Round Rock
So now the Express can get some runs, huh? Round Rock comes back from 8-7 in the 9th for a 12-8 win over New Orleans on a walk-off grand slam by Yordany Ramirez. Round Rock swept the Zephyrs, scoring 34 runs in the three-game series. Andy Van Hekken threw 5.2IP, 11H/7ER, 3K:4BB, with one of those runs coming courtesy of Jonah Bayliss, who allowed 2H/0ER, 0K:2BB in 2IP. Danny Meszaros, despite allowing the go-ahead run in the top of the 9th, got his first Triple-A win with 1.1IP, 2H/1ER, 2K:0BB. Wladimir Sutil was 4x5 w/3RBI to lead the hit parade. Brian Bogusevic, Edwin Maysonet, Yordany Ramirez, and Brian Esposito had two hits each.
Man of the Match: Gotta give it to the walk-off grand slam guy. Yordany Ramirez.
Corpus
Evan Englebrook allowed two 11th inning home runs, and the Hooks drop 5-2 to Midland. Doug Arguello threw 5IP, 7H/2ER, 5K:4BB in the no-decision (ERA: Now 2.68). Jared Wells got 2K:2BB in 2.1IP, Fernando Abad threw 1.2IP, 1H/0ER, 1K:0BB in relief. Englebrook allowed 4H/3ER, 1K:1BB, 2HR in 1.1IP. Nevarez was pulled after walking the first batter he saw, and Jeilen Peguero struck out the last two batters to end the inning. Koby Clemens provided all the offense with a two-run shot - his 22nd of the year - and added another hit and a walk. Marcos Cabral also added two hits, while Jack Shuck was 1x3 with 2BB. J.D. Martinez was 1x5 with 3Ks, but did get an outfield assist at home plate.
Man of the Match: Koby Clemens
Lancaster
Lancaster took a 4-2 lead into the 8th, and allowed two in the 8th and one in the 10th for a 5-4 loss to Visalia. Ross Seaton enjoyed something of a bounceback performance with 7IP, 6H/4ER, 4K:1BB. Brian Wabick was responsible for two of Seaton's runs with 2H in 0.2IP, and David Berner took the loss by allowing one unearned run on three hits and a walk and a fielding error by Mark Ori. Jay Austin, Andy Simunic (2RBI), Lee Cruz, Brandon Barnes (2SB), and Ori (RBI) had two hits each. Federico Hernandez hit his 6th homer of the season.
Man of the Match: Going with Ross Seaton on this one.
Lexington
The Legends took a 3-0 lead at the end of three and then held on for a 3-2 win over Rome. Jose Cisnero threw 6IP, 4H/2ER, 4K:1BB, while Mike Schurz allowed 1H/0ER, 3K:1BB in 2IP, and Kirk Clark recorded his 22nd save of the season. Miguel Arrendell, Rene Garcia and Grant Hogue added two hits each, while Jose Altuve, Jake Goebbert, and Kody Hinze drew two walks each. RBIs came courtesy of Jonathan Meyer (3B), and Renzo Tello.
Man of the Match: Jose Cisnero.
Tri-City
Aberdeen pretty much shut the ValleyCats down in a 3-0 loss. Alex Sogard got the start, allowing 3.1IP, 5H/3ER, 2K:2BB. Murillo Gouvea struck out three in 2.2IP, Adam Champion and Mike Ness threw scoreless innings. Sogard got seven groundball outs, and one flyball out. The ValleyCats were limited to three hits - Enrique Hernandez, Tyler Burnett, and Mike Kvasnicka, also drawing a walk to become the only ValleyCat to get on base twice.
Man of the Match: Mike Kvasnicka
Greeneville
Pitcher's duel in Greeneville last night as the Gastros shutout Bristol 3-0. Ruben Alaniz is one inconsistent son of a gun, throwing 5IP, 5H/0ER, 3K:0BB - one start after lasting 0.2IP, allowing 5H/6ER. Travis Smink (2K), Ryan Cole (0H, 1K), and Paul Gerrish (1BB) held Bristol to 4IP, 1H/0ER, 4K:1BB in relief. The Gastros won despite only getting four hits - a triple from Marcus Nidiffer and Rafael Valenzuela, one from Our Boy Bubby Williams, and one from Bryce Lane - with Valenzuela and Lane providing the RBIs.
Man of the Match: Ruben Alaniz.
GCL Astros
Game 1: Lost 2-0 to the GCL Marlins. Danilo Del Rio threw 7IP, 4H/2R (1ER), 5K:1BB in the losing effort. Roberto Pena and Garen Wright - who also had two stolen bases - provided the only hits of the day.
Man of the Match: Danilo Del Rio
Game 2: Didn't get any better as the GCL Marlins win, 3-1. B.J. Hagen took the loss, despite not allowing an earned run: 3IP, 3H/2R (0ER), 1K:2BB. Nathan Pettus was perfect in the fourth and Rafael Feliz allowed 1H/1ER, 1K:2BB, 2WP in 1IP. Jeremiah Meiners allowed 1H/0ER in 2IP. Ryan Ditthardt had two hits, while the other eight hits were scattered among eight players. Ernesto Genoves provided the only RBI. Chan-Jong Moon was 1x4 with 3K and is hitting .313 on the year.
Man of the Match: Ryan Ditthardt.
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
Friday, July 23, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Further evidence Koby Clemens is moving on up
Here's a long article on Koby Clemens from Sports Illustrated. A lot of it is information of which we were already aware, but Ricky Bennett says:
"If he continues to work, he's going to play in the big leagues. And he's got a chance to be a real good major league player."
Clemens:
"It's just that sometimes I have been caught up in stuff like that, worrying about what can happen or expecting things to happen and then they don't and it put me in a tailspin. Last season was a perfect example of how I just worried about things I could control and took advantage of my opportunities. That's the same approach I'm taking now. Whatever happens up there, happens. When it's time for me to get called up and moved into the big leagues, it'll be the right time for me."
So the article says he could go into the Spring in pencil as 1B1. Depending on what the Astros get for Roy, that could change, but it's still an interesting time for Koby.
"If he continues to work, he's going to play in the big leagues. And he's got a chance to be a real good major league player."
Clemens:
"It's just that sometimes I have been caught up in stuff like that, worrying about what can happen or expecting things to happen and then they don't and it put me in a tailspin. Last season was a perfect example of how I just worried about things I could control and took advantage of my opportunities. That's the same approach I'm taking now. Whatever happens up there, happens. When it's time for me to get called up and moved into the big leagues, it'll be the right time for me."
So the article says he could go into the Spring in pencil as 1B1. Depending on what the Astros get for Roy, that could change, but it's still an interesting time for Koby.
Details emerging on the Cardinals' offer
So it seems that Jayson Stark knows what the Astros were offered for Roy:
According to one source, the Cardinals offered two young players off their major-league roster for Oswalt. Among the prospects the Astros are likely to press for: last year's No. 1 pick, 19-year-old right-hander Shelby Miller...
...The Phillies, meanwhile, are thought to have offered pitcher J.A. Happ and a list of younger prospects for the Astros to choose from. But Houston is looking for higher-ceiling young players, particularly a catcher and/or corner infielders, than the names on that list.
A catcher, huh? I get the corner infielder part, but a catcher?
What about that 2012 option, official of one AL team?
"In the end. I don't believe the guy is going to insist on getting that option picked up. He wants out. And if he really wants out, that's going to change."
And here's the shocker of the day:
Oswalt's agent, Bob Garber, has not returned multiple calls from ESPN.com in the last 48 hours.
According to one source, the Cardinals offered two young players off their major-league roster for Oswalt. Among the prospects the Astros are likely to press for: last year's No. 1 pick, 19-year-old right-hander Shelby Miller...
...The Phillies, meanwhile, are thought to have offered pitcher J.A. Happ and a list of younger prospects for the Astros to choose from. But Houston is looking for higher-ceiling young players, particularly a catcher and/or corner infielders, than the names on that list.
A catcher, huh? I get the corner infielder part, but a catcher?
What about that 2012 option, official of one AL team?
"In the end. I don't believe the guy is going to insist on getting that option picked up. He wants out. And if he really wants out, that's going to change."
And here's the shocker of the day:
Oswalt's agent, Bob Garber, has not returned multiple calls from ESPN.com in the last 48 hours.
Good news for young Beau Mills
But, uh, bad news for the guy who got the hell beat out of him:
Their cases were transferred Thursday from a Summit County court to the lower Akron Municipal Court after a grand jury indicted them on lesser charges of misdemeanor disorderly conduct. The maximum sentence on the misdemeanor count is 30 days in jail and a $250 fine.
Their cases were transferred Thursday from a Summit County court to the lower Akron Municipal Court after a grand jury indicted them on lesser charges of misdemeanor disorderly conduct. The maximum sentence on the misdemeanor count is 30 days in jail and a $250 fine.
It would be nice to be one of these Persons With Knowledge of the Discussion
Zach Levine quotes said Person, introducing the latest team to be interested in Roy: the Minnesota Twins.
Of course, there is documented evidence of the Twins' interest going back to May 22.
Of course, there is documented evidence of the Twins' interest going back to May 22.
Adam Wainwright just went from six to midnight
Fox Sports Midwest's BJ Rains caught Adam Wainwright by surprise following today's game against the Phillies when he mentioned the Roy Rumor:
“Are we going to get him? He’s one of the best in the game, no doubt about it. It’s no knock against anybody who’s here right now that he would take a spot of, but he’s just that good. He’s going to help any rotation. If he’s in our rotation, nobody wants to play us in the playoffs. Not just regular season, but nobody wants to get in a postseason series with us.”
Colby Rasmus:
“He’s nasty. He’s definitely nasty. …It would definitely make us better, no doubt. If you go into the playoffs with Carp, Waino, Oswalt – I don’t see a better three out there. We’re trying to be like the Miami Heat, I guess."
“Are we going to get him? He’s one of the best in the game, no doubt about it. It’s no knock against anybody who’s here right now that he would take a spot of, but he’s just that good. He’s going to help any rotation. If he’s in our rotation, nobody wants to play us in the playoffs. Not just regular season, but nobody wants to get in a postseason series with us.”
Colby Rasmus:
“He’s nasty. He’s definitely nasty. …It would definitely make us better, no doubt. If you go into the playoffs with Carp, Waino, Oswalt – I don’t see a better three out there. We’re trying to be like the Miami Heat, I guess."
Soon-to-be-single Frank McCourt may test bachelorhood by adding payroll
ESPN Los Angeles' Tony Jackson checked in on the Dodgers to see what the heck they're doing these last ten days of July.
At any rate, there are strong indications Dodgers owner Frank McCourt, who is embroiled in an expensive, high-profile divorce that is widely suspected of sapping the team's operating budget, is willing to add to the club's current $83 million payroll to bring in a significant piece at the July 31 deadline.
That doesn't necessarily mean a starting pitcher, though. With the Dodgers' bullpen having imploded in recent days and outfielders Manny Ramirez and Reed Johnson on the disabled list -- both are expected back fairly soon, but there are no guarantees, of course -- the Dodgers ultimately might decide to upgrade other areas instead.
GM Ned Colletti:
"Pitching continues to be our priority. With Manny going down and Reed Johnson still out, we might look at trying to shore up our outfield as well."
Roy is going to be at the top of nearly every buyer's list, until Roy demands that he only get red M&Ms in his locker, and that Manny hand-squeeze his lemon, till the juice runs down his leg...
At any rate, there are strong indications Dodgers owner Frank McCourt, who is embroiled in an expensive, high-profile divorce that is widely suspected of sapping the team's operating budget, is willing to add to the club's current $83 million payroll to bring in a significant piece at the July 31 deadline.
That doesn't necessarily mean a starting pitcher, though. With the Dodgers' bullpen having imploded in recent days and outfielders Manny Ramirez and Reed Johnson on the disabled list -- both are expected back fairly soon, but there are no guarantees, of course -- the Dodgers ultimately might decide to upgrade other areas instead.
GM Ned Colletti:
"Pitching continues to be our priority. With Manny going down and Reed Johnson still out, we might look at trying to shore up our outfield as well."
Roy is going to be at the top of nearly every buyer's list, until Roy demands that he only get red M&Ms in his locker, and that Manny hand-squeeze his lemon, till the juice runs down his leg...
Cardinals could add salary, if needed - nothing imminent on Roy
Sporting News' Stan McNeal says that the Cardinals are in a position to add salary.
Cardinals President Bill DeWitt:
"I'm not getting into specifics, but I've said all along that we have flexibility...
...Just on that (Oswalt) subject, that's highly speculative. There's nothing imminent there at all. I'm not saying we wouldn't. I don't know how that word is floating around."
Cardinals President Bill DeWitt:
"I'm not getting into specifics, but I've said all along that we have flexibility...
...Just on that (Oswalt) subject, that's highly speculative. There's nothing imminent there at all. I'm not saying we wouldn't. I don't know how that word is floating around."
Rosenthal: Yankees checking on Roy
Smilin' Ken Rosenthal is reminding us:
As usual, do not rule out Yankees on anything. Bench, bullpen (are) priorities, but checking on Oswalt, Haren, even Westbrook. No on Lilly.
As usual, do not rule out Yankees on anything. Bench, bullpen (are) priorities, but checking on Oswalt, Haren, even Westbrook. No on Lilly.
Derrick Goold: Maybe, maybe not on Roy.
It seems as though Derrick Goold has some knowledge:
Houston Astros ace Roy Oswalt has told the team that if they intend to trade him his "first choice" is the St. Louis Cardinals, a league executive with knowledge of the Astros' discussions with interested teams told The Post-Dispatch...
...Without mentioning Oswalt by name, a Cardinals team official said this morning that he viewed adding an unnamed "premium player" as "a longshot." At least one team other than the Cardinals has been told the Cardinals are on top of Oswalt's preferred destinations.
Houston Astros ace Roy Oswalt has told the team that if they intend to trade him his "first choice" is the St. Louis Cardinals, a league executive with knowledge of the Astros' discussions with interested teams told The Post-Dispatch...
...Without mentioning Oswalt by name, a Cardinals team official said this morning that he viewed adding an unnamed "premium player" as "a longshot." At least one team other than the Cardinals has been told the Cardinals are on top of Oswalt's preferred destinations.
Stark has heard the same thing about Myers. And Wandy, unbelievably.
Jayson Stark's new Rumblings and Grumblings column deals with a few Astros rumors, a portion of which align with what we hear from Smilin' Ken:
But even though Myers is working on an affordable one-year, $3.1 million deal, it appears unlikely the Astros will trade him, believe it or not.
"All I can tell you is what they told us," said an executive of one club that checked in. "They said they'd have to be overwhelmed to move him or Wandy Rodriguez."
I can somewhat understand trying to hold on to Myers - key word being "somewhat." But I cannot understand declining an offer for Wandy Rodriguez, who looks like your prime example of a one-season wonder. It is absolutely ridiculous to consider dealing Roy, but not Wandy. He's in his thirties, he's inconsistent, and why not use the opportunity to just rip the band-aid off and get younger all at once?
While Myers will make $8 million if both sides exercise his option in 2011, Wandy is making $5m and is up for arbitration again. That's $15 million to two pitchers in what would obviously be a rebuilding, experience-growing year.
But even though Myers is working on an affordable one-year, $3.1 million deal, it appears unlikely the Astros will trade him, believe it or not.
"All I can tell you is what they told us," said an executive of one club that checked in. "They said they'd have to be overwhelmed to move him or Wandy Rodriguez."
I can somewhat understand trying to hold on to Myers - key word being "somewhat." But I cannot understand declining an offer for Wandy Rodriguez, who looks like your prime example of a one-season wonder. It is absolutely ridiculous to consider dealing Roy, but not Wandy. He's in his thirties, he's inconsistent, and why not use the opportunity to just rip the band-aid off and get younger all at once?
While Myers will make $8 million if both sides exercise his option in 2011, Wandy is making $5m and is up for arbitration again. That's $15 million to two pitchers in what would obviously be a rebuilding, experience-growing year.
Astros aren't sold on Shelby Miller
Smilin' Ken and JPM have combined for a post dissecting this Roy to St. Louis rumor:
The Astros like Class A right-hander Shelby Miller but aren’t sold on the 19-year-old – or any other Cardinals prospect – as the centerpiece of an Oswalt trade, the source said...
... St. Louis has the built-in disadvantage of being in the same division as Houston; some in the industry believe Astros owner Drayton McLane wants to avoid dealing Oswalt within the National League Central.
Still, it is far too early to count out the Cardinals. The Astros presently hope to get both salary relief and a package of premium prospects. Reality may dictate that they back off one demand in order to satisfy the other.
And what about trading Brett Myers?
Right-handed starter Brett Myers is having a very good season and has attracted interest from multiple clubs. But two sources said the Astros will need to be overwhelmed in order to move him, citing the team’s hope that he could be a foundation for future rotations.
This is preposterous. Because Myers has been pitching at a level much higher than a $5m pitcher. And while Myers may enjoy pitching in Houston, he still has that mutual option (for $8m) which he can decline and go on the market this offseason to get a multi-year deal. If the Astros are confident that they can avoid that, it'll take more money to give to Myers. And if it's going to take 2+ seasons to get back to being respectable, then just pull the trigger on Myers, already.
The Astros like Class A right-hander Shelby Miller but aren’t sold on the 19-year-old – or any other Cardinals prospect – as the centerpiece of an Oswalt trade, the source said...
... St. Louis has the built-in disadvantage of being in the same division as Houston; some in the industry believe Astros owner Drayton McLane wants to avoid dealing Oswalt within the National League Central.
Still, it is far too early to count out the Cardinals. The Astros presently hope to get both salary relief and a package of premium prospects. Reality may dictate that they back off one demand in order to satisfy the other.
And what about trading Brett Myers?
Right-handed starter Brett Myers is having a very good season and has attracted interest from multiple clubs. But two sources said the Astros will need to be overwhelmed in order to move him, citing the team’s hope that he could be a foundation for future rotations.
This is preposterous. Because Myers has been pitching at a level much higher than a $5m pitcher. And while Myers may enjoy pitching in Houston, he still has that mutual option (for $8m) which he can decline and go on the market this offseason to get a multi-year deal. If the Astros are confident that they can avoid that, it'll take more money to give to Myers. And if it's going to take 2+ seasons to get back to being respectable, then just pull the trigger on Myers, already.
St. Louis media is jumping all over this Roy character
Bernie Miklasz has a new article weighing the Pros and Cons of trading Roy Oswalt. While I dislike the Cardinals with the fire of 1,000 suns (and the Cubs with the fire of 998 suns), I do enjoy their beat reporters and their bloggers.
