The uniform worn by Eric Bruntlett on Sunday, during his three-hit game, is on the way to Cooperstown. Bruntlett also was wearing the uniform when he set up his game-ending, unassisted triple play, with two defensive miscues. It joins his Elmer Fudd hat from the 2008 postseason, in the rapidly growing Gnome Wing of the Hall.
Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) outfielder Michael Taylor was placed on the DL, retroactive to 8/22, with a strained right oblique. The FeHogs are out of the playoff race, so the loss of Taylor only hurts them from an attendance standpoint. But the untimely injury may keep Taylor from being promoted to the parent club, during September's roster expansion.
The IronPigs activated LHP Brian Mazone from the DL, and he made the start on Monday night. The FeHogs stashed Mazone on the DL with turf toe, until Saturday's doubleheader necessitated a spot start. Mazone hasn't been great this season, but this is preferable to starting reliever Jake Woods, in another "bullpen game."
The IronPigs fell to the pitiful Pawtucket Red Sox on Monday, 3-2, on a run in the bottom of the ninth. Mazone pitched five scoreless innings, surrendering only three singles (two walks/eight whiffs). Former Phillies' superstar Paul Byrd started for the Red Sox, allowing only one run, over seven innings.
Carlos Leon had two sacrifices for the IronPigs, batting in the eighth spot, ahead of .100-hitting Tuffy Gosewisch. There are so many problems with that preceding sentence.
Joe Bisenius continued to pitch himself off the 40-Man roster, allowing a run, on a homer and two walks (two whiffs), in one and one-third innings. Bisenius' ERA in AAA decreased to a mere 20.25.
The Reading Phillies (AA) promoted IF Freddy Galvis from the Clearwater Threshers (A). With Carlos Leon in AAA, and Brad Harman on the DL, the R-Phils needed a second middle infielder. They would have been better off adjusting the roster "Gradoville style", and activating batting instructor Kevin Jordan, a former Phillie, as a second baseman. Galvis is a superb infielder, but does not hit.
The Reading Phillies lost to the New Britain Rock Cats (again) on Monday, 6-3. I am so sick of the Stone Felines. The R-Phils outhit New Britain, 14-8, but had thirteen singles, and were only 2 for 10 w/RISP, leaving ten on base. Reading also made a pair of errors.
Starter Yohan Flande did not fare well, permitting four runs, in four innings (seven hits, four walks/three whiffs). Flande was fortunate that reliever Alex Concepcion stranded both baserunners he inherited.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) fell to the Dunedin Blue Jays, 4-2. Threshers' starter Tyler Cloyd was victimized by a two-out grand slam, in the third inning. Cloyd pitched six innings, without permitting any additional runs (six hits, two walks/three whiffs). Michael Schwimer pitched a scoreless frame. Tyson Brummett also pitched a scoreless inning, reducing his ERA in A ball to only 33.75. It was unclear at press time whether Clay Condrey and/or J.C. Romero were in attendance at the final Feeding Frenzy.
The Lakewood BlueClaws were swept in a doubleheader Monday night, by the Lake County Captains. But the BlueClaws drew over 6,047 fans, giving them over 4 million in their history. It them a mere 608 games to eclipse reach the milestone. Lakewood leads the league in attendance this season.
Showing posts with label Michael Taylor. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Michael Taylor. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Bunts and Balks (8/12)
Brett Myers made his third simulated relief appearance on Wednesday. Myers faced Clearwater Threshers (A) batters, throwing thirty-two pitches, in two innings. For a challenge, Myers should face Reading Phillies (AA) batters. DomOnic Brown, Steve Susdorf, Neil Sellers, and Kevin Mahar would be a formidable simulated group. Of course, at this early stage in Myers' rehab, it might not be prudent to challenge him too much. Myers could appear in an actual minor league game next week.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) rallied from a ninth-inning deficit, to beat the Louisville Bats on Wednesday, 10-9. Michael Taylor hit a game-tying home run, in the bottom of the ninth inning. As if that wasn't enough, it was Taylor's fifth hit of the game. It should also be mentioned that, as a result of the homer, Taylor successfully hit for the cycle!
Lehigh Valley LHP Brian Mazone was placed on the 15-Day DL. RHP Pat Overholt was reassigned from Lehigh Valley, to Reading (AA). Rodrigo Lopez and Kyle Kendrick were added to the Lehigh Valley roster. The current Lehigh Valley rotation appears to include (in no particular order): Drew Carpenter, Gustavo Chacin, Kyle Kendrick, Rodrigo Lopez, and Joe Savery.
Overholt struggled with excessive baserunner issues in AAA, permitting ten hits and thirteen walks (nine whiffs), in fourteen relief innings. Overholt's ERA of 3.21 is very deceiving; his FIP is 5.84. Overholt's AA FIP was 6.20, as his poor command has been too much for his lucky BABIPs (.228 in AAA, .247 in AA) to overcome.
The veteran journeyman Mazone is minor league filler, at this point in his career.
Lehigh Valley reassigned RHP Alex Concepcion to Reading (AA). RHP Joe Bisenius was promoted for Clearwater (A). Concepcion did an adequate job in AAA, posting a 3.86 ERA/3.41 FIP. Concepcion struck out eight batters, while walking only one, in fourteen innings at AAA, but he did allow fifteen hits.
Bisenius, a member of the Phillies' 40-Man roster, made three rehab appearances with Clearwater (A), throwing four scoreless innings. It appears that the Phillies want to see how he fares in AAA, when determining whether he remains on the 40-Man.
The Reading Phillies (AA) fell short in their ninth-inning rally attempt, falling to the Trenton Thunder, 3-2. Steve Susdorf hit his first R-Phils' homer in the ninth, but Reading couldn't complete the comeback. Susdorf, DH'ing for the night, has fifteen AA plate appearances, with a line of .286/.375/.571. He could be a satisfactory MLB hitter, but is limited by his defensive inadequacies.
DomOnic Brown went 2 for 4, with a double. In forty-three AA plate appearances, Brown has a line of .342/.419/.684.
Northpaw Vance Worley pitched well, permitting only two runs, both on a two-out home run in the first inning. Worley lasted seven innings, allowing only four hits, while walking none (four whiffs). Worley had a difficult patch in mid-July, four consecutive poor (possibly BABIP-induced?) outings, but now has three consecutive strong starts.
Scott Mathieson conceded a run in the eighth inning, which turned out to be the winning run. Mathieson started his AA stint with six scoreless innings, but has surrended a run, in each of his lost two innings.
The Reading Phillies (AA) activated catcher Tuffy Gosewisch from the DL. Tim Gradoville returned to his role as a coach. Gosewisch, Reading's starting catcher, was finally back in the lineup. It should be helpful for the young hurlers in Reading's rotation (Kyle Drabek, Yohan Flande, Mike Cisco, Mike Stutes, and Vance Worley) to throw to Gosewisch, again.
Gradoville spent a week with the R-Phils. He did not bat, appearing only twice, as a defensive replacement.
The Reading Phillies released RHP Francisco Butto, and sent RHP Tristan Crawford to Clearwater (A), to open roster spots for Overholt and Concepcion.
Crawford had been promoted from Clearwater, on July 24th, when Concepcion was promoted to AAA. Crawford had a 5.79 ERA, in nine and one-third AA innings.
The 26 year-old Butto had struggled with control, with a BB/9 of 4.2 in AAA, and 6.87 in AA.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) scored in the bottom of the ninth, to defeat the Lakeland Flying Tigers, 6-5. The Threshers, spurred by criticisms inferring that they had no good hitters left, had fifteen hits (eleven singles). Threshers' starter Jon Velazquez struck out eight, while walking only one, in five innings. Unfortunately, he was hurt by two home runs, leading to three runs.
Michael Schwimer's scoreless inning streak ended at twelve innings, as the northpaw surrendered two runs in the seventh inning.
Tristan Crawford finished for the save, striking out four (two hits, zero walks), in two scoreless innings.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) rallied from a ninth-inning deficit, to beat the Louisville Bats on Wednesday, 10-9. Michael Taylor hit a game-tying home run, in the bottom of the ninth inning. As if that wasn't enough, it was Taylor's fifth hit of the game. It should also be mentioned that, as a result of the homer, Taylor successfully hit for the cycle!
