The Advertiser's revamped site includes some one-stop shopping for all things Biscuits. And, as you've come to expect from Biscuit Crumbs, a lot on the Rays, Durham Bulls, Charlotte Stone Crabs and Bowling Green Hot Rods, too.
Go to montgomeryadvertiser.com/sports/biscuits to see all of our coverage.
Since all the stories/blog posts/etc. are there, there's no longer any need for me to post daily links. The page will still have the daily recap of each game, the nightly Rays roundup and the morning Ranking the Rays.
With that, I won't be posting to this blog anymore, but I'll still be using my posts here as historical reference. Heck, we started using Blogger in 2006 and have used it ever since, except for one season where I was required to use montgomeryadvertiser.com as the blog's home, with more than 6,000 posts in between.
I hope you enjoy the new look. See you at the ballpark ... and, of course, montgomeryadvertiser.com/sports/biscuits.
Saturday, April 19, 2014
Friday, April 18, 2014
Friday's Rays roundup
Bulls 3, Norfolk 0Nate Karns' seven innings included just two hits, one walk and nine strikeouts. Mike Fontenot homered and walked. Jerry Sands singled thrice and scored.
Palm Beach 8, Stone Crabs 3
Tyler Goeddel hit a two-run home run and singled twice. Josh Sale doubled, walked twice, RBI'd and scored.
Clinton 7, Hot Rods 1
Juniel Querecuto doubled, singled and RBI'd. Granden Goetzman doubled, singled and stole. Johnny Field singled, walked and stole. Bowling Green has lost 12 straight.
Friday: Biscuits 3, Blue Wahoos 1
Matt Neil was the winning pitcher in his Biscuits debut Friday, helping Montgomery take a 3-1 victory over the Pensacola Blue Wahoos.
The Biscuits picked up four wins in the five-game series at Pensacola and finished a 6-4 road trip. Montgomery opens a home series with Mississippi today.
Neil (1-0) allowed one hit over 2 2/3 innings in relief of starter Grayson Garvin.
Garvin, on a strict pitch limit due to elbow surgery in June 2012, worked three shutout innings for a second straight start. The left-hander gave up four hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
When Garvin left, the Biscuits led 2-0.
Cameron Seitzer's flyout brought in Taylor Motter with the first run in the first inning. In the second, Joey Rickard's flyout sent home Riccio Torrez, who had doubled.
The Wahoos scored in the fourth off Neil. Bryan Anderson hit a leadoff double and came in on Devin Lohman's two-out single.
Rickard gave the Biscuits a two-run lead in the ninth. He hit a leadoff double and scored on a two-out wild pitch.
The Biscuits picked up four wins in the five-game series at Pensacola and finished a 6-4 road trip. Montgomery opens a home series with Mississippi today.
Neil (1-0) allowed one hit over 2 2/3 innings in relief of starter Grayson Garvin.
Garvin, on a strict pitch limit due to elbow surgery in June 2012, worked three shutout innings for a second straight start. The left-hander gave up four hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
When Garvin left, the Biscuits led 2-0.
Cameron Seitzer's flyout brought in Taylor Motter with the first run in the first inning. In the second, Joey Rickard's flyout sent home Riccio Torrez, who had doubled.
The Wahoos scored in the fourth off Neil. Bryan Anderson hit a leadoff double and came in on Devin Lohman's two-out single.
Rickard gave the Biscuits a two-run lead in the ninth. He hit a leadoff double and scored on a two-out wild pitch.
New pitcher joins Biscuits
Right-handed reliever Bryce Stowell has joined the Biscuits.
Stowell was 4-1 with four saves and a 2.58 ERA at Double-A Akron in the Cleveland organization last season.
Stowell was a 22nd-round draft pick of the Indians in 2008 out of Cal-Irvine (freaking Anteaters). He reached Triple-A in 2010 and had a 5.49 ERA in 17 appearances.
With Stowell, the Biscuits reach the Southern League 25-man roster limit, a sign that the injuries to DL'd relievers Sam Runion (shoulder) and Matt Ramsey (unknown) may not be minor.
Stowell was 4-1 with four saves and a 2.58 ERA at Double-A Akron in the Cleveland organization last season.
Stowell was a 22nd-round draft pick of the Indians in 2008 out of Cal-Irvine (freaking Anteaters). He reached Triple-A in 2010 and had a 5.49 ERA in 17 appearances.
With Stowell, the Biscuits reach the Southern League 25-man roster limit, a sign that the injuries to DL'd relievers Sam Runion (shoulder) and Matt Ramsey (unknown) may not be minor.
Ranking the Rays ... Colla, Kelly, Field
For Thursday ...
1. Michael Colla, MGM: 7 innings, 2 runs, 7 hits, walk, 8 Ks
2. Merrill Kelly, DUR: 6 innings, 2 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, 6 Ks
3. Johnny Field, BWG: 2 2b's, 1b, run
4. Leonardo Reginatto, CHA: 2b, 2 1b's, RBI, picked off
5. Kevin Brandt, CHA: 3 shutout, 3 hits, 2 walks, 2 Ks
1. Michael Colla, MGM: 7 innings, 2 runs, 7 hits, walk, 8 Ks
2. Merrill Kelly, DUR: 6 innings, 2 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, 6 Ks
3. Johnny Field, BWG: 2 2b's, 1b, run
4. Leonardo Reginatto, CHA: 2b, 2 1b's, RBI, picked off
5. Kevin Brandt, CHA: 3 shutout, 3 hits, 2 walks, 2 Ks
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Thursday's Rays roundup
Bulls 3, Norfolk 2Merrill Kelly's six innings included two runs on just two hits. Ray Olmedo singled twice and scored. Jerry Sands singled, walked, had two RBIs and scored.
Stone Crabs 5, Palm Beach 3Patrick Leonard singled twice, RBI'd and scored twice. Leonardo Reginatto doubled, singled twice and RBI'd. Kevin Brandt threw three shutout innings.
Clinton 7, Hot Rods 4
Johnny Field doubled twice, singled and scored. Granden Goetzman hit an inside-the-park home run. Bowling Green has lost 11 straight.
Thursday: Biscuits 3, Blue Wahoos 2
Mike Colla posted a career-high eight strikeouts and Richie Shaffer homered to lead the Biscuits in a 3-2 rain-shortened win at Pensacola on Thursday.
Colla worked seven innings, the most by a Biscuits starter this year, and gave up two runs on seven hits. He walked one.
Colla also recorded the first quality start for Montgomery this season.
The game was stopped by heavy rain with no outs in the top of the ninth inning.
Shaffer homered to lead off the second inning for the game's first run. Shaffer has a Biscuits-best three home runs.
Montgomery made it 3-0 in the fourth on a two-run Luke Maile single. After Cameron Seitzer's one-out single, Alejandro Segovia drew a two-out walk and Jeff Malm singled to bring up Maile.
The Blue Wahoos hit Colla for two runs on three hits in the fourth. Steve Selsky hit a two-run single with two outs.
Colla, a seventh-year pro, struck out seven in four previous appearances for an affiliated team, most recently for Double-A Altoona on April 29, 2012.
Colla worked seven innings, the most by a Biscuits starter this year, and gave up two runs on seven hits. He walked one.
Colla also recorded the first quality start for Montgomery this season.
The game was stopped by heavy rain with no outs in the top of the ninth inning.
Shaffer homered to lead off the second inning for the game's first run. Shaffer has a Biscuits-best three home runs.
Montgomery made it 3-0 in the fourth on a two-run Luke Maile single. After Cameron Seitzer's one-out single, Alejandro Segovia drew a two-out walk and Jeff Malm singled to bring up Maile.
The Blue Wahoos hit Colla for two runs on three hits in the fourth. Steve Selsky hit a two-run single with two outs.
Colla, a seventh-year pro, struck out seven in four previous appearances for an affiliated team, most recently for Double-A Altoona on April 29, 2012.
Ramsey on DL; Biscuits add Matt Neil
Biscuits reliever Matt Ramsey is the latest to go on the disabled list, though Montgomery has added right-hander Matt Neil.
No reason for Ramsey going on the DL was included in the Biscuits' announcement of the Rays' announcement.
Ramsey hasn't given up a hit in three innings/three appearances, but he hasn't pitched since April 10 -- and that's his only outing since April 5.
Neil was a combined 5-5 with a 3.70 ERA between Double-A Jacksonville and Triple-A New Orleans in the Miami organization last year. He's a fourth-year pro and was a 29th-round draft pick of the Marlins out of BYU in 2011.
Biscuits reliever Sam Runion also went on the disabled list Monday with a shoulder injury.
No reason for Ramsey going on the DL was included in the Biscuits' announcement of the Rays' announcement.
Ramsey hasn't given up a hit in three innings/three appearances, but he hasn't pitched since April 10 -- and that's his only outing since April 5.
Neil was a combined 5-5 with a 3.70 ERA between Double-A Jacksonville and Triple-A New Orleans in the Miami organization last year. He's a fourth-year pro and was a 29th-round draft pick of the Marlins out of BYU in 2011.
Biscuits reliever Sam Runion also went on the disabled list Monday with a shoulder injury.
Ranking the Rays ... Faria, Mortensen, Lopez
For Wednesday ...
1. Jake Faria, BWG: 6 innings, unearned run, 3 hits, walk, 6 Ks, 8 GBO
2. Jared Mortensen, MGM: 5 shutout, 4 hits, 3 walks, 4 Ks
3. Reinaldo Lopez, CHA: 6 innings, 2 runs, 3 hits, 2 walks, 5 Ks, 9 GBO
4. Wilson Betemit, DUR: 2-run HR, 1b, walk, 2 runs
5. Richie Shaffer, MGM: 1b, 3 walks, 2 runs
1. Jake Faria, BWG: 6 innings, unearned run, 3 hits, walk, 6 Ks, 8 GBO
2. Jared Mortensen, MGM: 5 shutout, 4 hits, 3 walks, 4 Ks
3. Reinaldo Lopez, CHA: 6 innings, 2 runs, 3 hits, 2 walks, 5 Ks, 9 GBO
4. Wilson Betemit, DUR: 2-run HR, 1b, walk, 2 runs
5. Richie Shaffer, MGM: 1b, 3 walks, 2 runs
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Wednesday's Rays roundup
Norfolk 9, Bulls 6
Wilson Betemit hit a two-run home run, singled, walked and scored twice. C.J. Riefenhauser threw two shutout innings. Mayo Acosta took the loss (seriously), giving up three runs over two innings. The eighth-year pro catcher was making his pitching debut.
Fort Myers 6, Stone Crabs 5
Tommy Coyle singled twice, walked and scored twice. Kes Carter singled thrice, had two RBIs and stole. Maxx Tissenbaum doubled, singled, walked, scored twice and erred twice. Reinaldo Lopez gave up two runs on three hits in six innings.
Kane County 6, Hot Rods 2
Jake Faria allowed an unearned run on three hits in six innings. Pat Blair singled, walked, was caught thieving and scored. Andrew Hanse gave up five runs in the ninth.
Wilson Betemit hit a two-run home run, singled, walked and scored twice. C.J. Riefenhauser threw two shutout innings. Mayo Acosta took the loss (seriously), giving up three runs over two innings. The eighth-year pro catcher was making his pitching debut.
Fort Myers 6, Stone Crabs 5
Tommy Coyle singled twice, walked and scored twice. Kes Carter singled thrice, had two RBIs and stole. Maxx Tissenbaum doubled, singled, walked, scored twice and erred twice. Reinaldo Lopez gave up two runs on three hits in six innings.
Kane County 6, Hot Rods 2
Jake Faria allowed an unearned run on three hits in six innings. Pat Blair singled, walked, was caught thieving and scored. Andrew Hanse gave up five runs in the ninth.
Wednesday: Biscuits 5, Blue Wahoos 0
Jared Mortensen and two relievers combined on a six-hitter and Jeff Malm hit a grand slam in the Biscuits' 5-0 victory at Pensacola on Wednesday.
Mortensen (2-0) marked his second straight start of five shutout innings. He allowed four hits, walked three and struck out four. Jake Thompson threw three innings of one-hit ball and Santiago Garrido recorded a one-hit ninth.
The Biscuits scored in the fourth when Joey Rickard drew a bases-loaded walk to force in Richie Shaffer.
Malm's grand slam came with one out in the fifth inning.
After Willie Argo flied out, Curt Casali singled, Cameron Seitzer and Shaffer walked and Malm homered to right on a 1-2 pitch.
It came on the anniversary of the last Biscuits grand slam and was the 27th in team history. Mark Thomas hit a grand slam in a 9-3 home win over Mobile on April 16, 2013.
Mortensen (2-0) marked his second straight start of five shutout innings. He allowed four hits, walked three and struck out four. Jake Thompson threw three innings of one-hit ball and Santiago Garrido recorded a one-hit ninth.
The Biscuits scored in the fourth when Joey Rickard drew a bases-loaded walk to force in Richie Shaffer.
Malm's grand slam came with one out in the fifth inning.
After Willie Argo flied out, Curt Casali singled, Cameron Seitzer and Shaffer walked and Malm homered to right on a 1-2 pitch.
It came on the anniversary of the last Biscuits grand slam and was the 27th in team history. Mark Thomas hit a grand slam in a 9-3 home win over Mobile on April 16, 2013.
Walk that way: Casali ties Biscuits record
I missed this while typing in the Biscuits' box score from Tuesday's 7-4 loss at Pensacola.
Catcher Curt Casali tied a franchise record with four walks, a feat not seen in butter and blue in almost five years.
Your four-walk men ...
Elijah Dukes, Aug. 12, 2005 at Mobile
Ronnie Merrill, July 9, 2008 vs. Mobile
Gaby Martinez, May 15, 2008 vs. Tennessee
Curt Casali, April 15, 2013 at Pensacola
Catcher Curt Casali tied a franchise record with four walks, a feat not seen in butter and blue in almost five years.
Your four-walk men ...
Elijah Dukes, Aug. 12, 2005 at Mobile
Ronnie Merrill, July 9, 2008 vs. Mobile
Gaby Martinez, May 15, 2008 vs. Tennessee
Curt Casali, April 15, 2013 at Pensacola
Ranking the Rays ... Sands, Mahtook, Casali
For Tuesday ...
1. Jerry Sands, DUR: 3-run HR, solo HR, walk
2. Mikie Mahtook, DUR: 2b, 3b, 2 1b's, run
3. Curt Casali, MGM: 2b, 4 walks, run
4. Robby Price, DUR: 3 1b's, RBI, 2 runs
5. Enny Romero, DUR: 5 innings, run, 4 hits, 3 walks, 5 Ks
1. Jerry Sands, DUR: 3-run HR, solo HR, walk
2. Mikie Mahtook, DUR: 2b, 3b, 2 1b's, run
3. Curt Casali, MGM: 2b, 4 walks, run
4. Robby Price, DUR: 3 1b's, RBI, 2 runs
5. Enny Romero, DUR: 5 innings, run, 4 hits, 3 walks, 5 Ks
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Tuesday's Rays roundup
Bulls 9, Charlotte 2Jerry Sands homered twice, had four RBIs and walked. Mikie Mahtook had a streak of 11 straight hits snapped, though he doubled, tripled, singled twice and scored. Robby Price singled thrice, RBI'd and scored twice.