First Miklasz:
If he is desperate to get to St. Louis and wants to restructure his contract in a major way to make his escape from a depressing situation in Houston, this could happen. Without a serious contract revision, I wouldn't take the speculation seriously. My connections were downplaying the possibility this morning, because the Oswalt contract math is bad math for the Cardinals. And if the Astros make ridiculous demands, the Cardinals won't make this deal. But perhaps Oswalt will pressure Houston management to get this done. Because he has the contractual power to veto trades and could use this to push his way to STL.
Miklasz's "Why it Makes Sense:"
-Roy is still good, and there hasn't been a decline. Yet.
-Adding Oswalt would mean that Jaime Garcia is, at worst, SP4.
-That's one heckuva playoff rotation.
-If the Cardinals don't think they can re-sign Pujols, then they need to go for a title run this year.
-Oswalt doesn't have any ego issues. Unless you call being a titty-baby an ego issue. Then there's a minor one.
Miklasz's "Why it Doesn't Make Sense:"
-Payroll, if the Cardinals do re-sign Pujols.
Perhaps Oswalt will do a massive restructuring to help the Cardinals out. Again, I have no idea. Yes he wants to pitch here. That much already has been established. But that doesn't mean he's going to give up a bunch of money. If Oswalt is willing to sacrifice a lot of money, then Cardinals fans would have even more reasons to love him.
-Oswalt's back problems could crop up at any moment.
-This is no way to run a franchise, trading prospects for 30-something veterans. (See: Astros, Houston.)
-The Cardinals really need offense.
That's one more Pro than Con, according to Miklasz.
First Miklasz:
If he is desperate to get to St. Louis and wants to restructure his contract in a major way to make his escape from a depressing situation in Houston, this could happen. Without a serious contract revision, I wouldn't take the speculation seriously. My connections were downplaying the possibility this morning, because the Oswalt contract math is bad math for the Cardinals. And if the Astros make ridiculous demands, the Cardinals won't make this deal. But perhaps Oswalt will pressure Houston management to get this done. Because he has the contractual power to veto trades and could use this to push his way to STL.
Miklasz's "Why it Makes Sense:"
-Roy is still good, and there hasn't been a decline. Yet.
-Adding Oswalt would mean that Jaime Garcia is, at worst, SP4.
-That's one heckuva playoff rotation.
-If the Cardinals don't think they can re-sign Pujols, then they need to go for a title run this year.
-Oswalt doesn't have any ego issues. Unless you call being a titty-baby an ego issue. Then there's a minor one.
Miklasz's "Why it Doesn't Make Sense:"
-Payroll, if the Cardinals do re-sign Pujols.
Perhaps Oswalt will do a massive restructuring to help the Cardinals out. Again, I have no idea. Yes he wants to pitch here. That much already has been established. But that doesn't mean he's going to give up a bunch of money. If Oswalt is willing to sacrifice a lot of money, then Cardinals fans would have even more reasons to love him.
-Oswalt's back problems could crop up at any moment.
-This is no way to run a franchise, trading prospects for 30-something veterans. (See: Astros, Houston.)
-The Cardinals really need offense.
That's one more Pro than Con, according to Miklasz.
Ryan Halstead going to Indiana
36th Round pick Ryan Halstead won't be signing with the Astros, but will head to IU.
The Way I See It, There Are Three Possibilities
So I've been thinking about these latest rounds of Roy-mors. And I can come to three conclusions/observations.
*This process - the long, drawn-out, two month process - of Roy asking to be traded, has shown that he isn't the most honest guy in the world. There's a possibility that Roy is kind of a douche. This shouldn't be a surprise, but it's caught me off-guard. From his initial "this isn't about the Astros not doing well, it's about wanting to win" argument was ridiculous to begin with. But to claim that he just wants to go to a contender, and then apparently wanting the Phillies to exercise that '12 option 18 months in advance shows that it's about money, too. Going back and being willing to play with the option for the Cardinals shows that it's not even about going to a contender. Roy said he wanted to win. The Phillies are set up pretty well to be even better in 2011, if they don't get it done this year. So not only does Roy want to win, he wants to win RIGHT NOW.
Roy also said that any deal has to work for both the Astros and him. The better deal for the franchise - which it seems like he doesn't care too much about, anymore - is the potential three-team deal with the Phillies and Rays. The Cardinals don't have the depth the Rays do. But by complicating that move, the clear decision he's made is What Works Best For Him.
*There's another possibility that his agent is the one calling the shots. With the Bob Garber post, he seems to have his clients maintain a trust with him (Boehringer, Martin), believing that he has the business side under control, and then doign whatever benefits him. This is somewhat sunk by the Roy going through Cardinal channels aspect of this rumor. Maybe Roy is complicating the move on purpose, because he's trying to pick and choose. Ordinarily, I would feel that a pitcher of his caliber deserves that right, but not in this case. We can't eliminate the possibility that Roy hasn't done anything to deserve the vitriol.
*There's another strong possibility that the media is being manipulated - on any and all sides - to create a market. Roy has very little to say. His agent has nothing public to say. The Astros don't have much to say, and despite how ramped up the rumors get, they say the same thing. Other front offices aren't talking, yet these little nuggets keep getting dropped like the dog had too many kibbles. So who is leaking the information? Could be anybody. Regardless...
*It has come to the point where Roy has to be traded. I was moderately okay with him going to the Phillies, although it's getting boring - this replacing the 25-man roster with Phillies. And losing Roy would be like getting dumped. But now that Roy wants to go to the Cardinals, it's gotten personal. Roy is running the risk of going all Lyla Garrity on us.
I feel like I am fairly representative of all Astros fans (if a little detail-oriented). I can't get on board with seeing Oswalt in a Cardinals jersey, even if the Apparatus does fleece what's left of the Cardinals' system. I've never understood how players (*cough* Clemens *cough*) could go from the Red Sox to the Yankees (though have you noticed how few Yankees go to the Red Sox) It's the business side of the game, and Roy is getting his money whether we like him or not. But for once, it would be nice for the player to realize that the fans provide the opportunity to make baseball a business. I thought Roy might have been that guy. He's not.
*This process - the long, drawn-out, two month process - of Roy asking to be traded, has shown that he isn't the most honest guy in the world. There's a possibility that Roy is kind of a douche. This shouldn't be a surprise, but it's caught me off-guard. From his initial "this isn't about the Astros not doing well, it's about wanting to win" argument was ridiculous to begin with. But to claim that he just wants to go to a contender, and then apparently wanting the Phillies to exercise that '12 option 18 months in advance shows that it's about money, too. Going back and being willing to play with the option for the Cardinals shows that it's not even about going to a contender. Roy said he wanted to win. The Phillies are set up pretty well to be even better in 2011, if they don't get it done this year. So not only does Roy want to win, he wants to win RIGHT NOW.
Roy also said that any deal has to work for both the Astros and him. The better deal for the franchise - which it seems like he doesn't care too much about, anymore - is the potential three-team deal with the Phillies and Rays. The Cardinals don't have the depth the Rays do. But by complicating that move, the clear decision he's made is What Works Best For Him.
*There's another possibility that his agent is the one calling the shots. With the Bob Garber post, he seems to have his clients maintain a trust with him (Boehringer, Martin), believing that he has the business side under control, and then doign whatever benefits him. This is somewhat sunk by the Roy going through Cardinal channels aspect of this rumor. Maybe Roy is complicating the move on purpose, because he's trying to pick and choose. Ordinarily, I would feel that a pitcher of his caliber deserves that right, but not in this case. We can't eliminate the possibility that Roy hasn't done anything to deserve the vitriol.
*There's another strong possibility that the media is being manipulated - on any and all sides - to create a market. Roy has very little to say. His agent has nothing public to say. The Astros don't have much to say, and despite how ramped up the rumors get, they say the same thing. Other front offices aren't talking, yet these little nuggets keep getting dropped like the dog had too many kibbles. So who is leaking the information? Could be anybody. Regardless...
*It has come to the point where Roy has to be traded. I was moderately okay with him going to the Phillies, although it's getting boring - this replacing the 25-man roster with Phillies. And losing Roy would be like getting dumped. But now that Roy wants to go to the Cardinals, it's gotten personal. Roy is running the risk of going all Lyla Garrity on us.
I feel like I am fairly representative of all Astros fans (if a little detail-oriented). I can't get on board with seeing Oswalt in a Cardinals jersey, even if the Apparatus does fleece what's left of the Cardinals' system. I've never understood how players (*cough* Clemens *cough*) could go from the Red Sox to the Yankees (though have you noticed how few Yankees go to the Red Sox) It's the business side of the game, and Roy is getting his money whether we like him or not. But for once, it would be nice for the player to realize that the fans provide the opportunity to make baseball a business. I thought Roy might have been that guy. He's not.
Angels are five back, and not desperate enough for Berkman
The Angels are kinda sorta hanging around in the AL West race, but Fox Sports' Jon Paul Morosi says they're not desperate enough to take on Berkman's contract.
A big story on Josh Flores that doesn't mention that 50-Game Suspension thing
Josh Flores' hometown paper, the Herald-Tribune, outside of Chicago has a big story on the return of Josh Flores, who was released by the Astros last month, to the Joliet Jackhammers. The story focuses on his knees.
Manager Chad Parker:
"The people we talked to from Houston told us great things about him. I'm sure he would still be with the Astros if not for the knee injuries. Now he's got to prove he can put up good numbers with the injuries."
Flores:
The knee injuries only affected my speed, not my power. Of course, one of my main tools is to run hard and pick up on mistakes other teams make. I can go hard straight out right now. But with the knee, I'm not sure how well it will hold up if I move side to side a lot...
...I was going up quick, on the fast track for a while. But then in Double-A (the highest level he reached), I kind of plateaud."
Do you think they know about that little 50-game suspension?
Manager Chad Parker:
"The people we talked to from Houston told us great things about him. I'm sure he would still be with the Astros if not for the knee injuries. Now he's got to prove he can put up good numbers with the injuries."
Flores:
The knee injuries only affected my speed, not my power. Of course, one of my main tools is to run hard and pick up on mistakes other teams make. I can go hard straight out right now. But with the knee, I'm not sure how well it will hold up if I move side to side a lot...
...I was going up quick, on the fast track for a while. But then in Double-A (the highest level he reached), I kind of plateaud."
Do you think they know about that little 50-game suspension?
Roy's may not require the Cardinals to pick up his 2012 option
Late night report with Brian McTaggart and Matthew H. Leach on the ongoing saga of Roy Oswalt, and we even see a rumor that Roy would not require his 2012 option to be picked up if he's traded to the Cardinals - something I bet the Phillies aren't real happy to see. And something that kind of blows my "Roy doesn't know what's going on with his option/Bob Garber is a douchebag" theory.
Apparently the Cardinals are willing to dangle top pitching prospect (albeit at Low-A) Shelby Miller as trade bait:
The Cards' most compelling potential trading chip for most teams would seem to be 2009 first-round Draft pick Shelby Miller, a right-hander who has been on a roll lately at low Class A Quad Cities. Farm director Jeff Luhnow was given the opportunity on Wednesday to classify Miller as untouchable, but declined to do so. He said the right-hander quite surely would not be moved for a two-month rental player, but that for a longer-term upgrade, any and all prospects could conceivably be in play.
Miller was the Cardinals' 1st round pick (19th overall), and is a 19-year old RHP from Brownwood, Texas. He has 81 strikeouts in 57.1IP with a 4.40 ERA/1.34 WHIP.
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch's Joe Strauss seconds the rumor that Roy is willing to work with the Cardinals about that pesky $16 million option:
Oswalt lists the Cardinals among his preferred landing spots. He has also told acquaintances with ties to the club that he would be willing to be more flexible regarding his 2012 option. As rumor of the Cardinals' interest in Oswalt spread Wednesday night, several players embraced the potential move.
Who does Strauss see as return pieces for the Astros?
The Cardinals suddenly possess a surplus of outfielders when Ryan Ludwick (calf strain) returns from a rehab assignment. Jon Jay and Allen Craig have been particularly impressive in Ludwick's absence. With Holliday and center fielder Colby Rasmus entrenched in the team's plans and Ludwick under control through next season, the club could include one of its younger outfielders in a deal with young pitching.
After having a night to think about it, I still hate the idea of seeing Roy in a Cardinals jersey for the next year and a half.
Apparently the Cardinals are willing to dangle top pitching prospect (albeit at Low-A) Shelby Miller as trade bait:
The Cards' most compelling potential trading chip for most teams would seem to be 2009 first-round Draft pick Shelby Miller, a right-hander who has been on a roll lately at low Class A Quad Cities. Farm director Jeff Luhnow was given the opportunity on Wednesday to classify Miller as untouchable, but declined to do so. He said the right-hander quite surely would not be moved for a two-month rental player, but that for a longer-term upgrade, any and all prospects could conceivably be in play.
Miller was the Cardinals' 1st round pick (19th overall), and is a 19-year old RHP from Brownwood, Texas. He has 81 strikeouts in 57.1IP with a 4.40 ERA/1.34 WHIP.
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch's Joe Strauss seconds the rumor that Roy is willing to work with the Cardinals about that pesky $16 million option:
Oswalt lists the Cardinals among his preferred landing spots. He has also told acquaintances with ties to the club that he would be willing to be more flexible regarding his 2012 option. As rumor of the Cardinals' interest in Oswalt spread Wednesday night, several players embraced the potential move.
Who does Strauss see as return pieces for the Astros?
The Cardinals suddenly possess a surplus of outfielders when Ryan Ludwick (calf strain) returns from a rehab assignment. Jon Jay and Allen Craig have been particularly impressive in Ludwick's absence. With Holliday and center fielder Colby Rasmus entrenched in the team's plans and Ludwick under control through next season, the club could include one of its younger outfielders in a deal with young pitching.
After having a night to think about it, I still hate the idea of seeing Roy in a Cardinals jersey for the next year and a half.
Tranzactionz
Couple of notes for you:
-Robby Donovan has been assigned to Lancaster from Lexington to fill Dallas Keuchel's roster spot.
-Angel Gonzalez has been assigned to the GCL Astros from Greeneville.
-Robby Donovan has been assigned to Lancaster from Lexington to fill Dallas Keuchel's roster spot.
-Angel Gonzalez has been assigned to the GCL Astros from Greeneville.
Eddie's Farm: July 21
Round Rock
The Express were able to recover after allowing a 6-run 6th by putting up a 7-run 7th for an 11-8 win over New Orleans. Sergio Perez allowing 3H/4R (3ER), 2K:5BB, 2WP, 1HR in 5IP. Yorman Bazardo allowed 5H/4ER in 1IP, while T.J. Burton got the win by striking out the side in the 7th. Brad Thompson allowed a hit in the 8th, and Roy Corcoran struck out two in the 9th. Brian Bogusevic was 3x3 with two walks, a homer, two stolen bases, and 4RBI. Edwin Maysonet was 3x5 with an RBI and Drew Locke hit a 2-run double.
Man of the Match: Brian Bogusevic.
Corpus
Midland took advantage of a 4-run 3rd inning to go on to a 5-3 win over Corpus. Lyles struck out 11 and walked just two in 6.2IP, but he also gave up 9H/5ER for the loss. Erick Abreu got an out, Arcenio Leon struck out one and walked one in 1IP, and Evan Englebrook got two strikeouts and allowed one hit in 1IP. Jack Shuck and J.D. Martinez (1RBI) had two hits each, while Jon Gaston hit his 7th homer of the season - a 2-run shot - and also drew a walk. Jose Vallejo struck out three more times in another 0x4 night. He's 3x34 with 15Ks in his last ten games.
Man of the Match: Jon Gaston
Lancaster
How about that? Lancaster shuts Visalia down with a 4-hit shutout for the 7-0 win. Leandro Cespedes threw 7IP, 3H/0ER, 8K:2BB and Mike Modica allowed 1H/0ER, 1K in 2IP. Jay Austin (2x4, 2RBI), Brandon Barnes, Federico Hernandez (1RBI, BB), Barry Butera (2RBI), and Brandon Wikoff (2RBI) had two hits each. The 7-8-9-1 spots went a combined 8x14, 3K:0BB, 7RBI - and Jay Austin stole his 40th base of the season.
Man of the Match: Leandro Cespedes
Lexington
The Legends tried to make a game of it, but Rome just scored too often for a 9-5 win over Lexington. Juan Minaya allowed 5H/6ER, 2K:6BB, HBP in 4.2IP. Dan Sarisky allowed a hit scoring one of Minaya's runs, and Brad Dydalewicz - coming out of the bullpen - allowed 3H/1ER in 1IP. Brenden Stines allowed 3H/2ER, 2K:1BB in 2IP. Jose Altuve (BB, RBI) and Kody Hinze (2B, RBI) had two hits each, while Our Boy Aaron Bray hit a double and Jonathan Meyer and Brian Kemp (RBI, outfield assist) added hits. Jiovanni Mier was back in the #2 spot, and dropped an 0x5 day.
Man of the Match: Jose Altuve
Tri-City
The ValleyCats scored in five different innings for a 6-2 win over Aberdeen. Jake Buchanan allowed 5H/1ER, 2K:0BB in 5.2IP. Andrew Robinson allowed 1H/1ER in 1.1IP, and Travis Blankenship struck out two in 1.1IP. Jorge De Leon closed it out with 2H/0ER, 1K:1BB in 0.2IP. It was close, by De Leon still has not allowed an earned run this season - his first since being converted to a reliever from shorstop. Ben Heath (BB, RBI), Mike Kvasnicka (2B, 3B, RBI), and Buck Afenir (2B, 2RBI) had two hits each, while Ben Orloff was 1x1 with a walk and 2HBP.
Man of the Match: Buck Afenir
Greeneville
Greeneville got out to a 4-0 lead at the end of the third and rode it out for a 5-1 win over Bristol. Euris Quezada allowed 5H/1ER, 3K:0BB in 7IP for his second win of the season and Jeiler Castillo allowed 2H/0ER, 1K:1BB in 2IP. Chris Wallace, Telvin Nash (HR, 3RBI), and Carlos Mojica (2B) had two hits each, with Ricardo Garcia, Rafael Valenzuela, and Bryce Lane adding hits.
Man of the Match: Telvin Nash.
GCL Astros
Off.
The Express were able to recover after allowing a 6-run 6th by putting up a 7-run 7th for an 11-8 win over New Orleans. Sergio Perez allowing 3H/4R (3ER), 2K:5BB, 2WP, 1HR in 5IP. Yorman Bazardo allowed 5H/4ER in 1IP, while T.J. Burton got the win by striking out the side in the 7th. Brad Thompson allowed a hit in the 8th, and Roy Corcoran struck out two in the 9th. Brian Bogusevic was 3x3 with two walks, a homer, two stolen bases, and 4RBI. Edwin Maysonet was 3x5 with an RBI and Drew Locke hit a 2-run double.