Lehigh Valley LHP Brian Mazone was placed on the 15-Day DL. RHP Pat Overholt was reassigned from Lehigh Valley, to Reading (AA). Rodrigo Lopez and Kyle Kendrick were added to the Lehigh Valley roster. The current Lehigh Valley rotation appears to include (in no particular order): Drew Carpenter, Gustavo Chacin, Kyle Kendrick, Rodrigo Lopez, and Joe Savery.
Overholt struggled with excessive baserunner issues in AAA, permitting ten hits and thirteen walks (nine whiffs), in fourteen relief innings. Overholt's ERA of 3.21 is very deceiving; his FIP is 5.84. Overholt's AA FIP was 6.20, as his poor command has been too much for his lucky BABIPs (.228 in AAA, .247 in AA) to overcome.
The veteran journeyman Mazone is minor league filler, at this point in his career.
Lehigh Valley reassigned RHP Alex Concepcion to Reading (AA). RHP Joe Bisenius was promoted for Clearwater (A). Concepcion did an adequate job in AAA, posting a 3.86 ERA/3.41 FIP. Concepcion struck out eight batters, while walking only one, in fourteen innings at AAA, but he did allow fifteen hits.
Bisenius, a member of the Phillies' 40-Man roster, made three rehab appearances with Clearwater (A), throwing four scoreless innings. It appears that the Phillies want to see how he fares in AAA, when determining whether he remains on the 40-Man.
The Reading Phillies (AA) fell short in their ninth-inning rally attempt, falling to the Trenton Thunder, 3-2. Steve Susdorf hit his first R-Phils' homer in the ninth, but Reading couldn't complete the comeback. Susdorf, DH'ing for the night, has fifteen AA plate appearances, with a line of .286/.375/.571. He could be a satisfactory MLB hitter, but is limited by his defensive inadequacies.
DomOnic Brown went 2 for 4, with a double. In forty-three AA plate appearances, Brown has a line of .342/.419/.684.
Northpaw Vance Worley pitched well, permitting only two runs, both on a two-out home run in the first inning. Worley lasted seven innings, allowing only four hits, while walking none (four whiffs). Worley had a difficult patch in mid-July, four consecutive poor (possibly BABIP-induced?) outings, but now has three consecutive strong starts.
Scott Mathieson conceded a run in the eighth inning, which turned out to be the winning run. Mathieson started his AA stint with six scoreless innings, but has surrended a run, in each of his lost two innings.
The Reading Phillies (AA) activated catcher Tuffy Gosewisch from the DL. Tim Gradoville returned to his role as a coach. Gosewisch, Reading's starting catcher, was finally back in the lineup. It should be helpful for the young hurlers in Reading's rotation (Kyle Drabek, Yohan Flande, Mike Cisco, Mike Stutes, and Vance Worley) to throw to Gosewisch, again.
Gradoville spent a week with the R-Phils. He did not bat, appearing only twice, as a defensive replacement.
The Reading Phillies released RHP Francisco Butto, and sent RHP Tristan Crawford to Clearwater (A), to open roster spots for Overholt and Concepcion.
Crawford had been promoted from Clearwater, on July 24th, when Concepcion was promoted to AAA. Crawford had a 5.79 ERA, in nine and one-third AA innings.
The 26 year-old Butto had struggled with control, with a BB/9 of 4.2 in AAA, and 6.87 in AA.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) scored in the bottom of the ninth, to defeat the Lakeland Flying Tigers, 6-5. The Threshers, spurred by criticisms inferring that they had no good hitters left, had fifteen hits (eleven singles). Threshers' starter Jon Velazquez struck out eight, while walking only one, in five innings. Unfortunately, he was hurt by two home runs, leading to three runs.
Michael Schwimer's scoreless inning streak ended at twelve innings, as the northpaw surrendered two runs in the seventh inning.
Tristan Crawford finished for the save, striking out four (two hits, zero walks), in two scoreless innings.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Bunts and Balks (8/11)
The Phillies removed Jamie Moyer from the fifth starter's role, and moved him to the bullpen. Pedro Martinez will join the rotation, starting Wednesday night, against the Cubs.
With future HOFer Pedro Martinez having, satisfactorily, completed his minor league rehab, the Phillies removed their rotation's weakest starter. Moyer pitched 123.1 innings, posting a 5.47 ERA/5.40 FIP. Moyer will, likely, be used as a long reliever/in low leverage situations. With two doubleheaders scheduled in September, Moyer could be considered (along with Drew Carpenter, Kyle Kendrick, and Rodrigo Lopez) for spot starting assignments, later in the season.
Kyle Kendrick was optioned to Lehigh Valley (AAA), t,o open a spot for Martinez on the active roster. Kendrick will, likely, return to the IronPigs rotation. Joe Savery, recently promoted from AA, would seem the most likely option to be demoted to Reading (AA). But, it is possible that Lehigh Valley could, instead, jettison Brian Mazone or Gustavo Chacin, both minor league journeyman who may be unlikely to return to the organization in 2010.
Chad Durbin was activated from the DL. Rodrigo Lopez was optioned to Lehigh Valley. Durbin has a month to make a case for a postseason roster spot. However, if the rest of the bullpen options are healthy for the playoffs, it may not matter how well Durbin pitches in August/September.
Lopez was able to be optioned to AAA, despite having more than five years of MLB experience, because it was written into his contract when he agreed to terms with the Phillies.
J.C. Romero had another rehab setback, and is scheduled for an MRI. It is starting to look like a lost season for Romero.
Brett Myers pitched in his second simulated game, and may make an appearance in an un-simulated game shortly. Expect him to be ready for a relief role with the Phillies, in September.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) lost to the Louisville Bats on Tuesday, 2-1. Michael Taylor had two outfield assists, at second base, and at home plate. Alex Concepcion pitched two scoreless innings of relief.
The Reading Phillies (AA) came from behind to defeat the Trenton Thunder, 6-5.
The R-Phils trailed 3-1, after six innings, but pulled ahead 6-3, in the top of the ninth. Despite some shaky fielding (the R-Phils made four errors), leading to two unearned runs in the bottom of the ninth, the R-Phils held on for the win. Reading starter Mike Stutes pitched well, allowing three runs (only one earned), in six innings (seven hits, two walks/six strikeouts). B.J. Rosenberg got the final out, for his first AA save. Behind the plate for the final out was Tim Gradoville. A week ago, who would have predicted a low-A reliever, and a low-A coach, would be the battery in a AA game?
The Philadelphia Inquirer continues to spell DomOnic Brown's name incorrectly. Very disappointing.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) were bombed by the Lakeland Flying Tigers on Tuesday, 9-3. It was a very successing mission for the Flying Tigers. The Threshers took a 3-0 lead, in the top of the first inning, but never scored again. Threshers starter Darren Byrd pitched four and two-thirds innings, allowing five runs (only two earned), on eleven hits (zero walks/seven whiffs). The box score seems to indicate that Byrd had some BABIP issues...
With future HOFer Pedro Martinez having, satisfactorily, completed his minor league rehab, the Phillies removed their rotation's weakest starter. Moyer pitched 123.1 innings, posting a 5.47 ERA/5.40 FIP. Moyer will, likely, be used as a long reliever/in low leverage situations. With two doubleheaders scheduled in September, Moyer could be considered (along with Drew Carpenter, Kyle Kendrick, and Rodrigo Lopez) for spot starting assignments, later in the season.
Kyle Kendrick was optioned to Lehigh Valley (AAA), t,o open a spot for Martinez on the active roster. Kendrick will, likely, return to the IronPigs rotation. Joe Savery, recently promoted from AA, would seem the most likely option to be demoted to Reading (AA). But, it is possible that Lehigh Valley could, instead, jettison Brian Mazone or Gustavo Chacin, both minor league journeyman who may be unlikely to return to the organization in 2010.
