Matt Moore's major league inexperience didn't matter in his first major league playoff start.
Moore threw seven innings of two-hit ball in just his second major league start to lead the Tampa Bay Rays in a 9-0 win over the Texas Rangers on Friday in the opening game of their American League Division Series.
Moore started the year with the Biscuits, jumped to Triple-A Durham in mid-July and hit the majors in mid-September. Friday marked just the fourth major league appearance for the 22-year-old. He had two walks and six strikeouts.
Kelly Shoppach homered twice, singled and scored three times for the Rays. Game 2 is 6 p.m. Saturday.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Delmon only other Biscuit on ALDS roster
Detroit outfielder Delmon Young, the 2005 Southern League MVP, is the only other Biscuit on a roster for the American League Division Series. The National League teams don't start their series until Saturday and only the Phillies, at this instant, have their playoff rosters updated at mlb.com.
Moore youngest Game 1 starter since 2000
Matt Moore's playoff start today will be unprecedented in major league history. It's the second start of his major league career. No pitcher has started a postseason game with such little major league starting experience.
Moore, at 22 years, 104 days old, is the youngest Game 1 playoff pitcher since Rick Ankiel, at 21 years, 76 days, did it for St. Louis in 2000. He's the youngest in the American League since the 1971 Oakland A's tossed out Vida Blue at 22 years, 67 days old.
Moore, at 22 years, 104 days old, is the youngest Game 1 playoff pitcher since Rick Ankiel, at 21 years, 76 days, did it for St. Louis in 2000. He's the youngest in the American League since the 1971 Oakland A's tossed out Vida Blue at 22 years, 67 days old.
Mark your calendars for Tide-Tigers
The annual Alabama-Auburn game at Riverwalk Stadium will be played March 6. That's a Tuesday.
Former Biscuits a majority on Rays' ALDS roster
Most of Tampa Bay's roster for the American League Division Series is made up of former Biscuits. There are 13 players with Montgomery on their resume among the 25 players who will suit up for the Rays against the Texas Rangers. Game 1 is today at Texas.
PITCHERS (6 former Biscuits/5 non-Biscuits)-- Wade Davis, Jeremy Hellickson, Jake McGee, Matt Moore, David Price, James Shields (Juan Cruz, Kyle Farnsworth, Brandon Gomes, J.P. Howell, Joel Peralta)
CATCHERS (2/1) -- John Jaso, Jose Lobaton (Kelly Shoppach)
INFIELDERS (3/3) -- Reid Brignac, Elliot Johnson, Evan Longoria (Casey Kotchman, Sean Rodriguez, Ben Zobrist)
OUTFIELDERS (2/3) -- Desmond Jennings, B.J. Upton (Johnny Damon, Sam Fuld, Matt Joyce)
PITCHERS (6 former Biscuits/5 non-Biscuits)-- Wade Davis, Jeremy Hellickson, Jake McGee, Matt Moore, David Price, James Shields (Juan Cruz, Kyle Farnsworth, Brandon Gomes, J.P. Howell, Joel Peralta)
CATCHERS (2/1) -- John Jaso, Jose Lobaton (Kelly Shoppach)
INFIELDERS (3/3) -- Reid Brignac, Elliot Johnson, Evan Longoria (Casey Kotchman, Sean Rodriguez, Ben Zobrist)
OUTFIELDERS (2/3) -- Desmond Jennings, B.J. Upton (Johnny Damon, Sam Fuld, Matt Joyce)
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Moore will start playoff opener for Rays
Matt Moore, after starting the season with the Biscuits, will start Tampa Bay's playoff opener Friday at Texas. It will be his second career start.
Longoria HR bat sent to Hall of Fame
Evan Longoria's bat, the one that hit Wednesday's playoff-clinching home run, is headed to Cooperstown. The Hall of Fame requested the bat and Longoria agreed to donate it.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Rays win AL wild card
Evan Longoria homered to lead off the 12th inning and the Tampa Bay Rays beat the New York Yankees 8-7 to take the AL wild card.
The Boston Red Sox lost 4-3 to the Baltimore Orioles, who scored twice with two outs in the ninth. Wednesday's finishes left the Rays one game ahead of Boston.
Tampa Bay, which faced a nine-game wild-card deficit in early September, trailed 7-0 in the eighth Wednesday. Longoria hit a three-run homer to highlight a six-run eighth.
In the ninth, pinch-hitter Dan Johnson hit a two-out, two-strike homer off Cory Wade, who started the year in the Tampa Bay organization. Wade was at Triple-A Durham -- where Johnson spent much of the season -- before opting out of his contract in June.
The Boston Red Sox lost 4-3 to the Baltimore Orioles, who scored twice with two outs in the ninth. Wednesday's finishes left the Rays one game ahead of Boston.
Tampa Bay, which faced a nine-game wild-card deficit in early September, trailed 7-0 in the eighth Wednesday. Longoria hit a three-run homer to highlight a six-run eighth.
In the ninth, pinch-hitter Dan Johnson hit a two-out, two-strike homer off Cory Wade, who started the year in the Tampa Bay organization. Wade was at Triple-A Durham -- where Johnson spent much of the season -- before opting out of his contract in June.
Stone Crabs GM honored by Florida State League
Charlotte Stone Crabs general manager Joe Hart has been named the Florida State League's executive of the year. Hart will be honored at an awards banquet Dec. 5 at the winter meetings in Dallas. Hart has worked in baseball for more than 15 years and has been with the Stone Crabs since their inaugural 2009 season.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Vogt celebrates first child's birth
Former Biscuits catcher Stephen Vogt skipped out on today's luncheon where the Rays were to honor himas their minor league player of the year.
He had good reason.
Vogt was at the airport desperately trying to get a flight home after his wife gave birth to their first child this morning. Daughter Payton Diane was born two weeks early but healthy in Washington state.
He had good reason.
Vogt was at the airport desperately trying to get a flight home after his wife gave birth to their first child this morning. Daughter Payton Diane was born two weeks early but healthy in Washington state.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Vogt, Moore, Hall land Rays' top minor league awards
Catcher Stephen Vogt and left-hander Matt Moore, who started the season with the Biscuits before July promotions to Triple-A Durham, have been named Tampa Bay's minor league player and pitcher of the year.
Vogt hit .298 with 17 home runs and 105 RBIs in 128 games between the Biscuits and Bulls. Moore was a combined 12-3 with a 1.92 ERA.
Charlotte infielder Matt Hall, who played at Auburn, won the organization's Erik Walker Community Champion Award, which recognizes teamwork, sportsmanship and community involvement. Erik Walker was a minor league pitcher for the Rays who died in October 2006 in a canoeing accident.
The Rays also named most valuable players for each of their affiliates.
Durham: utility Russ Canzler
Montgomery: Vogt
Charlotte: shortstop Hak-Ju Lee
Bowling Green: shortstop Derek Dietrich
Hudson Valley: first baseman Jeff Malm
Princeton: outfielder Drew Vettleson
GCL: right-hander Roberto Gomez
Dominican: infielder Adderly Rosa
Venezuela: catcher Oscar Hernandez
Best defensive player: Lee
Best baserunner: Charlotte infielder Tyler Bortnick
Best relief pitcher: Bowling Green left-hander Chris Rearick
Other Erik Walker nominees
Durham: Russ Canzler
Montgomery: Paul Phillips
Bowling Green: Austin Hubbard
Hudson Valley: Andrew Bellatti
Princeton: Drew Vettleson
All-time Erik Walker winners
2011: Matt Hall
2010: Stephen Vogt
2009: Ryan Wiegand
2008: Matt Spring
2007: Patrick Cottrell
Vogt hit .298 with 17 home runs and 105 RBIs in 128 games between the Biscuits and Bulls. Moore was a combined 12-3 with a 1.92 ERA.
Charlotte infielder Matt Hall, who played at Auburn, won the organization's Erik Walker Community Champion Award, which recognizes teamwork, sportsmanship and community involvement. Erik Walker was a minor league pitcher for the Rays who died in October 2006 in a canoeing accident.
The Rays also named most valuable players for each of their affiliates.
Durham: utility Russ Canzler
Montgomery: Vogt
Charlotte: shortstop Hak-Ju Lee
Bowling Green: shortstop Derek Dietrich
Hudson Valley: first baseman Jeff Malm
Princeton: outfielder Drew Vettleson
GCL: right-hander Roberto Gomez
Dominican: infielder Adderly Rosa
Venezuela: catcher Oscar Hernandez
Best defensive player: Lee
Best baserunner: Charlotte infielder Tyler Bortnick
Best relief pitcher: Bowling Green left-hander Chris Rearick
Other Erik Walker nominees
Durham: Russ Canzler
Montgomery: Paul Phillips
Bowling Green: Austin Hubbard
Hudson Valley: Andrew Bellatti
Princeton: Drew Vettleson
All-time Erik Walker winners
2011: Matt Hall
2010: Stephen Vogt
2009: Ryan Wiegand
2008: Matt Spring
2007: Patrick Cottrell
Friday, September 23, 2011
A little Moore on lefty's first start
A few goodies in the Rays' Friday notes on the historical significance of Matt Moore's first major league start Thursday. He tossed five shutout innings and struck out 11 in Tampa Bay's 15-8 win at the Yankees.
Moore's 11 Ks were the most in a first start since Stephen Strasburg punched out 14 last year against Pittsburgh. They were the most in a first start by an American Leaguer since Tim Hudson totaled 12 for Oakland against San Diego in June 1999.
Also, since 1919, only one other pitcher making his first start had at least 11 strikeouts and held the Yankees scoreless. That was Cleveland's Luis Tiant over nine innings on July 19, 1964.
The 11 Ks were the most by a left-hander in his first major league start since San Diego's Bob Shirley had 11 at Cincinnati on April 10, 1977.
Moore, at 22 years, 97 days old, was the youngest pitcher to have double-digit strikeouts at the Yankees since Detroit's Hal Newhouser fanned 14 on May 27, 1943. Newhouser was 22 years, 7 days old.
Moore's 11 Ks were the most in a first start since Stephen Strasburg punched out 14 last year against Pittsburgh. They were the most in a first start by an American Leaguer since Tim Hudson totaled 12 for Oakland against San Diego in June 1999.Also, since 1919, only one other pitcher making his first start had at least 11 strikeouts and held the Yankees scoreless. That was Cleveland's Luis Tiant over nine innings on July 19, 1964.
The 11 Ks were the most by a left-hander in his first major league start since San Diego's Bob Shirley had 11 at Cincinnati on April 10, 1977.
Moore, at 22 years, 97 days old, was the youngest pitcher to have double-digit strikeouts at the Yankees since Detroit's Hal Newhouser fanned 14 on May 27, 1943. Newhouser was 22 years, 7 days old.
Bowling Green radio voice jumping to Double-A
Tom Gauthier, the broadcaster for the Bowling Green Hot Rods the last three seasons, is leaving the team.
Gauthier has been hired to be the voice of his homestate New Hampshire Fisher Cats. The Double-A team is owned by the same group that owns the Hot Rods.
Gauthier started his baseball broadcasting career in the Eastern League in 2008 with the Portland Sea Dogs. From 2005-07, he was an official scorer for New Hampshire with occasional duties as a fill-in broadcaster.
Gauthier has been hired to be the voice of his homestate New Hampshire Fisher Cats. The Double-A team is owned by the same group that owns the Hot Rods.
Gauthier started his baseball broadcasting career in the Eastern League in 2008 with the Portland Sea Dogs. From 2005-07, he was an official scorer for New Hampshire with occasional duties as a fill-in broadcaster.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Moore above decent in first Tampa Bay start
Matt Moore wasn't too shabby tonight in his first major league start. He threw five innings, allowed four hits and totaled 11 strikeouts against the Yankees. The Rays lavished him with run support and lead 13-0. The 11 Ks are the most for a Ray in his first start.
9:45 update: Moore picks up his first win with Tampa Bay's 15-8 victory.
9:45 update: Moore picks up his first win with Tampa Bay's 15-8 victory.
Rays to name award winners Tuesday
The Rays are waiting until Tuesday to name their organizational awards and will do so at a sold-out luncheon that benefits their foundation.
Their minor league pitcher and hitter of the year will be named. Also, Tampa Bay's esteemed chapter of the Baseball Writers Association of America will name a team MVP, the team's top rookie and a Paul C. Smith Champion Award winner.