Man of the Match: Brian Bogusevic.
Corpus
Midland took advantage of a 4-run 3rd inning to go on to a 5-3 win over Corpus. Lyles struck out 11 and walked just two in 6.2IP, but he also gave up 9H/5ER for the loss. Erick Abreu got an out, Arcenio Leon struck out one and walked one in 1IP, and Evan Englebrook got two strikeouts and allowed one hit in 1IP. Jack Shuck and J.D. Martinez (1RBI) had two hits each, while Jon Gaston hit his 7th homer of the season - a 2-run shot - and also drew a walk. Jose Vallejo struck out three more times in another 0x4 night. He's 3x34 with 15Ks in his last ten games.
Man of the Match: Jon Gaston
Lancaster
How about that? Lancaster shuts Visalia down with a 4-hit shutout for the 7-0 win. Leandro Cespedes threw 7IP, 3H/0ER, 8K:2BB and Mike Modica allowed 1H/0ER, 1K in 2IP. Jay Austin (2x4, 2RBI), Brandon Barnes, Federico Hernandez (1RBI, BB), Barry Butera (2RBI), and Brandon Wikoff (2RBI) had two hits each. The 7-8-9-1 spots went a combined 8x14, 3K:0BB, 7RBI - and Jay Austin stole his 40th base of the season.
Man of the Match: Leandro Cespedes
Lexington
The Legends tried to make a game of it, but Rome just scored too often for a 9-5 win over Lexington. Juan Minaya allowed 5H/6ER, 2K:6BB, HBP in 4.2IP. Dan Sarisky allowed a hit scoring one of Minaya's runs, and Brad Dydalewicz - coming out of the bullpen - allowed 3H/1ER in 1IP. Brenden Stines allowed 3H/2ER, 2K:1BB in 2IP. Jose Altuve (BB, RBI) and Kody Hinze (2B, RBI) had two hits each, while Our Boy Aaron Bray hit a double and Jonathan Meyer and Brian Kemp (RBI, outfield assist) added hits. Jiovanni Mier was back in the #2 spot, and dropped an 0x5 day.
Man of the Match: Jose Altuve
Tri-City
The ValleyCats scored in five different innings for a 6-2 win over Aberdeen. Jake Buchanan allowed 5H/1ER, 2K:0BB in 5.2IP. Andrew Robinson allowed 1H/1ER in 1.1IP, and Travis Blankenship struck out two in 1.1IP. Jorge De Leon closed it out with 2H/0ER, 1K:1BB in 0.2IP. It was close, by De Leon still has not allowed an earned run this season - his first since being converted to a reliever from shorstop. Ben Heath (BB, RBI), Mike Kvasnicka (2B, 3B, RBI), and Buck Afenir (2B, 2RBI) had two hits each, while Ben Orloff was 1x1 with a walk and 2HBP.
Man of the Match: Buck Afenir
Greeneville
Greeneville got out to a 4-0 lead at the end of the third and rode it out for a 5-1 win over Bristol. Euris Quezada allowed 5H/1ER, 3K:0BB in 7IP for his second win of the season and Jeiler Castillo allowed 2H/0ER, 1K:1BB in 2IP. Chris Wallace, Telvin Nash (HR, 3RBI), and Carlos Mojica (2B) had two hits each, with Ricardo Garcia, Rafael Valenzuela, and Bryce Lane adding hits.
Man of the Match: Telvin Nash.
GCL Astros
Off.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
And now, we listen to our stomach turn with the sound of our Astros forefathers spinning in their graves
Sit down. Just...sit down. Everybody's fine. Don't worry. But there's something you need to know.
The St. Louis Cardinals are reportedly the front-runners for the services of Roy Oswalt.
Calcaterra, who is a reputable deliverer of news:
The Astros have been talking with Cardinals GM John Mozeliak for several days now, and Oswalt is quite amenable to go to St. Louis if the teams can agree on what players will head back to Houston...
...My source tells me, however, that Oswalt would be willing to work with the Cardinals to make the option more palatable, possibly in terms of deferring some money. The sides aren't quite that far yet.
Calcaterra later tweets:
As for player(s) back to HOU: there has been talk of Shelby Miller, but it's fluid. Deal is not imminent, but there has been a lot of talk.
A preview of what will happen in the Astros County Square if this takes place:
The St. Louis Cardinals are reportedly the front-runners for the services of Roy Oswalt.
Calcaterra, who is a reputable deliverer of news:
The Astros have been talking with Cardinals GM John Mozeliak for several days now, and Oswalt is quite amenable to go to St. Louis if the teams can agree on what players will head back to Houston...
...My source tells me, however, that Oswalt would be willing to work with the Cardinals to make the option more palatable, possibly in terms of deferring some money. The sides aren't quite that far yet.
Calcaterra later tweets:
As for player(s) back to HOU: there has been talk of Shelby Miller, but it's fluid. Deal is not imminent, but there has been a lot of talk.
A preview of what will happen in the Astros County Square if this takes place:
Bob Garber doesn't have the cleanest track record
While I try to piece my mind back together after seeing Inception, let's focus on Roy's response.
First, Roy claims to not know what the heck is going on with his option for 2012:
"I don't handle that part of it."
I actually believe him here. I bet he doesn't know about what his agent - Bob Garber - is demanding right now. Because this wouldn't be Garber's first rodeo in this scenario.
Second, if we get back in the Wayback Machine, we can read about Garber's previous history, with pitcher Brian Boehringer. In this instance, at least, we read:
Coming off the 2002 season with Pittsburgh, Brian wanted to sign with St. Louis. He's from the area, wanted to live at home during the season and knew the Cardinals were always a competitive team. He instructed Bob to try to get a deal done.
Here's where it gets murky.
Mr. Garber told Brian the best he could get was an $850,000 deal with St. Louis. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh was the only other team that was interested, to the tune of 2 years and $3.5 million. Brian took his agent's word and signed with the Pirates. Today, Brian says the deal was best for Bob Garber, not him. The deal Brian signed earned the most money that Bob Garber could have gotten, so he pushed that one on Brian...
...He lost 2005 to injury, but felt great going into spring training, 2006. Brian asked his agent to call around and get him any deal possible. According to Brian, he didn't do it. How does Brian know? He said he personally called and was able to secure his own deal with the Cubs after a conversation with Dusty Baker. When he spoke with teams, they told him nobody had called them about Brian Boehringer.
Third, if you look at Roy's phrasing, it's eerily similar to the phrasing of another Bob Garber client, Russell Martin from 2008:
Early this offseason, his agent, Bob Garber, received a phone call from assistant general manager Kim Ng looking to discuss a possible multi-year contract extension for Martin, who won't turn 25 until next week. According to General Manager Ned Colletti, Garber declined, and no offer was ever extended.
"It's kind of a touchy thing," Martin said Tuesday at the Dodgers Community Caravan event at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. "I told (Garber) if it wasn't going to be a good offer not to even bother, so that's the conversation that they had...
...I know how it works. It just hasn't entered my mind yet because this is a dream I'm living. It still hasn't sunk in yet. That's the business side of baseball I don't really worry about. Whenever the time will be to discuss that, I'll be ready."
Way to stick with the party line, fellas. I'm sure this happens more often than we ever hear about. But I'm leaning towards believing Roy. I don't like him any more than I did this afternoon, but I believe him.
First, Roy claims to not know what the heck is going on with his option for 2012:
"I don't handle that part of it."
I actually believe him here. I bet he doesn't know about what his agent - Bob Garber - is demanding right now. Because this wouldn't be Garber's first rodeo in this scenario.
Second, if we get back in the Wayback Machine, we can read about Garber's previous history, with pitcher Brian Boehringer. In this instance, at least, we read:
Coming off the 2002 season with Pittsburgh, Brian wanted to sign with St. Louis. He's from the area, wanted to live at home during the season and knew the Cardinals were always a competitive team. He instructed Bob to try to get a deal done.
Here's where it gets murky.
Mr. Garber told Brian the best he could get was an $850,000 deal with St. Louis. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh was the only other team that was interested, to the tune of 2 years and $3.5 million. Brian took his agent's word and signed with the Pirates. Today, Brian says the deal was best for Bob Garber, not him. The deal Brian signed earned the most money that Bob Garber could have gotten, so he pushed that one on Brian...
...He lost 2005 to injury, but felt great going into spring training, 2006. Brian asked his agent to call around and get him any deal possible. According to Brian, he didn't do it. How does Brian know? He said he personally called and was able to secure his own deal with the Cubs after a conversation with Dusty Baker. When he spoke with teams, they told him nobody had called them about Brian Boehringer.
Third, if you look at Roy's phrasing, it's eerily similar to the phrasing of another Bob Garber client, Russell Martin from 2008:
Early this offseason, his agent, Bob Garber, received a phone call from assistant general manager Kim Ng looking to discuss a possible multi-year contract extension for Martin, who won't turn 25 until next week. According to General Manager Ned Colletti, Garber declined, and no offer was ever extended.
"It's kind of a touchy thing," Martin said Tuesday at the Dodgers Community Caravan event at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. "I told (Garber) if it wasn't going to be a good offer not to even bother, so that's the conversation that they had...
...I know how it works. It just hasn't entered my mind yet because this is a dream I'm living. It still hasn't sunk in yet. That's the business side of baseball I don't really worry about. Whenever the time will be to discuss that, I'll be ready."
Way to stick with the party line, fellas. I'm sure this happens more often than we ever hear about. But I'm leaning towards believing Roy. I don't like him any more than I did this afternoon, but I believe him.
Heyman's Roy update
Jon Heyman just tweeted that the current plan is as follows:
Phillies said talking to Rays about Werth for prospects, then sending prospects to Astros for Oswalt. On SI.com soon.
I did him the solid of capitalizing his proper nouns, since trade rumors wait for no shift key.
Phillies said talking to Rays about Werth for prospects, then sending prospects to Astros for Oswalt. On SI.com soon.
I did him the solid of capitalizing his proper nouns, since trade rumors wait for no shift key.
Kvasnicka: Baseball is a faithless bitch
In the latest and greatest Cats Corner we read about Mike Kvasnicka's well-documented early struggles (did anyone else know about the hand injury? For some reason, we didn't.) But he's still confident it'll come around:
"I've been [practicing] my right-handed swing a lot because we haven't seen a lot of lefties. But I got an at-bat lefthanded [in the 10th], and I was thinking about mechanical things to make the switch back over, and I wasn't ready to hit because of it. I had been swinging the bat well lefty, but I let the mental side take over for a few pitches there.
In the last week and a half, I've had a lot of lineouts. Baseball's a cruel game in that sense - once you start feeling good, you're not going to be hitting .400 the rest of the year. There's been definite progress in the cage work and in batting practice, so it should come around."
We also find out that Tommy Shirley has re-aggravated a knee injury. Manager Jim Pankovits:
"We don't think it's serious - it wasn't serious before - but we're being cautious with him."
"I've been [practicing] my right-handed swing a lot because we haven't seen a lot of lefties. But I got an at-bat lefthanded [in the 10th], and I was thinking about mechanical things to make the switch back over, and I wasn't ready to hit because of it. I had been swinging the bat well lefty, but I let the mental side take over for a few pitches there.
In the last week and a half, I've had a lot of lineouts. Baseball's a cruel game in that sense - once you start feeling good, you're not going to be hitting .400 the rest of the year. There's been definite progress in the cage work and in batting practice, so it should come around."
We also find out that Tommy Shirley has re-aggravated a knee injury. Manager Jim Pankovits:
"We don't think it's serious - it wasn't serious before - but we're being cautious with him."
Anderson/Figueroa about depth and injuries
Within Brian McTaggart's Notebook we see that the waiver claims today of Anderson Hernandez and Nelson Figueroa have more to do with the team today much of anything else.
Wade, on Hernandez:
"He's a good defensive infielder, and our guys have liked him. At one time, he was a pretty significant prospect in the Mets organization. We like his hands and his defensive ability, and he can swing the bat a little bit."
And at one point, I was a prospect as a politician based on my showing in the race for Junior Class Vice President.
Wade, on Figueroa:
"He gives us more depth and experience with the health issues we have right now."
-
Mills also says that Wesley Wright should get another start:
"I think with the way he threw yesterday, he deserves another start, if a spot opens up for him to make that start. The way Wes threw the ball last night, a corner has been turned with him putting it together in Round Rock like he did his last three outings. Do we want Wes in the bullpen to have those three lefties in the 'pen, or have Moehler solidify the bullpen a little bit? We'll have to look at who we're facing and see how Moehler is. We have to wait and see how he is first."
Please, please, please. Put Moehler in the bullpen, and let Wright continue to get stretched out as a starter. If they don't do that, then the last year of Wright's career has been wasted.
Wade, on Hernandez:
"He's a good defensive infielder, and our guys have liked him. At one time, he was a pretty significant prospect in the Mets organization. We like his hands and his defensive ability, and he can swing the bat a little bit."
And at one point, I was a prospect as a politician based on my showing in the race for Junior Class Vice President.
Wade, on Figueroa:
"He gives us more depth and experience with the health issues we have right now."
-
Mills also says that Wesley Wright should get another start:
"I think with the way he threw yesterday, he deserves another start, if a spot opens up for him to make that start. The way Wes threw the ball last night, a corner has been turned with him putting it together in Round Rock like he did his last three outings. Do we want Wes in the bullpen to have those three lefties in the 'pen, or have Moehler solidify the bullpen a little bit? We'll have to look at who we're facing and see how Moehler is. We have to wait and see how he is first."
Please, please, please. Put Moehler in the bullpen, and let Wright continue to get stretched out as a starter. If they don't do that, then the last year of Wright's career has been wasted.
Rounding up the Roy-mors
So, as I was away for part of the day, let's do a quick recap on the events transpiring with this whole "Roy to Philly" thing.
Drayton McLane says nothing is imminent as far as Roy is concerned:
"Ed and I talk several times every day, but nothing's imminent. Trades really don't get done [until close to the Deadline]. There is no imminent trade with the Phillies or anybody else. There have been lots and lots of discussions, nothing close to a trade."
However, Jayson Stark has a full report from Ruben Amaro's nether regions that Roy won't approve a trade unless the team picks up his 2012 option for $16 million.
Stark:
The Phillies are believed to be amenable to paying most of the $25 million he's owed through next year, but have shown no inclination to pick up the option year.
J.A. Happ is rumored to be in the deal to acquire Roy (and Doug Brocail was in Indianapolis last night watching Happ), as well as "one or two" prospects at the Single-A level - with the exception of Single-A 1B Jonathan Singleton.
Stark:
So with the Oswalt talks on shaky ground, the Phillies continue to explore other options for upgrading their rotation.
If this deal doesn't get done because Roy wants an option exercised 18 months in advance, I literally might tear my hair out.
Drayton McLane says nothing is imminent as far as Roy is concerned:
"Ed and I talk several times every day, but nothing's imminent. Trades really don't get done [until close to the Deadline]. There is no imminent trade with the Phillies or anybody else. There have been lots and lots of discussions, nothing close to a trade."
However, Jayson Stark has a full report from Ruben Amaro's nether regions that Roy won't approve a trade unless the team picks up his 2012 option for $16 million.
Stark:
The Phillies are believed to be amenable to paying most of the $25 million he's owed through next year, but have shown no inclination to pick up the option year.
J.A. Happ is rumored to be in the deal to acquire Roy (and Doug Brocail was in Indianapolis last night watching Happ), as well as "one or two" prospects at the Single-A level - with the exception of Single-A 1B Jonathan Singleton.
Stark:
So with the Oswalt talks on shaky ground, the Phillies continue to explore other options for upgrading their rotation.
If this deal doesn't get done because Roy wants an option exercised 18 months in advance, I literally might tear my hair out.
Astros claim Anderson Hernandez and Nelson Figueroa
The Astros have made a pair of waiver claims this afternoon - 27 year old switch-hitting infielder Anderson Hernandez from the Indians and 36-year old RHP Nelson Figueroa from the Phillies.
Hernandez had appeared in 22 games for the Indians this season, hitting .245/.300/.321 for the Big Club, and .234/.280/.275 for Triple-A Columbus.
Figueroa had posted a 3-0 record in 19IP with a 0.95 ERA/0.68 WHIP for Triple-A Lehigh Valley, and is 2-1 in 26IP with a 3.46 ERA/1.16 WHIP for the Phillies.
Not bad for minor-league depth, eh? Wait. What's this? The Astros have designated Gary Majewski and Polin Trinidad for assignment so that both Hernandez and Figueroa can join the team on Friday in Cincinnati.
Hernandez had appeared in 22 games for the Indians this season, hitting .245/.300/.321 for the Big Club, and .234/.280/.275 for Triple-A Columbus.
Figueroa had posted a 3-0 record in 19IP with a 0.95 ERA/0.68 WHIP for Triple-A Lehigh Valley, and is 2-1 in 26IP with a 3.46 ERA/1.16 WHIP for the Phillies.
Not bad for minor-league depth, eh? Wait. What's this? The Astros have designated Gary Majewski and Polin Trinidad for assignment so that both Hernandez and Figueroa can join the team on Friday in Cincinnati.
Lumsden traded to San Diego
Per sources, it seems as though Tyler Lumsden has been traded to the Padres for future considerations in order to make room for Dallas Keuchel.
Remember, Jordan Parraz was traded in order to get Lumsden, so we'll see if the future considerations are aligned with the rumor that the Padres are interested in Berkman playing the outfield.
Buster Olney on the Roymors
Buster Olney's new blog post leads with the Roy Situation, and mentions that Roy expressed earlier this season that he wants what Halladay had:
Roy Oswalt has wanted a chance to play for a winner, and he mused to a friend earlier this year that he wants what Roy Halladay got in the offseason -- a chance to land with a team capable of winning the World Series. And so it could be that today or tomorrow, if the Phillies and Astros work out a tentative agreement for the right-hander, Oswalt will have a chance to accept or reject the exact opportunity that Halladay had -- to pitch for the Philadelphia Phillies.
Olney points out that, while the Phillies may not be good enough to reach the World Series this year, they are positioned very well to contend for the title in 2011. And you can bet Roy is thinking about that, as well. If this comes down to Roy's decision, I think he takes it.
