Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Cobb shoots for late-April return
Alex Cobb hopes to join the Biscuits in late April, though early May would be OK, too, after rehabbing his ailing oblique. Cobb, after a break to let the oblique (hopefully) heal, has started a throwing program. He said he started at 45 feet a few days ago and is up to 60 feet now. "It's slow, tedious progress," he said.
Hughes all smiles over new teeth, new team
Former Biscuits first baseman Rhyne Hughes, now with the Baltimore Orioles, has finally capped his lowlight moment from his time in Montgomery.
Hughes lost four teeth and had two broken in half when he was hit by a pitch late in the 2007 season. He wore a prosthetic the last two seasons before getting permanent implants this offseason.
"Everything is good to go," Hughes said. "It's something I don't have to worry about again."
Hughes, traded to the Orioles last season, tried to make an impression this spring with his baseball. He was just demoted from major-league camp to the minors this week.
"I tried to make a good impression with these guys," he said. "It's my first go-around with them."
Hughes lost four teeth and had two broken in half when he was hit by a pitch late in the 2007 season. He wore a prosthetic the last two seasons before getting permanent implants this offseason.
"Everything is good to go," Hughes said. "It's something I don't have to worry about again."
Hughes, traded to the Orioles last season, tried to make an impression this spring with his baseball. He was just demoted from major-league camp to the minors this week.
"I tried to make a good impression with these guys," he said. "It's my first go-around with them."
Alex Montoyo to make Durham debut
Alex Montoyo, the youngest son of Durham manager Charlie Montoyo, will be with the Bulls on Saturday when they face the Rays.
Alex, 2 1/2, suffers from a heart condition that also has limited his ability to travel. Charlie said they decided to make the trip after their cardiologist said Alex was healthy enough that he doesn't need another checkup until August.
Alex, brother Tyson and mom Sam fly to North Carolina on Friday and will stay until the Bulls leave for their April 8 Opening Day game at Norfolk. If all goes well, Charlie said, they'll return in June and stay through July.
Alex, 2 1/2, suffers from a heart condition that also has limited his ability to travel. Charlie said they decided to make the trip after their cardiologist said Alex was healthy enough that he doesn't need another checkup until August.
Alex, brother Tyson and mom Sam fly to North Carolina on Friday and will stay until the Bulls leave for their April 8 Opening Day game at Norfolk. If all goes well, Charlie said, they'll return in June and stay through July.
Wednesday game observations
It's a major-league day in the Triple-A game with stopper Rafael Soriano starting with Dan Wheeler and Randy Choate to follow.
Jake McGee answering the bell in the Double-A game with a three-up, three-down first inning.
Triple-A, 1st: Soriano struggled, Justin Ruggiano with a nice hit-and-run just before Dan Johnson hits his third homer in two days.
Double-A, 2nd: Cody Cipriano with an RBI groundout. Rays up 1-0.
Triple-A: Former Biscuits first baseman Rhyne Hughes is playing right field for the O's. Talked to him earlier and will post something after the game.
Double-A, 4th: Greg Sexton hits two-run single and Ryan Royster a two-run triple.
Dubs, 5th: Jake McGee gives up his first runs, two of them in fact, so it's 5-2.
Double-A: McGee done after five. Those were the first runs he's allowed in 15 spring innings, he said.
Trips, 6th: Fernando Perez sac fly ties it 3-3. In Double-A, it's 8-2 in the 7th.
Triple-A, 7th: Hughes hit a no-doubt, two-run shot off Heath Phillips to break a 3-3 tie.
Double-A final: Rays win 8-3. Baltimore had some pitching left, so they played a bottom of the ninth. Tampa Bay scored four runs, highlighted by a Reid Fronk two-run double, but they don't count on the score.
Triple-A final: 5-3 Orioles.
Jake McGee answering the bell in the Double-A game with a three-up, three-down first inning.
Triple-A, 1st: Soriano struggled, Justin Ruggiano with a nice hit-and-run just before Dan Johnson hits his third homer in two days.
Double-A, 2nd: Cody Cipriano with an RBI groundout. Rays up 1-0.
Triple-A: Former Biscuits first baseman Rhyne Hughes is playing right field for the O's. Talked to him earlier and will post something after the game.
Double-A, 4th: Greg Sexton hits two-run single and Ryan Royster a two-run triple.
Dubs, 5th: Jake McGee gives up his first runs, two of them in fact, so it's 5-2.
Double-A: McGee done after five. Those were the first runs he's allowed in 15 spring innings, he said.
Trips, 6th: Fernando Perez sac fly ties it 3-3. In Double-A, it's 8-2 in the 7th.
Triple-A, 7th: Hughes hit a no-doubt, two-run shot off Heath Phillips to break a 3-3 tie.
Double-A final: Rays win 8-3. Baltimore had some pitching left, so they played a bottom of the ninth. Tampa Bay scored four runs, highlighted by a Reid Fronk two-run double, but they don't count on the score.
Triple-A final: 5-3 Orioles.
Durham donnybrook: Niemann v. Hellickson
It's Jeff Niemann against Jeremy Hellickson on Saturday when the Rays play at Durham in an exhibition game.
Hellickson won't have a lengthy outing, though Niemann should go longer. Nor will the Rays spend much time in Durham. They're taking a charter flight Saturday morning and coming back to Tampa Bay that night.
Hellickson won't have a lengthy outing, though Niemann should go longer. Nor will the Rays spend much time in Durham. They're taking a charter flight Saturday morning and coming back to Tampa Bay that night.
Bailey shakes off year's break after surgery
Catcher Luke Bailey easily throws the ball back to the pitcher, will soon start throwing to bases and eagerly awaits being able to play without reservation in a real minor-league game.
Bailey was Tampa Bay's fourth-round draft pick last year, though he was fresh off Tommy John surgery and wouldn't be able to play until this season.
He said he'll catch three innings at a time through the end of the Rays' extended spring training program before joining a short-season team.
"Then, everything will be back to normal," Bailey said.
On Wednesday, Bailey caught while pitchers did their side work. He said he's feeling good. Bailey was considered one of the top high school catchers available in last year's draft before the surgery and had signed with Auburn. Though he's still waiting to make his pro debut, Bailey ranks 12th on Baseball America's list of Tampa Bay prospects.
