well proportioned and athletic. His fastball sits in the mid 90s and he compliments it with an absolutely filthy low 80s breaking ball. His arm slot is 3/4, so he doesn't get as much downhill plane as he can, but his mechanics are simple and repeatable. In my eyes, he's the top high school player in the draft class at this very early stage.

Allie is legendary on the showcase circuit for showing upper 90s heat and sat comfortably in the mid 90s during his appearance. He's a big guy at 6'4 225 and has a lightning quick arm. Stetson also showed an upper 80s slider and a changeup around 80. He spins off towards first in his followthrough, but it's something scouts will view as a minor detail in the big picture.

RHP AJ Cole gave up a few hard hit balls, but the 6'5 180 pounder has a body that screams projection, as he could easily add another 20-30 pounds in years to come. His fastball is already in the low 90s and he has a reliable breaking ball around 80mph.

Tony Wolters walked away with the MVP award, going 2 for 3 with a triple and a couple runs scored. He's not physically imposing or particularly projectable, but he's a grinder who gets the job done and has great instincts.

Yordy Cabrera won the HR derby. The SS/RHP didn't do much in the game but has tools to spare and the ability to stay on the left side of the infield. He's already 19 and will be 20 when he becomes draft eligible.

Another kid who stood out was Steve Bedrosian's son, Cameron. He doesn't stand out for his size, but the stuff is definitely there. The righty touched the mid 90s and showed 3 secondary pitches. RHP Kevin Gausman showed plus-plus arm strength, touching 97mph, with an extremely easy delivery and a very projectable build. RHP Dylan Covey showed off easy mid 90s velocity as well as a trio of secondary offerings, though he struggled with command.

Hitters were scarce at the event, which reminds me of last year's crop. Pitching heavy with some bats sprinkled in. There was also a lack of southpaws on the bump, meaning the first lefty to touch 95 likely becomes a first rounder. Lots will change between now and next June, but it's fun to get a look at the kids now and follow them until the draft.

Minor League Recap - 8/16/09

2009-08-16T22:17:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 5-2

Tony Abreu - 1 for 4, RBI, 2 K's, E (.344 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 3, BB, K (.251 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 3 (.281 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/qm6hsw

Chattanooga did not play

Inland Empire lost 5-0

Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 2, BB, 2 K's (.291 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 2, BB (.267 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 3, K, OF Assist (.233 BA)
Jovanny Rosario - 0 for 3, 3 K's (.000 BA)

Justin Miller - 7 IP, 9 Hits, 5 R (4 ER), 2 BB, 2 K's (5.63 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/q23dup

Great Lakes lost 4-0

Jerry Sands - 0 for 3, 2 K's (.220 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 0 for 3 (.282 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 3, 2B (.159 BA)

Nathan Eovaldi - 3 IP, Hit, 0 R, 3 BB, K (3.50 ERA)
Ethan Martin - 3 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 2 BB, 2 K's (4.15 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/p55xck

Ogden won 6-4

BCG - 1 for 4, 2B, R, K, SB (.340 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 3, HR (2), 3 RBI, R, BB (.222 BA)
Blake Smith - 0 for 4, 3 K's, OF Assist (.200 BA)

Brett Wallach - 3 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, BB, 5 K's (4.67 ERA)
Steven Ames - 2 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 4 K's (0.89 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ry3a4m

AZL won 10-3

Jonathan Garcia - 2 for 4, RBI, 2 R, BB, SB (.292 BA)

Dan Danielson - 5 IP, 5 Hits, 2 R (1 ER), BB, 7 K's (3.51 ERA)
Bolivar Medina - 4 IP, 5 Hits, R (0 ER), 0 BB, 3 K's (2.23 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/qyj37b

Player of the Day - Steven Ames, RHP

A 17th round pick out of Gonzaga, Ames spent the spring as a starter, posting a 3.91 ERA with 70 strikeouts and 21 walks in 96.2 IP. After signing, the Dodgers moved him to the bullpen and he's had the most impressive debut in the class of 2009. Steven's fastball sat 89-92 in college and it's conceivable that he may have gained some velocity in relief, which would explain his insane 33 strikeouts in 20.1 innings (14.6 per 9). He's also displayed excellent control, walking just 4 batters. A pitcher putting up these types of numbers in the Pioneer league is extremely impressive, so hopefully Ames has found his niche in the pen and can rocket through the Dodgers' system.

Minor League Recap - 8/15/09

2009-08-15T22:43:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 4-2

Tony Abreu - 1 for 3, 2 BB, K (.347 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 5 (.254 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 3, 2 RBI, CS, E (.283 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 2 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, K (2.89 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/qy9mqf

Chattanooga played a double header

Game 1 - Chattanooga lost 2-0

Lucas May - 1 for 3, CS, E (.293 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 3 (.259 BA)

Chris Withrow - 5 IP, 6 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 4 K's (4.72 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/oluxwo

Game 2 - Chattanooga lost 5-2

Andrew Lambo - 1 for 3 (.260 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/orzybz

Inland Empire won 8-1

Scott Van Slyke - 2 for 3, HR (21), 2 RBI, 2 R, 2 BB, E, OF Assist (.293 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 4, HR (12), 2 RBI, 2 R, BB, K (.265 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 4 (.235 BA)

Tim Sexton - 7 IP, 6 Hits, R (0 ER), 2 BB, 3 K's (3.17 ERA)
Kenley Jansen - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, K (9.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/rb4faw

Great Lakes won 7-5

Dee Gordon - 2 for 5, 2B, RBI, R (.303 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 3, RBI, BB, 2 K's (.269 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 4, R, 2 K's (.284 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 3, RBI, R, BB (.237 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 4, 2B, R (.154 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/pny44a

Ogden lost 8-7

BCG - 2 for 5, RBI, R, 2 K's (.341 BA)
JT Wise - 2 for 4, R, K (.283 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 4, RBI, 3 K's (.210 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/qcg6pe

AZL lost 10-4

Jonathan Garcia - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 K's, 2 E's (.284 BA)
Jan Vazquez - 2 for 4, 2B, R, K (.193 BA)

Amauri Guzman - 1.1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, 2 K's (2.61 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/p2yra2

Players of the Day - Chris Withrow, RHP and Tim Sexton, RHP

Both 2007 draft picks had disappointing 2008 seasons but have really turn things around this year. Each of them started the year back in High A Inland Empire after struggling to perform, be it due to poor production (Sexton) or lack of playing time (Withrow). Chris is now in Double A at the ripe old age of 20 and, after a rough debut, has allowed just 1 earned run in his last 10 innings. Sexton has been one of the best pitchers in the California league, placing 4th in the circuit in ERA. Both have established themselves as top pitchers in the Dodgers' system and are only a year or two away from the major leagues.

Minor League Recap - 8/14/09

2009-08-14T22:46:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 12-6

Tony Abreu - 3 for 6, 2B, RBI, R, K (.347 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 5, R, BB, K (.255 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 5, 3B, HR (4), 2 RBI, 3 R (.283 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/od85rm

Chattanooga lost 9-1

Andrew Lambo - 0 for 3, BB, K (.261 BA)

James Adkins - 3 IP, 7 Hits, 6 R (3 ER), 4 BB, 2 K's (4.86 ERA)
Javy Guerra - 2 IP, Hit, ER, 2 BB, K (4.19 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/qjq53k

Inland Empire won 6-5

Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 4, HR (15), RBI, R, BB, K, E (.306 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 2 for 5, HR (20), RBI, 2 R, OF Assist (.290 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 4, RBI, 2 K's (.265 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/qb2xm6

Great Lakes won 6-5

Dee Gordon - 2 for 3, BB, K, 2 SB, CS (.302 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 2, 2 R, 2 BB, K (.271 BA)
Mario Songco - 0 for 3, BB, K (.150 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 3, HR (12), 3 RBI, 2 R, BB, K (.285 BA)
Jerry Sands - 2 for 4, 3B, HR (1), 3 RBI, R (.229 BA)

Cole St Clair - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K's (3.07 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/q68cxf

Ogden lost 6-4

BCG - 2 for 4, HR (13), RBI, R, K, SB, OF Assist (.340 BA)
Nick Akins - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.208 BA)
Kyle Orr - 0 for 4, K (.230 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 4, R, K (.208 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ps22zo

AZL won 2-1

Michael Pericht - 0 for 3, RBI, 2 K's, E (.230 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 1 for 2, 2B, BB, HBP (.286 BA)

Greg Miller - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K's (0.00 ERA)
Carlos Frias - 5 IP, 3 Hits, 0 R, 3 BB, 6 K's (4.81 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/q8ed42

Player of the Day - Jerry Sands, OF

Through 5 games, Sands' production hasn't dropped off since leaving the cozy confines of the Pioneer league. After clubbing 14 HR in 41 games with the Raptors, Jerry finally hit his first in 10 with the Loons. The strikeouts are back up (6 in 18 at bats), though half of those came in 1 game. While he was drafted out of college, Sands doesn't turn 22 until the end of next month and could be a candidate to spend 2010 in the Inland Empire.

Dodgers sign 2nd round pick Garrett Gould

2009-08-14T17:38:00.001-07:00

According to Ken Gurnick of MLB.com, the Dodgers have signed Kansas prep pitcher Garrett Gould, their second round selection in this past June's amateur player draft. Terms of the signing were not disclosed.

Gould joins the rest of the Dodgers' top ten picks in signing. The deadline to sign draft picks is Monday the 17th. I'm still holding out that the Dodgers reach a last minute deal with 25th round pick Richie Shaffer, but I'm not holding my breath.

Minor League Recap - 8/13/09

2009-08-13T22:07:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque did not play

Chattanooga lost 5-3

Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI, K (.263 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 3, RBI, HBP (.293 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/qdffcz

Inland Empire did not play

Great Lakes won 6-4

Dee Gordon - 3 for 4, 2B, 3 RBI, R, SB, CS (.300 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's (.270 BA)
Mario Songco - 0 for 4 (.155 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 3, R, BB, 2 K's (.284 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 3, 2B, R, K (.194 BA)

Cole St Clair - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, 2 K's (3.18 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/qhqcwz

Ogden won 10-1

BCG - 2 for 5, 2B, HR (12), 3 RBI, R, K, HBP (.337 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 4, R, 2 BB, K (.250 BA)
Kyle Orr - 2 for 5, 2B, 2 RBI, R, 2 K's (.239 BA)
JT Wise - 1 for 5, 2B, RBI, K, E (.273 BA)

Javier Solano - 2 IP, Hit, ER, BB, 3 K's (3.60 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/q9fxqn

AZL did not play

Player of the day - Dee Gordon, SS

Today's effort doubled Dee's hit total over the past 10 games. He's been slumping in August, batting just .204, possibly seeing the long grind of a full season test his endurance. He also stole his 63rd base, which places him among the minor league leaders. Gordon's season has been an undeniable success, and while he still needs to polish certain aspects of his game, the sky's the limit for Flash Jr.

Withrow article on BaseballAmerica.com

2009-08-13T11:49:00.000-07:00

Inland Empire righthander Chris Withrow lost all but four innings of his 2008 season to an unusual snorkel-induced injury, followed by an unrelated, lingering bout of elbow discomfort. In 2009, he's making up for lost time.

http://www.baseballamerica.com/online/minors/classification-reports/high-class-a/2009/268708.html

Minor League Recap - 8/12/09

2009-08-12T22:05:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 8-6

Tony Abreu - 2 for 5, 2B, R, E (.341 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 2 for 4, 2B, 3 RBI, R (.256 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/qufuyn

Chattanooga won 5-2

Lucas May - 2 for 5, 2B, R, K (.292 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 3, HR (11), 4 RBI, R, 2 K's (.263 BA)

Javy Guerra - 0.1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (4.15 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/oledlx

Inland Empire lost 6-1

Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.235 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, HR (14), RBI, R, 3 K's (.305 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 3, K (.289 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/omfkxc

Great Lakes lost 1-0

Dee Gordon - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.296 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 2 for 4, 2B, K (.256 BA)
Mario Songco - 0 for 3, BB, K (.161 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's (.272 BA)

Aaron Miller - 5 IP, 3 Hits, ER, BB, 4 K's (1.38 ERA)
Geison Aguasviva - 4 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, 2 K's (1.51 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ppx6od

Ogden lost 3-2

BCG - 2 for 4, K, CS (.335 BA)
Blake Smith - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.205 BA)
Nick Akins - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, R (.250 BA)

Daigoro Rondon - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's (4.02 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/qrfw9g

AZL won 5-1

Jonatahan Garcia - 1 for 4, R, K (.282 BA)
Austin King - 2 for 4, 2B, HR (1), 2 RBI, R (.196 BA)
Jan Vazquez - 0 for 4, K (.170 BA)

Carl Webster - 5 IP, 2 Hits, R (0 ER), BB, 8 K's (2.05 ERA)
Beyker Fructuoso - 3 IP, Hit, 0 R, 2 BB, 3 K's (7.23 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/qv72ed

Player of the Day - Carl Webster, RHP

An unheralded 18th round pick out of a NC high school, Webster was solid in his debut but struggled mightily with control (17 walks in 18.1 IP). This year, he has walked only 13 in 44 innings while striking out 52. Carl's making a case for a late season promotion, but he'll be just 20 next season which is a fine age to start full season ball.

