The G-Stros season ended last night. This team was fun to watch and they brought playoff baseball back to Greeneville. It was an enjoyable season. I wish these players the best of luck as their journey continues.
But I am not just posting about the season ending, I am also announcing it is time for this blog to end. Just over three years ago I started this blog with a mission to follow the current and former G-Stros. I started it because I was following those guys anyway and thought others might have some interest in what I had to say. It has been a fun and interesting three years.
There are multiple factors that make now the right time for me to end this and I won't bore you with the details. It is the right decision for me and I am at peace with my decision. I am looking forward to returning to being just a fan.
Over the last three plus years, I made great friends in the Astros blogging community. People like Jayne at WhatTheHeckBobby, Brooks, and Tim at the CrawfishBoxes, Mike at Farmstros, Bryan & James at AstrosCounty, Terri who post in several places and the whole gang in the bus ride forum at OWA. There are many more and I plan on keeping those relationships going and might just pop up on one of their sites for a guest post someday. Several have left that option open for me, and I appreciate it. They quality minor league coverage provided by these folks makes it very easy for me to step back and enjoy being just a fan.
I want to say thanks for taking the time to visit me little section of
the internet. Your visits, feedback, re-tweets of my material and
comments have been the fuel that has kept me going. I still look
forward to discussing baseball with folks on twitter and
via email but I will no longer be doing any writing about it.
Go G-Stros.
Friday, September 6, 2013
Monday, September 2, 2013
Appy Astros Alumni of the Month: August 2013
Well another summer is drawing to a close. Playoff baseball has returned to Greeneville and many of the Astros affiliates are preparing for their playoffs to start. Let's look at the former G-Stros in affiliated ball and see who stood out in August.
Tri City ValleyCats:
Pitcher of the Month
Gonzalo Sanudo appeared in seven games in August and got six saves. He struck out 17 batters in 11 1/3 innings pitched. He allowed just three hits and one walk.
Honorable Mention goes to Michael Feliz is having a break out season in Tri-City. In August, he pitched in five games (four starts) and had an ERA of 1.75. He struck out 26 batters in 25 2/3 innings pitched.
Tyler Brunnemann also gets a nod. He appeared in seven games after his call up from Greeneville. In those appearances, he struck out 10 batters in 8 1/3 innings and allowed just one earned run.
Hitter of the Month
Tyler White hit .265 in August and had more walks (9) than strike outs (7).
Quad Cities River Bandits
Pitcher of the Month
Three relievers will share the award for this month.
Andrew Walter appeared in five games (10 1/3 IP) and had a perfect 0.00 ERA. He fanned 10 batters.
Mitchell Lambson appeared in eight games (18 1/3 IP) and only allowed one run for a 0.49 ERA with 25 strike outs. He allowed just nine hits and four walks for the month.
Jamaine Cotton appeared in eight games (21 IP) and had an impressive 0.86 ERA with two saves. He only struck out 12 but he only allowed 13 hits.
Hitter of the Month
Carlos Correa hit .336 for August with a .430 on base percentage and 13 extra base hits.
Honorable Mention goes to Rio Ruiz who hit .298 for the month and had 17 extra base hits.
Lancaster JetHawks
Pitcher of the Month
Michael Dimock appeared in eight games (14 2/3 IP) and only allowed two earned runs (1.23 ERA). He struck out 14 batters while only allowing three walks.
Hitter of the Month
Delino DeShields hit .365 in 23 games this month with an impressive on base percentage of .455. He also stole 11 bases in 13 attempts.
Corpus Christi Hooks
Pitcher of the Month
Carlos Quevedo had a great month out of the CC bullpen. He didn't allow a run in 8 appearances (16 IP). He allowed just five walks and five hits while striking out 18 batters.
Honorable Mention goes to Michael Foltynewicz who maintained a respectable 3.63 ERA in August. It appears he is beginning to tire some as his strike out numbers reduce (just 13 in 22 1/3 IP) but he is still pitching well.
Luis Cruz has shown he belongs in AA. In his four appearances since arriving in CC, he has a 0.53 ERA in 17 innings pitched. He has struck out 21 batters during that time.
Hitter of the Month
Luis Alvarez gets the nod this month not because of his average in Corpus Christ (.235 for August in six games) but because in a span of about a month and a half, he moved up from SS-A ball to A to Hi-A to AA. That is a rare four level season and deserves notice.
Oklahoma City RedHawks
Pitcher of the Month
Pat Urckfitz appeared in nine games for the RedHawks bullpen in August. He allowed a 2.08 ERA in 8 2/3 innings pitched.
Hitter of the Month
Rene Garcia continues to represent himself well with the bat. He hit .258 in 17 games after his promotion from CC. He also had thrown out four out of nine base runners so far.
Non Astros Affiliates
Pitcher of the Month
Arcenio Leon pitched in 11 games for Huntsville (AA-Brewers) in August. He allowed just two runs in 13 2/3 innings out of the bullpen for a 1.32 ERA.
Hitter of the Month
Jordan Parraz hit .319 for New Britan (AA- Twins).
MLB
It wasn't a stellar month for former G-Stros in the big league. So we are going to leave these honors vacant for the month.
Tri City ValleyCats:
Pitcher of the Month
Gonzalo Sanudo appeared in seven games in August and got six saves. He struck out 17 batters in 11 1/3 innings pitched. He allowed just three hits and one walk.
Honorable Mention goes to Michael Feliz is having a break out season in Tri-City. In August, he pitched in five games (four starts) and had an ERA of 1.75. He struck out 26 batters in 25 2/3 innings pitched.
Tyler Brunnemann also gets a nod. He appeared in seven games after his call up from Greeneville. In those appearances, he struck out 10 batters in 8 1/3 innings and allowed just one earned run.
Hitter of the Month
Tyler White hit .265 in August and had more walks (9) than strike outs (7).
Quad Cities River Bandits
Pitcher of the Month
Three relievers will share the award for this month.