The luncheon is at the Carillon Hilton in St. Petersburg and starts at 11:30 a.m. Eastern.
Their minor league pitcher and hitter of the year will be named. Also, Tampa Bay's esteemed chapter of the Baseball Writers Association of America will name a team MVP, the team's top rookie and a Paul C. Smith Champion Award winner.
The luncheon is at the Carillon Hilton in St. Petersburg and starts at 11:30 a.m. Eastern.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Bortnick crowned 2011 BCS/RPI champion
All hail, infielder Tyler Bortnick, king of the inaugural full-season BCS/RPI rankings.I admit it's a belated list -- I thought I'd already posted the final results -- but the Rays are expected to name their organizational awards Friday. With that, this is just in time.
Bortnick scored 75 points over the course of the season's daily rankings. He landed among the top five 24 times and drew a organizational-best seven first-place nods.
In all, there were 157 players who drew at least one vote in the Biscuit Crumbs Standings/Rays Performance Indicator daily lists.
FINAL STANDINGS
Tyler Bortnick 75
Matt Moore 63
Cody Rogers 55
Russ Canzler 51
Alex Colome 48
Derek Dietrich 47
C.J. Riefenhauser 46
Stephen Vogt 44
Enny Romero 40
Hak-Ju Lee 38
DAYS IN RANKINGS
Tyler Bortnick 24
Russ Canzler 19
Matt Moore 18
Cody Rogers 17
FIRST-PLACE FINISHES
Tyler Bortnick 7
Matt Moore 5
Alex Colome 5
C.J. Riefenhauser 5
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Talbot absent from Columbus' Triple-A title win
Former Biscuits pitcher Mitch Talbot was scratched from his scheduled start in Tuesday's Triple-A championship game and didn't play a part in his Columbus Clippers' 8-3 win over the Omaha Storm Chasers. Dothan native and former Troy player Clint Robinson didn't play for Omaha, either.
Moore, Lee, Canzler on all-class all-star list
The Biscuits can lay claim to two players on Baseball America's all-classification minor league all-star teams.
Left-handed pitcher Matt Moore spent most of the season with Montgomery and was on the first team. Shortstop Hak-Ju Lee, who ended the year with the Biscuits, was on the second team, along with Durham's Russ Canzler.
Moore was also the magazine's Double-A pitcher of the year.
The Mobile BayBears were the only team with two first-teamers: first baseman Paul Goldschmidt and pitcher Tyler Skaggs.
Left-handed pitcher Matt Moore spent most of the season with Montgomery and was on the first team. Shortstop Hak-Ju Lee, who ended the year with the Biscuits, was on the second team, along with Durham's Russ Canzler.
Moore was also the magazine's Double-A pitcher of the year.
The Mobile BayBears were the only team with two first-teamers: first baseman Paul Goldschmidt and pitcher Tyler Skaggs.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Talbot set to start in Triple-A championship game
Former Biscuits pitcher Mitch Talbot, a star in the team's run to the 2006 Southern League title, will be the starter in Tuesday's Triple-A national championship game.Talbot takes the hill for the International League champion Columbus Clippers, who face the Omaha Storm Chasers at 7:05 p.m. The game is televised by Versus from Albuquerque's Isotopes Park.
Talbot is 2-0 with a 1.69 ERA and a complete game in two playoff starts for Columbus. In 2006, he threw two five-hit shutouts in the playoffs for Montgomery.
This year, Talbot was 4-2 with a 4.26 ERA for Columbus and won his final three regular-season starts. He had a 6.33 ERA in 11 starts with Cleveland.
Omaha right-hander Sean O'Sullivan starts against Talbot. He threw eight innings in his only playoff start for the Pacific Coast League champion Storm Chasers. O'Sullivan was 8-2 with a 4.22 ERA in 14 regular-season starts.
The Storm Chasers also feature first baseman Clint Robinson, a Dothan native who played at Troy. He's hit .385 in seven playoff games after a .326 regular season that included 23 home runs and 100 RBIs.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
BayBears win Southern League title
Josh Ford had three RBIs to help the Mobile BayBears win the Southern League championship with a 6-4 win over the Tennessee Smokies on Sunday.
He hit a two-run home run, singled twice and scored twice as the BayBears finished the best-of-5 series in four games.
He hit a two-run home run, singled twice and scored twice as the BayBears finished the best-of-5 series in four games.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Hueytown's Jameis Winston on Baseball America list
Hueytown's Jameis Winston, an elite football recruit who has committed to Florida State, is one of three Alabama players on Baseball America's early 2012 top-50 draft list.
Winston, who was the star of July's North-South All-Star doubleheader at Riverwalk Stadium, ranks 47th nationally. Winston said in July, before announcing his college choice, that he would go with baseball if he were taken in the first round.
Outfielder David Dahl of Oak Mountain High near Birmingham is eighth, while Samford left-handed pitcher Lex Rutledge is 46th.
Winston, who was the star of July's North-South All-Star doubleheader at Riverwalk Stadium, ranks 47th nationally. Winston said in July, before announcing his college choice, that he would go with baseball if he were taken in the first round.
Outfielder David Dahl of Oak Mountain High near Birmingham is eighth, while Samford left-handed pitcher Lex Rutledge is 46th.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Jai Miller 'savors experience' back in majors
Selma's Jai Miller, now with the Oakland A's, is enjoying his time back in the majors, so says the San Jose Mercury News.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Torres back with Rays, who release Buente
The Rays have promoted former Biscuits pitcher Alex Torres back to the big leagues along with first baseman Dan Johnson.
Torres made his major league debut July 18 against the Yankees before returning to Triple-A Durham, where he led the International League in strikeouts -- and walks -- this year. The Rays released right-hander Jay Buente, whom they claimed off waivers this season from Florida.
Torres made his major league debut July 18 against the Yankees before returning to Triple-A Durham, where he led the International League in strikeouts -- and walks -- this year. The Rays released right-hander Jay Buente, whom they claimed off waivers this season from Florida.
Rhyne Hughes draws drug suspension
Former Biscuits first baseman Rhyne Hughes, who played at Triple-A Norfolk in the Baltimore organization, has drawn a 50-game suspension after testing positive for an amphetamine.
Major League Baseball announced the suspension today. It will start at the beginning of next season.
Hughes, who turned 28 last week, had a .249 average in 92 games this year at Norfolk. He played in 14 major league games with Baltimore last year and was with Montgomery from 2007-09.
Major League Baseball announced the suspension today. It will start at the beginning of next season.
Hughes, who turned 28 last week, had a .249 average in 92 games this year at Norfolk. He played in 14 major league games with Baltimore last year and was with Montgomery from 2007-09.
Rays below par in organizational standings
The Rays were a combined five games under .500 in their minor league organization this year. That number includes the Venezuelan championship and Dominican teams.
1. Texas Rangers 431-332 (.565)
2. Los Angeles Dodgers 414-349 (.543)
3. San Francisco Giants 411-352 (.539)
4. Philadelphia Phillies 437-400 (.522)
5. St. Louis Cardinals 428-399 (.518)
6. Toronto Blue Jays 430-405 (.515)
7. San Diego Padres 393-370 (.515)
8. Cleveland Indians 392-369 (.515)
9. Oakland Athletics 392-370 (.514)
10. Pittsburgh Pirates 429-409 (.512)
11. Washington Nationals 387-370 (.511)
12. Chicago Cubs 421-409 (.507)
13. Los Angeles Angels 386-376 (.507)
14. Cincinnati Reds 420-415 (.503)
15. Chicago White Sox 386-386 (.500)
16. New York Mets 450-453 (.498)
17. Tampa Bay Rays 450-455 (.497)
18. Colorado Rockies 389-397 (.495)
19. Florida Marlins 375-383 (.495)
20. New York Yankees 412-422 (.494)
21. Kansas City Royals 408-418 (.494)
22. Boston Red Sox 376-392 (.490)
23. Minnesota Twins 372-387 (.490)
24. Arizona Diamondbacks 409-429 (.488)
25. Baltimore Orioles 374-394 (.487)
26. Seattle Mariners 437-467 (.483)
27. Atlanta Braves 356-400 (.471)
28. Detroit Tigers 390-445 (.467)
29. Milwaukee Brewers 355-406 (.466)
30. Houston Astros 337-488 (.408)
Best teams
DSL Angels 52-18 (.743)
AZL Giants 41-15 (.732)
GCL Marlins 38-16 (.704)
San Antonio, Double-A (Padres) 94-46 (.671)
Johnson City, rookie (Cardinals) 45-23 (.662)
Worst teams
DSL Blue Jays 20-49 (.290)
AZL Brewers 17-39 (.304)
Aberdeen, short-season A (Orioles) 24-51 (.320)
DSL Athletics 24-46 (.343)
DSL Diamondbacks 24-45 (.348)
full season: Corpus Christi, Double-A (Astros) 50-90 (.357)
1. Texas Rangers 431-332 (.565)
2. Los Angeles Dodgers 414-349 (.543)
3. San Francisco Giants 411-352 (.539)
4. Philadelphia Phillies 437-400 (.522)
5. St. Louis Cardinals 428-399 (.518)
6. Toronto Blue Jays 430-405 (.515)
7. San Diego Padres 393-370 (.515)
8. Cleveland Indians 392-369 (.515)
9. Oakland Athletics 392-370 (.514)
10. Pittsburgh Pirates 429-409 (.512)
11. Washington Nationals 387-370 (.511)
12. Chicago Cubs 421-409 (.507)
13. Los Angeles Angels 386-376 (.507)
14. Cincinnati Reds 420-415 (.503)
15. Chicago White Sox 386-386 (.500)
16. New York Mets 450-453 (.498)
17. Tampa Bay Rays 450-455 (.497)
18. Colorado Rockies 389-397 (.495)
19. Florida Marlins 375-383 (.495)
20. New York Yankees 412-422 (.494)
21. Kansas City Royals 408-418 (.494)
22. Boston Red Sox 376-392 (.490)
23. Minnesota Twins 372-387 (.490)
24. Arizona Diamondbacks 409-429 (.488)
25. Baltimore Orioles 374-394 (.487)
26. Seattle Mariners 437-467 (.483)
27. Atlanta Braves 356-400 (.471)
28. Detroit Tigers 390-445 (.467)
29. Milwaukee Brewers 355-406 (.466)
30. Houston Astros 337-488 (.408)
Best teams
DSL Angels 52-18 (.743)
AZL Giants 41-15 (.732)
GCL Marlins 38-16 (.704)
San Antonio, Double-A (Padres) 94-46 (.671)
Johnson City, rookie (Cardinals) 45-23 (.662)
Worst teams
DSL Blue Jays 20-49 (.290)
AZL Brewers 17-39 (.304)
Aberdeen, short-season A (Orioles) 24-51 (.320)
DSL Athletics 24-46 (.343)
DSL Diamondbacks 24-45 (.348)
full season: Corpus Christi, Double-A (Astros) 50-90 (.357)
Rays' instructional league schedule
The Rays will have an instructional league game at Tropicana Field -- playoffs permitting, of course. They'll host the Orioles on Oct. 4. Otherwise, their home games are in Port Charlotte, Fla.
All times Eastern
Monday, Sept. 19: Twins at Rays, 1 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 20: Rays at Orioles, 1 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 21: intrasquad games
Thursday, Sept. 22: Rays at Twins, 1 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 23: intrasquad games
Saturday, Sept. 24: Orioles at Rays, 10 a.m.
Sunday, Sept. 25: off
Monday, Sept. 26: Red Sox at Rays, 1 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 27: Mets at Rays, 1 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 28: Rays at Twins, 1 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 29: Rays at Red Sox, 1 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 30: intrasquad games
Saturday, Oct. 1: Orioles at Rays, 10 a.m.
Sunday, Oct. 2: off
Monday, Oct. 3: Rays at Mets, 1 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 4: Orioles at Rays, 1 p.m. at Tropicana Field
Wednesday, Oct. 5: intrasquad games
Thursday, Oct. 6: Rays at Twins, 1 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 7: Orioles at Rays, 10 a.m.
All times Eastern
Monday, Sept. 19: Twins at Rays, 1 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 20: Rays at Orioles, 1 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 21: intrasquad games
Thursday, Sept. 22: Rays at Twins, 1 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 23: intrasquad games
Saturday, Sept. 24: Orioles at Rays, 10 a.m.
