Brett Myers' rehab appearance, scheduled for Sunday in Lakewood (A-), was postponed due to rain. The Blue Claws had their game rescheduled as a Monday doubleheader, starting at 5:05pm. Myers is expected to pitch the first inning, of the first game, as he has dinner reservations that night.
If Lakewood draws 6,047 fans, they will be the fastest South Atlantic League team to reach 4 million in attendance. In the unlikely event that a Brett Myers appearance, and TWO baseball games isn't enough, the PHILLIE PHANATIC will also be there! Drawing 6,047 fans should not be a problem.
There doesn't appear to be any internet broadcast available, but Myers' appearance, and the rest of the doubleheader against the Lake County Captains, will be live-blogged here.
Clay Condrey and J.C. Romero are expected to throw bullpen sessions in Clearwater on Monday. Reinforcements are on the way, though not exactly quickly...
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) continued to feast upon the entrails of the woeful Pawtucket Red Sox, winning 4-2, on Sunday afternoon. Starter Joe Savery got his third victory, in four decisions at AAA. But, just as we shouldn't get overly excited about Gustavo Chacin's eight scoreless innings on Saturday, we need to temper our excitement about Savery's performance, as well. Pawtucket has ridden a .229 team batting average, to a 53-73 record. The highest batting average in their starting lineup was .252. Four players in the starting lineup were batting under .211.
Savery survived five and two-thirds innings, permitting two runs, on five hits and three walks (three whiffs). He left the game in the sixth inning, after loading the bases, but reliever Gary Majewski stranded all three runners.
Carlos Leon, promoted to AAA, when Miguel Cairo was promoted to the parent club, made his first start for Lehigh Valley. The second-sacker went 3 for 3, including a home run. Leon was referred to as "minor league filler" on this blog, prior to the game, and appears to have been spurred on by the comment.
The Reading Phillies (AA) fell to the New Britain Rock Cats on Sunday afternoon, as per usual, 5-4. The Stone Felines have won 10 of 11 from the R-Phils, and seem devoted to keeping Reading out of the playoffs. The R-Phils play New Britain again on Monday night, and have another three-game series against them in September.
R-Phils' starter Vance Worley pitched six innings, surrendering three runs, on six hits and a walk (two whiffs).
R-Phils' reliever B.J. Rosenberg GAVE UP ACTUAL RUNS, for the first time since May 31st. Rosenberg actually gave up two runs in one inning, on three hits (zero walks/zero whiffs).
Steve Susdorf went 3 for 4 for Reading, raising his average to .245.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) had Sunday off, and will continue their series against the Dunedin Blue Jays on Monday. Tyler Cloyd will take the ball for Clearwater, on the last scheduled Feeding Frenzy of the Year. Clay Condrey and J.C. Romero picked the right place to make their respective rehab appearances, as the "best restaurants around the Clearwater area", including Boston Market, Westshore Pizza, and Costco, will be at Bright House Field. If you mock the inclusion of Costco, in such esteemed culinary company, you've obviously never enjoyed a Costco hot dog, while watching the Phillies (or one of their affiliates). Access to the Costco snack bar alone (and their glorious churros!), is more than enough to justify paying their annual membership fee.
Showing posts with label Joe Savery. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Joe Savery. Show all posts
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Bunts and Balks (8/13)
The Colorado Rockies recalled Adam Eaton from AAA. The Rockies have a three-game series against the Florida Marlins this weekend, so Eaton's considerable pitching deficiencies may continue to haunt the Phillies.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) had a 8-7 lead, after seven innings, but fell to the Louisville Bats, 12-8. Joe Bisenius' return to AAA did not go well. He allowed four runs, on six hits, in one and one-third innings of "relief." Perfomances like that could get Bisenius booted off the 40-Man Roster, in a timely manner.
Joe Savery made his third start in AAA, and managed to pitch four scoreless innings, escaping numerous jams. But he couldn't escape jams in the fifth and sixth innings, and his 2.45 ERA was horribly scarred. Savery finished with a 3.78 ERA, after his five and two-thirds innings of work. Savery gave up six hits and three walks (five whiffs), leading to six runs (four earned).
The Reading Phillies (AA) also suffered from bullpen issues, losing to the Trenton Thunder, 5-1. Yohan Flande took a no-hitter into the fifth inning for the R-Phils. Flande pitched six innings, allowing two runs, on only four hits (two walks/five whiffs). Chance Chapman and Mike Zagurski combined to surrender three runs in the seventh inning, and the R-Phils were held to only five hits.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) started their game against the Lakeland Flying Tigers at 6:30pm, so they could host a concert by rising country band Love and Theft! The Threshers remained undefeated, in Thursday night home games preceding Love and Theft concerts, with a 6-2 win. Tyler Cloyd pitched seven scoreless innings (three hits, two walks/six whiffs) for his third win, lowering his ERA to 4.02 ERA.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) had a 8-7 lead, after seven innings, but fell to the Louisville Bats, 12-8. Joe Bisenius' return to AAA did not go well. He allowed four runs, on six hits, in one and one-third innings of "relief." Perfomances like that could get Bisenius booted off the 40-Man Roster, in a timely manner.
Joe Savery made his third start in AAA, and managed to pitch four scoreless innings, escaping numerous jams. But he couldn't escape jams in the fifth and sixth innings, and his 2.45 ERA was horribly scarred. Savery finished with a 3.78 ERA, after his five and two-thirds innings of work. Savery gave up six hits and three walks (five whiffs), leading to six runs (four earned).
The Reading Phillies (AA) also suffered from bullpen issues, losing to the Trenton Thunder, 5-1. Yohan Flande took a no-hitter into the fifth inning for the R-Phils. Flande pitched six innings, allowing two runs, on only four hits (two walks/five whiffs). Chance Chapman and Mike Zagurski combined to surrender three runs in the seventh inning, and the R-Phils were held to only five hits.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) started their game against the Lakeland Flying Tigers at 6:30pm, so they could host a concert by rising country band Love and Theft! The Threshers remained undefeated, in Thursday night home games preceding Love and Theft concerts, with a 6-2 win. Tyler Cloyd pitched seven scoreless innings (three hits, two walks/six whiffs) for his third win, lowering his ERA to 4.02 ERA.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Minor(s) Updates
Recently-promoted Joe Savery won his second start for Lehigh Valley (AAA), improving to 2-0, with a 2.45 ERA, at that level. Don't get overly excited by those gaudy stats. A Small Sample Size Alert is necessary when looking at any numbers, here, as the rest of the stats indicate that Savery hasn't been very effective. Savery has allowed ten hits and nine walks (five whiffs), in his eleven AAA innings. He has had more than his fair share of BABIP, and LOB%, luck.
Savery could be competing for a spot in the rotation next year- with Lehigh Valley. He needs to significantly improve his command, if he wants to escape AAA.
Gustavo Chacin improved to 6-2, with a 3.26 ERA, in his last three starts for Lehigh Valley. Chacin also has a 4.22 FIP. He has no future with the Phillies' organization. I wonder if any organization would trade something (a low-A prospect?) for Chacin? Either way, Chacin likely won't be back in 2010.
Michael Taylor has 83 ABs at AAA, posting a .727 OPS, including 3 HRs. Not a bad start. He could be brought up to the parent Phillies in September, with a postseason spot possible, if things go well.
At Reading (AA), OF Jeremy Slayden announced his retirement, with OF Steve Susdorf promoted from Clearwater (A), to take Slayden's roster spot. The 27-year-old Slayden played at AAA this season, struggling to post a .229/.295/.398 line. Not enough for the left-handed hitting outfielder to be a viable prospect.
The 23-year-old Susdorf excelled with Clearwater, slugging his way to a .373/.423/.513 line. The left-handed hitting Susdorf needs to work on his defensive game, but could find himself in AAA for 2010.
Tyson Brummett has been placed on the Reading DL, with right elbow inflammation. B.J. Rosenberg was promoted from Lakewood (low-A). Brummett has not been very effective this season, pitching in both AA and AAA. The results could have been caused by injury, or this could just be a convenient way to get Brummett off the roster for awhile. Either way, Brummett is more minor league filler, than prospect.
Rosenberg was outstanding at Lakewood: .89 ERA, 11.68 K/9, 6.5 K/BB, 1.33 FIP. Rosenberg will be 24 in September, so AA is a bit more of an age-appropriate level. A strong finish to 2009 with Reading, and Rosenberg could be in AAA for 2010.
(Was surprised to see Rosenberg promoted to AA, before Clearwater's Michael Schwimer, but Schwimer could be up with R-Phils, before long.)
Reading ace Kyle Drabek had a poor start at Binghamton on Saturday night, allowing four runs in five innings (six hits, four walks/four whiffs).
Drabek was making only his third road start, despite making twelve appearances for the R-Phils. He continues to struggle against left-handed batters, who are hitting .333 against the 21-year-old southpaw. Drabek threw thirty-two innings in 2008, after coming off TJ surgery, and has thrown one-hundred forty (at two levels), this season. That is a rather large jump, especially for a young pitcher coming off surgery. It might be time to start limiting Drabek's innings/pitches.
Reading northpaw Vance Worley has posted a 7.89 ERA, in his last ten starts. Worley has surrendered seventy-six hits, and eighteen walks (thirty whiffs), in his last fifty-one innings. The twenty-one year old threw sixty-nine innings in 2008, and is up to one-hundred and twenty-six innings, this season. Another large innings jump, and Worley's innings might also need to be limited, as the season progresses.
Yohan Flande, Reading's 23-year-old southpaw, has pitched well recently. But his innings (53 in 2008, 124 in 2009) are also getting a bit high...
Clearwater (A) has seen their roster depleted by callups. Not sure if the Threshers have any worthwhile position prospects at this point, with DomOnic Brown, Steve Susdorf, and Tim Kennelly all having been promoted to AA.
But there are still a number of pitching prospects to watch, including Michael Schwimer, Joe Bisenius, Darren Byrd, Tyler Cloyd, Drew Naylor, and Jon Velazquez.
Savery could be competing for a spot in the rotation next year- with Lehigh Valley. He needs to significantly improve his command, if he wants to escape AAA.
Gustavo Chacin improved to 6-2, with a 3.26 ERA, in his last three starts for Lehigh Valley. Chacin also has a 4.22 FIP. He has no future with the Phillies' organization. I wonder if any organization would trade something (a low-A prospect?) for Chacin? Either way, Chacin likely won't be back in 2010.
Michael Taylor has 83 ABs at AAA, posting a .727 OPS, including 3 HRs. Not a bad start. He could be brought up to the parent Phillies in September, with a postseason spot possible, if things go well.
At Reading (AA), OF Jeremy Slayden announced his retirement, with OF Steve Susdorf promoted from Clearwater (A), to take Slayden's roster spot. The 27-year-old Slayden played at AAA this season, struggling to post a .229/.295/.398 line. Not enough for the left-handed hitting outfielder to be a viable prospect.
The 23-year-old Susdorf excelled with Clearwater, slugging his way to a .373/.423/.513 line. The left-handed hitting Susdorf needs to work on his defensive game, but could find himself in AAA for 2010.