Chad Durbin was activated from the DL. Rodrigo Lopez was optioned to Lehigh Valley. Durbin has a month to make a case for a postseason roster spot. However, if the rest of the bullpen options are healthy for the playoffs, it may not matter how well Durbin pitches in August/September.
Lopez was able to be optioned to AAA, despite having more than five years of MLB experience, because it was written into his contract when he agreed to terms with the Phillies.
J.C. Romero had another rehab setback, and is scheduled for an MRI. It is starting to look like a lost season for Romero.
Brett Myers pitched in his second simulated game, and may make an appearance in an un-simulated game shortly. Expect him to be ready for a relief role with the Phillies, in September.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) lost to the Louisville Bats on Tuesday, 2-1. Michael Taylor had two outfield assists, at second base, and at home plate. Alex Concepcion pitched two scoreless innings of relief.
The Reading Phillies (AA) came from behind to defeat the Trenton Thunder, 6-5.
The R-Phils trailed 3-1, after six innings, but pulled ahead 6-3, in the top of the ninth. Despite some shaky fielding (the R-Phils made four errors), leading to two unearned runs in the bottom of the ninth, the R-Phils held on for the win. Reading starter Mike Stutes pitched well, allowing three runs (only one earned), in six innings (seven hits, two walks/six strikeouts). B.J. Rosenberg got the final out, for his first AA save. Behind the plate for the final out was Tim Gradoville. A week ago, who would have predicted a low-A reliever, and a low-A coach, would be the battery in a AA game?
The Philadelphia Inquirer continues to spell DomOnic Brown's name incorrectly. Very disappointing.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) were bombed by the Lakeland Flying Tigers on Tuesday, 9-3. It was a very successing mission for the Flying Tigers. The Threshers took a 3-0 lead, in the top of the first inning, but never scored again. Threshers starter Darren Byrd pitched four and two-thirds innings, allowing five runs (only two earned), on eleven hits (zero walks/seven whiffs). The box score seems to indicate that Byrd had some BABIP issues...
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.)
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Bunts and Balks (8/1)
All-Star CF Shane Victorino is still out of the Phillies' lineup, with knee pain. Hopefully, Victorino will back in the starting lineup for the Colorado series, starting Tuesday at CBP. Fortunately, the presence of Disco Ben Francisco should prevent the Phillies from using Eric Bruntlett in the outfield, in Victorino's absence.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) made good use of their eleven hits on Saturday, demolishing the Rochester Red Wings, 7-1. Brian Mazone allowed one run, over six innings, for the win. Jake Woods finished with three scoreless innings, picking up a save. Of the eleven players used by the FeHogs, there was one top prospect (Michael Taylor) and one middling prospect (John Mayberry). The rest of the squad was comprised of minor league filler. Fortunately, the parent club is in good shape for the next two seasons, and there are some lower-level prospects on the move.
OF Dominic Brown was promoted from Clearwater (A) to Reading (AA).
Brown is one of the top position prospects in the system, and Phillies' GM Ruben Amaro refused to surrender him in a trade for Toronto ace Roy Halladay. Brown played 66 games with Clearwater, posting a .408 wOBA, and a .917 OPS.
RHP Michael Galen Cisco was promoted from Clearwater (A) to Reading (AA). It appears that Cisco will take the rotation spot vacated by Joe Savery, who was promoted to Lehigh Valley. Cisco's 7-3 record, 3.31 ERA, and 3.4 K/BB for Clearwater look good, but he was aided a bit by a BABIP of .278. Cisco's FIP of 4.06 is not all that impressive, but the twenty-two year old was the best choice from the Clearwater rotation for promotion. Cisco is younger than former Clearwater rotation-mates Jon Velazquez and Darren Byrd, and has much better command.
The Reading Phillies overcome a 4-1 deficit, defeating the Erie SeaWolves, 7-6.
Top prospect RHP Kyle Drabek only lasted six innings, permitting six hits, five runs, and three walks (five strikeouts). Four of the runs Drabek allowed were on the three home runs he surrendered, two to left-handed hitting Brennan Bosch. (The other was to right-handed hitting Casper Wells, a top Detroit prospect.) Drabek has extreme splits in AA: RHB are hitting .149, LHB are hitting .329. The game was only the second road start Drabek has made in AA, the first against a team with a record over .500. (Drabek has faced Altoona, with a .398 winning percentage, and Erie, with a .538 winning percentage, in away games.)
Dominic Brown was 0 for 3, in his R-Phils debut. Quintin Berry, Neil Sellers, and Brian Stavisky each had multiple-hit games for Reading.
Michael Cisco will make his first Reading start, on Sunday.
RHP Joe Bisenius and OF Gus Milner were sent from Reading to Clearwater.
Bisenius, who is a member of the Phillies' 40-Man roster, and made two relief appearances for the parent club in 2007, has been on the DL since June. He has pitched only twelve innings this season, posting an 11.25 ERA/2.00 WHIP for the R-Phils.
The twenty-five year old Milner posted a .269 wOBA, in 286 plate appearances with Reading.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) lost to the Fort Myers Miracle on Saturday, 5-4.
The Threshers lineup suffered from the absence of Dominic Brown. Steve Susdorf was 1 for 4, dropping his average to .390.
Starter Tyler Cloyd was charged with three runs in six and two-thirds innings, on seven hits, one walk (three strikeouts), and a home run. Cloyd left with the bases loaded in the seventh, but reliever Carlos Monasterios stranded the three inherited runners.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) made good use of their eleven hits on Saturday, demolishing the Rochester Red Wings, 7-1. Brian Mazone allowed one run, over six innings, for the win. Jake Woods finished with three scoreless innings, picking up a save. Of the eleven players used by the FeHogs, there was one top prospect (Michael Taylor) and one middling prospect (John Mayberry). The rest of the squad was comprised of minor league filler. Fortunately, the parent club is in good shape for the next two seasons, and there are some lower-level prospects on the move.
OF Dominic Brown was promoted from Clearwater (A) to Reading (AA).
Brown is one of the top position prospects in the system, and Phillies' GM Ruben Amaro refused to surrender him in a trade for Toronto ace Roy Halladay. Brown played 66 games with Clearwater, posting a .408 wOBA, and a .917 OPS.
RHP Michael Galen Cisco was promoted from Clearwater (A) to Reading (AA). It appears that Cisco will take the rotation spot vacated by Joe Savery, who was promoted to Lehigh Valley. Cisco's 7-3 record, 3.31 ERA, and 3.4 K/BB for Clearwater look good, but he was aided a bit by a BABIP of .278. Cisco's FIP of 4.06 is not all that impressive, but the twenty-two year old was the best choice from the Clearwater rotation for promotion. Cisco is younger than former Clearwater rotation-mates Jon Velazquez and Darren Byrd, and has much better command.
The Reading Phillies overcome a 4-1 deficit, defeating the Erie SeaWolves, 7-6.
Top prospect RHP Kyle Drabek only lasted six innings, permitting six hits, five runs, and three walks (five strikeouts). Four of the runs Drabek allowed were on the three home runs he surrendered, two to left-handed hitting Brennan Bosch. (The other was to right-handed hitting Casper Wells, a top Detroit prospect.) Drabek has extreme splits in AA: RHB are hitting .149, LHB are hitting .329. The game was only the second road start Drabek has made in AA, the first against a team with a record over .500. (Drabek has faced Altoona, with a .398 winning percentage, and Erie, with a .538 winning percentage, in away games.)
Dominic Brown was 0 for 3, in his R-Phils debut. Quintin Berry, Neil Sellers, and Brian Stavisky each had multiple-hit games for Reading.
Michael Cisco will make his first Reading start, on Sunday.
RHP Joe Bisenius and OF Gus Milner were sent from Reading to Clearwater.
Bisenius, who is a member of the Phillies' 40-Man roster, and made two relief appearances for the parent club in 2007, has been on the DL since June. He has pitched only twelve innings this season, posting an 11.25 ERA/2.00 WHIP for the R-Phils.
The twenty-five year old Milner posted a .269 wOBA, in 286 plate appearances with Reading.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) lost to the Fort Myers Miracle on Saturday, 5-4.