Andrew Walter appeared in five games (10 1/3 IP) and had a perfect 0.00 ERA. He fanned 10 batters.
Mitchell Lambson appeared in eight games (18 1/3 IP) and only allowed one run for a 0.49 ERA with 25 strike outs. He allowed just nine hits and four walks for the month.
Jamaine Cotton appeared in eight games (21 IP) and had an impressive 0.86 ERA with two saves. He only struck out 12 but he only allowed 13 hits.
Hitter of the Month
Carlos Correa hit .336 for August with a .430 on base percentage and 13 extra base hits.
Honorable Mention goes to Rio Ruiz who hit .298 for the month and had 17 extra base hits.
Lancaster JetHawks
Pitcher of the Month
Michael Dimock appeared in eight games (14 2/3 IP) and only allowed two earned runs (1.23 ERA). He struck out 14 batters while only allowing three walks.
Hitter of the Month
Delino DeShields hit .365 in 23 games this month with an impressive on base percentage of .455. He also stole 11 bases in 13 attempts.
Corpus Christi Hooks
Pitcher of the Month
Carlos Quevedo had a great month out of the CC bullpen. He didn't allow a run in 8 appearances (16 IP). He allowed just five walks and five hits while striking out 18 batters.
Honorable Mention goes to Michael Foltynewicz who maintained a respectable 3.63 ERA in August. It appears he is beginning to tire some as his strike out numbers reduce (just 13 in 22 1/3 IP) but he is still pitching well.
Luis Cruz has shown he belongs in AA. In his four appearances since arriving in CC, he has a 0.53 ERA in 17 innings pitched. He has struck out 21 batters during that time.
Hitter of the Month
Luis Alvarez gets the nod this month not because of his average in Corpus Christ (.235 for August in six games) but because in a span of about a month and a half, he moved up from SS-A ball to A to Hi-A to AA. That is a rare four level season and deserves notice.
Oklahoma City RedHawks
Pitcher of the Month
Pat Urckfitz appeared in nine games for the RedHawks bullpen in August. He allowed a 2.08 ERA in 8 2/3 innings pitched.
Hitter of the Month
Rene Garcia continues to represent himself well with the bat. He hit .258 in 17 games after his promotion from CC. He also had thrown out four out of nine base runners so far.
Non Astros Affiliates
Pitcher of the Month
Arcenio Leon pitched in 11 games for Huntsville (AA-Brewers) in August. He allowed just two runs in 13 2/3 innings out of the bullpen for a 1.32 ERA.
Hitter of the Month
Jordan Parraz hit .319 for New Britan (AA- Twins).
MLB
It wasn't a stellar month for former G-Stros in the big league. So we are going to leave these honors vacant for the month.
Eyewitness Report: Greeneville 1 - Kingsport 3 - Playoffs Begin WIth A Loss
Last night I took in the first game of the Appy League western division playoffs at Pioneer Park. It was nice to have playoff baseball back in Greeneville for the first time in nine years. Here are some of my observations from the game.
On The Mound:
Jandel Gustave got the start for Greeneville. He got off to a rough start as he wasn't quite hitting the right spots for the home plate ump in the first. Later in the game he appeared to be getting those calls but he didn't get them in the first inning. After giving up two runs on three hits and a walk in the first inning, he settled down and pitched the next four innings allowing just one run on three hits, a walk and a hit batter. Gustave struck out seven on the night.
Joe Musgrove relieved Gustave and pitched the final four innings in a dominate fashion. He didn't allow a single base runner while striking out four K-Mets.
At The Plate:
For the month of August, Brett Phillips was two for 15 at the plate. He was rusty after missing almost half the month with a hand injury. Last night, he appeared to shake off the rust and went three for four at the plate. After a bloop hit fell for him in the third, he had line drive hits in the fifth and the seventh.
Juan Santana and Brian Holberton had the only extra base hit for the G-Stros. Each had a double.
The G-Stros were 0-9 with runners in scoring position on the night and that sealed their doom. The most frustrating inning was the fifth. Tanner Mathis and Phillips led off the inning with back to back singles. The next batter tried to move them over on a bunt but Mathis was erased at third. The next batter hit a fly ball to right which allowed Phillips to advance to third. The next batter struck out. Greeneville has done well at manufacturing runs with small ball this season but they couldn't get it done last night.
In The Field:
Two plays deserve mention here. First, Alfredo Gonzalez made a diving catch of a bunt in foul territory in the first inning. Secondly, Thomas Lindauer made a very nice play ranging deep in the hole behind second to throw out a K-Met in the same batter in the seventh.
Summary:
The G-Stros bats just couldn't get the big hit tonight. The pitching and the defense held up their end of the bargain. Greeneville is in a 0-1 hole in the best of three series heading to Kingsport. They face elimination tonight and will be sending Chris Lee to the mound.
On The Mound:
Jandel Gustave got the start for Greeneville. He got off to a rough start as he wasn't quite hitting the right spots for the home plate ump in the first. Later in the game he appeared to be getting those calls but he didn't get them in the first inning. After giving up two runs on three hits and a walk in the first inning, he settled down and pitched the next four innings allowing just one run on three hits, a walk and a hit batter. Gustave struck out seven on the night.
Joe Musgrove relieved Gustave and pitched the final four innings in a dominate fashion. He didn't allow a single base runner while striking out four K-Mets.
At The Plate:
For the month of August, Brett Phillips was two for 15 at the plate. He was rusty after missing almost half the month with a hand injury. Last night, he appeared to shake off the rust and went three for four at the plate. After a bloop hit fell for him in the third, he had line drive hits in the fifth and the seventh.
Juan Santana and Brian Holberton had the only extra base hit for the G-Stros. Each had a double.