"I'm almost back to full strength and I'm about to start throwing to bags," said Bailey, who was relegated to designated hitter in Tampa Bay's fall instructional league.
"It's tough when, right when you get here, you can't show what you can do," Bailey said. "I was excited to be here, but I had to accept facts. What happened happened. There's a reason for everything, you know."
Bailey was Tampa Bay's fourth-round draft pick last year, though he was fresh off Tommy John surgery and wouldn't be able to play until this season.
He said he'll catch three innings at a time through the end of the Rays' extended spring training program before joining a short-season team.
"Then, everything will be back to normal," Bailey said.
On Wednesday, Bailey caught while pitchers did their side work. He said he's feeling good. Bailey was considered one of the top high school catchers available in last year's draft before the surgery and had signed with Auburn. Though he's still waiting to make his pro debut, Bailey ranks 12th on Baseball America's list of Tampa Bay prospects.
"I'm almost back to full strength and I'm about to start throwing to bags," said Bailey, who was relegated to designated hitter in Tampa Bay's fall instructional league.
"It's tough when, right when you get here, you can't show what you can do," Bailey said. "I was excited to be here, but I had to accept facts. What happened happened. There's a reason for everything, you know."
Jaso back on field; Wednesday lineups
Durham-bound catcher John Jaso is in the Triple-A spring lineup today. He's been nursing a broken finger.
The Rays play the Baltimore Orioles in minor-league exhibitions today. The Triple- and Double-A games are in Port Charlotte with the Class A games in Sarasota. Planned substitutions in parentheses and in the sixth inning, unless noted.
11:44 update: Major-leaguers Matt Joyce and Dioner Navarro have made their way to the minor-league fields, which means they'll play somewhere.
TRIPLE-A
Perez cf, Chavez ss, Ruggiano rf, D. Johnson lf, Shealy dh, Richard 1b, Jaso c, Nowak 3b, Strait dh, De La Cruz 2b
DOUBLE-A
O'Malley 2b, Scelfo lf, Sexton 1b, Sweeney 3b, Cipriano dh, Royster dh, Vogt c (Paxton), Matulia cf (Salem), Corder rf (Fronk), Luna ss
HIGH-CLASS A
Murrill lf, T. Beckham ss (dh), Jefferies c (Torres in 8th), Williams 3b, Kang rf, Velasquez cf, Sheridan 1b, Hall 2b, Hauschild dh, Luis dh (ss)
LOW-CLASS A
Nommensen lf (Contreras), Otero 2b, Bortnick dh, Thomas c (Francisco in 8th), Cedeno dh, Sonoqui 1b (Wiegand), Jones cf, Davis 3b, Gonzalez ss (Vasquez), Bryles rf
Here are my stories from today on Wade Davis and a notebook.
The Rays play the Baltimore Orioles in minor-league exhibitions today. The Triple- and Double-A games are in Port Charlotte with the Class A games in Sarasota. Planned substitutions in parentheses and in the sixth inning, unless noted.
11:44 update: Major-leaguers Matt Joyce and Dioner Navarro have made their way to the minor-league fields, which means they'll play somewhere.
TRIPLE-A
Perez cf, Chavez ss, Ruggiano rf, D. Johnson lf, Shealy dh, Richard 1b, Jaso c, Nowak 3b, Strait dh, De La Cruz 2b
DOUBLE-A
O'Malley 2b, Scelfo lf, Sexton 1b, Sweeney 3b, Cipriano dh, Royster dh, Vogt c (Paxton), Matulia cf (Salem), Corder rf (Fronk), Luna ss
HIGH-CLASS A
Murrill lf, T. Beckham ss (dh), Jefferies c (Torres in 8th), Williams 3b, Kang rf, Velasquez cf, Sheridan 1b, Hall 2b, Hauschild dh, Luis dh (ss)
LOW-CLASS A
Nommensen lf (Contreras), Otero 2b, Bortnick dh, Thomas c (Francisco in 8th), Cedeno dh, Sonoqui 1b (Wiegand), Jones cf, Davis 3b, Gonzalez ss (Vasquez), Bryles rf
Here are my stories from today on Wade Davis and a notebook.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Gathright lands with Orioles
Joey Gathright, released Monday by Toronto, has signed a minor-league contract with the Baltimore Orioles. Gathright spent much of last year with the O's at Triple-A Norfolk.
Perry to roam with Barnstormers
Another of last year's Biscuits has found a home for 2010. Outfielder Jason Perry has signed with the independent Lancaster Barnstormers.
Bass to minors with Pirates
Pitcher/Montgomery native Brian Bass has been cut from Pittsburgh's major-league camp and reassigned to the minors.
Pitcher/Andalusia native Tyler Wilson is in Boston's minor-league camp. Unsuccessfully tried to track him down today.
Pitcher/Prattville native Austin Bailey has been released by the Red Sox. He had been placed on the restricted list by Boston in the offseason.
Pitcher/Andalusia native Tyler Wilson is in Boston's minor-league camp. Unsuccessfully tried to track him down today.
Pitcher/Prattville native Austin Bailey has been released by the Red Sox. He had been placed on the restricted list by Boston in the offseason.
Price: 'Home run' marred shutout start
David Price may have thrown seven shutout innings today in a minor-league game against the Red Sox, but he's counting a home run among them.
A second-inning flyball by Aaron Bates went as an error on the field -- but it's a homer in Price's mind. Why?
"That was 15 rows deep if there was no wind," said Price, who allowed one hit, walked one and struck out eight. His last inning came to an end after two outs with him at 106 pitches.
"I counted that as a home run," Price said. "I went 6 2/3 (innings) with one (run). That's my opinion."
A second-inning flyball by Aaron Bates went as an error on the field -- but it's a homer in Price's mind. Why?
"That was 15 rows deep if there was no wind," said Price, who allowed one hit, walked one and struck out eight. His last inning came to an end after two outs with him at 106 pitches.
"I counted that as a home run," Price said. "I went 6 2/3 (innings) with one (run). That's my opinion."