Minor League Recap - 8/11/09

2009-08-11T23:10:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 9-5

Tony Abreu - 1 for 5, HR (10), RBI, R, K (.340 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 3, BB, K, PO (.252 BA)

Scott Elbert - 4 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, BB, 3 K's (5.16 ERA)
Josh Lindblom - 1 IP, 2 Hits, 2 ER, 0 BB, 2 K's (3.12 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/pvzorx

Chattanooga did not play

Inland Empire won 3-2

Preston Mattingly - 1 for 5, R, 3 K's (.238 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, 2 R, BB, K, SB (.305 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 3, 2B, 2 RBI, BB, K (.291 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.269 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/q2r5mb

Great Lakes lost 10-5

Dee Gordon - 0 for 5, K (.298 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 2 for 5, 2B, HR (11), RBI, 3 R, 2 K's (.285 BA)
Kyle Russell - 3 for 5, 2 RBI, K, 2 SB (.274 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 4, 3 K's (.179 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 3, 3B, RBI, R, BB (.167 BA)

Ethan Martin - 3 IP, 2 Hits, 2 ER, 3 BB, 5 K's (4.19 ERA)
Nathan Eovaldi - 2.1 IP, 8 Hits, 7 R (5 ER), 2 BB, K (3.63 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/qstxhp

Ogden won 16-6

BCG - 1 for 5, HR (11), 3 RBI, 3 R, BB, K (.332 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 3, 2B, 2 RBI, 3 R, 2 BB, K (.217 BA)
Nick Akins - 2 for 4, 2B, GS (1), 5 RBI, 2 R, K, HBP (.167 BA)

Brett Wallach - 3 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (5.65 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/r8qolj

AZL lost 5-4

Jonathan Garcia - 2 for 4, 2B (.283 BA)

Dan Danielson - 5 IP, 6 Hits, 3 ER, 0 BB, 8 K's (3.69 ERA)
Bolivar Medina - 2 IP, 2 Hits, R (0 ER), 3 BB, 3 K's (2.51 ERA)
Roberto Feliciano - 0.1 IP, Hit, ER, 2 BB, 0 K's (1.50 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/qtulvk

Player of the Day - Alfredo Silverio, OF

Fredo has been one of the hottest hitters in the minors this month. Since the 1st, he's batting .395 with 4 doubles and 3 HR. He's collected 4 straight multi-hit games with extra basehits in 3 of his last 4. Hopefully Silverio figured something out after the All Star break and he can ride this hot streak for the next few seasons.

Minor League Recap - 8/10/09

2009-08-10T23:15:00.001-07:00

Albuquerque won 8-6

Tony Abreu - 2 for 5, 3B, GS (9), 5 RBI, 2 R (.344 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 5, K (.255 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 4, R, K, SB (.293 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ndt6sq

Chattanooga won 10-2

Andrew Lambo - 1 for 5, 2B, 2 R (.263 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 5, RBI, R, K (.289 BA)

Chris Withrow - 5 IP, 3 Hits, 2 R (0 ER), 3 BB, 5 K's (6.48 ERA)
Victor Garate - 1 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (1.90 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nhakad

Inland Empire lost 3-1

Preston Mattingly - 0 for 2, SB (.238 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 2, 2 BB (.306 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 4, 3 K's (.290 BA)

Justin Miller - 5 IP, 5 Hits, 2 R (1 ER), 4 BB, 5 K's (6.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/la8pch

Great Lakes won 7-4

Dee Gordon - 1 for 3, 2B, BB, 2 K's (.302 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 2 for 4, 2 R, SB, OF Assist (.284 BA)
Jerry Sands - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, 2 R, K (.208 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 K's (.161 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ldlxbr

Ogden lost 8-1

BCG - 1 for 3 (.335 BA)
Kyle Orr - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's (.231 BA)
JT Wise - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.277 BA)
Nick Akins - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.000 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 3, BB (.212 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/l4eccu

AZL lost 8-6

Michael Pericht - 0 for 4, R, 3 K's (.238 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 1 for 4, RBI, 3 K's, E (.274 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ljoh84

Player of the Day - Chris Withrow, RHP

Chris was far better the second go-round as he allowed just 2 unearned runs (on a play where 2 errors were committed) and struck out 5 batters. He velocity was in its usual mid 90s range, though his command of the strike zone eluded him occasionally. Withrow has had problems throwing strikes all season and may be tiring as he's approaching 100 innings pitched after tossing just 4 last year. However, reaching Double A as a 20 year old is an impressive feat and any success he has at the level is icing on the cake.

Minor League Recap - 8/09/09

2009-08-09T23:14:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 6-4

Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 4 (.281 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 2, 2B, 2 R, 2 BB (.256 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 4, K (.289 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ll3lk7

Chattanooga lost 4-0

James Adkins - 4 IP, 5 Hits, 4 ER, 4 BB, 8 K's (4.75 ERA)
Javy Guerra - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (4.24 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kpd93n

Inland Empire lost 8-1

Preston Mattingly - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's (.240 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, 2 K's, SB (.307 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 4, RBI, 2 K's (.293 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 4, 4 K's (.272 BA)

Tim Sexton - 5 IP, 8 Hits, 8 R (4 ER), BB, K (3.34 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mtdr4u

Great Lakes won 6-0

Dee Gordon - 0 for 3, K, CS, HBP (.301 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 4, 2B, K (.270 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 3, 3B, RBI, R, BB, K (.150 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 2 for 3, 2B, HR (10), RBI, R, K (.282 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nzkugz

Ogden did not play

AZL won 9-5

Michael Pericht - 2 for 3, 2 R, BB, K (.250 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 3 for 4, 2B, RBI, R, BB, K (.275 BA)

Carlos Frias - 5 IP, 5 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 6 K's (5.36 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l4dmo9

Player of the Day - Alfredo Silverio, OF

He could have made it yesterday, going 4 for 4 with a double. He's 10 for his last 20 with 2 doubles and 2 home runs. While Fredo's batting .283 with 10 home runs, it's difficult to call this year much of a success. Comparatively, it's better than 2008, which isn't setting the bar too high. He's still not walking enough, though he's more than doubled his output from last season. The .769 OPS is a step forward, but a very small one.

Minor League Recap - 8/08/09

2009-08-08T23:00:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 17-7

Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 5, 3B, RBI, 3 R, BB, K (.284 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 4 for 6, 2 RBI, 3 R (.295 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 2 for 5, HR (4), 3 RBI, 2 R, BB, 2 K's (.254 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 3.1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (2.52 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/njparl

Chattanooga lost 8-3

Andrew Lambo - 0 for 4, 2 RBI (.263 BA)
Lucas May - 0 for 4, K (.291 BA)

Victor Garate - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, 2 K's (1.94 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n7lvdu

Inland Empire lost 8-3

Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, K (.242 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 4, 2B, 2 R, 2 K's (.308 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 4, R, 3 K's (.296 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 4, K (.275 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/n3jx3d

Great Lakes won 10-2

Dee Gordon - 0 for 4, BB, SB (.303 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 3 for 4, 3 RBI, R, BB, K, CS (.261 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 5, 2B, RBI, R, K (.157 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 3, 2 R, BB, K (.270 BA)
Nick Buss - 3 for 4, 2B, HR (9), 4 RBI, 3 R (.259 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 4 for 4, 2B, RBI, R (.279 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ksvx95

Ogden won 4-3

BCG - 2 for 4, RBI, K (.335 BA)
Kyle Orr - 1 for 3, R, BB (.238 BA)
Nick Akins - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.000 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 3, 2B, 2 RBI (.206 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/njdfmy

AZL did not play

Player of the Day - Nick Buss, OF

Buss has been very hot and cold this season. In May, he batted .293 with 6 xbh's and 5 SB. Over the next 2 months, he batted .224 and .248 with 6 walks and 38 strikeouts. Nick is back to hot in August, with a .316 average and a 1.066 OPS in 6 games. He's main problem is his inability to hit lefties (.168 BA, .437 OPS), as he's been otherwise solid against righties (.296 BA, .813 OPS). He'll need to improve against southpaws if he wants to continue his pro career.

Minor League Recap - 8/07/09

2009-08-07T23:19:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 7-5

Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 4, 2 R, BB (.283 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 2 for 3, HR (3), 2 RBI, R, BB (.251 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 4, RBI, R (.282 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/kr5noq

Chattanooga won 4-2

Andrew Lambo - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, K (.266 BA)
Lucas May - 0 for 3, R, BB, K (.298 BA)

Javy Guerra - 2 IP, 4 Hits, ER, BB, 2 K's (4.50 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nnre9t

Inland Empire lost 6-3

Preston Mattingly - 1 for 3, BB, K, SB (.244 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, R, K (.306 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 3, K, SB, CS, E, OF Assist, HBP (.297 BA)
Steven Caseres - 2 for 3, 2B, 2 R, BB, K (.276 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nx2k6a

Great Lakes won 3-0

Dee Gordon - 1 for 4, K, CS (.306 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 3, K (.271 BA)
Kyle Russell - 2 for 3, 3B, RBI, R (.269 BA)
Mario Songco - 0 for 3, K (.154 BA)

Aaron Miller - 5 IP, 3 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 6 K's (1.13 ERA)
Geison Aguasviva - 3 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's (1.65 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (3.29 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nk87t6

Ogden lost 4-3

BCG - 1 for 4, OF Assist (.331 BA)
JT Wise - 0 for 4, K (.291 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 4, R, 2 K's (.200 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/kt8ept

AZL lost 4-3

Jan Vazquez - 2 for 5, RBI, 2 K's (.184 BA)

Roberto Feliciano - 2 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (1.14 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ljboxz

Players of the Day - Loons pitching

The trio of southpaws combined for a 4 hit shutout in which they struck out 11 and walked none. Miller, who debuted with AZL, struggled in his first few appearances, allowing 3 earned runs in his first 2.2 IP. Since then, he's given up only 2 in his last 11 and he's racked up the strikeouts. Aaron is averaging a disgusting 14.5 per 9 innings. He's also getting plenty of groundballs. Aguasviva got a late start to the season but was dominant from the get-go and he's kept the ball in the zone as well as on the ground. St Clair hasn't lived up to his potential but he's proven himself a more than capable reliever. In spite of lost velocity on his fastball, he's still posting a K rate of almost 12 per 9.

Tony Delmonico to DL

2009-08-07T16:25:00.000-07:00

No specific diagnosis, but he's headed to AZ to see a hand specialist.