Stone Crabs 6, Fort Myers 4Kes Carter hit a three-run home run, singled twice and finished with four RBIs. Patrick Leonard homered, tripled and scored twice. Marty Gantt doubled, singled, walked, RBI'd and scored twice.
Kane County 2, Hot Rods 0 (Game 1)
German Marquez gave up an unearned run on two hits in five innings. Colton Reavis gave up an unearned run on two walks in two no-hit innings. Darryl George doubled, singled and stole. Kean Wong singled twice and was nabbed thieving.
Kane County 1, Hot Rods 0 (Game 2)
Blake Snell's 4 1/3 innings included a run on three hits. The entire offense -- Darryl George singled. James Harris walked and stole. Pat Blair walked and (defensively) erred.
Tuesday: Blue Wahoos 7, Biscuits 4
Bryan Anderson's two-run triple highlighted a four-run third inning that helped push the Pensacola Blue Wahoos to a 7-4 victory over the Biscuits on Tuesday.
Pensacola led 7-1 when Montgomery rallied for three runs in the eighth inning.
With one out in the eighth, Curt Casali doubled, Richie Shaffer tripled and Alejandro Segovia singled to make it 7-3. After a pitching change and walks to Jeff Malm and Luke Maile, Jake Hager's flyout brought it Segovia.
The Biscuits took a 1-0 lead in the first. Ryan Brett hit a leadoff double and scored when Malm drew a bases-loaded two-out walk.
But the Wahoos tied it in the bottom of the first. With two outs, Donald Lutz doubled and Steve Selsky singled.
In the fourth, Rey Navarro scored on a Shaffer throwing error to snap the tie before Anderson's two-run triple. Juan Duran singled home Anderson with two outs.
Pensacola starter Daniel Corcino (1-2) stifled the Biscuits for six innings. He gave up one run on two hits with four walks.
The Wahoos showered Biscuits starter Dylan Floro (0-1) for seven runs on 11 hits in 4 1/3 innings. Floro, in 13 2/3 innings this year, has given up 27 hits.
Pensacola led 7-1 when Montgomery rallied for three runs in the eighth inning.
With one out in the eighth, Curt Casali doubled, Richie Shaffer tripled and Alejandro Segovia singled to make it 7-3. After a pitching change and walks to Jeff Malm and Luke Maile, Jake Hager's flyout brought it Segovia.
The Biscuits took a 1-0 lead in the first. Ryan Brett hit a leadoff double and scored when Malm drew a bases-loaded two-out walk.
But the Wahoos tied it in the bottom of the first. With two outs, Donald Lutz doubled and Steve Selsky singled.
In the fourth, Rey Navarro scored on a Shaffer throwing error to snap the tie before Anderson's two-run triple. Juan Duran singled home Anderson with two outs.
Pensacola starter Daniel Corcino (1-2) stifled the Biscuits for six innings. He gave up one run on two hits with four walks.
The Wahoos showered Biscuits starter Dylan Floro (0-1) for seven runs on 11 hits in 4 1/3 innings. Floro, in 13 2/3 innings this year, has given up 27 hits.
Former major leaguer joins Bulls
Former major leaguer Doug Mathis has signed with the Rays and joined Triple-A Durham.
Mathis was with the Texas Rangers in 2008-10 and spent last season at Triple-A New Orleans and Indianapolis.
Mathis was 5-8 with a 3.85 ERA in 24 games (21 starts) for New Orleans. He made two August appearances for Indianapolis.
The 30-year-old right-hander is a 10th-year pro.
Mathis was with the Texas Rangers in 2008-10 and spent last season at Triple-A New Orleans and Indianapolis.
Mathis was 5-8 with a 3.85 ERA in 24 games (21 starts) for New Orleans. He made two August appearances for Indianapolis.
The 30-year-old right-hander is a 10th-year pro.
Ranking the Rays ... Mahtook, Geltz, Sandoval
For Monday ...
1. Mikie Mahtook, DUR: 3b, 4 1b's, RBI, 2 runs
2. Steve Geltz, DUR: 3 no-hit innings, walk, 2 Ks
3. Juan Sandoval, DUR: 3 shutout, 2 hits, 2 walks, K
4. Victor Mateo, MGM: 5 1/3-inning complete game, 3 hits, run, 2 walks, 4 Ks
5. Vince Belnome, DUR: solo HR, 2 walks, 2 runs
1. Mikie Mahtook, DUR: 3b, 4 1b's, RBI, 2 runs
2. Steve Geltz, DUR: 3 no-hit innings, walk, 2 Ks
3. Juan Sandoval, DUR: 3 shutout, 2 hits, 2 walks, K
4. Victor Mateo, MGM: 5 1/3-inning complete game, 3 hits, run, 2 walks, 4 Ks
5. Vince Belnome, DUR: solo HR, 2 walks, 2 runs
Monday, April 14, 2014
Report: Matt Moore to have surgery, miss rest of year
Rays All-Star left-hander Matt Moore, a former Biscuit, will have Tommy John surgery next week and miss the rest of the season, the Tampa Bay Times reports.
Moore left a game at Kansas City on April 7 due to elbow soreness and was diagnosed with a partially torn elbow ligament.
He had hoped to get through the injury, but will have surgery next week. His recovery time will take about a fully year.
Moore left a game at Kansas City on April 7 due to elbow soreness and was diagnosed with a partially torn elbow ligament.
He had hoped to get through the injury, but will have surgery next week. His recovery time will take about a fully year.
Monday's Rays roundup
Bulls 6, Charlotte 0Mikie Mahtook was 5-for-5 with a triple, RBI and two runs scored. Spot starter Juan Sandoval and four relievers combined on a three-hitter. Steve Geltz threw three no-hit innings. Vince Belnome homered, walked twice and scored twice.
Fort Myers 7, Stone Crabs 3
Justin O'Conner hit a three-run home run with two outs in the ninth, singled and picked off a runner. Tommy Coyle singled, doubled and scored.
Kane County at Hot Rods
Rained out.
Shortest games in Biscuits history
If you were curious, tonight was not the swiftest game in Biscuits history.
Here's every game in franchise history that checked in with an official game time of 1 hour, 49 minutes or less.
And, yes, the Aug. 19, 2009 doubleheader at Birmingham and a June 19, 2007 home doubleheader vs. Mobile are notable. However, that 2007 DH started after a 2:46 rain delay.
1:29: June 26, 2006 vs. Mobile (DH), 2-0 win
1:29: May 2, 2004 vs. Jacksonville (DH), 3-2 win
1:33: July 12, 2008 vs. Mobile (DH), 2-1 win
1:34: Tonight at Pensacola (6 innings, rain), 3-1 win
1:35: May 16, 2010 at Birmingham (6), 9-0 loss
1:35: Aug. 20, 2005 at West Tenn (DH), 3-0 loss
1:35: June 19, 2004 at Mobile (6/DH), 8-0 win
1:40: May 11, 2006 at Huntsville (DH), 5-2 win
1:41: July 13, 2013 vs. Pensacola (DH), 6-0 win
1:41: Sept. 5, 2005 at Tennessee (full game), 1-0 loss
1:41: July 1, 2004 at West Tenn (DH), 2-1 loss
1:42: Aug. 19, 2009 at Birmingham (DH2), 7-1 loss
1:42: June 19, 2007 vs. Mobile (DH1), 1-0 win
1:43: April 16, 2011 at Tennessee (DH), 3-1 loss
1:44: May 3, 2010 at West Tenn (DH), 3-1 win
1:45: May 7, 2004 at West Tenn (DH), 6-2 loss
1:46: Aug. 19, 2009 at Birmingham (DH1), 3-1 win
1:48: Aug. 7, 2012 at Jacksonville (8), 4-0 loss
1:48: May 18, 2009 vs. Mississippi (DH), 5-4 win
1:48: July 6, 2006 at Tennessee (full game), 1-0 win1:48: May 8, 2004 at West Tenn (DH), 1-0 loss
1:49: Aug. 28, 2007 vs. Carolina (DH), 2-1 win
1:49: June 19, 2007 vs. Mobile (DH2), 8-0 win
1:49: Aug. 3, 2004 at Carolina (DH), 1-0 loss
Here's every game in franchise history that checked in with an official game time of 1 hour, 49 minutes or less.
And, yes, the Aug. 19, 2009 doubleheader at Birmingham and a June 19, 2007 home doubleheader vs. Mobile are notable. However, that 2007 DH started after a 2:46 rain delay.
1:29: June 26, 2006 vs. Mobile (DH), 2-0 win
1:29: May 2, 2004 vs. Jacksonville (DH), 3-2 win
1:33: July 12, 2008 vs. Mobile (DH), 2-1 win
1:34: Tonight at Pensacola (6 innings, rain), 3-1 win
1:35: May 16, 2010 at Birmingham (6), 9-0 loss
1:35: Aug. 20, 2005 at West Tenn (DH), 3-0 loss
1:35: June 19, 2004 at Mobile (6/DH), 8-0 win
1:40: May 11, 2006 at Huntsville (DH), 5-2 win
1:41: July 13, 2013 vs. Pensacola (DH), 6-0 win
1:41: Sept. 5, 2005 at Tennessee (full game), 1-0 loss
1:41: July 1, 2004 at West Tenn (DH), 2-1 loss
1:42: Aug. 19, 2009 at Birmingham (DH2), 7-1 loss
1:42: June 19, 2007 vs. Mobile (DH1), 1-0 win
1:43: April 16, 2011 at Tennessee (DH), 3-1 loss
1:44: May 3, 2010 at West Tenn (DH), 3-1 win
1:45: May 7, 2004 at West Tenn (DH), 6-2 loss
1:46: Aug. 19, 2009 at Birmingham (DH1), 3-1 win
1:48: Aug. 7, 2012 at Jacksonville (8), 4-0 loss
1:48: May 18, 2009 vs. Mississippi (DH), 5-4 win
1:48: July 6, 2006 at Tennessee (full game), 1-0 win1:48: May 8, 2004 at West Tenn (DH), 1-0 loss
1:49: Aug. 28, 2007 vs. Carolina (DH), 2-1 win
1:49: June 19, 2007 vs. Mobile (DH2), 8-0 win
1:49: Aug. 3, 2004 at Carolina (DH), 1-0 loss
Monday: Biscuits 3, Blue Wahoos 1 (6/rain)
Victor Mateo threw a rain-shortened three-hitter to help the Biscuits take a 3-1 victory at Pensacola on Monday.
Mateo walked two and struck out four before rains halted play with one out in the bottom of the sixth.
It's the right-hander's fourth career complete game. His third was a no-hitter last August for the Biscuits. Nine innings, too.
Montgomery staked Mateo to a 2-0 lead before he took the mound.
Ryan Brett hit a leadoff single and scored on Taylor Motter's double. With one out, Cameron Seitzer singled in Motter. The Biscuits led 3-0 after Richie Shaffer doubled and scored on a wild pitch in the fourth.
Mateo took a no-hitter into the fifth inning.
Pensacola's Juan Silverio hit a leadoff single and Juan Duran doubled him to third. But Joey Rickard threw out Silverio at home on Bryson Smith's flyout before Devin Lohman grounded back to Mateo to end the threat.
In the sixth, Yorman Rodriguez walked and scored on Donald Lutz's triple for the Blue Wahoos before heavy rain stopped play.
Mateo walked two and struck out four before rains halted play with one out in the bottom of the sixth.
It's the right-hander's fourth career complete game. His third was a no-hitter last August for the Biscuits. Nine innings, too.
Montgomery staked Mateo to a 2-0 lead before he took the mound.
Ryan Brett hit a leadoff single and scored on Taylor Motter's double. With one out, Cameron Seitzer singled in Motter. The Biscuits led 3-0 after Richie Shaffer doubled and scored on a wild pitch in the fourth.
Mateo took a no-hitter into the fifth inning.
Pensacola's Juan Silverio hit a leadoff single and Juan Duran doubled him to third. But Joey Rickard threw out Silverio at home on Bryson Smith's flyout before Devin Lohman grounded back to Mateo to end the threat.
In the sixth, Yorman Rodriguez walked and scored on Donald Lutz's triple for the Blue Wahoos before heavy rain stopped play.
Romero might be bound for big leagues
Enny Romero has been scratched from his scheduled start tonight for Triple-A Durham and could be headed for the big leagues.
Tampa Bay's Jake Odorizzi, who is scheduled to start Tuesday at Baltimore, is sick. The Rays sent Odorizzi back to their hotel today before tonight's game with the Orioles, according to reports.
Romero, who made his major league debut last September, has a 3.72 ERA and 12 strikeouts in two starts covering 9 2/3 innings this year.
Tampa Bay's Jake Odorizzi, who is scheduled to start Tuesday at Baltimore, is sick. The Rays sent Odorizzi back to their hotel today before tonight's game with the Orioles, according to reports.
Romero, who made his major league debut last September, has a 3.72 ERA and 12 strikeouts in two starts covering 9 2/3 innings this year.
BayBears, Suns have season's first player of week winners
The Biscuits did their part to help decide the season's first Southern League players of the week.
Mobile right-hander Chase Anderson, who dominated Montgomery on Wednesday, was the pitcher of the week.
Jacksonville first baseman Brady Shoemaker took hitter's honors.
Anderson threw six shutout innings and gave up four hits to the Biscuits. In two starts, he's 2-0 with five hits allowed over 12 shutout innings.
Shoemaker has a .429 average through 10 games. His three doubles and two home runs leave him with a 1.318 OPS. Shoemaker also two RBIs and six runs scored.
Mobile right-hander Chase Anderson, who dominated Montgomery on Wednesday, was the pitcher of the week.
Jacksonville first baseman Brady Shoemaker took hitter's honors.
Anderson threw six shutout innings and gave up four hits to the Biscuits. In two starts, he's 2-0 with five hits allowed over 12 shutout innings.
Shoemaker has a .429 average through 10 games. His three doubles and two home runs leave him with a 1.318 OPS. Shoemaker also two RBIs and six runs scored.
Runion lands on disabled list
Biscuits relief pitcher Sam Runion has gone on the disabled list with a shoulder injury.
The Rays did not reveal the severity of the injury, which could be as "little" as tendinitis or, obviously, much more severe.
Runion, a 25-year-old right-hander, is an eighth-year pro.
The Rays did not reveal the severity of the injury, which could be as "little" as tendinitis or, obviously, much more severe.
Runion, a 25-year-old right-hander, is an eighth-year pro.
Ranking the Rays ... Toles, Karns, Carter
For Sunday ...