The G-Stros were 0-9 with runners in scoring position on the night and that sealed their doom. The most frustrating inning was the fifth. Tanner Mathis and Phillips led off the inning with back to back singles. The next batter tried to move them over on a bunt but Mathis was erased at third. The next batter hit a fly ball to right which allowed Phillips to advance to third. The next batter struck out. Greeneville has done well at manufacturing runs with small ball this season but they couldn't get it done last night.
In The Field:
Two plays deserve mention here. First, Alfredo Gonzalez made a diving catch of a bunt in foul territory in the first inning. Secondly, Thomas Lindauer made a very nice play ranging deep in the hole behind second to throw out a K-Met in the same batter in the seventh.
Summary:
The G-Stros bats just couldn't get the big hit tonight. The pitching and the defense held up their end of the bargain. Greeneville is in a 0-1 hole in the best of three series heading to Kingsport. They face elimination tonight and will be sending Chris Lee to the mound.
Friday, August 30, 2013
Eyewitness Report 8/29/13: Greeneville 2 Danville 3
My son and I took in the G-Stros game last night. Greeneville lose in 10 innings but we had to leave after 7 1/2 because alas it is a school night. Despite the loss, the G-Stros clinched a playoff spot by virtue of Elizabethton losing their game. Here are my observations from the game:
On The Mound
Luis Ordosgoitti took the ball to start the game. He went five innings giving up four hits, two runs (only one was earned), one walk and one hit batter. He struck out three. Ordosgoitti threw pretty well. There were times his curve was very sharp and other times it didn't break. The one hit batter was on a curve that didn't break. Yet overall, his control was pretty good. He only went to three balls on one batter. It was the one batter he walked.
Kevin Ferguson relieved Ordosgoitti in the sixth and pitched three innings. He was effective allowing just one hit. He only used 35 pitches in his three innings of work.
At The Plate
Here are my observations from the seven innings I saw.
Edwin Gomez is living right. He hit two balls right at people that resulted in errors. Both were with two outs and allowed a run to score. The first was a line drive to right center that bounced off the right fielders glove and the was a hard hit ground ball that ate up the second baseman.
Thomas Lindauer had the at bat of the night in my opinion. Leading off the fifth inning, he got in to an 0-2 hole. He then batted to extend the at bat to 11 pitches before reaching on an E6. He went to second on a wild pitch and scored on the E9. Lindauer also lead off the seventh with a single and scored the other Greeneville run.
Chase McDonald had a single and a double in the game.
Wallace Gonzalez was really struggling. In his first three at bats, he struck out swinging each time on a combined 10 pitches. The catcher was setting up outside on every pitch and Gonzalez couldn't reach them.
Brett Phillips is still shaking some rust off from his injury time. He also struck out in each of his first two at bats.
In The Field
Phillips shows no rust in center. He gets great jumps on balls hit to center and shows good range as well.
Juan Santana was a vacuum at second base. He had eight assist and one caught pop in the first eight innings. One ground out was a rare 4-1 put out. The pop out was a catch made near the right field line behind first.
Chase McDonald made two nice saves of throws that were off line from third.
On The Mound
Luis Ordosgoitti took the ball to start the game. He went five innings giving up four hits, two runs (only one was earned), one walk and one hit batter. He struck out three. Ordosgoitti threw pretty well. There were times his curve was very sharp and other times it didn't break. The one hit batter was on a curve that didn't break. Yet overall, his control was pretty good. He only went to three balls on one batter. It was the one batter he walked.
Kevin Ferguson relieved Ordosgoitti in the sixth and pitched three innings. He was effective allowing just one hit. He only used 35 pitches in his three innings of work.
At The Plate
Here are my observations from the seven innings I saw.
Edwin Gomez is living right. He hit two balls right at people that resulted in errors. Both were with two outs and allowed a run to score. The first was a line drive to right center that bounced off the right fielders glove and the was a hard hit ground ball that ate up the second baseman.
Thomas Lindauer had the at bat of the night in my opinion. Leading off the fifth inning, he got in to an 0-2 hole. He then batted to extend the at bat to 11 pitches before reaching on an E6. He went to second on a wild pitch and scored on the E9. Lindauer also lead off the seventh with a single and scored the other Greeneville run.
Chase McDonald had a single and a double in the game.
Wallace Gonzalez was really struggling. In his first three at bats, he struck out swinging each time on a combined 10 pitches. The catcher was setting up outside on every pitch and Gonzalez couldn't reach them.
Brett Phillips is still shaking some rust off from his injury time. He also struck out in each of his first two at bats.
In The Field
Phillips shows no rust in center. He gets great jumps on balls hit to center and shows good range as well.
Juan Santana was a vacuum at second base. He had eight assist and one caught pop in the first eight innings. One ground out was a rare 4-1 put out. The pop out was a catch made near the right field line behind first.
Chase McDonald made two nice saves of throws that were off line from third.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Eyewitness Report: 8/26/13 Greeneville 3 - Bluefield 2
Sorry for the delayed nature of this report. This is the first time I have had to really sit down and focus on what I saw last night. With school back in session, we didn't stay for the last two innings and thus missed the walk off grounder. Let's look at my observations for the first seven innings.
In The Stands:
It was good to see Astros GM Jeff Luhnow in the stands for the game.
On The Mound:
Frederick Tiburcio pitched 5 2/3 innings of good ball. In the first five innings, he had just allowed three base runners and had thrown just 66 pitches (unofficial count). In the fifth, he got the first out on a 1-3 come backer. He then walked his first and only batter of the night. That runner stole second and then advanced to third on a pick of throw that ended in center field. He struck out the next batter before allowing a single that plated the first run. The base runner advanced around the bases on stole bases. The final batter Tiburcio faced hit a gound ball to short that Chase McDonald smothered with a dive but he couldn't recover to get to the base him self and Tiburcio didn't get over in time to cover and the runner was safe and the tying run scored.
Tiburcio finished with 84 pitches unofficially. He struck out six batters. Two of those were strike outs at balls in the dirt that required the catcher to throw down to first. His control was pretty good. Other than the one walk, he didn't go to three balls and any other batter.