Sunday, Sept. 25: off
Monday, Sept. 26: Red Sox at Rays, 1 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 27: Mets at Rays, 1 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 28: Rays at Twins, 1 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 29: Rays at Red Sox, 1 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 30: intrasquad games
Saturday, Oct. 1: Orioles at Rays, 10 a.m.
Sunday, Oct. 2: off
Monday, Oct. 3: Rays at Mets, 1 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 4: Orioles at Rays, 1 p.m. at Tropicana Field
Wednesday, Oct. 5: intrasquad games
Thursday, Oct. 6: Rays at Twins, 1 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 7: Orioles at Rays, 10 a.m.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Shields is Tampa Bay's Clemente nominee
Pitcher James Shields, one of the Original Biscuits in 2004, is being nominated by the Tampa Bay Rays for this year's Roberto Clemente award.
The award, named for the Hall of Fame outfielder, recognizes a major leaguer for their positive contributions on and off the field, including sportsmanship and community involvement. It's the second straight season Tampa Bay has nominated Shields.
The award, named for the Hall of Fame outfielder, recognizes a major leaguer for their positive contributions on and off the field, including sportsmanship and community involvement. It's the second straight season Tampa Bay has nominated Shields.
Torres, Malm 2 of several Rays who led league
Alex Torres kept his dual-pitching category championships this year, despite moving from the Double-A Southern League to the Triple-A International League.
After leading the Southern League with the Biscuits in both strikeouts and walks last year, he did it again with Durham in the International League.
The Rays did have one home run champion: Jeff Malm hit 12 in the New York-Penn League. Pitchers also drilled Malm a league-high 13 times.
Here are the Tampa Bay minor leaguers who led their leagues in something, almost anything, this year:
DURHAM (International League)
Strikeouts: Alex Torres 156
Walks issued: Alex Torres 83
Slugging percentage: Russ Canzler .530
Extra-base hits: Russ Canzler 62
Sacrifice hits (tied): J.J. Furmaniak 15
MONTGOMERY (Southern League)
Games started (tied): Shane Dyer 28
Games finished: Zach Quate 45
Hits allowed (tied): Shane Dyer 191
Wild pitches: Chris Archer 18
CHARLOTTE (Florida State League)
Steals: Tyler Bortnick 43
On-base percentage: Tyler Bortnick .428
Hit by pitch: Tyler Bortnick 25
Sacrifice flies: Mike Sheridan 12
Sacrifice hits allowed (tied): Kyle Lobstein 8, Alex Colome 8
Hit batters: Alex Koronis 16
Balks (tied): Merrill Kelly 3, Alex Koronis 3
BOWLING GREEN (Midwest League)
Triples (tied): Cody Rogers 11
Walks taken: Robby Price 86
Games finished: Chris Rearick 43
Wild pitches: Braulio Lara 22
HUDSON VALLEY (New York-Penn League)
Home runs: Jeff Malm 12
Hit by pitch: Jeff Malm 13
Sacrifice hits allowed (tied): Jacob Partridge 5, Andrew Bellatti 5
Sacrifice flies allowed (tied): Jacob Partridge 5
PRINCETON (Appalachian League)
On-base percentage: Taylor Motter .436
Walks taken: Cameron Seitzer 43
Winning percentage (tied): Matt Spann .800 (4-1)
After leading the Southern League with the Biscuits in both strikeouts and walks last year, he did it again with Durham in the International League.
The Rays did have one home run champion: Jeff Malm hit 12 in the New York-Penn League. Pitchers also drilled Malm a league-high 13 times.
Here are the Tampa Bay minor leaguers who led their leagues in something, almost anything, this year:
DURHAM (International League)
Strikeouts: Alex Torres 156
Walks issued: Alex Torres 83
Slugging percentage: Russ Canzler .530
Extra-base hits: Russ Canzler 62
Sacrifice hits (tied): J.J. Furmaniak 15
MONTGOMERY (Southern League)
Games started (tied): Shane Dyer 28
Games finished: Zach Quate 45
Hits allowed (tied): Shane Dyer 191
Wild pitches: Chris Archer 18
CHARLOTTE (Florida State League)
Steals: Tyler Bortnick 43
On-base percentage: Tyler Bortnick .428
Hit by pitch: Tyler Bortnick 25
Sacrifice flies: Mike Sheridan 12
Sacrifice hits allowed (tied): Kyle Lobstein 8, Alex Colome 8
Hit batters: Alex Koronis 16
Balks (tied): Merrill Kelly 3, Alex Koronis 3
BOWLING GREEN (Midwest League)
Triples (tied): Cody Rogers 11
Walks taken: Robby Price 86
Games finished: Chris Rearick 43
Wild pitches: Braulio Lara 22
HUDSON VALLEY (New York-Penn League)
Home runs: Jeff Malm 12
Hit by pitch: Jeff Malm 13
Sacrifice hits allowed (tied): Jacob Partridge 5, Andrew Bellatti 5
Sacrifice flies allowed (tied): Jacob Partridge 5
PRINCETON (Appalachian League)
On-base percentage: Taylor Motter .436
Walks taken: Cameron Seitzer 43
Winning percentage (tied): Matt Spann .800 (4-1)
Caminero top hitter, Moore top pitcher among Rays
Tampa Bay's organizational leaders this year ...
Hitting -- Joel Caminero, Princeton: .330
Home runs -- Derek Dietrich, Bowling Green: 22
RBIs -- Stephen Vogt, Durham/Montgomery: 105
Steals -- Tyler Bortnick, Charlotte: 43
ERA -- Matt Moore, Durham/Montgomery: 1.92, was 12-3
Wins -- George Jensen, Bowling Green: 13-4, had a 4.28 ERA
Saves -- Zach Quate, Montgomery; Chris Rearick, Bowling Green: 20
Strikeouts -- Matt Moore, Durham/Montgomery: 210
Hitting -- Joel Caminero, Princeton: .330
Home runs -- Derek Dietrich, Bowling Green: 22
RBIs -- Stephen Vogt, Durham/Montgomery: 105
Steals -- Tyler Bortnick, Charlotte: 43
ERA -- Matt Moore, Durham/Montgomery: 1.92, was 12-3
Wins -- George Jensen, Bowling Green: 13-4, had a 4.28 ERA
Saves -- Zach Quate, Montgomery; Chris Rearick, Bowling Green: 20
Strikeouts -- Matt Moore, Durham/Montgomery: 210
BayBears, Smokies set for Southern League battle
The mighty Mobile BayBears needed all five games of their semifinal series to defeat the Birmingham Barons and advance to the Southern League championship series.
Mobile will face the Tennessee Smokies with Game 1 at Mobile on Wednesday.
The BayBears, after rallying in the ninth inning in a Game 3 win, beat the Barons 7-1 on Monday in the decisive fifth game. The Smokies swept Chattanooga in their semifinal series and are in the finals for a third straight year. They lost to Jacksonville the last two years.
Wednesday: at Mobile, 7:05 p.m.
Thursday: at Mobile, 7:05 p.m.
Saturday: at Tennessee, 7:15 p.m. EDT**
Sunday: at Tennessee, 5 p.m., if necessary
Monday: at Tennessee, 7:15 p.m., if necessary
**--The Smokies regularly started Saturday games at 6:15 p.m. Eastern this season. However, the mighty Vols play at Florida at 3:30 p.m. EDT Saturday, so a 6:15 crowd might be slim.
Mobile will face the Tennessee Smokies with Game 1 at Mobile on Wednesday.
The BayBears, after rallying in the ninth inning in a Game 3 win, beat the Barons 7-1 on Monday in the decisive fifth game. The Smokies swept Chattanooga in their semifinal series and are in the finals for a third straight year. They lost to Jacksonville the last two years.
Wednesday: at Mobile, 7:05 p.m.
Thursday: at Mobile, 7:05 p.m.
Saturday: at Tennessee, 7:15 p.m. EDT**
Sunday: at Tennessee, 5 p.m., if necessary
Monday: at Tennessee, 7:15 p.m., if necessary
**--The Smokies regularly started Saturday games at 6:15 p.m. Eastern this season. However, the mighty Vols play at Florida at 3:30 p.m. EDT Saturday, so a 6:15 crowd might be slim.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Biscuits GM top woman in Southern League
Marla Terranova Vickers, after her first year as Biscuits general manager, has been named the Southern League's Woman of Excellence for a second time.
Vickers became only the fourth woman in the minor leagues -- and the first at Double-A or higher -- this season, her ninth in Montgomery. She came to the city in 2003 to prepare for the team's inaugural 2004 season.
Vickers, who was also the league's Woman of Excellence in 2006, will be the league's nominee for minor league Woman Executive of the Year. That award is presented by Minor League Baseball at the December Winter Meetings.
Vickers became only the fourth woman in the minor leagues -- and the first at Double-A or higher -- this season, her ninth in Montgomery. She came to the city in 2003 to prepare for the team's inaugural 2004 season.
Vickers, who was also the league's Woman of Excellence in 2006, will be the league's nominee for minor league Woman Executive of the Year. That award is presented by Minor League Baseball at the December Winter Meetings.
Rays cut Delaney to create Moore space
Reliever Rob Delaney was the 40-man sacrifice so the Rays could add Matt Moore.
Delaney had a 1.86 ERA in 50 games at Durham this year, though he allowed 12 of 23 inherited runners to score. The right-hander, who turned 27 last week, made four appearances with the Rays.
Delaney had a 1.86 ERA in 50 games at Durham this year, though he allowed 12 of 23 inherited runners to score. The right-hander, who turned 27 last week, made four appearances with the Rays.
Moore is first major leaguer from Hot Rods
Didn't realize this until the Bowling Green release landed in my in-box, but left-hander Matt Moore will be the first former Hot Rod to reach the major leagues.
Bowling Green began play in 2009 with Moore on its original roster. The Biscuits had a five-year head start and Moore will be No. 52 on that list. He's in line to be the sixth to debut this year and the first from the 2011 team.
Bowling Green began play in 2009 with Moore on its original roster. The Biscuits had a five-year head start and Moore will be No. 52 on that list. He's in line to be the sixth to debut this year and the first from the 2011 team.
Tampa Bay instructional league roster
Shortstop Hak-Ju Lee is the only Biscuit among 54 players who reported today for Tampa Bay's fall instructional league. They'll play their first game next Monday.
One name of note is catcher Oscar Hernandez, who had a record-setting, most valuable player season in the Venezuelan Summer League. He hit .402 with 21 home runs and 66 RBIs in 69 games.
Here's the full roster, sorted by position and where the player was for most of the season. Hence, Lee is listed as Charlotte, though he finished in Montgomery.
RIGHT-HANDED PITCHERS
Charlotte -- Albert Suarez, Jake Thompson
Bowling Green -- Wilking Rodriguez, Victor Mateo, Eliazer Suero
Hudson Valley -- Lenny Linsky, Parker Markel
Princeton -- Jeff Ames, Ian Kendall, Eduar Quinonez, Matt Swilley
GCL -- Jacob Faria, Isaac Gil, Roberto Gomez
Did not play -- Taylor Guerrieri
LEFT-HANDED PITCHERS
Bowling Green -- Braulio Lara, C.J. Riefenhauser, Enny Romero
Hudson Valley -- Ryan Carpenter
Princeton -- Kevin James, Felipe Rivero, Matt Spann
GCL -- Blake Snell
Did not play -- Grayson Garvin
CATCHERS
Bowling Green -- Luke Bailey
Hudson Valley -- Matt Rice
Princeton -- Jake DePew, Justin O'Conner
DSL -- Jesus Araiza
VSL -- Oscar Hernandez
INFIELDERS
Charlotte -- Hak-Ju Lee
Bowling Green -- Derek Dietrich
Hudson Valley -- Jeff Malm, Juniel Querecuto
Princeton -- Ryan Brett, Jake Hager, Cameron Seitzer
GCL -- John Alexander, Johnny Eierman, Brandon Martin, Cesar Perez, Riccio Torrez
Did not play -- Tyler Goeddel
OUTFIELDERS
Bowling Green -- Todd Glaesmann, Kevin Kiermaier
Princeton -- DeShun Dixon, Josh Sale, Drew Vettleson
GCL -- James Harris
Did not play -- Mikey Mahtook
REHAB
Bowling Green -- Hector Guevara
Hudson Valley -- Kes Carter
GCL -- Granden Goetzman
Did not play -- Matt Ramsey
One name of note is catcher Oscar Hernandez, who had a record-setting, most valuable player season in the Venezuelan Summer League. He hit .402 with 21 home runs and 66 RBIs in 69 games.