Roy Oswalt has wanted a chance to play for a winner, and he mused to a friend earlier this year that he wants what Roy Halladay got in the offseason -- a chance to land with a team capable of winning the World Series. And so it could be that today or tomorrow, if the Phillies and Astros work out a tentative agreement for the right-hander, Oswalt will have a chance to accept or reject the exact opportunity that Halladay had -- to pitch for the Philadelphia Phillies.
Olney points out that, while the Phillies may not be good enough to reach the World Series this year, they are positioned very well to contend for the title in 2011. And you can bet Roy is thinking about that, as well. If this comes down to Roy's decision, I think he takes it.
Paulino's rotator cuff "not catastrophic"
Ed Wade had a few things to say in McTaggart's notebook.
On Paulino:
"It's not good news, but it's not catastrophic. It's a shame because he's thrown so well, and it looked like he had turned a lot of corners this year. He's facing another setback, and he's going to be have to apply himself the same way he did in the offseason and come back as strong as he can."
On the alternatives:
"I'd love to see Wes throw well and give us some alternatives. Brian has done a real good job for us. He's been steady and reliable for us all the way through. Once he's back at 100 percent, he certainly figures back in our situation."
On Paulino:
"It's not good news, but it's not catastrophic. It's a shame because he's thrown so well, and it looked like he had turned a lot of corners this year. He's facing another setback, and he's going to be have to apply himself the same way he did in the offseason and come back as strong as he can."
On the alternatives:
"I'd love to see Wes throw well and give us some alternatives. Brian has done a real good job for us. He's been steady and reliable for us all the way through. Once he's back at 100 percent, he certainly figures back in our situation."
Berkman's option not likely to be picked up
Like this qualifies as news, but hey, we needed something to do other than hit refresh on Twitter. Berkman is preparing himself for Free Agency following this season, as it's unlikely anyone will be real interested in paying him $15 million next year.
Berkman:
"I haven’t gotten any indication that they are going to pick it up, so I think the chances are that I will be a free agent at the end of the year. It’s not concerning, but it’s certainly a position that I’ve never been in before in my career. Knowing the kind of year that I’ve had, I’d say they probably won’t pick it up. But I don’t know that for sure."
Oh, I think you do...
In McTaggart's notebook we read this:
Berkman would like to remain in Houston and hopes the club will chalk up his struggles to missing most of Spring Training and the first two weeks of the regular season after undergoing knee surgery.
"There were some extenuating circumstances where they may feel like I'm not a declining player, but just some circumstances that have kept me from performing the way I'm used to performing," Berkman said. "It's all in their court. That's the power of a team option."
So. What do you think? Can you blame this season's struggles - which are oddly similar to last season's struggles - on missing three weeks of Spring Training and two weeks of the regular season?
Berkman:
"I haven’t gotten any indication that they are going to pick it up, so I think the chances are that I will be a free agent at the end of the year. It’s not concerning, but it’s certainly a position that I’ve never been in before in my career. Knowing the kind of year that I’ve had, I’d say they probably won’t pick it up. But I don’t know that for sure."
Oh, I think you do...
In McTaggart's notebook we read this:
Berkman would like to remain in Houston and hopes the club will chalk up his struggles to missing most of Spring Training and the first two weeks of the regular season after undergoing knee surgery.
"There were some extenuating circumstances where they may feel like I'm not a declining player, but just some circumstances that have kept me from performing the way I'm used to performing," Berkman said. "It's all in their court. That's the power of a team option."
So. What do you think? Can you blame this season's struggles - which are oddly similar to last season's struggles - on missing three weeks of Spring Training and two weeks of the regular season?
On legitimacy, and Jayson Stark
Jayson Stark, from what I can tell, is the reporter who broke that the Phillies and Astros were in serious talks to move Roy Oswalt. For once, I would like the Astros to trade with another team, just to switch it up a little bit, but it is what it is.
There are countless rumors this time of year, hardly any of them worth anything other than bumping up our Post count.
But this one is different. Bernardo Fallas and Ed Price have sources who tell them the deal is close, and it's hard to imagine that the source in question is calling both Price and Fallas.
However, it's the presence of Jayson Stark - the King of Philadelphia - in this rumor cycle that tells me it's extremely legitimate. Stark represents all things Philly, and while it's pretty irritating from a standpoint of any other team in the League, if it lends some credence to this Roy-to-Philly thing, I can handle it for the next few days.
Another thing, if this rumor is true, then things are going to happen in the next 24-48 hours. The Phillies need a pitcher this weekend, and presumably the Astros would, too.
There are countless rumors this time of year, hardly any of them worth anything other than bumping up our Post count.
But this one is different. Bernardo Fallas and Ed Price have sources who tell them the deal is close, and it's hard to imagine that the source in question is calling both Price and Fallas.
However, it's the presence of Jayson Stark - the King of Philadelphia - in this rumor cycle that tells me it's extremely legitimate. Stark represents all things Philly, and while it's pretty irritating from a standpoint of any other team in the League, if it lends some credence to this Roy-to-Philly thing, I can handle it for the next few days.
Another thing, if this rumor is true, then things are going to happen in the next 24-48 hours. The Phillies need a pitcher this weekend, and presumably the Astros would, too.
Sifting through these Philadelphia Roy-mors
Bunch of links to pull from to get a sense of what's actually happening with this Roy-to-Philadelphia mess, let's take a gander:
FanHouse's Ed Price:
The Phillies and Astros were said to be working on a trade that would send Roy Oswalt to Philadelphia, two major-league sources told FanHouse on Tuesday night, although the deal would then require Oswalt's approval. One source described the talks as "heavy."
Houston "may be close to putting the ball in [Oswalt's] court," the other source said, although he didn't think the trade was down to the finishing touches.
Price does not mention the possibility of a three-team trade, but says Jayson Werth would be the logical player to be moved to clear payroll space for Roy.
-
Bernardo Fallas:
The Astros are in advanced talks with the Philadelphia Phillies regarding a potential trade, a person familiar with the situation told the Chronicle on Tuesday night...
...Oswalt has a no-trade clause in his contract and would have to approve a trade. He told the Chronicle last week he would not rule out anybody that is a contender.
These are not just "Hey! The Twins should trade for Roy, or I'm gonna be pissed!" columns. These are MLB sources talking, here. So it seems like this is more serious than an article about what Omar Minaya had for breakfast.
The lynchpin of the deal is whether or not the Phillies are able to move Jayson Werth to clear payroll space for Roy. Top prospect Domonic Brown would replace Werth.
Interestingly enough, J.A. Happ had his rehab start limited to three innings, and is scheduled to pitch "Saturday or Sunday" in Philadelphia. Or somewhere else.
FanHouse's Ed Price:
The Phillies and Astros were said to be working on a trade that would send Roy Oswalt to Philadelphia, two major-league sources told FanHouse on Tuesday night, although the deal would then require Oswalt's approval. One source described the talks as "heavy."
Houston "may be close to putting the ball in [Oswalt's] court," the other source said, although he didn't think the trade was down to the finishing touches.
Price does not mention the possibility of a three-team trade, but says Jayson Werth would be the logical player to be moved to clear payroll space for Roy.
-
Bernardo Fallas:
The Astros are in advanced talks with the Philadelphia Phillies regarding a potential trade, a person familiar with the situation told the Chronicle on Tuesday night...
...Oswalt has a no-trade clause in his contract and would have to approve a trade. He told the Chronicle last week he would not rule out anybody that is a contender.
These are not just "Hey! The Twins should trade for Roy, or I'm gonna be pissed!" columns. These are MLB sources talking, here. So it seems like this is more serious than an article about what Omar Minaya had for breakfast.
The lynchpin of the deal is whether or not the Phillies are able to move Jayson Werth to clear payroll space for Roy. Top prospect Domonic Brown would replace Werth.
Interestingly enough, J.A. Happ had his rehab start limited to three innings, and is scheduled to pitch "Saturday or Sunday" in Philadelphia. Or somewhere else.
McTaggart: Nothing imminent
There's a pattern here. Some outlet breaks that there are trade talks going on, both sides deny or clam up, and players say they don't know anything, and we move on. Occasionally somebody will complain about how blogs don't have anything to report.
Brian McTaggart says that:
Despite reports right-hander Roy Oswalt could be the target of a deal involving the pitching-thirsty Philadelphia Phillies, no deal with the Astros ace appeared imminent Tuesday night.
Brian McTaggart says that:
Despite reports right-hander Roy Oswalt could be the target of a deal involving the pitching-thirsty Philadelphia Phillies, no deal with the Astros ace appeared imminent Tuesday night.
Eddie's Farm: July 20
Round Rock
Express put up two four-run innings and defeat New Orleans 11-9. Polin Trinidad got the start, and went 4IP, 7H/5ER, 0K:3BB, 2HR. T.J. Burton took the loss, allowing 2H/2ER in 1IP. Brad Thompson and Jonah Bayliss threw scoreless innings, while Danny Meszaros struggled in his second outing - allowing 1H/2ER, 1K:3BB in 1IP. Roy Corcoran got his 6th save of the game. Brian Esposito was 3x3 with 2BB, 2RBI; Wladimir Sutil was 2x3 with 2BB, and Brian Bogusevic was 1x3 with an RBI and 2BB. Tommy Everidge hit a 2-run homer and German Duran hit a pinch-hit 3-run HR in the 5th.
Man of the Match: This is going to Brian Esposito, got on base in all five of his PAs.
Corpus
The Hooks enjoyed a 6-run outburst in the 7th for a 9-5 win over Midland. Jeremy Johnson allowed 9H/3ER, 4K:2BB in 4.2IP, with Fernando Abad picking up the win with 2.1IP of 3H/0ER relief (Note: Abad will be the subject of a future "Free (Insert Name Here)!"). Matt Nevarez allowed 2H/2ER, 1K:1BB in 1IP, and Jeilen Peguero threw a perfect 9th. Jon Gaston was 3x4 with a triple and a solo homer, Jimmy Van Ostrand was 2x5 with two doubles and 4RBI, while Freddy Parejo and Michael Affronti had two hits each. Koby Clemens was 1x2 with 3BB, and J.D. Martinez hit a 2-run homer - his first in Double A - with a walk.
Man of the Match: Jimmy Van Ostrand.
Lancaster
Lancaster got down 5-0 at the end of three, and that took care of it for a 5-2 loss. Pat Urckfitz allowed 6H/5ER, 5K:1BB for the loss, Ashton Mowdy allowed 2H/0ER, 5K:2BB in 4IP, and David Duncan threw a perfect 8th. Andy Simunic was 2x4, while Jay Austin, Lee Cruz, Federico Hernandez, David Flores (RBI), and Brandon Wikoff (RBI) added hits. Of the JetHawks' seven hits, four of them were doubles. David Flores also committed three fielding errors at 3B.
Man of the Match: Ashton Mowdy
Lexington
Lexington cruised to a fairly easy 3-1 win over Rome. Tanner Bushue dominated, throwing 7IP, 3H/0ER, 5K:1BB. Wander Alvino allowed the lone run on a solo shot, and Kirk Clark recorded his 21st save. The Legends still only got five hits - one each from Altuve, Goebbert, Our Boy Aaron Bray, Arrendell, and Hogue. Altuve and Hogue provided the RBI while Jiovanni Mier and Miguel Arrendell drew two walks each.
Man of the Match: Tanner Bushue
Tri-City
Hey, if you're going to give up a walk-off homer in the 11th, it may as well be a grand slam. As Joan Belliard did. ValleyCats lose at Aberdeen 9-5. Bobby Doran allowed 5IP, 7H/4ER, 4K:0BB. Jason Chowning and Adam Champion threw a scoreless inning each, while Brandt Walker allowed 2H/1ER, 1K:2BB in 2IP, and Joan Belliard allowed the 4ER in 1.2IP. Jacke Healey followed up his first homer of his career with his second and two walks. Enrique Hernandez had two hits. Ben Orloff (2RBI) and Wilton Infante (RBI), with Healey, provided the RBI.
Man of the Match: Jacke Healey.
Greeneville
Greeneville gave up a 2-1 lead to Bristol to fall 5-2. Mike Foltynewicz threw 5.1IP, 6H/3ER, 5K:2BB for the loss, while Garrett Bullock allowed 1H/2R (0ER), 1K:3BB. Brian Streilein allowed just one walk in 2.1IP. Telvin Nash was 2x4, and Marcus Nidiffer was responsible for the two runs with a homer in the first. Rafael Valenzuela committed two errors at third.
Man of the Match: Marcus Nidiffer.
Express put up two four-run innings and defeat New Orleans 11-9. Polin Trinidad got the start, and went 4IP, 7H/5ER, 0K:3BB, 2HR. T.J. Burton took the loss, allowing 2H/2ER in 1IP. Brad Thompson and Jonah Bayliss threw scoreless innings, while Danny Meszaros struggled in his second outing - allowing 1H/2ER, 1K:3BB in 1IP. Roy Corcoran got his 6th save of the game. Brian Esposito was 3x3 with 2BB, 2RBI; Wladimir Sutil was 2x3 with 2BB, and Brian Bogusevic was 1x3 with an RBI and 2BB. Tommy Everidge hit a 2-run homer and German Duran hit a pinch-hit 3-run HR in the 5th.
Man of the Match: This is going to Brian Esposito, got on base in all five of his PAs.
Corpus
The Hooks enjoyed a 6-run outburst in the 7th for a 9-5 win over Midland. Jeremy Johnson allowed 9H/3ER, 4K:2BB in 4.2IP, with Fernando Abad picking up the win with 2.1IP of 3H/0ER relief (Note: Abad will be the subject of a future "Free (Insert Name Here)!"). Matt Nevarez allowed 2H/2ER, 1K:1BB in 1IP, and Jeilen Peguero threw a perfect 9th. Jon Gaston was 3x4 with a triple and a solo homer, Jimmy Van Ostrand was 2x5 with two doubles and 4RBI, while Freddy Parejo and Michael Affronti had two hits each. Koby Clemens was 1x2 with 3BB, and J.D. Martinez hit a 2-run homer - his first in Double A - with a walk.
Man of the Match: Jimmy Van Ostrand.
Lancaster
Lancaster got down 5-0 at the end of three, and that took care of it for a 5-2 loss. Pat Urckfitz allowed 6H/5ER, 5K:1BB for the loss, Ashton Mowdy allowed 2H/0ER, 5K:2BB in 4IP, and David Duncan threw a perfect 8th. Andy Simunic was 2x4, while Jay Austin, Lee Cruz, Federico Hernandez, David Flores (RBI), and Brandon Wikoff (RBI) added hits. Of the JetHawks' seven hits, four of them were doubles. David Flores also committed three fielding errors at 3B.
Man of the Match: Ashton Mowdy
Lexington
Lexington cruised to a fairly easy 3-1 win over Rome. Tanner Bushue dominated, throwing 7IP, 3H/0ER, 5K:1BB. Wander Alvino allowed the lone run on a solo shot, and Kirk Clark recorded his 21st save. The Legends still only got five hits - one each from Altuve, Goebbert, Our Boy Aaron Bray, Arrendell, and Hogue. Altuve and Hogue provided the RBI while Jiovanni Mier and Miguel Arrendell drew two walks each.
Man of the Match: Tanner Bushue
Tri-City
Hey, if you're going to give up a walk-off homer in the 11th, it may as well be a grand slam. As Joan Belliard did. ValleyCats lose at Aberdeen 9-5. Bobby Doran allowed 5IP, 7H/4ER, 4K:0BB. Jason Chowning and Adam Champion threw a scoreless inning each, while Brandt Walker allowed 2H/1ER, 1K:2BB in 2IP, and Joan Belliard allowed the 4ER in 1.2IP. Jacke Healey followed up his first homer of his career with his second and two walks. Enrique Hernandez had two hits. Ben Orloff (2RBI) and Wilton Infante (RBI), with Healey, provided the RBI.
Man of the Match: Jacke Healey.
Greeneville
Greeneville gave up a 2-1 lead to Bristol to fall 5-2. Mike Foltynewicz threw 5.1IP, 6H/3ER, 5K:2BB for the loss, while Garrett Bullock allowed 1H/2R (0ER), 1K:3BB. Brian Streilein allowed just one walk in 2.1IP. Telvin Nash was 2x4, and Marcus Nidiffer was responsible for the two runs with a homer in the first. Rafael Valenzuela committed two errors at third.
Man of the Match: Marcus Nidiffer.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
ESPN: Major Trade in works in Philadelphia
With a captip to Citizen Trae, we find this story on ESPN, in which Ruben Amaro Jr might be desperate to turn the season around, and "hinted strongly to reporters" that the Phillies could make a trade by the time Kyle Kendrick's turn in the rotation comes back around on Saturday.
But there were indications they've spent a lot of time in recent days exploring a trade for Astros ace Roy Oswalt.
There are no guarantees that Roy would approve the deal, but Buster Olney appeared on Baseball Tonight...uh, tonight...mentioning that Jayson Werth could get dealt as part of a three-team trade with Tampa Bay (whom Karl Ravech pointed to) as a potential destination for Werth, evening out the salaries. The Astros would then receive players from Tampa Bay (provided this all even happens in the first place).
It's a lot of conjecture, and a lot of what-ifs, but it is interesting.
But there were indications they've spent a lot of time in recent days exploring a trade for Astros ace Roy Oswalt.
There are no guarantees that Roy would approve the deal, but Buster Olney appeared on Baseball Tonight...uh, tonight...mentioning that Jayson Werth could get dealt as part of a three-team trade with Tampa Bay (whom Karl Ravech pointed to) as a potential destination for Werth, evening out the salaries. The Astros would then receive players from Tampa Bay (provided this all even happens in the first place).
It's a lot of conjecture, and a lot of what-ifs, but it is interesting.
From the Office of the County Clerk - G94: Astros @ Cubs
There aren't enough words, even in a blog, to discuss how terrible this game was. It was a total team loss, and is embarrassing to even discuss. Astros lose 14-7.
*The Astros actually had a 6-0 lead in this, and Wesley Wright looked like he was going to be the greatest starting pitcher since Bud Norris. However, that lead went the way of the dodo. The loss after a six-run lead is the largest blown lead since 2001.
*Wesley Wright gave up six runs in 4.2IP on six hits and two walks, striking out five. However, of those six runs, only one was earned.
*It all fell apart to hell in the 5th. With the Astros enjoying a 7-1 lead coming into the bottom of the 5th, Geovany Soto reached on an infield single. Ryan Theriot then hit into what should have been a double play to Keppinger, who nutted the force attempt, allowing Soto and Theriot to instead stand safely on 2nd and 3rd. Xavier Nady struck out swinging (this would have ended the inning had that double play been made), but Soto scored anyway on a passed ball by Jason Casto. 7-2. Tyler Colvin was then hit by a pitch. Starlin Castro grounded out to second. 7-3. Aramis Ramirez the second of his three homers on a 2-2 pitch (Wright had gotten out in front 0-2). 7-6.