1. Andrew Toles, CHA: 2 1b's, walk, 2 steals, 2 runs, outfield assist
2. Nate Karns, DUR: 5 innings, run, 3 hits, 2 walks, 7 Ks, 6 GBO
3. Kes Carter, CHA: 2b, 1b, walk, 2 RBIs, winning run
4. Kevin Brandt, CHA: 3 no-hit innings, walk, K
5. Grayson Garvin, MGM: 3 no-hit innings, walk, 4 Ks
1. Andrew Toles, CHA: 2 1b's, walk, 2 steals, 2 runs, outfield assist
2. Nate Karns, DUR: 5 innings, run, 3 hits, 2 walks, 7 Ks, 6 GBO
3. Kes Carter, CHA: 2b, 1b, walk, 2 RBIs, winning run
4. Kevin Brandt, CHA: 3 no-hit innings, walk, K
5. Grayson Garvin, MGM: 3 no-hit innings, walk, 4 Ks
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Sunday's Rays roundup
Bulls 3, Gwinnett 1Nate Karns gave up one run on three hits over five innings. Justin Christian singled, walked twice, was plunked and stole. Ali Solis singled thrice.
Stone Crabs 8, Palm Beach 7 (14)Maxx Tissenbaum singled home Kes Carter with the winning run. Kevin Brandt three three no-hit innings and Parker Markel two perfect. Josh Sale singled, walked twice, was nabbed thieving, had two RBIs and scored. Tyler Goeddel and Tommy Coyle both singled, walked twice, RBI'd and scored. Goeddel also stole. Andrew Toles singled twice, walked, stole twice, scored twice and had an outfield assist.
Hot Rods at Peoria
Rained out.
Sunday: BayBears 2, Biscuits 1
Jordan Parraz homered to lead off the bottom of the ninth inning and lift the Mobile BayBears to a 2-1 win over the Biscuits on Sunday.
Parraz hit a 1-1 pitch from Biscuits closer Santiago Garrido down the left-field line and give Mobile a series win over Montgomery. The Biscuits suffered only three walk-off losses last year, though two were within a four-day period in August at Tennessee and Jackson.
Biscuits left-hander Grayson Garvin, making his second Double-A start, threw three no-hit innings. He walked one and struck out four.
The BayBears took a 1-0 lead in the fifth against reliever Andrew Bellatti. Parraz walked, went to third on David Peralta's single and scored on a Jon Griffin flyout.
Montgomery tied the game in he seventh inning when Alejandro Segovia singled home Willie Argo, but the Biscuits missed a golden chance in the top of the ninth.
Cameron Seitzer drew a leadoff walk and Riccio Torrez pinch-ran for him. Richie Shaffer singled to put runners on first and second with none out. Argo struck out, Segovia hit a groundout and Jake Hager struck out to end it.
Parraz hit a 1-1 pitch from Biscuits closer Santiago Garrido down the left-field line and give Mobile a series win over Montgomery. The Biscuits suffered only three walk-off losses last year, though two were within a four-day period in August at Tennessee and Jackson.
Biscuits left-hander Grayson Garvin, making his second Double-A start, threw three no-hit innings. He walked one and struck out four.
The BayBears took a 1-0 lead in the fifth against reliever Andrew Bellatti. Parraz walked, went to third on David Peralta's single and scored on a Jon Griffin flyout.
Montgomery tied the game in he seventh inning when Alejandro Segovia singled home Willie Argo, but the Biscuits missed a golden chance in the top of the ninth.
Cameron Seitzer drew a leadoff walk and Riccio Torrez pinch-ran for him. Richie Shaffer singled to put runners on first and second with none out. Argo struck out, Segovia hit a groundout and Jake Hager struck out to end it.
Ranking the Rays ... Kelly, Field, Goetzman
For Saturday ...
1. Merrill Kelly, DUR: 6 innings, run, 5 hits, 2 walks, 3 Ks
2. Johnny Field, BWG: 2 HRs, 2 walks, steal, 4 RBIs, 3 runs
3. Granden Goetzman, BWG: 2 2b's, RBI, run
4. Jerry Sands, DUR: 1b, 2 walks, RBI, run
5. Hector Guevara, CHA: 3 1b's
1. Merrill Kelly, DUR: 6 innings, run, 5 hits, 2 walks, 3 Ks
2. Johnny Field, BWG: 2 HRs, 2 walks, steal, 4 RBIs, 3 runs
3. Granden Goetzman, BWG: 2 2b's, RBI, run
4. Jerry Sands, DUR: 1b, 2 walks, RBI, run
5. Hector Guevara, CHA: 3 1b's
Saturday, April 12, 2014
Saturday's Rays roundup
Bulls 4, Gwinnett 3Merrill Kelly gave up one run on five hits in six innings. Jerry Sands singled, walked twice, RBI'd and scored. Cole Figueroa doubled, singled and scored.
Palm Beach 6, Stone Crabs 2
Hector Guevara singled thrice. Kes Carter doubled, walked and RBI'd.
Peoria 11, Hot Rods 8
Johnny Field homered twice with a blast to lead off the game and a three-run shot in the sixth. He also walked twice, stole and scored a third time. Granden Goetzman doubled twice, RBI'd and scored.
Saturday: BayBears 5, Biscuits 3
A four-run sixth inning lifted the Mobile BayBears to a 5-3 victory over the Biscuits on Saturday.
David Peralta hit a go-ahead, two-run double with two outs in the sixth.
Mobile trailed 3-1 entering the inning. Sean Jamieson scored on a Justin Greene flyout before Jake Lamb singled in Mike Freeman to tie it. After the Biscuits called on Jake Thompson to relieve starter Mike Colla, Garrett Weber singled and Peralta doubled to make it 5-3.
The Biscuits had just one baserunner in their final three at-bats. In the eighth, Willie Argo drew a one-out walk, stole second and went to third on an error. A strikeout and popup ended the threat.
Luke Maile hit his first Double-A home run in the second inning, giving Montgomery a 1-0 lead. Peralta scored on a groundout in the bottom of the second to tie it.
Montgomery rallied in the top of the second for a 3-1 lead. Cameron Seitzer singled home Taylor Motter and Alejandro Segovia singled in Argo.
Colla (0-1) gave up four runs on five hits in 5 2/3 innings. BayBears starter Bryan Woodall, a former Auburn player, allowed three runs in 5 2/3. Woodall retired 10 straight Biscuits at one point.
David Peralta hit a go-ahead, two-run double with two outs in the sixth.
Mobile trailed 3-1 entering the inning. Sean Jamieson scored on a Justin Greene flyout before Jake Lamb singled in Mike Freeman to tie it. After the Biscuits called on Jake Thompson to relieve starter Mike Colla, Garrett Weber singled and Peralta doubled to make it 5-3.
The Biscuits had just one baserunner in their final three at-bats. In the eighth, Willie Argo drew a one-out walk, stole second and went to third on an error. A strikeout and popup ended the threat.
Luke Maile hit his first Double-A home run in the second inning, giving Montgomery a 1-0 lead. Peralta scored on a groundout in the bottom of the second to tie it.
Montgomery rallied in the top of the second for a 3-1 lead. Cameron Seitzer singled home Taylor Motter and Alejandro Segovia singled in Argo.
Colla (0-1) gave up four runs on five hits in 5 2/3 innings. BayBears starter Bryan Woodall, a former Auburn player, allowed three runs in 5 2/3. Woodall retired 10 straight Biscuits at one point.
Ranking the Rays ... Field, Montgomery, Carter
For Friday ...
1. Johnny Field, BWG: 2-run HR, 1b, 2 steals, 2 runs
2. Mike Montgomery, DUR: 5 innings, 1 run, 3 hits, walk, 5 Ks, 6 GBO
3. Kes Carter, CHA: 2b, 3b, 2 RBIs, run, outfield assist
4. Kean Wong, BWG: 1b, walk, steal, 2 runs
5. Jared Mortensen, MGM: 5 shutout, 2 hits, 4 walks, 2 Ks, 7 GBO
And since I see that I forgot Thursday ...
1. Willie Argo, MGM: 1b, 2 walks, run, steal, outfield assist
2. Ray Olmedo, DUR: 2b, 1b, walk, RBI
3. Santiago Garrido, MGM: 2 perfect, 3 Ks
4. Tommy Coyle, CHA: 2b, 1b, walk
5. Marty Gantt, CHA: 2 outfield assists
1. Johnny Field, BWG: 2-run HR, 1b, 2 steals, 2 runs
2. Mike Montgomery, DUR: 5 innings, 1 run, 3 hits, walk, 5 Ks, 6 GBO
3. Kes Carter, CHA: 2b, 3b, 2 RBIs, run, outfield assist
4. Kean Wong, BWG: 1b, walk, steal, 2 runs
5. Jared Mortensen, MGM: 5 shutout, 2 hits, 4 walks, 2 Ks, 7 GBO
And since I see that I forgot Thursday ...
1. Willie Argo, MGM: 1b, 2 walks, run, steal, outfield assist
2. Ray Olmedo, DUR: 2b, 1b, walk, RBI
3. Santiago Garrido, MGM: 2 perfect, 3 Ks
4. Tommy Coyle, CHA: 2b, 1b, walk
5. Marty Gantt, CHA: 2 outfield assists
Friday, April 11, 2014
Friday's Rays roundup
Bulls 5, Gwinnett 1Justin Christian tripled, singled, had two RBIs and scored. Mike Montgomery gave up one run on three hits over five innings.
Stone Crabs 6, Palm Beach 5Kes Carter doubled, tripled, had two RBIs, scored and recorded an outfield assist. Maxx Tissenbaum doubled, walked, had two RBIs and scored.
Peoria 6, Hot Rods 5
Johnny Field singled, homered, stole twice, had two RBIs and scored twice. Kean Wong singled, walked, stole and scored twice. Ian Kendall threw three shutout innings.
Friday: Biscuits 6, BayBears 1
Jared Mortensen threw five shutout innings to help the Biscuits take a 6-1 victory over the Mobile BayBears on Friday.
Mortensen allowed just two hits with four walks and two strikeouts. He recorded seven groundball outs.
Montgomery scored all of its runs in the first three innings.
Cameron Seitzer's two-out single brought home Ryan Brett in the first inning. Brett led off the game with a hit by pitch.
In the second, Riccio Torrez's groundout brought in Willie Argo before Brett tripled in Jeff Malm and scored on a Taylor Motter double. Seitzer led off the third inning with a home run and Malm's two-out single scored Argo.
Mortensen allowed just two hits with four walks and two strikeouts. He recorded seven groundball outs.
Montgomery scored all of its runs in the first three innings.
Cameron Seitzer's two-out single brought home Ryan Brett in the first inning. Brett led off the game with a hit by pitch.
In the second, Riccio Torrez's groundout brought in Willie Argo before Brett tripled in Jeff Malm and scored on a Taylor Motter double. Seitzer led off the third inning with a home run and Malm's two-out single scored Argo.
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Thursday: Biscuits 7, BayBears 4
Alejandro Segovia's two-out, two-run single highlighted a seven-run seventh inning that pushed the Biscuits to a 7-4 victory over the Mobile BayBears on Thursday.
Montgomery, scoreless in its previous 16 innings, sent 11 batters to the plate in the seventh.
Taylor Motter's one-out single brought in Joey Rickard with the first run. Cameron Seitzer was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded to cut Mobile's lead to 4-2. After a strikeout, Segovia tied it with a single to right field before Luke Maile's infield single brought in Seitzer.
Jake Hager, whose single led off the inning, singled home Segovia before Rickard singled in Maile to cap the rally.
Montgomery's bullpen was exemplary.
Relievers Jake Thompson, Matt Ramsey and Santiago Garrido combined for 4 2/3 shutout innings. Thompson (1-0) gave up the only hit against the bullpen. Garrido was perfect over the final two innings for his third save.
The Biscuits finished with 15 hits, all singles. That's the most hits -- without one for extra bases -- in team history. Last season, the Biscuits had just three games of at least 15 hits and sported only two innings of at least seven runs.
Montgomery, scoreless in its previous 16 innings, sent 11 batters to the plate in the seventh.
Taylor Motter's one-out single brought in Joey Rickard with the first run. Cameron Seitzer was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded to cut Mobile's lead to 4-2. After a strikeout, Segovia tied it with a single to right field before Luke Maile's infield single brought in Seitzer.
Jake Hager, whose single led off the inning, singled home Segovia before Rickard singled in Maile to cap the rally.
Montgomery's bullpen was exemplary.
Relievers Jake Thompson, Matt Ramsey and Santiago Garrido combined for 4 2/3 shutout innings. Thompson (1-0) gave up the only hit against the bullpen. Garrido was perfect over the final two innings for his third save.
The Biscuits finished with 15 hits, all singles. That's the most hits -- without one for extra bases -- in team history. Last season, the Biscuits had just three games of at least 15 hits and sported only two innings of at least seven runs.
Thursday's Rays roundup
Bulls 5, Charlotte 4Ray Olmedo doubled, singled, walked, RBI'd and erred. Eddy Rodriguez doubled, RBI'd and scored twice. Cole Figueroa singled, was plunked and RBI'd.
Fort Myers 4, Stone Crabs 1
Marty Gantt threw out runners at third and home. Tommy Coyle doubled and singled. Patrick Leonard knocked in Leonardo Reginatto.
Burlington 5, Hot Rods 4
Andrew Hanse gave up two runs in the eighth. Kean Wong singled thrice and scored. Johnny Field singled, walked and scored.
Ranking the Rays ... Christian, Kiermaier, Toles
For Wednesday ...
1. Jason Christian, DUR: solo HR, 2 walks, 3 runs
2. Kevin Kiermaier, DUR: 3b, 1b, 2 RBIs, 2 runs
3 Andrew Toles, CHA: 3 1b's, 2 walks, steal, CS in DH
4. Enny Romero, DUR: 5 2/3 innings, unearned run, 3 hits, 2 walks, 8 Ks
5. Jerry Sands, DUR: 2 2b's, 1b, 2 RBIs
1. Jason Christian, DUR: solo HR, 2 walks, 3 runs
2. Kevin Kiermaier, DUR: 3b, 1b, 2 RBIs, 2 runs
3 Andrew Toles, CHA: 3 1b's, 2 walks, steal, CS in DH
4. Enny Romero, DUR: 5 2/3 innings, unearned run, 3 hits, 2 walks, 8 Ks
5. Jerry Sands, DUR: 2 2b's, 1b, 2 RBIs
Wednesday, April 09, 2014
Wednesday: BayBears 6, Biscuits 0
Chase Anderson and three relievers combined on a eight-hitter in the Mobile BayBears' 6-0 win over the Biscuits on Wednesday.
Anderson gave up four hits over six innings with two walks and six strikeouts. In two starts, the right-hander (2-0) has 12 shutout innings with five hits allowed and 12 strikeouts.
Patrick Schuster, Willy Paredes and Matt Stites finished the first shutout of the Biscuits since last August. Montgomery failed to score in eight games last year.
Richie Shaffer doubled and singled for the Biscuits, who were 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position and totaled 10 strikeouts.
Anderson gave up four hits over six innings with two walks and six strikeouts. In two starts, the right-hander (2-0) has 12 shutout innings with five hits allowed and 12 strikeouts.
Patrick Schuster, Willy Paredes and Matt Stites finished the first shutout of the Biscuits since last August. Montgomery failed to score in eight games last year.
Richie Shaffer doubled and singled for the Biscuits, who were 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position and totaled 10 strikeouts.