Here's the full roster, sorted by position and where the player was for most of the season. Hence, Lee is listed as Charlotte, though he finished in Montgomery.
RIGHT-HANDED PITCHERS
Charlotte -- Albert Suarez, Jake Thompson
Bowling Green -- Wilking Rodriguez, Victor Mateo, Eliazer Suero
Hudson Valley -- Lenny Linsky, Parker Markel
Princeton -- Jeff Ames, Ian Kendall, Eduar Quinonez, Matt Swilley
GCL -- Jacob Faria, Isaac Gil, Roberto Gomez
Did not play -- Taylor Guerrieri
LEFT-HANDED PITCHERS
Bowling Green -- Braulio Lara, C.J. Riefenhauser, Enny Romero
Hudson Valley -- Ryan Carpenter
Princeton -- Kevin James, Felipe Rivero, Matt Spann
GCL -- Blake Snell
Did not play -- Grayson Garvin
CATCHERS
Bowling Green -- Luke Bailey
Hudson Valley -- Matt Rice
Princeton -- Jake DePew, Justin O'Conner
DSL -- Jesus Araiza
VSL -- Oscar Hernandez
INFIELDERS
Charlotte -- Hak-Ju Lee
Bowling Green -- Derek Dietrich
Hudson Valley -- Jeff Malm, Juniel Querecuto
Princeton -- Ryan Brett, Jake Hager, Cameron Seitzer
GCL -- John Alexander, Johnny Eierman, Brandon Martin, Cesar Perez, Riccio Torrez
Did not play -- Tyler Goeddel
OUTFIELDERS
Bowling Green -- Todd Glaesmann, Kevin Kiermaier
Princeton -- DeShun Dixon, Josh Sale, Drew Vettleson
GCL -- James Harris
Did not play -- Mikey Mahtook
REHAB
Bowling Green -- Hector Guevara
Hudson Valley -- Kes Carter
GCL -- Granden Goetzman
Did not play -- Matt Ramsey
Tampa Bay's players, sorted by draft year
We did this at the beginning of the season, so it seems natural to do it again at the end. Here's a breakdown of Tampa Bay's players by draft (or how they were acquired) and where they were before the Sept. 1 roster moves.
There were some calls to make. Outfielder Craige Lyerly had left Hudson Valley but had not been activated at Bowling Green, so he's listed as Hudson Valley here.
*--Player was on the disabled list just before the Sept. 1 roster moves. **--Pitcher Felix Fuentes is on Charlotte's restricted list. Pitcher Wilmer Almonte is on Hudson Valley's reserved list.
2011
Charlotte -- IF Riccio Torrez (4th round pick)
Bowling Green -- P Lenny Linsky (2nd), IF Taylor Motter (17th)
Hudson Valley -- P Jake Floethe (6th), P Ryan Carpenter (7th), C Matt Rice (9th), P Andy Bass (18th), P Charlie Cononie (24th), P Brooks Belter (25th), IF Raymond Church (26th), IF Jonathan Koscso (29th), P Theron Geith (39th), P Stayton Thomas (43rd)
Princeton -- SS Jake Hager (1st), P Jeff Ames (supplemental first), IF Cameron Seitzer (11th), P Garret Smith (20th), IF Ryan Terry (21st), P Lucas Irvine (27th), P David Kubiak (36th), P Shay Crawford (41st)
GCL -- Brandon Martin (supplemental first), James Harris (supplemental first), Kes Carter (supplemental first), Blake Snell (supplemental first), Granden Goetzman (2nd), Johnny Eierman (3rd), John Alexander (8th), Jacob Faria (10th), Isaac Gil (31st), Ryan Turner (32nd), Daniel Bream (33rd), Zach Butler (34th), Brandon Choate (38th), Michael Bourdon (42nd), Ian Tomkins (50th)
2010
Charlotte -- P Jake Thompson (2nd), P Merrill Kelly (8th), P C.J. Riefenhauser (20th), P Adam Liberatore (21st)
Bowling Green -- SS Derek Dietrich (2nd), IF Phil Wunderlich (12nd), IF Robby Price (13rd), P Austin Hubbard (14th), P Nate Garcia (16th), P Jimmy Patterson (18th), OF Nick Schwaner (30th), OF Kevin Kiermaier (31st), OF Steve Tinoco (34th), P Chris Rearick (41st), P George Jensen (46th)
Hudson Valley -- OF Craige Lyerly (19th), P Justin Woodall (26th), OF Chris Winder (27th), P Robert Dickmann (36th), P Parker Markel (39th), P Mickey Jannis (44th),
Princeton -- OF Josh Sale (1st), C Justin O'Conner (1st), OF Drew Vettleson (supplemental first), IF Ryan Brett (3rd), P Ian Kendall (5th), C Jake DePew (9th), OF Deshun Dixon (10th), P Brandon Henderson (15th), P Matt Spann (25th)
GCL -- Jesse Hahn (6th), Travis Flores (11th)
2009
Montgomery -- P Zach Quate (14th), C David Wendt (50th)
Charlotte -- OF Brett Nommensen* (8th), P Alex Koronis (11th), 2B Tyler Bortnick (16th), P Scott Shuman (19th), OF Chris Murrill* (35th), P Matt Stabelfeld (41st)
Bowling Green -- OF Todd Glaesmann* (3rd), C Luke Bailey (4th), OF Cody Rogers* (7th)
Hudson Valley -- 1B Jeff Malm (5th), P Andrew Bellatti (12nd), P Jacob Partridge (18th)
Princeton -- P Kevin James (9th), P Matt Swilley (21st), P Marcus Jensen (30th)
2008
Durham -- SS Tim Beckham (1st)
Montgomery -- P Kyle Lobstein (2nd), P Shane Dyer (6th), P Neil Schenk (23rd), P Marquis Fleming (24th)
Charlotte -- C Jake Jefferies (3rd), OF Ty Morrison (4th), IF Mike Sheridan (5th), OF Anthony Scelfo (8th), IF Matt Hall (10th), P Josh Satow (25th), P Mike Jarman (26th)
Bowling Green -- P Jason McEachern* (13rd)
Hudson Valley -- OF Brian Bryles (12nd), P Trevor Shull (19th)
GCL -- P Shawn Smith (9th)
2007
Tampa Bay -- P David Price (1st)
Durham -- P Matt Moore (8th), C Stephen Vogt (12nd)
Montgomery -- P Nick Barnese (3rd), OF Emeel Salem* (6th), IF Greg Sexton (10th)
Charlotte -- OF Dustin Biell (5th), OF Reid Fronk (7th), P Joe Cruz (30th)
2006
Tampa Bay -- 3B Evan Longoria (1st), P Alex Cobb* (4th), OF Desmond Jennings (10th)
Durham -- C Nevin Ashley (6th), P Ryan Reid* (7th)
Montgomery -- IF Shawn O'Malley (5th), OF Kyeong Kang (15th)
Bowling Green -- IF Robi Estrada (19th), C Mark Thomas (22nd)
2005
Tampa Bay -- P Jeremy Hellickson (4th)
Durham -- OF John Matulia (10th)
Montgomery -- IF Henry Wrigley (14th)
2004
Tampa Bay -- P Jeff Niemann (1st), IF Reid Brignac (2nd), P Wade Davis (3rd), P Jake McGee (5th)
Durham -- P Andy Sonnanstine (13rd)
2003
Tampa Bay -- C John Jaso (12nd)
2002
Tampa Bay -- OF B.J. Upton (1st)
2000
Tampa Bay -- P James Shields (16th)
Waiver claims
Tampa Bay -- C Jose Lobaton*
Durham -- P Jay Buente, P Rob Delaney, P Mike Ekstrom
Trade
Tampa Bay -- OF Sam Fuld, P Brandon Gomes, OF Matt Joyce, P J.P. Howell, IF/OF Sean Rodriguez, OF Justin Ruggiano*, C Kelly Shoppach, IF/OF Ben Zobrist
Durham -- P Chris Archer, C Robinson Chirinos, OF Brandon Guyer, P Adam Russell, P Alex Torres
Mongomery -- IF Cole Figueroa, SS Hak-Ju Lee, OF John Shelby III, IF Matt Sweeney, OF Isaias Velasquez
Rule 5 minor league draft
Durham -- P Richard De Los Santos*
Non-drafted free agents
Tampa Bay -- IF Elliot Johnson
Durham -- P Brian Baker
Montgomery -- C Craig Albernaz
Charlotte -- P Kirby Yates
Bowling Green -- C Keith Castillo, IF Julio Cedeno, P Steve Hiscock
Hudson Valley -- IF Tanner Biagini, C Kyle Holloway, P Dave Laufer, P Drew Leary
Free agents
Tampa Bay -- P Juan Cruz, OF Johnny Damon, P Kyle Farnsworth, IF Casey Kotchman, P Joel Peralta, P Cesar Ramos
Durham -- IF/OF Russ Canzler, P Dane De La Rosa, IF J.J. Furmaniak, IF Dan Johnson, IF Daniel Mayora, IF Ray Olmedo
Montgomery -- P Matt Bush, P Ricky Orta*, P Jim Paduch, P Paul Phillips
Charlotte -- IF Omar Luna, RHP Albert Suarez, C Alejandro Torres
International free agents
Durham -- OF Leslie Anderson
Montgomery -- Alex Colome, Frank De Los Santos, Sergio Espinosa
Charlotte -- P Chris Andujar*, P Felix Fuentes**, P Deivis Mavarez
Bowling Green -- C Mayo Acosta, IF Omar Bencomo, P Jairo De La Rosa*, IF Hector Guevara*, P Braulio Lara, P Victor Mateo, P Wilking Rodriguez, P Enny Romero, P Eliazer Suero
Hudson Valley -- P Wilmer Almonte**, P Roque Colon, P Roberto Gomez, OF Cesar Guillen, C Gerardo Olivares, SS Juniel Querecuto, 3B Leonardo Reginatto, C Alejandro Segovia
Princeton -- OF Joel Caminero, IF Felix Gonzalez, P Reinaldo Lopez, P Jose Molina, P Eduar Quinonez, P Felipe Rivero, C Junior Rodriguez, P Pedro Silvestre
GCL -- OF Ismel Antunez, OF Edward Dorville, P Hugo Duarte, P Eli Echarry, IF Darryl George, P Joan Guerrero, P Stepan Havlicek, IF Julian Morillo, C Omar Narvaez, IF Cesar Perez, OF Jonathan Quinonez, IF Hector Rodriguez, OF Ariel Soriano, P Bruidlin Suero
There were some calls to make. Outfielder Craige Lyerly had left Hudson Valley but had not been activated at Bowling Green, so he's listed as Hudson Valley here.
*--Player was on the disabled list just before the Sept. 1 roster moves. **--Pitcher Felix Fuentes is on Charlotte's restricted list. Pitcher Wilmer Almonte is on Hudson Valley's reserved list.