Tyson Brummett has been placed on the Reading DL, with right elbow inflammation. B.J. Rosenberg was promoted from Lakewood (low-A). Brummett has not been very effective this season, pitching in both AA and AAA. The results could have been caused by injury, or this could just be a convenient way to get Brummett off the roster for awhile. Either way, Brummett is more minor league filler, than prospect.
Rosenberg was outstanding at Lakewood: .89 ERA, 11.68 K/9, 6.5 K/BB, 1.33 FIP. Rosenberg will be 24 in September, so AA is a bit more of an age-appropriate level. A strong finish to 2009 with Reading, and Rosenberg could be in AAA for 2010.
(Was surprised to see Rosenberg promoted to AA, before Clearwater's Michael Schwimer, but Schwimer could be up with R-Phils, before long.)
Reading ace Kyle Drabek had a poor start at Binghamton on Saturday night, allowing four runs in five innings (six hits, four walks/four whiffs).
Drabek was making only his third road start, despite making twelve appearances for the R-Phils. He continues to struggle against left-handed batters, who are hitting .333 against the 21-year-old southpaw. Drabek threw thirty-two innings in 2008, after coming off TJ surgery, and has thrown one-hundred forty (at two levels), this season. That is a rather large jump, especially for a young pitcher coming off surgery. It might be time to start limiting Drabek's innings/pitches.
Reading northpaw Vance Worley has posted a 7.89 ERA, in his last ten starts. Worley has surrendered seventy-six hits, and eighteen walks (thirty whiffs), in his last fifty-one innings. The twenty-one year old threw sixty-nine innings in 2008, and is up to one-hundred and twenty-six innings, this season. Another large innings jump, and Worley's innings might also need to be limited, as the season progresses.
Yohan Flande, Reading's 23-year-old southpaw, has pitched well recently. But his innings (53 in 2008, 124 in 2009) are also getting a bit high...
Clearwater (A) has seen their roster depleted by callups. Not sure if the Threshers have any worthwhile position prospects at this point, with DomOnic Brown, Steve Susdorf, and Tim Kennelly all having been promoted to AA.
But there are still a number of pitching prospects to watch, including Michael Schwimer, Joe Bisenius, Darren Byrd, Tyler Cloyd, Drew Naylor, and Jon Velazquez.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Bunts and Balks (8/3)
With the trade deadline having passed last Friday, the Phillies could still look to bolster the club, by acquiring a player who has cleared waivers. The Phillies have picked up Russell Branyan, Matt Stairs, and Scott Eyre, in recent post-trade deadline deals.
The team could really use an upgrade over Eric Bruntlett. A middle infielder with adequate batting skills, such as Willie Bloomquist or Jamey Carroll?
Another catcher would also come in handy, preferably one with at least some ability at the plate. The Houston Astros have a backup catcher who might be a good fit, but Chris Coste might not clear waivers.
The team has indicated that they will not rush Clay Condrey's rehabilitation. With so many rehabbing arms, all of whom will be clamoring for roster spots in the immediate future, there is no reason to rush Condrey. Condrey, and Brett Myers, may both have to wait until after rosters expand, on September 1st.
J.C. Romero, Chad Durbin, and Pedro Martinez should be ready for MLB, by the beginning of next week. Tyler Walker and Kyle Kendrick seem likely to lose their spots. J.A. Happ seems likely to move to the bullpen, to free up a rotation spot for Martinez.
Chad Durbin and Rodrigo Lopez, recently demoted to the bullpen, might be competing for a single relief spot. Neither will be Phillies' property, after the 2009 season. I'd put my money on Lopez to stay, and Durbin to be DFA'd. (Durbin would likely clear waivers, due to his salary/ineffectiveness in 2009, and could be back in The Pen, when rosters expand.)
The Phillies released a behind-the-scenes video from their fantasy camp, this past spring. Worth a viewing, if you are considering signing up for 2010, or just curious to see some of the players involved. Livin' the dream, baby!
Shane Victorino will return to the lineup on Tuesday night, and Rodrigo Lopez will be available out of the bullpen. With Jamie Moyer facing the hot Rockies, it's good that Moyer will have backup, and Bruntlett will be back up on the bench.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) used a fourteen-hit attack, to crush the Rochester Red Wings on Monday, 10-4. Joe Savery made his first start in AAA, and picked up the victory, with a bit of help from the small ball offense (nine singles, five doubles). Savery only permitted one run, on four hits (one double, three singles), over six innings. But, before you get too excited, he also walked five batters, whiffed zero, and pitched in trouble all night. Savery was more lucky, than good, on Monday night.
(Of course, if the IronPigs had DH'd for J.J. Furmaniak, instead of the hard-hitting Savery, the young southpaw could have helped himself with his strong bat.)
Alex Concepcion pitched the last three innings, turning a 10-1 lead into a 10-4 win, by allowing three ninth-inning runs. He was awarded a save for his efforts, which seems to be some rather questionable scoring.
After getting two hits on Sunday, and with Savery on the mound, I found it surprising that fellow Reading promotee Kevin Nelson wasn't behind the plate. John Hoover caught, instead, going three for five, with two RBI.
Michael Taylor was one for three, with a double, and two RBI.
Andrew Carpenter will start for the FeHogs, on Tuesday night, as they finish their series with Rochester.
The Reading Phillies (AA) had Monday off. They will send Mike Stutes to the mound on Tuesday, in a home matchup against the Trenton Thunder. On Wednesday, Pedro Martinez will make the start.
The Phillies spent most of their resources preparing their minor leaguers to perform on the field. But there is also off-the-field preparation, which includes training in media relations, Bark-In-The-Park preparedness, and community involvement.
The Reading Phillies were captured on video, as they worked with some of the local youth. (Or find the video here.)
The team could really use an upgrade over Eric Bruntlett. A middle infielder with adequate batting skills, such as Willie Bloomquist or Jamey Carroll?
Another catcher would also come in handy, preferably one with at least some ability at the plate. The Houston Astros have a backup catcher who might be a good fit, but Chris Coste might not clear waivers.
The team has indicated that they will not rush Clay Condrey's rehabilitation. With so many rehabbing arms, all of whom will be clamoring for roster spots in the immediate future, there is no reason to rush Condrey. Condrey, and Brett Myers, may both have to wait until after rosters expand, on September 1st.
J.C. Romero, Chad Durbin, and Pedro Martinez should be ready for MLB, by the beginning of next week. Tyler Walker and Kyle Kendrick seem likely to lose their spots. J.A. Happ seems likely to move to the bullpen, to free up a rotation spot for Martinez.
Chad Durbin and Rodrigo Lopez, recently demoted to the bullpen, might be competing for a single relief spot. Neither will be Phillies' property, after the 2009 season. I'd put my money on Lopez to stay, and Durbin to be DFA'd. (Durbin would likely clear waivers, due to his salary/ineffectiveness in 2009, and could be back in The Pen, when rosters expand.)
The Phillies released a behind-the-scenes video from their fantasy camp, this past spring. Worth a viewing, if you are considering signing up for 2010, or just curious to see some of the players involved. Livin' the dream, baby!
Shane Victorino will return to the lineup on Tuesday night, and Rodrigo Lopez will be available out of the bullpen. With Jamie Moyer facing the hot Rockies, it's good that Moyer will have backup, and Bruntlett will be back up on the bench.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) used a fourteen-hit attack, to crush the Rochester Red Wings on Monday, 10-4. Joe Savery made his first start in AAA, and picked up the victory, with a bit of help from the small ball offense (nine singles, five doubles). Savery only permitted one run, on four hits (one double, three singles), over six innings. But, before you get too excited, he also walked five batters, whiffed zero, and pitched in trouble all night. Savery was more lucky, than good, on Monday night.
(Of course, if the IronPigs had DH'd for J.J. Furmaniak, instead of the hard-hitting Savery, the young southpaw could have helped himself with his strong bat.)
Alex Concepcion pitched the last three innings, turning a 10-1 lead into a 10-4 win, by allowing three ninth-inning runs. He was awarded a save for his efforts, which seems to be some rather questionable scoring.
After getting two hits on Sunday, and with Savery on the mound, I found it surprising that fellow Reading promotee Kevin Nelson wasn't behind the plate. John Hoover caught, instead, going three for five, with two RBI.
Michael Taylor was one for three, with a double, and two RBI.
Andrew Carpenter will start for the FeHogs, on Tuesday night, as they finish their series with Rochester.
The Reading Phillies (AA) had Monday off. They will send Mike Stutes to the mound on Tuesday, in a home matchup against the Trenton Thunder. On Wednesday, Pedro Martinez will make the start.
The Phillies spent most of their resources preparing their minor leaguers to perform on the field. But there is also off-the-field preparation, which includes training in media relations, Bark-In-The-Park preparedness, and community involvement.
The Reading Phillies were captured on video, as they worked with some of the local youth. (Or find the video here.)
Friday, July 31, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/30)
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) lost in ten innings on Thursday, 5-4, to the Columbus Clippers. It must have been disconcerting to see two of Wednesday morning's FeHogs, Jason Donald and Lou Marson, in the starting lineup for the Clippers. In a sign of extreme disrespect, Marson and Donald occupied the last two spots in the Columbus batting order.
Drew Carpenter returned to the LV rotation, making his first start since July 19th. He pitched five strong innings, allowing only one run (five hits, two walks/five whiffs). He left with a 3-1 lead, but Francisco Butto, back in AAA (for a limited time only!), followed with one and two-thirds ineffective innings, before departing with LV trailing, 4-3. Jack Taschner got the loss, but should be held blameless, as he retired two of three batters. The one batter he didn't retire reached on an error, and was permitted to score by Gary Majewski.
Pedro Martinez will make a rehab start for LV on Friday night, facing former FeHog Carlos Carrasco. With the parent club playing on the West Coast, this is a good opportunity to tune in to the IronPigs' broadcast.
OF John Mayberry and RHP Steven Register were optioned to Lehigh Valley from the Phillies. Reinforcements! Mayberry should play regularly in the outfield for the IronPigs, with Register adding another arm to the faltering IronPigs bullpen.
RHP Tyson Brummett and RHP Francisco Butto were demoted from Lehigh Valley to Reading (AA). Butto spent one unsuccessful day in AAA. Brummett had been recalled for five days, in an attempt to replenish the pitching staff. Brummett had been demoted to the bullpen in AA, but was recalled to make a start in AAA. He was ineffective, and only ate four innings.
C Kevin Nelson was promoted to Lehigh Valley, from Reading. With starting catcher Lou Marson joining the Clippers, the IronPigs needed another backstop. Reading's starting catcher, Tuffy Gosewisch, is on the DL. That left Nelson, and Tim Kennelly (batting .171, in 12 games at AA) as the options. Given that Kennelly appears overmatched at AA, it was an easy decision. Paul Hoover should be expected to make the vast majority of the starts behind the plate for the IronPigs.
RHP Joe Savery was promoted to Lehigh Valley, from Reading. The IronPigs rotation has been gutted in recent weeks, but now seems to be almost replenished, with Carpenter/Brian Mazone/Gustavo Chacin/Martinez taking four, of the five, spots. Kyle Kendrick could be returning soon, but it appears the FeHogs wanted another starting option, in the interim.