The Threshers lineup suffered from the absence of Dominic Brown. Steve Susdorf was 1 for 4, dropping his average to .390.
Starter Tyler Cloyd was charged with three runs in six and two-thirds innings, on seven hits, one walk (three strikeouts), and a home run. Cloyd left with the bases loaded in the seventh, but reliever Carlos Monasterios stranded the three inherited runners.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/31)
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) couldn't complete a comeback on Friday night, falling to the Columbus Clippers, 9-6. The FeHogs trailed 5-2, closed to 5-4, trailed 7-4, closed to 7-5, but the bullpen couldn't stop the Clips' offense. LV starter Pedro Martinez pitched like he is interested in competing with Chad Durbin, for a spot in the Phillies' bullpen. Martinez gave up a home run to the first batter he faced, followed with four scoreless innings, and then fell apart in the fifth. Martinez survived five innings, permitting three hits, five runs (four earned), and three walks/four whiffs. Martinez threw eighty-four pitches. The veteran northpaw has, probably, qualified for two additional starts in AAA.
Steven Register allowed two runs, on three hits, in the eighth inning. Pat Overholt surrendered two runs, on two hits and two walks, in the ninth inning.
IronPigs LF Michael Taylor was 2 for 4, with a homer, and three RBIs.
The Reading Phillies (AA) scored an incredible come-from-behind victory, defeating the Erie SeaWolves, 6-4, in ten innings. The R-Phils trailed 4-0, after five innings, but pulled to within 4-3, in the sixth inning. Quintin Berry hit a game-tying home run in the top of the ninth, and Brian Stavisky hit a tenth-inning homer.
Yohan Flande's start for the R-Phils did not go well, as he allowed four runs (three earned), in six and two-thirds innings (six hits, three walks/six whiffs). Chance Chapman relieved Flande in the sixth, stranding the bases loaded. Chapman pitched two and one-third scoreless innings (one walk/three whiffs), for his sixth victory, in seven decisions. Tyson Brummett pitched a scoreless bottom of the tenth, picking up the save, in his return to AA.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) fell to the Fort Myers Miracle, 6-1.
Threshers' starter Jon Velazquez struggled, surrendering three runs, on five hits and four walks (three strikeouts), in five and two-thirds innings. He left two runners on base in the sixth, but they were stranded by reliever Santo Hernandez. Unfortunately, Hernandez and Christopher Kissock would combine to permit three more runs.
The Threshers were held to six hits, going 1 for 11 w/RISP, and leaving nine on base. Steve Susdorf went 1 for 4; his batting average is down to .394.
Steven Register allowed two runs, on three hits, in the eighth inning. Pat Overholt surrendered two runs, on two hits and two walks, in the ninth inning.
IronPigs LF Michael Taylor was 2 for 4, with a homer, and three RBIs.
The Reading Phillies (AA) scored an incredible come-from-behind victory, defeating the Erie SeaWolves, 6-4, in ten innings. The R-Phils trailed 4-0, after five innings, but pulled to within 4-3, in the sixth inning. Quintin Berry hit a game-tying home run in the top of the ninth, and Brian Stavisky hit a tenth-inning homer.
Yohan Flande's start for the R-Phils did not go well, as he allowed four runs (three earned), in six and two-thirds innings (six hits, three walks/six whiffs). Chance Chapman relieved Flande in the sixth, stranding the bases loaded. Chapman pitched two and one-third scoreless innings (one walk/three whiffs), for his sixth victory, in seven decisions. Tyson Brummett pitched a scoreless bottom of the tenth, picking up the save, in his return to AA.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) fell to the Fort Myers Miracle, 6-1.
Threshers' starter Jon Velazquez struggled, surrendering three runs, on five hits and four walks (three strikeouts), in five and two-thirds innings. He left two runners on base in the sixth, but they were stranded by reliever Santo Hernandez. Unfortunately, Hernandez and Christopher Kissock would combine to permit three more runs.
The Threshers were held to six hits, going 1 for 11 w/RISP, and leaving nine on base. Steve Susdorf went 1 for 4; his batting average is down to .394.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Breaking News: Carrasco, Donald, and Marson Out of Lehigh Valley Lineup For Morning Game
Potential trade pieces Carlos Carrasco, Jason Donald, and Lou Marson are all on the bench, as the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) play an 11:05am game against the Columbus Clippers.
Infielder Jason Donald, who returned from the DL on Tuesday night, was not expected to start. Catcher Lou Marson was also not expected to start, in a morning game after a night game. (Outfield prospect Michael Taylor, who's name has been oft-mentioned in trade proposals, is in the starting lineup.)
Carlos Carrasco was scheduled as the starting pitcher, but was replaced by journeyman bullpenner Jake Woods. Carrasco has been mentioned in trade talk with Cleveland, who are considering trading southpaw Cliff Lee. Carrasco's 6-9 record, and 5.18 ERA do not look very impressive, but the northpaw is only twenty-two, has "electric" stuff, and has suffered from BABIP (.330) and LOB% (62.8) issues. His FIP of 4.01 is impressive, when you consider his age/experience level.
Carrasco's removal could:
-mean that the Phillies are close to dealing Carrasco to Cleveland
-that the Blue Jays have softened their alleged trade demands, and are considering Carrasco as part of the package for Roy Halladay
-be a bluff by the Phillies, who want the Blue Jays to believe that the Phillies are close to dealing for Lee
Things continue to get interesting...
Infielder Jason Donald, who returned from the DL on Tuesday night, was not expected to start. Catcher Lou Marson was also not expected to start, in a morning game after a night game. (Outfield prospect Michael Taylor, who's name has been oft-mentioned in trade proposals, is in the starting lineup.)
Carlos Carrasco was scheduled as the starting pitcher, but was replaced by journeyman bullpenner Jake Woods. Carrasco has been mentioned in trade talk with Cleveland, who are considering trading southpaw Cliff Lee. Carrasco's 6-9 record, and 5.18 ERA do not look very impressive, but the northpaw is only twenty-two, has "electric" stuff, and has suffered from BABIP (.330) and LOB% (62.8) issues. His FIP of 4.01 is impressive, when you consider his age/experience level.
Carrasco's removal could:
-mean that the Phillies are close to dealing Carrasco to Cleveland
-that the Blue Jays have softened their alleged trade demands, and are considering Carrasco as part of the package for Roy Halladay
-be a bluff by the Phillies, who want the Blue Jays to believe that the Phillies are close to dealing for Lee
Things continue to get interesting...
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Halladay to Phils: Just a Matter of Time...
For the better part of the twenty-first century, I've fantasized of a Phillies rotation fronted by Roy Halladay. Now, with only days remaining before the trade deadline, Halladay in a Phillies uniform is about to become a reality. No questions asked. It's only a matter of determining which Phillies' prospects will comprise the bounty headed to Toronto. Well, that, and picking a uniform number for the new Phillies' ace. (I'm thinking #23. I'm sure Gabor won't mind giving it up.)
The next few days are a time to sit back, and observe the proceedings with detached amusement, with the final result all but assured. The Blue Jays need to cut payroll, immediately. The Blue Jays need to replace Halladay with cost-controlled prospects, which the Phillies have in abundance. Halladay will only approve a trade to a few teams, at most. Perhaps, he will only approve a trade to the Phillies, a strong playoff contender with a Spring Training home conveniently located in Clearwater, Florida. The Blue Jays do not want to trade Halladay within their division, where they'll have to face him five times a season (at least), and where he can help keep them out of the playoffs. These truths are evident. These truths are the reason Roy Halladay will be a Phillie, when the dust generated by the trading deadline clears. All of the negotiations through the media, the arbitrary pre-trade deadline deadlines, the ineffectual efforts to gain leverage, the repeated posturing, the collecting of prospect packages from teams not actually in the running, the low probabilities periodically assigned to the possibility of a Halladay trade, are all almost irrelevant. Halladay will be a Phillie.