Price allows one hit in seven shutout innings
David Price worked seven shutout innings in a minor-league game today.
He allowed one hit (in the sixth), walked one (in the seventh) and struck out eight in 106 pitches.
They did end the bottom of the seventh after just two outs.
He allowed one hit (in the sixth), walked one (in the seventh) and struck out eight in 106 pitches.
They did end the bottom of the seventh after just two outs.
Price loses no-hitter; Double-A team no-hit
Look for any live updates in this thread, but here's the Triple-A hitting lineup.
Eldridge cf
Strait lf
Ruggiano rf
D. Johnson dh
Shealy 1b
Richard dh
Chavez 3b
Anderson 2b
De La Cruz ss
1st: Price eased through the first inning, so did Bennett with a strikeout and two groundouts. So did that Wakefield guy.
3rd: Two on and none out against this Wakefield guy. Royster just had a Bunyan-esque swing and missed. Joyce swung and missed at three straight knucklers. Matulia hit a ball down the line that the first baseman made a diving, backhanded play on and beat Matulia to the bag by a half-step.
More 3rd: The Sox went double-walk to start against Bennett, who responded with a Kc and a 6-4-3. Still scoreless and that Wakefield guy is done for the day.
Triple-A, 2nd: Dan Johnson homered to make it 1-0 Rays.
5th: Jose Lobaton lost the handle on his bat during one swing. The bat cleared the Tampa Bay dugout and landed next to the fence on an adjoining field. One player jokingly asked for the bench to judge the throw. I'll give it an 8.5. Bennett done after four shutout innings.
B5th: Cipriano made a sweet play to end the inning. He lunged to his right for a backhanded play on one knee and threw to first.
Trips, 5th: At first, I wondered if Price was done after four shutout. While the Rays batted, he was behind the dugout doing some of the "rubber band" exercises pitchers do before and just after an outing. But Price was back for the fifth and quickly retired the side.
Trips, 6th: Price just gave up his first hit. He retired 16 of the first 17 Sox, with the exception reaching on an error. It was a clean single by Bubba Bell past a diving Shealy. Price takes a shutout into the seventh.
Dubs, 6th: Sox score three off Torres. 3-0.
Trips, 7th: Shoppach groundout scores Richard. 2-0.
Double-A final: Sox 4-0. The Rays failed to muster a hit. I was watching Price too much.
Triple-A final: Rays 5-1. Johnson added a three-run homer in the ninth.
Eldridge cf
Strait lf
Ruggiano rf
D. Johnson dh
Shealy 1b
Richard dh
Chavez 3b
Anderson 2b
De La Cruz ss
1st: Price eased through the first inning, so did Bennett with a strikeout and two groundouts. So did that Wakefield guy.
3rd: Two on and none out against this Wakefield guy. Royster just had a Bunyan-esque swing and missed. Joyce swung and missed at three straight knucklers. Matulia hit a ball down the line that the first baseman made a diving, backhanded play on and beat Matulia to the bag by a half-step.
More 3rd: The Sox went double-walk to start against Bennett, who responded with a Kc and a 6-4-3. Still scoreless and that Wakefield guy is done for the day.
Triple-A, 2nd: Dan Johnson homered to make it 1-0 Rays.
5th: Jose Lobaton lost the handle on his bat during one swing. The bat cleared the Tampa Bay dugout and landed next to the fence on an adjoining field. One player jokingly asked for the bench to judge the throw. I'll give it an 8.5. Bennett done after four shutout innings.
B5th: Cipriano made a sweet play to end the inning. He lunged to his right for a backhanded play on one knee and threw to first.
Trips, 5th: At first, I wondered if Price was done after four shutout. While the Rays batted, he was behind the dugout doing some of the "rubber band" exercises pitchers do before and just after an outing. But Price was back for the fifth and quickly retired the side.
Trips, 6th: Price just gave up his first hit. He retired 16 of the first 17 Sox, with the exception reaching on an error. It was a clean single by Bubba Bell past a diving Shealy. Price takes a shutout into the seventh.
Dubs, 6th: Sox score three off Torres. 3-0.
Trips, 7th: Shoppach groundout scores Richard. 2-0.
Double-A final: Sox 4-0. The Rays failed to muster a hit. I was watching Price too much.
Triple-A final: Rays 5-1. Johnson added a three-run homer in the ninth.
Double-A lineup changes
Wholesale changes for the Double-A team's lineup. Major-leaguer Matt Joyce is also in the dugout.
O'Malley ss (Luna)
Scelfo lf (Fronk)
Lobaton c (Spring in 8th)
Fields 1b
Sweeney 3b
Cipriano 2b (J. Beckham)
Royster rf (Corder)
Matulia cf
Vogt dh
Jeff Bennett will have a short start with Alexander Torres to follow. The Sox are starting some pitcher named Tim Wakefield.
O'Malley ss (Luna)
Scelfo lf (Fronk)
Lobaton c (Spring in 8th)
Fields 1b
Sweeney 3b
Cipriano 2b (J. Beckham)
Royster rf (Corder)
Matulia cf
Vogt dh
Jeff Bennett will have a short start with Alexander Torres to follow. The Sox are starting some pitcher named Tim Wakefield.
Rollins has throwback nickname
Rays manager Joe Maddon, talking about bullpen possibilities, revealed a nickname he uses for former Biscuits pitcher Heath Rollins. We're talking a wayback, Hot Tub Time Machine nickname here -- "Tree" Rollins.
Also, first baseman Dan Johnson has been dropped from major-league camp and has accepted a minor-league assignment. That's one Durham roster spot locked up. "He knows how much we like him," Maddon said. "We like having him with us and I see him being very helpful at some point in the season."
Time to head to Fort Myers for the Triple-A and Double-A games.
Also, first baseman Dan Johnson has been dropped from major-league camp and has accepted a minor-league assignment. That's one Durham roster spot locked up. "He knows how much we like him," Maddon said. "We like having him with us and I see him being very helpful at some point in the season."
Time to head to Fort Myers for the Triple-A and Double-A games.
Tuesday lineup; Price starting for Triple-A team
The major-league Rays and the Class A teams are home today, while the Double- and Triple-A's are on the road. Common element: Everyone is playing the Red Sox.