Wednesday's Rays roundup
Bulls 8, Charlotte 1Kevin Kiermaier tripled, singled, had two RBIs and scored twice. Justin Christian homered, walked twice and scored thrice. Vince Belnome walked four times and scored. Enny Romero gave up an unearned run on three hits in 5 2/3 innings. He walked two and whiffed eight.
Fort Myers 4, Stone Crabs 2 (Game 1)
Leonardo Reginatto doubled and singled twice. Tyler Goeddel doubled and singled.
Fort Myers 10, Stone Crabs 6 (Game 2)
Patrick Leonard doubled twice, RBI'd twice and scored twice. Andrew Toles singled twice, walked, stole and was caught thieving. Kevin Brandt threw two no-hit innings. Starter Bruedlin Suero surrendered five earned runs in 1 2/3 innings.
Burlington 5, Hot Rods 2
James Harris homered. Jake Faria gave up three earned runs in four innings.
Mississippi Braves "replace" hitting coach
This is odd this early in a season.
The Mississippi Braves have "replaced" their hitting coach.
Jamie Dismuke is out and John Moses has been promoted from high-Class A Lynchburg. Moses is due to join the Mississippi Braves on Monday.
Carlos Mendez, in his seventh season in the Atlanta organization, will go to Lynchburg.
No word on Dismuke's future or a reason for his move. He was in his first season with Mississippi and was at Triple-A Gwinnett last year.
The Mississippi Braves have "replaced" their hitting coach.
Jamie Dismuke is out and John Moses has been promoted from high-Class A Lynchburg. Moses is due to join the Mississippi Braves on Monday.
Carlos Mendez, in his seventh season in the Atlanta organization, will go to Lynchburg.
No word on Dismuke's future or a reason for his move. He was in his first season with Mississippi and was at Triple-A Gwinnett last year.
Biscuits change game time
Mark your calendars.
The Biscuits have moved their May 6 home game with Jacksonville to a 10:35 a.m. start.
That allows them to make up the Grand Slam School Day festivities that were canceled Monday. Though the Biscuits played that day, the game started after a weather delay at 3 p.m., a bit too late to include school groups.
The Biscuits have moved their May 6 home game with Jacksonville to a 10:35 a.m. start.
That allows them to make up the Grand Slam School Day festivities that were canceled Monday. Though the Biscuits played that day, the game started after a weather delay at 3 p.m., a bit too late to include school groups.
Some late-morning reading
Since there are no Biscuits stories to link today, nor a Ranking the Rays since only two minor league teams played, here are some other worthy stories to read, from elsewhere ...
L.A. Times: Angels reflect on Nick Adenhart
It's the fifth anniversary of Adenhart's death. Adenhart was a close friend of 2012 Biscuits outfielder Brad Coon. (Here's my 2012 story on Coon and Adenhart, though it's now in a paid archive.)
USA Today: 40 years later, Hank Aaron's grace a beauty to behold
It amazes me what Aaron endured without developing a permanent bitterness. Same goes for Nelson Mandela.
Yahoo: 'Major League' turns 25 -- here are 15 things you didn't know about the movie
Yes, another anniversary, though with a happier tone.
L.A. Times: Angels reflect on Nick Adenhart
It's the fifth anniversary of Adenhart's death. Adenhart was a close friend of 2012 Biscuits outfielder Brad Coon. (Here's my 2012 story on Coon and Adenhart, though it's now in a paid archive.)
USA Today: 40 years later, Hank Aaron's grace a beauty to behold
It amazes me what Aaron endured without developing a permanent bitterness. Same goes for Nelson Mandela.
Yahoo: 'Major League' turns 25 -- here are 15 things you didn't know about the movie
Yes, another anniversary, though with a happier tone.
Tuesday, April 08, 2014
Tuesday's Rays roundup
Charlotte 8, Bulls 2
Justin Christian hit a two-run double in the third. Kevin Kiermaier singled, scored and erred.
Stone Crabs at Fort Myers
Rained out.
Burlington 3, Hot Rods 0
Granden Goetzman and Kean Wong singled. Goetzman also walked and took a plunking. Johnny Field also walked and was HBP'd.
Justin Christian hit a two-run double in the third. Kevin Kiermaier singled, scored and erred.
Stone Crabs at Fort Myers
Rained out.
Burlington 3, Hot Rods 0
Granden Goetzman and Kean Wong singled. Goetzman also walked and took a plunking. Johnny Field also walked and was HBP'd.
Acosta activated by Bulls
Catcher Mayo Acosta has been activated at Triple-A Durham. The Bulls lost reliever Jeff Beliveau to Tampa Bay after Rays starter Matt Moore went down with an elbow injury Monday night.
Morning reading
Let's delve more into Taylor Motter's steal of home, a first for the Biscuits since 2009. Also, before Monday's doubleheader, catcher Luke Maile was excited over his Kentucky Wildcats, who lost Monday night in the NCAA basketball finals.
No Ranking the Rays today since the required quorum didn't play Monday night. If you don't remember, three of the four full-season teams must play before we do the daily rankings.
No Ranking the Rays today since the required quorum didn't play Monday night. If you don't remember, three of the four full-season teams must play before we do the daily rankings.
Monday, April 07, 2014
Monday's Rays roundup
Bulls 8, Charlotte 1Jerry Sands homered, doubled, had two RBIs and scored twice. Justin Christian homered, doubled and scored twice. Erik Bedard gave up one run in four innings. Merrill Kelly threw three shutout innings for the win.
Stone Crabs
Off.
Hot Rods
Off.
VIDEO: Biscuits OF Taylor Motter
Biscuits outfielder Taylor Motter stole home in the opening game of Monday's doubleheader with Birmingham. He's the first Biscuit to steal home since April 2009.
Monday: Barons 8, Biscuits 5 (Game 2)
Josh Richmond hit RBI doubles in the sixth and seventh innings, helping the Birmingham Barons pull away for an 8-5 win over the Biscuits in the second game of Monday's doubleheader.
Barons starter Nick McCully worked five shutout innings, allowing two hits and throwing 40 of his 59 pitches for strikes. After Birmingham scored three times in the sixth and four in the seventh, the Barons led 8-0.
Montgomery rallied in the bottom of the seventh, highlighted by Riccio Torrez's two-run triple. The Biscuits had the potential tying run at the plate with one out before Cameron Seitzer grounded out and Luke Maile flied out.
Barons left fielder Michael Earley homered in the first inning off Montgomery's Grayson Garvin, who was making his Double-A debut. Garvin, on a strict pitch count due to 2012 elbow surgery, threw just three innings and left facing a 1-0 deficit.
Barons starter Nick McCully worked five shutout innings, allowing two hits and throwing 40 of his 59 pitches for strikes. After Birmingham scored three times in the sixth and four in the seventh, the Barons led 8-0.
Montgomery rallied in the bottom of the seventh, highlighted by Riccio Torrez's two-run triple. The Biscuits had the potential tying run at the plate with one out before Cameron Seitzer grounded out and Luke Maile flied out.
Barons left fielder Michael Earley homered in the first inning off Montgomery's Grayson Garvin, who was making his Double-A debut. Garvin, on a strict pitch count due to 2012 elbow surgery, threw just three innings and left facing a 1-0 deficit.
Monday's Game 2 lineups: Barons at Biscuits
Lineups for Game 2 of Monday's Biscuits-Barons doubleheader ...
BISCUITSRyan Brett 2b
Taylor Motter rf
Curt Casali c
Cameron Seitzer 1b (left)
Luke Maile dh
Jeff Malm lf (left)
Riccio Torrez 3b
Jake Hager ss
Joey Rickard cf
Grayson Garvon lhp
BARONS
Micah Johnson 2b
Michael Earley lf
Trayce Thompson cf
Rangel Ravelo dh
Josh Richmond rf
Chris Curley 3b
Miguel Gonzalez c
Jeremy Farrell 1b
Dan Wagner ss
Nick kMcCully rhp
BISCUITSRyan Brett 2b
Taylor Motter rf
Curt Casali c
Cameron Seitzer 1b (left)
Luke Maile dh
Jeff Malm lf (left)
Riccio Torrez 3b
Jake Hager ss
Joey Rickard cf
Grayson Garvon lhp
BARONS
Micah Johnson 2b
Michael Earley lf
Trayce Thompson cf
Rangel Ravelo dh
Josh Richmond rf
Chris Curley 3b
Miguel Gonzalez c
Jeremy Farrell 1b
Dan Wagner ss
Nick kMcCully rhp
Monday: Biscuits 4, Barons 3 (Game 1)
Richie Shaffer homered and the Biscuits stole home for the first time in five years, beating the Birmingham Barons 4-3 in the opening game of Monday's doubleheader.
The finale will begin around 5:30 p.m.
Montgomery scored all of its runs in the third inning.
Taylor Motter, whose triple brought in Jake Hager with the first run, stole home as part of a double-steal to make it 2-0. Cameron Seitzer drew a two-out walk before he and Motter moved up.
The steal of home was the first for the Biscuits since April 15, 2009, when Desmond Jennings did it, also part of a first-and-third double-steal.
Shaffer, at bat for the double-steal, hit a two-run home run to left-center field, giving the Biscuits a 4-0 lead.
Birmingham answered with three runs in the fourth. Josh Richmond had an RBI single and Chris Curley a two-run double.
The finale will begin around 5:30 p.m.
Montgomery scored all of its runs in the third inning.
Taylor Motter, whose triple brought in Jake Hager with the first run, stole home as part of a double-steal to make it 2-0. Cameron Seitzer drew a two-out walk before he and Motter moved up.
The steal of home was the first for the Biscuits since April 15, 2009, when Desmond Jennings did it, also part of a first-and-third double-steal.
Shaffer, at bat for the double-steal, hit a two-run home run to left-center field, giving the Biscuits a 4-0 lead.
Birmingham answered with three runs in the fourth. Josh Richmond had an RBI single and Chris Curley a two-run double.
Monday's Game 1 lineups: Barons at Biscuits
The Barons make their final scheduled appearance of the season at Riverwalk Stadium with a doubleheader today against the Biscuits. First pitch now scheduled for 3:05 p.m.
Game 1 lineups ...
BISCUITSRyan Brett 2b
Taylor Motter rf
Willie Argo cf
Cameron Seitzer 1b (left)
Richie Shaffer 3b
Alejandro Segovia dh
Jeff Malm lf
Luke Maile c
Jake Hager ss
Michael Colla rhp
BARONS
Micah Johnson 2b (left)
Jaime Pedroza ss (switch)
Trayce Thompson cf
Kevan Smith c
Rangel Ravelo dh
Josh Richmond lf
Chris Curley 3b
Christian Marrero 1b (left)
Keenyn Walker rf (switch)
Terry Doyle rhp
Game 1 lineups ...
BISCUITSRyan Brett 2b
Taylor Motter rf
Willie Argo cf
Cameron Seitzer 1b (left)
Richie Shaffer 3b
Alejandro Segovia dh
Jeff Malm lf
Luke Maile c
Jake Hager ss
Michael Colla rhp
BARONS
Micah Johnson 2b (left)
Jaime Pedroza ss (switch)
Trayce Thompson cf
Kevan Smith c
Rangel Ravelo dh
Josh Richmond lf
Chris Curley 3b
Christian Marrero 1b (left)
Keenyn Walker rf (switch)
Terry Doyle rhp
Biscuits-Barons DH to begin at 3:05 p.m.
The Biscuits have delayed today's doubleheader against the Birmingham Barons until a 3:05 p.m. start.
For any schools who bought tickets for the Grand Slam School Day and its usual 10:35 a.m. start, you should have been notified Sunday night that the Grand Slam School Day festivities were already canceled. Any tickets -- and those of parents, too -- can be exchanged. Call the Biscuits.
(I didn't hear of the delay until I arrived at the stadium ... about 10:33 a.m.)
For any schools who bought tickets for the Grand Slam School Day and its usual 10:35 a.m. start, you should have been notified Sunday night that the Grand Slam School Day festivities were already canceled. Any tickets -- and those of parents, too -- can be exchanged. Call the Biscuits.
(I didn't hear of the delay until I arrived at the stadium ... about 10:33 a.m.)
Ranking the Rays ... Jensen, Betemit, Goetzman
For Sunday ...
1. Marcus Jensen, CHA: 3 no-hit innings, walk, K
2. Wilson Betemit, DUR: 2-run HR, 3 walks, 2 runs
3. Granden Goetzman, BWG: 2 2b's, 2 1b's, steal, CS, run
4. Mike Montgomery, DUR: 5 shutout, 3 hits, 3 walks, 7 Ks
5. German Marquez, BWG: 4 1/3 innings, 1 run, 2 hits, walk, 3 Ks
1. Marcus Jensen, CHA: 3 no-hit innings, walk, K
2. Wilson Betemit, DUR: 2-run HR, 3 walks, 2 runs
3. Granden Goetzman, BWG: 2 2b's, 2 1b's, steal, CS, run
4. Mike Montgomery, DUR: 5 shutout, 3 hits, 3 walks, 7 Ks
5. German Marquez, BWG: 4 1/3 innings, 1 run, 2 hits, walk, 3 Ks
Sunday, April 06, 2014
Sunday's Rays roundup
Bulls 8, Gwinnett 1Wilson Betemit hit a two-run home run, walked thrice and scored twice. Mike Montgomery threw five shutout innings and Brad Boxberger two no-hit frames.
Bradenton 11, Stone Crabs 3
Marcus Jensen threw three no-hit innings. Andrew Toles singled, walked and was caught stealing. Leonardo Reginatto walked twice. Patrick Leonard homered.
South Bend 7, Hot Rods 5 (10)
Granden Goetzman doubled twice, singled twice, stole, was caught thieving and scored. Armando Araiza singled twice, walked and RBI'd. Pat Blair doubled, walked and scored twice.
Bang: Biscuits-Barons rained out
Today's Biscuits-Barons game has been rained out and the teams will finish their series with a doubleheader that begins at 10:35 a.m. Monday.
Michael Colla will start the opener and Grayson Garvin the finale for Montgomery. Birmingham goes with Nick McCully and Terry Doyle.
Michael Colla will start the opener and Grayson Garvin the finale for Montgomery. Birmingham goes with Nick McCully and Terry Doyle.
Ranking the Rays ... Casali, Kirsch, Argo
For Saturday ...
1. Curt Casali, MGM: reached base 6 times, 4 RBIs, 2 runs
2. Chris Kirsch, BWG: 5 innings, 1 run, 1 hit, walk, 6 Ks
3. Willie Argo, MGM: 1b, 2 walks, 3 runs
4. Kes Carter, CHA: 2 walks, steal, run
5. Luis Cabrera, BWG: 3 innings, 1 run, 1 hit, K
1. Curt Casali, MGM: reached base 6 times, 4 RBIs, 2 runs
2. Chris Kirsch, BWG: 5 innings, 1 run, 1 hit, walk, 6 Ks
3. Willie Argo, MGM: 1b, 2 walks, 3 runs
4. Kes Carter, CHA: 2 walks, steal, run
5. Luis Cabrera, BWG: 3 innings, 1 run, 1 hit, K
Morning reading
Biscuits catcher Luke Bailey shed his mustache Saturday for a good reason, he says in leading off today's notebook. Montgomery's win Saturday night over Birmingham took so long that a quoteless game story was in order.