Austin Chrismon finished the sixth on one pitch and then pitched the last three innings.
At The Plate:
First of all, it was nice to see Brett Phillips back in the line up. He reached base three times with a double and a pair of walks. He also had a sac bunt.
Tanner Mathis had two singles in the lead off role. He too had a sac bunt.
Thomas Lindauer had two singles and also walked. He scored two runs.
No Astro was credited with an RBI. The first run scored on a 4-6-3 double play with the bases loaded. The second run scored when the ball squirted away from the Bluefield shortstop for an error. The final run scored when it looked like Brian Holberton had grounded into his third double play but the short stop threw the ball away allowing the winning run to score. Good things happen when you put the ball in play.
In The Field:
There were several nice plays made in the field last night. Tiburcio made a behind the back snag of a sharp grounder (ala Jordan Lyles) in the second inning.
Marc Wik made a nice running catch in right field to end the fourth.
Brett Phillips patrolled center and was effective in his return to action.
The Astros struggled with the team speed of Bluefield. Bluefield had four stolen bases in five attempts. They also advanced a base on a blown pick off move.
Odd Game Delay
The start of the game was delayed because the batters boxes were not lined up correctly. They had to scrape the lines up and start over.
In The Stands:
It was good to see Astros GM Jeff Luhnow in the stands for the game.
On The Mound:
Frederick Tiburcio pitched 5 2/3 innings of good ball. In the first five innings, he had just allowed three base runners and had thrown just 66 pitches (unofficial count). In the fifth, he got the first out on a 1-3 come backer. He then walked his first and only batter of the night. That runner stole second and then advanced to third on a pick of throw that ended in center field. He struck out the next batter before allowing a single that plated the first run. The base runner advanced around the bases on stole bases. The final batter Tiburcio faced hit a gound ball to short that Chase McDonald smothered with a dive but he couldn't recover to get to the base him self and Tiburcio didn't get over in time to cover and the runner was safe and the tying run scored.
Tiburcio finished with 84 pitches unofficially. He struck out six batters. Two of those were strike outs at balls in the dirt that required the catcher to throw down to first. His control was pretty good. Other than the one walk, he didn't go to three balls and any other batter.
Austin Chrismon finished the sixth on one pitch and then pitched the last three innings.
At The Plate:
First of all, it was nice to see Brett Phillips back in the line up. He reached base three times with a double and a pair of walks. He also had a sac bunt.
Tanner Mathis had two singles in the lead off role. He too had a sac bunt.
Thomas Lindauer had two singles and also walked. He scored two runs.
No Astro was credited with an RBI. The first run scored on a 4-6-3 double play with the bases loaded. The second run scored when the ball squirted away from the Bluefield shortstop for an error. The final run scored when it looked like Brian Holberton had grounded into his third double play but the short stop threw the ball away allowing the winning run to score. Good things happen when you put the ball in play.
In The Field:
There were several nice plays made in the field last night. Tiburcio made a behind the back snag of a sharp grounder (ala Jordan Lyles) in the second inning.
Marc Wik made a nice running catch in right field to end the fourth.
Brett Phillips patrolled center and was effective in his return to action.
The Astros struggled with the team speed of Bluefield. Bluefield had four stolen bases in five attempts. They also advanced a base on a blown pick off move.
Odd Game Delay
The start of the game was delayed because the batters boxes were not lined up correctly. They had to scrape the lines up and start over.
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Josh Bonifay Named Appy League Manager of the Year
Greeneville's first year manager, Josh Bonifay, was named the Appy League Manager of the Year yesterday. Bonifay has lead Greeneville to a 35-26 record despite having no Appy League All-Stars on his roster. The G-Stros are currently a half game back of Kingsport in the race for the Appy West title and are two and a half games ahead of Elizabethton for the wild card spot.
Bonifay has been required to mix and match pieces as his roster has been impacted by frequent moves and injuries. The following players have been promoted during the 2013 season: Bobby Borchering (.259) to Quad Cities, Jack Mayfield (.255), J.D. Osborne (0.00 ERA), Tyler Brunnemann (4.66 ERA), Tyler White (.344), Troy Scribner (0.00 ERA), Gonzalo Sanudo (1.29 ERA), Edison Frias (3.09 ERA), and Krishawn Holley (2.41 ERA) to Tri-City.
Add to those defections, the loss of Brett Phillips to an injured hand. Phillips has just played in one game since July 29th. He is an important part of the top of the line up and an key defensive piece in center field.
Another indication of the juggling that Bonifay has done is that thus far, is the lack of constancy he has had in his line up. Only five players have appeared in 2/3 of the G-Stros 61 games. They are: Juan Santana (54 gms - .234), Tanner Mathis (54 gms - .262), Ariel Ovando (47 gms - .222), Marc Wik (44 gms- .269), and Chase McDonald (40 gms - .260).
Under Bonifay, the G-Stros have set records for most walks taken as a team (282 and counting) and a player (Tanner Mathis - 43). The old records for the team were 256 in 2004. For an individual, the season record was 37 by Brandon Caipen in 2006 and the career record was 42 by Devon Torrance in 07-08. They have also set a team record with 36 sacrifice hits. The old record was 25 in 2004. Juan Santana has 10 of those sac hits.
They have also set the team record for number of saves in a season with 22. The old record was 19 set in 2004 and 2009. They still have a shot at setting new records for fewest hits allowed, fewest runs allowed and fewest earned runs allowed.
They have also had team record winning streaks of seven games and 10 games.
Congrats to Josh Bonifay on this recognition. He is the second G-Stro manager to receive this award (Tim Bogar 2004).