2011
Charlotte -- IF Riccio Torrez (4th round pick)
Bowling Green -- P Lenny Linsky (2nd), IF Taylor Motter (17th)
Hudson Valley -- P Jake Floethe (6th), P Ryan Carpenter (7th), C Matt Rice (9th), P Andy Bass (18th), P Charlie Cononie (24th), P Brooks Belter (25th), IF Raymond Church (26th), IF Jonathan Koscso (29th), P Theron Geith (39th), P Stayton Thomas (43rd)
Princeton -- SS Jake Hager (1st), P Jeff Ames (supplemental first), IF Cameron Seitzer (11th), P Garret Smith (20th), IF Ryan Terry (21st), P Lucas Irvine (27th), P David Kubiak (36th), P Shay Crawford (41st)
GCL -- Brandon Martin (supplemental first), James Harris (supplemental first), Kes Carter (supplemental first), Blake Snell (supplemental first), Granden Goetzman (2nd), Johnny Eierman (3rd), John Alexander (8th), Jacob Faria (10th), Isaac Gil (31st), Ryan Turner (32nd), Daniel Bream (33rd), Zach Butler (34th), Brandon Choate (38th), Michael Bourdon (42nd), Ian Tomkins (50th)
2010
Charlotte -- P Jake Thompson (2nd), P Merrill Kelly (8th), P C.J. Riefenhauser (20th), P Adam Liberatore (21st)
Bowling Green -- SS Derek Dietrich (2nd), IF Phil Wunderlich (12nd), IF Robby Price (13rd), P Austin Hubbard (14th), P Nate Garcia (16th), P Jimmy Patterson (18th), OF Nick Schwaner (30th), OF Kevin Kiermaier (31st), OF Steve Tinoco (34th), P Chris Rearick (41st), P George Jensen (46th)
Hudson Valley -- OF Craige Lyerly (19th), P Justin Woodall (26th), OF Chris Winder (27th), P Robert Dickmann (36th), P Parker Markel (39th), P Mickey Jannis (44th),
Princeton -- OF Josh Sale (1st), C Justin O'Conner (1st), OF Drew Vettleson (supplemental first), IF Ryan Brett (3rd), P Ian Kendall (5th), C Jake DePew (9th), OF Deshun Dixon (10th), P Brandon Henderson (15th), P Matt Spann (25th)
GCL -- Jesse Hahn (6th), Travis Flores (11th)
2009
Montgomery -- P Zach Quate (14th), C David Wendt (50th)
Charlotte -- OF Brett Nommensen* (8th), P Alex Koronis (11th), 2B Tyler Bortnick (16th), P Scott Shuman (19th), OF Chris Murrill* (35th), P Matt Stabelfeld (41st)
Bowling Green -- OF Todd Glaesmann* (3rd), C Luke Bailey (4th), OF Cody Rogers* (7th)
Hudson Valley -- 1B Jeff Malm (5th), P Andrew Bellatti (12nd), P Jacob Partridge (18th)
Princeton -- P Kevin James (9th), P Matt Swilley (21st), P Marcus Jensen (30th)
2008
Durham -- SS Tim Beckham (1st)
Montgomery -- P Kyle Lobstein (2nd), P Shane Dyer (6th), P Neil Schenk (23rd), P Marquis Fleming (24th)
Charlotte -- C Jake Jefferies (3rd), OF Ty Morrison (4th), IF Mike Sheridan (5th), OF Anthony Scelfo (8th), IF Matt Hall (10th), P Josh Satow (25th), P Mike Jarman (26th)
Bowling Green -- P Jason McEachern* (13rd)
Hudson Valley -- OF Brian Bryles (12nd), P Trevor Shull (19th)
GCL -- P Shawn Smith (9th)
2007
Tampa Bay -- P David Price (1st)
Durham -- P Matt Moore (8th), C Stephen Vogt (12nd)
Montgomery -- P Nick Barnese (3rd), OF Emeel Salem* (6th), IF Greg Sexton (10th)
Charlotte -- OF Dustin Biell (5th), OF Reid Fronk (7th), P Joe Cruz (30th)
2006
Tampa Bay -- 3B Evan Longoria (1st), P Alex Cobb* (4th), OF Desmond Jennings (10th)
Durham -- C Nevin Ashley (6th), P Ryan Reid* (7th)
Montgomery -- IF Shawn O'Malley (5th), OF Kyeong Kang (15th)
Bowling Green -- IF Robi Estrada (19th), C Mark Thomas (22nd)
2005
Tampa Bay -- P Jeremy Hellickson (4th)
Durham -- OF John Matulia (10th)
Montgomery -- IF Henry Wrigley (14th)
2004
Tampa Bay -- P Jeff Niemann (1st), IF Reid Brignac (2nd), P Wade Davis (3rd), P Jake McGee (5th)
Durham -- P Andy Sonnanstine (13rd)
2003
Tampa Bay -- C John Jaso (12nd)
2002
Tampa Bay -- OF B.J. Upton (1st)
2000
Tampa Bay -- P James Shields (16th)
Waiver claims
Tampa Bay -- C Jose Lobaton*
Durham -- P Jay Buente, P Rob Delaney, P Mike Ekstrom
Trade
Tampa Bay -- OF Sam Fuld, P Brandon Gomes, OF Matt Joyce, P J.P. Howell, IF/OF Sean Rodriguez, OF Justin Ruggiano*, C Kelly Shoppach, IF/OF Ben Zobrist
Durham -- P Chris Archer, C Robinson Chirinos, OF Brandon Guyer, P Adam Russell, P Alex Torres
Mongomery -- IF Cole Figueroa, SS Hak-Ju Lee, OF John Shelby III, IF Matt Sweeney, OF Isaias Velasquez
Rule 5 minor league draft
Durham -- P Richard De Los Santos*
Non-drafted free agents
Tampa Bay -- IF Elliot Johnson
Durham -- P Brian Baker
Montgomery -- C Craig Albernaz
Charlotte -- P Kirby Yates
Bowling Green -- C Keith Castillo, IF Julio Cedeno, P Steve Hiscock
Hudson Valley -- IF Tanner Biagini, C Kyle Holloway, P Dave Laufer, P Drew Leary
Free agents
Tampa Bay -- P Juan Cruz, OF Johnny Damon, P Kyle Farnsworth, IF Casey Kotchman, P Joel Peralta, P Cesar Ramos
Durham -- IF/OF Russ Canzler, P Dane De La Rosa, IF J.J. Furmaniak, IF Dan Johnson, IF Daniel Mayora, IF Ray Olmedo
Montgomery -- P Matt Bush, P Ricky Orta*, P Jim Paduch, P Paul Phillips
Charlotte -- IF Omar Luna, RHP Albert Suarez, C Alejandro Torres
International free agents
Durham -- OF Leslie Anderson
Montgomery -- Alex Colome, Frank De Los Santos, Sergio Espinosa
Charlotte -- P Chris Andujar*, P Felix Fuentes**, P Deivis Mavarez
Bowling Green -- C Mayo Acosta, IF Omar Bencomo, P Jairo De La Rosa*, IF Hector Guevara*, P Braulio Lara, P Victor Mateo, P Wilking Rodriguez, P Enny Romero, P Eliazer Suero
Hudson Valley -- P Wilmer Almonte**, P Roque Colon, P Roberto Gomez, OF Cesar Guillen, C Gerardo Olivares, SS Juniel Querecuto, 3B Leonardo Reginatto, C Alejandro Segovia
Princeton -- OF Joel Caminero, IF Felix Gonzalez, P Reinaldo Lopez, P Jose Molina, P Eduar Quinonez, P Felipe Rivero, C Junior Rodriguez, P Pedro Silvestre
GCL -- OF Ismel Antunez, OF Edward Dorville, P Hugo Duarte, P Eli Echarry, IF Darryl George, P Joan Guerrero, P Stepan Havlicek, IF Julian Morillo, C Omar Narvaez, IF Cesar Perez, OF Jonathan Quinonez, IF Hector Rodriguez, OF Ariel Soriano, P Bruidlin Suero
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Moore takes big league call from Rays
Matt Moore, the left-handed pitcher who started a star-filled season with the Biscuits, will end it in the major leagues.The Tampa Bay Rays are adding him to their 40-man roster, and Moore will join the team Monday in Baltimore, wear No. 55 and work out of the bullpen.
The 22-year-old, who led the entire minor leagues in strikeouts in each of the last two seasons, was a combined 12-3 with a 1.92 ERA between the Biscuits and Triple-A Durham this season. He ranked second in the entire minors with 210 strikeouts -- seven off the leader -- and was also second in ERA.
Moore was the Southern League pitcher of the year, despite being promoted to Durham on July 18, and threw the first no-hitter in Biscuits history at Mobile on June 16. Tampa Bay will have to make another move to add Moore to the 40-man roster.
The move is a sign that Tampa Bay feels it is in good position for a playoff berth. After finishing a sweep of Boston today, the Rays are 3 1/2 games behind the Red Sox for the AL wild card.
Normally, the Rays don't add top prospects this late because they accrue service time that affects their arbitration eligibility. They did it in 2008 with David Price and reached the World Series.
Rookies leave much to be desired on dress-up day
Well, it was the annual rookie dress-up day at Tropicana Field today. Click here to see the picture. I have one question and one comment.
Question: Is Jeremy Hellickson making it easier for everyone to admire his new, umm, attributes? He's fifth from the left, between the two lime-green outfits.
Comment: I sure wish I could see more of Desmond Jennings. He's behind the two Potato Heads.
Question: Is Jeremy Hellickson making it easier for everyone to admire his new, umm, attributes? He's fifth from the left, between the two lime-green outfits.
Comment: I sure wish I could see more of Desmond Jennings. He's behind the two Potato Heads.
Jai Miller back in major leagues with A's
Selma High grad Jai Miller has been promoted to the major leagues by the Oakland A's, though Miller's Triple-A Sacramento team is still in the Pacific Coast League playoffs. Sacramento is play a decisive Game 5 of its semifinal series this afternoon.
Miller hit .276 with 32 home runs for Sacramento in the regular season. The 26-year-old played 20 games for the Kansas City Royals last year and one for the Florida Marlins in 2008.
UPDATE: Miller was 0-for-4 in his Oakland debut Sunday, an 8-1 loss at Texas.
Miller hit .276 with 32 home runs for Sacramento in the regular season. The 26-year-old played 20 games for the Kansas City Royals last year and one for the Florida Marlins in 2008.
UPDATE: Miller was 0-for-4 in his Oakland debut Sunday, an 8-1 loss at Texas.
Ekstrom out to create 40-man room for Canzler
To make 40-man roster space for Russ Canzler, the Rays designated reliever Mike Ekstrom for assignment.
It's the second time they've DFA'd Ekstrom this year. He moved off the 40-man at the end of spring training after Evan Longoria was hurt and Tampa Bay needed space for infielder Ray Olmedo.
Ekstrom moved back on the 40-man in late July when the Rays made seemingly daily moves between the majors and Triple-A Durham. He made one appearance, July 31 at Seattle.
It's the second time they've DFA'd Ekstrom this year. He moved off the 40-man at the end of spring training after Evan Longoria was hurt and Tampa Bay needed space for infielder Ray Olmedo.
Ekstrom moved back on the 40-man in late July when the Rays made seemingly daily moves between the majors and Triple-A Durham. He made one appearance, July 31 at Seattle.
Wetumpka, Tallassee beat major leaguer this spring
The Wetumpka and Tallassee baseball teams picked up victories this spring with a major leaguer in the other dugout.
Mariners reliever Steve Delabar was a coach for the John Hardin High (Ky.) Bulldogs before trying out for Seattle. The Seattle Times details Delabar's trek from a high school coach this spring to the major leagues this month.
The story mentions a 7 1/2-hour bus ride "to a tournament in Alabama" on which Delabar was working out tryout details with the Mariners. That tournament was in Wetumpka, where John Hardin lost 7-4 to Wetumpka on April 2 and 15-14 to Tallassee on April 4.
Delabar, 28, started the season at high-Class A before promotions to Double-A Jackson, Triple-A Tacoma and, just last week, to the majors. (He pitched at Riverwalk on June 25, recording two outs with a hit and two walks.)
Mariners reliever Steve Delabar was a coach for the John Hardin High (Ky.) Bulldogs before trying out for Seattle. The Seattle Times details Delabar's trek from a high school coach this spring to the major leagues this month.
The story mentions a 7 1/2-hour bus ride "to a tournament in Alabama" on which Delabar was working out tryout details with the Mariners. That tournament was in Wetumpka, where John Hardin lost 7-4 to Wetumpka on April 2 and 15-14 to Tallassee on April 4.
Delabar, 28, started the season at high-Class A before promotions to Double-A Jackson, Triple-A Tacoma and, just last week, to the majors. (He pitched at Riverwalk on June 25, recording two outs with a hit and two walks.)
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Canzler rewarded for IL MVP season
International League MVP Russ Canzler, after Durham's season ended Friday, is being promoted to the Rays.
Tampa Bay is also bringing up reliever Dane De La Rosa for his second stint with the team. Canzler has to be added to the 40-man roster. Corresponding move coming Sunday.
Tampa Bay is also bringing up reliever Dane De La Rosa for his second stint with the team. Canzler has to be added to the 40-man roster. Corresponding move coming Sunday.
Friday, September 09, 2011
Hot Rods swept by Fort Wayne
Mark Hardy tossed eight shutout innings for Fort Wayne in a 5-1 win over Bowling Green that ended the Hot Rods' season.