Joe Savery was very impressive before the All-Star break (12-1, 3.48 ERA), but has struggled in his last five starts (27.2 IP, 41 H, 26 ER, 14 BB/19 K). He may be up in AAA just for a start, or two.
The Reading Phillies (AA) defeated the Portland Sea Dogs on Thursday, 2-0.
Vance Worley was coming off four atrocious starts in a row (18.1 IP, 38 H, 30 ER, 6 BB/12 K), but threw six scoreless innings (3 H, 2 BB/3 K), for his seventh win. Scott Mathieson (2 IP, 0 H, 1 K) and Sergio Escalona (1 IP, 2 K, 11th save) completed the shutout.
LHP Jason Mackintosh was placed on the DL, with a left elbow strain. RHP Scott Mathieson was promoted from Clearwater (A). Mathieson continues to roll through the minors. Could see him in AAA (and MLB?), before the end of Mathieson's season. He could be in the mix for the 2010 Phillies' bullpen.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) shut out the Fort Myers Miracle, 2-0. RHP Darren Byrd pitched eight scoreless innings for the win, allowing only four hits (two walks/six whiffs). Byrd has not allowed a run, in his last three starts (nineteen innings). Steve Susdorf went 1 for 3, and his batting average fell to .398.
Drew Carpenter returned to the LV rotation, making his first start since July 19th. He pitched five strong innings, allowing only one run (five hits, two walks/five whiffs). He left with a 3-1 lead, but Francisco Butto, back in AAA (for a limited time only!), followed with one and two-thirds ineffective innings, before departing with LV trailing, 4-3. Jack Taschner got the loss, but should be held blameless, as he retired two of three batters. The one batter he didn't retire reached on an error, and was permitted to score by Gary Majewski.
Pedro Martinez will make a rehab start for LV on Friday night, facing former FeHog Carlos Carrasco. With the parent club playing on the West Coast, this is a good opportunity to tune in to the IronPigs' broadcast.
OF John Mayberry and RHP Steven Register were optioned to Lehigh Valley from the Phillies. Reinforcements! Mayberry should play regularly in the outfield for the IronPigs, with Register adding another arm to the faltering IronPigs bullpen.
RHP Tyson Brummett and RHP Francisco Butto were demoted from Lehigh Valley to Reading (AA). Butto spent one unsuccessful day in AAA. Brummett had been recalled for five days, in an attempt to replenish the pitching staff. Brummett had been demoted to the bullpen in AA, but was recalled to make a start in AAA. He was ineffective, and only ate four innings.
C Kevin Nelson was promoted to Lehigh Valley, from Reading. With starting catcher Lou Marson joining the Clippers, the IronPigs needed another backstop. Reading's starting catcher, Tuffy Gosewisch, is on the DL. That left Nelson, and Tim Kennelly (batting .171, in 12 games at AA) as the options. Given that Kennelly appears overmatched at AA, it was an easy decision. Paul Hoover should be expected to make the vast majority of the starts behind the plate for the IronPigs.
RHP Joe Savery was promoted to Lehigh Valley, from Reading. The IronPigs rotation has been gutted in recent weeks, but now seems to be almost replenished, with Carpenter/Brian Mazone/Gustavo Chacin/Martinez taking four, of the five, spots. Kyle Kendrick could be returning soon, but it appears the FeHogs wanted another starting option, in the interim.
Joe Savery was very impressive before the All-Star break (12-1, 3.48 ERA), but has struggled in his last five starts (27.2 IP, 41 H, 26 ER, 14 BB/19 K). He may be up in AAA just for a start, or two.
The Reading Phillies (AA) defeated the Portland Sea Dogs on Thursday, 2-0.
Vance Worley was coming off four atrocious starts in a row (18.1 IP, 38 H, 30 ER, 6 BB/12 K), but threw six scoreless innings (3 H, 2 BB/3 K), for his seventh win. Scott Mathieson (2 IP, 0 H, 1 K) and Sergio Escalona (1 IP, 2 K, 11th save) completed the shutout.
LHP Jason Mackintosh was placed on the DL, with a left elbow strain. RHP Scott Mathieson was promoted from Clearwater (A). Mathieson continues to roll through the minors. Could see him in AAA (and MLB?), before the end of Mathieson's season. He could be in the mix for the 2010 Phillies' bullpen.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) shut out the Fort Myers Miracle, 2-0. RHP Darren Byrd pitched eight scoreless innings for the win, allowing only four hits (two walks/six whiffs). Byrd has not allowed a run, in his last three starts (nineteen innings). Steve Susdorf went 1 for 3, and his batting average fell to .398.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/28)
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) beat the Columbus Clippers on Tuesday, 4-2. Gustavo Chacin (the Machine?) had a strong start, improving to 6-3, with a 3.45 ERA. Chacin went six innings, allowing one run, on four hits (three walks/two strikeouts). Jason Donald returned to the lineup, at SS, and was 2 for 4, with a double. (Hopefully, that helped Donald's trade value.)
The Reading Phillies (AA) imploded in the late innings, losing 12-1, to the Portland Sea Dogs. The R-Phils surrendered seven runs, in Portland's last two innings, only one of which was an earned run. We will never speak of this again.
Starter Joe Savery continued to decrease his trade value, allowing three runs (six hits, three walks/three strikeouts) in only five innings. Savery dropped to 12-4 on the season, with a 4.41 ERA. Neil Sellers was 3 for 4, raising his average to .329. Tim Kennelly, playing in RF, continued to be overmatched at AA, with his 1 for 4 night dropping his average to .143. Expect recently-demoted OF Michael Spidale's return to relegate Kennelly to the backup catcher role, behind Kevin Nelson.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) held on in the ninth inning to defeat the St. Lucie Mets, 4-3. The Threshers lead 4-0, as play entered the ninth. Reliever Carlos Monasterios allowed four hits, and three runs, before escaping. Michael Galen Cisco pitched seven scoreless innings, permitting only a pair of singles (zero walks/eight whiffs!). Cisco improved to 7-3, with a 3.31 ERA. Dominic Brown was 2 for 3, with a pair of singles, raising his average to .310. Steve Susdorf's average fell back under .400, at .398, with a 1 for 4 night.
The Threshers activated C Joel Naughton from the DL, and placed C Luis Ramon Arzeno on the DL. Naughton is batting .225, with a .658 OPS. Nonetheless, he is a stark improvement over Arzeno, who sported a .215 average, with an OPS of only .498.
The Reading Phillies (AA) imploded in the late innings, losing 12-1, to the Portland Sea Dogs. The R-Phils surrendered seven runs, in Portland's last two innings, only one of which was an earned run. We will never speak of this again.
Starter Joe Savery continued to decrease his trade value, allowing three runs (six hits, three walks/three strikeouts) in only five innings. Savery dropped to 12-4 on the season, with a 4.41 ERA. Neil Sellers was 3 for 4, raising his average to .329. Tim Kennelly, playing in RF, continued to be overmatched at AA, with his 1 for 4 night dropping his average to .143. Expect recently-demoted OF Michael Spidale's return to relegate Kennelly to the backup catcher role, behind Kevin Nelson.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) held on in the ninth inning to defeat the St. Lucie Mets, 4-3. The Threshers lead 4-0, as play entered the ninth. Reliever Carlos Monasterios allowed four hits, and three runs, before escaping. Michael Galen Cisco pitched seven scoreless innings, permitting only a pair of singles (zero walks/eight whiffs!). Cisco improved to 7-3, with a 3.31 ERA. Dominic Brown was 2 for 3, with a pair of singles, raising his average to .310. Steve Susdorf's average fell back under .400, at .398, with a 1 for 4 night.
The Threshers activated C Joel Naughton from the DL, and placed C Luis Ramon Arzeno on the DL. Naughton is batting .225, with a .658 OPS. Nonetheless, he is a stark improvement over Arzeno, who sported a .215 average, with an OPS of only .498.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/23)
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) avoided a series sweep by the Charlotte Knights, defeating Charlotte, 4-3, on Thursday. Starter Gustavo Chacin surrendered six hits and three walks, over six innings, but allowed only a pair runs. Michael Taylor, in his eighth game at the AAA level, went 3 for 4, with a pair of singles, and a solo homer. Taylor has a .946 OPS, in 28 ABs for the FeHogs.
In a story found only on PhPh, IronPigs reliever Jack Taschner surrendered uniform #33, when Michael Taylor was promoted. Taschner is, currently, wearing #8. This is inconvertible evidence that Taylor will be traded to Toronto, in The Halladay Deal. Taschner is involved in the decision-making process behind each Phillies transaction, and never would have given up #33, if he wasn't aware that the sacrifice would only be a short-term one.
The IronPigs send Carlos Carrasco to the mound on Friday, as they face the Gwinnett Braves on Pigs in Paradise Night. Has there been a "IronPigs in Space" Night? FeFe and Ferrous in spacesuits. An anti-grav Moon Bounce. J.J. Furmaniak and Terry Tiffee constructing a rocket, and attempting to propel Gary Majewski into space. There are infinite possibilities...
The Reading Phillies (AA) were whitewashed by the Altoona Curve on Thursday, 8-0. The R-Phils fell behind 8-0 after four innings, but held the Curve off the scoreboard in their final four at bats. Seven of the runs were scored with two outs. Starter Joe Savery was charged with all eight runs, surviving only four innings, and increasing his ERA by .53, to 4.36. Savery has struggled mightily in July, permitting twenty-three runs (thirty-five hits, eleven walks/sixteen strikeouts) in twenty-two and two-thirds innings. Savery has a 9.13 ERA, in four July starts.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) lost to the Charlotte Knights, 4-1. Starter Drew Naylor gave up four runs, over six innings (five hits, three walks/six strikeouts), in taking his ninth loss.
Steve Susdorf had one of the four Thresher hits, a double, in his 1 for 4 effort. Susdorf's average dropped to .406.
In a story found only on PhPh, IronPigs reliever Jack Taschner surrendered uniform #33, when Michael Taylor was promoted. Taschner is, currently, wearing #8. This is inconvertible evidence that Taylor will be traded to Toronto, in The Halladay Deal. Taschner is involved in the decision-making process behind each Phillies transaction, and never would have given up #33, if he wasn't aware that the sacrifice would only be a short-term one.
The IronPigs send Carlos Carrasco to the mound on Friday, as they face the Gwinnett Braves on Pigs in Paradise Night. Has there been a "IronPigs in Space" Night? FeFe and Ferrous in spacesuits. An anti-grav Moon Bounce. J.J. Furmaniak and Terry Tiffee constructing a rocket, and attempting to propel Gary Majewski into space. There are infinite possibilities...
The Reading Phillies (AA) were whitewashed by the Altoona Curve on Thursday, 8-0. The R-Phils fell behind 8-0 after four innings, but held the Curve off the scoreboard in their final four at bats. Seven of the runs were scored with two outs. Starter Joe Savery was charged with all eight runs, surviving only four innings, and increasing his ERA by .53, to 4.36. Savery has struggled mightily in July, permitting twenty-three runs (thirty-five hits, eleven walks/sixteen strikeouts) in twenty-two and two-thirds innings. Savery has a 9.13 ERA, in four July starts.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) lost to the Charlotte Knights, 4-1. Starter Drew Naylor gave up four runs, over six innings (five hits, three walks/six strikeouts), in taking his ninth loss.