As for the prospects the Phillies will eventually surrender to Toronto, in exchange for two postseason runs headed by baseball's best pitcher, who knows what will become of them? J.A. Happ, the Phillies' best starter this season, could easily regress into a back-of-the-rotation arm. Top prospect Kyle Drabek is coming off Tommy John surgery. His usage this season seems to be with confidence (and trade value) maximation in mind. He started out in A ball, where he was well ahead of the competition. A promotion to AA followed, where he has only started on the road once, against the victory-challenged Altoona Curve, and their sub-.400 winning percentage. Drabek may not even be a Happ. Outfield prospects Michael Taylor and Dominic Brown could be All-Stars, or they could be Marlon Byrds or Greg Golsons. Either way, the Phillies could have two more WFCs, before either reaches the Major Leagues. Jason Donald? A Bruntlett, without the Economics degree. Lou Marson? A singles-hitting, backup catcher.
So, don't get overly concerned about the Halladay Deal. The Phillies are going to surrender as few prospects as possible, in exchange for one of MLB's few "givens." Relax, enjoy the ride, and make some room on your bobblehead shelf for a Phillies bobble with the name "Halladay" on the back, and for two more World Championship trophy paperweights.
The next few days are a time to sit back, and observe the proceedings with detached amusement, with the final result all but assured. The Blue Jays need to cut payroll, immediately. The Blue Jays need to replace Halladay with cost-controlled prospects, which the Phillies have in abundance. Halladay will only approve a trade to a few teams, at most. Perhaps, he will only approve a trade to the Phillies, a strong playoff contender with a Spring Training home conveniently located in Clearwater, Florida. The Blue Jays do not want to trade Halladay within their division, where they'll have to face him five times a season (at least), and where he can help keep them out of the playoffs. These truths are evident. These truths are the reason Roy Halladay will be a Phillie, when the dust generated by the trading deadline clears. All of the negotiations through the media, the arbitrary pre-trade deadline deadlines, the ineffectual efforts to gain leverage, the repeated posturing, the collecting of prospect packages from teams not actually in the running, the low probabilities periodically assigned to the possibility of a Halladay trade, are all almost irrelevant. Halladay will be a Phillie.
As for the prospects the Phillies will eventually surrender to Toronto, in exchange for two postseason runs headed by baseball's best pitcher, who knows what will become of them? J.A. Happ, the Phillies' best starter this season, could easily regress into a back-of-the-rotation arm. Top prospect Kyle Drabek is coming off Tommy John surgery. His usage this season seems to be with confidence (and trade value) maximation in mind. He started out in A ball, where he was well ahead of the competition. A promotion to AA followed, where he has only started on the road once, against the victory-challenged Altoona Curve, and their sub-.400 winning percentage. Drabek may not even be a Happ. Outfield prospects Michael Taylor and Dominic Brown could be All-Stars, or they could be Marlon Byrds or Greg Golsons. Either way, the Phillies could have two more WFCs, before either reaches the Major Leagues. Jason Donald? A Bruntlett, without the Economics degree. Lou Marson? A singles-hitting, backup catcher.
So, don't get overly concerned about the Halladay Deal. The Phillies are going to surrender as few prospects as possible, in exchange for one of MLB's few "givens." Relax, enjoy the ride, and make some room on your bobblehead shelf for a Phillies bobble with the name "Halladay" on the back, and for two more World Championship trophy paperweights.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/24)
According to Andy Martino of the Philadelphia Inquirer, "baseball sources" are indicating that the Blue Jays want J.A. Happ, Kyle Drabek, and Dominic Brown, in exchange for Roy Halladay.
This contradicts with the "hockey sources", who indicated that the Blue Jays wanted Claude Giroux, Mike Richards, and Marc-Andre Bourdon.
Happ is expendable, but Drabek AND Brown? That's a pretty hefty price. But the Phils would be getting a year, and a few months, of one of the best pitchers in MLB. If the Phils would control Halladay for a few seasons, giving up Drabek and Brown would be a lot easier.
Hopefully, the Jays' price will come down a bit.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) lost to the Gwinnett Braves on Friday, 7-5. The FeHogs fell behind 3-0, but pulled to within 3-2, before start Carlos Carrasco surrendered a three-run homer with two outs in the sixth. Carrasco probably didn't help his dwindling trade value, by allowing six runs, in six innings (four hits, four walks/five strikeouts, one home run allowed). Michael Taylor went 1 for 3, with a walk and a stolen base, in the losing effort.
The Reading Phillies (AA) crushed the Bowie Baysox, 7-1. Starter Mike Stutes had another strong performance, allowing only one run, over seven and one-third innings (six hits, two walks/eight strikeouts, one home runs allowed). In July, Stutes has a 1.80 ERA, in five starts (thirty innings). In his last ten starts, Stutes has a 2.81 ERA, in fifty-seven and two-thirds innings. (Stutes hasn't allowed more than three earned runs in any of those ten starts.) Perhaps Stutes should be as highly regarded as rotation-mates Joe Savery and Vance Worley?
Neil Sellers was a single short of a cycle, as his 3 for 5 night raised his average to .325. Kevin Mahar increased his average to .323, with a 3 for 5 effort of his own.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) shut out the Charlotte Stone Crabs, 2-0.
Darren Byrd (five innings, four hits, one walk/five whiffs), Carlos Monasterios (two innings, one hit), Scott Mathieson (one inning, one hit, one walk/three strikeouts), and Michael Schwimer (one inning, one strikeout) combined for the shutout. Steve Susdorf was 0 for 3, dropping his average to .394. Dominic Brown was 1 for 3, and his average fell to .300. Brown reached base twice, and was picked off once, and caught stealing second the other time.
This contradicts with the "hockey sources", who indicated that the Blue Jays wanted Claude Giroux, Mike Richards, and Marc-Andre Bourdon.
Happ is expendable, but Drabek AND Brown? That's a pretty hefty price. But the Phils would be getting a year, and a few months, of one of the best pitchers in MLB. If the Phils would control Halladay for a few seasons, giving up Drabek and Brown would be a lot easier.
Hopefully, the Jays' price will come down a bit.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) lost to the Gwinnett Braves on Friday, 7-5. The FeHogs fell behind 3-0, but pulled to within 3-2, before start Carlos Carrasco surrendered a three-run homer with two outs in the sixth. Carrasco probably didn't help his dwindling trade value, by allowing six runs, in six innings (four hits, four walks/five strikeouts, one home run allowed). Michael Taylor went 1 for 3, with a walk and a stolen base, in the losing effort.
The Reading Phillies (AA) crushed the Bowie Baysox, 7-1. Starter Mike Stutes had another strong performance, allowing only one run, over seven and one-third innings (six hits, two walks/eight strikeouts, one home runs allowed). In July, Stutes has a 1.80 ERA, in five starts (thirty innings). In his last ten starts, Stutes has a 2.81 ERA, in fifty-seven and two-thirds innings. (Stutes hasn't allowed more than three earned runs in any of those ten starts.) Perhaps Stutes should be as highly regarded as rotation-mates Joe Savery and Vance Worley?
Neil Sellers was a single short of a cycle, as his 3 for 5 night raised his average to .325. Kevin Mahar increased his average to .323, with a 3 for 5 effort of his own.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) shut out the Charlotte Stone Crabs, 2-0.
Darren Byrd (five innings, four hits, one walk/five whiffs), Carlos Monasterios (two innings, one hit), Scott Mathieson (one inning, one hit, one walk/three strikeouts), and Michael Schwimer (one inning, one strikeout) combined for the shutout. Steve Susdorf was 0 for 3, dropping his average to .394. Dominic Brown was 1 for 3, and his average fell to .300. Brown reached base twice, and was picked off once, and caught stealing second the other time.
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
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/16)
Pedro Martinez will begin his minor league rehab on Monday, when he reports to the Clearwater Threshers (A). There isn't a set plan for his rehab journey, but he should be with the Phillies by August, barring setbacks.
Rodrigo Lopez is expected to make his next start, on Monday. Lopez is a few starts away from being replaced by Martinez. If Lopez pitches well, he could stay in the rotation (at Jamie Moyer's expense?), or be moved to the Phils' bullpen (much more likely).