Hardy gave up four singles, walked none and struck out seven to finish a two-game sweep by the Tin Caps in the Midwest League series.
Hardy gave up four singles, walked none and struck out seven to finish a two-game sweep by the Tin Caps in the Midwest League series.
Clippers finish sweep of Durham
Nick Johnson doubled twice and had two RBIs as the Columbus Clippers beat Durham 5-2 on Friday and ended the Bulls' season.
Columbus finished a three-game sweep of the International League playoff series.
Stephen Vogt had three hits and Robinson Chirinos doubled twice for Durham.
Columbus finished a three-game sweep of the International League playoff series.
Stephen Vogt had three hits and Robinson Chirinos doubled twice for Durham.
Blue Jays, Rangers have most in minor league playoffs
The Blue Jays and Rangers tied for having the most minor league affiliates reach the postseason. Each had five teams make the playoffs in the 16 U.S.-based leagues.
The Rangers had their top four teams go, while the Blue Jays had their Double-A team and both full-season Class A's. The Rays had two: Triple-A Durham and low-Class A Bowling Green.
5: Blue Jays, Rangers
4: A's, Dodgers, Giants, Padres
3: Angels, Cubs, Diamondbacks, Mets, Nationals, Royals
2: Cardinals, Indians, Marlins, Orioles, Phillies, Pirates, Rays, Reds, Rockies, White Sox, Yankees
1: Braves, Mariners, Red Sox, Twins
0: Astros, Brewers, Tigers
The Rangers had their top four teams go, while the Blue Jays had their Double-A team and both full-season Class A's. The Rays had two: Triple-A Durham and low-Class A Bowling Green.
5: Blue Jays, Rangers
4: A's, Dodgers, Giants, Padres
3: Angels, Cubs, Diamondbacks, Mets, Nationals, Royals
2: Cardinals, Indians, Marlins, Orioles, Phillies, Pirates, Rays, Reds, Rockies, White Sox, Yankees
1: Braves, Mariners, Red Sox, Twins
0: Astros, Brewers, Tigers
Thursday, September 08, 2011
Hot Rods fall in playoff opener
Matt Jackson surrendered an unearned run over six innings to help the Fort Wayne Tincaps beat the Bowling Green Hot Rods 6-3 on Thursday.
Fort Wayne took a 1-0 lead in the best-of-3 Midwest League playoff series with Game 2 Friday at Bowling Green.
Phil Wunderlich was 3-for-4 with a double, two RBIs and a run scored for the Hot Rods. Starter George Jensen gave up three runs in five innings, including a home run to Mike Gallic in the fourth.
Fort Wayne took a 1-0 lead in the best-of-3 Midwest League playoff series with Game 2 Friday at Bowling Green.
Phil Wunderlich was 3-for-4 with a double, two RBIs and a run scored for the Hot Rods. Starter George Jensen gave up three runs in five innings, including a home run to Mike Gallic in the fourth.
Talbot, Clippers take 2-0 lead on Bulls
Mitch Talbot, a postseason star for the Biscuits in 2006, threw seven solid innings for the Columbus Clippers in an 8-3 playoff win over the Durham Bulls on Thursday.
Talbot gave up two runs on seven hits as the Clippers took a 2-0 lead in the best-of-5 International League series. Game 3 is Friday at Columbus.
Durham's Chris Archer totaled 11 strikeouts in 5 2/3 innings. He allowed five runs on seven hits and three walks.
Dan Johnson had two RBIs and Matt Carson scored twice for the Bulls. Carson singled, doubled, walked and recorded an outfield assist.
Talbot gave up two runs on seven hits as the Clippers took a 2-0 lead in the best-of-5 International League series. Game 3 is Friday at Columbus.
Durham's Chris Archer totaled 11 strikeouts in 5 2/3 innings. He allowed five runs on seven hits and three walks.
Dan Johnson had two RBIs and Matt Carson scored twice for the Bulls. Carson singled, doubled, walked and recorded an outfield assist.
Wednesday, September 07, 2011
Bulls lose playoff opener
Zach McAllister worked six innings to lead the Columbus Clippers in a 3-0 over the Durham Bulls in Wednesday's opener of their International League playoff series.
Matt Moore gave up three runs in 6 2/3 innings for Durham, which managed just five hits. Ray Olmedo had two singles, while Stephen Vogt doubled and walked.
Olmedo's bunt single in the fifth gave Durham its final baserunner.
Columbus reliever Chen Lee worked a perfect seventh and eighth. Zach Putnam tossed a perfect ninth.
Game 2 of the best-of-5 series is Thursday at Durham.
Matt Moore gave up three runs in 6 2/3 innings for Durham, which managed just five hits. Ray Olmedo had two singles, while Stephen Vogt doubled and walked.
Olmedo's bunt single in the fifth gave Durham its final baserunner.
Columbus reliever Chen Lee worked a perfect seventh and eighth. Zach Putnam tossed a perfect ninth.
Game 2 of the best-of-5 series is Thursday at Durham.
Hot Rods' opener postponed; playoff schedule changed
Weather interrupted Bowling Green's playoff opener tonight at Fort Wayne. The postponement forces a change in the schedule for the best-of-3 Midwest League playoff series. The teams will play the opener Thursday at Fort Wayne. Game 2 will be at 7:05 p.m. Friday at Bowling Green with Game 3, if necessary, on Saturday at Bowling Green.
Trout outruns Moore for Baseball America award
Outfielder Mike Trout won Baseball America's minor league player of the year award, nudging out former Biscuits pitcher Matt Moore.
Trout spent most of the season with Double-A Arkansas in the Los Angeles Angels' organization. He hit .326 and scored 82 runs in 91 games. He had 42 extra-base hits and 38 RBIs.
Moore was among those highly considered for the award, which went to Jeremy Hellickson last year.
By the way, Moore is the first pitcher on record (since 1988) to record 200 strikeouts in consecutive seasons, according to MLB Advanced Media. He totaled 210 (131 with Montgomery and 79 with Durham).
Moore did fail at one thing this year. After winning the minor league strikeout title the last two years, he came in at a mere-mortal second this season. Class A Modesto's Edwar Cabrera had 217.
Trout spent most of the season with Double-A Arkansas in the Los Angeles Angels' organization. He hit .326 and scored 82 runs in 91 games. He had 42 extra-base hits and 38 RBIs.
Moore was among those highly considered for the award, which went to Jeremy Hellickson last year.
By the way, Moore is the first pitcher on record (since 1988) to record 200 strikeouts in consecutive seasons, according to MLB Advanced Media. He totaled 210 (131 with Montgomery and 79 with Durham).
Moore did fail at one thing this year. After winning the minor league strikeout title the last two years, he came in at a mere-mortal second this season. Class A Modesto's Edwar Cabrera had 217.
Durham Bull-ish on final month's BCS/RPI list
Durham sported the top position player and pitcher in the August/September BCS/RPI standings.Infielder/outfielder Russ Canzler (top left) and little-known left-hander Matt Moore (top right) scored 17 points each, barely nosing out Charlotte second baseman Tyler Bortnick (bottom left) and Durham right-hander Matt Torra (bottom right). They each had 16 points in the Biscuit Crumbs Standings/Rays Performance Indicator standings.
Canzler, this year's International League MVP, had seven finishes in the daily top five, including one first place. His fifth-place spot for Sunday's play -- the final day of the season for the daily rankings -- pulled him into the tie. Moore was in the daily list five times with two first places.17 points -- Russ Canzler, Matt Moore
16 -- Tyler Bortnick, Matt Torra
15 -- Cody Rogers, Enny Romero, Jake Thompson
14 -- Chris Rearick
13 -- Tim Beckham, Dan Johnson, Shawn O'Malley
12 -- Brandon Guyer, Craige Lyerly
PREVIOUS WINNERS
April: 1. Derek Dietrich 15 points, 2. Greg Sexton 14, 3. Hak-Ju Lee 13.
May: 1. Robby Price 25, 2. Matt Moore 20, 3. Alex Cobb 17.
June: 1. Tyler Bortnick 24, 2. Cody Rogers 21, 3. Desmond Jennings 16.
July: 1. Drew Vettleson 21, 2. Matt Moore 16, 3. Jeff Malm 14.
Biscuits limp in at fourth in league attendance
The Biscuits finished a franchise-worst fourth in the Southern League attendance race this year. Their 257,268 averaged out to 3,783, which was behind Jacksonville (4,419), Tennessee (3,960) and Birmingham (3,847).
After the Biscuits, there was lame duck Carolina (3,699), Chattanooga (3,409), Mobile (3,057), Mississippi (2,738), Jackson (1,641) and Huntsville (1,582).
By the way, Minor League Baseball's number doesn't match the Biscuits' announced attendance, which is what is listed above. The differences ...
April 10: 2,236 announced that night; 2,326 recorded by MiLB.
June 4: 5,515 announced; 5,561 recorded.
June 7: 2,119 announced; 1,119 recorded. (1,119 would be the smallest crowd in team history by more than 300.)
After the Biscuits, there was lame duck Carolina (3,699), Chattanooga (3,409), Mobile (3,057), Mississippi (2,738), Jackson (1,641) and Huntsville (1,582).
By the way, Minor League Baseball's number doesn't match the Biscuits' announced attendance, which is what is listed above. The differences ...
April 10: 2,236 announced that night; 2,326 recorded by MiLB.
June 4: 5,515 announced; 5,561 recorded.
June 7: 2,119 announced; 1,119 recorded. (1,119 would be the smallest crowd in team history by more than 300.)
Tuesday, September 06, 2011
Wetumpka's Golden shines in Northwest
Wetumpka's Reggie Golden of the Boise Hawks was the Northwest League's top hitter for the season's final week.
Golden was 9-for-23 with four home runs and 11 RBIs in his last six games. He finished with a .242 average, seven homers and 39 RBIs in 64 games.
His surge helped Boise reach the playoffs. The Hawks lost the best-of-3 series opener Monday and play Tri-Cities tonight.
Golden was 9-for-23 with four home runs and 11 RBIs in his last six games. He finished with a .242 average, seven homers and 39 RBIs in 64 games.
His surge helped Boise reach the playoffs. The Hawks lost the best-of-3 series opener Monday and play Tri-Cities tonight.
Chattanooga slugger best in league's week
Chattanooga's Brian Cavazos-Galvez, after a four-game feast on the Biscuits, won the Southern League's hitter of the week award today. Jackson's James Gillheeny was the pitching winner.
Cavazos-Galvez had 12 RBIs in his last five games of the season, with nine -- and three home runs -- vs. Montgomery. Gilheeney tossed seven no-hit innings Saturday in a win at Jacksonville.
Cavazos-Galvez had 12 RBIs in his last five games of the season, with nine -- and three home runs -- vs. Montgomery. Gilheeney tossed seven no-hit innings Saturday in a win at Jacksonville.
Lookout league's top hitter; Star best in ERA
Chattanooga's Scott Van Slyke was the Southern League batting champion and Huntsville right-hander Wily Peralta the ERA titlist this year.
Van Slyke rolled at a .348 clip this year with 20 home runs and 92 RBIs. League MVP Paul Goldschmidt, promoted from Mobile to the majors Aug. 1, finished fifth in average (.306), tied for first in homers (30) and second in RBIs (94).
Peralta was 9-7 with a 3.46 ERA, which is the highest for a Southern League leader in 14 years. In 1997, Birmingham's Russ Herbert won with a 3.63, the highest winning number in recorded SL history. Peralta is Huntsville's first ERA champ. Biscuits left-hander Matt Moore had a 2.20 ERA, but he didn't have enough innings to qualify for the league crown.
Also of note, Chattanooga's Alfredo Silverio hit 18 triples, which was just one shy of the league record set in 1977 by Alan Trammell of the Montgomery Rebels.
Biscuits right-hander Shane Dyer tied for the league lead with 28 starts and led with 191 hits allowed. Chris Archer totaled a league-high 18 wild pitches.
Van Slyke rolled at a .348 clip this year with 20 home runs and 92 RBIs. League MVP Paul Goldschmidt, promoted from Mobile to the majors Aug. 1, finished fifth in average (.306), tied for first in homers (30) and second in RBIs (94).
Peralta was 9-7 with a 3.46 ERA, which is the highest for a Southern League leader in 14 years. In 1997, Birmingham's Russ Herbert won with a 3.63, the highest winning number in recorded SL history. Peralta is Huntsville's first ERA champ. Biscuits left-hander Matt Moore had a 2.20 ERA, but he didn't have enough innings to qualify for the league crown.