Tug Hulett, formerly of Auburn University, is in Boston's major-league lineup today.
Planned minor-league substitutions in parentheses and in the sixth inning, unless noted.
MAJORS
Jason Bartlett ss, Carl Crawford lf, Ben Zobrist 2b, Carlos Pena 1b, B.J. Upton dh, Willy Aybar 3b, Pat Burrell rf, Dioner Navarro c, Gabe Kapler cf, Joaquin Benoit rhp
TRIPLE-A
not available, but David Price is the starting pitcher
DOUBLE-A
O'Malley ss (Luna), Scelfo lf (Fronk), Sexton dh (3b), Fields 1b, Sweeney 3b (dh), Cipriano 2b (J. Beckham), Royster rf (Corder), Spring c (Paxton), Matulia cf, Vogt dh
HIGH-CLASS A
Murrill lf (Morrison), T. Beckham ss, Jefferies c, Wrigley 3b, Sheridan 1b, Velasquez cf, Biell rf (Kang), Acosta c (Torres in 8th), Williams dh, Hall 2b
LOW-CLASS A
Nommensen lf, Glaesmann rf, Bortnick 2b (Otero), Wiegand 1b, Cedeno 3b (Spraker), Sonoqui dh, Estrada ss, Contreras dh (cf), Francisco c (Hauschild in 8th), Bryles cf (dh)
LOWER CLASS A
Gonzalez ss (dh), Davis 3b (Glynn), Reynolds rf (Diaz), Bailey dh, Jones cf, Malm 1b, Patton lf (Cohen), Simas c (Wendt), Vasquez dh (ss), Cuello 2b (Marchena)
Don't miss today's Desmond Jennings story and a notebook, though I'm sure you saw many of the notes here first.
Tug Hulett, formerly of Auburn University, is in Boston's major-league lineup today.
Planned minor-league substitutions in parentheses and in the sixth inning, unless noted.
MAJORS
Jason Bartlett ss, Carl Crawford lf, Ben Zobrist 2b, Carlos Pena 1b, B.J. Upton dh, Willy Aybar 3b, Pat Burrell rf, Dioner Navarro c, Gabe Kapler cf, Joaquin Benoit rhp
TRIPLE-A
not available, but David Price is the starting pitcher
DOUBLE-A
O'Malley ss (Luna), Scelfo lf (Fronk), Sexton dh (3b), Fields 1b, Sweeney 3b (dh), Cipriano 2b (J. Beckham), Royster rf (Corder), Spring c (Paxton), Matulia cf, Vogt dh
HIGH-CLASS A
Murrill lf (Morrison), T. Beckham ss, Jefferies c, Wrigley 3b, Sheridan 1b, Velasquez cf, Biell rf (Kang), Acosta c (Torres in 8th), Williams dh, Hall 2b
LOW-CLASS A
Nommensen lf, Glaesmann rf, Bortnick 2b (Otero), Wiegand 1b, Cedeno 3b (Spraker), Sonoqui dh, Estrada ss, Contreras dh (cf), Francisco c (Hauschild in 8th), Bryles cf (dh)
LOWER CLASS A
Gonzalez ss (dh), Davis 3b (Glynn), Reynolds rf (Diaz), Bailey dh, Jones cf, Malm 1b, Patton lf (Cohen), Simas c (Wendt), Vasquez dh (ss), Cuello 2b (Marchena)
Don't miss today's Desmond Jennings story and a notebook, though I'm sure you saw many of the notes here first.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Cortez lands spot with Newark Bears
Infielder Fernando Cortez, Montgomery's player of the year in 2004 who also played with the Biscuits last year, has signed with the Newark Bears of the independent Atlantic League.
Intrasquad live
Definitely an informal affair when intrasquad games are involved. For example, Jeremy Hellickson is actually staring for the Double-A team. Major-leaguer Dioner Navarro is catching Hellickson.
And Emeel Salem led off for Triple-A ... and homered.
12:48: Hellickson isn't his strongest, but this is against people who know him well. Ryan Shealy just hit an opposite-field RBI single and the runner had an outstandingly ridiculous jump from second anyway. They rolled over the inning without the usual three outs.
1:02: Helli gave up another HR, a two-run shot to Drew Anderson.
And Emeel Salem led off for Triple-A ... and homered.
12:48: Hellickson isn't his strongest, but this is against people who know him well. Ryan Shealy just hit an opposite-field RBI single and the runner had an outstandingly ridiculous jump from second anyway. They rolled over the inning without the usual three outs.
1:02: Helli gave up another HR, a two-run shot to Drew Anderson.
Jennings expects to return 'soon'
Center fielder Desmond Jennings is swinging a bat and says he's close to seeing live action after a wrist injury this month. "Soon, real soon," Jennings said before heading out for a 10-minute throwing session.
Game moved to big field
Today's Triple-A game will be played in the stadium because of the wet weather. The Double-A game will be on the field used by the Gulf Coast League team.
UPDATE: intrasquad games today. Upper guys in the stadium with the Class A's playing on the GCL field.
UPDATE: intrasquad games today. Upper guys in the stadium with the Class A's playing on the GCL field.
Timing right, but names look off for Opening Day starters
From the looks of it, the Rays aren't focused in yet on their starting pitching rotations. Except for Jeremy Hellickson in the Triple-A game, the other three aren't expected to start Opening Day.
It's Joseph Callender in Double-A with Chris Andujar and Wilking Rodriguez in the Class A games. Weather-wise, the rain has stopped and the skies are lighter but still cloudy.
Triple-A -- Hellickson, Joe Bateman, Ryan Reid, Rayner Oliveros
Double-A -- Callender, Eduardo Morlan, Justin Garcia, Josh Satow
High-A -- Andujar, Marquis Fleming, Michael Jarman, Zach Quate, Alex Koronis
Low-A -- Rodriguez, Aaron Dott, Deivis Mavarez, Scott Shuman, James Hill
10:08 CDT: The sun makes its debut.
It's Joseph Callender in Double-A with Chris Andujar and Wilking Rodriguez in the Class A games. Weather-wise, the rain has stopped and the skies are lighter but still cloudy.