Minor League Recap - 8/06/09

2009-08-06T22:13:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 12-7

Chin Lung Hu - 3 for 5, 2 3B's, 2 RBI, 3 R (.283 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 3 for 5, 3B, 2 RBI, R (.246 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lrjq2e

Chattanooga won 3-2

Lucas May - 1 for 3, BB, K, SB (.304 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, 2B, K (.264 BA)

Victor Garate - 1.1 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, BB, 2 K's (1.99 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mgrzwq

Inland Empire lost 5-3

Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 4, 3 K's (.306 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 2 for 3, 2B, HR (19), RBI, R, BB (.299 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.244 BA)

Ronald Belisario - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, 2 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kol9fk

Great Lakes won 10-1

Dee Gordon - 0 for 5, K (.306 BA)
Mario Songco - 2 for 5, 2 RBI (.160 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 5, HR (24), RBI, R, 3 K's (.266 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 4, HR (9), 3 RBI, R, K (.271 BA)

Nathan Eovaldi - 3 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, BB, 2 K's (3.18 ERA)
Ethan Martin - 3 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 3 K's (4.13 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ll7rs5

Ogden won 4-3

BCG - 3 for 4, 2 2B's, RBI, R, K, CS (.333 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 2, 2B, 2 R, 2 BB, K (.350 BA)
JT Wise - 0 for 4, K (.307 BA)
Kyle Orr - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.235 BA)

Javier Solano - 2.1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 3 BB, 3 K's (3.50 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nnnas2

AZL lost 11-2

Nick Akins - 0 for 2, BB (.333 BA)
Michael Pericht - 0 for 3 (.234 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 1 for 3, 2B, RBI, K (.253 BA)

Bolivar Medina - 3 IP, 5 Hits, 6 R (2 ER), 2 BB, 0 K's (2.67 ERA)
Beyker Fructuoso - 1 IP, 2 Hits, 2 ER, 0 BB, 2 K's (8.27 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nwex8x

Player of the Day - Andre Ethier, OF

Just said to myself, "he should look for something here." Atta boy, Andre!

Minor League Recap - 8/05/09

2009-08-05T22:51:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 6-2

Tony Abreu - 1 for 4, K, SB (.342 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 3, BB, K (.238 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 4, R, K (.289 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 2, 2 BB (.279 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 2 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 4 K's (2.91 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mh4ybm

Chattanooga won 7-2

Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 R, K (.264 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nn3kau

Inland Empire lost 8-4

Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 5, 3B, HR (13), 2 RBI, 2 R, K (.309 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 3, BB, K, OF Assist (.296 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 4, 2B, R, K (.246 BA)

Justin Miller - 4 IP, 7 Hits, 5 ER, 3 BB, K (11.25 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nsfgqy

Great Lakes lost 4-0

Dee Gordon - 1 for 4, 2 SB (.310 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 3, 2 K's (.267 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 0 for 3, K (.271 BA)
Mario Songco - 0 for 2, BB (.143 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/llebdt

Ogden lost 12-9

BCG - 3 for 5, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 R (.324 BA)
Jerry Sands - 2 for 4, 3B, HR (14), 4 RBI, 2 R, BB, K (.348 BA)
JT Wise - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.324 BA)
Kyle Orr - 1 for 4, HR (3), RBI, R, 3 K's (.245 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 4, K (.196 BA)

Brett Wallach - 1.1 IP, 7 Hits, 7 R (6 ER), BB, K (7.15 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l2ue46

AZL lost 7-4

Nick Akins - 0 for 3, R, K, OF Assist, HBP (.339 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 1 for 4, R, K (.250 BA)
Jan Vazquez - 2 for 3, 2B, R, BB, E (.159 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/kugng4

Player of the Day - Jerry Sands, OF

Sands is up to a league-leading 14 home runs, 3 more than the next guy, and he's third in the league with a 1.103 OPS. The walks, the power, the low strikeouts, everything looks great. But I just can't shake the feeling that this is mostly a by-product of playing in the PL. Hopefully he proves me wrong.

Minor League Recap - 8/04/09

2009-08-04T22:46:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 6-5

Tony Abreu - 2 for 5, HR (8), 2 RBI, R (.345 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 5, 2 2B's, 2 RBI, SB (.290 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 5, K (.241 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mus5pv

Chattanooga played a doubleheader

Game 1 - Chattanooga lost 10-5

Lucas May - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.303 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 3, 2B, 2 RBI, K (.264 BA)

Chris Withrow - 3.1 IP, 4 Hits, 6 ER, 2 BB, 2 K's (16.20 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n597fz

Game 2 - Chattanooga lost 6-3

Javy Guerra - 2.1 IP, 6 Hits, 2 ER, 0 BB, 2 K's (4.50 ERA)
Victor Garate - 0.2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, 0 K's (2.05 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l4uyab

Inland Empire lost 5-3

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 2, 3B, R, 2 BB (.308 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 2, 2 RBI, BB, OF Assist (.298 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 3, RBI, 3 K's, 2 E's, HBP (.272 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, K (.246 BA)

Ronald Belisario - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (0.00 ERA)
Tim Sexton - 7 IP, 12 Hits, 3 R (1 ER), 0 BB, 2 K's (3.19 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/m5ug3y

Great Lakes lost 7-2

Dee Gordon - 0 for 5 (.311 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 4, K (.269 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 0 for 1, K (.285 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 3, 2 RBI (.147 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 2 for 3, 2B, BB, K (.273 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mg4scr

Ogden lost 9-8

Jerry Sands - 1 for 4, BB, 2 K's (.344 BA)
Blake Smith - 2 for 4, 2B, 2 R (.192 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mxptbm

AZL lost 2-1

Nick Akins - 1 for 3, RBI, BB, OF Assist (.348 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mlr7t3

Player of the Day - Tony Abreu, 2B

Abreu's back, healthy and hitting the hell out of the ball. In 21 games since the all star break, Tony is batting .412 with 5 home runs. His OPS is 1.001 overall and 1.104 against lefties. The downside is that he's 24 and currently blocked by Orlando Hudson, but when he's healthy, he's an offensive option for the middle infield.

Withrow promoted

2009-08-04T12:54:00.000-07:00

2007 first round pick Chris Withrow has been promoted to Double A Chattanooga. The 20 year old right-hander is among the California league leaders in strikeouts, averaging just under 11 strikeouts per 9 innings. Withrow is scheduled to start the first game of Chattanooga's doubleheader today, starting at 5:45 pm EST (2:45 pm PST).

Minor League Recap - 8/03/09

2009-08-03T21:33:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 3-1

Tony Abreu - 3 for 4, 2B, HR (7), RBI, R (.343 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 4, K, SB (.287 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, 3B, R (.275 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ngfl5t

Chattanooga won 12-11

Lucas May - 2 for 4, RBI, 2 R, BB, 2 K's (.311 BA)

James Adkins - 3.2 IP, 7 Hits, 7 R (5 ER), 2 BB, K (4.60 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lse455

Inland Empire did not play

Great Lakes won 10-8

Dee Gordon - 1 for 5 (.314 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 1 for 2, 2B, 4 R, 3 BB, K (.261 BA)
Kyle Russell - 3 for 5, 2B, 2 RBI, R, K (.269 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 1 for 3, RBI, R, 2 BB (.286 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 4, HR (1), 2 RBI, R, BB, K (.138 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/krkozw

Ogden won 7-6

BCG - 1 for 5, 2 R, 2 K's (.315 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 4, R, BB, K (.346 BA)
JT Wise - 2 for 4, HR (4), 3 RBI, 2 R, BB (.343 BA)
Kyle Orr - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, R, K (.244 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 3, RBI, BB, 2 K's (.167 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nh7v5q

Player of the Day - JT Wise, C

No doubt Tony Abreu had a great day, coming a triple short of the cycle, but you can't beat a 2 out, walk-off 3 run HR in the bottom of the 9th. Wise is posting some pretty extreme righty/lefty splits, destroying lefties (1.405 OPS) while struggling against righties (.684 OPS). He's already 23, so he'll need to move quickly to prove he's a real prospect.

Minor League Recap - 8/01/09

2009-08-01T22:31:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 5-3

Tony Abreu - 1 for 4, 2 K's (.336 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 4 (.294 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, K, E (.274 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/m5n62r

Chattanooga was rained out

Inland Empire won 8-3

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, R, 2 K's, 2 SB (.306 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 2, HR (18), 4 RBI, R, 2 BB, K, SB (.300 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 4, RBI (.277 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 3, BB, K, SB, E (.246 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lbq2eb

Great Lakes lost 5-2

Dee Gordon - 3 for 4, 2B, R, BB, K, CS, E (.316 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 3 for 4, 2B, R, BB (.283 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 4, RBI, 2 K's (.268 BA)

Ethan Martin - 3 IP, Hit, 5 R (2 ER), 4 BB, 4 K's (4.17 ERA)
Nathan Eovaldi - 4 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 4 BB, 2 K's (3.30 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l862mq

Ogden lost 8-7

BCG - 1 for 5, 2B, R (.316 BA)
Jerry Sands - 2 for 4, 2B, HR (13), 3 R, BB (.356 BA)
JT Wise - 2 for 5, RBI, K (.333 BA)
Blake Smith - 3 for 3, 2 2B's, R, 2 BB (.156 BA)

Javier Solano - 2 IP, 2 Hits, 2 ER, 2 BB, 3 K's (4.02 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lzmzt9

AZL lost 9-5

Nick Akins - 3 for 5, 2B, 3 RBI, 2 K's (.349 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 0 for 3, R, BB, K (.250 BA)

Bolivar Medina - 2.2 IP, 6 Hits, 6 R (2 ER), 0 BB, 4 K's (2.30 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/krdwst

Player of the Day - Jerry Sands, OF

Sands has been one of the best hitters in the Pioneer league this season, leading the circuit with 13 home runs and a 1.079 OPS. This comes after a disappointing debut to each the 2008 and 2009 seasons. Earlier this spring, Jerry tried his hand in the full season Midwest league and was overwhelmed, collecting just 2 hits in 17 at bats with 7 strike outs. So what can we make of this turnaround? Did he figure something out? Is it the profound effect the Pioneer league has on hitters? Only time will tell.

Minor League Recap - 7/31/09

2009-07-31T22:16:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 5-3

Tony Abreu - 1 for 3, R, BB (.339 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 4, 3B, R (.302 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, K (.272 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lr9dmp

Chattanooga won 9-8

Andrew Lambo - 1 for 6, 2 R (.266 BA)
Lucas May - 2 for 5, 2 RBI, R, BB, K, SB, CS (.306 BA)

Javy Guerra - 1.1 IP, 2 Hits, ER, BB, 0 K's (3.86 ERA)
Victor Garate - 2 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (2.13 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/m2oe7g

Inland Empire won 14-0

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 2, 3 R, 3 BB, K (.307 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 3 for 5, 2 2B's, HR (17), 4 RBI, 3 R, 2 K's (.299 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 2, 2 RBI, 2 R, 3 BB (.281 BA)

Mario Alvarez - 9 IP, 5 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, 12 K's (4.58 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nwjqvz

Great Lakes won 4-3

Dee Gordon - 2 for 4, R, K, SB, CS (.312 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 2 for 4, HR (9), RBI, R, K (.276 BA)

Justin Miller - 6 IP, 5 Hits, 3 R (2 ER), BB, 5 K's (4.70 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mq2u8t

Ogden won 4-1

BCG - 0 for 3, RBI (.320 BA)
Jerry Sands - 2 for 4, 2B, 2 R, K (.352 BA)
JT Wise - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI (.328 BA)
Blake Smith - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.095 BA)

Brett Wallach - 2.1 IP, Hit, ER, 3 BB, 3 K's (2.70 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lc56ds

AZL lost 5-3

Nick Akins - 1 for 5, 2B, 2 K's (.337 BA)
Michael Pericht - 1 for 4, BB, 2 K's (.254 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 1 for 5 (.266 BA)
Jan Vazquez - 1 for 5, R, K (.122 BA)

Roberto Feliciano - 3.1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's (1.25 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ks6b5f

Player of the Day - Mario Alvarez, RHP

Not really a prospect anymore, Alvarez has already had a good fastball. He was protected on the 40 man rosters a few years ago, leading to Wesley Wright's exodus from the organization. While Wright is still in the Astros' pen, Alvarez is 25 and still in A ball. He's not striking out as many batters as he should be, though his other peripherals are decent. A move to the bullpen and a quick ascent is his only chance at making the majors.