Bonifay has been required to mix and match pieces as his roster has been impacted by frequent moves and injuries. The following players have been promoted during the 2013 season: Bobby Borchering (.259) to Quad Cities, Jack Mayfield (.255), J.D. Osborne (0.00 ERA), Tyler Brunnemann (4.66 ERA), Tyler White (.344), Troy Scribner (0.00 ERA), Gonzalo Sanudo (1.29 ERA), Edison Frias (3.09 ERA), and Krishawn Holley (2.41 ERA) to Tri-City.
Add to those defections, the loss of Brett Phillips to an injured hand. Phillips has just played in one game since July 29th. He is an important part of the top of the line up and an key defensive piece in center field.
Another indication of the juggling that Bonifay has done is that thus far, is the lack of constancy he has had in his line up. Only five players have appeared in 2/3 of the G-Stros 61 games. They are: Juan Santana (54 gms - .234), Tanner Mathis (54 gms - .262), Ariel Ovando (47 gms - .222), Marc Wik (44 gms- .269), and Chase McDonald (40 gms - .260).
Under Bonifay, the G-Stros have set records for most walks taken as a team (282 and counting) and a player (Tanner Mathis - 43). The old records for the team were 256 in 2004. For an individual, the season record was 37 by Brandon Caipen in 2006 and the career record was 42 by Devon Torrance in 07-08. They have also set a team record with 36 sacrifice hits. The old record was 25 in 2004. Juan Santana has 10 of those sac hits.
They have also set the team record for number of saves in a season with 22. The old record was 19 set in 2004 and 2009. They still have a shot at setting new records for fewest hits allowed, fewest runs allowed and fewest earned runs allowed.
They have also had team record winning streaks of seven games and 10 games.
Congrats to Josh Bonifay on this recognition. He is the second G-Stro manager to receive this award (Tim Bogar 2004).
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
David Martinez makes #16
David Martinez got the call up to the show yesterday. He made his MLB debut tonight becoming the 16th former Greeneville Astro to put on a MLB uniform.
Here is the list of former Greeneville Astros who have made it to the big leagues
#1 RHP J.C. Gutierrez
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 8/19/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently with Angels
#2 LHP Troy Patton
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 8/25/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently with Baltimore Orioles
#3 RHP Felipe Paulino
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 9/5/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently on KC Royals DL
#4 C J.R. Towles
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 9/5/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently in AAA in Dodgers system.
#5 RHP Jimmy Barthmaier
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 6/27/2008 with Pittsburgh Pirates
Out of Baseball
#6 RHP Sammy Gervacio
Greeneville Astros: 2005
MLB Debut: 8/14/2009 with Houston Astros
Out of Baseball
#7 LHP Victor Garate
Greeneville Astros: 2005
MLB Debut: 9/5/2009 with Washington Nationals
Currently in Mexican League (AAA - Unaffiliated)
#8 LHP Fernando Abad
Greeneville Astros: 2007
MLB Debut: 7/28/2010 with Houston Astros
Currently with Washington Nationals
#9 RHP Henry Villar
Greeneville Astros: 2008
MLB Debut: 9/10/2010 with Houston Astros
Out of Baseball
#10 RHP Jordan Lyles
Greeneville Astros: 2008
MLB Debut: 5/31/11 with Houston Astros
Currently with Houston Astros
#11 2B Jose Altuve
Greeneville Astros: 2008-09
MLB Debut: 7/20/11 with Houston Astros -Current
#12 LF J.D. Martinez
Greeneville Astros: 2009
MLB Debut: 7/30/11 with Houston Astros - Currently on the 15 day DL
#13 OF Brandon Barnes
Greeneville Astros: 2005-06
MLB Debut: 8/7/12 with Houston Astros- Current
#14 RHP Jose Cisnero
Greeneville Astros 2009
MLB Debut: 4/22/13
Currently in AAA- Oklahoma City
#15 RHP Jorge De Leon
Greeneville Astros 2008 (as a SS)
MLB Debut 8/9/13
Currently in AAA - Oklahoma City
#16 RHP David Martinez
Greeneville Astro 2009
MLB Debut 8/21/13
Here is the list of former Greeneville Astros who have made it to the big leagues
#1 RHP J.C. Gutierrez
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 8/19/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently with Angels
#2 LHP Troy Patton
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 8/25/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently with Baltimore Orioles
#3 RHP Felipe Paulino
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 9/5/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently on KC Royals DL
#4 C J.R. Towles
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 9/5/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently in AAA in Dodgers system.
#5 RHP Jimmy Barthmaier
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 6/27/2008 with Pittsburgh Pirates
Out of Baseball
#6 RHP Sammy Gervacio
Greeneville Astros: 2005
MLB Debut: 8/14/2009 with Houston Astros
Out of Baseball
#7 LHP Victor Garate
Greeneville Astros: 2005
MLB Debut: 9/5/2009 with Washington Nationals
Currently in Mexican League (AAA - Unaffiliated)
#8 LHP Fernando Abad
Greeneville Astros: 2007
MLB Debut: 7/28/2010 with Houston Astros
Currently with Washington Nationals
#9 RHP Henry Villar
Greeneville Astros: 2008
MLB Debut: 9/10/2010 with Houston Astros
Out of Baseball
#10 RHP Jordan Lyles
Greeneville Astros: 2008
MLB Debut: 5/31/11 with Houston Astros
Currently with Houston Astros
#11 2B Jose Altuve
Greeneville Astros: 2008-09
MLB Debut: 7/20/11 with Houston Astros -Current
#12 LF J.D. Martinez
Greeneville Astros: 2009
MLB Debut: 7/30/11 with Houston Astros - Currently on the 15 day DL
#13 OF Brandon Barnes
Greeneville Astros: 2005-06
MLB Debut: 8/7/12 with Houston Astros- Current
#14 RHP Jose Cisnero
Greeneville Astros 2009
MLB Debut: 4/22/13
Currently in AAA- Oklahoma City
#15 RHP Jorge De Leon
Greeneville Astros 2008 (as a SS)
MLB Debut 8/9/13
Currently in AAA - Oklahoma City
#16 RHP David Martinez
Greeneville Astro 2009
MLB Debut 8/21/13
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Jorge De Leon Becomes 15th Former G-Stro in the Big Leagues
Earlier this month, Jorge De Leon, who played shortstop in Greeneville, got the call up to the big leagues as a pitcher. He became the 15th former G-Stro to make it to the show.