Triple-A -- Hellickson, Joe Bateman, Ryan Reid, Rayner Oliveros
Double-A -- Callender, Eduardo Morlan, Justin Garcia, Josh Satow
High-A -- Andujar, Marquis Fleming, Michael Jarman, Zach Quate, Alex Koronis
Low-A -- Rodriguez, Aaron Dott, Deivis Mavarez, Scott Shuman, James Hill
10:08 CDT: The sun makes its debut.
Weather has a case of the Mondays
It's raining pretty heavily this morning in Port Charlotte. Forecasts say it's supposed to clear about noon, but that may not be in time to keep today's minor-league games against the Red Sox Twins from being rained out.
If they aren't, here are the planned lineups for Tampa Bay's teams. Upper teams are scheduled to play in Port Charlotte with the Class A teams down in Fort Myers. (Substitutions in parentheses and, unless noted, planned for the fifth inning. And, yes, some of these lineups have 10 batters.)
TRIPLE-A
Fernando Perez lf, Angel Chavez 2b, Justin Ruggiano rf, Chris Richard 1b, Ryan Shealy dh, Chris Nowak 3b, Rashad Eldridge cf, Chris De La Cruz, ss, Drew Anderson dh (Emeel Salem, Cody Strait and Jose Lobaton are the subs. No definite substitution plans.)
DOUBLE-A
John Matulia cf (Anthony Scelfo), Matt Hall (Omar Luna), Greg Sexton 3b (dh in 6th), Matt Fields 1b (Henry Wrigley), Matt Sweeney dh (3b in 6th), Cody Cipriano 2b, Stephen Vogt c (Ian Paxton), Ryan Royster rf (Jason Corder), Reid Fronk lf
HIGH-CLASS A
Dustin Biell rf (K.D. Kang), Ty Morrison lf (Chris Murrill), Tim Beckham ss, Eli Sonoqui dh, Jake Jefferies c (Tyler Hauschild), Isaias Velasquez cf, Brett Nommensen dh, Robi Estrada 2b, Michael Sheridan 1b, Shawn Williams 3b (Jeremy Beckham)
LOW-CLASS A
D.J. Jones lf (Ruben Contreras), Todd Glaesmann cf, Tyler Bortnick 2b (Elias Otero), Mark Thomas c (Mayobanex Acosta), Ryan Wiegand 1b (Jeff Malm), Kyle Spraker 3b (Eugene Glynn), Burt Reynolds dh, Tomas Francisco dh, Felix Gonzalez ss, Brian Bryles rf (Jason Patton)
If they aren't, here are the planned lineups for Tampa Bay's teams. Upper teams are scheduled to play in Port Charlotte with the Class A teams down in Fort Myers. (Substitutions in parentheses and, unless noted, planned for the fifth inning. And, yes, some of these lineups have 10 batters.)
TRIPLE-A
Fernando Perez lf, Angel Chavez 2b, Justin Ruggiano rf, Chris Richard 1b, Ryan Shealy dh, Chris Nowak 3b, Rashad Eldridge cf, Chris De La Cruz, ss, Drew Anderson dh (Emeel Salem, Cody Strait and Jose Lobaton are the subs. No definite substitution plans.)
DOUBLE-A
John Matulia cf (Anthony Scelfo), Matt Hall (Omar Luna), Greg Sexton 3b (dh in 6th), Matt Fields 1b (Henry Wrigley), Matt Sweeney dh (3b in 6th), Cody Cipriano 2b, Stephen Vogt c (Ian Paxton), Ryan Royster rf (Jason Corder), Reid Fronk lf
HIGH-CLASS A
Dustin Biell rf (K.D. Kang), Ty Morrison lf (Chris Murrill), Tim Beckham ss, Eli Sonoqui dh, Jake Jefferies c (Tyler Hauschild), Isaias Velasquez cf, Brett Nommensen dh, Robi Estrada 2b, Michael Sheridan 1b, Shawn Williams 3b (Jeremy Beckham)
LOW-CLASS A
D.J. Jones lf (Ruben Contreras), Todd Glaesmann cf, Tyler Bortnick 2b (Elias Otero), Mark Thomas c (Mayobanex Acosta), Ryan Wiegand 1b (Jeff Malm), Kyle Spraker 3b (Eugene Glynn), Burt Reynolds dh, Tomas Francisco dh, Felix Gonzalez ss, Brian Bryles rf (Jason Patton)
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Blue Jays release Gathright
Outfielder Joey Gathright, the first Biscuit to reach the majors way back in 2004, was released today by the Toronto Blue Jays.
Hellickson on tap for Monday
Jeremy Hellickson is scheduled to pitch Monday, which means he's on schedule to be Durham's Opening Day starter.
That would also put him on schedule to pitch Saturday when the Bulls face Tampa Bay in an exhibition game in Durham.
That would also put him on schedule to pitch Saturday when the Bulls face Tampa Bay in an exhibition game in Durham.
Cromer expects to miss first month
Pitcher Jason Cromer will miss the start of the season with a minor elbow injury. He said he hurt it playing in Venezuela this winter. He's supposed to throw for the first time Tuesday and expects to miss the first month of the season. He was in high spirits.
Looked for and didn't see Desmond Jennings today. He's out with a wrist injury and has been limited to off-field work.
Pitcher Alex Cobb, expected to start the season with the Biscuits, won't because of an oblique injury. Not sure how long he'll be out. He was 8-5 with a 3.03 ERA last year for high-Class A Charlotte.
Looked for and didn't see Desmond Jennings today. He's out with a wrist injury and has been limited to off-field work.
Pitcher Alex Cobb, expected to start the season with the Biscuits, won't because of an oblique injury. Not sure how long he'll be out. He was 8-5 with a 3.03 ERA last year for high-Class A Charlotte.
Rollins tucked away in clubhouse corner
Former Biscuits pitcher Heath Rollins is practically off by himself. His locker is at least 10 feet from the next player and maybe 15 from the one after that. There's a wall that isolates him further.
He's positioned well ... if he were the official greeter for those entering the main door of Tampa Bay's spring training clubhouse, but there's one thing about it -- he's still there.