*When Wesley Wright threw first-pitch strikes to the Cubs, they were 3x10, 4K:1BB, HBP. Of course, the last first-pitch strike he threw was to Aramis Ramirez who tattooed the pitch to center for the three-run homer.
*Ramirez went on to hit yet another home run in the 8th. It's the seventh time this season an opponent has hit 3+ homers against the Astros, and the third 4+ HR game (the Reds hit six homers on May 29).
*The Astros have now given up 76 homers this season, and have hit 62. Thanks to Chris Johnson's solo shot.
*Brandon Lyon took the loss, giving up yet another two runs. It's the fourth time in seven July outings that Lyon has given up at least one run. His ERA after the July 1 game against San Diego was 2.80. It's now 3.98.
*Gary Majewski was basically left out on the field to sit in his own diaper, throwing 27 pitches, and allowed 4H/5ER, 1K:1BB and another three-run homer to Ramirez.
*Ramirez' three homers, further extend the lead Houston has in allowing Ramirez HRs - 36, with Milwaukee coming in 2nd with 31. It's his 4th 3HR game of his career.
*A couple of bright spots for the Astros. Well, one bright spot, and one "it's about time:" Chris Johnson had another multi-hit game, and has at least one hit in each game he's started since the All-Star Break (8x19, 2HR, 2B, 7RBI). Carlos Lee was 2x5 with an RBI. Lee has a two-game hitting streak, and is now 14x51 in July.
*Berkman was 0x3, but drew two walks. So while he's 1x8 in his last three starts, he now has seven walks in those starts.
*Angel Sanchez was 1x4, and has a four-game hit streak, improving his average from .207 on July 16 to .286 following tonight's game.
Pitch Count Hero: Michael Bourn (1x4, BB) and Lance Berkman (0x3, 2BB) - 21 pitches in five PAs.
Pitch Count Punk: Hunter Pence (1x5) - 12 pitches in five PAs. Can we just pause for a second in order to hate? In the second inning, with the bases loaded and the Astros up by four, Hunter Pence came up to bat. Now: Bourn had walked on five pitches. Angel Sanchez had been hit by a pitch. Berkman walked on five pitches. So WTF does Pence go up and do? Swings at strike one and leans over the plate to pop out to first to end the inning.
Man of the Match: Let's call it Chris Johnson.
Goat of the Game: Brandon Lyon. Though this could have easily gone to Jason Castro, Jeff Keppinger, or Gary Majewski.
*The Astros actually had a 6-0 lead in this, and Wesley Wright looked like he was going to be the greatest starting pitcher since Bud Norris. However, that lead went the way of the dodo. The loss after a six-run lead is the largest blown lead since 2001.
*Wesley Wright gave up six runs in 4.2IP on six hits and two walks, striking out five. However, of those six runs, only one was earned.
*It all fell apart to hell in the 5th. With the Astros enjoying a 7-1 lead coming into the bottom of the 5th, Geovany Soto reached on an infield single. Ryan Theriot then hit into what should have been a double play to Keppinger, who nutted the force attempt, allowing Soto and Theriot to instead stand safely on 2nd and 3rd. Xavier Nady struck out swinging (this would have ended the inning had that double play been made), but Soto scored anyway on a passed ball by Jason Casto. 7-2. Tyler Colvin was then hit by a pitch. Starlin Castro grounded out to second. 7-3. Aramis Ramirez the second of his three homers on a 2-2 pitch (Wright had gotten out in front 0-2). 7-6.
*When Wesley Wright threw first-pitch strikes to the Cubs, they were 3x10, 4K:1BB, HBP. Of course, the last first-pitch strike he threw was to Aramis Ramirez who tattooed the pitch to center for the three-run homer.
*Ramirez went on to hit yet another home run in the 8th. It's the seventh time this season an opponent has hit 3+ homers against the Astros, and the third 4+ HR game (the Reds hit six homers on May 29).
*The Astros have now given up 76 homers this season, and have hit 62. Thanks to Chris Johnson's solo shot.
*Brandon Lyon took the loss, giving up yet another two runs. It's the fourth time in seven July outings that Lyon has given up at least one run. His ERA after the July 1 game against San Diego was 2.80. It's now 3.98.
*Gary Majewski was basically left out on the field to sit in his own diaper, throwing 27 pitches, and allowed 4H/5ER, 1K:1BB and another three-run homer to Ramirez.
*Ramirez' three homers, further extend the lead Houston has in allowing Ramirez HRs - 36, with Milwaukee coming in 2nd with 31. It's his 4th 3HR game of his career.
*A couple of bright spots for the Astros. Well, one bright spot, and one "it's about time:" Chris Johnson had another multi-hit game, and has at least one hit in each game he's started since the All-Star Break (8x19, 2HR, 2B, 7RBI). Carlos Lee was 2x5 with an RBI. Lee has a two-game hitting streak, and is now 14x51 in July.
*Berkman was 0x3, but drew two walks. So while he's 1x8 in his last three starts, he now has seven walks in those starts.
*Angel Sanchez was 1x4, and has a four-game hit streak, improving his average from .207 on July 16 to .286 following tonight's game.
Pitch Count Hero: Michael Bourn (1x4, BB) and Lance Berkman (0x3, 2BB) - 21 pitches in five PAs.
Pitch Count Punk: Hunter Pence (1x5) - 12 pitches in five PAs. Can we just pause for a second in order to hate? In the second inning, with the bases loaded and the Astros up by four, Hunter Pence came up to bat. Now: Bourn had walked on five pitches. Angel Sanchez had been hit by a pitch. Berkman walked on five pitches. So WTF does Pence go up and do? Swings at strike one and leans over the plate to pop out to first to end the inning.
Man of the Match: Let's call it Chris Johnson.
Goat of the Game: Brandon Lyon. Though this could have easily gone to Jason Castro, Jeff Keppinger, or Gary Majewski.
Paulino out four weeks
Brian McTaggart is reporting that Felipe Paulino will be out for a month with a mild rotator cuff strain.
Smilin' Ken: Interest in Roy "limited"
Smilin' Ken Rosenthal knows some things about the Hunt for Roy's October:
The market for Oswalt is “slow,” one source says, with clubs reluctant to trade top prospects while absorbing the rest of the pitcher’s contract. Oswalt is owed about $6 million more this season and $16 million next season.
The Astros are only willing to pay a small percentage of that money, and Oswalt also would ask a team to pick up his $16 million option for 2012 in exchange for waiving his no-trade clause, sources say...
... Oswalt prefers the National League, and the Phillies and Mets are among the teams that have contacted the Astros. But sources say that Astros general manager Ed Wade is “trying to hit a home run” for Oswalt, indicating that his price is high.
The Astros also are fielding offers for right-hander Brett Myers, who is earning $3.1 million this season with an $8 million mutual option or $2 million buyout for 2011.
Rosenthal goes on to note that it is entirely possible for the Astros to trade Myers, and then resign him as a free agent. That would obviously depend on the destination teamdeclining his 2nd-year option (UPDATE: the 2011 option is mutual), which I would imagine is based on how he performs for whatever team traded for him.
The market for Oswalt is “slow,” one source says, with clubs reluctant to trade top prospects while absorbing the rest of the pitcher’s contract. Oswalt is owed about $6 million more this season and $16 million next season.
The Astros are only willing to pay a small percentage of that money, and Oswalt also would ask a team to pick up his $16 million option for 2012 in exchange for waiving his no-trade clause, sources say...
... Oswalt prefers the National League, and the Phillies and Mets are among the teams that have contacted the Astros. But sources say that Astros general manager Ed Wade is “trying to hit a home run” for Oswalt, indicating that his price is high.
The Astros also are fielding offers for right-hander Brett Myers, who is earning $3.1 million this season with an $8 million mutual option or $2 million buyout for 2011.
Rosenthal goes on to note that it is entirely possible for the Astros to trade Myers, and then resign him as a free agent. That would obviously depend on the destination team
32nd Round pick Austin Chrismon to go to East Carolina
So it seems as though 32nd Round pick Austin Chrismon will not be signing with the Astros:
“We couldn’t reach an agreement on a dollar figure I’d be comfortable with. And I didn’t want to miss out on the college experience and getting an education. So I’ll try again in three years.”
“We couldn’t reach an agreement on a dollar figure I’d be comfortable with. And I didn’t want to miss out on the college experience and getting an education. So I’ll try again in three years.”
Coach: Rodney Quintero needs another year
Chipola Junior College's coach Jeff Johnson thinks 25th Round pick Rodney Quintero needs another year:
“I’ve been around a lot of talented pitchers in my career, and Rodney is right there with all of the top ones in terms of arm strength, athleticism, all of that. He’s right there with all of them. But the thing he’s got to do is get his pitchability better. But with his arm strength, he’s got a chance to be a big-leaguer. After another year, he could be a top two-round guy and make himself a lot of money. He’s got a chance to be really, really good.”
“I’ve been around a lot of talented pitchers in my career, and Rodney is right there with all of the top ones in terms of arm strength, athleticism, all of that. He’s right there with all of them. But the thing he’s got to do is get his pitchability better. But with his arm strength, he’s got a chance to be a big-leaguer. After another year, he could be a top two-round guy and make himself a lot of money. He’s got a chance to be really, really good.”
Breaking down the Roy-mors
Here's your daily dose of the Hunt for Roy's October.
Minnesota:
The sense I'm getting now is that the chances of the Twins making a deal for Houston's Roy Oswalt are decreasing. That would make Arizona's Dan Haren or the Cubs' Ted Lilly the next options.
Boston/New York:
Nick Cafardo:
The Sox will not go after a starting pitcher, even though it appears the Yankees, who were scooped on Cliff Lee (much to Epstein’s relief), likely will set their sights on someone like Roy Oswalt, who suffered an ankle contusion over the weekend, or Arizona’s Dan Haren, who has not pitched well recently.
Yankees:
NY Post, quoting Brian Cashman:
“I’m not looking for starting pitching. I don’t feel compelled. This is why we have Sergio Mitre.”
Mets:
The Mets aren't getting Roy Oswalt or Dan Haren at this trading deadline, but they don't need those aces to stay in the playoff race over the next couple of months.
White Sox:
Williams was already saying before Monday’s game that making a deal wasn’t going to be easy with what teams are asking for proven players. With one American League source saying Monday the White Sox were considering more high profile guys like Houston’s Roy Oswalt or Fausto Carmona, over somebody like a Ted Lilly, the price would have been plenty.
Dodgers:
Nothing would be better for the Dodgers than to go out before the trade deadline and pick up a top-notch pitcher like Roy Oswalt. But that isn’t likely to happen. Part of it is because of Oswalt’s no-trade contract and the amount of money in it as well as how many prospects would have to go to Houston. But part of the problem in getting Oswalt — or anyone that would improve the Dodgers roster — is still tied up in the divorce proceedings of Frank and Jamie McCourt. If these two can’t even come to an agreement on who owns the team, how likely will general manager Ned Colletti be able to pull the trigger on a decent trade?
Minnesota:
The sense I'm getting now is that the chances of the Twins making a deal for Houston's Roy Oswalt are decreasing. That would make Arizona's Dan Haren or the Cubs' Ted Lilly the next options.
Boston/New York:
Nick Cafardo:
The Sox will not go after a starting pitcher, even though it appears the Yankees, who were scooped on Cliff Lee (much to Epstein’s relief), likely will set their sights on someone like Roy Oswalt, who suffered an ankle contusion over the weekend, or Arizona’s Dan Haren, who has not pitched well recently.
Yankees:
NY Post, quoting Brian Cashman:
“I’m not looking for starting pitching. I don’t feel compelled. This is why we have Sergio Mitre.”
Mets:
The Mets aren't getting Roy Oswalt or Dan Haren at this trading deadline, but they don't need those aces to stay in the playoff race over the next couple of months.
White Sox:
Williams was already saying before Monday’s game that making a deal wasn’t going to be easy with what teams are asking for proven players. With one American League source saying Monday the White Sox were considering more high profile guys like Houston’s Roy Oswalt or Fausto Carmona, over somebody like a Ted Lilly, the price would have been plenty.
Dodgers:
Nothing would be better for the Dodgers than to go out before the trade deadline and pick up a top-notch pitcher like Roy Oswalt. But that isn’t likely to happen. Part of it is because of Oswalt’s no-trade contract and the amount of money in it as well as how many prospects would have to go to Houston. But part of the problem in getting Oswalt — or anyone that would improve the Dodgers roster — is still tied up in the divorce proceedings of Frank and Jamie McCourt. If these two can’t even come to an agreement on who owns the team, how likely will general manager Ned Colletti be able to pull the trigger on a decent trade?
That Thing comes up when talking about Brett Myers
Josh Alper has an article for NBC New York on the Yankees' options to replace Pettitte:
Alper:
The former Phillie is having a nice season with the Astros as they circle the drain in need of young players to help build another contending team. He's got a ton of experience in pennant races, is a free agent after the season and has also done a lot of bullpen work in the last three years. That's an appealing trait for the Yankees since Myers, or any acquisition, would likely wind up in the pen before all is said and done. The drawbacks are that he's going to be a target for a bunch of teams and that he hasn't always dealt well with media scrutiny, much of it stemming from an incident where he hit his wife.
Alper:
The former Phillie is having a nice season with the Astros as they circle the drain in need of young players to help build another contending team. He's got a ton of experience in pennant races, is a free agent after the season and has also done a lot of bullpen work in the last three years. That's an appealing trait for the Yankees since Myers, or any acquisition, would likely wind up in the pen before all is said and done. The drawbacks are that he's going to be a target for a bunch of teams and that he hasn't always dealt well with media scrutiny, much of it stemming from an incident where he hit his wife.
Injury Notes
Here's a compilation of injury notes.
Roy:
"I'll be fine."
Fulchino and Moehler:
On schedule to pitch in a simulated game Friday after both successfully completed side sessions at Wrigley Field. Mills said the pitchers will throw another bullpen session Wednesday. The next step after the simulated game would be a rehab assignment.
Felipe Paulino:
Had his doctor's appointment rescheduled for today. He underwent an MRI on Sunday.
Wandy (not injured, but notable development):
“I felt strong today, but after the fourth, fifth inning, my arm felt heavy. The ball was going up on me.”
Roy:
"I'll be fine."
Fulchino and Moehler:
On schedule to pitch in a simulated game Friday after both successfully completed side sessions at Wrigley Field. Mills said the pitchers will throw another bullpen session Wednesday. The next step after the simulated game would be a rehab assignment.
Felipe Paulino:
Had his doctor's appointment rescheduled for today. He underwent an MRI on Sunday.
Wandy (not injured, but notable development):
“I felt strong today, but after the fourth, fifth inning, my arm felt heavy. The ball was going up on me.”
According to Dallas Keuchel, he's been promoted to Corpus
Dallas Keuchel tweeted last night that he's been promoted to Corpus Christi.
We lobbied for this last week. It's weird. The two guys we said needed to be freed from their teams have indeed been freed within three days.
We lobbied for this last week. It's weird. The two guys we said needed to be freed from their teams have indeed been freed within three days.
Jason Chowning is a ringer
Here's an incredible story from the Saskatoon Star Phoenix involving ineligible players and what seems like a peach of a coach.
Here's your run-down:
In 2009, there was a team in the Western Major Baseball League playoffs - the Melville Millionaires.
The Millionaires "conspired" to sneak an ineligible player onto the roster and into the game.
The coach, Garnet Keller, who conspired to sneak said ineligible player on to the team - who won the title - was stripped of his title, received a lifetime suspension as a team governor, a three year coaching suspension, and a $200 fine. Keller sued, some Canadian judge found in his favor, but still took him to the woodshed:
Rather than admit his misconduct when confronted, Keller systematically lied, falsified documents and coerced his assistant coach and his players in furtherance of a fraud, said the ruling.
Apparently, though, bringing in "ringers" (the article's term) isn't anything new:
Canadian baseball teams have been passing off ringers from the U.S. as local boys for as long as the game has been played in this country. They don't even have to be sneaked in anymore. The Western League, for instance, allows a team to bring in American imports. They can even bring in an American for the playoffs, provided he has played in at least three regular-season games.
Here's why this matters: The ringer is 28th Round pick Jason Chowning. Chowning wasn't available for the final three regular season games for Melville, because he was pitching at OU. So Keller dressed players who looked kinda sorta like Chowning:
Since he didn't pitch in any of those games, the imposter only had to sit in the bullpen and look American. The real Chowning, when he belatedly arrived, was slipped into the lineup, illegally, for the playoffs.
And it was Chowning himself who blew up the story:
On his flight to Regina, he sat beside a woman whose son played for the Regina franchise that was about to meet Melville in the playoffs. Based on what he let slip, she quickly figured out he was ineligible. An official complaint ensued...
...Even then, Keller would not admit that the jig was up. Instead, he falsely claimed in a signed declaration that Chowning had indeed been in Melville for the requisite three games, but that he made a quick trip home and back for personal reasons before the playoffs. Chowning and a Millionaires assistant coach at Keller's urging signed similar declarations. What none of them could explain is why Chowning, when he was flying into Regina, could not remember the name or location of the team he was supposed to be playing for. Obviously, he had never been in Melville in his life.
Neither could anyone produce Chowning's passport with the exculpatory entry stamps or his airline boarding passes. Keller was, however, able to produce bogus airline ticket stubs to support his concocted version of events. Further questions he deflected with verbal abuse. But Chowning soon thereafter would confess all to his university compliance officer. Only then did Keller admit to the scheme.
This is a bizarre story. Who knew Canadian baseball was so cut-throat?
Here's your run-down:
In 2009, there was a team in the Western Major Baseball League playoffs - the Melville Millionaires.
The Millionaires "conspired" to sneak an ineligible player onto the roster and into the game.
The coach, Garnet Keller, who conspired to sneak said ineligible player on to the team - who won the title - was stripped of his title, received a lifetime suspension as a team governor, a three year coaching suspension, and a $200 fine. Keller sued, some Canadian judge found in his favor, but still took him to the woodshed:
Rather than admit his misconduct when confronted, Keller systematically lied, falsified documents and coerced his assistant coach and his players in furtherance of a fraud, said the ruling.
Apparently, though, bringing in "ringers" (the article's term) isn't anything new:
Canadian baseball teams have been passing off ringers from the U.S. as local boys for as long as the game has been played in this country. They don't even have to be sneaked in anymore. The Western League, for instance, allows a team to bring in American imports. They can even bring in an American for the playoffs, provided he has played in at least three regular-season games.