Minor League Recap - 7/30/09

2009-07-30T23:04:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 23-6

Tony Abreu - 2 for 3, 2B, RBI, 2 R, BB, K (.339 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 5, 2 RBI, 2 R, BB (.251 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 4 for 6, 2 3B's, 6 RBI, R, K (.303 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, 2 R (.269 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 2 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, K (2.89 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/la8aaq

Chattanooga won 3-2

Andrew Lambo - 2 for 4, 2B, RBI, R, E (.268 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI, R, 2 K's (.305 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mt3znm

Inland Empire lost 5-4

Trayvon Robinson - 3 for 4, R, BB, K, 5 SB (.306 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 4, BB (.295 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 2, RBI, R, BB, K, HBP (.279 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, R, 2 K's (.245 BA)

Chris Withrow - 3 IP, 4 Hits, ER, BB, 3 K's (4.69 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lwhue3

Great Lakes won 11-10

Dee Gordon - 4 for 5, 2B, 2 R, 2 BB, K, 2 SB (.310 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 1 for 6, 2 RBI, BB, 3 K's (.275 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 5, 2 R, 2 BB, 2 K's (.276 BA)
Mario Songco - 2 for 6, 2B, 2 RBI, 3 K's (.148 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lco4tr

Ogden played a doubleheader

Game 1 - Ogden won 5-0

BCG - 1 for 4, 3B, 2 K's (.322 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 2, 2B, RBI, R, BB (.348 BA)
JT Wise - 0 for 3, 2 K's (.333 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 3, RBI, 2 K's (.105 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nocbpm

Game 2 - Ogden lost 5-4

BCG - 2 for 4, 2B (.327 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 3, HR (12), RBI, R, BB, 2 K's (.348 BA)
Kyle Orr - 1 for 3, RBI (.234 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/m88jry

AZL lost 5-2

Nick Akins - 0 for 3, BB (.343 BA)
Michael Pericht - 0 for 4, K (.254 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 0 for 3, BB (.265 BA)

Beyker Fructuoso - 3 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 3 K's (7.78 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lzwm9f

Players of the Day - Trayvon Robinson, OF and Dee Gordon, SS

Robinson has been hot in July, batting over .320 with 13 stolen bases for the month. Adding 5 today increases his league lead. But if you're talking about stealing bases, you can't forget about Dee Gordon. Flash Jr increased his organizational lead to 58 today and has been unconscious at the plate. He has 5 straight multi-hit efforts, going 12 for his last 22. He's batted over .300 every month except May and his OPS is the same vs righties and lefties (.777). Power is the only missing piece of his game, but with his amazing speed, he's a good bet to leg out plenty of doubles and post double-digit triples.

Fool me once...

2009-07-30T22:17:00.000-07:00

The Dodgers have announced the trade of a 22 year old power hitting corner infielder and a 21 year old pitching prospect for a 32 year old closer. The Dodgers have a definite need in the bullpen and this deal helps solidify their staff.

Date: July 4th, 1998

Kinda creepy, isn't it? 11 years and 26 days ago, the Dodgers traded Paul Konerko and Dennys Reyes for Jeff Shaw. LA filled an immediate need by dealing from their farm system. They acquired a serviceable player who helped them for a few seasons, but ended up trading away a guy who could have hit in the middle of their lineup for several years. Now, Josh Bell isn't the prospect Paul Konerko was, but he has considerable upside and could have helped the club as soon as next season.

But wait, there's more!

Ned Colletti has once again dealt his best hitting prospect for less than what he's worth. Last season, I was absolutely shocked to hear that the Dodgers gave Cleveland catcher Carlos Santana, in the midst of his breakout season, and right-hander Jon Meloan for third baseman Casey Blake. On the surface, it looks bad, but it's much worse once you realize the Dodgers already had Blake DeWitt fully capable of handling the hot corner every day. Add to that DeWitt's gold glove caliber defense and Casey Blake's age (34) and impending free agency, and you would have thought it was Ned Beatty dealing with angry rednecks, not Ned Colletti dealing with the Indians. To then add insult to injury by re-signing Blake through his age 37 season, the Dodgers are throwing money away by developing a dependency on veterans at the expense of young, major league ready talent.

By re-signing Casey Blake instead of giving the every day job to Blake DeWitt, the Dodgers are betting that Blake the former will be $16 million better than Blake the latter. That's to say, instead of spending $1.5 million on DeWitt over the next 3 years, they're spending $17.5 million on Casey Blake. Given their respective ages, it's very likely that Blake DeWitt will improve and Casey Blake will decline. Therefore, the much more logical decision would have been to give DeWitt the job and bet on his defense not suddenly collapsing. But Ned loves him some veterans. And thanks to Ned's servicetimeophilia, we have a 35 year old Casey Blake still blocking DeWitt and the Indians have one of the best prospects in baseball.

And now we have the Sherrill trade. In fairness to Colletti, Sherrill is having a good season and is cost-controlled for the next 2.3 years. But he's a 32 year old relief pitcher whose seen his strikeout rate drop each of the past 2 years. And when you have a power-hitting, walk-drawing 22 year old who's OPSing near .900 in the Southern league, you don't give him up for such a volatile asset, regardless of Sherrill's save totals or ERA this season. Relievers don't age well and Sherrill isn't presumed to be an exception to that rule. If his K rate keeps dropping, he'll be relegated to LOOGY duty, which would make the deal even more obviously lop-sided.

The piece de resistance in this whole mess was Colletti's assertion that he doesn't "(look) to October." He looks "to tonight." He worries about "months from now later." It's that type of foresight that has led to Ned making knee-jerk moves (like the Pierre and Blake signings) and overpaying/over-acquiring at the deadline. This should be the last piece of evidence that McCourt needs to remove Colletti from his post as General Manager and install him as Chief Mustache Ride Engineer.

Minor League Recap - 7/29/09

2009-07-29T23:19:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 6-2

Tony Abreu - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.331 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 3, BB, K (.252 BA)

Cory Wade - 0.1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K's (4.15 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kq65gc

Chattanooga lost 2-1

Andrew Lambo - 1 for 3, HBP (.265 BA)
Josh Bell - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.296 BA)

James Adkins - 7.1 IP, 4 Hits, 2 ER, 3 BB, 4 K's (4.33 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lmmwkx

Inland Empire won 3-1

Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 3, 2 BB, 2 K's, SB (.302 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 3, 2 BB (.296 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 4, BB, 3 K's (.278 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 3, 2B, 2 R, BB, 2 K's (.248 BA)

Tim Sexton - 8 IP, 4 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 4 K's (3.15 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mskoda

Great Lakes won 4-2

Dee Gordon - 2 for 4, HR (3), RBI, R, CS (.304 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 2 for 2, 2 2B's, R, 2 BB, 2 SB (.265 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 0 for 3, 2 K's, HBP (.277 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 4, 2 RBI (.277 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 3 (.125 BA)

Geison Aguasviva - 3 IP, 3 Hits, ER, BB, K (1.47 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, 0 K's (3.70 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mh3vue

Ogden was rained out

AZL did not play

Player of the Day - Tim Sexton, RHP

What a difference a year makes. After looking like an overslot miss in 2008, Sexton has been nothing short of brilliant in 2009. Tim's shown the same great control, but drastically reduced his home run rate and increased his groundball rate. He's not a strikeout pitcher, so he'll have to keep the ball down to reach the majors as a back of the rotation guy.

Minor League Recap - 7/28/09

2009-07-28T23:07:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 6-2

Tony Abreu - 1 for 5, RBI, SB (.342 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 2 for 4, 2 R (.251 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 3, BB, SB (.288 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nfbeac

Chattanooga lost 5-4

Andrew Lambo - 0 for 5, 2 K's (.265 BA)
Josh Bell - 2 for 7, 2B (.300 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 4, 2 BB, K (.307 BA)

Javy Guerra - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (3.48 ERA)
Victor Garate - 1.2 IP, Hit, 2 ER, 2 BB, 3 K's (2.23 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l97jef

Inland Empire lost 6-4

Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 3, RBI, 2 BB (.304 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's (.298 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 4, 2 K's, HBP (.281 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.248 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lfgzsj

Great Lakes won 8-5

Dee Gordon - 2 for 4, 2 R, SB, E (.302 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 2 for 2, 2B, RBI, 3 R, BB, 3 SB, HBP (.261 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 2, 2 K's (.268 BA)
Mario Songco - 0 for 2, 2 K's (.111 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 2 for 4, 2B, HR (8), 3 RBI, R (.279 BA)

Cole St Clair - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (3.86 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lnow89

Ogden won 8-5

BCG - 1 for 5, 2 RBI, R, K (.324 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 4, R, BB, K (.346 BA)
Kyle Orr - 0 for 4, R, BB, 2 K's (.230 BA)
Blake Smith - 0 for 4, R (.086 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ktrsjq

AZL won 9-7

Stetson Banks - 2 for 4, HR (1), 3 RBI, 2 R, BB, SB (.227 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 4, HR (6), 3 RBI, R (.354 BA)
Michael Pericht - 1 for 2, 2 BB (.270 BA)

Carl Webster - 4 IP, 7 Hits, 3 R (2 ER), 3 BB, 6 K's (2.32 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l8hzlw

Player of the Day - Jaime Pedroza, 2B

Jaime's season has gotten progressively worse, though he collected his 26th double and 29th stolen base tonight. He's also drawn an impressive 54 walks in 98 games. The downside is his OPS has been under .750 over the past 2 months and he's already struck out 114 times, which is the fourth highest total in the league. If he can get the strikeouts under control, Pedroza should prove to be ready for a Double A assignment in 2010.

Minor League Recap - 7/19/09

2009-07-20T00:53:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 17-8

Tony Abreu - 4 for 6, 3B, HR (4), 6 RBI, 2 R, K (.312 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, 3 RBI (.264 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 2 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's (4.26 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lnecwj

Chattanooga lost 6-1

Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4 (.274 BA)
Josh Bell - 1 for 3, BB (.278 BA)
Lucas May - 0 for 4, K (.295 BA)

Victor Garate - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, K (2.02 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nnpmyr

Inland Empire lost 8-5

Preston Mattingly - 1 for 4, 2B, R, BB, K (.260 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 5, 3 K's (.305 BA)
Pedro Baez - 2 for 4, 2B, R, 2 K's, SB (.286 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 5, 2 K's (.290 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 4, R, BB, K (.304 BA)

Tim Sexton - 6.2 IP, 6 Hits, 3 ER, BB, 0 K's (3.31 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n7o8yq

Great Lakes lost 9-5

Dee Gordon - 0 for 4, BB, 2 K's, CS (.296 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 0 for 3, BB, K (.273 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.272 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 2 for 4, RBI, R (.270 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 4, RBI, R, K (.125 BA)
Nick Buss - 1 for 4, HR (8), 2 RBI, R, 2 K's (.269 BA)

Justin Miller - 4 IP, 9 Hits, 5 ER, 3 BB, K (4.53 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l2tqbw

Ogden won 5-4

BCG - 1 for 4, HR (9), 2 RBI, R, K (.286 BA)
Jerry Sands - 2 for 4, 2 HR (8), 2 RBI, 2 R (.392 BA)
Kyle Orr - 1 for 4, K (.246 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/m6hsmq

AZL did not play

Player of the Day - Jerry Sands, OF

The 25th rounder from a year ago has flourished in the hitter friendly Pioneer league after struggling in the GCL during his debut. He's second in the league in batting, fourth in OBP and second in SLG. His 8 home runs are also tied for second. He's drastically lowered his strikeout total and seems like a different hitter than the guy who went 2 for 17 with 7 strikeouts earlier this year with Great Lakes. Hopefully it's not all the league's doing.

Minor League Recap - 7/18/09

2009-07-18T22:42:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 9-8

Tony Abreu - 1 for 3, 2 R, BB, K, E (.282 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, R, HBP (.261 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ktycfc

Chattanooga played a doubleheader

Game 1 - Chattanooga won 11-2

Josh Bell - 0 for 4, BB, K (.279 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 3 for 4, HR (10), 2 RBI, R, PO (.277 BA)

James Adkins - 6 IP, 4 Hits, R (0 ER), 3 BB, 4 K's (4.76 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nvmyeu

Game 2 - Chattanooga lost 2-1

Josh Bell - 0 for 2, BB, K (.277 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 3, 2B, K (.305 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 3, K (.274 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/n2sflx

Inland Empire lost 7-5

Preston Mattingly - 1 for 3, R, 2 BB, K, SB (.260 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 5, 2 K's, OF Assist (.310 BA)
Pedro Baez - 2 for 5, 2 RBI, R, 3 K's (.283 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 3, K, HBP (.295 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 3, 2B, RBI, R, BB, K, OF Assist (.308 BA)

Hong Chih Kuo - 1 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/my9qyu

Great Lakes won 2-1

Dee Gordon - 1 for 3, BB, 2 K's, 2 SB (.299 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 1 for 3, BB, CS (.267 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 3, R, BB, 2 K's, SB (.275 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 2 for 4, K (.267 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 4, K (.275 BA)
Nick Buss - 1 for 2, HR (7), RBI, R (.269 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/kmy7lz

Ogden won 8-2

BCG - 2 for 5, 2 HR (8), 4 RBI, 2 R (.287 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 5, 2B, K, E (.387 BA)
Blake Smith - 0 for 4, RBI, R, HBP (.071 BA)
JT Wise - 1 for 5, R, 2 K's (.351 BA)

Steven Ames - 2.1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 6 K's (1.54 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lsz9wd

AZL lost 14-1

Nick Akins - 1 for 2, 2B (.388 BA)
Jan Vazquez - 0 for 2, K (.111 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lds73h

Player of the Day - Brian Cavazos-Galvez, OF

That's 6 home runs in his last 7 games. He had a string of 4 games in a row with a HR from the 10th to the 13th. The former Lobo was the 12th round selection of the Dodgers this June, finishing his college career with 15 HR as a senior; more than twice as many as anyone else on the team. BCG has passed former teammate Mario Songco for the Pioneer leagu lead.