Also of note, Chattanooga's Alfredo Silverio hit 18 triples, which was just one shy of the league record set in 1977 by Alan Trammell of the Montgomery Rebels.
Biscuits right-hander Shane Dyer tied for the league lead with 28 starts and led with 191 hits allowed. Chris Archer totaled a league-high 18 wild pitches.
Southern League semifinal playoff schedule
Of the four teams in the Southern League playoffs, the Chattanooga Lookouts have the longest championship drought. Chattanooga last won a title in 1988.
Birmingham last won in 2002. Mobile and Tennessee shared the championship in 2004 when Hurricane Ivan nixed the final series. Mobile's last outright title was 1998 and Tennessee's in 1978 as the Knoxville Sox.
The semifinal playoff series schedule ...
South Division
Mobile vs. Birmingham
Thursday: at Birmingham, 7:05 p.m.
Friday: at Birmingham, 7:05 p.m.
Saturday: at Mobile, 7:05 p.m.
Sunday: at Mobile, 2:05 p.m., if necessary
Monday: at Mobile, 7:05 p.m., if necessary
North Division
Tennessee vs. Chattanooga
Thursday: at Tennessee, 6:15 p.m. CDT
Friday: at Tennessee, 6:15 p.m.
Saturday: at Chattanooga, 6:15 p.m.
Sunday: at Chattanooga, TBA, if necessary
Monday: at Chattanooga, TBA, if necessary
Birmingham last won in 2002. Mobile and Tennessee shared the championship in 2004 when Hurricane Ivan nixed the final series. Mobile's last outright title was 1998 and Tennessee's in 1978 as the Knoxville Sox.
The semifinal playoff series schedule ...
South Division
Mobile vs. Birmingham
Thursday: at Birmingham, 7:05 p.m.
Friday: at Birmingham, 7:05 p.m.
Saturday: at Mobile, 7:05 p.m.
Sunday: at Mobile, 2:05 p.m., if necessary
Monday: at Mobile, 7:05 p.m., if necessary
North Division
Tennessee vs. Chattanooga
Thursday: at Tennessee, 6:15 p.m. CDT
Friday: at Tennessee, 6:15 p.m.
Saturday: at Chattanooga, 6:15 p.m.
Sunday: at Chattanooga, TBA, if necessary
Monday: at Chattanooga, TBA, if necessary
Monday, September 05, 2011
Monday's Rays roundup
Norfolk 8, Bulls 5
Stephen Vogt was 4-for-5 with a solo home run, double, two singles and two runs scored. Dan Johnson singled twice and walked. Brian Baker gave up six runs in the first inning and eight over five.
Stone Crabs
Season ended Sunday. Finished 64-75 overall.
Lake County 4, Hot Rods 1
Robby Price singled, walked twice and scored. Wilking Rodriguez gave up an earned run in four innings. Steve Hiscock faced the minimum for two innings and Jimmy Patterson one. (Hiscock allowed a hit.) Chris Rearick, in an inning newsworthy because it was so rare this season, gave up two runs on three hits and a walk.
Renegades
Season ended Sunday. Finished 37-39 overall.
Stephen Vogt was 4-for-5 with a solo home run, double, two singles and two runs scored. Dan Johnson singled twice and walked. Brian Baker gave up six runs in the first inning and eight over five.
Stone Crabs
Season ended Sunday. Finished 64-75 overall.
Lake County 4, Hot Rods 1
Robby Price singled, walked twice and scored. Wilking Rodriguez gave up an earned run in four innings. Steve Hiscock faced the minimum for two innings and Jimmy Patterson one. (Hiscock allowed a hit.) Chris Rearick, in an inning newsworthy because it was so rare this season, gave up two runs on three hits and a walk.
Renegades
Season ended Sunday. Finished 37-39 overall.
3 Biscuits to join Bulls for playoffs
Two pitchers and one position player received postseason promotions from the Biscuits and will be with the Durham Bulls for the Triple-A International League playoffs.
Starter Jim Paduch, reliever Matt Bush and infielder Cole Figueroa are headed to the Bulls, though it's not known which of them (if any) will be on Durham's active roster.
Paduch made one start for Durham this season and threw seven innings for the win in an 18-3 victory at Rochester on July 21. Bush and Figueroa were with the Biscuits all year.
Starter Jim Paduch, reliever Matt Bush and infielder Cole Figueroa are headed to the Bulls, though it's not known which of them (if any) will be on Durham's active roster.
Paduch made one start for Durham this season and threw seven innings for the win in an 18-3 victory at Rochester on July 21. Bush and Figueroa were with the Biscuits all year.
Playoffs start Wednesday for Bulls, Hot Rods
The Biscuits are heading for home after today's rainout at Chattanooga, but two of their brethren in the Tampa Bay organization have playoffs awaiting them.
Durham vs. Columbus (best-of-5)
Wednesday: at Durham, 6:05 p.m. CDT
Thursday: at Durham, 6:05 p.m. CDT
Friday: at Columbus, 6:05 p.m. CDT
Saturday: at Columbus, 6:05 p.m. CDT, if necessary
Sunday: at Columbus, 4:05 p.m. CDT, if necessary
Bowling Green vs. Fort Wayne* (best-of-3)
Wednesday: at Fort Wayne, 6:05 p.m. CDT
Thursday: at Bowling Green, 6:35 p.m. CDT
Friday: at Bowling Green, 7:05 p.m. CDT, if necessary
*--Fort Wayne beat West Michigan 7-2 today to clinch a playoff berth. Fort Wayne and Lansing tied in the second half, but Lansing was already in the playoffs due to its first-half success.Fort Wayne and West Michigan play today and the winner gets in.
Durham vs. Columbus (best-of-5)
Wednesday: at Durham, 6:05 p.m. CDT
Thursday: at Durham, 6:05 p.m. CDT
Friday: at Columbus, 6:05 p.m. CDT
Saturday: at Columbus, 6:05 p.m. CDT, if necessary
Sunday: at Columbus, 4:05 p.m. CDT, if necessary
Bowling Green vs. Fort Wayne* (best-of-3)
Wednesday: at Fort Wayne, 6:05 p.m. CDT
Thursday: at Bowling Green, 6:35 p.m. CDT
Friday: at Bowling Green, 7:05 p.m. CDT, if necessary
*--Fort Wayne beat West Michigan 7-2 today to clinch a playoff berth. Fort Wayne and Lansing tied in the second half, but Lansing was already in the playoffs due to its first-half success.
Rain cancels season finale
Rainy weather claimed Montgomery's season finale today at Chattanooga and the Biscuits finish with a 65-74 overall record.
Ranking the Rays ... Thompson, Segovia, Torra
For Sunday ...
1. Jake Thompson, CHA: 5 innings, 1 run, 4 hits, 2 walks, 5 K's
2. Alejandro Segovia, HV: 2 1b's, 2 walks, run
3. Matt Torra, DUR: 7 innings, 2 runs, 4 hits, 0 walks, 6 K's
4. Enny Romero, BWG: 5 shutout innings, 2 hits, 4 walks, 5 K's
5. Russ Canzler, DUR: 2-run 3b, 2 1b's
1. Jake Thompson, CHA: 5 innings, 1 run, 4 hits, 2 walks, 5 K's
2. Alejandro Segovia, HV: 2 1b's, 2 walks, run
3. Matt Torra, DUR: 7 innings, 2 runs, 4 hits, 0 walks, 6 K's
4. Enny Romero, BWG: 5 shutout innings, 2 hits, 4 walks, 5 K's
5. Russ Canzler, DUR: 2-run 3b, 2 1b's
Sunday, September 04, 2011
Sunday: Lookouts 10, Biscuits 5
Brian Cavazos-Galvez homered twice and had five RBIs in the Chattanooga Lookouts 10-5 win over the Biscuits on Sunday. He hit a three-run homer in the sixth and a two-run blast in the seventh.
Henry Wrigley had two RBIs and Cole Figueroa scored twice for Montgomery, which has lost six straight. The Biscuits can tie a franchise record (July 19-27, 2009) with a loss in Monday's season finale.
Henry Wrigley had two RBIs and Cole Figueroa scored twice for Montgomery, which has lost six straight. The Biscuits can tie a franchise record (July 19-27, 2009) with a loss in Monday's season finale.
Sunday's Rays roundup
Bulls 3, Norfolk 2
Russ Canzler was 3-for-4 with a go-ahead two-out, two-run triple in the seventh inning. Matt Torra tossed seven innings of four-hit, two-run ball. Dane De La Rosa finished with two shutout innings.
Bradenton 4, Stone Crabs 3 (10)
Tyler Bortnick hit a solo home run and an RBI single, plus an error. Omar Luna was 3-for-5 with a run scored and a steal. Jake Thompson worked five innings with four hits allowed and one run. Albert Suarez, on in relief, went four innings and allowed two runs, including a tying one in the ninth. Matt Stabelfeld gave up an unearned run in the 10th.
Lake County 3, Hot Rods 2 (10)
Robby Price singled twice, walked and scored. Derek Dietrich hit a two-run double in the fifth. Enny Romero threw five shutout innings, with two hits and four walks. Austin Hubbard gave up a tying run in the ninth and a game-ending run in the 10th.
Renegades 3, Aberdeen 2
Alejandro Segovia singled twice, walked twice and scored. Brian Bryles singled, tripled, walked, stole and scored. Leonardo Reginatto singled home Matt Rice in the eighth with the go-ahead run.
Ranking the Rays ... Sheridan, Partridge, Scelfo
For Saturday ...
1. Mike Sheridan, CHA: 1b, 2b, walk, run, 4 RBIs
2. Jacob Partridge, HV: 6 shutout innings, 4 hits, 2 walks, 5 K's
3. Anthony Scelfo, CHA: 1b, 2b, walk, steal, run
4. Cole Figueroa, MGM: 1b, 2b, 3b, run
5. Alex Torres, DUR: 5 2/3 innings, 1 run, 4 hits, 2 walks, 7 K's
1. Mike Sheridan, CHA: 1b, 2b, walk, run, 4 RBIs
2. Jacob Partridge, HV: 6 shutout innings, 4 hits, 2 walks, 5 K's
3. Anthony Scelfo, CHA: 1b, 2b, walk, steal, run
4. Cole Figueroa, MGM: 1b, 2b, 3b, run
5. Alex Torres, DUR: 5 2/3 innings, 1 run, 4 hits, 2 walks, 7 K's
Saturday's Rays roundup
Norfolk 7, Bulls 6 (10)
Matt Carson hit a three-run home run, singled and scored twice. Alex Torres gave up one run over 5 2/3 innings. The Bulls led 6-1 going to the ninth. Jay Buente recorded an out and allowed four runs. Rob Delaney went 1 1/3 and gave up two.
Bradenton 10, Stone Crabs 9
Mike Sheridan singled, doubled, walked, scored and had four RBIs. Anthony Scelfo singled, doubled, walked, stole and scored. Tyler Bortnick singled twice and stole. Joe Cruz went just two innings, allowing six runs.
Lake County 4, Hot Rods 3
Robby Price singled and walked twice. Derek Dietrich hit his 22nd home run. Chris Rearick gave up two hits in a shutout inning.
Aberdeen 1, Renegades 0
Jacob Partridge tossed six shutout innings with four hits, two walks and five strikeouts. Cesar Guillen singled and walked.
Matt Carson hit a three-run home run, singled and scored twice. Alex Torres gave up one run over 5 2/3 innings. The Bulls led 6-1 going to the ninth. Jay Buente recorded an out and allowed four runs. Rob Delaney went 1 1/3 and gave up two.
Bradenton 10, Stone Crabs 9
Mike Sheridan singled, doubled, walked, scored and had four RBIs. Anthony Scelfo singled, doubled, walked, stole and scored. Tyler Bortnick singled twice and stole. Joe Cruz went just two innings, allowing six runs.
Lake County 4, Hot Rods 3
Robby Price singled and walked twice. Derek Dietrich hit his 22nd home run. Chris Rearick gave up two hits in a shutout inning.
Aberdeen 1, Renegades 0
Jacob Partridge tossed six shutout innings with four hits, two walks and five strikeouts. Cesar Guillen singled and walked.