Saturday, April 05, 2014
Saturday: Biscuits 14, Barons 7
Catcher Curt Casali reached base six times and knocked in four runs to lead the Biscuits in a 14-7 win over the Birmingham Barons on Saturday.
Casali doubled twice, singled, walked and was hit twice by pitches. He also scored two runs.
Cameron Seitzer added three RBIs for Montgomery, which had every starter score at least once. Every starter but left fielder Willie Argo had an RBI. Argo scored three runs.
The game took 3 hours, 46 minutes, which ties for the second-longest nine-inning game in Biscuits history.
Casali doubled twice, singled, walked and was hit twice by pitches. He also scored two runs.
Cameron Seitzer added three RBIs for Montgomery, which had every starter score at least once. Every starter but left fielder Willie Argo had an RBI. Argo scored three runs.
The game took 3 hours, 46 minutes, which ties for the second-longest nine-inning game in Biscuits history.
Saturday's Rays roundup
Gwinnett 4, Bulls 1
Jerry Sands doubled, walked and scored. Jeff Beliveau threw two hitless innings.
Bradenton 4, Stone Crabs 2
Kes Carter walked twice, stole and scored. Andrew Toles stole twice, scored and erred. Marty Gantt singled, walked, was plunked and RBI'd.
South Bend 2, Hot Rods 0
Chris Kirsch gave up one run on one hit and a walk in five innings. The Hot Rods had three hits and one walk.
Jerry Sands doubled, walked and scored. Jeff Beliveau threw two hitless innings.
Bradenton 4, Stone Crabs 2
Kes Carter walked twice, stole and scored. Andrew Toles stole twice, scored and erred. Marty Gantt singled, walked, was plunked and RBI'd.
South Bend 2, Hot Rods 0
Chris Kirsch gave up one run on one hit and a walk in five innings. The Hot Rods had three hits and one walk.
Longest 9-inning games in Biscuits history
UPDATE: Tonight's game checked in at a taut 3 hours, 46 minutes.
Since the Biscuits and Birmingham Barons took almost two hours to play the first three innings Saturday, I figured I'd go ahead and prepare.
Here are the longest 9-inning games in Biscuits history ...
3:50: Aug. 6, 2011, a 12-7 home loss to Mobile
3:46: June 14, 2012, a 9-7 win at Huntsville
3:44: June 11, 2006, a 4-3 win at Carolina
Since the Biscuits and Birmingham Barons took almost two hours to play the first three innings Saturday, I figured I'd go ahead and prepare.
Here are the longest 9-inning games in Biscuits history ...
3:50: Aug. 6, 2011, a 12-7 home loss to Mobile
3:46: June 14, 2012, a 9-7 win at Huntsville
3:44: June 11, 2006, a 4-3 win at Carolina
Saturday's lineups: Biscuits vs. Barons
Riccio Torrez, after making his pro debut at shortstop Friday, is tackling second base for the first time today. He's hitting seventh for the third game of Montgomery's home series with Birmingham.
Rehabbing major leaguer Gordon Beckham isn't in Birmingham's lineup for a second straight night.
BISCUITS
Taylor Motter rf
Willie Argo lf
Curt Casali c
Cameron Seitzer 1b (left)
Richie Shaffer 3b
Alejandro Segovia dh
Riccio Torrez 2b
Jake Hager ss
Joey Rickard cf
Jared Mortensen rhp
BARONS
Micah Johnson 2b (left)
Jaime Pedroza ss (switch)
Trayce Thompson cf
Christian Marrero 1b (left)
Josh Richmond lf
Michael Earley dh
Jeremy Farrell 3b
Miguel Gonzalez c
Keenyn Walker rf (switch)
Scott Snodgress lhp
Rehabbing major leaguer Gordon Beckham isn't in Birmingham's lineup for a second straight night.
BISCUITS
Taylor Motter rf
Willie Argo lf
Curt Casali c
Cameron Seitzer 1b (left)
Richie Shaffer 3b
Alejandro Segovia dh
Riccio Torrez 2b
Jake Hager ss
Joey Rickard cf
Jared Mortensen rhp
BARONS
Micah Johnson 2b (left)
Jaime Pedroza ss (switch)
Trayce Thompson cf
Christian Marrero 1b (left)
Josh Richmond lf
Michael Earley dh
Jeremy Farrell 3b
Miguel Gonzalez c
Keenyn Walker rf (switch)
Scott Snodgress lhp
Ranking the Rays ... Field, Kiermaier, Figueroa
For Friday ...
1. Johnny Field, BWG: 3b, 1b, walk, 2 runs, outfield assist
2. Kevin Kiermaier, DUR: solo HR, 2 1b's, 3 runs, outfield assist
3. Cole Figueroa, DUR: 2 1b's, 3 walks, error
4. Granden Goetzman, BWG: 2 3b's, 2 RBIs, 2 runs
5. Andrew Hanse, BWG: 3 shutout innings, hit, 4 Ks
1. Johnny Field, BWG: 3b, 1b, walk, 2 runs, outfield assist
2. Kevin Kiermaier, DUR: solo HR, 2 1b's, 3 runs, outfield assist
3. Cole Figueroa, DUR: 2 1b's, 3 walks, error
4. Granden Goetzman, BWG: 2 3b's, 2 RBIs, 2 runs
5. Andrew Hanse, BWG: 3 shutout innings, hit, 4 Ks
Morning reading
The Biscuits have a new rival: cornbread. The Alabama House of Representatives recently voted to name cornbread the state's official bread, much to the chagrin of the Biscuits. Further notes on Riccio Torrez playing shortstop and Luke Maile's support of the Kentucky Wildcats.
Oh, Friday's game? The Biscuits rallied for three runs in the seventh to beat Birmingham.
Oh, Friday's game? The Biscuits rallied for three runs in the seventh to beat Birmingham.
Friday, April 04, 2014
Friday's Rays roundup
Gwinnett 12, Bulls 7
Cole Figueroa singled twice and walked thrice. Kevin Kiermaier hit a solo home run, singled twice and scored thrice. Ali Solis singled twice, was plunked, had three RBIs and scored twice.
Bradenton 9, Stone Crabs 1
Maxx Tissenbaum singled and scored. Josh Sale singled and RBI'd. The Crabs committed five errors. Otherwise, well, to summarize.
Hot Rods 5, South Bend 4
Granden Goetzman hit an RBI triple and scored on a wild pitch in the ninth. Goetzman earlier had another RBI triple and scored. Brad Schreiber gave up three runs in the top of the ninth. Johnny Field tripled, singled, walked, scored twice and had an outfield assist. Jordan Harrison's five innings included just one run on two hits. Andrew Hanse's three shutout innings had just one hit.
Cole Figueroa singled twice and walked thrice. Kevin Kiermaier hit a solo home run, singled twice and scored thrice. Ali Solis singled twice, was plunked, had three RBIs and scored twice.
Bradenton 9, Stone Crabs 1
Maxx Tissenbaum singled and scored. Josh Sale singled and RBI'd. The Crabs committed five errors. Otherwise, well, to summarize.
Hot Rods 5, South Bend 4Granden Goetzman hit an RBI triple and scored on a wild pitch in the ninth. Goetzman earlier had another RBI triple and scored. Brad Schreiber gave up three runs in the top of the ninth. Johnny Field tripled, singled, walked, scored twice and had an outfield assist. Jordan Harrison's five innings included just one run on two hits. Andrew Hanse's three shutout innings had just one hit.
Friday: Biscuits 5, Barons 4
Richie Shaffer's leadoff home run sparked a three-run seventh inning that lifted the Biscuits to a 5-4 win over the Birmingham Barons on Friday.
After Barons starter Myles Jaye retired the final 10 hitters he faced, Shaffer greeted reliever Nestor Molina with a homer over the 395-foot mark in left-center field. It also cleared an 18-foot wall.
Taylor Motter's two-run double put Montgomery ahead. With one out, Riccio Torrez singled and Luke Maile doubled to precede Motter's hit.
Biscuits reliever Matt Lollis threw 1 1/3 hitless innings for the win. Reliever Jimmy Patterson's 1 2/3 innings before Lollis were marred by just an infield single. Santiago Garrido worked a one-hit ninth for the save.
After Barons starter Myles Jaye retired the final 10 hitters he faced, Shaffer greeted reliever Nestor Molina with a homer over the 395-foot mark in left-center field. It also cleared an 18-foot wall.
Taylor Motter's two-run double put Montgomery ahead. With one out, Riccio Torrez singled and Luke Maile doubled to precede Motter's hit.
Biscuits reliever Matt Lollis threw 1 1/3 hitless innings for the win. Reliever Jimmy Patterson's 1 2/3 innings before Lollis were marred by just an infield single. Santiago Garrido worked a one-hit ninth for the save.
Friday's lineups: Biscuits vs. Barons
Riccio Torrez plays shortstop for the first time in his professional career tonight when the Biscuits host the Birmingham Barons, rain permitting. Torrez has played only third base since being taken in the fourth round of the 2011 draft.
Chicago White Sox second baseman Gordon Beckham is in the field for the first time in his rehab stay with the Barons.
6:15: Beckham scratched. Reason not announced.
BISCUITS
Ryan Brett 2b
Willie Argo lf
Curt Casali dh
Richie Shaffer 3b
Alejandro Segovia 1b
Riccio Torrez ss
Luke Maile c
Taylor Motter rf
Joey Rickard cf
Dylan Floro rhp
BARONS
Micah Johnson dh (left)
Gordon Beckham 2b Jaime Pedroza ss (switch)
Trayce Thompson cf
Kevin Smith c
Christian Marrero 1b (left)
Josh Richmond lf
Chris Curley 3b
Jaime Pedroza ss (switch) Michael Earley dh
Keenyn Walker rf (switch)
Miles Jaye rhp
Chicago White Sox second baseman Gordon Beckham is in the field for the first time in his rehab stay with the Barons.
6:15: Beckham scratched. Reason not announced.
BISCUITS
Ryan Brett 2b
Willie Argo lf
Curt Casali dh
Richie Shaffer 3b
Alejandro Segovia 1b
Riccio Torrez ss
Luke Maile c
Taylor Motter rf
Joey Rickard cf
Dylan Floro rhp
BARONS
Micah Johnson dh (left)
Trayce Thompson cf
Kevin Smith c
Christian Marrero 1b (left)
Josh Richmond lf
Chris Curley 3b
Keenyn Walker rf (switch)
Miles Jaye rhp
South Bend has Biscuits beat in Opening Day skid
The Montgomery Biscuits' Opening Day misery isn't the worst in the minor leagues.
The Biscuits have lost seven straight season openers, but the South Bend Silver Hawks in the Class A Midwest League have them beat.
South Bend has lost eight straight on Opening Day.
Triple-A Norfolk has matched the Biscuits with seven straight losses, while Triple-A Indianapolis could get there today. The Indians' game Thursday was rained out.
UPDATE: Indianapolis won its opener.
The Biscuits have lost seven straight season openers, but the South Bend Silver Hawks in the Class A Midwest League have them beat.
South Bend has lost eight straight on Opening Day.
Triple-A Norfolk has matched the Biscuits with seven straight losses, while Triple-A Indianapolis could get there today. The Indians' game Thursday was rained out.
UPDATE: Indianapolis won its opener.
Ranking the Rays ... Kelly, Sale, Sands
Ranking the best minor league efforts from Thursday's games involving Rays affiliates ...
1. Merrill Kelly, DUR: 3 shutout innings, 2 hits, walk
2. Josh Sale, CHA: 2b, 1b, 3 RBIs, run
3. Jerry Sands, DUR: HR, 2 1b's, walk, 3 runs, error
4. Aaron Griffin, BWG: 2 2/3 shutout innings, 1 hit, 1 walk
5. Cole Figueroa, DUR: 2 2b's, walk, 2 runs
1. Merrill Kelly, DUR: 3 shutout innings, 2 hits, walk
2. Josh Sale, CHA: 2b, 1b, 3 RBIs, run
3. Jerry Sands, DUR: HR, 2 1b's, walk, 3 runs, error
4. Aaron Griffin, BWG: 2 2/3 shutout innings, 1 hit, 1 walk
5. Cole Figueroa, DUR: 2 2b's, walk, 2 runs
Morning reading
Willie Argo had the offensive and defensive highlights for the Biscuits in Thursday's loss to Birmingham.
Also, the Barons have major leaguer Gordon Beckham around for a rehab stay and former Biscuits reliever Frank De Los Santos is in their bullpen. Here's something on Birmingham's Trayce Thompson, whose family is known for basketball. Plus, a photo gallery from the game.
Also, the Barons have major leaguer Gordon Beckham around for a rehab stay and former Biscuits reliever Frank De Los Santos is in their bullpen. Here's something on Birmingham's Trayce Thompson, whose family is known for basketball. Plus, a photo gallery from the game.
Thursday, April 03, 2014
Thursday: Barons 9, Biscuits 2
Jaime Pedroza homered twice to lead the Birmingham Barons in a 9-2 season-opening win over the Biscuits on Thursday.
Pedroza hit one-out solo home runs in the second and fourth innings, marking his first two-homer game since 2007.
Micah Johnson, who hit the first pitch of the game for a triple and scored on an error, also homered in the second inning. Kevan Smith scored twice.
Willie Argo scored a first-inning run and homered with two outs in the fifth for the Biscuits, who have lost seven straight season openers. In the first, he walked and scored on a Richie Shaffer groundball.
Pedroza hit one-out solo home runs in the second and fourth innings, marking his first two-homer game since 2007.
Micah Johnson, who hit the first pitch of the game for a triple and scored on an error, also homered in the second inning. Kevan Smith scored twice.
Willie Argo scored a first-inning run and homered with two outs in the fifth for the Biscuits, who have lost seven straight season openers. In the first, he walked and scored on a Richie Shaffer groundball.
Thursday's Rays roundup
Bulls 7, Gwinnett 6Jerry Sands homered, singled twice, walked and scored three times. Cole Figueroa doubled twice, walked and scored twice. Merrill Kelly threw three shutout innings in relief of starter Nathan Kerns, who gave up five earned runs and walked seven in 2 2/3 innings.
Stone Crabs 5, Bradenton 4Maxx Tissenbaum singled and scored the go-ahead run in the eighth. Josh Sale doubled, singled, had three RBIs and scored. Kes Carter walked twice, scored and threw out a runner at second.
Hot Rods 5, South Bend 2Oscar Hernandez hit a third-inning grand slam. Granden Goetzman singled twice, stole and scored twice. Jake Faria allowed an unearned run on three hits with no walks in 4 1/3 innings. Aaron Griffin's 2 2/3 shutout innings featured just one hit.
VIDEO: Biscuits relievers sign pregame autographs
Biscuits relievers Jimmy Patterson and Sam Runion welcome fans to Riverwalk Stadium and sign autographs before Thursday's season opener against the Birmingham Barons.