Here is the list of former Greeneville Astros who have made it to the big leagues
#1 RHP J.C. Gutierrez
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 8/19/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently with Angels
#2 LHP Troy Patton
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 8/25/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently with Baltimore Orioles
#3 RHP Felipe Paulino
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 9/5/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently on KC Royals DL
#4 C J.R. Towles
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 9/5/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently in AAA in Dodgers system.
#5 RHP Jimmy Barthmaier
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 6/27/2008 with Pittsburgh Pirates
Out of Baseball
#6 RHP Sammy Gervacio
Greeneville Astros: 2005
MLB Debut: 8/14/2009 with Houston Astros
Out of Baseball
#7 LHP Victor Garate
Greeneville Astros: 2005
MLB Debut: 9/5/2009 with Washington Nationals
Currently in Mexican League (AAA - Unaffiliated)
#8 LHP Fernando Abad
Greeneville Astros: 2007
MLB Debut: 7/28/2010 with Houston Astros
Currently with Washington Nationals
#9 RHP Henry Villar
Greeneville Astros: 2008
MLB Debut: 9/10/2010 with Houston Astros
Out of Baseball
#10 RHP Jordan Lyles
Greeneville Astros: 2008
MLB Debut: 5/31/11 with Houston Astros
Currently with Houston Astros
#11 2B Jose Altuve
Greeneville Astros: 2008-09
MLB Debut: 7/20/11 with Houston Astros -Current
#12 LF J.D. Martinez
Greeneville Astros: 2009
MLB Debut: 7/30/11 with Houston Astros - Current
#13 OF Brandon Barnes
Greeneville Astros: 2005-06
MLB Debut: 8/7/12 with Houston Astros- Current
#14 RHP Jose Cisnero
Greeneville Astros 2009
MLB Debut: 4/22/13
Currently in AAA- Oklahoma City
#15 RHP Jorge De Leon
Greeneville Astros 2008 (as a SS)
MLB Debut 8/9/13
Currently in AAA - Oklahoma City
Here is the list of former Greeneville Astros who have made it to the big leagues
#1 RHP J.C. Gutierrez
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 8/19/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently with Angels
#2 LHP Troy Patton
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 8/25/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently with Baltimore Orioles
#3 RHP Felipe Paulino
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 9/5/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently on KC Royals DL
#4 C J.R. Towles
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 9/5/2007 with Houston Astros
Currently in AAA in Dodgers system.
#5 RHP Jimmy Barthmaier
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 6/27/2008 with Pittsburgh Pirates
Out of Baseball
#6 RHP Sammy Gervacio
Greeneville Astros: 2005
MLB Debut: 8/14/2009 with Houston Astros
Out of Baseball
#7 LHP Victor Garate
Greeneville Astros: 2005
MLB Debut: 9/5/2009 with Washington Nationals
Currently in Mexican League (AAA - Unaffiliated)
#8 LHP Fernando Abad
Greeneville Astros: 2007
MLB Debut: 7/28/2010 with Houston Astros
Currently with Washington Nationals
#9 RHP Henry Villar
Greeneville Astros: 2008
MLB Debut: 9/10/2010 with Houston Astros
Out of Baseball
#10 RHP Jordan Lyles
Greeneville Astros: 2008
MLB Debut: 5/31/11 with Houston Astros
Currently with Houston Astros
#11 2B Jose Altuve
Greeneville Astros: 2008-09
MLB Debut: 7/20/11 with Houston Astros -Current
#12 LF J.D. Martinez
Greeneville Astros: 2009
MLB Debut: 7/30/11 with Houston Astros - Current
#13 OF Brandon Barnes
Greeneville Astros: 2005-06
MLB Debut: 8/7/12 with Houston Astros- Current
#14 RHP Jose Cisnero
Greeneville Astros 2009
MLB Debut: 4/22/13
Currently in AAA- Oklahoma City
#15 RHP Jorge De Leon
Greeneville Astros 2008 (as a SS)
MLB Debut 8/9/13
Currently in AAA - Oklahoma City
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Eyewitness Report: 8/4/13 G-Stros 17, K-Mets 1
It only counts as one win in the standings but it was a solid statement. Greeneville stretched its two game lead to three with an all around dominate performance. Here are the highlights:
The night got off to a good night when Little Appy and I got our Jose Altuve give away t-shirts when we walked in the gate.
On The Mound
When a team scores 17 runs in a game, it can be tempting to overlook the pitching but that would be a mistake. Jordan Mills started the game for the G-Stros and pitched five solid innings facing just one batter over the minimum. His line read: 5 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 7 K.
Unofficially, I had him at 58 pitches with 43 of them for strikes! Of the seven strikeouts, five were swinging and two were looking. The two hits were both doubles. One was a ball that bounded over third baseman Tyler White down the left field line. The other was another ball down the left field line.
Austin Chrismon relieved Mills and pitched the next three innings. The first pitch he delivered was deposited over the wall for a solo HR. After that, he settled down allowing just one more hit. He struck out three and walked one. He threw several very nice curves on the night.
Tyler Brunnemann finished off the game with a rather eventful ninth. After striking out the first batter, he walked the next batter on four pitches. He the gave up a double down the right field line that luckily went under the gate for a ground rule double. Otherwise it is a run scoring triple. He walked the next batter on a full count pitch to load the bases before getting a visit from the pitching coach. The very next pitch went for a 4-6-3 double play to wrap up the game.