Clay Condrey is ready to return to the Phillies. Condrey will, probably, be activated by the end of the week. The Phillies could option John Mayberry back to AAA, to free up a spot for Condrey, and return to an eight-man bullpen. Or they could designate reliever Tyler Walker for assignment. Given the Phils' wish to rest Raul Ibanez more frequently, and their need for as right-handed bench bat, Walker's DFAing seems more likely. Walker has a 1.64 ERA with the Phils, but his 4.79 FIP is more indicative of his performance.
On 80's Night in Lehigh Valley, the IronPigs (AAA) defeated the Rochester Red Wings, 5-4. Kyle Kendrick pitched eight strong innings, allowing two runs on five hits (zero walks/four whiffs). Kendrick remained undefeated, when wearing a tuxedo jersey, and improved his overall record to 6-5 (3.42 ERA). LF Michael Taylor, in his AAA debut, batted third, and went 0 for 3 (walk, run scored).
The Reading Phillies (AA) lost to the New Britain Rock Cats, 5-2. The Rock Cats, not to be confused with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, had 14 hits. The R-Phils were fortunate that the Felines of Stone had 15 LOB. R-Phils' starter Yohan Flande continued to struggle at the AA level, losing for the second time, in two decisions. Flande surrendered five runs, in five innings (nine hits, zero walks/three strikeouts), and raised his ERA to 7.58. DH Jeremy Slayden went 2 for 4, with a solo homer, improving his average to .368.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) were defeated by the Brevard County Manatees, 4-3.
Without Dominic Brown, the Threshers don't match up well with the Sea Cows. Steve Susdorf went 1 for 3, dropping his average to .410. Threshers' starter Tyler Cloyd, who took Yohan Flande's spot in the Clearwater rotation, fell to 0-3, with a 5.48 ERA. Cloyd permitted three earned runs (one unearned), in six and two-thirds innings (seven hits, three walks/two whiffs).
Rodrigo Lopez is expected to make his next start, on Monday. Lopez is a few starts away from being replaced by Martinez. If Lopez pitches well, he could stay in the rotation (at Jamie Moyer's expense?), or be moved to the Phils' bullpen (much more likely).
Clay Condrey is ready to return to the Phillies. Condrey will, probably, be activated by the end of the week. The Phillies could option John Mayberry back to AAA, to free up a spot for Condrey, and return to an eight-man bullpen. Or they could designate reliever Tyler Walker for assignment. Given the Phils' wish to rest Raul Ibanez more frequently, and their need for as right-handed bench bat, Walker's DFAing seems more likely. Walker has a 1.64 ERA with the Phils, but his 4.79 FIP is more indicative of his performance.
On 80's Night in Lehigh Valley, the IronPigs (AAA) defeated the Rochester Red Wings, 5-4. Kyle Kendrick pitched eight strong innings, allowing two runs on five hits (zero walks/four whiffs). Kendrick remained undefeated, when wearing a tuxedo jersey, and improved his overall record to 6-5 (3.42 ERA). LF Michael Taylor, in his AAA debut, batted third, and went 0 for 3 (walk, run scored).
The Reading Phillies (AA) lost to the New Britain Rock Cats, 5-2. The Rock Cats, not to be confused with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, had 14 hits. The R-Phils were fortunate that the Felines of Stone had 15 LOB. R-Phils' starter Yohan Flande continued to struggle at the AA level, losing for the second time, in two decisions. Flande surrendered five runs, in five innings (nine hits, zero walks/three strikeouts), and raised his ERA to 7.58. DH Jeremy Slayden went 2 for 4, with a solo homer, improving his average to .368.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) were defeated by the Brevard County Manatees, 4-3.
Without Dominic Brown, the Threshers don't match up well with the Sea Cows. Steve Susdorf went 1 for 3, dropping his average to .410. Threshers' starter Tyler Cloyd, who took Yohan Flande's spot in the Clearwater rotation, fell to 0-3, with a 5.48 ERA. Cloyd permitted three earned runs (one unearned), in six and two-thirds innings (seven hits, three walks/two whiffs).
Sub-Major Transactions (Taylor Promoted to AAA)
Outfielder Michael Taylor was promoted to the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA).
The Phillies' top position prospect OPS'd .982, and wOBA'd .440, with the Reading Phillies (AA). The 23 year-old could be with the parent club in September, and competing for a roster spot next spring. Or, he could be traded in the Halladay Deal. (He should be on the "Untouchables List", with Kyle Drabek and Jason Knapp. But should anyone be untouchable, when dealing for Halladay?)
The Reading Phillies (AA) placed catcher Tuffy Gosewisch on the DL, with a left hand fracture. C/OF/1B Tim Kennelly was recalled from Clearwater (A).
Gosewisch is expected to miss 4-6 weeks. The 22 year-old, Australian-born Kennelly, a Florida State League All-Star, will split catching duties with Kevin Nelson.
Pitcher Scott Mathieson was promoted to Clearwater, from the GCL Phillies. Mathieson continues the journey back to the majors, where he threw 37 innings for the 2006 Phillies. Mathieson was a top Phillies' prospect, before arm woes (TJ surgery in 2007) set him back.
Threshers' starter Julian Sampson has been placed on the 7-Day Disabled List.
Sampson pitched well in Lakewood (low-A) last season (3.99 FIP), but has struggled with Clearwater (5.46 FIP).
Top prospects Dominic Brown and Freddy Galvis are rehabbing for the GCL Phillies (Rookie), and should return to the Threshers this week. Finally, some support in the lineup for Steve Susdorf!
Top prospect Jason Knapp of the Lakewood Phillies was placed on the 7-Day DL.
Knapp is expected to miss a couple of weeks with "arm fatigue." The 18 year-old northpaw, is one of the organization's untouchables (hopefully).
The Phillies' top position prospect OPS'd .982, and wOBA'd .440, with the Reading Phillies (AA). The 23 year-old could be with the parent club in September, and competing for a roster spot next spring. Or, he could be traded in the Halladay Deal. (He should be on the "Untouchables List", with Kyle Drabek and Jason Knapp. But should anyone be untouchable, when dealing for Halladay?)
The Reading Phillies (AA) placed catcher Tuffy Gosewisch on the DL, with a left hand fracture. C/OF/1B Tim Kennelly was recalled from Clearwater (A).
Gosewisch is expected to miss 4-6 weeks. The 22 year-old, Australian-born Kennelly, a Florida State League All-Star, will split catching duties with Kevin Nelson.
Pitcher Scott Mathieson was promoted to Clearwater, from the GCL Phillies. Mathieson continues the journey back to the majors, where he threw 37 innings for the 2006 Phillies. Mathieson was a top Phillies' prospect, before arm woes (TJ surgery in 2007) set him back.
Threshers' starter Julian Sampson has been placed on the 7-Day Disabled List.
Sampson pitched well in Lakewood (low-A) last season (3.99 FIP), but has struggled with Clearwater (5.46 FIP).
Top prospects Dominic Brown and Freddy Galvis are rehabbing for the GCL Phillies (Rookie), and should return to the Threshers this week. Finally, some support in the lineup for Steve Susdorf!
Top prospect Jason Knapp of the Lakewood Phillies was placed on the 7-Day DL.
Knapp is expected to miss a couple of weeks with "arm fatigue." The 18 year-old northpaw, is one of the organization's untouchables (hopefully).
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?
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/10)
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) suffered a massive bullpen implosion on Friday, in a 5-4 home loss to the Scranton-Wilkes Barre Yankees. When you read the words "bullpen implosion", the names "Jack" and "Taschner" immediately popped into your membrane, didn't they? Taschner relieved starter Kyle Kendrick in the seventh inning, with two runners on, and the FeHogs ahead by a run. Unsurprisingly, Taschner allowed an inherited runner to score. Gary Majewski relieved Taschner, and allowed the other inherited runner to score. Kendrick's final line showed three runs permitted, in six and a third innings, but his ERA deserved much better. (Taschner's ERA for LV, of course, is still 0.00.)
The IronPigs came back to tie the game at three, heading into the bottom of the eighth, but Majewski retired zero of the four batters he faced in that inning, and the Yankees took a 5-3 lead. (Note: S-WB batted in the bottom of each inning, as the game was scheduled as a home game for the Yankees, but was moved to Lehigh Valley, due to field issues in S-WB.)