Minor League Recap - 7/17/09

2009-07-18T01:42:00.002-07:00

Albuquerque won 12-3

Tony Abreu - 3 for 5, 2 RBI, R (.279 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 5, RBI, R, 2 K's (.258 BA)

Eric Stults - 6 IP, 8 Hits, 3 ER, BB, 5 K's (4.80 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kj9brj

Chattanooga was postponed

Inland Empire won 6-4

Preston Mattingly - 2 for 5, 2B, RBI, SB (.259 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 3 for 4, 2B, HR (12), RBI, 2 R, CS (.314 BA)
Pedro Baez - 1 for 4, RBI (.281 BA)
Steven Caseres - 3 for 4, R (.299 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 2, 2B, HR (15), 2 RBI, 2 R, 2 BB, OF Assist (.308 BA)

Josh Wall - 6 IP, 5 Hits, 4 R (1 ER), 4 BB, 4 K's (5.29 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mvucvb

Great Lakes won 7-5

Dee Gordon - 1 for 4, RBI, R, BB (.299 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 2 for 4, 2 2B's, 2 RBI, R, BB, K (.266 BA)
Mario Songco - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's, HBP (.083 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 3, BB, K, HBP (.278 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 0 for 3, R, 2 BB, K (.264 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 2, 2B, RBI, 2 R, BB (.276 BA)
Nick Buss - 2 for 4, RBI, R, K, OF Assist (.267 BA)

Geison Aguasviva - 2.1 IP, 4 Hits, 4 ER, 2 BB, 3 K's (1.57 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 0.2 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (2.79 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lq6usq

Ogden won 5-4

Jerry Sands - 1 for 3, 2 BB, K (.398 BA)
Blake Smith - 0 for 5, 3 K's, E (.100 BA)
JT Wise - 2 for 3, 2B, HR (2), RBI, 2 R, K (.375 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lnk7dl

AZL won 10-1

Nick Akins - 4 for 5, 2 2B's, 3 RBI, 2 R, K (.385 BA)
Michael Pericht - 0 for 4, 3 K's, HBP (.261 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 2 for 4, 2B, R, 2 K's, HBP (.222 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/l56geb

Player of the Day - Trayvon Robinson, OF

Tray's on a roll. With 5 multi-hit efforts in his last 6 games, he's driven his July batting average up to .410 with an OPS of 1.062. He's walking more, striking out less and continuing to hit for career best power. I'm still skeptical because he's doing all this in the Cal league, but you got to give him credit for putting up some impressive numbers nevertheless.

Minor League Recap - 7/16/09

2009-07-16T22:24:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 4-2

Tony Abreu - 1 for 4, RBI, K (.254 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 4 (.256 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K's (5.06 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lhpsfv

Chattanooga won 10-6

Josh Bell - 3 for 5, 2B, HR (9), 3 RBI, 2 R, K (.283 BA)
Lucas May - 0 for 5, 2 K's (.304 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, HR (9), RBI, 2 R, BB, K (.271 BA)

Javy Guerra - 0.2 IP, 2 Hits, 2 ER, BB, 0 K's (5.68 ERA)
Victor Garate - 0.1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K's (2.08 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kwtu8z

Inland Empire won 2-1

Preston Mattingly - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's, CS (.256 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 3, R, SB, PO (.309 BA)
Pedro Baez - 0 for 2, RBI, K (.281 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 2, BB, K (.304 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ncmvsl

Great Lakes won 9-5

Dee Gordon - 3 for 4, RBI, 2 R, BB, 2 SB (.299 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 3 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, BB (.263 BA)
Mario Songco - 0 for 5, 2 K's (.111 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 4, 2 K's, CS, HBP (.280 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 1 for 4, 2B, R, K (.266 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 3 for 4, 2B, 3B, HR (8), 2 RBI, 3 R, K (.274 BA)

JonMichael Redding - 6 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 3 BB, 7 K's (4.47 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's (2.89 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kwc4gl

Ogden lost 3-2

BCG - 1 for 4, K, SB, CS (.271 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 4, K (.400 BA)
Blake Smith - 0 for 2, 2 BB, K (.200 BA)

Javier Solano - 3 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, BB, 4 K's (3.86 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mzqpa4

AZL lost 6-3

Stetson Banks - 1 for 3, R, BB, 2 K's, SB (.188 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 4, 3B, 2 K's, E (.350 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 0 for 3, 2 K's (.195 BA)
Jan Vazquez - 0 for 3, 2 K's, 2 E's (.120 BA)

Dan Danielson - 3 IP, 6 Hits, 3 ER, 2 BB, 4 K's (3.86 ERA)
Bolivar Medina - 3 IP, 4 Hits, 0 R, BB, 3 K's (1.53 ERA)
Beyker Fructuoso - 2 IP, 4 Hits, 3 R (2 ER), BB, 2 K's (6.39 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kr2dgr

Players of the Day - Josh Bell, 3B and Alfredo Silverio, OF

Both players came a hit away from the cycle, where Bell missed the most difficult and Silverio missed the easiest. Bell is fresh off an MVP performance in the Southern League all star game and is making a case for a promotion to Triple A. Silverio has been hot this month, batting .310 with 4 home runs in 15 games. The High A outfiend is somewhat crowded and Fredo definitely isn't ready for Double A.

Minor League Recap - 7/15/09

2009-07-16T00:26:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque was off due to the all star break

Chattanooga won 2-0

Josh Bell - 1 for 4 (.277 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 3, 2B, RBI, BB, K (.317 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4 (.271 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/m32f9m

Inland Empire won 7-6

Preston Mattingly - 1 for 5, 2B, R, 3 K's (.259 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 3, R, 2 BB, SB (.306 BA)
Pedro Baez - 0 for 4, 2 RBI, 2 K's (.283 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI (.292 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 4, K, OF Assist (.305 BA)

Chris Withrow - 5 IP, 4 Hits, 3 ER, 3 BB, 6 K's (4.90 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ml2ysv

Great Lakes won 11-1

Dee Gordon - 2 for 5, 2 R, SB (.294 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 4, RBI, R, K, HBP (.250 BA)
Kyle Russell - 2 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, R, K (.280 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 1 for 3, 2 RBI, R, BB (.266 BA)

Nathan Eovaldi - 5 IP, 4 Hits, ER, 2 BB, 5 K's (3.65 ERA)
Ethan Martin - 4 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 7 K's (4.37 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mjghq5

Ogden won 4-1

BCG - 0 for 4, K (.272 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 3, R, BB (.407 BA)
JT Wise - 1 for 4, R, K (.345 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 3, HR (1), RBI, R, BB (.333 BA)
Kyle Orr - 2 for 4, 2 2B's, 2 RBI, R, K (.277 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lf2xs7

AZL lost 4-3

Stetson Banks - 0 for 4, R, BB, 2 K's (.178 BA)
Michael Pericht - 0 for 3, RBI, 2 K's (.286 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 1 for 4, 2B, R, K (.211 BA)

Rubby De La Rosa - 5 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, BB, 5 K's (3.07 ERA)
Roberto Feliciano - 3 IP, 4 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 4 K's (1.98 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mvoqv3

Player of the Day - Ethan Martin, RHP

Nothing wrong with Eovaldi's performance, but it's great to see Martin have such a dominant outing. Allowing just 1 baserunner over 4 innings, issuing no walks and striking out the side swinging in each of the last 2 innings deserves a standing ovation. Well done, Ethan, I hope you can keep it up.

No minor league recap today

2009-07-14T23:15:00.001-07:00

All Dodgers' affiliates have the day off. Tomorrow, I'll try to get a review of the Dodgers' season up to the all star break posted.

Minor League Recap - 7/13/09

2009-07-13T22:08:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque did not play

Chattanooga is off for the Southern league's all star game. A few Lookouts played in the game

Andrew Lambo - 3 for 4, 2B, 2 R
Josh Bell - 2 for 5, HR, 2 RBI, 2 R
Lucas May - 0 for 1

Matthew Sartor - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K

http://tinyurl.com/muumfq

Inland Empire lost 15-1

Preston Mattingly - 2 for 4, 2B, R, K, SB (.260 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 3, HBP (.303 BA)
Pedro Baez - 1 for 4, 2 K's, E (.287 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 4 (.292 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 4, E (.309 BA)

Tim Sexton - 3.1 IP, 11 Hits, 10 R (7 ER), BB, K (3.26 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kuduso

Great Lakes won 8-0

Dee Gordon - 1 for 4, 2 R, 2 BB, 3 SB (.293 BA)
Nick Buss - 3 for 4, 2B, 3B, 3 RBI, 2 R (.264 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 2 for 5, 2 RBI (.266 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 4, BB, 2 K's, SB (.278 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 5, 2B, R, 2 K's (.268 BA)

Justin Miller - 6 IP, 3 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, 4 K's (4.26 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (3.06 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nobrza

Ogden lost 8-6

BCG - 1 for 5, HR (6), RBI, R, K, E (.284 BA)
Jerry Sands - 3 for 4, 2 2B's, RBI, R (.410 BA)
JT Wise - 1 for 4, RBI, R (.360 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/ll6za5

AZL lost 8-2

Michael Pericht - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 K's (.308 BA)
Melvin Ray - 0 for 4, 4 K's (.107 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 0 for 3, K (.206 BA)

Carlos Frias - 5 IP, 5 Hits, 3 ER, 4 BB, 5 K's (5.75 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mhrr3h

Players of the Day - Andrew Lambo, OF and Josh Bell, 3B

Hats off to these two. Lambo and Bell combined to collect 5 of the North division's 11 hits, with Bell hitting the only HR of the game. Bell's power has cooled in contrast to the weather, though he's posting a .436 OBP this month with as many walks as strikeouts (8). Lambo has gotten hotter, batting .314 for the month with 3 doubles and a homer. Both are holding their own against older competition and could find themselves in trade talks as the deadline approaches.

Minor League Recap - 7/12/09

2009-07-13T00:41:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 8-7

Tony Abreu - 1 for 4, HR (3), 2 RBI, R, BB, K (.254 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 5, R, K (.259 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 5, K (.288 BA)

Jason Schmidt - 5 IP, 7 Hits, 4 R (3 ER), BB, 5 K's (4.18 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ncjt4q

Chattanooga did not play

Inland Empire won 8-5

Preston Mattingly - 2 for 5, 2B, R, 3 K's, CS (.257 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 3 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, R (.303 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 4, HR (14), 2 RBI, R, BB, 2 K's (.310 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 5, 2 RBI, R, 2 K's (.293 BA)

Steven Johnson - 6.1 IP, 9 Hits, 3 ER, 4 BB, 4 K's (3.82 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ne84gg

Great Lakes lost 7-3

Dee Gordon - 0 for 4, RBI (.293 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 1 for 3, 2B, R, BB, K (.264 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 3, R, BB, 2 K's (.281 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nhkcfq

Ogden won 6-4

BCG - 1 for 4, HR (5), RBI, R, K (.289 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 4, HR (7), 4 RBI, R, 2 K's (.370 BA)
JT Wise - 1 for 3, BB, 2 K's (.381 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nu9tpt

AZL lost 10-2

Nick Akins - 0 for 3 (.357 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 1 for 1, 2B, R (.226 BA)
Blake Smith - 0 for 4, K (.227 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lllb8v

Player of the Day - Trayvon Robinson, OF

After batting just .262 during June, Tray has turned it on in July and is batting .354 for the month. His 25 doubles have him tied for second in the league and his 29 steals are best in the circuit. I'm still not sold on his production, but Robinson has definitely made strides in his production and development.