Here's why this matters: The ringer is 28th Round pick Jason Chowning. Chowning wasn't available for the final three regular season games for Melville, because he was pitching at OU. So Keller dressed players who looked kinda sorta like Chowning:
Since he didn't pitch in any of those games, the imposter only had to sit in the bullpen and look American. The real Chowning, when he belatedly arrived, was slipped into the lineup, illegally, for the playoffs.
And it was Chowning himself who blew up the story:
On his flight to Regina, he sat beside a woman whose son played for the Regina franchise that was about to meet Melville in the playoffs. Based on what he let slip, she quickly figured out he was ineligible. An official complaint ensued...
...Even then, Keller would not admit that the jig was up. Instead, he falsely claimed in a signed declaration that Chowning had indeed been in Melville for the requisite three games, but that he made a quick trip home and back for personal reasons before the playoffs. Chowning and a Millionaires assistant coach at Keller's urging signed similar declarations. What none of them could explain is why Chowning, when he was flying into Regina, could not remember the name or location of the team he was supposed to be playing for. Obviously, he had never been in Melville in his life.
Neither could anyone produce Chowning's passport with the exculpatory entry stamps or his airline boarding passes. Keller was, however, able to produce bogus airline ticket stubs to support his concocted version of events. Further questions he deflected with verbal abuse. But Chowning soon thereafter would confess all to his university compliance officer. Only then did Keller admit to the scheme.
This is a bizarre story. Who knew Canadian baseball was so cut-throat?
Erik Stiller released
The Astros released relief pitcher Erik Stiller yesterday. Stiller posted a 4.81 ERA/1.19 WHIP in 24.1IP, with 24H/13ER, 17K:5BB in 15 appearances. Six of those earned runs had come in July (3ER on July 1; 3ER on July 16).
-We also learn that Rafael Valenzuela has been assigned to Greeneville from the GCL Astros.
-We also learn that Rafael Valenzuela has been assigned to Greeneville from the GCL Astros.
Eddie's Farm: July 19
Round Rock
Strange game. New Orleans took a 5-0 lead after three, Round Rock rallied for five runs in the fourth, and New Orleans scored the final five runs for a 10-5 win over Round Rock. Josh Banks had a rare disaster start with 10H/6ER, 1K:3BB in 4.2IP. Roy Corcoran allowed 1K:1BB in 1.1IP, Yorman Bazardo allowed two unearned runs in 2IP, and Jonah Bayliss gave up 2H/2ER, 1K:2BB in 1IP. Collin DeLome was 3x5 with a grand slam and a stolen base, and Brian Bogusevic also had three hits. Matt Kata, Drew Locke, and Edwin Bellorin had two hits each. Wladimir Sutil was 1x2 with three walks.
Man of the Match: Collin DeLome.
Corpus
Midland scored in four different innings for a 5-2 win over Corpus. Tyler Lumsden allowed 4H/4ER, 2K:4BB in 6.2IP. Arcenio Leon made his Corpus debut with 2H/1ER, 2K:1BB in 1.1IP, and Jared Wells threw a scoreless 9th. Koby Clemens hit two solo homers, and Freddy Parejo was 2x4 for your multi-hit games. J.D. Martinez was 1x4 with an outfield assist (and an error). Jose Vallejo was 0x3, to drop his average to .132.
Man of the Match: Koby Clemens
Lancaster
It was a close one, but Lancaster lost to San Jose 6-5. Kyle Greenwalt threw 5IP, 8H/4ER, 1K:4BB, 2HR. Kyle Godfrey got two outs, but allowed 1H/1ER, WP, 3BB. Brian Wabick allowed 3H/1ER in 2IP (Wabick came in with the bases loaded, and got out the final out of the inning), and David Berner closed it out with 1.1IP, 1H, 1K. Jay Austin (3B, 2SB - 39 on the year), Albert Cartwright (2B, RBI), and Lee Cruz (BB, RBI) had two hits each. Brian Pellegrini was 1x2 with a double, RBI, and 3BB.
Man of the Match: Brian Pellegrini
Lexington
Off.
Tri-City
Tri-City played the matinee and defeated Brooklyn, 7-4. Carlos Quevedo got the win, throwing 6IP, 6H/3R (2ER), 2K:0BB, allowing 2HR. Travis Blankenship allowed 1H in 2IP, and Mike Ness allowed 2H/1ER on a solo homer in the 9th. Enrique Hernandez was 3x4, while Wilton Infante (2B), Mike Kvasnicka (2B, RBI), and Adam Bailey (2RBI) had two hits each. Jackie Healey hit a two-run go-ahead homer (the first of his career) in the 6th to break a 3-3 tie.
Man of the Match: Carlos Quevedo
Greeneville
Greeneville scored three runs in the bottom of the 9th with a walk-off walk by Jonathan Merritt for a 7-6 win over Bluefield. Vincent Velasquez threw 3IP, 2H/1ER, 5K:2BB; John Frawlwey allowed 3H/1ER in 1.2IP, Jamaine Cotton allowed 2H/2R (1ER) in 1.2IP, Phil Rorabaugh gave up 2H/2R (1ER) and 2BB in 2IP, and Travis Smink got the win. Jonathan Merritt was 2x4 with an RBI and a walk and Rafael Valenzuela was 2x4 with two doubles and an RBI for the multi-hit games. The seven RBI were scattered among seven Gastros.
Man of the Match: Vincent Velasquez
Strange game. New Orleans took a 5-0 lead after three, Round Rock rallied for five runs in the fourth, and New Orleans scored the final five runs for a 10-5 win over Round Rock. Josh Banks had a rare disaster start with 10H/6ER, 1K:3BB in 4.2IP. Roy Corcoran allowed 1K:1BB in 1.1IP, Yorman Bazardo allowed two unearned runs in 2IP, and Jonah Bayliss gave up 2H/2ER, 1K:2BB in 1IP. Collin DeLome was 3x5 with a grand slam and a stolen base, and Brian Bogusevic also had three hits. Matt Kata, Drew Locke, and Edwin Bellorin had two hits each. Wladimir Sutil was 1x2 with three walks.
Man of the Match: Collin DeLome.
Corpus
Midland scored in four different innings for a 5-2 win over Corpus. Tyler Lumsden allowed 4H/4ER, 2K:4BB in 6.2IP. Arcenio Leon made his Corpus debut with 2H/1ER, 2K:1BB in 1.1IP, and Jared Wells threw a scoreless 9th. Koby Clemens hit two solo homers, and Freddy Parejo was 2x4 for your multi-hit games. J.D. Martinez was 1x4 with an outfield assist (and an error). Jose Vallejo was 0x3, to drop his average to .132.
Man of the Match: Koby Clemens
Lancaster
It was a close one, but Lancaster lost to San Jose 6-5. Kyle Greenwalt threw 5IP, 8H/4ER, 1K:4BB, 2HR. Kyle Godfrey got two outs, but allowed 1H/1ER, WP, 3BB. Brian Wabick allowed 3H/1ER in 2IP (Wabick came in with the bases loaded, and got out the final out of the inning), and David Berner closed it out with 1.1IP, 1H, 1K. Jay Austin (3B, 2SB - 39 on the year), Albert Cartwright (2B, RBI), and Lee Cruz (BB, RBI) had two hits each. Brian Pellegrini was 1x2 with a double, RBI, and 3BB.
Man of the Match: Brian Pellegrini
Lexington
Off.
Tri-City
Tri-City played the matinee and defeated Brooklyn, 7-4. Carlos Quevedo got the win, throwing 6IP, 6H/3R (2ER), 2K:0BB, allowing 2HR. Travis Blankenship allowed 1H in 2IP, and Mike Ness allowed 2H/1ER on a solo homer in the 9th. Enrique Hernandez was 3x4, while Wilton Infante (2B), Mike Kvasnicka (2B, RBI), and Adam Bailey (2RBI) had two hits each. Jackie Healey hit a two-run go-ahead homer (the first of his career) in the 6th to break a 3-3 tie.
Man of the Match: Carlos Quevedo
Greeneville
Greeneville scored three runs in the bottom of the 9th with a walk-off walk by Jonathan Merritt for a 7-6 win over Bluefield. Vincent Velasquez threw 3IP, 2H/1ER, 5K:2BB; John Frawlwey allowed 3H/1ER in 1.2IP, Jamaine Cotton allowed 2H/2R (1ER) in 1.2IP, Phil Rorabaugh gave up 2H/2R (1ER) and 2BB in 2IP, and Travis Smink got the win. Jonathan Merritt was 2x4 with an RBI and a walk and Rafael Valenzuela was 2x4 with two doubles and an RBI for the multi-hit games. The seven RBI were scattered among seven Gastros.
Man of the Match: Vincent Velasquez
From the Office of the County Clerk - G93: Astros @ Cubs
Well well. Astros take it to the Cubs with a 5-run first inning, 11-5.
*This is the first time the Astros have scored more than 10 runs all season.
*The five runs in the first were the most in any Astro first inning this season, and tied the season-high for runs in an inning.
*This was the 11th time the Astros had allowed five runs in a game, and they improve to 4-7.
*The Astros' 17 hits are a season-high, beating the previous high of 15 hits - vs. the Nationals on June 1.
*Angel Sanchez and Chris Johnson (yeah, why is Pedro Feliz even sniffing the lineup?) had three-hit games. Johnson ended the night a double short of a cycle, with Johnson hitting his first career home run in the 7th inning.
*The Astros drew more walks than strukeouts for the 14th time this season, mainly thanks to Jeff Keppinger (three walks) and Lance Berkman (two walks).
*Jason Castro snapped out of a pretty brutal July slump, coming into the game 3x29, with a 2x5, HR, 3RBI night. He has 4RBI on the season.
*1-4 in the lineup: 7x21, 3K:3BB, 4RBI; 5-8 in the lineup: 10x17, 0K:3BB, 6RBI.
*Wandy didn't have a great night, but was able to ride the offense for a win (going 2x3, 2B himself). His 5ER are the most he's allowed where he got the win all season.
*Wandy's four wild pitches are the most in a season since 2006, when he had six.
Pitch Count Hero: Lance Berkman (1x4, 2BB) - 30 pitches in six PAs
Pitch Count Punk: Carlos Lee (2x5) and Jason Castro (2x5) - 16 pitches in five PAs.
Man of the Match: How about Chris Johnson? What with the first career homer, and all.
Goat of the Game: No Goat. I'll take an 11-spot on the Cubs day in and day out.
*This is the first time the Astros have scored more than 10 runs all season.
*The five runs in the first were the most in any Astro first inning this season, and tied the season-high for runs in an inning.
*This was the 11th time the Astros had allowed five runs in a game, and they improve to 4-7.
*The Astros' 17 hits are a season-high, beating the previous high of 15 hits - vs. the Nationals on June 1.
*Angel Sanchez and Chris Johnson (yeah, why is Pedro Feliz even sniffing the lineup?) had three-hit games. Johnson ended the night a double short of a cycle, with Johnson hitting his first career home run in the 7th inning.
*The Astros drew more walks than strukeouts for the 14th time this season, mainly thanks to Jeff Keppinger (three walks) and Lance Berkman (two walks).
*Jason Castro snapped out of a pretty brutal July slump, coming into the game 3x29, with a 2x5, HR, 3RBI night. He has 4RBI on the season.
*1-4 in the lineup: 7x21, 3K:3BB, 4RBI; 5-8 in the lineup: 10x17, 0K:3BB, 6RBI.
*Wandy didn't have a great night, but was able to ride the offense for a win (going 2x3, 2B himself). His 5ER are the most he's allowed where he got the win all season.
*Wandy's four wild pitches are the most in a season since 2006, when he had six.
Pitch Count Hero: Lance Berkman (1x4, 2BB) - 30 pitches in six PAs
Pitch Count Punk: Carlos Lee (2x5) and Jason Castro (2x5) - 16 pitches in five PAs.
Man of the Match: How about Chris Johnson? What with the first career homer, and all.
Goat of the Game: No Goat. I'll take an 11-spot on the Cubs day in and day out.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Dodgers have been aggressive, apparently
Yahoo's Tim Brown tells the world that:
Losers of four in a row and with 13 of their next 17 games against the San Francisco Giants and San Diego Padres, the Dodgers, according to baseball sources, have been very aggressive in their pursuit of pitching, both for the rotation and the bullpen. They continue to call the Houston Astros on Roy Oswalt, the Chicago Cubs on Ted Lilly, the Diamondbacks on Haren and even the Cleveland Indians on Jake Westbrook and Fausto Carmona."
And about the Yankees?
The Yankees aren’t so concerned with Andy Pettitte’s groin injury that they’ll seek a replacement starter, though a source said they’ll continue conversations in case Sergio Mitre falters. They do like Oswalt, but certainly not as much as they did Lee, and view Oswalt’s contract as a detriment.
So everybody's in on Roy, and nobody's in on Roy.
Losers of four in a row and with 13 of their next 17 games against the San Francisco Giants and San Diego Padres, the Dodgers, according to baseball sources, have been very aggressive in their pursuit of pitching, both for the rotation and the bullpen. They continue to call the Houston Astros on Roy Oswalt, the Chicago Cubs on Ted Lilly, the Diamondbacks on Haren and even the Cleveland Indians on Jake Westbrook and Fausto Carmona."
And about the Yankees?
The Yankees aren’t so concerned with Andy Pettitte’s groin injury that they’ll seek a replacement starter, though a source said they’ll continue conversations in case Sergio Mitre falters. They do like Oswalt, but certainly not as much as they did Lee, and view Oswalt’s contract as a detriment.
So everybody's in on Roy, and nobody's in on Roy.
Arcenio Leon promoted
Well, that didn't take long. With a captip to Farmstros, we learn that Arcenio Leon has been promoted to Corpus Christi.
On Saturday, we lobbied for this very event.
On Saturday, we lobbied for this very event.
New lineup!
Getting outhit by the Pirates 19-3 will require some shakeups, and that's what Mills has done for tonight's game with the Cubs...
1. Bourn - CF
2. Sanchez - SS
3. Berkman - 1B
4. Pence - LF
5. Lee - RF
6. Keppinger - 2B
7. Johnson - 3B
8. Castro - C
9. Wandy - P
1. Bourn - CF
2. Sanchez - SS
3. Berkman - 1B
4. Pence - LF
5. Lee - RF
6. Keppinger - 2B
7. Johnson - 3B
8. Castro - C
9. Wandy - P
Jayson Stark jumps on the "Roy To Houston" bandwagon
So Jayson Stark also thinks that Roy is staying in Houston past July 31.
In his note about Ted Lilly, he writes:
With Cliff Lee off the market, Lilly has moved to the top of many teams' available-starters list. And unlike the cases of Roy Oswalt and Dan Haren -- two starters with heavy price tags who appear unlikely to be moved -- the Cubs have let interested clubs know that Lilly, who will be a free agent this winter, is very available.
There are still 12 days, there are still 12 days, there are still 12 days...
In his note about Ted Lilly, he writes:
With Cliff Lee off the market, Lilly has moved to the top of many teams' available-starters list. And unlike the cases of Roy Oswalt and Dan Haren -- two starters with heavy price tags who appear unlikely to be moved -- the Cubs have let interested clubs know that Lilly, who will be a free agent this winter, is very available.
There are still 12 days, there are still 12 days, there are still 12 days...
FanHouse: 60% Chance of Roy
The new Trade Deadline report from Fanhouse says that:
Don't bet on Roy Oswalt pitching somewhere other than Houston by the end of the month. One major league executive rated the chances of Oswalt staying with the Astros through the deadline and beyond at "60 percent."
Houston is apparently willing to offer some salary relief -- in the range of $4-5 million -- but it's unclear if that will be enough to entice most teams.
$4-5 million isn't going to cut it, if the Astros want any kind of prospects back for Roy. $10-12 million and this deal gets done.
Don't bet on Roy Oswalt pitching somewhere other than Houston by the end of the month. One major league executive rated the chances of Oswalt staying with the Astros through the deadline and beyond at "60 percent."
Houston is apparently willing to offer some salary relief -- in the range of $4-5 million -- but it's unclear if that will be enough to entice most teams.
$4-5 million isn't going to cut it, if the Astros want any kind of prospects back for Roy. $10-12 million and this deal gets done.
Charlton Jimerson back in affiliated baseball
Hey, former Astro Charlton Jimerson got himself a job!
Jimerson - who famously homered on the first major-league pitch he saw in Philadelphia on September 4, 2006 (a game in which I was attending) - was playing for the independent Bridgeport Bluefish before having his contract purchased by the Angels. He'll report to Double-A NW Arkansas.
Jimerson - who famously homered on the first major-league pitch he saw in Philadelphia on September 4, 2006 (a game in which I was attending) - was playing for the independent Bridgeport Bluefish before having his contract purchased by the Angels. He'll report to Double-A NW Arkansas.
Yankees probably out on Roy, may be in on Myers
The New York Daily News' Peter Botte has a new article up on the Yankees' plans to replace the injured Andy Pettitte. Short answer: It's Sergio Mitre's to lose.
Planning on making a run at (Cliff) Lee in free agency this offseason, the Yankees aren't expected to pursue Houston's Roy Oswalt, who is owed $16 million for next season and has a $16 million option with a $2 million buyout for 2012...
...Another name that might intrigue the Yankees is Houston's Brett Myers, who is having a strong bounce-back year for the Astros and could be used either in the rotation or in the bullpen.
GM Brian Cashman:
"Right now it's pretty quiet, but it's still early. There have been conversations with teams, but I don't see them leading to anything right now."
Planning on making a run at (Cliff) Lee in free agency this offseason, the Yankees aren't expected to pursue Houston's Roy Oswalt, who is owed $16 million for next season and has a $16 million option with a $2 million buyout for 2012...
...Another name that might intrigue the Yankees is Houston's Brett Myers, who is having a strong bounce-back year for the Astros and could be used either in the rotation or in the bullpen.
GM Brian Cashman:
"Right now it's pretty quiet, but it's still early. There have been conversations with teams, but I don't see them leading to anything right now."
"Nothing near imminent" on the trade front
Dave Dalati has a new post up at FSH on the trade market for Roy and Lance, and it's not pretty:
Perhaps this is the week that Brian Cashman makes the call to 501 Crawford and inquires about Roy Oswalt. But, to this point, Cashman has shown no interest in the Astros right hander. It’s unclear if Oswalt would even consider waiving his no-trade clause for the Yankees.
Quick aside: Yes, Roy would probably waive his no-trade clause to go to New York:
"From the very beginning, I said an organization that wants to win. The Yankees surely want to win. Actually, I'd be excited to pitch over here (in the AL).