Lou Marson had three singles for LV, raising his batting average to .303.
The Reading Phillies (AA) scored a run in the sixth, four in the seventh, and five in the eighth, in a 10-2 win over the Harrisburg Senators. The game was tied at one, after six innings. Yohan Flande only lasted two innings, permitting a run, on three hits. (Don't worry, the abridged start was planned, as Flande will be appearing in Sunday's Futures Game. The trade value is still strong in this one.)
Alex Concepcion followed Flande with four scoreless innings, evening his record at 2-2. Michael Taylor went 3 for 5 (.340), Kevin Mahar went 2 for 2 (3 RBI, .313), and Neil Sellers went 2 for 4 (.317), in the R-Phils' fifteen-hit effort.
Reliever Pat Overholt was returned from Lehigh Valley, after spending four exciting days in AAA. Reliever Francisco Butto was also returned from the FeHogs, after little more than a month at the next level.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) had their game against the Brevard County Manatees rained out. Thank Hamels! The Threshers want no part of those Sea Cows right now. The Manatees should probably be promoted, en masse, to AA. The Threshers will take their chances against the sub-.500 Daytona Cubs, on Saturday night.
The IronPigs came back to tie the game at three, heading into the bottom of the eighth, but Majewski retired zero of the four batters he faced in that inning, and the Yankees took a 5-3 lead. (Note: S-WB batted in the bottom of each inning, as the game was scheduled as a home game for the Yankees, but was moved to Lehigh Valley, due to field issues in S-WB.)
Lou Marson had three singles for LV, raising his batting average to .303.
The Reading Phillies (AA) scored a run in the sixth, four in the seventh, and five in the eighth, in a 10-2 win over the Harrisburg Senators. The game was tied at one, after six innings. Yohan Flande only lasted two innings, permitting a run, on three hits. (Don't worry, the abridged start was planned, as Flande will be appearing in Sunday's Futures Game. The trade value is still strong in this one.)
Alex Concepcion followed Flande with four scoreless innings, evening his record at 2-2. Michael Taylor went 3 for 5 (.340), Kevin Mahar went 2 for 2 (3 RBI, .313), and Neil Sellers went 2 for 4 (.317), in the R-Phils' fifteen-hit effort.
Reliever Pat Overholt was returned from Lehigh Valley, after spending four exciting days in AAA. Reliever Francisco Butto was also returned from the FeHogs, after little more than a month at the next level.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) had their game against the Brevard County Manatees rained out. Thank Hamels! The Threshers want no part of those Sea Cows right now. The Manatees should probably be promoted, en masse, to AA. The Threshers will take their chances against the sub-.500 Daytona Cubs, on Saturday night.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/7)
Shane Victorino continues to battle SF's Pablo Sandoval in the Final Vote race. There's still plenty of time for any of the five candidates to win. Also plenty of time for each of us to vote for Victorino another 5000 times...
Raul Ibanez had his second rehab game Tuesday night, in Lehigh Valley (AAA). Ibanez batted three times, with a walk, a strikeout, and a single. He will probably have Wednesday off, play on Thursday, and may be activated by the P-Phils this weekend.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs lost for the seventh time in nine games, 6-2, to the Pawtucket Red Sox. The FeHogs' bats were shut down by Clay Buchholz, who would be the P-Phils' second starter. Lehigh Valley did set a franchise record, by walking eleven Pawtucket batters. Starter Carlos Carrasco contributed six of those free passes, in throwing only forty-seven of eighty-six pitches for strikes. Carrasco only permitted three hits, but the walks helped lead to six earned runs, in only four innings. Jack Taschner made his FeHogs debut, pitching two scoreless innings, in which he allowed four baserunners (2.00 WHIP).
In related news, the LV postgame show starts by airing radio clips of highlights from former IronPigs (including Brennan King and Jon Knotts!). Can't they update this with some 2009 highlights?
The Reading Phillies (AA) took a 5-0 lead into the fourth inning, and held on to beat the Akron Aeros, 11-7. The R-Phils' fourteen-hit attack featured three-hit games from Quintin Berry and Michael Taylor, and two-hit games from Neil Sellers, Jeremy Slayden, and Brad Harman. Vance Worley got the win, but permitted eleven hits and four runs (one walk/three strikeouts) over five and one-third innings. Worley's line could have been worse, but reliever Alex Concepcion stranded the two runners he inherited from Worley.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) game was suspended, with the Threshers trailing the Lakeland Flying Tigers in the fourth inning, 1-0. The aborted mission will be resumed on August 12th. Jonathan Velazquez had allowed only a single run (three hits, zero walks/five strikeouts) in the four innings he completed. I wonder how many current Threshers will be with the R-Phils, by the time this game is resumed?
Raul Ibanez had his second rehab game Tuesday night, in Lehigh Valley (AAA). Ibanez batted three times, with a walk, a strikeout, and a single. He will probably have Wednesday off, play on Thursday, and may be activated by the P-Phils this weekend.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs lost for the seventh time in nine games, 6-2, to the Pawtucket Red Sox. The FeHogs' bats were shut down by Clay Buchholz, who would be the P-Phils' second starter. Lehigh Valley did set a franchise record, by walking eleven Pawtucket batters. Starter Carlos Carrasco contributed six of those free passes, in throwing only forty-seven of eighty-six pitches for strikes. Carrasco only permitted three hits, but the walks helped lead to six earned runs, in only four innings. Jack Taschner made his FeHogs debut, pitching two scoreless innings, in which he allowed four baserunners (2.00 WHIP).
In related news, the LV postgame show starts by airing radio clips of highlights from former IronPigs (including Brennan King and Jon Knotts!). Can't they update this with some 2009 highlights?
The Reading Phillies (AA) took a 5-0 lead into the fourth inning, and held on to beat the Akron Aeros, 11-7. The R-Phils' fourteen-hit attack featured three-hit games from Quintin Berry and Michael Taylor, and two-hit games from Neil Sellers, Jeremy Slayden, and Brad Harman. Vance Worley got the win, but permitted eleven hits and four runs (one walk/three strikeouts) over five and one-third innings. Worley's line could have been worse, but reliever Alex Concepcion stranded the two runners he inherited from Worley.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) game was suspended, with the Threshers trailing the Lakeland Flying Tigers in the fourth inning, 1-0. The aborted mission will be resumed on August 12th. Jonathan Velazquez had allowed only a single run (three hits, zero walks/five strikeouts) in the four innings he completed. I wonder how many current Threshers will be with the R-Phils, by the time this game is resumed?
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).
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Bunts and Balks (6/28)
Charlie Manuel announced that Jimmy Rollins will be back at shortstop, and in the leadoff spot, on Tuesday. Eric Bruntlett went 1 for 4 on Sunday, and the "1" was a bunt hit that should have been a "0." Bruntlett did well to break up a potential double play on the basepaths, but a potential twin killing turned into yet another Bruntlett fielding fail. Even the Bad (0 for 19) Rollins would be an improvement over The Gnome.
Chan Ho Park returned to the mound, and threw two scoreless innings. Given the current state of the bullpen, it's a good thing Park's knee injury didn't necessitate a DL stint.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) were no-hit for the first six innings, in their Sunday night matchup with the Norfolk Tides. The FeHogs exploded for a six-run eighth, in a 6-1 win. The Swine hurlers managed to give up twelve hits, and only a single run. Rodrigo Lopez got the victory, permitting just the sole marker, in seven innings. Lehigh Valley only had four hits, but took advantage of six walks.
With the win, the IronPigs moved to the .500 mark for the first time IN THE HISTORY OF THE FRANCHISE! Not really an impressive franchise streak of sub .500 play, but winning 15 of 18 games is mighty impressive.
The Reading Phillies (AA) beat the Trenton Thunder, 8-3. Michael Taylor went 3 for 5, with a three-run homer, improving his average to .342. Tuffy Gosewisch went 3 for 4. Mike Stutes pitched seven innings, allowing only two runs (five hits, one walk/three strikeouts).