Rollins is in his first major-league camp and, despite being a non-roster invitee, is still there with a week left.
"I just try not to really think about it," Rollins said.
He's a longshot to break camp with the Rays, but the right-hander has apparently made an impression. Rollins has a 3.87 ERA in 9 1/3 innings with a win and a save.
Rollins spent much of last year with the Biscuits and made a midseason transition from the starting rotation to the bullpen. He was 9-10 with a 3.94 ERA in 22 starts. In six relief appearances, he had a 2.53 ERA and allowed three of seven inherited runners to score.
Rollins ended the season with three appearances at Durham and pitched in the Arizona Fall League. Now, he feels like a reliever rather than someone making a transition.
"I like it. I like having a chance to get in every game," said Rollins, a two-way player in college. "You have to be ready everyday. There's a little different mindset, but I like it."
He's positioned well ... if he were the official greeter for those entering the main door of Tampa Bay's spring training clubhouse, but there's one thing about it -- he's still there.
Rollins is in his first major-league camp and, despite being a non-roster invitee, is still there with a week left.
"I just try not to really think about it," Rollins said.
He's a longshot to break camp with the Rays, but the right-hander has apparently made an impression. Rollins has a 3.87 ERA in 9 1/3 innings with a win and a save.
Rollins spent much of last year with the Biscuits and made a midseason transition from the starting rotation to the bullpen. He was 9-10 with a 3.94 ERA in 22 starts. In six relief appearances, he had a 2.53 ERA and allowed three of seven inherited runners to score.
Rollins ended the season with three appearances at Durham and pitched in the Arizona Fall League. Now, he feels like a reliever rather than someone making a transition.
"I like it. I like having a chance to get in every game," said Rollins, a two-way player in college. "You have to be ready everyday. There's a little different mindset, but I like it."
Niemann acknowledges SEC greatness
Rays pitcher Jeff "the SEC is overrated" Niemann actually complimented the conference, however slightly, before today's game with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
David Price was walking nearby when he was asked what team won last year's College World Series and to what conference that school belongs. Price, realizing the answers were LSU and the SEC, turned to Niemann and gave an "oh, yeah."
Niemann, to Price, about me: "Me and him have gone back and forth about this for years. I used to have more of an argument, but not the last few years."
Niemann, who didn't offer a defense for Rice's two-win football team, is pitching Monday night in Fort Myers against the Boston Red Sox and Josh Beckett. On Tuesday, Price said he's pitching in Fort Myers in a minor-league game against the Red Sox.
David Price was walking nearby when he was asked what team won last year's College World Series and to what conference that school belongs. Price, realizing the answers were LSU and the SEC, turned to Niemann and gave an "oh, yeah."
Niemann, to Price, about me: "Me and him have gone back and forth about this for years. I used to have more of an argument, but not the last few years."
Niemann, who didn't offer a defense for Rice's two-win football team, is pitching Monday night in Fort Myers against the Boston Red Sox and Josh Beckett. On Tuesday, Price said he's pitching in Fort Myers in a minor-league game against the Red Sox.
No longer on minor-league roster
Former Biscuits catcher Alex Jamieson is among nine players who were on Tampa Bay's minor-league spring training roster when camp opened and are not listed on the current roster.
PITCHERS
James Bagley
Jeff Cinadr
Brian Flores
Tyler Oakes
Ryan Owen
Michael Southern
CATCHERS
Alex Jamieson
John Mollicone
INFIELDER
Daniel Rhault
PITCHERS
James Bagley
Jeff Cinadr
Brian Flores
Tyler Oakes
Ryan Owen
Michael Southern
CATCHERS
Alex Jamieson
John Mollicone
INFIELDER
Daniel Rhault
Camp day Sunday for minors
Reporting to camp and there are intrasquad games today.
The Class A game is drawing interest because of a 16-year-old's tryout. Wagner Mateo was with the Cardinals, but St. Louis voided his $3.1 million contract because of a pre-existing condition.
Mateo, a Dominican outfielder, has drawn about 10 scouts.
The major-league team hosts the Pirates today, too.
The Class A game is drawing interest because of a 16-year-old's tryout. Wagner Mateo was with the Cardinals, but St. Louis voided his $3.1 million contract because of a pre-existing condition.
Mateo, a Dominican outfielder, has drawn about 10 scouts.
The major-league team hosts the Pirates today, too.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Talbot going north with Tribe
Listening to the Indians-Diamondbacks game while driving south.
The Cleveland crew just said that former Biscuits pitcher Mitch Talbot will be on the Tribe's Opening Day roster.
He was out of minor-league options anyway and couldn't go to the minors without clearing waivers. Talbot will be the fourth starter.
The Cleveland crew just said that former Biscuits pitcher Mitch Talbot will be on the Tribe's Opening Day roster.
He was out of minor-league options anyway and couldn't go to the minors without clearing waivers. Talbot will be the fourth starter.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Astros drop Wright to minors
Pitcher Wesley Wright, native Montgomery Countian and Goshen High grad, has been optioned to the minor leagues by the Houston Astros.
Montgomery roster guesses
Making the long drive Saturday -- south on U.S. 231, take a left on I-10, take a right on I-75, exit at Port Charlotte -- for spring training.
In my annual tradition of showing how little I know, here are my roster guesses for the Biscuits. These are obviously before I know anything about what's happened in camp. We started the blog with one of these way back when.
Pitchers -- Alex Torres, Darin Downs, Alex Cobb, David Newmann, Jake McGee, Matt Gorgen, Richard De Los Santos
Catchers -- Jose Lobaton, Nevin Ashley
Infielders -- Matt Sweeney, Shawn O'Malley, Cody Cipriano, Matt Fields
Outfielder -- Emeel Salem
If Lobaton is a surprise, I pick him because the Rays won't want two 40-man catchers splitting time at Triple-A Durham. They'd prefer both seeing regular playing time. Also, before someone points out you need three outfielders to play a game, I don't have the guts to pick a second at this time.
Opening night starting pitcher? I'll go with the Reno Rabbit, McGee. (Yes, I just made up that nickname.)