VIDEO: Chicago White Sox 2B Gordon Beckham
Chicago White Sox second baseman Gordon Beckham is with the Birmingham Barons on a rehab assignment for the season-opening series with the Biscuits. He suffered an oblique injury in spring training.
Beckham (Gordon Beckham) in lineup for Biscuits-Barons
Chicago White Sox second baseman Gordon Beckham is suiting up for the Birmingham Barons tonight.
Beckham, a former University of Georgia All-American and a first-round draft pick, is making a rehab start with the Barons. He'll be the designated hitter tonight against the Biscuits.
Beckham is on Chicago's disabled list with a strained left oblique suffered in spring training. He's entering his sixth major league season.
Beckham, a former University of Georgia All-American and a first-round draft pick, is making a rehab start with the Barons. He'll be the designated hitter tonight against the Biscuits.
Beckham is on Chicago's disabled list with a strained left oblique suffered in spring training. He's entering his sixth major league season.
Thursday's lineups: Barons at Biscuits
Six players making their Double-A debut are in Montgomery's lineup tonight when the Biscuits open the season against the dastardly Birmingham Barons.
Only first baseman Cameron Seitzer was on the Opening Day roster last year, while second baseman Ryan Brett and catcher Curt Casali joined the Biscuits late last season.
Everyone else is seeing Double-A for the first time.
BISCUITS
Ryan Brett 2b
Willie Argo cf
Curt Casali c
Cameron seitzer 1b (left)
Richie Shaffer 3b
Jeff Malm lf
Luke Maile dh
Jake Hager ss
Taylor Motter rf
Victor Mateo rhp
BARONS
Micah Johnson 2b (left)
Gordon Beckham dh
Trayce Thompson cf
Kevin Smith c
Rangel Ravelo 1b
Josh Richmond lf
Chris Curley 3b
Jaime Pedroza ss (switch)
Keenyn Walker rf (switch)
Chris Beck rhp
Only first baseman Cameron Seitzer was on the Opening Day roster last year, while second baseman Ryan Brett and catcher Curt Casali joined the Biscuits late last season.
Everyone else is seeing Double-A for the first time.
BISCUITS
Ryan Brett 2b
Willie Argo cf
Curt Casali c
Cameron seitzer 1b (left)
Richie Shaffer 3b
Jeff Malm lf
Luke Maile dh
Jake Hager ss
Taylor Motter rf
Victor Mateo rhp
BARONS
Micah Johnson 2b (left)
Gordon Beckham dh
Trayce Thompson cf
Kevin Smith c
Rangel Ravelo 1b
Josh Richmond lf
Chris Curley 3b
Jaime Pedroza ss (switch)
Keenyn Walker rf (switch)
Chris Beck rhp
Late-morning reading list
Curt Casali and Grayson Garvin have been reunited with the Biscuits. The two were Vanderbilt stars when they were drafted in 2011 and have remained close friends. (You can probably guess which is known as "Mr. Clean" and which is "The Hoff.")
FYI, Casali and Garvin are both Vanderbilt graduates. Casali said he's only used his communications degree when "talking to you guys (the media)." Garvin's degree is in business psychology, which has helped in an offseason job with some financial advisors in Nashville. "I really haven't had to use it yet," Garvin said. "Thankfully."
Also, check out the annual player capsules that, as always, include that most personal of questions (at least in Alabama): What's your favorite college football team?
FYI, Casali and Garvin are both Vanderbilt graduates. Casali said he's only used his communications degree when "talking to you guys (the media)." Garvin's degree is in business psychology, which has helped in an offseason job with some financial advisors in Nashville. "I really haven't had to use it yet," Garvin said. "Thankfully."
Also, check out the annual player capsules that, as always, include that most personal of questions (at least in Alabama): What's your favorite college football team?
Wednesday, April 02, 2014
Reports: Archer, Rays to announce 6-year, $25.5 million deal
Chris Archer and the Rays have agreed to a six-year $25.5 million contract, according to multiple reports.
It also includes club options that could push the contract to $5 million. The options call for $9 million in 2020 and $11 million for 2021.
The Rays are scheduled to announce the deal at 11 a.m. today.
Archer, who played for the Biscuits in 2011, was third in the American League rookie of the year voting last year. The right-handed pitcher was 9-7 with a 3.22 ERA for Tampa Bay last season. His ERA was the third lowest by an AL rookie with at least 20 starts over the last 20 years.
It also includes club options that could push the contract to $5 million. The options call for $9 million in 2020 and $11 million for 2021.
The Rays are scheduled to announce the deal at 11 a.m. today.
Archer, who played for the Biscuits in 2011, was third in the American League rookie of the year voting last year. The right-handed pitcher was 9-7 with a 3.22 ERA for Tampa Bay last season. His ERA was the third lowest by an AL rookie with at least 20 starts over the last 20 years.
Breaking down Rays organization by draft, etc.
Here's the annual breakdown of the Tampa Bay Rays and their four full-season minor league affiliates by how each player was acquired. (This doesn't include anyone headed to extended spring training.)
2004 draft
Tampa Bay: P Jake McGee (5th round)
2005 draft
Tampa Bay DL: P Jeremy Hellickson (4)
2006 draft
Tampa Bay: IF Evan Longoria (1), P Alex Cobb (4), OF Desmond Jennings (10)
2007 draft
Tampa Bay: P David Price (1), P Matt Moore (8)
2008 draft
Tampa Bay DL: IF Tim Beckham (1)
Montgomery DL: OF Ty Morrison (4)
2009 draft
Montgomery: IF Jeff Malm (5), P Andrew Bellatti (12), P Matt Ramsey (21)
Montgomery DL: P Jacob Partridge (18)
Montgomery inactive: C Luke Bailey (4)
Charlotte: P Marcus Jensen (30)
2010 draft
Durham: P Merrill Kelly (8), IF Robby Price (13), P C.J, Riefenhauser (20), P Adam Liberatore (21), OF Kevin Kiermaier (31)
Montgomery: P Jake Thompson (2), IF Ryan Brett (3), P Jimmy Patterson (18)
Charlotte: C Justin O'Conner (1), OF Josh Sale (1), C Jake DePew (9), P Parker Markel (39)
Bowling Green: P Ian Kendall (5)
Bowling Green DL: P Brandon Henderson (15)
2011 draft
Durham: OF Mikie Mahtook (1)
Montgomery: IF Jake Hager (1), P Grayson Garvin (supplemental 1st)
Montgomery DL: P Lenny Linsky (2), IF Riccio Torrez (4), IF Cameron Seitzer (11), IF Taylor Motter (17)
Charlotte: P Jeff Ames (s1), OF Kes Carter (s1), IF Tyler Goeddel (s1)
Bowling Green: OF Granden Goetzman (2), P Jake Faria (10), OF James Harris Jr, (s1), P Blake Snell (s1)
Suspended: P Taylor Guerrieri (1)
2012 draft
Montgomery: IF Richie Shaffer (1), C Luke Maile (8), OF Joey Rickard (9), P Dylan Floro (13), OF Willie Argo (22)
Charlotte: OF Andrew Toles (3), OF Marty Gantt (7), IF Tommy Coyle (16), P Kevin Brandt (18), P Ryan Garton (34), P Nick Sawyer (40)
Bowling Green: P Chris Kirsch (14), P Jordan Harrison (25)
2013 draft
Charlotte: P Austin Pruitt (9)
Bowling Green: IF Kean Wong (4), OF John Field Jr, (5), IF Ty Young (7), P Aaron Griffin (10), IF Pat Blair (12), P Andrew Hanse (22), P Stone Speer (25), P Hunter Wood (29), P Colton Reavis (30)
Bowling Green DL: P Jaime Schultz (14)
FREE AGENT
Tampa Bay: P Grant Balfour, IF James Loney, C Jose Molina, P Joel Peralta
Tampa Bay DL: P Juan Carlos Oviedo
Durham: P Erik Bedard, IF Wilson Betemit, OF Justin Christian, IF Mike Fontenot, IF Ray Olmedo, C Eddy Rodriguez, P Juan Sandoval, C Ali Solis
Durham DL: OF James Darnell, OF Jeremy Moore
Montgomery: P Michael Colla, P Santiago Garrido, P Jared Mortensen, P Sam Runion
Charlotte: P Leonel Santiago
INTERNATIONAL FREE AGENT
Durham: P Enny Romero
Montgomery: P Braulio Lara, P Victor Mateo
Charlotte: P Roberto Gomez, IF Hector Guevara, P Reinaldo Lopez, P Jose Molina, IF Jonathan Quinonez, IF Leonardo Reginatto, IF Alejandro Segovia, P Bruedlin Suero
Charlotte DL: P Albert Suarez
Bowling Green: C Armando Araiza, OF Yoel Araujo, P Luis Cabrera, IF Darryl George, C Oscar Hernandez, P German Marquez, IF Juniel Querecuto, IF Alexander Simon
Bowling Green DL: P Eduar Quinonez
Suspended: P Alex Colome
NON-DRAFTED FREE AGENT
Durham: P Kirby Yates
Bowling Green: P Brad Schreiber
TRADE
Tampa Bay: P Chris Archer, P Heath Bell, OF David DeJesus, IF Yunel Escobar, IF Logan Forsythe, P Brandon Gomes, OF Brandon Guyer, C Ryan Hanigan, OF Matt Joyce, P Josh Lueke, OF Wil Myers, P Jake Odorizzi, P Cesar Ramos, OF Sean Rodriguez, IF Ben Zobrist
Durham: P Matt Andriese, P Jeff Beliveau, IF Vince Belnome, P Brad Boxberger, IF Cole Figueroa, P Steve Geltz, P Nathan Karns, P Mike Montgomery
Durham DL: IF Hak-Ju Lee
Montgomery: C Curt Casali, P Matt Lollis
Charlotte: IF Patrick Leonard, C Maxx Tissenbaum
WAIVERS
Durham: OF Jerry Sands
2004 draft
Tampa Bay: P Jake McGee (5th round)
2005 draft
Tampa Bay DL: P Jeremy Hellickson (4)
2006 draft
Tampa Bay: IF Evan Longoria (1), P Alex Cobb (4), OF Desmond Jennings (10)
2007 draft
Tampa Bay: P David Price (1), P Matt Moore (8)
2008 draft
Tampa Bay DL: IF Tim Beckham (1)
Montgomery DL: OF Ty Morrison (4)
2009 draft
Montgomery: IF Jeff Malm (5), P Andrew Bellatti (12), P Matt Ramsey (21)
Montgomery DL: P Jacob Partridge (18)
Montgomery inactive: C Luke Bailey (4)
Charlotte: P Marcus Jensen (30)
2010 draft
Durham: P Merrill Kelly (8), IF Robby Price (13), P C.J, Riefenhauser (20), P Adam Liberatore (21), OF Kevin Kiermaier (31)
Montgomery: P Jake Thompson (2), IF Ryan Brett (3), P Jimmy Patterson (18)
Charlotte: C Justin O'Conner (1), OF Josh Sale (1), C Jake DePew (9), P Parker Markel (39)
Bowling Green: P Ian Kendall (5)
Bowling Green DL: P Brandon Henderson (15)
2011 draft
Durham: OF Mikie Mahtook (1)
Montgomery: IF Jake Hager (1), P Grayson Garvin (supplemental 1st)
Montgomery DL: P Lenny Linsky (2), IF Riccio Torrez (4), IF Cameron Seitzer (11), IF Taylor Motter (17)
Charlotte: P Jeff Ames (s1), OF Kes Carter (s1), IF Tyler Goeddel (s1)
Bowling Green: OF Granden Goetzman (2), P Jake Faria (10), OF James Harris Jr, (s1), P Blake Snell (s1)
Suspended: P Taylor Guerrieri (1)
2012 draft
Montgomery: IF Richie Shaffer (1), C Luke Maile (8), OF Joey Rickard (9), P Dylan Floro (13), OF Willie Argo (22)
Charlotte: OF Andrew Toles (3), OF Marty Gantt (7), IF Tommy Coyle (16), P Kevin Brandt (18), P Ryan Garton (34), P Nick Sawyer (40)
Bowling Green: P Chris Kirsch (14), P Jordan Harrison (25)
2013 draft
Charlotte: P Austin Pruitt (9)
Bowling Green: IF Kean Wong (4), OF John Field Jr, (5), IF Ty Young (7), P Aaron Griffin (10), IF Pat Blair (12), P Andrew Hanse (22), P Stone Speer (25), P Hunter Wood (29), P Colton Reavis (30)
Bowling Green DL: P Jaime Schultz (14)
FREE AGENT
Tampa Bay: P Grant Balfour, IF James Loney, C Jose Molina, P Joel Peralta
Tampa Bay DL: P Juan Carlos Oviedo
Durham: P Erik Bedard, IF Wilson Betemit, OF Justin Christian, IF Mike Fontenot, IF Ray Olmedo, C Eddy Rodriguez, P Juan Sandoval, C Ali Solis
Durham DL: OF James Darnell, OF Jeremy Moore
Montgomery: P Michael Colla, P Santiago Garrido, P Jared Mortensen, P Sam Runion
Charlotte: P Leonel Santiago
INTERNATIONAL FREE AGENT
Durham: P Enny Romero
Montgomery: P Braulio Lara, P Victor Mateo
Charlotte: P Roberto Gomez, IF Hector Guevara, P Reinaldo Lopez, P Jose Molina, IF Jonathan Quinonez, IF Leonardo Reginatto, IF Alejandro Segovia, P Bruedlin Suero
Charlotte DL: P Albert Suarez
Bowling Green: C Armando Araiza, OF Yoel Araujo, P Luis Cabrera, IF Darryl George, C Oscar Hernandez, P German Marquez, IF Juniel Querecuto, IF Alexander Simon
Bowling Green DL: P Eduar Quinonez
Suspended: P Alex Colome
NON-DRAFTED FREE AGENT
Durham: P Kirby Yates
Bowling Green: P Brad Schreiber
TRADE
Tampa Bay: P Chris Archer, P Heath Bell, OF David DeJesus, IF Yunel Escobar, IF Logan Forsythe, P Brandon Gomes, OF Brandon Guyer, C Ryan Hanigan, OF Matt Joyce, P Josh Lueke, OF Wil Myers, P Jake Odorizzi, P Cesar Ramos, OF Sean Rodriguez, IF Ben Zobrist
Durham: P Matt Andriese, P Jeff Beliveau, IF Vince Belnome, P Brad Boxberger, IF Cole Figueroa, P Steve Geltz, P Nathan Karns, P Mike Montgomery
Durham DL: IF Hak-Ju Lee
Montgomery: C Curt Casali, P Matt Lollis
Charlotte: IF Patrick Leonard, C Maxx Tissenbaum
WAIVERS
Durham: OF Jerry Sands
Tuesday, April 01, 2014
VIDEO: Biscuits IF Riccio Torrez takes BP
Biscuits infielder Riccio Torrez takes batting practice during the team's first full workout Monday at Riverwalk Stadium.