At The Plate
15 hits. 6 BB. 1 HBP and 1 reached on a drop third strike. That is 23 base runners on the night and 17 scored. The team was 7-10 with runners in scoring position. Every Astro who played scored a run. Even Angle Ibanez who struck out in his only at bat. He reached when the third strike got by the catcher and he reached first safely. It was just one of those nights.
Marc Wik went 4 for 5 with three singles and a bases clearing stand up triple to the gap in right center. Wik scored three runs on the night to lead the team.
Tyler White was 2 for 4 with a two run homer before leaving the game in the seventh.
Chase McDonald went 3 for 4 - all singles - plus a walk. The one time he got out required a nice play by the shortstop. McDonald hit the ball toward left field. The SS dove to his right and threw from his knees to nab McDonald or he perfect night.
Juan Santana only had one hit but it was a big hit. A three run HR to left field. He also had a sac fly to plate the final run of the game.
Ariel Ovando went 2 for 4 on the night and led the team with five RBI. He had three run HR to RF that got out in a hurry. He latter had a hustle double on a ball hit in shallow center. He rounded first and realized that both the shortstop and the second baseman had gone out to try to catch the ball and 2nd was unattended. He cruised in for a stand up double on a ball that was just out of the reach of the second baseman. He later walked in the game with the bases loaded for his final RBI of the night.
Brian Holberton was 2 for 4 with both of his hits coming in the seven run third inning. He lead off the inning with a single to left and then added a double down the right field line later in the inning. He added a walk in the ninth.
The game was out of hand in the ninth but the K-Mets couldn't get the Astros out so they resorted to bringing in their closer who got a double play ball with the bases loaded to put an end to the massacre.
In The Field
Tyler White made several nice plays at third. He made a leaping grab of a line drive and a nice play ranging to his left in the third. He added another good play to his left in the fourth. He also applied a tag to catch a runner attempting stealing third in the first. The runner was out by two feet thanks to a great throw by Brian Holberton.
The other play I have circled in my score book as a 3-6-1 double play to end the seventh. First baseman McDonald fielded the ball moving to his right. He made the throw to the SS Thomas Lindauer who threw back to pitcher Austin Chrismon covering first. Just like you work on in in PFPs.
The one error of the night was charged to Lindauer on a ball that was hit up the middle. He got to the ball in time but couldn't field it cleanly to make the throw. It would have been a very nice play had he pulled it off. He made a similar play later in the game.
The night got off to a good night when Little Appy and I got our Jose Altuve give away t-shirts when we walked in the gate.
On The Mound
When a team scores 17 runs in a game, it can be tempting to overlook the pitching but that would be a mistake. Jordan Mills started the game for the G-Stros and pitched five solid innings facing just one batter over the minimum. His line read: 5 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 7 K.
Unofficially, I had him at 58 pitches with 43 of them for strikes! Of the seven strikeouts, five were swinging and two were looking. The two hits were both doubles. One was a ball that bounded over third baseman Tyler White down the left field line. The other was another ball down the left field line.
Austin Chrismon relieved Mills and pitched the next three innings. The first pitch he delivered was deposited over the wall for a solo HR. After that, he settled down allowing just one more hit. He struck out three and walked one. He threw several very nice curves on the night.
Tyler Brunnemann finished off the game with a rather eventful ninth. After striking out the first batter, he walked the next batter on four pitches. He the gave up a double down the right field line that luckily went under the gate for a ground rule double. Otherwise it is a run scoring triple. He walked the next batter on a full count pitch to load the bases before getting a visit from the pitching coach. The very next pitch went for a 4-6-3 double play to wrap up the game.
At The Plate
15 hits. 6 BB. 1 HBP and 1 reached on a drop third strike. That is 23 base runners on the night and 17 scored. The team was 7-10 with runners in scoring position. Every Astro who played scored a run. Even Angle Ibanez who struck out in his only at bat. He reached when the third strike got by the catcher and he reached first safely. It was just one of those nights.
Marc Wik went 4 for 5 with three singles and a bases clearing stand up triple to the gap in right center. Wik scored three runs on the night to lead the team.
Tyler White was 2 for 4 with a two run homer before leaving the game in the seventh.
Chase McDonald went 3 for 4 - all singles - plus a walk. The one time he got out required a nice play by the shortstop. McDonald hit the ball toward left field. The SS dove to his right and threw from his knees to nab McDonald or he perfect night.
Juan Santana only had one hit but it was a big hit. A three run HR to left field. He also had a sac fly to plate the final run of the game.
Ariel Ovando went 2 for 4 on the night and led the team with five RBI. He had three run HR to RF that got out in a hurry. He latter had a hustle double on a ball hit in shallow center. He rounded first and realized that both the shortstop and the second baseman had gone out to try to catch the ball and 2nd was unattended. He cruised in for a stand up double on a ball that was just out of the reach of the second baseman. He later walked in the game with the bases loaded for his final RBI of the night.
Brian Holberton was 2 for 4 with both of his hits coming in the seven run third inning. He lead off the inning with a single to left and then added a double down the right field line later in the inning. He added a walk in the ninth.
The game was out of hand in the ninth but the K-Mets couldn't get the Astros out so they resorted to bringing in their closer who got a double play ball with the bases loaded to put an end to the massacre.
In The Field
Tyler White made several nice plays at third. He made a leaping grab of a line drive and a nice play ranging to his left in the third. He added another good play to his left in the fourth. He also applied a tag to catch a runner attempting stealing third in the first. The runner was out by two feet thanks to a great throw by Brian Holberton.
The other play I have circled in my score book as a 3-6-1 double play to end the seventh. First baseman McDonald fielded the ball moving to his right. He made the throw to the SS Thomas Lindauer who threw back to pitcher Austin Chrismon covering first. Just like you work on in in PFPs.
The one error of the night was charged to Lindauer on a ball that was hit up the middle. He got to the ball in time but couldn't field it cleanly to make the throw. It would have been a very nice play had he pulled it off. He made a similar play later in the game.