As far as the trip, I'll definitely hide my press credentials when rolling through Gainesville. I hear they don't like it there when you ask questions and accurately report what's said.
In my annual tradition of showing how little I know, here are my roster guesses for the Biscuits. These are obviously before I know anything about what's happened in camp. We started the blog with one of these way back when.
Pitchers -- Alex Torres, Darin Downs, Alex Cobb, David Newmann, Jake McGee, Matt Gorgen, Richard De Los Santos
Catchers -- Jose Lobaton, Nevin Ashley
Infielders -- Matt Sweeney, Shawn O'Malley, Cody Cipriano, Matt Fields
Outfielder -- Emeel Salem
If Lobaton is a surprise, I pick him because the Rays won't want two 40-man catchers splitting time at Triple-A Durham. They'd prefer both seeing regular playing time. Also, before someone points out you need three outfielders to play a game, I don't have the guts to pick a second at this time.
Opening night starting pitcher? I'll go with the Reno Rabbit, McGee. (Yes, I just made up that nickname.)
As far as the trip, I'll definitely hide my press credentials when rolling through Gainesville. I hear they don't like it there when you ask questions and accurately report what's said.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Jennings slated to adorn Baseball America cover
Lead-footed former Biscuits outfielder Desmond Jennings will be on the cover of next week's Baseball America, which is the magazine's 2010 minor-league preview.
Personally, there are other magazine covers of late that caught my attention more than DJ's. I'm confident Jennings would agree, too.
Personally, there are other magazine covers of late that caught my attention more than DJ's. I'm confident Jennings would agree, too.
Corcoran makes news with Dodgers
Former Biscuits pitcher Tim Corcoran made an impression in camp with the Dodgers on Monday. Three impressions, to be exact.
Corcoran threw live batting practice to rehabbing catcher Russell Martin. Corcoran brushed him back once and hit him twice before the session came to an end. They weren't on purpose, by the way.
Corcoran threw live batting practice to rehabbing catcher Russell Martin. Corcoran brushed him back once and hit him twice before the session came to an end. They weren't on purpose, by the way.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Dmitri Young joins indy team's front office
Former Alabama Christian and major-league star Dmitri Young has been named the vice president and senior advisor-baseball operations for the Oakland County Cruisers of the independent Frontier League.
2 Biscuits ply trade in Taiwan
Former Biscuits pitchers Chris Mason and Jim Magrane are playing in Taiwan this year.
Magrane is the Opening Day starter for the Brother Elephants and Mason is playing for the La New Bears.
The Taiwan league is trying to recover from a game-fixing scandal and it hit the Bears hard. A close, local friend of Mason's told me Bears players have to report all off-the-field contacts. They also have an early curfew.
Magrane is the Opening Day starter for the Brother Elephants and Mason is playing for the La New Bears.
The Taiwan league is trying to recover from a game-fixing scandal and it hit the Bears hard. A close, local friend of Mason's told me Bears players have to report all off-the-field contacts. They also have an early curfew.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Dukes released by Nationals
The Washington Nationals announced today that they've released outfielder Elijah Dukes. MLBtraderumors.com called it "strange." The Nats said it was for baseball reasons. That's an attempt to rule out speculation of non-baseball reasons.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Hines returns, to play for Somerset
Pitcher Carlos Hines, formerly of the Biscuits, has signed with the Somerset Patriots of the independent Atlantic League. Hines last pitched in 2008 in the Houston organization.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Hall officially a Bum; Ducks quack over 3 signings
Former Biscuits outfielder J.T. Hall has signed with the Traverse City Beach Bums of the independent Frontier League.
Also, catcher Robinson Cancel and pitcher Jose Diaz, plus Alexander City native/pitcher Jerome Gamble, agreed to terms with the Long Island Ducks of the independent Atlantic League.
Also, catcher Robinson Cancel and pitcher Jose Diaz, plus Alexander City native/pitcher Jerome Gamble, agreed to terms with the Long Island Ducks of the independent Atlantic League.
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
Rays' minor-league spring roster
Wesley Lyle here. Sorry that Stacy can't legally post to the blog this week. He did forward me an e-mail from the Rays listing their spring minor-league roster. Enjoy.
He did mention that I should write that this list doesn't include anybody currently in major-league camp.
PITCHERS (67)
Wilmer Almonte
Chris Andujar
Kyle Ayers
James Bagley
Brian Baker
Nick Barnese
Andrew Bellatti
Omar Bencomo
Matt Bush
Joseph Callender
Kevin Chavez
Jeff Cinadr
Alex Cobb
Alex Colome
Joseph Cruz
Dane De La Rosa
Jairo De La Rosa
Frank De Los Santos
Joey Dettrich
Aaron Dott
Darin Downs
Shane Dyer
Woods Fines
Marquis Fleming
Brian Flores
Neal Frontz
Devin Fuller
Brad Furdal
Justin Garcia
Matt Gorgen
Jeremy Hall
James Hill
Austin Hinkle
Kevin James
Michael Jarman
Marcus Jensen
Will Kline
Alex Koronis
Kyle Lobstein
Deivis Mavarez
Jason McEachern
Matt Moore
Eduardo Morlan
David Newmann
Tyler Oakes
Rayner Olveros
Ryan Owen
Jacob Partridge
Paul Phillips
Zach Quate
Tommy Rafferty
Ryan Reid
Aneury Rodriguez
Wilking Rodriguez
Zach Rosscup
Josh Satow
Neil Schenk
Trevor Shull
Brian Shuman
Miguel Sierra
Shawn Smith
Michael Southern
Matt Stabelfeld
Albert Suarez
Jake Sullivan
Matt Swilley
Kirby Yates
CATCHERS (16)
Mayobanex Acosta
Luke Bailey
Luis Bautista
Tomas Francisco
David Genao
Tyler Hauschild
Alex Jamieson
Jake Jefferies
John Mollicone
Ian Paxton
Travis Simas
Matt Spring
Mark Thomas
Alejandro Torres
Stephen Vogt
David Wendt
INFIELDERS (32)
Drew Anderson
Jeremy Beckham
Tyler Bortnick
Julio Cedeno
Cody Cipriano
Juan Cuello
Bennett Davis
Chris De La Cruz
Robi Estrada
Matt Fields
Eugene Glynn
Felix Gonzalez
Matt Hall
Diogenes Luis
Omar Luna
Jeff Malm
Luis Marchena
Chris Nowak
Shawn O'Malley
Elias Otero
Burt Reynolds
Daniel Rhault
Greg Sexton
Mike Sheridan
Eli Sonoqui
Kyle Spraker
Matt Sweeney
Cristian Vasquez
Isaias Velasquez
Ryan Wiegand
Shawn Williams
Henry Wrigley III
OUTFIELDERS (22)
Dustin Biell
Brian Bryles
Gabe Cohen
Ruben Contreras
Jason Corder
Alex Diaz
Rashad Eldridge
Reid Fronk
ToddGlaesmann
D.J. Jones
K.D. Kang
John Matulia
Ty Morrison
Chris Murrill
Brett Nommensen
Hunter Pact
Jason Patton
Cody Rogers
Ryan Royster
Emeel Salem
Anthony Scelfo
Cody Strait
He did mention that I should write that this list doesn't include anybody currently in major-league camp.