On Berkman:
The chances of Lance Berkman being moved appear even more remote. Most good teams have a productive first baseman already...Throw in Berkman’s sub-par season and the odds are strongly against a trade. Roy Oswalt and Lance Berkman remain Astros today not because management has refused to consider a move. You can advertise a home for sale, but someone has to want that home and be willing to pay something near a fair price. The moods and whims of General Managers and Owners can change rapidly. But, as of this posting, no deal for Oswalt or Berkman is even near imminent.
Perhaps this is the week that Brian Cashman makes the call to 501 Crawford and inquires about Roy Oswalt. But, to this point, Cashman has shown no interest in the Astros right hander. It’s unclear if Oswalt would even consider waiving his no-trade clause for the Yankees.
Quick aside: Yes, Roy would probably waive his no-trade clause to go to New York:
"From the very beginning, I said an organization that wants to win. The Yankees surely want to win. Actually, I'd be excited to pitch over here (in the AL).
On Berkman:
The chances of Lance Berkman being moved appear even more remote. Most good teams have a productive first baseman already...Throw in Berkman’s sub-par season and the odds are strongly against a trade. Roy Oswalt and Lance Berkman remain Astros today not because management has refused to consider a move. You can advertise a home for sale, but someone has to want that home and be willing to pay something near a fair price. The moods and whims of General Managers and Owners can change rapidly. But, as of this posting, no deal for Oswalt or Berkman is even near imminent.
Round Rock is loving that the Astros are struggling
An oversimplification? Sure. Likely? Yes. In the PCL Notebook, posted today, attention is turned to Brian Bogusevic.
Bogusevic, on adjusting to OF life:
"There's a lot of work to do. You're basically playing catchup. I've been doing a lot of early work hitting and defensively. I understand I'm behind the learning curve a little bit. I'm not going to shy away from extra work."
On looking up at the Astros:
"Everybody who's at the Triple-A level feels they're close to an opportunity. But if the big league team is not going the way they thought they were and there are moves going to be made, I think everyone feels encouraged."
Bogusevic, on adjusting to OF life:
"There's a lot of work to do. You're basically playing catchup. I've been doing a lot of early work hitting and defensively. I understand I'm behind the learning curve a little bit. I'm not going to shy away from extra work."
On looking up at the Astros:
"Everybody who's at the Triple-A level feels they're close to an opportunity. But if the big league team is not going the way they thought they were and there are moves going to be made, I think everyone feels encouraged."
Heyman on Berkman, man
Jon Heyman made himself a list of the position players who are available, and ranked them in order. Lance comes in all the way down at #14:
With the Astros said to be listening on just about everyone except Hunter Pence and maybe Michael Bourn, Berkman's name is out there. Originally, he wanted his $15 million option for 2011 picked up, and if that holds true, he will be tough to unload without Houston paying most of the deal (and that isn't something they'll want to do). "That's silly. No one's picking that up," one GM said. "He's been better lately but age is catching up a little bit."
With the Astros said to be listening on just about everyone except Hunter Pence and maybe Michael Bourn, Berkman's name is out there. Originally, he wanted his $15 million option for 2011 picked up, and if that holds true, he will be tough to unload without Houston paying most of the deal (and that isn't something they'll want to do). "That's silly. No one's picking that up," one GM said. "He's been better lately but age is catching up a little bit."
With Pettitte out, Yankees may turn to Roy
Now that Pettitte will be out for 4-5 weeks, the Yankees may not find that Sergio Mitre is a very good alternative, says Jay Greenberg:
But if the Yankees were willing to sacrifice a quality prospect like Jesus Montero to rent Lee for three months before buying him this winter, what will they consider a reasonable cost for Roy Oswalt, who is much better than Lopez, or Ted Lilly, who is far more consistent than Burnett?
Much depends upon how long Pettitte is out. But it will take time for a 38-year-old to heal. Meanwhile, the axiom about never having enough pitching remains unchallenged, so the question again is whether Cashman, who suffered burns rivaling those in Pettitte’s groin in dealing for Curtis Granderson, is willing to risk more prospects to ensure not only a trip to postseason, but success during it.
Although River Ave. Blues thinks otherwise:
Roy Oswalt and Dan Haren are pipe dreams, the Yanks aren’t going to make a major move like that to fill a hole for one or two months.
Except that Roy could fill a hole for eight or nine, or even fifteen months.
Buster Olney says this:
Even in the aftermath of Andy Pettitte's injury, the Yankees' focus is not on adding a starting pitcher; rather, the clear priority is improving the bench, and in order of importance, adding a reliever is priority No. 2.
But if the Yankees were willing to sacrifice a quality prospect like Jesus Montero to rent Lee for three months before buying him this winter, what will they consider a reasonable cost for Roy Oswalt, who is much better than Lopez, or Ted Lilly, who is far more consistent than Burnett?
Much depends upon how long Pettitte is out. But it will take time for a 38-year-old to heal. Meanwhile, the axiom about never having enough pitching remains unchallenged, so the question again is whether Cashman, who suffered burns rivaling those in Pettitte’s groin in dealing for Curtis Granderson, is willing to risk more prospects to ensure not only a trip to postseason, but success during it.
Although River Ave. Blues thinks otherwise:
Roy Oswalt and Dan Haren are pipe dreams, the Yanks aren’t going to make a major move like that to fill a hole for one or two months.
Except that Roy could fill a hole for eight or nine, or even fifteen months.
Buster Olney says this:
Even in the aftermath of Andy Pettitte's injury, the Yankees' focus is not on adding a starting pitcher; rather, the clear priority is improving the bench, and in order of importance, adding a reliever is priority No. 2.
Health concerns forcing the Astros to throw two LHPs
Because Paulino and Moehler are out, the Astros will send Wandy and Wesley Wright at the Cubs, giving the heavily right-handed lineup two lefties in a row.
Mills:
"If we had our druthers, we probably would do it a different way. But we don't have that right now."
The Astros could have done it a different way! Mills knows that Wade didn't have to call up Wright, yeah? Maybe consulting with the coaching staff and hearing, "Hey, maybe it's not a good idea to send two lefties on the road against a team hitting .278/.338/.443, the second highest OPS vs. LHP in the league!" would have been a good idea. And then the Astros could have called up Josh Banks. Instead, the Astros are going to make it as hard as humanly possible to win these games against the Cubs.
Where's the plan with this team?
Mills:
"If we had our druthers, we probably would do it a different way. But we don't have that right now."
The Astros could have done it a different way! Mills knows that Wade didn't have to call up Wright, yeah? Maybe consulting with the coaching staff and hearing, "Hey, maybe it's not a good idea to send two lefties on the road against a team hitting .278/.338/.443, the second highest OPS vs. LHP in the league!" would have been a good idea. And then the Astros could have called up Josh Banks. Instead, the Astros are going to make it as hard as humanly possible to win these games against the Cubs.
Where's the plan with this team?
Oswalt drilled on ankle, might be okay
It was the worst game of the year. Easy. To get three hits and shutout by Paul Maholm, where Roy gets hit on the ankle with a line drive 13 days before the trade deadline, and the Astros lose 9-0 (and out-hit 19-3). It's condescending to refer to the Pirates as the worst team in the League, because we have evidence in this three-game series that suggests otherwise. The worst team in the NL just may be ours.
Roy, on what happened:
“It hit me pretty good, hit me straight on and really didn’t get any shoe, all ankle. I knew the longer I stayed out there the more it was going to start swelling. I couldn’t really finish pitches. I couldn’t really get through pitches and left two balls kind of spinning in the plate and got a few hits. It got to the point I started cutting my mechanics off. And I didn’t want to hurt myself trying to throw a different way.”
Mills:
"This is something that should be able to clear up in a couple of days. We’ll know more about that (today), but at this point, yeah, we expect him to be able to make his next start.”
Roy, on what happened:
“It hit me pretty good, hit me straight on and really didn’t get any shoe, all ankle. I knew the longer I stayed out there the more it was going to start swelling. I couldn’t really finish pitches. I couldn’t really get through pitches and left two balls kind of spinning in the plate and got a few hits. It got to the point I started cutting my mechanics off. And I didn’t want to hurt myself trying to throw a different way.”
Mills:
"This is something that should be able to clear up in a couple of days. We’ll know more about that (today), but at this point, yeah, we expect him to be able to make his next start.”
Captain Obvious: Let's move Carlos Lee!
Richard Justice thinks the Astros need to move Carlos Lee, dadgummit!
To give a player a nine-figure contract, an organization has to be absolutely certain about his desire, work ethic and skills. If the Astros didn't understand that Lee occasionally had a laid-back attitude, shame on them.
But enough about the past. What's done is done. The Astros aren't going to turn any kind of corner in the hearts and minds of fans until they give Lee his walking papers. Fair or not, he has come to symbolize the organization's stupidity.
If there is an unmoveable contract in baseball, it's Carlos Lee's. And now that Barry Zito had a good first couple of months, Lee's contract looks like the worst in baseball. After this season, Lee will be owed $37 million. And he's hitting .235 with a .282 OBP and a .387 SLG. Among the major-leaguers with a qualifying number of ABs, the following players have higher slugging percentages: Yuniesky Betancourt, Howie Kendrick, Brett Gardner, Shin-Soo Choo, and 130 other major-leaguers.
Had Carlos Lee been hitting .330 with a .620 SLG, his contract may have been more valuable. But who wants a left-fielder who looks like he couldn't give a crap hitting .235 with $37 million owed to him? No one. So what, you're going to flush $37 million and release him? Nope. Nice suggestion, Justice. I think if the IRS wants to work its way into our hearts and minds, they should suspend income tax. But that isn't going to happen either.
To give a player a nine-figure contract, an organization has to be absolutely certain about his desire, work ethic and skills. If the Astros didn't understand that Lee occasionally had a laid-back attitude, shame on them.
But enough about the past. What's done is done. The Astros aren't going to turn any kind of corner in the hearts and minds of fans until they give Lee his walking papers. Fair or not, he has come to symbolize the organization's stupidity.
If there is an unmoveable contract in baseball, it's Carlos Lee's. And now that Barry Zito had a good first couple of months, Lee's contract looks like the worst in baseball. After this season, Lee will be owed $37 million. And he's hitting .235 with a .282 OBP and a .387 SLG. Among the major-leaguers with a qualifying number of ABs, the following players have higher slugging percentages: Yuniesky Betancourt, Howie Kendrick, Brett Gardner, Shin-Soo Choo, and 130 other major-leaguers.
Had Carlos Lee been hitting .330 with a .620 SLG, his contract may have been more valuable. But who wants a left-fielder who looks like he couldn't give a crap hitting .235 with $37 million owed to him? No one. So what, you're going to flush $37 million and release him? Nope. Nice suggestion, Justice. I think if the IRS wants to work its way into our hearts and minds, they should suspend income tax. But that isn't going to happen either.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Daigle designated for assignment
Casey Daigle has been designated for assignment following today's game (0.1IP, 4H/3ER, 1BB) against the Pirates (which may or may not get County Clerked. I'm too depressed to do it, and the County Clerk is at a rally.) Who replaces him? Why, Gary Majewski, of course!
The same Gary Majewski who hasn't been in the Majors since 2008, and who has a 4.04 ERA/1.29 WHIP in 35.2IP (35H/16ER, 21K:11BB) for Round Rock this season.
Just want to point out that Jonah Bayliss has thrown 41.1IP at Round Rock, has allowed 40H/15ER, 41K:12BB, and has a 3.27 ERA/1.26 WHIP. Both Majewski and Bayliss are 30, righties, and weren't on the 40-man roster. Bayliss also has a delivery slower than molasses, so maybe the Astros just wanted to get games over with.
The same Gary Majewski who hasn't been in the Majors since 2008, and who has a 4.04 ERA/1.29 WHIP in 35.2IP (35H/16ER, 21K:11BB) for Round Rock this season.
Just want to point out that Jonah Bayliss has thrown 41.1IP at Round Rock, has allowed 40H/15ER, 41K:12BB, and has a 3.27 ERA/1.26 WHIP. Both Majewski and Bayliss are 30, righties, and weren't on the 40-man roster. Bayliss also has a delivery slower than molasses, so maybe the Astros just wanted to get games over with.
Cafardo on Roy: Too picky?
This may be worthless seeing as how Roy has left the game in the 4th inning after taking a liner off the ankle, but Nick Cafardo mentions Roy in his Sunday column:
One major league source wonders whether Oswalt will get too picky about to which teams he would approve a trade...
...Would Oswalt, who is 70-22 in his career in the second half, approve going to the American League given some of the problems buddy Jake Peavy has had with the White Sox? One evaluator feels Oswalt would translate well in the AL. The reasons? “He pounds that four-seam fastball low in the zone and he has that looping curve that could freeze hitters. He’s obviously a great competitor who would get his juices flowing in a pennant race. For the year and a half he has left on the contract? I’d think he’d be fine."
One major league source wonders whether Oswalt will get too picky about to which teams he would approve a trade...
...Would Oswalt, who is 70-22 in his career in the second half, approve going to the American League given some of the problems buddy Jake Peavy has had with the White Sox? One evaluator feels Oswalt would translate well in the AL. The reasons? “He pounds that four-seam fastball low in the zone and he has that looping curve that could freeze hitters. He’s obviously a great competitor who would get his juices flowing in a pennant race. For the year and a half he has left on the contract? I’d think he’d be fine."
Just in case you weren't aware, Justice wants to remind you that sometimes young players don't start well
Richard Justice has some obvious things to point out:
Chris Johnson made another error, and Bud Norris had a bad day at the office. This is the kind of game that reminds you that young players will frustrate you and test you and make you wonder if they're ever going to get it. But the Astros have absolutely no choice except to keep running them out there and giving them chances and finding out about them.
There's no blueprint for doing this. Brad Mills and his coaches must coach them and put them in a learning environment and continue to show confidence in them. Some of them will come out of this and be productive major league players.
Young players come with a high failure rate. That's why a good draft is one in which a team brings 50 players into its system and hopes and prays that two or three of them become contributors...
...If the Astros are lucky this season, there'll be plenty of nights when Johnson and Castro and the others thrill us and give us glimpses of what they can be. But there are going to be nights when the game looks oh so hard for them. It's tough to watch, but it's the only way to build a winning franchise.
Noted.
Chris Johnson made another error, and Bud Norris had a bad day at the office. This is the kind of game that reminds you that young players will frustrate you and test you and make you wonder if they're ever going to get it. But the Astros have absolutely no choice except to keep running them out there and giving them chances and finding out about them.
There's no blueprint for doing this. Brad Mills and his coaches must coach them and put them in a learning environment and continue to show confidence in them. Some of them will come out of this and be productive major league players.
Young players come with a high failure rate. That's why a good draft is one in which a team brings 50 players into its system and hopes and prays that two or three of them become contributors...
...If the Astros are lucky this season, there'll be plenty of nights when Johnson and Castro and the others thrill us and give us glimpses of what they can be. But there are going to be nights when the game looks oh so hard for them. It's tough to watch, but it's the only way to build a winning franchise.
Noted.
What's this? Someone promoting accountability
Jeff Bagwell is demanding accountability from the few guys who actually get on base - meaning Carlos Lee doesn't have to pay attention in this part of the team meeting.
Bagwell:
"I expect guys to run the bases. Their job as hitters is not done after they reach first base. Their job is done when they reach home plate. That's something I'm going to be on the guys about, going from first to third, because it's going to help the hitter behind them. That's important to me. There's a certain way the Houston Astros play baseball, and I want to make sure we're playing that way."
And that sound you hear is Drayton going from six to midnight.
Berkman:
"You definitely don't want to disappoint Baggy. He's kind of like your dad — you don't want to do anything to disappoint him."
Bagwell:
"I expect guys to run the bases. Their job as hitters is not done after they reach first base. Their job is done when they reach home plate. That's something I'm going to be on the guys about, going from first to third, because it's going to help the hitter behind them. That's important to me. There's a certain way the Houston Astros play baseball, and I want to make sure we're playing that way."
And that sound you hear is Drayton going from six to midnight.
Berkman:
"You definitely don't want to disappoint Baggy. He's kind of like your dad — you don't want to do anything to disappoint him."
It's supposed to be a feel-good story, right?
Bernardo Fallas has an article placing Roy as the Astros' greatest pitcher of all-time. We'll get to that when/if Roy gets traded. But it sounds like Roy is counting down his three starts before the trading deadline:
“It comes down to three starts and doing what you can to win them. All I can do is go out there and try to put the team in a situation to win, and that’s pretty much what you can ask of yourself from the standpoint of a starting pitcher.”
Does anyone else feel nasty feting Roy for trying to set the wins record at home, while at the same time hoping he gets traded so we can get this franchise back on track?
“It comes down to three starts and doing what you can to win them. All I can do is go out there and try to put the team in a situation to win, and that’s pretty much what you can ask of yourself from the standpoint of a starting pitcher.”
Does anyone else feel nasty feting Roy for trying to set the wins record at home, while at the same time hoping he gets traded so we can get this franchise back on track?
That's just weird, Lance
Strange, strange note in the Denver Post, after Todd Helton let Brad Hawpe use his glove.
Helton, on whether he had ever done that before:
"Lance Berkman used my (protective) cup in an All-Star Game once, but never my glove."
Helton, on whether he had ever done that before:
"Lance Berkman used my (protective) cup in an All-Star Game once, but never my glove."
ValleyCats turn triple play and Chris Blazek gets promoted
It's worth a separate post, manager Jim Pankovits didn't have much nice to say about the performance:
“We struggled in every area. I don’t know what else to say except that it’s only one game, fortunately.”
But, hey, they did turn a triple play in the 8th:
The triple play came with Brooklyn’s Juan Centeno at second base and Cody Holliday at first.
Luis Nieves lifted a soft-liner that Figueroa grabbed and fired off balance to Hernandez, who pivoted quickly and threw to Burnett.
“Tyler did a great job calling for the ball,” Hernandez said, “and I just reacted to it.
“I didn’t know if I had a chance (for the third out), I was just trying to get it and get rid of it as quickly as I could.”
Some conjectured that Holliday was out and that base umpire Aaron Reynolds may have decided to give the long-suffering hometown fans something to cheer about, as Holliday appeared to beat Hernandez’s throw.
“No, he was out,” Burnett said.
Still, Pankovits ain't happy with his team:
Pankovits noted that the ’Cats were “coming off the road,” prior to the game “but so were (the Cyclones). “That’s the way life is in this profession. Travel isn’t that difficult (in the New York-Penn League) and that’s not a legitimate excuse as far as I’m concerned.”
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We also found out from the ValleyCats that LHP Chris Blazek has been promoted to Lancaster. Blazek had reached Double-A in 2008 before an injury kept him out of 2009.