Joe Savery, rained out of his start in Friday's suspended game, will take the mound in Monday's series finale. The Thunder thought they would escape the series, with Savery being limited to one inning. They were sorely mistaken.
The Clearwater Threshers improved remained unbeaten in the second half of their season, with a fourth consecutive extra-inning victory over the Jupiter Hammerheads. Steve Susdorf went 2 for 5, dropping his average to only .485. Santo Hernandez pitch three scoreless relief innings, for the win. Right-hander Michael Galen Cisco got the start, but left the game with a knee injury, after facing only one batter.
Chan Ho Park returned to the mound, and threw two scoreless innings. Given the current state of the bullpen, it's a good thing Park's knee injury didn't necessitate a DL stint.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) were no-hit for the first six innings, in their Sunday night matchup with the Norfolk Tides. The FeHogs exploded for a six-run eighth, in a 6-1 win. The Swine hurlers managed to give up twelve hits, and only a single run. Rodrigo Lopez got the victory, permitting just the sole marker, in seven innings. Lehigh Valley only had four hits, but took advantage of six walks.
With the win, the IronPigs moved to the .500 mark for the first time IN THE HISTORY OF THE FRANCHISE! Not really an impressive franchise streak of sub .500 play, but winning 15 of 18 games is mighty impressive.
The Reading Phillies (AA) beat the Trenton Thunder, 8-3. Michael Taylor went 3 for 5, with a three-run homer, improving his average to .342. Tuffy Gosewisch went 3 for 4. Mike Stutes pitched seven innings, allowing only two runs (five hits, one walk/three strikeouts).
Joe Savery, rained out of his start in Friday's suspended game, will take the mound in Monday's series finale. The Thunder thought they would escape the series, with Savery being limited to one inning. They were sorely mistaken.
The Clearwater Threshers improved remained unbeaten in the second half of their season, with a fourth consecutive extra-inning victory over the Jupiter Hammerheads. Steve Susdorf went 2 for 5, dropping his average to only .485. Santo Hernandez pitch three scoreless relief innings, for the win. Right-hander Michael Galen Cisco got the start, but left the game with a knee injury, after facing only one batter.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Bunts and Balks (6/24)
Brad Lidge has been activated by the P-Phils, after completing his rehabilitation tour through Reading (AA) and Clearwater (A). Hopefully, Lidge will return to form as the closer, and Ryan Madson will return to form, back in the setup role.
Sergio Escalona was sent down to Lehigh Valley (AAA) to clear a spot for Lidge. The correct choice for this roster move was "Jack Taschner." (We would also have accepted "Paul Bako.") Escalona was only on the roster for a few days, having taken Clay Condrey's spot, when Everyday Clay went on the DL.
Scott Eyre is expected to return next week, hopefully Taschner or Bako will go at that point. (Preferably Bako, as that would reinstate the eight-man bullpen.)
I fear that reliever Tyler Walker will be the choice to vacate the roster for Eyre. Walker would have to pass through waivers to return to Lehigh Valley, and would probably be scooped up by the Nationals. (Or perhaps join reliever Mike Koplove in the Pirates' organization?)
Cole Hamels and J.A. Happ have been swapped in this weekend's rotation, and Hamels will start on Friday night in Toronto.
This move costs Hamels an appearance in the upcoming Mets series (July 3-5), but gains him an extra start, as well as a quick return from the All-Star break. It also swaps him out of a daytime start; Hamels has struggled during the day. Good move.
In an effort to resuscitate Jimmy Rollins and his ailing bat, Charlie Manuel will keep Rollins out of the starting lineup on Thursday and Friday.
It might have been preferable to just keep Rollins batting sixth for an extended period. (Or perhaps ninth in interleague road games?) Any move that puts Eric Bruntlett in the starting lineup on consecutive days is a bit questionable, but Manuel is looking at the long-term here. Given Bruntlett's mediocrity afield, and uselessness at the plate, maybe Pedro Feliz at short, and Greg Dobbs (or Chris Coste, if Dobbs plays 1B, for a DH-ing Ryan Howard?) at 3B, would have been preferable.
Minor League pitchers Kyle Drabek (Reading) and Yohan Flande (Clearwater)have been chosen to appear in the Futures Game.
A well-deserved honor for two of the organization's top hurlers. (It should be noted that Flande is 23, and, possibly, should be competing at a higher level. It seems that he should be promoted to Reading in the near future.)
It's a shame that the Phillies didn't have any position players worthy of selection. Michael Taylor (Reading) has a .978 OPS, with 13 HR, but that apparently isn't good enough for inclusion.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs fell behind 4-0, after two and a half innings, and lost to the Indianopolis Indians, 4-1. The FeHogs were held to only three hits, and starter Gustavo Chacin (five innings, four runs, nine hits, three walks/two strikeouts) did not have a strong outing.
The Reading Phillies lost to the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, 4-3.
Michael Taylor went 3 for 4, but starter Tyson Brummett was ineffective (five innings, four runs, eight hits, four walks/zero strikeouts.)
The Clearwater Threshers defeated the Tampa Yankees, 7-6, on Wednesday.
The Threshers lead 6-0, after four and a half innings, and held on for the win. Yohan Flande won his seventh game, in eight decisions, but his performance was rather pedestrian (five innings, two runs, four hits, two walks/three strikeouts).
Sergio Escalona was sent down to Lehigh Valley (AAA) to clear a spot for Lidge. The correct choice for this roster move was "Jack Taschner." (We would also have accepted "Paul Bako.") Escalona was only on the roster for a few days, having taken Clay Condrey's spot, when Everyday Clay went on the DL.
Scott Eyre is expected to return next week, hopefully Taschner or Bako will go at that point. (Preferably Bako, as that would reinstate the eight-man bullpen.)
I fear that reliever Tyler Walker will be the choice to vacate the roster for Eyre. Walker would have to pass through waivers to return to Lehigh Valley, and would probably be scooped up by the Nationals. (Or perhaps join reliever Mike Koplove in the Pirates' organization?)
Cole Hamels and J.A. Happ have been swapped in this weekend's rotation, and Hamels will start on Friday night in Toronto.
This move costs Hamels an appearance in the upcoming Mets series (July 3-5), but gains him an extra start, as well as a quick return from the All-Star break. It also swaps him out of a daytime start; Hamels has struggled during the day. Good move.
In an effort to resuscitate Jimmy Rollins and his ailing bat, Charlie Manuel will keep Rollins out of the starting lineup on Thursday and Friday.
It might have been preferable to just keep Rollins batting sixth for an extended period. (Or perhaps ninth in interleague road games?) Any move that puts Eric Bruntlett in the starting lineup on consecutive days is a bit questionable, but Manuel is looking at the long-term here. Given Bruntlett's mediocrity afield, and uselessness at the plate, maybe Pedro Feliz at short, and Greg Dobbs (or Chris Coste, if Dobbs plays 1B, for a DH-ing Ryan Howard?) at 3B, would have been preferable.
Minor League pitchers Kyle Drabek (Reading) and Yohan Flande (Clearwater)have been chosen to appear in the Futures Game.
A well-deserved honor for two of the organization's top hurlers. (It should be noted that Flande is 23, and, possibly, should be competing at a higher level. It seems that he should be promoted to Reading in the near future.)
It's a shame that the Phillies didn't have any position players worthy of selection. Michael Taylor (Reading) has a .978 OPS, with 13 HR, but that apparently isn't good enough for inclusion.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs fell behind 4-0, after two and a half innings, and lost to the Indianopolis Indians, 4-1. The FeHogs were held to only three hits, and starter Gustavo Chacin (five innings, four runs, nine hits, three walks/two strikeouts) did not have a strong outing.
The Reading Phillies lost to the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, 4-3.
Michael Taylor went 3 for 4, but starter Tyson Brummett was ineffective (five innings, four runs, eight hits, four walks/zero strikeouts.)
The Clearwater Threshers defeated the Tampa Yankees, 7-6, on Wednesday.
The Threshers lead 6-0, after four and a half innings, and held on for the win. Yohan Flande won his seventh game, in eight decisions, but his performance was rather pedestrian (five innings, two runs, four hits, two walks/three strikeouts).
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