Karns gets Opening Day nod from Bulls
Nathan Karns, who came to the Rays in a February trade with the Washington Nationals, will be Triple-A Durham's Opening Day starter
It will be Karns' Triple-A debut. The right-hander made 23 starts at Double-A Harrisburg and three with the Nats last season.
After Karns, Durham will start Enny Romero, Matt Andriese, Mike Montgomery and Erik Bedard, according to reports.
The Bulls begin their season at home Thursday against the Gwinnett Braves.
Romero was Montgomery's third-game starter last year. The Rays added Andriese and Montgomery in trades from the Padres this year and Royals last year. Bedard, after opting out of his contract last month to pursue major league opportunities, re-signed a minor league deal with Tampa Bay.
It will be Karns' Triple-A debut. The right-hander made 23 starts at Double-A Harrisburg and three with the Nats last season.
After Karns, Durham will start Enny Romero, Matt Andriese, Mike Montgomery and Erik Bedard, according to reports.
The Bulls begin their season at home Thursday against the Gwinnett Braves.
Romero was Montgomery's third-game starter last year. The Rays added Andriese and Montgomery in trades from the Padres this year and Royals last year. Bedard, after opting out of his contract last month to pursue major league opportunities, re-signed a minor league deal with Tampa Bay.
VIDEO: Biscuits OF Joey Rickard takes BP
Biscuits outfielder Joey Rickard takes batting practice during the team's first full workout Monday at Riverwalk Stadium.
Monday, March 31, 2014
17 former Biscuits on Opening Day rosters, non-Rays division
After the Rays, Biscuits fans can look to the Windy City for their former stars.
Of the 17 former Biscuits on an Opening Day roster other than Tampa Bay's, three are with the Chicago Cubs: right-handed pitchers Jason Hammel and Jose Veras and outfielder Justin Ruggiano. The Cubs also feature Montgomery County native Wesley Wright, a left-handed pitcher.
The Oakland A's, Baltimore Orioles, San Diego Padres and Kansas City Royals each have two former Biscuits on their Opening Day rosters. The A's have a third, catcher Stephen Vogt, on their 40-man roster but in the minor leagues.
Padres pitchers Dale Thayer and Alex Torres both appeared in Sunday night's season-opening victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. Thayer was the winning pitcher.
James Shields was the Opening Day starter today for the Royals, though reliever Wade Davis took the loss at Detroit.
Here's a rundown of all the former Biscuits on a team's 40-man roster ...
ANGELS
RHP Dane De La Rosa (DL)
ASTROS
LHP Darin Downs
ATHLETICS
LHP Scott Kazmir
C John Jaso
C Stephen Vogt (minors)
BRAVES
CF B.J. Upton
CUBS
RHP Jason Hammel
RHP Jose Veras
OF Justin Ruggiano
GIANTS
RHP Jean Machi
INDIANS
IF Elliot Johnson
MARLINS
IF Derek Dietrich
METS
RHP Ryan Reid (minors)
NATIONALS
C Jose Lobaton
ORIOLES
RHP Evan Meek
OF Delmon Young
PADRES
RHP Dale Thayer
LHP Alex Torres
ROYALS
RHP Wade Davis
RHP James Shields
TIGERS
LHP Kyle Lobstein (minors)
WHITE SOX
LHP Frank De Los Santos (minors)
Oh, what of the Rays, you ask? ...
RHP Chris Archer
LHP Jeff Beliveau (minors)
RHP Alex Cobb
RHP Alex Colome (suspended)
RHP Jeremy Hellickson (DL)
LHP Jake McGee
LHP Matt Moore
LHP David Price
LHP C.J. Riefenhauser (minors)
LHP Enny Romero (minors)
RHP Kirby Yates (minors)
IF Tim Beckham (DL)
IF Hak-Ju Lee (minors)
3B Evan Longoria
CF Desmond Jennings
OF Kevin Kiermaier (minors)
Of the 17 former Biscuits on an Opening Day roster other than Tampa Bay's, three are with the Chicago Cubs: right-handed pitchers Jason Hammel and Jose Veras and outfielder Justin Ruggiano. The Cubs also feature Montgomery County native Wesley Wright, a left-handed pitcher.
The Oakland A's, Baltimore Orioles, San Diego Padres and Kansas City Royals each have two former Biscuits on their Opening Day rosters. The A's have a third, catcher Stephen Vogt, on their 40-man roster but in the minor leagues.
Padres pitchers Dale Thayer and Alex Torres both appeared in Sunday night's season-opening victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. Thayer was the winning pitcher.
James Shields was the Opening Day starter today for the Royals, though reliever Wade Davis took the loss at Detroit.
Here's a rundown of all the former Biscuits on a team's 40-man roster ...
ANGELS
RHP Dane De La Rosa (DL)
ASTROS
LHP Darin Downs
ATHLETICS
LHP Scott Kazmir
C John Jaso
C Stephen Vogt (minors)
BRAVES
CF B.J. Upton
CUBS
RHP Jason Hammel
RHP Jose Veras
OF Justin Ruggiano
GIANTS
RHP Jean Machi
INDIANS
IF Elliot Johnson
MARLINS
IF Derek Dietrich
METS
RHP Ryan Reid (minors)
NATIONALS
C Jose Lobaton
ORIOLES
RHP Evan Meek
OF Delmon Young
PADRES
RHP Dale Thayer
LHP Alex Torres
ROYALS
RHP Wade Davis
RHP James Shields
TIGERS
LHP Kyle Lobstein (minors)
WHITE SOX
LHP Frank De Los Santos (minors)
Oh, what of the Rays, you ask? ...
RHP Chris Archer
LHP Jeff Beliveau (minors)
RHP Alex Cobb
RHP Alex Colome (suspended)
RHP Jeremy Hellickson (DL)
LHP Jake McGee
LHP Matt Moore
LHP David Price
LHP C.J. Riefenhauser (minors)
LHP Enny Romero (minors)
RHP Kirby Yates (minors)
IF Tim Beckham (DL)
IF Hak-Ju Lee (minors)
3B Evan Longoria
CF Desmond Jennings
OF Kevin Kiermaier (minors)
VIDEO: Biscuits IF-OF Taylor Motter takes BP
Biscuits infielder-outfielder Taylor Motter takes batting practice during the team's first full workout Monday at Riverwalk Stadium.
VIDEO: Biscuits OF Jeff Malm takes BP
Biscuits outfielder Jeff Malm takes batting practice during the team's first full workout Monday at Riverwalk Stadium.
VIDEO: Biscuits 3B Richie Shaffer takes BP
Biscuits third baseman Richie Shaffer takes batting practice during the team's first full workout Monday at Riverwalk Stadium.
Numerical Biscuits roster
Anybody need a numerical roster?
1: Ryan Brett, second base
2: Jake Hager, shortstop
4: Riccio Torrez, infielder
7: Joey Rickard, outfielder
8: Luke Bailey, catcher
10: Taylor Motter, infielder-outfielder
11: Braulio Lara, left-handed pitcher
12: Richie Shaffer, third baseman
13: Curt Casali, catcher
15: Dylan Floro, right-handed pitcher
16: Alejandro Segovia, first baseman
17: Andrew Bellatti, right-handed pitcher
18: R.C. Lichtenstein, pitching coach
19: Santiago Garrido, right-handed pitcher
20: Matt Ramsey, right-handed pitcher
21: Luke Maile, catcher
22: Brady Williams, manager
23: Jeff Malm, outfielder
24: Willie Argo, outfielder
25: Jimmy Patterson, left-handed pitcher
28: Grayson Garvin, left-handed pitcher
29: Jared Mortensen, right-handed pitcher
33: Cameron Seitzer, first baseman
34: Michael Colla, right-handed pitcher
36: Jake Thompson, right-handed pitcher
41: Sam Runion, right-handed pitcher
44: Ozzie Timmons, hitting coach
45: Victor Mateo, right-handed pitcher
46: Matt Lollis, right-handed pitcher
1: Ryan Brett, second base
2: Jake Hager, shortstop
4: Riccio Torrez, infielder
7: Joey Rickard, outfielder
8: Luke Bailey, catcher
10: Taylor Motter, infielder-outfielder
11: Braulio Lara, left-handed pitcher
12: Richie Shaffer, third baseman
13: Curt Casali, catcher
15: Dylan Floro, right-handed pitcher
16: Alejandro Segovia, first baseman
17: Andrew Bellatti, right-handed pitcher
18: R.C. Lichtenstein, pitching coach
19: Santiago Garrido, right-handed pitcher
20: Matt Ramsey, right-handed pitcher
21: Luke Maile, catcher
22: Brady Williams, manager
23: Jeff Malm, outfielder
24: Willie Argo, outfielder
25: Jimmy Patterson, left-handed pitcher
28: Grayson Garvin, left-handed pitcher
29: Jared Mortensen, right-handed pitcher
33: Cameron Seitzer, first baseman
34: Michael Colla, right-handed pitcher
36: Jake Thompson, right-handed pitcher
41: Sam Runion, right-handed pitcher
44: Ozzie Timmons, hitting coach
45: Victor Mateo, right-handed pitcher
46: Matt Lollis, right-handed pitcher
Mateo to start Opening Night for Biscuits
Victor Mateo is scheduled to be Montgomery's Opening Day starter Thursday against Birmingham.
After Mateo, the Biscuits' planned rotation goes Dylan Floro, Jared Mortensen, Michael Colla and Grayson Garvin.
Mateo is the only one of the five planned starters who was with the Biscuits at the beginning of last season. Colla joined the team in early June. The other three ended last season at high-Class A Charlotte and are making their Double-A debuts.
After Mateo, the Biscuits' planned rotation goes Dylan Floro, Jared Mortensen, Michael Colla and Grayson Garvin.
Mateo is the only one of the five planned starters who was with the Biscuits at the beginning of last season. Colla joined the team in early June. The other three ended last season at high-Class A Charlotte and are making their Double-A debuts.
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Breaking down Rays' top prospects by team
The Biscuits have the most crown jewels of the Tampa Bay organization to start the season.
Montgomery has six of the top 30 prospects in the Rays' system, going by Baseball America's annual preseason rankings.
Tampa Bay (1): P Jake Odorizzi (No. 1).
Tampa Bay DL (1): IF Tim Beckham (9).
Durham (4): P Enny Romero (4), OF Kevin Kiermaier (10), P C.J. Riefenhauser (23), OF Mikie Mahtook (25).
Durham DL (1): IF Hak-Ju Lee (2)
Montgomery (6): IF Ryan Brett (8), IF Richie Shaffer (13), P Grayson Garvin (16), IF Jake Hager (18), P Dylan Floro (26), C Curt Casali (29).
Charlotte (4): OF Andrew Toles (6), C Justin O'Conner (12), IF Tyler Goeddel (22), P Jeff Ames (30).
Bowling Green (2): P Blake Snell (14), C Oscar Hernandez (24).
Extended spring (4): C Nick Ciuffo (7), P Ryne Stanek (11), IF Riley Unroe (19), OF Tommy Milone (27).
Suspended (2): P Taylor Guerrieri (3), P Alex Colome (5).
Not in U.S.?? (2): P Jose Mujica (21), P Jose Castillo (28).
Traded away (3): P Jesse Hahn (15), P Felipe Rivero (17), OF Drew Vettleson (20).
Montgomery has six of the top 30 prospects in the Rays' system, going by Baseball America's annual preseason rankings.
Tampa Bay (1): P Jake Odorizzi (No. 1).
Tampa Bay DL (1): IF Tim Beckham (9).
Durham (4): P Enny Romero (4), OF Kevin Kiermaier (10), P C.J. Riefenhauser (23), OF Mikie Mahtook (25).
Durham DL (1): IF Hak-Ju Lee (2)
Montgomery (6): IF Ryan Brett (8), IF Richie Shaffer (13), P Grayson Garvin (16), IF Jake Hager (18), P Dylan Floro (26), C Curt Casali (29).
Charlotte (4): OF Andrew Toles (6), C Justin O'Conner (12), IF Tyler Goeddel (22), P Jeff Ames (30).
Bowling Green (2): P Blake Snell (14), C Oscar Hernandez (24).
Extended spring (4): C Nick Ciuffo (7), P Ryne Stanek (11), IF Riley Unroe (19), OF Tommy Milone (27).
Suspended (2): P Taylor Guerrieri (3), P Alex Colome (5).
Not in U.S.?? (2): P Jose Mujica (21), P Jose Castillo (28).
Traded away (3): P Jesse Hahn (15), P Felipe Rivero (17), OF Drew Vettleson (20).
Left behind
Below are the players unaccounted for when the Rays released their full-season rosters. Each was on the most-recent minor league spring roster.
Most will be at extended spring training or are rehabbing injuries, though some may have been released.
Some may be assigned to Hudson Valley right away and will report to a full-season team as an extra player. That's what catcher Luke Bailey is doing with the Biscuits and I didn't include him here. I suspect catcher Mayo Acosta is doing the same at Triple-A Durham, but I don't have confirmation, so I did list him.
Pitcher (19): Jose Alonzo, Damion Carroll, Clayton Crum, Ely Echarry, Mario Fernandez, Darren Fischer, Hyrum Formo, Enderson Franco, William Gabay, Nolan Gannon, Isaac Gil, Ben Griset, Josh Kimborowicz, Derek Loera, Jordan Norberto, Jorge Rodriguez, DJ Slaton, Ryne Stanek, Anthony Tzamtzis.
Catcher (9): Mayo Acosta, Nick Ciuffo, Wilmer Dominguez, Taylor Hawkins, Ryan McChesney, Adam Pendleton, David Rodriguez, Geoff Rowan, Sean Smedley.
Infielder (6): John Alexander, Coty Blanchard, Douglas Duran, Ariel Soriano, Cristian Toribio, Riley Unroe.
Outfielder (10): Spencer Edwards, Jeremy Hadley, Clay Henning, Bralin Jackson, Hunter Lockwood, Tommy Milone, Raul Mondesi Jr., Jose Paez, Julian Ridings, Elias Torres.
Suspended (2): RHP Alex Colome, RHP Taylor Guerrieri.
Most will be at extended spring training or are rehabbing injuries, though some may have been released.
Some may be assigned to Hudson Valley right away and will report to a full-season team as an extra player. That's what catcher Luke Bailey is doing with the Biscuits and I didn't include him here. I suspect catcher Mayo Acosta is doing the same at Triple-A Durham, but I don't have confirmation, so I did list him.
Pitcher (19): Jose Alonzo, Damion Carroll, Clayton Crum, Ely Echarry, Mario Fernandez, Darren Fischer, Hyrum Formo, Enderson Franco, William Gabay, Nolan Gannon, Isaac Gil, Ben Griset, Josh Kimborowicz, Derek Loera, Jordan Norberto, Jorge Rodriguez, DJ Slaton, Ryne Stanek, Anthony Tzamtzis.
Catcher (9): Mayo Acosta, Nick Ciuffo, Wilmer Dominguez, Taylor Hawkins, Ryan McChesney, Adam Pendleton, David Rodriguez, Geoff Rowan, Sean Smedley.