Steve Susdorf had one of the four Thresher hits, a double, in his 1 for 4 effort. Susdorf's average dropped to .406.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/18)
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) swept their Saturday doubleheader from the Rochester Red Wings, winning 7-5, and 6-3. The FeHogs have boldly ventured where no FeHog has ever ventured before: Third Place! Their sweep-ensuring strategy? Score six runs in each fourth inning, and allow less than six runs in each game.
In the opener, FeHogs' starter Gustavo Chacin surrendered five runs in five and one-third innings (six hits, two walks/one strikeout, two HR allowed), but the FeHogs scored seven runs, and the game lasted only seven innings, so Chacin received his fourth win. Jack Taschner picked up save with a scoreless seventh inning, a crisp twenty-three pitch/twelve-strike outing.
In the second game, IronPigs' starter Carlos Carrasco permitted three runs, over six, mostly strong, innings. He allowed two home runs, scoring all three of the runs, but only six total hits (zero walks/eight strikeouts!).
Michael Taylor went 2 for 4, including his first AAA home run. Expect to see him on the postseason roster. For the parent club.
Drew Carpenter will try to get the FeHogs back to .500, tonight at 5:35pm. Tune in!
The Reading Phillies (AA) were pounded by the New Britain Rock Cats, 11-3. The R-Phils have had no luck with the Rock Cats this season. Six losses for the R-Phils. A .349 avg. for the Rock Cats. To put things into a useful context, the Rock Cats, at least when playing the R-Phils, are the Sea Cows of the Eastern League.
R-Phils starter Joe Savery lost for only the second time (in fourteen decisions), surrendering six runs in five innings (eight hits, five walks (!)/five strikeouts, one HR allowed), and increasing his ERA to 3.83. (The R-Phils had Yohan Flande, Kyle Drabek, and Joe Savery lined up to start the Stone Felines' series, and still couldn't pick up a victory.)
Tyson Brummett pitched an inning in relief, allowing a run, and boosting his ERA to 4.96. After losing his rotation spot to Flande, Brummett remains in danger of losing his roster spot to Crazy Hot Dog Vendor.
(Tom McCarthy-esque Transition Alert!)
In Crazy Hot Dog Vendor News, today is Crazy Hot Dog Vendor Bank Day! So, we've got a grudge match against the Pestiferously Heinous Rock Cats, CHDV banks, Dollar Hot Dogs, Postgame Kids Run the Bases, and Mike Stutes on the mound. There is no way this game doesn't sell out.
The Clearwater Threshers lost to the Sarasota Reds, 4-3, in twelve (not-long) innings. (The twelve innings only took three hours and twenty-three minutes to play.)
A tough loss, but let's look at some positives, and focus on process over results:
-the Threshers did not play the Brevard County Manatees (i.e. Sea Cows of Doom)
-Dominic Brown and Freddy Galvis are back in the lineup
-Steve Susdorf had two more hits (though the 2 for 5 night lowered his avg. to only .414)
-Northpaw Drew Naylor had a superb start: seven innings, two runs (one earned), six hits, zero walks/one strikeout, one HR allowed
-Drew Naylor's middle name is "Roy", meaning the number of syllables in his first and middle names sums to the number of syllables in his surname. (Phillies' great James Paul Bunning also could make that claim.)
-Carlos Monasterios pitched two scoreless innings, followed by Michael Schwimmer, who threw two scoreless frames (no hits, no walks, five whiffs!) of his own
-the Threshers don't face the Pernicious Sea Cows again, until August 25th
In the opener, FeHogs' starter Gustavo Chacin surrendered five runs in five and one-third innings (six hits, two walks/one strikeout, two HR allowed), but the FeHogs scored seven runs, and the game lasted only seven innings, so Chacin received his fourth win. Jack Taschner picked up save with a scoreless seventh inning, a crisp twenty-three pitch/twelve-strike outing.
In the second game, IronPigs' starter Carlos Carrasco permitted three runs, over six, mostly strong, innings. He allowed two home runs, scoring all three of the runs, but only six total hits (zero walks/eight strikeouts!).
Michael Taylor went 2 for 4, including his first AAA home run. Expect to see him on the postseason roster. For the parent club.
Drew Carpenter will try to get the FeHogs back to .500, tonight at 5:35pm. Tune in!
The Reading Phillies (AA) were pounded by the New Britain Rock Cats, 11-3. The R-Phils have had no luck with the Rock Cats this season. Six losses for the R-Phils. A .349 avg. for the Rock Cats. To put things into a useful context, the Rock Cats, at least when playing the R-Phils, are the Sea Cows of the Eastern League.
R-Phils starter Joe Savery lost for only the second time (in fourteen decisions), surrendering six runs in five innings (eight hits, five walks (!)/five strikeouts, one HR allowed), and increasing his ERA to 3.83. (The R-Phils had Yohan Flande, Kyle Drabek, and Joe Savery lined up to start the Stone Felines' series, and still couldn't pick up a victory.)
Tyson Brummett pitched an inning in relief, allowing a run, and boosting his ERA to 4.96. After losing his rotation spot to Flande, Brummett remains in danger of losing his roster spot to Crazy Hot Dog Vendor.
(Tom McCarthy-esque Transition Alert!)
In Crazy Hot Dog Vendor News, today is Crazy Hot Dog Vendor Bank Day! So, we've got a grudge match against the Pestiferously Heinous Rock Cats, CHDV banks, Dollar Hot Dogs, Postgame Kids Run the Bases, and Mike Stutes on the mound. There is no way this game doesn't sell out.
The Clearwater Threshers lost to the Sarasota Reds, 4-3, in twelve (not-long) innings. (The twelve innings only took three hours and twenty-three minutes to play.)
A tough loss, but let's look at some positives, and focus on process over results:
-the Threshers did not play the Brevard County Manatees (i.e. Sea Cows of Doom)
-Dominic Brown and Freddy Galvis are back in the lineup
-Steve Susdorf had two more hits (though the 2 for 5 night lowered his avg. to only .414)
-Northpaw Drew Naylor had a superb start: seven innings, two runs (one earned), six hits, zero walks/one strikeout, one HR allowed
-Drew Naylor's middle name is "Roy", meaning the number of syllables in his first and middle names sums to the number of syllables in his surname. (Phillies' great James Paul Bunning also could make that claim.)
-Carlos Monasterios pitched two scoreless innings, followed by Michael Schwimmer, who threw two scoreless frames (no hits, no walks, five whiffs!) of his own
-the Threshers don't face the Pernicious Sea Cows again, until August 25th
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Pedro Officially (Unofficially) a Phillie, All-Star Action
Multiple sources are reporting that free agent pitcher Pedro Martinez has agreed to terms with the Phillies, on a contract for the remainder of the 2009 season (including the playoffs, World Series, and post-Series parade).
Martinez will, reportedly, earn $1 million, plus a possible $1.5 million in incentives. A press conference will be held Wednesday. Martinez will report to the minors, for an immediate rehab assignment, likely lasting until the end of July (three starts?)
It's not clear where he will start his minor league assignment, at this point.
(Let me take this opportunity to recommend that he start in Reading (AA). I'd give him the ball this Sunday, at home against the Rock Cats, with R-Phils starter Mike Stutes taking over once Martinez hits his pitch limit. The Martinez/Stutes combo would follow Yohan Flande, Kyle Drabek, and Joe Savery, and precede Vance Worley in the rotation. After one or two starts with Reading, he could make one or two starts in Lehigh Valley (AAA), sharing Brian Mazone's spot in the rotation. Mazone, who has spent most of the season as a reliever, could replace Martinez in the fifth/sixth inning. This would, hopefully, minimize disruption to the starting pitchers currently at each level.)
The Phillies missed an opportunity by waiting until Wednesday for the official Martinez announcement. I'm guessing that Bud Selig and the MLB Overlords would have been all for this plan:
*********************************************************************************
(All-Star Game, St. Louis, Bottom of the 1st Inning)
(Cardinals' All-Star Albert Pujols strides to the plate, amidst raucous cheers.)
PA Announcer: May I have your attention, please. Philadelphia Phillies General Manager Ruben Amaro has a brief announcement.
(Crowd is startled, but there are few boos. Because: St. Louis.)
(Amaro exits the National League dugout, and walks, purposefully, to the mound. He is wearing a suit, carrying a Phillies cap in his left hand, and a microphone in his right. American League starting pitcher Roy Halladay steps off the rubber, from where Amaro addresses the crowd.)
Amaro: Thank you. The Philadelphia Phillies would like to announce that Pedro Martinez has agreed to terms with the organization. Martinez will join the team for the remainder of the season, and he will share a float with Jimmy Rollins, in the World Championship parade.
(There are scattered cheers from the crowd, with the only boos coming from non-St. Louis fans. Albert Pujols, now in the on-deck circle, applauds.)
Amaro: Just one more quick thing. The Phillies are also pleased to announce the acquisition of starting pitcher Roy Halladay.
(Roy Halladay removes his Blue Jays uniform top, revealing a Phillies uniform underneath. Amaro hands him the Phillies hat. Amaro and Halladay leave the mound, and head to the NL dugout, where Halladay is greeted by some of his new Phillies teammates.)
Amaro (to Jayson Werth): Jayson, we should talk...
Shane Victorino (to Halladay): (shows Halladay his WS ring) We're going to get another one of these. No questions asked.
**********************************************************************************
The AAA All-Star Game will take place Wednesday night, at 10pm Eastern time.
The game will be aired, live, on ESPN2. Andrew Carpenter, Mike Cervenak, and Andy Tracy will represent the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Joe Morgan will not represent ESPN2 on this broadcast, which is more than reason enough to tune in.
The AA All-Star Game will take place Wednesday night, at 7pm Eastern time.
This is the All-Star Game I want to see. Naturally, it does not appear to be televised. (Hopefully, there will be a broadcast somewhere on the internets.) The Reading Phillies will be represented by Vance Worley, Joe Savery, Neil Sellers, Michael Taylor, and Quintin Berry. (Kyle Drabek has only pitched 46.2 innings at AA (61.2 in A) this season, or else he would probably be on the team.)
The Clearwater Threshers (A) play their next game Wednesday night, against the Brevard County Manatees. The First Place/Juggernaut Sea Cows?! Again?! Who makes this schedule?
Martinez will, reportedly, earn $1 million, plus a possible $1.5 million in incentives. A press conference will be held Wednesday. Martinez will report to the minors, for an immediate rehab assignment, likely lasting until the end of July (three starts?)
It's not clear where he will start his minor league assignment, at this point.
(Let me take this opportunity to recommend that he start in Reading (AA). I'd give him the ball this Sunday, at home against the Rock Cats, with R-Phils starter Mike Stutes taking over once Martinez hits his pitch limit. The Martinez/Stutes combo would follow Yohan Flande, Kyle Drabek, and Joe Savery, and precede Vance Worley in the rotation. After one or two starts with Reading, he could make one or two starts in Lehigh Valley (AAA), sharing Brian Mazone's spot in the rotation. Mazone, who has spent most of the season as a reliever, could replace Martinez in the fifth/sixth inning. This would, hopefully, minimize disruption to the starting pitchers currently at each level.)