Minor League Recap - 7/11/09

2009-07-11T22:32:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 7-2

Tony Abreu - 2 for 5, 2B, 3B, 4 RBI, 2 R, K (.255 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 5, 2 RBI (.260 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 5, 2 K's (.292 BA)

Eric Stults - 6 IP, 5 Hits, 2 ER, 2 BB, 8 K's (5.00 ERA)
Hong Chih Kuo - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (4.50 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kn49ts

Chattanooga won 7-3

Josh Bell - 2 for 4, 2 2B's, R, K, 2 E's (.278 BA)
Lucas May - 2 for 3, 2 R, BB, K (.316 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 1, K (.272 BA)

James Adkins - 0.1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K's (5.09 ERA)
Victor Garate - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (2.10 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/m8zldv

Inland Empire lost 11-8

Preston Mattingly - 0 for 1, RBI, K (.254 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 3 for 5, 2B, 2 RBI, R, K, CS (.298 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 2 for 5, 3B, HR (13), 2 RBI, R, 2 K's, E (.311 BA)
Steven Caseres - 2 for 4, 2 2B's, 2 R, BB, K (.295 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mrrcoy

Great Lakes lost 6-4

Dee Gordon - 0 for 5, 3 K's (.297 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 1 for 3, 2 R, HBP (.263 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 3, 3B, RBI, BB (.284 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 4, R, E (.272 BA)

Geison Aguasviva - 1.2 IP, 3 Hits, 0 R, BB, 0 K's (0.34 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lbvchl

Ogden won 10-4

BCG - 2 for 5, 2B, HR (4), RBI, R (.291 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 4, RBI, R, BB (.392 BA)
Mario Songco - 2 for 4, 3B, RBI, 2 R, K (.377 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lxgt96

AZL won 4-3

Nick Akins - 0 for 3, R, BB (.377 BA)
Blake Smith - 1 for 3, R, K, HBP (.276 BA)
Michael Pericht - 0 for 3, R, BB, K (.314 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 1 for 3, BB, K, SB (.200 BA)

Bolivar Medina - 4 IP, 3 Hits, 3 ER, 2 BB, 3 K's (1.84 ERA)
Dan Danielson - 5 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 6 K's (3.10 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mn4rfm

Player of the Day - Dan Danielson, RHP

Still just 20 years old, DD was the 7th round pick back in 2007. He hasn't progressed much, if at all, since he's spent all 3 pro seasons in rookie ball. He's showing some signs of life this season, with 29 strikeouts and only 3 walks in 20.1 innings. He has, however, given up 4 home runs in 5 appearances. Dan has a chance to develop, but he needs to get moving already.

Minor League Recap - 7/10/09

2009-07-10T22:35:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 3-0

Tony Abreu - 1 for 4, 2 K's (.240 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 4, 2B, K (.261 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 4, 2 K's, CS (.296 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/l5le8c

Chattanooga lost 4-3

Josh Bell - 1 for 4, K (.274 BA)
Lucas May - 1 for 3, R, BB (.307 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, RBI (.272 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nzoyql

Inland Empire lost 4-0

Preston Mattingly - 1 for 5, 2B, 2 K's (.255 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 3, 2 BB, K (.293 BA)
Pedro Baez - 1 for 4, 2 K's, E (.288 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 3, BB (.292 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 3, BB, CS (.309 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/m57ud4

Great Lakes won 7-6

Dee Gordon - 1 for 5, 3B, R (.301 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 0 for 4, R, BB (.262 BA)
Kyle Russell - 2 for 5, HR (21), 2 RBI, 2 R, K (.283 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 2 for 4, HR (7), RBI, 2 R (.272 BA)

Cole St Clair - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, K (3.24 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lbpd65

Ogden lost 6-4

Brian Cavazos-Galvez - 2 for 5, HR (3), 2 RBI, R, 2 K's, CS (.284 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 4, K (.414 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 4, K (.369 BA)
JT Wise - 1 for 4 (.389 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mgp4ug

AZL won 11-10

Nick Akins - 2 for 4, 3B, 3 RBI, R, BB, 2 K's (.400 BA)
Blake Smith - 3 for 6, 2 RBI, R, K (.267 BA)
Michael Pericht - 1 for 4, 2B, RBI, R, 3 K's, HBP (.444 BA)
Stetson Banks - 2 for 5, 2B, 3B, RBI, R, SB, OF Assist (.152 BA)

Rubby De La Rosa - 3 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, BB, 5 K's (4.66 ERA)
Beyker Fructuoso - 2.1 IP, 7 Hits, 6 R (5 ER), 0 BB, 3 K's (5.91 ERA)
Pedro Feliciano - 2.2 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 2 BB, 2 K's (1.69 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nryodp

Player of the Day - Kyle Russell, OF

Russell clubbed his 21st home run today, which is 6 better than the next guy, Cubs' 3B Josh Vitters. While he's also tops in the league in SLG and second in OPS, I'm still skeptical about how much he'll succeed at higher levels, if at all. Kyle has already struck out an astonishing 110 times in just over 300 at bats. And before you compare him to Adam Dunn, remember that Dunn spent his age 19 season in the Midwest league and struck out less than 20% of the time.

Minor League Recap - 7/09/09

2009-07-09T22:05:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 4-2

Tony Abreu - 1 for 3, 2B, BB (.239 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 4, K, OF Assist (.297 BA)

Hong Chih Kuo - 1 IP, Hit, ER, BB, 0 K's (9.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ndrzyv

Chattanooga lost 3-0

Josh Bell - 1 for 4, 2B, K (.275 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.273 BA)

Javy Guerra - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, K (3.18 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lx7jq8

Inland Empire lost 1-0

Preston Mattingly - 1 for 4, K, SB (.256 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 4, K, CS (.296 BA)
Pedro Baez - 2 for 4 (.288 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 4, 2 K's (.291 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 4, E (.309 BA)

Chris Withrow - 5 IP, 3 Hits, R (0 ER), 3 BB, 4 K's (4.86 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lbeqav

Great Lakes lost 4-2

Dee Gordon - 0 for 4, K (.303 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 2 for 4, K (.266 BA)
Kyle Russell - 1 for 4, 2 K's, SB (.282 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 4, HR (6), RBI, R, K (.269 BA)

Ethan Martin - 4 IP, 5 Hits, 3 ER, 3 BB, 8 K's (4.64 ERA)
Nathan Eovaldi - 4 IP, 4 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 3 K's (3.80 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lnfth8

Ogden won 4-3

Brian Cavazos-Galvez - 2 for 4, RBI, SB, CS (.275 BA)
Jerry Sands - 0 for 3, BB, 2 K's (.439 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 3, R, 2 K's, HBP (.377 BA)
Kyle Orr - 2 for 4, RBI, R, K (.257 BA)

Brett Wallach - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n38ply

AZL did not play

Player of the Day - Chris Withrow, RHP

Withrow has another solid outing, dropping his ERA back under 5. Not as many strikeouts as last time and still too many walks, but you can't argue with no earned runs. Chris just needs more confidence when facing lefties and he should be ready for Double A.

Minor League Recap - 7/08/09

2009-07-08T21:49:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 11-7

Tony Abreu - 3 for 6, 2 2B's, RBI, 3 R (.233 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 5, R, 2 K's, HBP (.261 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 5, HR (5), 6 RBI, 2 R, BB (.299 BA)

Josh Lindblom - 3.2 IP, 8 Hits, 5 ER, 4 BB, 4 K's (5.59 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/m5g3qp

Chattanooga won 11-5

Josh Bell - 1 for 3, 2 R, 2 BB (.275 BA)
Lucas May - 3 for 4, 2B, 5 RBI (.306 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 5, RBI, R, 2 K's (.276 BA)

Victor Garate - 2 IP, Hit, 0 R, BB, 3 K's (2.16 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nqbxmf

Inland Empire won 3-0

Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, 2 K's, CS (.256 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, 2B, R, 2 K's (.294 BA)
Pedro Baez - 2 for 4, R (.285 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 3, 2B, R, BB, 2 K's (.292 BA)

Tim Sexton - 6.1 IP, 6 Hits, 0 R, BB, 6 K's (2.72 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ko5d5u

Great Lakes won 12-3

Dee Gordon - 2 for 5, RBI, 3 R, BB, K (.306 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 1 for 4, HR (11), 4 RBI, 2 R, 2 BB, K (.262 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 1 for 5, R, BB, K (.262 BA)
Kyle Russell - 2 for 5, 3B, HR (20), 4 RBI, 2 R, 2 K's (.282 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 3 for 5, 2B, RBI, R (.270 BA)

Justin Miller - 7 IP, 7 Hits, 2 ER, 2 BB, 7 K's (4.53 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/npecov

Ogden won 19-2

Jerry Sands - 2 for 4, HR (6), 5 RBI, 2 R, K (.460 BA)
Mario Songco - 3 for 5, 2 2B's, 2 RBI, R, BB, K (.379 BA)
JT Wise - 3 for 6, HR (1), 4 RBI, 2 R (.429 BA)

Javier Solano - 1 IP, Hit, ER, 0 BB, 2 K's (5.68 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nqkxry

AZL lost 13-0

Nick Akins - 0 for 2 (.391 BA)
Blake Smith - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.111 BA)
Jan Vazquez - 1 for 1 (.105 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 0 for 3, E (.185 BA)

Carlos Frias - 2 IP, 9 Hits, 8 ER, BB, K (5.87 ERA)
Amauri Guzman - 2 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/njfpjs

Player of the Day - Tim Sexton, RHP

Sexton, whose arguably been the Dodgers best minor league pitcher this year, continued his dominant 2009 performance with 6.1 shutout innings to lower his ERA to 2.72, second in the California league. His walks and home runs allowed are down, his strikeouts are up. I would like to see Tim promoted to Double A and watch how he reacts to facing better competition.

Minor League Recap - 7/07/09

2009-07-07T23:32:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 5-4

Tony Abreu - 1 for 5, HR (2), 2 RBI, R (.189 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 3 for 4, BB, E (.265 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 3, 2B, 2 BB (.294 BA)

Jason Schmidt - 6 IP, 7 Hits, 4 ER, BB, 6 K's (3.95 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mll6ah

Chattanooga was rained out

Inland Empire won 7-4

Preston Mattingly - 0 for 5, 2 K's (.260 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 4, RBI, BB, SB (.294 BA)
Pedro Baez - 0 for 5, RBI, K (.282 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 4, HR (12), RBI, 2 R, BB, K (.313 BA)

Steven Johnson - 5 IP, 6 Hits, 2 ER, 2 BB, 4 K's (3.79 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mlb5as

Great Lakes lost 4-0

Dee Gordon - 0 for 4, K, CS, 2 E's (.305 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 1, 3 BB (.280 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 1 for 3, 2B (.264 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mx8tnf

Ogden lost 4-3

Jerry Sands - 1 for 4, E (.458 BA)
Mario Songco - 2 for 3, 2B, HR (6), 2 RBI, R (.358 BA)
JT Wise - 1 for 4, R, K (.375 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mbcet9

AZL won 3-2

Nick Akins - 1 for 3, K, HBP (.409 BA)
Blake Smith - 0 for 1, R, 2 BB, K, HBP (.200 BA)
Michael Pericht - 1 for 3, HR (3), 2 RBI, R, BB, 2 K's (.357 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 1 for 2, 2B, HBP (.208 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/met8ae

Player of the Day - Mario Songco, OF

Songco is now leading the Pioneer league in home runs. He has 4 home runs and 3 doubles in his last 6 games, batting .393 over that span. The downside is Mario's walk to strikeout ratio; he's yet to draw a walk in July and has already struck out 8 times. He's also struggling mightily against lefties, so he'll really need to prove he can hit them going forward if he wants to be considered an everyday player.