Infielder (6): John Alexander, Coty Blanchard, Douglas Duran, Ariel Soriano, Cristian Toribio, Riley Unroe.
Outfielder (10): Spencer Edwards, Jeremy Hadley, Clay Henning, Bralin Jackson, Hunter Lockwood, Tommy Milone, Raul Mondesi Jr., Jose Paez, Julian Ridings, Elias Torres.
Suspended (2): RHP Alex Colome, RHP Taylor Guerrieri.
Bailey inactive; 3 others on Biscuits' DL
Catcher Luke Bailey won't be on Montgomery's active roster to start the season.
Also, the Biscuits have three players assigned to their disabled list, though all three will remain in Port Charlotte, Fla., for rehab.
Outfielder Ty Morrison is among them, along with pitchers Lenny Linsky and Jake Partridge.
EARLIER: Your 2014 Montgomery Biscuits
Also, the Biscuits have three players assigned to their disabled list, though all three will remain in Port Charlotte, Fla., for rehab.
Outfielder Ty Morrison is among them, along with pitchers Lenny Linsky and Jake Partridge.
EARLIER: Your 2014 Montgomery Biscuits
Your 2014 Charlotte Stone Crabs
Your 2014 Charlotte Stone Crabs ...
Pitchers (12): Jeff Ames, Kevin Brandt, Ryan Garton, Roberto Gomez, Marcus Jensen, Reinaldo Lopez, Parker Markel, Jose Molina, Austin Pruitt, Leonel Santiago, Nick Sawyer, Bruedlin Suero.
Catchers (3): Jake DePew, Justin O'Conner, Maxx Tissenbaum.
Infielders (6): Tommy Coyle, Tyler Goeddel, Hector Guevara, Patrick Leonard, Jonathan Quinonez, Leonardo Reginatto.
Outfielders (4): Kes Carter, Marty Gantt, Josh Sale, Andrew Toles.
DL (1): RHP Albert Suarez.
Pitchers (12): Jeff Ames, Kevin Brandt, Ryan Garton, Roberto Gomez, Marcus Jensen, Reinaldo Lopez, Parker Markel, Jose Molina, Austin Pruitt, Leonel Santiago, Nick Sawyer, Bruedlin Suero.
Catchers (3): Jake DePew, Justin O'Conner, Maxx Tissenbaum.
Infielders (6): Tommy Coyle, Tyler Goeddel, Hector Guevara, Patrick Leonard, Jonathan Quinonez, Leonardo Reginatto.
Outfielders (4): Kes Carter, Marty Gantt, Josh Sale, Andrew Toles.
DL (1): RHP Albert Suarez.
Your 2014 Bowling Green Hot Rods
Your 2014 Bowling Green Hot Rods ...
Pitchers (13): Luis Cabrera, Jake Faria, Aaron Griffin, Andrew Hanse, Jordan Harrison, Ian Kendall, Chris Kirsch, German Marquez, Colton Reavis, Brad Schreiber, Blake Snell, Stone Speer, Hunter Wood.
Catchers (2): Armando Araiza, Oscar Hernandez.
Infielders (6): Pat Blair, Darryl George, Juniel Querecuto, Alexander Simon, Kean Wong, Ty Young.
Outfielders (4): Yoel Araujo, Johnny Field, Granden Goetzman, James Harris.
DL (3): LHP Brandon Henderson, RHP Eduar Quinonez, RHP Jaime Schultz.
Pitchers (13): Luis Cabrera, Jake Faria, Aaron Griffin, Andrew Hanse, Jordan Harrison, Ian Kendall, Chris Kirsch, German Marquez, Colton Reavis, Brad Schreiber, Blake Snell, Stone Speer, Hunter Wood.
Catchers (2): Armando Araiza, Oscar Hernandez.
Infielders (6): Pat Blair, Darryl George, Juniel Querecuto, Alexander Simon, Kean Wong, Ty Young.
Outfielders (4): Yoel Araujo, Johnny Field, Granden Goetzman, James Harris.
DL (3): LHP Brandon Henderson, RHP Eduar Quinonez, RHP Jaime Schultz.
Your 2014 Durham Bulls
Your 2014 Durham Bulls ...
Pitchers (13): Matt Andriese, Erik Bedard, Jeff Beliveau, Brad Boxberger, Steve Geltz, Nathan Karns, Merrill Kelly, Adam Liberatore, Mike Montgomery, C.J. Riefenhauser, Enny Romero, Juan Sandoval, Kirby Yates.
Catchers (2): Eddy Rodriguez, Ali Solis.
Infielders (6): Vince Belnome, Wilson Betemit, Cole Figueroa, Mike Fontenot, Ray Olmedo, Robby Price.
Outfielders (4): Justin Christian, Kevin Kiermaier, Mikie Mahtook, Jerry Sands.
DL (3): SS Hak-Ju Lee, OF James Darnell, OF Jeremy Moore.
No Mayo Acosta orJeremy Moore.
Updated with Moore being included on Durham's DL by the Rays.
Pitchers (13): Matt Andriese, Erik Bedard, Jeff Beliveau, Brad Boxberger, Steve Geltz, Nathan Karns, Merrill Kelly, Adam Liberatore, Mike Montgomery, C.J. Riefenhauser, Enny Romero, Juan Sandoval, Kirby Yates.
Catchers (2): Eddy Rodriguez, Ali Solis.
Infielders (6): Vince Belnome, Wilson Betemit, Cole Figueroa, Mike Fontenot, Ray Olmedo, Robby Price.
Outfielders (4): Justin Christian, Kevin Kiermaier, Mikie Mahtook, Jerry Sands.
DL (3): SS Hak-Ju Lee, OF James Darnell, OF Jeremy Moore.
No Mayo Acosta or
Updated with Moore being included on Durham's DL by the Rays.
Your 2014 Montgomery Biscuits
In lieu of official rosters that will be announced whenever they're announced, here again is the list of Biscuits from Saturday. There are 26 players, so one player won't be on the active roster when Montgomery begins the season Thursday.
Pitchers (13): Andrew Bellatti, Michael Colla, Dylan Floro, Santiago Garrido, Grayson Garvin, Braulio Lara, Matt Lollis, Victor Mateo, Jared Mortensen, Jimmy Patterson, Matt Ramsey, Sam Runion, Jake Thompson.
Catchers (3): Luke Bailey, Curt Casali, Luke Maile.
Infielders (7): Ryan Brett, Jake Hager, Jeff Malm, Alejandro Segovia, Cameron Seitzer, Richie Shaffer, Riccio Torrez.
Outfielders (3): Willie Argo, Taylor Motter, Joey Rickard.
FRIDAY: 20 confirmed players headed north to Biscuits
SATURDAY: Rickard also on Biscuits' 26-player list
Pitchers (13): Andrew Bellatti, Michael Colla, Dylan Floro, Santiago Garrido, Grayson Garvin, Braulio Lara, Matt Lollis, Victor Mateo, Jared Mortensen, Jimmy Patterson, Matt Ramsey, Sam Runion, Jake Thompson.
Catchers (3): Luke Bailey, Curt Casali, Luke Maile.
Infielders (7): Ryan Brett, Jake Hager, Jeff Malm, Alejandro Segovia, Cameron Seitzer, Richie Shaffer, Riccio Torrez.
Outfielders (3): Willie Argo, Taylor Motter, Joey Rickard.
FRIDAY: 20 confirmed players headed north to Biscuits
SATURDAY: Rickard also on Biscuits' 26-player list
Your 2014 Tampa Bay Rays
Here are your 2014 Opening Day Tampa Bay Rays ...
Pitchers (12): Chris Archer, Grant Balfour, Heath Bell, Alex Cobb, Brandon Gomes, Josh Lueke, Jake McGee, Matt Moore, Jake Odorizzi, Joel Peralta, David Price, Cesar Ramos.
Catchers (2): Ryan Hanigan, Jose Molina.
Infielders (6): Yunel Escobar, Logan Forsythe, James Loney, Evan Longoria, Sean Rodriguez, Ben Zobrist.
Outfielders (5): David DeJesus, Brandon Guyer, Desmond Jennings, Matt Joyce, Wil Myers.
DL (3): IF Tim Beckham, RHP Jeremy Hellickson, RHP Juan Carlos Oviedo.
Pitchers (12): Chris Archer, Grant Balfour, Heath Bell, Alex Cobb, Brandon Gomes, Josh Lueke, Jake McGee, Matt Moore, Jake Odorizzi, Joel Peralta, David Price, Cesar Ramos.
Catchers (2): Ryan Hanigan, Jose Molina.
Infielders (6): Yunel Escobar, Logan Forsythe, James Loney, Evan Longoria, Sean Rodriguez, Ben Zobrist.
Outfielders (5): David DeJesus, Brandon Guyer, Desmond Jennings, Matt Joyce, Wil Myers.
DL (3): IF Tim Beckham, RHP Jeremy Hellickson, RHP Juan Carlos Oviedo.
Links from Biscuits-Rays exhibition
If you need to catch up on anything from Saturday's Biscuits-Rays exhibition, here are your links.
Oh, my, O'Conner: Catcher makes big impression for Rays
Notes: Comeback feeds Biscuits' hopes
Commentary: Biscuits-Rays matchup should happen more often
Desmond Jennings enjoys Riverwalk return: 'It's like home. I love it here.'
Trio of Biscuits return to Riverwalk
Exhibition a nice tuneup for Biscuits
Biscuits pride: Hometown fans watch their team beat the Rays
Joe Maddon Q-and-A -- Tampa Bay manager to youth: 'Sacrifice is a big word'
Oh, my, O'Conner: Catcher makes big impression for Rays
Notes: Comeback feeds Biscuits' hopes
Commentary: Biscuits-Rays matchup should happen more often
Desmond Jennings enjoys Riverwalk return: 'It's like home. I love it here.'
Trio of Biscuits return to Riverwalk
Exhibition a nice tuneup for Biscuits
Biscuits pride: Hometown fans watch their team beat the Rays
Joe Maddon Q-and-A -- Tampa Bay manager to youth: 'Sacrifice is a big word'
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Saturday: Biscuits 6, Rays 5
Richie Shaffer's eighth-inning flyout brought home Luke Maile and lifted the Biscuits to a 6-5 exhibition win over their parent team, the Tampa Bay Rays, on Saturday.
Maile singled and went to third Cameron Seitzer's double before Shaffer hit a long flyball to right field. Maile easily scored.
The Biscuits rallied from a 5-0 deficit in the sixth inning against pitchers who are going to be Biscuits. Three Montgomery pitchers played for Tampa Bay on Saturday.
They scored four times in the sixth, highlighted by Jeff Malm's two-run home run off Dylan Floro. Taylor Motter hit the first pitch of the bottom of the seventh for a game-tying homer off Jimmy Patterson.
Catcher Justin O'Conner was a highlight for the Rays, though he's scheduled to begin the season at high-Class A Charlotte. O'Conner hit three doubles and threw out two potential basestealers.
Rays starter Chris Archer threw four shutout innings in his final spring appearance. Archer gave up three hits with no walks and six strikeouts. He threw 34 of 52 pitches for strikes.
The Rays begin the regular season Monday at home against Toronto. The Biscuits open the year at home Thursday vs. the Birmingham Barons.
Maile singled and went to third Cameron Seitzer's double before Shaffer hit a long flyball to right field. Maile easily scored.
The Biscuits rallied from a 5-0 deficit in the sixth inning against pitchers who are going to be Biscuits. Three Montgomery pitchers played for Tampa Bay on Saturday.
They scored four times in the sixth, highlighted by Jeff Malm's two-run home run off Dylan Floro. Taylor Motter hit the first pitch of the bottom of the seventh for a game-tying homer off Jimmy Patterson.
Catcher Justin O'Conner was a highlight for the Rays, though he's scheduled to begin the season at high-Class A Charlotte. O'Conner hit three doubles and threw out two potential basestealers.
Rays starter Chris Archer threw four shutout innings in his final spring appearance. Archer gave up three hits with no walks and six strikeouts. He threw 34 of 52 pitches for strikes.
The Rays begin the regular season Monday at home against Toronto. The Biscuits open the year at home Thursday vs. the Birmingham Barons.
VIDEO: Rays 3B Evan Longoria
Rays third baseman Evan Longoria, who played for the Biscuits in 2006-07, checks out a new display that includes him at Riverwalk Stadium.
Saturday's lineups: Biscuits vs. Rays
Lineups for today's exhibition game between the Biscuits and their parent team, the Tampa Bay Rays. First pitch at 2:05 p.m.
BISCUITS
Ryan Brett 2b (Riccio Torrez in 6th)
Willie Argo lf (Jeff Malm in 6th)
Curt Casali c (Luke Maile in 6th)
Cameron Seitzer 1b
Richie Shaffer 3b
Alejandro Segovia dh (Luke Bailey in 7th)
Taylor Motter rf
Jake Hager ss
Joey Rickard cf
Victor Mateo rhp
RAYS
David DeJesus lf
Wil Myers rf
Ben Zobrist 2b
Evan Longoria 3b
James Loney 1b
Desmond Jennings cf
Matt Joyce dh
Yunel Escobar ss
Justin O'Conner c
Chris Archer rhp
BISCUITS
Ryan Brett 2b (Riccio Torrez in 6th)
Willie Argo lf (Jeff Malm in 6th)
Curt Casali c (Luke Maile in 6th)
Cameron Seitzer 1b
Richie Shaffer 3b
Alejandro Segovia dh (Luke Bailey in 7th)
Taylor Motter rf
Jake Hager ss
Joey Rickard cf
Victor Mateo rhp
RAYS
David DeJesus lf
Wil Myers rf
Ben Zobrist 2b
Evan Longoria 3b
James Loney 1b
Desmond Jennings cf
Matt Joyce dh
Yunel Escobar ss
Justin O'Conner c
Chris Archer rhp
3 Biscuits to suit up for enemy Rays
The Biscuits have three "traitors" in their midst.
Pitchers Dylan Floro, Jimmy Patterson and Jake Thompson, who each have lockers in Montgomery's clubhouse (and a Biscuits uniform hanging in front of it), will play against the Biscuits today.
They'll be in Tampa Bay uniforms for the exhibition game at Riverwalk Stadium.
Also, infielder Hector Guevara, who played for the Biscuits last year, will be on the Rays' bench.
The Rays brought six more minor league position players on the trip to augment their roster: catchers Justin O'Conner and Maxx Tissenbaum, infielders Tommy Coyle and Patrick Leonard, and outfielders Kes Carter and Marty Gantt.
Pitchers Dylan Floro, Jimmy Patterson and Jake Thompson, who each have lockers in Montgomery's clubhouse (and a Biscuits uniform hanging in front of it), will play against the Biscuits today.
They'll be in Tampa Bay uniforms for the exhibition game at Riverwalk Stadium.
Also, infielder Hector Guevara, who played for the Biscuits last year, will be on the Rays' bench.
The Rays brought six more minor league position players on the trip to augment their roster: catchers Justin O'Conner and Maxx Tissenbaum, infielders Tommy Coyle and Patrick Leonard, and outfielders Kes Carter and Marty Gantt.
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