The Phillies missed an opportunity by waiting until Wednesday for the official Martinez announcement. I'm guessing that Bud Selig and the MLB Overlords would have been all for this plan:
*********************************************************************************
(All-Star Game, St. Louis, Bottom of the 1st Inning)
(Cardinals' All-Star Albert Pujols strides to the plate, amidst raucous cheers.)
PA Announcer: May I have your attention, please. Philadelphia Phillies General Manager Ruben Amaro has a brief announcement.
(Crowd is startled, but there are few boos. Because: St. Louis.)
(Amaro exits the National League dugout, and walks, purposefully, to the mound. He is wearing a suit, carrying a Phillies cap in his left hand, and a microphone in his right. American League starting pitcher Roy Halladay steps off the rubber, from where Amaro addresses the crowd.)
Amaro: Thank you. The Philadelphia Phillies would like to announce that Pedro Martinez has agreed to terms with the organization. Martinez will join the team for the remainder of the season, and he will share a float with Jimmy Rollins, in the World Championship parade.
(There are scattered cheers from the crowd, with the only boos coming from non-St. Louis fans. Albert Pujols, now in the on-deck circle, applauds.)
Amaro: Just one more quick thing. The Phillies are also pleased to announce the acquisition of starting pitcher Roy Halladay.
(Roy Halladay removes his Blue Jays uniform top, revealing a Phillies uniform underneath. Amaro hands him the Phillies hat. Amaro and Halladay leave the mound, and head to the NL dugout, where Halladay is greeted by some of his new Phillies teammates.)
Amaro (to Jayson Werth): Jayson, we should talk...
Shane Victorino (to Halladay): (shows Halladay his WS ring) We're going to get another one of these. No questions asked.
**********************************************************************************
The AAA All-Star Game will take place Wednesday night, at 10pm Eastern time.
The game will be aired, live, on ESPN2. Andrew Carpenter, Mike Cervenak, and Andy Tracy will represent the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Joe Morgan will not represent ESPN2 on this broadcast, which is more than reason enough to tune in.
The AA All-Star Game will take place Wednesday night, at 7pm Eastern time.
This is the All-Star Game I want to see. Naturally, it does not appear to be televised. (Hopefully, there will be a broadcast somewhere on the internets.) The Reading Phillies will be represented by Vance Worley, Joe Savery, Neil Sellers, Michael Taylor, and Quintin Berry. (Kyle Drabek has only pitched 46.2 innings at AA (61.2 in A) this season, or else he would probably be on the team.)
The Clearwater Threshers (A) play their next game Wednesday night, against the Brevard County Manatees. The First Place/Juggernaut Sea Cows?! Again?! Who makes this schedule?
Friday, July 10, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/9)
Raul Ibanez (completed?) his rehab with Lehigh Valley on Thursday night. Ibanez went 1 for 3 with a double, two walks, and two RBI. He announced that he is ready to return to the P-Phils lineup immediately, but no roster move has been made as of yet.
Lehigh Valley (AAA) scored four runs in the eighth, after trailing 3-2, and beat the Scranton-Wilkes Barre Yankees, 6-3. Gustavo Chacin got the victory, surrendering three runs over seven innings (six hits, three walks/five strikeouts). Cedrick Bowers followed with two scoreless frames, for his fourth save (ERA now: 1.30).
The Reading Phillies (AA) defeated the Akron Aeros, 7-4. Jeremy Slayden had three doubles (BA now: .377), Tuffy Gosewisch had two doubles (three hits total), and Neil Sellers had three singles (BA now: .315). Joe Savery had a poor outing (six and two-thirds innings, eight hits, four runs, three walks/four strikeouts), but picked up his twelfth win (ERA now: 3.48).
The Clearwater Threshers (A) were thrashed in their doubleheader against the Brevard County Manatees, losing 5-0, and 11-0. Ugly night for the Threshers, who were held to six hits (and made three errors), in the fourteen innings played. The first-place Manatees had eight All-Stars selected, and were playing in the friendly (to them) confines of Space Coast Stadium, so it was a tough matchup for the Threshers. If it wasn't before, it is certainly now time to Fear the Sea Cow!
Lehigh Valley (AAA) scored four runs in the eighth, after trailing 3-2, and beat the Scranton-Wilkes Barre Yankees, 6-3. Gustavo Chacin got the victory, surrendering three runs over seven innings (six hits, three walks/five strikeouts). Cedrick Bowers followed with two scoreless frames, for his fourth save (ERA now: 1.30).
The Reading Phillies (AA) defeated the Akron Aeros, 7-4. Jeremy Slayden had three doubles (BA now: .377), Tuffy Gosewisch had two doubles (three hits total), and Neil Sellers had three singles (BA now: .315). Joe Savery had a poor outing (six and two-thirds innings, eight hits, four runs, three walks/four strikeouts), but picked up his twelfth win (ERA now: 3.48).
The Clearwater Threshers (A) were thrashed in their doubleheader against the Brevard County Manatees, losing 5-0, and 11-0. Ugly night for the Threshers, who were held to six hits (and made three errors), in the fourteen innings played. The first-place Manatees had eight All-Stars selected, and were playing in the friendly (to them) confines of Space Coast Stadium, so it was a tough matchup for the Threshers. If it wasn't before, it is certainly now time to Fear the Sea Cow!
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Bunts and Balks (Taschner Independence Weekend Edition)
Jack Taschner was finally removed from the Phillies' roster, as he was DFA'd on Friday. Taschner was jettisoned to open a roster spot for starter Rodrigo Lopez. Taschner departs with a 5.20 ERA, 5.61 WHIP, and a .85 K/BB. It was likely Taschner's 835K guaranteed contract that kept him at the MLB level, as Manager Charlie Manuel had almost no confidence in the southpaw. Taschner was acquired in exchange for catcher Ronny Paulino, who had been acquired for catcher Jason Jaramillo. Either of those two backstops would have, likely, contributed more to the organization.
Taschner thanked the Phillies for doing him a solid, and designating him for assignment, rather than simply optioning him to Lehigh Valley (AAA). But the Phillies may be hopeful of at least getting off the hook for a portion of his salary, if another team picks him up for the MLB minimum. (It doesn't seem likely that another team will pick him up within ten days, and pay him his full MLB salary. It wouldn't be surprising if no team picks him up, and he joins the IronPigs.)
Paul Bako started behind the plate Saturday, for the third time in four games. This is rather puzzling. Is the slumping Carlos Ruiz injured? Chris Coste, also? Are they showcasing Bako for a trade, hoping that the increased time at the MLB level will help them acquire a mediocre A-ball reliever, rather than a terrible A-ball reliever, for the offensively-challenged receiver? Bako has done about as well as expected at the plate, with a .214 BA/.278 wOBA.
Scott Eyre returns to the Phillies on Sunday. Sergio Escalona was optioned to the IronPigs (again) to open a roster spot. Eyre's presence should push reliever Tyler Walker into Jack Taschner's ultra-low leverage role.
At least Escalona is making MLB money, and accumulating MLB service time, during his abbreviated appearances on the Phils' roster.
Raul Ibanez has returned to Philadelphia, as his minor league rehab has been postponed. The Phils hope Ibanez will be able to return to his rehab assignment this week. It's a bit disconcerting that he was sent to Reading for rehab, and then returned to Philly without any game action.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs lost their third game in a row on Saturday, blowing a 2-1 ninth-inning lead, in a 3-2 twelve-inning loss. On Friday, the FeHogs lost both games of their First Ever Day-Night Doubleheader. Starter Brian Mazone, on a low pitch count, pitched two innings in Friday's 12:35pm loss, 4-0, to the Syracuse SkyChiefs. In the second game, a 7-1 loss, Andrew Carpenter permitted seven runs (five earned), on ten hits (three walks/six strikeouts), in five and two-thirds innings.
In Saturday night's come-from-ahead loss, Gary Majewski blew a two-inning save opportunity, wasting Gustavo Chacin's strong start (seven and one-third innings, seven hits, one run, one walk/five strikeouts).
The FeHogs fell to four games under .500, after their historic ascent to the .500 mark, for the first time ever, ended last week.
The Reading Phillies (AA) won in eleven innings on Friday, 4-3 over the Altoona Curve. The R-Phils only needed nine inning on Saturday, defeating the Connecticut Defenders, 7-5. On Friday, Mike Stutes permitted three runs (seven hits, zero walks/five strikeouts) over six innings, and the bullpen (rehabbing Scott Eyre, Mike Zagurski, Alex Concepcion, and Jason Mackintosh) followed with five scoreless frames. In Saturday's win, Joe Savery was touched for five runs over seven innings (ten hits, two walks/four strikeouts), but still recorded his eleventh win.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) lost to the Dunedin Blue Jays, 10-5 on Friday, and 8-1 on Saturday. Friday night's starter, Julian Sampson, was bombed for seven earned runs, in only three and two-thirds innings (seven hits, four walks/four strikeouts). Saturday's starter, Tyler Cloyd surrendered five runs (two earned) over five and two-thirds innings (eight hits, three walks/one strikeout). Cloyd obtained two outs on the ground, and fourteen through the air, not a very CBP-viable ratio.
Taschner thanked the Phillies for doing him a solid, and designating him for assignment, rather than simply optioning him to Lehigh Valley (AAA). But the Phillies may be hopeful of at least getting off the hook for a portion of his salary, if another team picks him up for the MLB minimum. (It doesn't seem likely that another team will pick him up within ten days, and pay him his full MLB salary. It wouldn't be surprising if no team picks him up, and he joins the IronPigs.)
Paul Bako started behind the plate Saturday, for the third time in four games. This is rather puzzling. Is the slumping Carlos Ruiz injured? Chris Coste, also? Are they showcasing Bako for a trade, hoping that the increased time at the MLB level will help them acquire a mediocre A-ball reliever, rather than a terrible A-ball reliever, for the offensively-challenged receiver? Bako has done about as well as expected at the plate, with a .214 BA/.278 wOBA.
Scott Eyre returns to the Phillies on Sunday. Sergio Escalona was optioned to the IronPigs (again) to open a roster spot. Eyre's presence should push reliever Tyler Walker into Jack Taschner's ultra-low leverage role.
At least Escalona is making MLB money, and accumulating MLB service time, during his abbreviated appearances on the Phils' roster.
Raul Ibanez has returned to Philadelphia, as his minor league rehab has been postponed. The Phils hope Ibanez will be able to return to his rehab assignment this week. It's a bit disconcerting that he was sent to Reading for rehab, and then returned to Philly without any game action.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs lost their third game in a row on Saturday, blowing a 2-1 ninth-inning lead, in a 3-2 twelve-inning loss. On Friday, the FeHogs lost both games of their First Ever Day-Night Doubleheader. Starter Brian Mazone, on a low pitch count, pitched two innings in Friday's 12:35pm loss, 4-0, to the Syracuse SkyChiefs. In the second game, a 7-1 loss, Andrew Carpenter permitted seven runs (five earned), on ten hits (three walks/six strikeouts), in five and two-thirds innings.