Saturday, September 03, 2011
Saturday: Lookouts 3, Biscuits 2
Chris Withrow gave up one hit and one run over six innings in the Chattanooga Lookouts' 3-2 win over the Biscuits on Saturday. He walked three and struck out seven.
Montgomery totaled four hits, including two in the ninth. The Biscuits had the potential tying run on base with one out.
Montgomery totaled four hits, including two in the ninth. The Biscuits had the potential tying run on base with one out.
Ranking the Rays ... Carpenter, Wunderlich, Bortnick
For Friday ...
1. Ryan Carpenter, HV: 4 shutout innings, 1 hit, walk, 4 K's
2. Phil Wunderlich, BWG: solo HR, 2 2b's, 1b, 2 RBIs
3. Tyler Bortnick, CHA: 3b, 2b, 1b, steal, 4 RBIs in DH
4. Matt Moore, DUR: 6 innings, 1 run, 4 hits, 3 walks, 10 K's
5. Charlie Cononie, HV: 3 shutout innings, 1 hit, 2 walks, HBP, 5 K's
1. Ryan Carpenter, HV: 4 shutout innings, 1 hit, walk, 4 K's
2. Phil Wunderlich, BWG: solo HR, 2 2b's, 1b, 2 RBIs
3. Tyler Bortnick, CHA: 3b, 2b, 1b, steal, 4 RBIs in DH
4. Matt Moore, DUR: 6 innings, 1 run, 4 hits, 3 walks, 10 K's
5. Charlie Cononie, HV: 3 shutout innings, 1 hit, 2 walks, HBP, 5 K's
Friday, September 02, 2011
Friday: Lookouts 8, Biscuits 2
Travis Denker was 4-for-4 with an RBI and two runs scored in the Chattanooga Lookouts' 8-2 win over the Biscuits on Friday. Brian Cavazos-Galvez hit a three-run homer in the second inning to put Chattanooga ahead. Greg Sexton walked twice and scored for Montgomery, which totaled five singles.
Friday's Rays roundup
Bulls 4, Norfolk 1
Matt Moore gave up one run over six innings and struck out 10 as Durham clinched a fifth straight division championship. Moore (4-0) allowed four hits and walked three. Dan Johnson hit a two-run home run and singled. Matt Carson walked twice and singled.
Bradenton 5, Stone Crabs 4 (completion of Thursday suspension)
Riccio Torrez hit a solo homer and had two RBIs. Reid Fronk singled and walked twice. Kirby Yates struck out four over two shutout innings.
Bradenton 7, Stone Crabs 6 (Game 2)
Ty Morrison doubled, walked twice and scored thrice. Tyler Bortnick doubled, tripled, stole and had three RBIs. Mike Sheridan also knocked in three runs.
Dayton 11, Hot Rods 5
Phil Wunderlich was 3-for-4 with two doubles, a solo home run and two RBIs. Robby Price singled, hit a two-run homer and scored twice. Robi Estrada singled, doubled and scored twice.
Renegades 3, Aberdeen 0 (Game 1)
Ryan Carpenter and Charlie Cononie combined on a seven-inning two-hitter. Carpenter gave up one hit in four innings with a walk and four strikeouts. Cononie (1-1) walked two, plunked one and whiffed five. Juniel Querecuto and Matt Rice each singled and walked.
Renegades 5, Aberdeen 4 (Game 2)
Kyle Holloway doubled, RBI'd and scored. Stayton Thomas (3-0) threw 2 2/3 shutout innings, allowing four hits with no walks and three strikeouts. Starter Robert Dickmann went 4 1/3 innings, giving up four runs, though just one earned.
Ranking the Rays ... Archer, Motter, Bencomo
For Thursday ...
1. Chris Archer, DUR: 7 shutout innings, 8 hits, 1 walk, 6 K's
2. Taylor Motter, BWG: 2-run HR, 1b, walk, 3 RBIs in debut
3. Omar Bencomo, BWG: 3 shutout innings, 1 hit, no walks, 3 K's
4. Paul Phillips, MGM: 2 1/3 hitless innings, no walks, 4 K's, HBP
5. Keith Castillo, BWG: 2-run HR, 1b, 2 runs
1. Chris Archer, DUR: 7 shutout innings, 8 hits, 1 walk, 6 K's
2. Taylor Motter, BWG: 2-run HR, 1b, walk, 3 RBIs in debut
3. Omar Bencomo, BWG: 3 shutout innings, 1 hit, no walks, 3 K's
4. Paul Phillips, MGM: 2 1/3 hitless innings, no walks, 4 K's, HBP
5. Keith Castillo, BWG: 2-run HR, 1b, 2 runs
Thursday's Rays roundup
Charlotte 2, Bulls 0
Chris Archer threw seven shutout innings with eight hits allowed, one walk and six strikeouts. Tim Beckham singled and walked. The Bulls had four hits, two walks and were 0-for-1 with runners in scoring position.
Stone Crabs at Bradenton
Suspended in second inning by rain. Continues Friday with a seven-inning game to follow.
Hot Rods 7, Dayton 5
Taylor Motter was 2-for-3 with a two-run home run, walk and three RBIs in his Bowling Green debut. Keith Castillo homered, singled and scored twice. Starter George Jensen left after only two shutout innings due to being hit on the right arm by a line drive. Omar Bencomo followed with three scoreless innings. In the man-bites-dog category, Chris Rearick gave up two hits and a run.
Connecticut 5, Renegades 1
Brian Bryles doubled twice and walked. Juniel Querecuto had an RBI, but Hudson Valley finished 0-for-13 with runners in scoring position.
Chris Archer threw seven shutout innings with eight hits allowed, one walk and six strikeouts. Tim Beckham singled and walked. The Bulls had four hits, two walks and were 0-for-1 with runners in scoring position.
Stone Crabs at Bradenton
Suspended in second inning by rain. Continues Friday with a seven-inning game to follow.
Hot Rods 7, Dayton 5
Taylor Motter was 2-for-3 with a two-run home run, walk and three RBIs in his Bowling Green debut. Keith Castillo homered, singled and scored twice. Starter George Jensen left after only two shutout innings due to being hit on the right arm by a line drive. Omar Bencomo followed with three scoreless innings. In the man-bites-dog category, Chris Rearick gave up two hits and a run.
Connecticut 5, Renegades 1
Brian Bryles doubled twice and walked. Juniel Querecuto had an RBI, but Hudson Valley finished 0-for-13 with runners in scoring position.
Thursday, September 01, 2011
Thursday: Lookouts 8, Biscuits 3
Alex Castellanos hit a solo home run and had four RBIs to lead the Chattanooga Lookouts in an 8-3 win over the Biscuits on Thursday. Henry Wrigley's 17th home run, a two-run shot in the fifth, was Montgomery's highlight.
Moore wins SL pitcher of the year
Left-hander Matt Moore, who was with the Biscuits until mid-July, won the Southern League's pitcher of the year award Thursday.
The 22-year-old was 8-3 with a 2.20 ERA and 131 strikeouts in 102 1/3 innings for Montgomery, including a no-hitter June 16. Moore, the top pitching prospect in the minor leagues, jumped to Durham after a July 17 start.
He's the second Montgomery pitcher to win the Southern League's pitcher of the year award. Right-hander Chris Mason won in 2007, a year he finished 15-4 with a 2.57 ERA.
Mobile first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, promoted to the major leagues Aug. 1, was the most valuable player. He hit .306 with 30 home runs and 94 RBIs for the BayBears. Goldschmidt was the California League MVP last year.
The league has not named its manager of the year.
***
I did ask Wednesday why Tyler Kuhn could be a two-timer on the SL's end-of-season team, but the league has not answered. Oddly, in 2006, Jacksonville right-handed starter Spike Lundberg was the league's pitcher of the year, but Montgomery's Andy Sonnanstine was named the league's top right-handed starter.
The 22-year-old was 8-3 with a 2.20 ERA and 131 strikeouts in 102 1/3 innings for Montgomery, including a no-hitter June 16. Moore, the top pitching prospect in the minor leagues, jumped to Durham after a July 17 start.
He's the second Montgomery pitcher to win the Southern League's pitcher of the year award. Right-hander Chris Mason won in 2007, a year he finished 15-4 with a 2.57 ERA.
Mobile first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, promoted to the major leagues Aug. 1, was the most valuable player. He hit .306 with 30 home runs and 94 RBIs for the BayBears. Goldschmidt was the California League MVP last year.
The league has not named its manager of the year.
***
I did ask Wednesday why Tyler Kuhn could be a two-timer on the SL's end-of-season team, but the league has not answered. Oddly, in 2006, Jacksonville right-handed starter Spike Lundberg was the league's pitcher of the year, but Montgomery's Andy Sonnanstine was named the league's top right-handed starter.
Matulia jumps back to Durham
With the Rays adding two outfielders from Durham, Biscuits outfielder John Matulia has been promoted back to the Bulls. It's the third time this season that Matulia has jumped to Durham.
Major league rosters can expand today and Tampa Bay is adding Brandon Guyer and Justin Ruggiano from Durham. Ruggiano was there on a rehab assignment.
Matulia jumps into an imminent-pennant situation. With five games left on the schedule, the Bulls have a three-game lead in the International League South Division. Durham plays at Charlotte tonight before a four-game series at Norfolk.
There could be another move Friday. The Rays say they're calling up pitcher Andy Sonnanstine.
Major league rosters can expand today and Tampa Bay is adding Brandon Guyer and Justin Ruggiano from Durham. Ruggiano was there on a rehab assignment.
Matulia jumps into an imminent-pennant situation. With five games left on the schedule, the Bulls have a three-game lead in the International League South Division. Durham plays at Charlotte tonight before a four-game series at Norfolk.
There could be another move Friday. The Rays say they're calling up pitcher Andy Sonnanstine.
Ranking the Rays ... Biell, Gomez, D. Johnson
For Wednesday ...
1. Dustin Biell, CHA: 3 1b's, 2 outfield assists (1 at home)
2. Roberto Gomez, HV: 5 shutout innings, 1 hit, 2 walks, K
3. Dan Johnson, DUR: solo HR, 2b, 2 walks, 2 runs
4. Jeff Malm, HV: 2 2b's, 3 RBIs
5. Robby Price, BWG: 2 2b's, 1b, 2 runs
1. Dustin Biell, CHA: 3 1b's, 2 outfield assists (1 at home)
2. Roberto Gomez, HV: 5 shutout innings, 1 hit, 2 walks, K
3. Dan Johnson, DUR: solo HR, 2b, 2 walks, 2 runs
4. Jeff Malm, HV: 2 2b's, 3 RBIs
5. Robby Price, BWG: 2 2b's, 1b, 2 runs
Wednesday's Rays roundup
Charlotte 10, Bulls 2
Dan Johnson homered, doubled, walked twice and scored twice. Russ Canzler walked twice.
Jupiter 3, Stone Crabs 1
Dustin Biell was 3-for-3 with an RBI and two outfield assists. Rehabbing Jose Lobaton doubled and walked. Merrill Kelly's six innings included two runs on five hits and three walks.
Dayton 6, Hot Rods 5
Robby Price doubled twice, singled and scored twice. Steve Tinoco singled twice and scored twice. Julio Cedeno doubled twice and erred.
Renegades 6, Connecticut 4
Jeff Malm doubled twice and knocked in three runs. Juniel Querecuto singled, walked, scored twice and erred. Matt Rice singled twice and had two RBIs. Roberto Gomez threw five shutout innings, allowing one hit.
P-Rays
Season ended Tuesday. Finished 30-38.
Dan Johnson homered, doubled, walked twice and scored twice. Russ Canzler walked twice.
Jupiter 3, Stone Crabs 1
Dustin Biell was 3-for-3 with an RBI and two outfield assists. Rehabbing Jose Lobaton doubled and walked. Merrill Kelly's six innings included two runs on five hits and three walks.
Dayton 6, Hot Rods 5
Robby Price doubled twice, singled and scored twice. Steve Tinoco singled twice and scored twice. Julio Cedeno doubled twice and erred.
Renegades 6, Connecticut 4
Jeff Malm doubled twice and knocked in three runs. Juniel Querecuto singled, walked, scored twice and erred. Matt Rice singled twice and had two RBIs. Roberto Gomez threw five shutout innings, allowing one hit.
P-Rays
Season ended Tuesday. Finished 30-38.
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