Minor League Recap - 7/06/09

2009-07-06T21:49:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque played a doubleheader

Game 1 - Albuquerque lost 5-3

Tony Abreu - 0 for 5 (.167 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 4, 2B (.257 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 1, HR (3), RBI, 2 R, 3 BB (.281 BA)

Cory Wade - 2 IP, 2 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 3 K's (6.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lgoxkg

Game 2 - Albuquerque lost 8-7

Tony Abreu - 1 for 2, 2 R, 2 BB (.188 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 2, R, BB, K (.259 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 3, HR (4), 3 RBI, R, BB, K (.293 BA)

Scott Elbert - 4.2 IP, 5 Hits, 4 ER, 6 BB, 4 K's (5.74 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/knb7me

Chattanooga lost 7-6

Josh Bell - 1 for 4, 2 R, BB, K (.274 BA)
Lucas May - 0 for 4, RBI, 2 K's (.290 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 2 for 5, 2B, R (.277 BA)

James Adkins - 4 IP, 5 Hits, 5 R (3 ER), 2 BB, 0 K's (5.11 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mm4tos

Inland Empire lost 7-2

Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, 2 K's, OF Assist (.266 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 4, PO (.298 BA)
Pedro Baez - 1 for 3, HR (10), RBI, R, E (.287 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 3, 2B, R, K (.291 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 3, RBI (.314 BA)

Josh Wall - 6 IP, 4 Hits, 2 ER, BB, 9 K's (5.37 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ma48ky

Great Lakes lost 6-2

Dee Gordon - 1 for 5, K, SB, E (.309 BA)
Nick Buss - 2 for 3, RBI, K, CS (.261 BA)
Kyle Russell - 2 for 4, HR (19), RBI, R, K, OF Assist (.281 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 1 for 4, K (.263 BA)

Geison Aguasviva - 5 IP, 8 Hits, 4 R (1 ER), 0 BB, 3 K's (0.36 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (3.68 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nb4fsg

Player of the Day - Jamie Hoffman, OF

While he didn't put up all the numbers today, since the first game was a completion of a suspended game from a few days ago, he went a combined 3 for 4 with 2 HR and 4 walks. Hoffman still doesn't profile as an everyday player but he's a personal favorite.

Minor League Recap - 7/05/09

2009-07-05T23:04:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque was postponed due to rain

Chattanooga won 14-4

Andrew Lambo - 3 for 4, 2B, HR (8), 5 RBI, 2 R, BB (.275 BA)
Lucas May - 2 for 5, 2B, 2 R, K (.301 BA)

Victor Garate - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (2.30 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/pv5fqo

Inland Empire lost 7-3

Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 4, CS (.295 BA)
Pedro Baez - 1 for 4, R, K, E (.287 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 4 (.291 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 2 for 3, 2B, 3B, RBI, R, BB (.314 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/qdbwa2

Great Lakes lost 4-1

Dee Gordon - 1 for 4 (.310 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 3, 2 K's, HBP (.278 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 1 for 3, 2B, R, BB, E (.263 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/odz6je

Ogden won 5-3

Brian Cavazos-Galvez - 1 for 4, 2B, K, SB, OF Assist (.304 BA)
Jerry Sands - 1 for 4, R, BB, K (.473 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 4, HR (5), 2 RBI, R, HBP (.340 BA)
JT Wise - 2 for 4, 2 R, K (.500 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/qfnljm

AZL won 4-2

Nick Akins - 1 for 4, RBI, K, CS (.415 BA)

Beyker Fructuoso - 3 IP, 4 Hits, ER, 2 BB, 2 K's (2.16 ERA)
Roberto Feliciano - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (1.13 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/qks8by

Player of the Day - Andrew Lambo, OF

Hopefully Lambo is starting to turn things around. He killed it during April (.931 OPS), but struggled through May and June (OPSing .591 and .772). Now he's heating up with the weather, already collecting 7 hits in 5 games. Andrew's had bad luck this year, maintaining a high line drive percentage every month but seeing his BABIP drop under .300 over the last 2 months. As long as he's hitting the ball hard, I'm not concerns with the numbers.

Minor League Recap - 7/04/09

2009-07-04T22:35:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque was suspended due to rain

Chattanooga lost 8-2

Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4 (.269 BA)
Josh Bell - 0 for 2, 2 BB, K, CS (.275 BA)

Javy Guerra - 1 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 2 K's (3.86 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n6gu5e

Inland Empire won 4-3

Preston Mattingly - 1 for 5, R, K (.270 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 4, K, SB, OF Assist (.299 BA)
Pedro Baez - 2 for 4, 2 RBI, R, K (.287 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 4, K (.310 BA)

Chris Withrow - 5 IP, 4 Hits, 3 ER, 3 BB, 10 K's (5.23 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nda79w

Great Lakes lost 8-4

Dee Gordon - 0 for 4, K (.311 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 1 for 4, RBI, R, K, SB (.272 BA)
Kyle Russell - 2 for 4, 2B, PO (.281 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 1 for 2, HR (6), RBI, 2 R, K, HBP (.262 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/kllzyd

Ogden won 14-7

Brian Cavazos-Galvez - 2 for 5, 2B, 3B, 2 RBI, R, BB, K (.308 BA)
Jerry Sands - 2 for 4, 2B, HR (5), 2 RBI, 3 R, BB (.490 BA)
Mario Songco - 3 for 5, 2B, RBI, 2 R, K (.348 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lby4xp

AZL did not play

Player of the Day - Jerry Sands, OF

Now batting .490, Sands is tearing the cover off the ball after struggling in a 5 game stint with Great Lakes. The 21 year old is showing the same raw power he did a year ago, when he belted 10 HR for GCL. But last year, he hit just .205 with 43 K's in 46 games. Once he gets out of the hitter's haven that is the Pioneer league, it'll be interesting to see what Jerry can do with all his talent.

Minor League Recap - 7/03/09

2009-07-03T22:21:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 4-3

Tony Abreu - 0 for 4 (.200 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 1 for 3, 2B, R, BB, K (.246 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 3, 2B, 2 R, BB (.274 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/m78ger

Chattanooga won 4-3

Josh Bell - 0 for 4, 3 K's (.277 BA)
Lucas May - 0 for 2, BB, K, HBP (.292 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 2 for 4, CS (.269 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mfg78q

Inland Empire won 6-3

Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4 (.272 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 3, HR (11), RBI, 2 R, 2 BB (.296 BA)
Pedro Baez - 0 for 4, RBI, K, E (.284 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 3, RBI, BB, 2 K's, E (.296 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 3 for 5, 2 RBI, K (.311 BA)

Tim Sexton - 6 IP, 6 Hits, 2 R (1 ER), 4 BB, 6 K's (2.91 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/klt6ku

Great Lakes won 5-3

Dee Gordon - 4 for 6, HR (2), 2 RBI, R, SB, 2 CS (.315 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 1 for 5, RBI, K (.273 BA)
Nick Buss - 1 for 5, 2 K's (.256 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 4, BB, 3 K's (.278 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 1 for 5, 3 K's (.260 BA)

Nathan Eovaldi - 5 IP, 5 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 7 K's (3.90 ERA)
Ethan Martin - 3 IP, 3 Hits, 3 ER, BB, 3 K's (4.50 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ljvwsr

Ogden won 11-2

Brian Cavazos-Galvez - 3 for 6, 2 2B's, 2 RBI, 2 R (.298 BA)
Jerry Sands - 4 for 6, 3B, 2 RBI, 2 R (.489 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 6, RBI, 3 K's (.317 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/moucfn

AZL lost 6-5

Nick Akins - 1 for 4, 2 RBI, BB, K (.432 BA)
Clay Calfee - 2 for 5, 3B, RBI, R, 2 K"s (.349 BA)
Michael Pericht - 2 for 5, RBI (.348 BA)
Chris Henderson - 3 for 4, 2B, RBI, K, E (.292 BA)

Carlos Frias - 5 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 0 BB, 5 K's (1.35 ERA)
Hong Chih Kuo - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, 2 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n2b4d9

Player of the Day - Dee Gordon, SS

After failing to bunt the winning run to 3rd base, Gordon smoked a walk-off home run over the right-center field wall. It was just his second HR of the year, which makes it even more remarkable. Dee is coming off an amazing June, where he hit .347 with 14 stolen bases. He was caught stealing twice tonight, which is something he'll have to work on as he moves up the ladder. But it's great to see Flash Jr having so much success so early in his career.

Minor League Recap - 7/02/09

2009-07-02T22:57:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque did not play

Chattanooga lost 4-3

Andrew Lambo - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, R, 2 K's (.266 BA)
Josh Bell - 2 for 3, 2B, BB, E (.281 BA)

Victor Garate - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 3 BB, K (2.45 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nxc7pr

Inland Empire won 6-2

Preston Mattingly - 3 for 5, 2 RBI, R, K, SB, E (.276 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 5, 2B, 2 RBI, 3 K's, SB (.296 BA)
Pedro Baez - 0 for 5, 2 K's (.289 BA)
Steven Caseres - 1 for 4, 3B, R, BB, K (.295 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 0 for 4, BB, K (.306 BA)

Steven Johnson - 6.1 IP, 6 Hits, 2 ER, 2 BB, 8 K's (3.80 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/m3b2vp

Great Lakes played a doubleheader

Game 1 - Great Lakes won 4-2

Dee Gordon - 0 for 3, K, E (.308 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 2 for 3, 2B, HR (10), RBI, 2 R, K (.277 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 0 for 3, K (.260 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 2, R, BB (.284 BA)
Nick Buss - 1 for 2, RBI (.261 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 1 for 2, HR (5), RBI, R (.268 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/lv75q4

Game 2 - Great Lakes lost 3-1

Dee Gordon - 1 for 3 (.308 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 0 for 3, K (.274 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 1 for 2, HBP (.262 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 2, BB, K (.282 BA)

Justin Miller - 6.1 IP, 4 Hits, 2 ER, BB, 7 K's (4.69 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 0.2 IP, Hit, ER, 0 BB, K (3.95 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mwpsc7

Ogden lost 14-6

Brian Cavazos-Galvez - 3 for 5, 2 2B's, 2 R, SB (.268 BA)
Jerry Sands - 3 for 5, 2 RBI, R, K, CS, OF Assist (.463 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 5, HR (4), 2 RBI, R, 2 K's (.343 BA)

Javier Solano - 1.1 IP, 4 Hits, 2 ER, 0 BB, K (5.06 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n36ffw

AZL won 6-1

Clay Calfee - 1 for 4, RBI, E (.342 BA)
Michael Pericht - 3 for 4, 2B, HR (2), 2 RBI, 2 R, BB (.333 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 0 for 4, BB, K (.200 BA)
Jan Vazquez - 0 for 3, R, HBP (.071 BA)

Carl Webster - 5 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 2 BB, 9 K's (1.93 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nh5sxl

Player of the Day - Michael Pericht, C

The 16th rounder out of St Joseph's in Indiana was unheralded as a draft prospect but has shown some crazy good on-base abilities during his brief debut. The 6'5 225 lbs backstop has drawn an impressive 8 walks in just 6 games, and his 1.389 OPS is second best in the league. Of course, he probably shouldn't even be considered a prospect just yet, but it's fun to see this type of production.

Minor League Recap - 7/01/09

2009-07-01T22:06:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 9-5

Tony Abreu - 2 for 5, HR (1), RBI, R (.235 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 4, R, BB, K (.258 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 5, 2 K's (.240 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 3, R, BB, SB, CS (.261 BA)

Jason Schmidt - 6 IP, 7 Hits, 4 ER, 0 BB, 5 K's (3.38 ERA)
Cory Wade - 1 IP, Hit, ER, 0 BB, K (9.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/ndjfsc

Chattanooga won 9-3

Josh Bell - 1 for 3, 2 R, 2 BB (.277 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 0 for 0, R, BB (.266 BA)

James Adkins - 6 IP, 5 Hits, 2 ER, BB, 3 K's (5.03 ERA)
Javy Guerra - 1 IP, 0 Hits, ER, 3 BB, K (2.45 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/netq4e

Inland Empire won 4-0

Preston Mattingly - 1 for 3, BB, K, SB, CS (.269 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 2 for 4, R, K, SB (.297 BA)
Pedro Baez - 1 for 3, 2 R, K, E, HBP (.294 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 4, K (.296 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 2 for 4, RBI, K, CS (.310 BA)

Josh Wall - 7 IP, 6 Hits, 0 R, 3 BB, 3 K's (5.66 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kt3dve

Great Lakes was rained out

Ogden won 6-5

Brian Cavazos-Galvez - 1 for 6, HR (2), RBI, R, K (.222 BA)
Jerry Sands - 3 for 5, 2B, HR (4), 2 RBI, R, BB, K (.444 BA)
Mario Songco - 3 for 5, 2B, HR (3), 2 RBI, R, 2 K's (.367 BA)

Stephen Ames - 3 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's (1.42 ERA)
Daigoro Rondon - 2 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K's (0.00 ERA)
Nick Gaudi - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (10.13 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lg4nnn

AZL won 6-4

Casio Grider - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, R, 2 K's (.211 BA)
Nick Akins - 2 for 4, K, SB (.455 BA)
Chris Henderson - 1 for 3, R, BB, 2 K's, SB (.200 BA)
Austin King - 0 for 1, R, BB, K, CS, 2 E's, HBP (.154 BA)

Dan Danielson - 4.1 IP, 6 Hits, 3 R (2 ER), BB, 4 K's (3.65 ERA)
Bolivar Medina - 4.2 IP, 2 Hits, R (0 ER), 2 BB, 3 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lldstu

Players of the Day - Jerry Sands and Mario Songco, OF

Entering the bottom of the 9th, the Raptors were down 5-4. Brian Cavazos-Galvez starts the inning with a line out to left field and Jerry Sands strikes out swinging. So with 1 out left, Mario Songco launches a shot over the right field wall to tie the game. Then, in the 11th, Lenell McGee becomes the potential winning run by singling to the shortstop. A Brian Cavazos-Galvez strike out brings up Jerry Sands, looking to make up for his earlier whiff. Sands sends a ball to right field that scores McGee and the Raptors win 6-5 in 11 innings.