In Saturday night's come-from-ahead loss, Gary Majewski blew a two-inning save opportunity, wasting Gustavo Chacin's strong start (seven and one-third innings, seven hits, one run, one walk/five strikeouts).
The FeHogs fell to four games under .500, after their historic ascent to the .500 mark, for the first time ever, ended last week.
The Reading Phillies (AA) won in eleven innings on Friday, 4-3 over the Altoona Curve. The R-Phils only needed nine inning on Saturday, defeating the Connecticut Defenders, 7-5. On Friday, Mike Stutes permitted three runs (seven hits, zero walks/five strikeouts) over six innings, and the bullpen (rehabbing Scott Eyre, Mike Zagurski, Alex Concepcion, and Jason Mackintosh) followed with five scoreless frames. In Saturday's win, Joe Savery was touched for five runs over seven innings (ten hits, two walks/four strikeouts), but still recorded his eleventh win.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) lost to the Dunedin Blue Jays, 10-5 on Friday, and 8-1 on Saturday. Friday night's starter, Julian Sampson, was bombed for seven earned runs, in only three and two-thirds innings (seven hits, four walks/four strikeouts). Saturday's starter, Tyler Cloyd surrendered five runs (two earned) over five and two-thirds innings (eight hits, three walks/one strikeout). Cloyd obtained two outs on the ground, and fourteen through the air, not a very CBP-viable ratio.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/1)
The Phillies announced that Lehigh Valley (AAA) starting pitcher Rodrigo Lopez will be recalled for Friday night's start against the New York Mets. The Phillies chose "experience" over "skill", at least for Friday's start. Lopez has pitched well recently, and the Phillies wanted to see how the 33 year old veteran northpaw would do at the MLB level. Before TJ surgery in 2007, Lopez had a 4.42 ERA/1.31 WHIP with Colorado. Lopez would have to pass waivers to return to AAA, so he'll likely be given a few starts for the P-Phils, before they decide whether he is rotation-worthy. (He may be able to stick as a reliever, also.)
Carlos Carrasco certainly has more upside, and the potential to be a top-of-the-rotation starter, but the Phils opted not to recall him. Yet. Perhaps they wanted to protect his delicate psyche? Perhaps they wanted to protect his trade value, which could decrease with some struggles at the MLB level? Perhaps they want to give him more AAA time, to work on his slider?
I think Carrasco should have been given the start. (Lopez could be promoted as a long reliever/spot starter to get some MLB time, at the expense of the roster spot of Jack Taschner (or Paul Bako).
It has not been announced who will lose their P-Phils roster spot to Lopez.
Jimmy Rollins went 0 for 3 Wednesday, decreasing his average to .205. Going 0 for 27 tends to have an adverse effect on batting averages. Going 6 for 55, isn't helpful, either. Still better than Bruntlett...
Paul Bako started behind the plate on Wednesday night. Charlie Manuel said something to the extent of "he's on the roster, I have to use him", when asked about Bako's inclusion in the starting lineup. I'm sure Phillies' starter Cole Hamels appreciated that logic.
Scott Eyre pitched for Reading (AA) in a rehab appearance on Wednesday night. Eyre, on a pitch limit of 25, allowed a home run to the first batter he faced. When he departed, having hit his pitch count, the bases were loaded, with two out. Kyle Drabek got out of the jam, and Eyre was only charged with one run, on two hits and a walk.
Raul Ibanez was expected to make a rehab appearance for Reading, but did not. Ibanez took batting practice, and is expected to play Thursday. Looks like he will be out for the entirety of the Mets' series...
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) did not have a game scheduled for Wednesday.
The FeHogs face the Syracuse Chiefs on Thursday night, with Carlos Carrasco slated to start.
The Reading Phillies (AA) trailed 4-0 going into the bottom of the second, but came back to beat the Altoona Curve, 8-6. Reading scored six runs in the bottom of the second, two on a Michael Taylor home run. Taylor was 2 for 4, improving his average to .350.
1B Kevin Mahar (.312) had two hits, as did C Tuffy Gosewisch (.244).
Pitcher Kyle Drabek went 3 for 3, improving his batting average to .625. Drabek also kept his winning percentage at 1.000, with his fifth win. Drabek, pitching in relief of the rehabbing Eyre, pitched six and one-third innings, surrendering three runs (seven hits, three walks/four strikeouts). All three of the runs came in the second inning, perhaps not starting adversely affected his routine?
Tyson Brummett pitched in relief, again. It appears that he has lost his rotation spot to Yohan Flande.
The R-Phils had four players chosen to appear in the All-Star game. LHP Joe Savery, RHP Vance Worley, 3B Neil Sellers, and OF Michael Taylor will all travel to historic Trenton, N.J. for the Mid-Summer Classic on July 15th. Kyle Drabek's performance at the AA level might have made him worthy of inclusion, but he has only pitched 40 innings for Reading.
Drabek's next All-Star appearance will likely be in 2010, for Lehigh Valley.
The Clearwater Threshers swept a doubleheader from the Palm Beach Cardinals, winning 2-1 (seven innings), and 7-1 (six innings). Drew Naylor pitched seven strong innings in the opener, permitting a run on only four hits (zero walks/six strikeouts). Michael Galen Cisco surrendered only an unearned run in the second game, pitching five innings (four hits, one walk/three strikeouts).
Carlos Carrasco certainly has more upside, and the potential to be a top-of-the-rotation starter, but the Phils opted not to recall him. Yet. Perhaps they wanted to protect his delicate psyche? Perhaps they wanted to protect his trade value, which could decrease with some struggles at the MLB level? Perhaps they want to give him more AAA time, to work on his slider?
I think Carrasco should have been given the start. (Lopez could be promoted as a long reliever/spot starter to get some MLB time, at the expense of the roster spot of Jack Taschner (or Paul Bako).
It has not been announced who will lose their P-Phils roster spot to Lopez.
Jimmy Rollins went 0 for 3 Wednesday, decreasing his average to .205. Going 0 for 27 tends to have an adverse effect on batting averages. Going 6 for 55, isn't helpful, either. Still better than Bruntlett...
Paul Bako started behind the plate on Wednesday night. Charlie Manuel said something to the extent of "he's on the roster, I have to use him", when asked about Bako's inclusion in the starting lineup. I'm sure Phillies' starter Cole Hamels appreciated that logic.
Scott Eyre pitched for Reading (AA) in a rehab appearance on Wednesday night. Eyre, on a pitch limit of 25, allowed a home run to the first batter he faced. When he departed, having hit his pitch count, the bases were loaded, with two out. Kyle Drabek got out of the jam, and Eyre was only charged with one run, on two hits and a walk.
Raul Ibanez was expected to make a rehab appearance for Reading, but did not. Ibanez took batting practice, and is expected to play Thursday. Looks like he will be out for the entirety of the Mets' series...
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) did not have a game scheduled for Wednesday.
The FeHogs face the Syracuse Chiefs on Thursday night, with Carlos Carrasco slated to start.
The Reading Phillies (AA) trailed 4-0 going into the bottom of the second, but came back to beat the Altoona Curve, 8-6. Reading scored six runs in the bottom of the second, two on a Michael Taylor home run. Taylor was 2 for 4, improving his average to .350.
1B Kevin Mahar (.312) had two hits, as did C Tuffy Gosewisch (.244).
Pitcher Kyle Drabek went 3 for 3, improving his batting average to .625. Drabek also kept his winning percentage at 1.000, with his fifth win. Drabek, pitching in relief of the rehabbing Eyre, pitched six and one-third innings, surrendering three runs (seven hits, three walks/four strikeouts). All three of the runs came in the second inning, perhaps not starting adversely affected his routine?
Tyson Brummett pitched in relief, again. It appears that he has lost his rotation spot to Yohan Flande.
The R-Phils had four players chosen to appear in the All-Star game. LHP Joe Savery, RHP Vance Worley, 3B Neil Sellers, and OF Michael Taylor will all travel to historic Trenton, N.J. for the Mid-Summer Classic on July 15th. Kyle Drabek's performance at the AA level might have made him worthy of inclusion, but he has only pitched 40 innings for Reading.
Drabek's next All-Star appearance will likely be in 2010, for Lehigh Valley.
The Clearwater Threshers swept a doubleheader from the Palm Beach Cardinals, winning 2-1 (seven innings), and 7-1 (six innings). Drew Naylor pitched seven strong innings in the opener, permitting a run on only four hits (zero walks/six strikeouts). Michael Galen Cisco surrendered only an unearned run in the second game, pitching five innings (four hits, one walk/three strikeouts).
Monday, June 29, 2009
Bunts and Balks (6/29)
Chase Utley and Raul Ibanez have sizeable leads at their respective positions in All-Star voting. It looks like Utley and Ibanez will start, and that they will be the only Phils' starters.
Raul Ibanez is eligible to return from the DL on Friday, but is not expected to be ready at that point. Hopefully, he'll be ready by next week?
Antonio Bastardo was placed on the DL, with Sergio Escalona optioned (again) back to the P-Phils to take his roster spot. This move probably could have been made in time for Escalona to be available for the Jays' series.
No one has been officially announced to take Bastardo's rotation spot. Most of the speculation seems to lean towards Carlos Carrasco.
Scott Eyre starts his rehab on Wednesday, and hopes to return this weekend. Jack Taschner, Tyler Walker, Paul Bako, and Sergio Escalona (again) may be in danger of receiving a trip to scenic Lehigh Valley. Bako gets my vote, a move which would return the bullpen to a "Plus Eight."
Tyler Walker has been outstanding out of the pen, with seven scoreless innings. Walker has also permitted six of nine inherited runners to score, violently scarring the ERAs of others. Don't get too excited.
Former Phillies P Paul Fletcher was shown hitting Craig Biggio with a pitch in a clip on MLB Tonight. I have no recollection of Paul Fletcher. Not acceptable. Edward Paul Fletcher pitched 13.1 innings in relief, during the 1995 season, with a 5.40 ERA/1.8 WHIP. His baseball reference page is available for only $5!
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) lost 6-1, to the Norfolk Tides, on Monday night.
At least the FeHogs have now spent one day of their history at .500. Gustavo Chacin permitted six runs in five innings, but only one run was earned.
The Reading Phillies (AA) blasted the Trenton Thunder, 10-1. The victory was not a surprise, as ace Joe Savery was on the mound. Savery improved his record to 10-1, with six shutout innings (two hits, four walks/two strikeouts). Michael Taylor went 4 for 5, improving his average to .351. Kevin Mahar went 4 for 4, improving to .308.
Yohan Flande was promoted to Reading from the Clearwater Threshers (A). Flande was outstanding with the Threshers, with a 7-1 record, 2.52 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, and a 2.79 K/BB ratio (82 IP). The R-Phils website does not list the transaction (the Threshers' does), and lists the Tuesday starting pitcher as "TBA." Flande was scheduled to start Tuesday night, so he is the likely "TBA."