“We struggled in every area. I don’t know what else to say except that it’s only one game, fortunately.”
But, hey, they did turn a triple play in the 8th:
The triple play came with Brooklyn’s Juan Centeno at second base and Cody Holliday at first.
Luis Nieves lifted a soft-liner that Figueroa grabbed and fired off balance to Hernandez, who pivoted quickly and threw to Burnett.
“Tyler did a great job calling for the ball,” Hernandez said, “and I just reacted to it.
“I didn’t know if I had a chance (for the third out), I was just trying to get it and get rid of it as quickly as I could.”
Some conjectured that Holliday was out and that base umpire Aaron Reynolds may have decided to give the long-suffering hometown fans something to cheer about, as Holliday appeared to beat Hernandez’s throw.
“No, he was out,” Burnett said.
Still, Pankovits ain't happy with his team:
Pankovits noted that the ’Cats were “coming off the road,” prior to the game “but so were (the Cyclones). “That’s the way life is in this profession. Travel isn’t that difficult (in the New York-Penn League) and that’s not a legitimate excuse as far as I’m concerned.”
-
We also found out from the ValleyCats that LHP Chris Blazek has been promoted to Lancaster. Blazek had reached Double-A in 2008 before an injury kept him out of 2009.
Cardinals interested in Myers?
Seeing as how the Cardinals won last night, and the Reds may have the piece they were needing with the return of Edinson Volquez (who hopefully is now fertile and ready to produce a child from his uterus), and how Brad Penny now hasn't pitched for two months and isn't nearing a return, the Cardinals are getting the itch. Trying to stay in the race for the NL Central, the Cards are searching for some pitching depth. Hey, we have some guys available!
Post-Dispatch's Joe Strauss:
The Cardinals peruse a market that features Arizona Diamondbacks ace Dan Haren, Cleveland Indians pitchers Jake Westbrook and Fausto Carmona, the Kansas City Royals' Brian Bannister and the Baltimore Orioles' Jeremy Guthrie. The Houston Astros are accepting bids for Roy Oswalt; however, the Cardinals see Brett Myers as more attainable and perhaps as good a fit for a rotation seeking innings.
Oswalt requires a minimum $18 million investment beyond this season and a higher cost in players. Myers, a potential free agent carrying a $5.1 million contract, has worked at least six innings in each of 19 starts this season.
Post-Dispatch's Joe Strauss:
The Cardinals peruse a market that features Arizona Diamondbacks ace Dan Haren, Cleveland Indians pitchers Jake Westbrook and Fausto Carmona, the Kansas City Royals' Brian Bannister and the Baltimore Orioles' Jeremy Guthrie. The Houston Astros are accepting bids for Roy Oswalt; however, the Cardinals see Brett Myers as more attainable and perhaps as good a fit for a rotation seeking innings.
Oswalt requires a minimum $18 million investment beyond this season and a higher cost in players. Myers, a potential free agent carrying a $5.1 million contract, has worked at least six innings in each of 19 starts this season.
Eddie's Farm: July 17
Round Rock
A day after combining for 29 runs, Albuquerque managed to shutout Round Rock 3-0. Andy Van Hekken allowed 10H/3ER, 4K:2BB, but kept the Isotopes to an 0x6 line w/RISP. Danny Meszaros threw a scoreless 8th in his Triple-A debut. The Express only got five hits on the night - two from Tommy Everidge, and one from Bogusevic, Vazquez (double), and Edwin Bellorin.
Man of the Match: Andy Van Hekken
Corpus
RALLY! Corpus scores three in the eighth for a 4-2 win. Doug Arguello threw 5IP, 8H/2ER, 1K:4BB in the start. The bullpen held Frisco to 0H/2BB over the final four innings. Matt Nevarez took the win with two scoreless innings, and Jeilen Peguero and Evan Englebrook also threw scoreless innings to close it out. Freddy Parejo was 2x4 with 2RBI, and Jon Gaston was 2x3 with a walk. Jack Shuck got on base twice via hit and walk, and J.D. Martinez hit a two-out, go-ahead two-run triple in the eighth.
Man of the Match: I'm sorry, it's going to J.D. Martinez again.
Lancaster
Ross Seaton struggled again as San Jose beat Lancaster 7-5. Seaton allowed 10H/6ER in 3IP, with 3K:0BB and 3HR. Edwin Walker allowed 3H/0ER, 2K:3BB in 4IP of relief, while Brian Wabick allowed a run in IP, and Kyle Godfrey threw a perfect 9th. Brian Pellegrini and Barry Butera each hit two run homers and Lee Cruz hit a solo shot, meaning that all five JetHawk runs came by the long ball. Brandon Wikoff was 2x3, and John Curtis was on base twice with a hit and drawing the only walk of the game.
Man of the Match: Barry Butera.
Lexington
Another rough start for Brad Dydalewicz and the Legends pitching staff leads to a 15-4 win for Hickory. Dydalewicz allowed 8H/10ER, with 2K:8BB (eight walks, just in case you were skimming) for 16 baserunners in 4IP. Mike Schurz allowed two of those runs with his own performance - 2.2IP, 6H/5ER, 3K:1BB. Dan Sarisky threw 1.1IP, 1H/0ER and Colton Pitkin threw a perfect 9th. Jake Goebbert was 3x4 with a double and a homer, and Altuve, Hinze (RBI), Meyer (RBI), and Hogue got the other hits. Jiovanni Mier was pinch-hit for in the 8th after an 0x3 day.
Man of the Match: Jake Goebbert
Tri-City
Brooklyn held Tri-City to four hits in an 8-0 shutout over the ValleyCats. David Martinez allowed 8H/5R (3ER), 1K:1BB; Jason Chowning allowed 2H/1ER (and two of Martinez' runs) in 1.1IP. Alex Sogard allowed 5H/2ER, 2K:0BB and Mike Ness got the final out of the game. The ValleyCats committed almost as many errors (3) as they got hits (4). Errors by Kvasnicka, Enrique Hernandez, and Wilton Infante led to two unearned runs. Tyler Burnett (double, BB), Ben Heath, Dan Adamson, and Wilton Infante provided your hits.
Man of the Match: Tyler Burnett.
Greeneville
Doubleheader with Bluefield...
Game 1: Bluefield gets six in the top of the first, and then holds on for a 9-6 win. Ruben Alaniz allowed 5H/6ER, 0K:2BB in 0.2IP; Garrett Bullock struck out six, walked one, and allowed three hits (one of Alaniz' runs) in 3.1IP, and Paul Gerrish allowed 2H/3R (1ER), 2K:2BB in 3IP. Bryce Lane and Hector Rodriguez were each 2x3; Ricardo Garcia, Jonathan Merritt, Emilio King, Ryan Humphrey (HR), and Rodriguez provided your RBI. Alaniz has allowed 16ER in his last 3.1IP - having allowed 2ER in his first 16IP.
Man of the Match: Garrett Bullock
Game 2: Once again, Bluefield got out to a 6-0 lead, and despite a late run, Greeneville lost 6-3. Jeiler Castillo allowed 4H/3R (2ER), Phil Rorabaugh was charged with three unearned runs in 1IP, and Justin Harper walked three, but didn't allow a hit in 2IP. Hector Rodriguez' two errors, and one from Rorabaugh led to four unearned runs. The six Gastros hits were spread out over six players, with Jonathan Merritt (3B) and Ryan Humphrey (2RBI) standing out. Our Boy Bubby Williams - recipient of the 2nd Annual Astros County Adopt-a-Player contest - was 0x2 with a walk and a run.
Man of the Match: Ryan Humphrey.
GCL Astros
The GCL Marlins got themselves a walk-off in the 11th for a 3-2 win over the GCL Astros. Francis Ramirez allowed 1H/0ER, 1K:3BB in 3IP; Matison Smith gave up 6H/2R (1ER) in 4IP. Recently-demoted B.J. Hagen took the loss with 3H/1R (0ER), 0K:2BB in 3.1IP with Pedro Gomez facing one batter, and ending the game with a throwing error by 2B Josh Magee that scored Yefri Perez. Jordan Scott had your only multi-hit game (2x4, BB), and Jose Vargas was 0x5 with 2RBI and an outfield assist (nailing Lopez at home in the 7th).
Man of the Match: Jose Vargas.
A day after combining for 29 runs, Albuquerque managed to shutout Round Rock 3-0. Andy Van Hekken allowed 10H/3ER, 4K:2BB, but kept the Isotopes to an 0x6 line w/RISP. Danny Meszaros threw a scoreless 8th in his Triple-A debut. The Express only got five hits on the night - two from Tommy Everidge, and one from Bogusevic, Vazquez (double), and Edwin Bellorin.
Man of the Match: Andy Van Hekken
Corpus
RALLY! Corpus scores three in the eighth for a 4-2 win. Doug Arguello threw 5IP, 8H/2ER, 1K:4BB in the start. The bullpen held Frisco to 0H/2BB over the final four innings. Matt Nevarez took the win with two scoreless innings, and Jeilen Peguero and Evan Englebrook also threw scoreless innings to close it out. Freddy Parejo was 2x4 with 2RBI, and Jon Gaston was 2x3 with a walk. Jack Shuck got on base twice via hit and walk, and J.D. Martinez hit a two-out, go-ahead two-run triple in the eighth.
Man of the Match: I'm sorry, it's going to J.D. Martinez again.
Lancaster
Ross Seaton struggled again as San Jose beat Lancaster 7-5. Seaton allowed 10H/6ER in 3IP, with 3K:0BB and 3HR. Edwin Walker allowed 3H/0ER, 2K:3BB in 4IP of relief, while Brian Wabick allowed a run in IP, and Kyle Godfrey threw a perfect 9th. Brian Pellegrini and Barry Butera each hit two run homers and Lee Cruz hit a solo shot, meaning that all five JetHawk runs came by the long ball. Brandon Wikoff was 2x3, and John Curtis was on base twice with a hit and drawing the only walk of the game.
Man of the Match: Barry Butera.
Lexington
Another rough start for Brad Dydalewicz and the Legends pitching staff leads to a 15-4 win for Hickory. Dydalewicz allowed 8H/10ER, with 2K:8BB (eight walks, just in case you were skimming) for 16 baserunners in 4IP. Mike Schurz allowed two of those runs with his own performance - 2.2IP, 6H/5ER, 3K:1BB. Dan Sarisky threw 1.1IP, 1H/0ER and Colton Pitkin threw a perfect 9th. Jake Goebbert was 3x4 with a double and a homer, and Altuve, Hinze (RBI), Meyer (RBI), and Hogue got the other hits. Jiovanni Mier was pinch-hit for in the 8th after an 0x3 day.
Man of the Match: Jake Goebbert
Tri-City
Brooklyn held Tri-City to four hits in an 8-0 shutout over the ValleyCats. David Martinez allowed 8H/5R (3ER), 1K:1BB; Jason Chowning allowed 2H/1ER (and two of Martinez' runs) in 1.1IP. Alex Sogard allowed 5H/2ER, 2K:0BB and Mike Ness got the final out of the game. The ValleyCats committed almost as many errors (3) as they got hits (4). Errors by Kvasnicka, Enrique Hernandez, and Wilton Infante led to two unearned runs. Tyler Burnett (double, BB), Ben Heath, Dan Adamson, and Wilton Infante provided your hits.
Man of the Match: Tyler Burnett.
Greeneville
Doubleheader with Bluefield...
Game 1: Bluefield gets six in the top of the first, and then holds on for a 9-6 win. Ruben Alaniz allowed 5H/6ER, 0K:2BB in 0.2IP; Garrett Bullock struck out six, walked one, and allowed three hits (one of Alaniz' runs) in 3.1IP, and Paul Gerrish allowed 2H/3R (1ER), 2K:2BB in 3IP. Bryce Lane and Hector Rodriguez were each 2x3; Ricardo Garcia, Jonathan Merritt, Emilio King, Ryan Humphrey (HR), and Rodriguez provided your RBI. Alaniz has allowed 16ER in his last 3.1IP - having allowed 2ER in his first 16IP.
Man of the Match: Garrett Bullock
Game 2: Once again, Bluefield got out to a 6-0 lead, and despite a late run, Greeneville lost 6-3. Jeiler Castillo allowed 4H/3R (2ER), Phil Rorabaugh was charged with three unearned runs in 1IP, and Justin Harper walked three, but didn't allow a hit in 2IP. Hector Rodriguez' two errors, and one from Rorabaugh led to four unearned runs. The six Gastros hits were spread out over six players, with Jonathan Merritt (3B) and Ryan Humphrey (2RBI) standing out. Our Boy Bubby Williams - recipient of the 2nd Annual Astros County Adopt-a-Player contest - was 0x2 with a walk and a run.
Man of the Match: Ryan Humphrey.
GCL Astros
The GCL Marlins got themselves a walk-off in the 11th for a 3-2 win over the GCL Astros. Francis Ramirez allowed 1H/0ER, 1K:3BB in 3IP; Matison Smith gave up 6H/2R (1ER) in 4IP. Recently-demoted B.J. Hagen took the loss with 3H/1R (0ER), 0K:2BB in 3.1IP with Pedro Gomez facing one batter, and ending the game with a throwing error by 2B Josh Magee that scored Yefri Perez. Jordan Scott had your only multi-hit game (2x4, BB), and Jose Vargas was 0x5 with 2RBI and an outfield assist (nailing Lopez at home in the 7th).
Man of the Match: Jose Vargas.
From the Office of the County Clerk - G91: Astros @ Pirates
Well, thank God that win streak ended. The Astros lose to the Pirates for the first time in a sloppy, sloppy game, 12-6.
*Let's get a few things straight here. Bud Norris sucked it up, that's a fact. We should also remember that he has made 23 career starts. This is on-the-job training for him. Norris allowed 9H/7R (4ER), 4K:2BB in 4.2IP, needing 98 pitched to get 14 outs.
*Tonight's start is the fifth start (out of 13) that Norris hasn't completed the fifth inning. His Game Score of 26 is the third-lowest of the season (25 against the Dodgers, 19 against the Braves).
*How about this: At home, Norris has allowed 33H/24ER in 29.1IP, 35K:17BB. With tonight's game, he's allowed 46H/22ER in 38.2IP, with 38K:16BB.
*Norris only threw 12 first-pitch strikes to 26 batters.
*The Astros allowed 17 hits to the Pirates tonight - a season high for them, as were the 12 runs. It's the 10th game this season that the Astros have allowed 15+ hits. Norris has started three of those games.
*Casey Daigle has had a rough time of it lately, especially tonight, when he allowed 5H/3ER in 1IP. It's a season-high for hits allowed, namely because relievers aren't normally allowed to remain in a game long enough to give up five hits. However, in the 12 appearances he's made, he's allowed 10 earned runs in 10 innings.
*In his 12 appearances, Daigle has allowed an earned run in seven of them, and the Astros are 4-8 in games in which he pitches.
*This is the 21st game in which the Astros have scored 6+ runs, and they are now 17-4 in those games. It's the 8th game that the Astros have allowed 10+ runs. They're obviously 0-8.
*Carlos Lee was 0x4, and looked like he was still suspended for missing a voluntary practice. It's the 31st 0-fer of his season. He only had 42 0-fers in all of 2009.
*Berkman was 0x1 with three walks drawn. His 50 walks push him to 14th in the Majors in walks drawn. Only Chipper Jones has more walks in fewer ABs than Berkman.
*Bourn was 1x5 with 2RBI on the night. It's the first RBI Bourn has recorded since July 1, which was also the date of his last extra-base hit before tonight's double.
*Of the 27 outs the Astros made, only five of them were outs recorded in the outfield. So if you can do math, 16 of the Astros' outs came in the infield, and six were by strikeout.
*The loss tonight drops the Astros to 20-20 since June 1, with 163 runs scored, and 188 runs against.
Pitch Count Hero: Lance Berkman (0x1, 3BB) - 22 pitches in four PAs.
Pitch Count Punk: Carlos Lee (0x4) - 10 pitches in four PAs.
Man of the Match: Uh...How about Berkman, who got on base three times.
Goat of the Game: Bud Norris.
*Let's get a few things straight here. Bud Norris sucked it up, that's a fact. We should also remember that he has made 23 career starts. This is on-the-job training for him. Norris allowed 9H/7R (4ER), 4K:2BB in 4.2IP, needing 98 pitched to get 14 outs.
*Tonight's start is the fifth start (out of 13) that Norris hasn't completed the fifth inning. His Game Score of 26 is the third-lowest of the season (25 against the Dodgers, 19 against the Braves).
*How about this: At home, Norris has allowed 33H/24ER in 29.1IP, 35K:17BB. With tonight's game, he's allowed 46H/22ER in 38.2IP, with 38K:16BB.
*Norris only threw 12 first-pitch strikes to 26 batters.
*The Astros allowed 17 hits to the Pirates tonight - a season high for them, as were the 12 runs. It's the 10th game this season that the Astros have allowed 15+ hits. Norris has started three of those games.
*Casey Daigle has had a rough time of it lately, especially tonight, when he allowed 5H/3ER in 1IP. It's a season-high for hits allowed, namely because relievers aren't normally allowed to remain in a game long enough to give up five hits. However, in the 12 appearances he's made, he's allowed 10 earned runs in 10 innings.
*In his 12 appearances, Daigle has allowed an earned run in seven of them, and the Astros are 4-8 in games in which he pitches.
*This is the 21st game in which the Astros have scored 6+ runs, and they are now 17-4 in those games. It's the 8th game that the Astros have allowed 10+ runs. They're obviously 0-8.
*Carlos Lee was 0x4, and looked like he was still suspended for missing a voluntary practice. It's the 31st 0-fer of his season. He only had 42 0-fers in all of 2009.
*Berkman was 0x1 with three walks drawn. His 50 walks push him to 14th in the Majors in walks drawn. Only Chipper Jones has more walks in fewer ABs than Berkman.
*Bourn was 1x5 with 2RBI on the night. It's the first RBI Bourn has recorded since July 1, which was also the date of his last extra-base hit before tonight's double.
*Of the 27 outs the Astros made, only five of them were outs recorded in the outfield. So if you can do math, 16 of the Astros' outs came in the infield, and six were by strikeout.
*The loss tonight drops the Astros to 20-20 since June 1, with 163 runs scored, and 188 runs against.
Pitch Count Hero: Lance Berkman (0x1, 3BB) - 22 pitches in four PAs.
Pitch Count Punk: Carlos Lee (0x4) - 10 pitches in four PAs.
Man of the Match: Uh...How about Berkman, who got on base three times.
Goat of the Game: Bud Norris.
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