Both corner outfielders are having strong starts to their seasons, each OPSing over 1.000. Sands, though older, is more raw with potential plus tools, while Songco is less flashy with a better chance to hit in the future.

Minor League Recap - 6/30/09

2009-06-30T22:14:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 9-0

Tony Abreu - 1 for 3, BB, K, CS (.167 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 4, K (.258 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 3, BB (.246 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 1 for 3, BB (.247 BA)

Scott Elbert - 5 IP, 10 Hits, 6 ER, BB, 6 K's (4.91 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/lpcp4n

Chattanooga won 4-2

Josh Bell - 0 for 3, RBI (.276 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 3, 2B, R, BB (.266 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/l7s7ye

Inland Empire lost 5-4

Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, R, BB, 2 K's (.268 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 3, HR (10), 2 RBI, R, BB (.295 BA)
Pedro Baez - 1 for 4, 2 RBI, K (.294 BA)
Steven Caseres - 0 for 3, BB (.302 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 4, 2 K's (.307 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nc24ne

Great Lakes won 3-2

Dee Gordon - 1 for 3, RBI, R, BB, SB (.311 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 1 for 4, 2 K's (.273 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 0 for 4, K (.263 BA)
Kyle Russell - 2 for 3, HR (18), RBI, R, BB, K (.286 BA)

Geison Aguasviva - 2 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n3rdtf

Ogden lost 9-5

Jerry Sands - 1 for 4, K (.419 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 3, R, BB, K (.320 BA)

Matt Magill - 4 IP, 9 Hits, 6 R (5 ER), 0 BB, 0 K's (7.20 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/no3ppa

AZL won 6-5

Stetson Banks - 0 for 5, R, K (.105 BA)
Nick Akins - 2 for 5, 2B, R, 2 K's (.448 BA)
Clay Calfee - 1 for 4, RBI, BB (.400 BA)
Chris Henderson - 0 for 3, RBI, BB, K (.176 BA)
Jan Vazquez - 1 for 3, R, HBP (.091 BA)

Hong Chih Kuo - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K's (0.00 ERA)
Kevin Childs - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (10.80 ERA)
Justin Dignelli - 1 IP, Hit, 0 R, 0 BB, K (0.00 ERA)
Pedro Feliciano - 3 IP, Hit, ER, BB, 4 K's (1.50 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mp4jbt

Player of the Day - Trayvon Robinson, OF

It hasn't been Tray's best month, but he's improved both his walk and strikeout rates, as well as clubbing his 4th HR in June. He now has 10 on the season, after collecting just 12 in the past 4 seasons combined. His SB success rate needs improvement and in spite of his freakishly high flyball BABIP, Robinson is succeeding in most aspects of his game.

Minor League Recap - 6/29/09

2009-06-29T22:47:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 2-0

Chin Lung Hu - 1 for 3, K (.258 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 4 (.250 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 4, 2 K's, E, OF Assist (.244 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mapew7

Chattanooga lost 7-6

Josh Bell - 3 for 5, 2B, R (.279 BA)
Andrew Lambo - 1 for 5, R (.266 BA)

Victor Garate - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (2.54 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mme7ve

Inland Empire won 6-5

Manny Ramirez - 1 for 3, 2 K's (.429 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 1 for 4, R, K (.273 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, 2 R, BB, SB (.294 BA)
Pedro Baez - 2 for 5, 2B, 2 RBI, K (.295 BA)
Steven Caseres - 2 for 4, 2B, BB (.306 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 3 for 5, 3 RBI, R, K (.308 BA)

Eric Stults - 3 IP, 2 Hits, R (0 ER), 0 BB, 3 K's (0.00 ERA)
Chris Withrow - 3.2 IP, 7 Hits, 3 ER, BB, 5 K's (5.22 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/mmu2p9

Great Lakes did not play

Ogden won 6-4

Brian Cavazos-Galvez - 1 for 4, HR (1), 3 RBI, R, K (.240 BA)
Jerry Sands - 2 for 4, R, OF Assist (.444 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 4, K, OF Assist (.318 BA)
Kyle Orr - 1 for 3, RBI, K (.071 BA)

Joseph Paxson - 3 IP, 2 Hits, 2 R (1 ER), BB, 2 K's (2.08 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l2ta2e

AZL did not play

Player of the Day - Josh Bell, 3B

Bell's been hot of late, batting .324 with 5 doubles over his last 10 games. However, he's not walking as much and hasn't homered in over 2 weeks. Still, Josh is posting very promising numbers as a 22 year old in Double A and could yield interest from many teams as we approach the trade deadline.

Minor League Recap - 6/28/09

2009-06-28T22:26:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque lost 10-5

Tony Abreu - 1 for 5, 2B, R, K (.111 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 2 for 5, R (.257 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 2, R, 2 BB (.255 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 2 for 3, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 R, BB (.256 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/nr75db

Chattanooga won 6-5

Andrew Lambo - 3 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 R, CS (.267 BA)

Javy Guerra - 1.2 IP, 2 Hits, R (0 ER), 0 BB, 0 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/m7mqav

Inland Empire won 4-1

Manny Ramirez - 0 for 2, BB, 2 K's (.500 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 1, BB (.274 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 0 for 5, K (.295 BA)
Pedro Baez - 0 for 3, R, BB, K (.292 BA)
Steven Caseres - 2 for 3, HR (11), 2 RBI, R, BB, K (.302 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 3 for 4, 2 2B's, R, K (.303 BA)

Tim Sexton - 8 IP, 6 Hits, ER, BB, 6 K's (3.01 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n5o7ed

Great Lakes lost 8-0

Dee Gordon - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 K's, E (.311 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 0 for 3, HBP (.267 BA)
Kyle Russell - 0 for 4, K (.282 BA)

Robert Boothe - 2 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K's (4.68 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/m3228h

Ogden lost 5-2

Jerry Sands - 1 for 4, K, OF Assist (.435 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 3, 2B, RBI, BB, K (.333 BA)
Kyle Orr - 0 for 3, R, BB, K (.000 BA)

Graham Miller - 2 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 2 BB, 0 K's (0.00 ERA)
Nick Gaudi - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (16.20 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/m3f5qf

AZL lost 5-4

Melvin Ray - 0 for 4, R, BB, 3 K's (.048 BA)
Casio Grider - 0 for 1, R, 3 BB, E, HBP (.200 BA)
Clay Calfee - 1 for 5, E (.423 BA)
Chris Henderson - 0 for 4, BB, 2 K's, E (.214 BA)
Austin King - 2 for 4, RBI, K, OF Assist (.167 BA)

Carlos Frias - 3.1 IP, 7 Hits, 3 R (1 ER), BB, 7 K's (1.08 ERA)
Beyker Fructuoso - 4 IP, 4 Hits, 2 R (1 ER), 0 BB, 3 K's (1.69 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/kmruwj

Player of the Day - Tim Sexton, RHP

June wasn't the kindest month to Tim, but he closed it out with a bang. It was Sexton's second 8 inning outing of the year and his first in which he allowed just 1 earned run since May 22nd. What's impressed me the most this year are his command and ability to induce groundballs. He's walked just 15 batters in 83.2 innings and has a 2.08 ground/fly ratio. Tim definitely deserves a promotion, since he's arguably been the Dodgers' most consistent pitching prospect this season.

Minor League Recap - 6/27/09

2009-06-27T22:13:00.000-07:00

Albuquerque won 4-2

Tony Abreu - 0 for 4, K (.000 BA)
Chin Lung Hu - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.255 BA)
Blake DeWitt - 0 for 2, R, 2 BB (.258 BA)
Jamie Hoffman - 0 for 3, R, BB, K, SB (.240 BA)

http://tinyurl.com/mbaagh

Chattanooga won 4-1

Andrew Lambo - 0 for 3, R, BB (.260 BA)

Victor Garate - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, BB, 0 K's (2.63 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l478ug

Inland Empire won 7-4

Manny Ramirez - 2 for 2, HR (1), RBI, 2 R, BB (1.000 BA)
Preston Mattingly - 0 for 4, BB, K, CS (.275 BA)
Trayvon Robinson - 1 for 4, K (.300 BA)
Pedro Baez - 2 for 4, 2 2B's, RBI, R (.296 BA)
Scott Van Slyke - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, 2 K's (.296 BA)

Steven Johnson - 7 IP, 3 Hits, 0 R, BB, 7 K's (3.87 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/my8sqy

Great Lakes won 5-4

Dee Gordon - 2 for 5, R, E (.312 BA)
Jaime Pedroza - 1 for 4, 2B, 2 RBI, BB, K, E (.276 BA)
Tony Delmonico - 2 for 6, 2 2B's, RBI, R, 2 K's (.270 BA)
Kyle Russell - 2 for 5, 2B, RBI, BB, 2 K's (.286 BA)
Austin Gallagher - 1 for 6, 2B, R, 2 K's (.261 BA)
Nick Buss - 0 for 3, RBI, K, HBP (.268 BA)
Alfredo Silverio - 2 for 5, R, K (.270 BA)

Ethan Martin - 4 IP, 3 Hits, 2 R (0 ER), 2 BB, 3 K's (4.27 ERA)
Nathan Eovaldi - 3.2 IP, 3 Hits, ER, 3 BB, 2 K's (4.25 ERA)
Cole St Clair - 3 IP, 2 Hits, ER, 3 BB, 3 K's (3.46 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/l5zg9h

Ogden won 8-6

Jerry Sands - 2 for 4, HR (3), 2 RBI, R (.474 BA)
Mario Songco - 1 for 2, RBI, R, 2 BB (.333 BA)
Pedro Guerrero - 2 for 4, RBI, 2 R (.235 BA)

Javier Solano - 2 IP, 3 Hits, 1 R (0 ER), BB, 0 K's (2.25 ERA)
Stephen Ames - 1.1 IP, Hit, ER, BB, 3 K's (2.70 ERA)
Andrew Suiter - 0.1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 3 BB, K (0.00 ERA)
Daigoro Rondon - 1 IP, 0 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, K (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/n9crb4

AZL lost 13-7

Casio Grider - 1 for 4, K, SB (.214 BA)
Nick Akins - 1 for 5, R, 4 K's, SB (.458 BA)
Michael Pericht - 0 for 4, RBI, R, BB, 2 K's (.214 BA)
Jonathan Garcia - 0 for 4, 2 K's (.250 BA)

Carl Webster - 5 IP, 2 Hits, 0 R, 0 BB, 6 K's (2.00 ERA)
Andres Santiago - 2 IP, 6 Hits, 7 ER, BB, 3 K's (10.29 ERA)
Amauri Guzman - 1 IP, 0 Hits, R (0 ER), 0 BB, 2 K's (0.00 ERA)

http://tinyurl.com/nxshzw

Player of the Day - Steven Johnson, RHP

That Manny guy had a nice day as well, but Johnson pitched brilliantly en route to his 6th win of the season. His ERA this month is just over 2, in spite of a nasty outing on the 16th when he gave up 5 runs in 6.1 innings. Steven has shown flashes this spring of being a very real prospect and at 21, he still has time to develop.