Tyson Brummett's spot in the rotation appears to have been skipped, as his fifth day would have been Monday. (Brummett pitched an inning in relief, facing five batters, on Monday night.) Barring a promotion to AAA (Savery?), Brummett seems likely to spend some time in the bullpen with Flande, Kyle Drabek, Vance Worley, Mike Stutes, and Joe Savery comprising the five-man rotation. (Unless Reading goes to a six-man rotation, which would be a good way to keep innings counts down? In that case Brummett might rejoin the rotation this weekend, perhaps on Saturday, giving Savery an extra day?)
The Clearwater Threshers remained undefeated in their second half, winning their fifth consecutive game, 9-8. After four consecutive extra-inning wins over the Jupiter Hammerheads, the Threshers did not require extra time to beat the Palm Beach Cardinals. Clearwater was outhit 15-9, but used two four-run innings to win a see-saw battle. Newly-promoted 22 year-old righty Travis Cloyd, who took Flande's roster spot, struggled in his debut. Cloyd surrendered four runs in five and two-thirds innings, on nine hits and one walk/two strikeouts.
Raul Ibanez is eligible to return from the DL on Friday, but is not expected to be ready at that point. Hopefully, he'll be ready by next week?
Antonio Bastardo was placed on the DL, with Sergio Escalona optioned (again) back to the P-Phils to take his roster spot. This move probably could have been made in time for Escalona to be available for the Jays' series.
No one has been officially announced to take Bastardo's rotation spot. Most of the speculation seems to lean towards Carlos Carrasco.
Scott Eyre starts his rehab on Wednesday, and hopes to return this weekend. Jack Taschner, Tyler Walker, Paul Bako, and Sergio Escalona (again) may be in danger of receiving a trip to scenic Lehigh Valley. Bako gets my vote, a move which would return the bullpen to a "Plus Eight."
Tyler Walker has been outstanding out of the pen, with seven scoreless innings. Walker has also permitted six of nine inherited runners to score, violently scarring the ERAs of others. Don't get too excited.
Former Phillies P Paul Fletcher was shown hitting Craig Biggio with a pitch in a clip on MLB Tonight. I have no recollection of Paul Fletcher. Not acceptable. Edward Paul Fletcher pitched 13.1 innings in relief, during the 1995 season, with a 5.40 ERA/1.8 WHIP. His baseball reference page is available for only $5!
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) lost 6-1, to the Norfolk Tides, on Monday night.
At least the FeHogs have now spent one day of their history at .500. Gustavo Chacin permitted six runs in five innings, but only one run was earned.
The Reading Phillies (AA) blasted the Trenton Thunder, 10-1. The victory was not a surprise, as ace Joe Savery was on the mound. Savery improved his record to 10-1, with six shutout innings (two hits, four walks/two strikeouts). Michael Taylor went 4 for 5, improving his average to .351. Kevin Mahar went 4 for 4, improving to .308.
Yohan Flande was promoted to Reading from the Clearwater Threshers (A). Flande was outstanding with the Threshers, with a 7-1 record, 2.52 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, and a 2.79 K/BB ratio (82 IP). The R-Phils website does not list the transaction (the Threshers' does), and lists the Tuesday starting pitcher as "TBA." Flande was scheduled to start Tuesday night, so he is the likely "TBA."
Tyson Brummett's spot in the rotation appears to have been skipped, as his fifth day would have been Monday. (Brummett pitched an inning in relief, facing five batters, on Monday night.) Barring a promotion to AAA (Savery?), Brummett seems likely to spend some time in the bullpen with Flande, Kyle Drabek, Vance Worley, Mike Stutes, and Joe Savery comprising the five-man rotation. (Unless Reading goes to a six-man rotation, which would be a good way to keep innings counts down? In that case Brummett might rejoin the rotation this weekend, perhaps on Saturday, giving Savery an extra day?)
The Clearwater Threshers remained undefeated in their second half, winning their fifth consecutive game, 9-8. After four consecutive extra-inning wins over the Jupiter Hammerheads, the Threshers did not require extra time to beat the Palm Beach Cardinals. Clearwater was outhit 15-9, but used two four-run innings to win a see-saw battle. Newly-promoted 22 year-old righty Travis Cloyd, who took Flande's roster spot, struggled in his debut. Cloyd surrendered four runs in five and two-thirds innings, on nine hits and one walk/two strikeouts.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Bunts and Balks (6/27)
Reliever J.C. Romero was involved in a postgame incident in Tampa on Thursday.
Romero, allegedly, pushed a man, and grabbed him around the neck. The man had requested Romero's assistance in acquiring some steroids. Romero should have just ignored the jackass. If Romero did instigate physical contact, a suspension is very possible. Perhaps Sergio Escalona will get to stay with the P-Phils for more than a few days this time...
It has been announced that Antonio Bastardo will be unable to make his start on Wednesday, due his shoulder injury. Cole Hamels will move up a day in the rotation, and pitch on Wednesday. Hamels will still be pitching on his regular fifth day. Carlos Carrasco is expected to be promoted from Lehigh Valley (AAA) to make the start on Thursday.
Andrew Carpenter is 7-1 with a 2.75 ERA for Lehigh Valley. Carrasco is 4-7 with a 4.92 ERA for the IronPigs. Why would Carrasco be chosen over Carpenter?
Win-loss record is not the best stat to look at when comparing hurlers. Carrasco has a 3.50 FIP, and has been unlucky (.349 BABIP and 61.7 LOB%). Carpenter has a 4.35 FIP, and has been lucky (.274 BABIP and 82.3 LOB%). Carrasco has been the better pitcher this season and, arguably, is the more promising prospect of the two.
If Bastardo won't be available to pitch for more than a week, and Carrasco won't be needed until Thursday, why not recall a bullpen arm in the interim?
I got nothin'.
Jimmy Rollins continues to ride the bench, with Eric Bruntlett replacing him in the lineup for the fourth consecutive game on Sunday.
Giving the slumping Rollins five days off in a row, including Monday's off day, isn't the worst idea. The worst idea is starting the .129 BA-ing, .189 wOBA-ing Bruntlett in four consecutive games.
Reading (AA) Phillies starting pitcher Joe Savery may face suspension, after hurling a ball into the stands during Friday night's suspended game.
The Friday night game never should have been started, as the conditions were unplayable. Savery's scoreless streak ended when he allowed a first-inning run in the rain, and the game was suspended in the second inning, after Savery was sent to the mound in a thunderstorm. The mismanagement by the umpires cost Savery a start. Savery chucked a ball into the stands, which could have been very problematic, IF THE STANDS WEREN'T EMPTY BECAUSE: THUNDER AND LIGHTNING! Savery had reason to be frustrated, but could have handled things better. He'll probably miss another start, due to a suspension, but attending an Anger Management class (with J.C. Romero?) should be sufficient punishment.
In another tale of Umpire Mismanagement, it was announced that the umpires had erred when requesting an instant replay in Tampa. The replay was called for in order to examine a ground-rule double, but the instant replay rules only apply to home run calls. The League should simply adjust the standings, giving the Phils wins against Tampa, and against Boston (for the Dobbs walk-off homer over the foul pole), and we'll all put the matter behind us. Bygones and whatnot...
In Saturday night action, the IronPigs defeated the Norfolk Tides, 5-0. The FeHogs scored four in the first, and that was all they needed. Carpenter won his seventh game, with eight scoreless innings (five hits, one walk/seven strikeouts). Mike Spidale, back in the leadoff spot, went 3 for 4, pacing a fourteen-hit attack.
The Reading Phillies (AA) lost the completion of their suspended game from Friday, 8-2, to the Trenton Thunder. The R-Phils would likely have had more luck, if the game had been rained out on Friday, and Joe Savery had been able to start on Saturday.
The R-Phils won their regularly-scheduled game, 7-2. Starter Vance Worley pitched six innings (of the seven played), permitting only a pair of runs, and picking up his fifth victory. Worley allowed six hits and a walk (three strikeouts). Jeremy Slayden had a home run, though his 1 for 4 game dropped his average to .395. Michael Taylor is at .337, after a 2 for 3 game.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) scored five in the eleventh inning, beating the Jupiter Hammerheads, 8-3. Julian Sampson had one of the strongest starts of his season, surrendering three runs, in six and two-thirds innings (five hits, one walk/one strikeout). Outfielder Steve Susdorf, who hit .333 in 78 AB at Lakewood, went 4 for 6, raising his Clearwater BA to .500 (1.105 OPS in 28 AB).
Romero, allegedly, pushed a man, and grabbed him around the neck. The man had requested Romero's assistance in acquiring some steroids. Romero should have just ignored the jackass. If Romero did instigate physical contact, a suspension is very possible. Perhaps Sergio Escalona will get to stay with the P-Phils for more than a few days this time...
It has been announced that Antonio Bastardo will be unable to make his start on Wednesday, due his shoulder injury. Cole Hamels will move up a day in the rotation, and pitch on Wednesday. Hamels will still be pitching on his regular fifth day. Carlos Carrasco is expected to be promoted from Lehigh Valley (AAA) to make the start on Thursday.
Andrew Carpenter is 7-1 with a 2.75 ERA for Lehigh Valley. Carrasco is 4-7 with a 4.92 ERA for the IronPigs. Why would Carrasco be chosen over Carpenter?
Win-loss record is not the best stat to look at when comparing hurlers. Carrasco has a 3.50 FIP, and has been unlucky (.349 BABIP and 61.7 LOB%). Carpenter has a 4.35 FIP, and has been lucky (.274 BABIP and 82.3 LOB%). Carrasco has been the better pitcher this season and, arguably, is the more promising prospect of the two.
If Bastardo won't be available to pitch for more than a week, and Carrasco won't be needed until Thursday, why not recall a bullpen arm in the interim?
I got nothin'.
Jimmy Rollins continues to ride the bench, with Eric Bruntlett replacing him in the lineup for the fourth consecutive game on Sunday.
Giving the slumping Rollins five days off in a row, including Monday's off day, isn't the worst idea. The worst idea is starting the .129 BA-ing, .189 wOBA-ing Bruntlett in four consecutive games.
Reading (AA) Phillies starting pitcher Joe Savery may face suspension, after hurling a ball into the stands during Friday night's suspended game.
The Friday night game never should have been started, as the conditions were unplayable. Savery's scoreless streak ended when he allowed a first-inning run in the rain, and the game was suspended in the second inning, after Savery was sent to the mound in a thunderstorm. The mismanagement by the umpires cost Savery a start. Savery chucked a ball into the stands, which could have been very problematic, IF THE STANDS WEREN'T EMPTY BECAUSE: THUNDER AND LIGHTNING! Savery had reason to be frustrated, but could have handled things better. He'll probably miss another start, due to a suspension, but attending an Anger Management class (with J.C. Romero?) should be sufficient punishment.
In another tale of Umpire Mismanagement, it was announced that the umpires had erred when requesting an instant replay in Tampa. The replay was called for in order to examine a ground-rule double, but the instant replay rules only apply to home run calls. The League should simply adjust the standings, giving the Phils wins against Tampa, and against Boston (for the Dobbs walk-off homer over the foul pole), and we'll all put the matter behind us. Bygones and whatnot...