PITCHERS (67)
Wilmer Almonte
Chris Andujar
Kyle Ayers
James Bagley
Brian Baker
Nick Barnese
Andrew Bellatti
Omar Bencomo
Matt Bush
Joseph Callender
Kevin Chavez
Jeff Cinadr
Alex Cobb
Alex Colome
Joseph Cruz
Dane De La Rosa
Jairo De La Rosa
Frank De Los Santos
Joey Dettrich
Aaron Dott
Darin Downs
Shane Dyer
Woods Fines
Marquis Fleming
Brian Flores
Neal Frontz
Devin Fuller
Brad Furdal
Justin Garcia
Matt Gorgen
Jeremy Hall
James Hill
Austin Hinkle
Kevin James
Michael Jarman
Marcus Jensen
Will Kline
Alex Koronis
Kyle Lobstein
Deivis Mavarez
Jason McEachern
Matt Moore
Eduardo Morlan
David Newmann
Tyler Oakes
Rayner Olveros
Ryan Owen
Jacob Partridge
Paul Phillips
Zach Quate
Tommy Rafferty
Ryan Reid
Aneury Rodriguez
Wilking Rodriguez
Zach Rosscup
Josh Satow
Neil Schenk
Trevor Shull
Brian Shuman
Miguel Sierra
Shawn Smith
Michael Southern
Matt Stabelfeld
Albert Suarez
Jake Sullivan
Matt Swilley
Kirby Yates
CATCHERS (16)
Mayobanex Acosta
Luke Bailey
Luis Bautista
Tomas Francisco
David Genao
Tyler Hauschild
Alex Jamieson
Jake Jefferies
John Mollicone
Ian Paxton
Travis Simas
Matt Spring
Mark Thomas
Alejandro Torres
Stephen Vogt
David Wendt
INFIELDERS (32)
Drew Anderson
Jeremy Beckham
Tyler Bortnick
Julio Cedeno
Cody Cipriano
Juan Cuello
Bennett Davis
Chris De La Cruz
Robi Estrada
Matt Fields
Eugene Glynn
Felix Gonzalez
Matt Hall
Diogenes Luis
Omar Luna
Jeff Malm
Luis Marchena
Chris Nowak
Shawn O'Malley
Elias Otero
Burt Reynolds
Daniel Rhault
Greg Sexton
Mike Sheridan
Eli Sonoqui
Kyle Spraker
Matt Sweeney
Cristian Vasquez
Isaias Velasquez
Ryan Wiegand
Shawn Williams
Henry Wrigley III
OUTFIELDERS (22)
Dustin Biell
Brian Bryles
Gabe Cohen
Ruben Contreras
Jason Corder
Alex Diaz
Rashad Eldridge
Reid Fronk
ToddGlaesmann
D.J. Jones
K.D. Kang
John Matulia
Ty Morrison
Chris Murrill
Brett Nommensen
Hunter Pact
Jason Patton
Cody Rogers
Ryan Royster
Emeel Salem
Anthony Scelfo
Cody Strait
Saturday, March 06, 2010
Week's siesta awaits
Starting at midnight, I'm out the next week and will not legally be able to update anything or answer any questions here. If something big happens, Advertiser prep guru Wesley Lyle may drop a few lines, but there won't be anything extravagant.
Monday, March 01, 2010
Tampa Bay's minor-league spring schedule
If you're headed down to spring training and want to catch some Tampa Bay minor-league games, here's the schedule.
More exactly, here is the Double- and Triple-A schedule. The Class A teams play the same teams on the same dates, but at the opposite camp.
Baltimore trains in Sarasota with the upper-level teams at Ed Smith Stadium and the lower levels at Twin Lakes Park. Boston and Minnesota have their camps in Fort Myers (Sox here and Twins here). The Rays, of course, are in Port Charlotte.
Minor-league spring training starts this week.
MARCH
17 at Baltimore
18 Baltimore
19 Minnesota
20 at Boston
21 camp day
22 Baltimore
23 at Baltimore
24 at Minnesota
25 Boston
26 Baltimore
27 at Baltimore
28 camp day
29 Minnesota
30 at Boston
31 Baltimore
APRIL
1 at Baltimore
2 Boston
3 camp day
4 intrasquad games, break camp
More exactly, here is the Double- and Triple-A schedule. The Class A teams play the same teams on the same dates, but at the opposite camp.
Baltimore trains in Sarasota with the upper-level teams at Ed Smith Stadium and the lower levels at Twin Lakes Park. Boston and Minnesota have their camps in Fort Myers (Sox here and Twins here). The Rays, of course, are in Port Charlotte.
Minor-league spring training starts this week.
MARCH
17 at Baltimore
18 Baltimore
19 Minnesota
20 at Boston
21 camp day
22 Baltimore
23 at Baltimore
24 at Minnesota
25 Boston
26 Baltimore
27 at Baltimore
28 camp day
29 Minnesota
30 at Boston
31 Baltimore
APRIL
1 at Baltimore
2 Boston
3 camp day
4 intrasquad games, break camp
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