In Saturday night action, the IronPigs defeated the Norfolk Tides, 5-0. The FeHogs scored four in the first, and that was all they needed. Carpenter won his seventh game, with eight scoreless innings (five hits, one walk/seven strikeouts). Mike Spidale, back in the leadoff spot, went 3 for 4, pacing a fourteen-hit attack.
The Reading Phillies (AA) lost the completion of their suspended game from Friday, 8-2, to the Trenton Thunder. The R-Phils would likely have had more luck, if the game had been rained out on Friday, and Joe Savery had been able to start on Saturday.
The R-Phils won their regularly-scheduled game, 7-2. Starter Vance Worley pitched six innings (of the seven played), permitting only a pair of runs, and picking up his fifth victory. Worley allowed six hits and a walk (three strikeouts). Jeremy Slayden had a home run, though his 1 for 4 game dropped his average to .395. Michael Taylor is at .337, after a 2 for 3 game.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) scored five in the eleventh inning, beating the Jupiter Hammerheads, 8-3. Julian Sampson had one of the strongest starts of his season, surrendering three runs, in six and two-thirds innings (five hits, one walk/one strikeout). Outfielder Steve Susdorf, who hit .333 in 78 AB at Lakewood, went 4 for 6, raising his Clearwater BA to .500 (1.105 OPS in 28 AB).
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Bunts and Balks (6/20)
Brad Lidge pitched a scoreless inning for Reading (AA) on Saturday night, and indicates that his knee feels "fine." Lidge has been indicating that his knee feels "fine" for most of the season. A good defensive play saved Lidge a run. Lidge is expected to return to the P-Phils this week, moving Ryan Madson back to the eighth inning, and (hopefully) Jack Taschner or Paul Bako to Lehigh Valley (AAA).
Ryan Howard was hospitalized with the flu, but left his hospital bed to hit a pinch-hit home run in Saturday's game. The blast would have been a game-winner, if interim closer Ryan Madson had been able to hold the lead. Howard returned to the hospital after the game, and was replaced in the lineup by Greg Dobbs on Saturday and Sunday. Howard's health is a huge concern.
Paul Bako started behind the plate for the Phillies on Saturday night. This never should have been permitted to happen.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) won their seventh game in a row on Saturday, 5-3, over the Norfolk Tides. The FeHogs are now only ten games out of first place. Carlos Carrasco pitched very well, permitting a single run, in seven strong innings. Carrasco surrendered five hits and two walks (five strikeouts). Recently-promoted outfielder Mike Spidale had three singles, in four plate appearances, increasing his average to .364. Listening to Jason Anderson close out the Tides in the ninth mitigated some of the pain from the P-Phils' crushing loss. (About .23% of the pain was mitigated.)
The Reading Phillies (AA) defeated the Harrisburg Senators, 6-2. Top outfield prospect Michael Taylor hit a grand slam. Top pitching prospect Joe Savery pitched five scoreless innings for his ninth win.
The FSL North squad, which included four members of the Clearwater Threshers (A), beat the FSL South, 6-4. Threshers Yohan Flande and Carlos Monasterios pitched scoreless innings. Tim Kennelly started at 1B, and went 0 for 4.
Ryan Howard was hospitalized with the flu, but left his hospital bed to hit a pinch-hit home run in Saturday's game. The blast would have been a game-winner, if interim closer Ryan Madson had been able to hold the lead. Howard returned to the hospital after the game, and was replaced in the lineup by Greg Dobbs on Saturday and Sunday. Howard's health is a huge concern.
Paul Bako started behind the plate for the Phillies on Saturday night. This never should have been permitted to happen.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) won their seventh game in a row on Saturday, 5-3, over the Norfolk Tides. The FeHogs are now only ten games out of first place. Carlos Carrasco pitched very well, permitting a single run, in seven strong innings. Carrasco surrendered five hits and two walks (five strikeouts). Recently-promoted outfielder Mike Spidale had three singles, in four plate appearances, increasing his average to .364. Listening to Jason Anderson close out the Tides in the ninth mitigated some of the pain from the P-Phils' crushing loss. (About .23% of the pain was mitigated.)
The Reading Phillies (AA) defeated the Harrisburg Senators, 6-2. Top outfield prospect Michael Taylor hit a grand slam. Top pitching prospect Joe Savery pitched five scoreless innings for his ninth win.
The FSL North squad, which included four members of the Clearwater Threshers (A), beat the FSL South, 6-4. Threshers Yohan Flande and Carlos Monasterios pitched scoreless innings. Tim Kennelly started at 1B, and went 0 for 4.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Bunts and Balks (6/15)
The Phillies made no personnel moves on Monday.
Jack Taschner and Antonio Bastardo remain on the roster. It wouldn't be surprising, if one of them was optioned to AAA, prior to Tuesday's game against Toronto.
The Phillies will need a starting pitcher on Friday (or Saturday) against Baltimore. (J.A. Happ would be on his regular day on Friday.) They haven't announced that Bastardo will remain in the rotation, and his one-inning start against Boston highlighted the need for more minor league seasoning.
Carlos Carrasco started Monday night for Lehigh Valley (AAA), and would be on his regular day on Saturday.
Andrew Carpenter is scheduled to start Tuesday night for Lehigh Valley, but could be scratched, and start for the Phils on Friday or Saturday.
If they decide that Carrasco or Carpenter will start this weekend, the Phils could option Bastardo prior to Tuesday's game, and recall another bullpen arm. (Preferably, a bullpen arm on the 40-Man roster, with options remaining. For example, Reading (AA) lefty Mike Zagurski.)
On Friday or Saturday, either Taschner or (Zagurski?) could be optioned, opening a spot for Carrasco or Carpenter. (The Taschner for Carrasco option gets my vote.)
Chase Utley, Raul Ibanez, and Jimmy Rollins lead at their positions in All-Star voting. Ryan Howard is in a distant second, behind Albert Pujols. Carlos Ruiz and Pedro Feliz are in fourth at their respective positions. Among outfielders, Shane Victorino is fifth, and Jayson Werth is eighth, with the top three vote-getters going to St. Louis.
Ruiz and Feliz may deserve spots, based on their performances this season. Rollins doesn't deserve a spot, based on his performance this season. Ryan Howard should go, but may lose out because there is a glut of good first-sackers to back-up Pujols on the team. With each team guaranteed at least one representative, we may only see Phillies who are voted in, on the squad.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs beat the Durham Bulls, 8-5, on Monday night.
Carlos Carrasco got the win, surrending four runs in six and a third innings. (Two of those runs scored, when Gary Majewski relieved Carrasco in the seventh.) Steven Register pitched two scoreless innings for the save. Roster-fillers Jason Ellison and David Newhan each contributed three hits, to the thirteen-hit IronPigs attack. Lehigh Valley scored in six consecutive innings, the second through the seventh.
The Reading Phillies (AA) defeated the Harrisburg Senators, 5-2, on Monday morning. Yep, Monday morning.
The game started at 9:35 AM! Joe Savery is unbeatable before noon. Savery pitched six innings, and allowed just one hit. Savery is now 8-1, with a 3.47 ERA. Through my HP speakers, Savery sounded like he is almost ready for AAA. Neil Sellers, Gus Milner, and Kevin Mahar had homers for the R-Phils.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) lost to the Sarasota Reds, 7-3.
The Threshers made three errors, and went 1 for 8 with men in scoring position. Julian Sampson got blasted, permitting six runs (on eight hits, with three walks/three strikeouts), in five innings. Sampson is now 1-7, with an 8.06 ERA. Sampson is also 20 years old, with a .358 BABIP, and a 55.6 LOB%.
Things could get better for the young right-hander, though Ruben Amaro probably shouldn't hesitate to include Sampson in the Halladay trade.
Cole Hamels starts for the P-Phils on Tuesday night, opposed by the Toronto Blue Jays' Ricky Romero.
Hamels shouldn't have much trouble picking up his fifth win. Lock it up!
Jack Taschner and Antonio Bastardo remain on the roster. It wouldn't be surprising, if one of them was optioned to AAA, prior to Tuesday's game against Toronto.
The Phillies will need a starting pitcher on Friday (or Saturday) against Baltimore. (J.A. Happ would be on his regular day on Friday.) They haven't announced that Bastardo will remain in the rotation, and his one-inning start against Boston highlighted the need for more minor league seasoning.
Carlos Carrasco started Monday night for Lehigh Valley (AAA), and would be on his regular day on Saturday.
Andrew Carpenter is scheduled to start Tuesday night for Lehigh Valley, but could be scratched, and start for the Phils on Friday or Saturday.
If they decide that Carrasco or Carpenter will start this weekend, the Phils could option Bastardo prior to Tuesday's game, and recall another bullpen arm. (Preferably, a bullpen arm on the 40-Man roster, with options remaining. For example, Reading (AA) lefty Mike Zagurski.)
On Friday or Saturday, either Taschner or (Zagurski?) could be optioned, opening a spot for Carrasco or Carpenter. (The Taschner for Carrasco option gets my vote.)
Chase Utley, Raul Ibanez, and Jimmy Rollins lead at their positions in All-Star voting. Ryan Howard is in a distant second, behind Albert Pujols. Carlos Ruiz and Pedro Feliz are in fourth at their respective positions. Among outfielders, Shane Victorino is fifth, and Jayson Werth is eighth, with the top three vote-getters going to St. Louis.
Ruiz and Feliz may deserve spots, based on their performances this season. Rollins doesn't deserve a spot, based on his performance this season. Ryan Howard should go, but may lose out because there is a glut of good first-sackers to back-up Pujols on the team. With each team guaranteed at least one representative, we may only see Phillies who are voted in, on the squad.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs beat the Durham Bulls, 8-5, on Monday night.
Carlos Carrasco got the win, surrending four runs in six and a third innings. (Two of those runs scored, when Gary Majewski relieved Carrasco in the seventh.) Steven Register pitched two scoreless innings for the save. Roster-fillers Jason Ellison and David Newhan each contributed three hits, to the thirteen-hit IronPigs attack. Lehigh Valley scored in six consecutive innings, the second through the seventh.
The Reading Phillies (AA) defeated the Harrisburg Senators, 5-2, on Monday morning. Yep, Monday morning.
The game started at 9:35 AM! Joe Savery is unbeatable before noon. Savery pitched six innings, and allowed just one hit. Savery is now 8-1, with a 3.47 ERA. Through my HP speakers, Savery sounded like he is almost ready for AAA. Neil Sellers, Gus Milner, and Kevin Mahar had homers for the R-Phils.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) lost to the Sarasota Reds, 7-3.
The Threshers made three errors, and went 1 for 8 with men in scoring position. Julian Sampson got blasted, permitting six runs (on eight hits, with three walks/three strikeouts), in five innings. Sampson is now 1-7, with an 8.06 ERA. Sampson is also 20 years old, with a .358 BABIP, and a 55.6 LOB%.
Things could get better for the young right-hander, though Ruben Amaro probably shouldn't hesitate to include Sampson in the Halladay trade.
Cole Hamels starts for the P-Phils on Tuesday night, opposed by the Toronto Blue Jays' Ricky Romero.
Hamels shouldn't have much trouble picking up his fifth win. Lock it up!
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