Friday, August 2, 2013
Appy Astros Alumni Of The Month - July 2013
The short season is in full swing and both Greeneville and Tri Cities lead their divisions. The rest of the farm isn't doing to shabbily either with both Corpus Christi and Lancaster leading their divisions in the second half of the season.
Here is your monthly look at how former Greeneville Astros are doing in the Major Leagues, the Astros' farm system and in other minor league affiliates.
Tri-City ValleyCats (short season A ball)
Hitter
Chan Moon was bumped back down to short season ball after spending most of last season in Low A and even getting a taste of High A. The fact that he is in Tri Cities shows you the depth at SS in the organization. In July, he hit .299/.365/.358 with seven stolen bases.
Pitcher
Michael Feliz has been dominate in the NY/Penn League. In 20 1/3 innings in July, he fanned 23 batters and offered free passes to just three. His season ERA is 1.49 with 42 strikeouts in 36 1/3 innings pitched.
Quad Cities River Bandits (Low A)
Hitter
Carlos Correa hit .295/.378/.474 for the month of July. He added two HR and eight doubles. His season average of .314 shows he is ready for the next challenge.
Honorable mention to Rio Ruiz. He hit .279 for July with 10 extra base hits (six doubles, one triple and three HR). He has rebounded from a rough start to raise his season average to .251.
Pitcher
Vincent Velasquez made four starts in July and finished with an impressive 2.35 ERA. He fanned 21 batters in 23 innings pitched while maintaining a WHIP of 0.783.
Sharing the honor this month is Jordan Jankowski who made two starts and four relief appearances for a combined 19 1/3 innings pitched. During July, his ERA was 1.86 and he allowed just 13 hits and one walk for a 0.656 WHIP.
Lancaster JetHawks
Hitter
Delino DeShields was hot for July hitting .349/..407/.500 with 19 stolen bases. He took 10 walks and only struck out 16 times in 106 at bats.
Pitcher
Mike Hauschild has only spent a part of the month in Lancaster be he has been solid in his first three outings. In 14 innings pitched (two starts and one relief appearance) he struck out 12 batters and only issued two walks. His Lancaster ERA was 3.86.
Corpus Christi Hooks
Hitter
Rene Garcia gets the nod before he heads off to AAA. For July, he hit .327/.358/.423. During his time in Corpus Christi he has thrown out 51% of would be base stealers.
Jonathan Meyer gets honorable mention for his solid month. He hit .315/.411/.446. After hitting .165 in April, his season average is up to .274.
Pitcher
Who else but David Martinez. In 5 starts for July (36 1/3 IP) he had a 1.98 ERA with two complete games.
Ruben Alaniz gets honorable mention for his solid month. In four starts, he posted a 2.59 ERA in 24 1/3 innings.
Oklahoma City RedHawks
Hitter
Ruben Sosa earns this spot despite being the only position player on the roster who played in Greeneville. He appeared in 19 games in July and hit an impressive .368 with three triples.
Pitcher
Jorge De Leon gets the nod by virtue of three strong relief appearances after his call up from Corpus Christi. He has not allowed a run in the four innings he has thrown so far.
Outside The Astros Org.
Hitter
Albert Cartwright had a very solid month for Reading (Phillies AA). He hit .306/.328 /.417 bringing his season average up to .268.
Pitcher
Victor Garate made five starts for Saltillo of the Mexican League (AAA). His ERA for July was 1.74. He fanned 33 batters in his 31 innings of work.
MLB
Hitter
J.D. Martinez gets the honor by hitting .288 in 17 games this month. Honorable mention goes to Brandon Barnes for hitting for the cycle this month.
Pitcher
Fernando Abad continues his solid work this season. In July, he amassed a 1.86 ERA in 10 games (9 2/3 IP) out of the Nationals bullpen. Home runs have always been Abad's Achilles heel, but this year, through 24 1/3 innings, he has not surrendered a long ball.
Here is your monthly look at how former Greeneville Astros are doing in the Major Leagues, the Astros' farm system and in other minor league affiliates.
Tri-City ValleyCats (short season A ball)
Hitter
Chan Moon was bumped back down to short season ball after spending most of last season in Low A and even getting a taste of High A. The fact that he is in Tri Cities shows you the depth at SS in the organization. In July, he hit .299/.365/.358 with seven stolen bases.
Pitcher
Michael Feliz has been dominate in the NY/Penn League. In 20 1/3 innings in July, he fanned 23 batters and offered free passes to just three. His season ERA is 1.49 with 42 strikeouts in 36 1/3 innings pitched.
Quad Cities River Bandits (Low A)
Hitter
Carlos Correa hit .295/.378/.474 for the month of July. He added two HR and eight doubles. His season average of .314 shows he is ready for the next challenge.
Honorable mention to Rio Ruiz. He hit .279 for July with 10 extra base hits (six doubles, one triple and three HR). He has rebounded from a rough start to raise his season average to .251.
Pitcher
Vincent Velasquez made four starts in July and finished with an impressive 2.35 ERA. He fanned 21 batters in 23 innings pitched while maintaining a WHIP of 0.783.
Sharing the honor this month is Jordan Jankowski who made two starts and four relief appearances for a combined 19 1/3 innings pitched. During July, his ERA was 1.86 and he allowed just 13 hits and one walk for a 0.656 WHIP.
Lancaster JetHawks
Hitter
Delino DeShields was hot for July hitting .349/..407/.500 with 19 stolen bases. He took 10 walks and only struck out 16 times in 106 at bats.
Pitcher
Mike Hauschild has only spent a part of the month in Lancaster be he has been solid in his first three outings. In 14 innings pitched (two starts and one relief appearance) he struck out 12 batters and only issued two walks. His Lancaster ERA was 3.86.
Corpus Christi Hooks
Hitter
Rene Garcia gets the nod before he heads off to AAA. For July, he hit .327/.358/.423. During his time in Corpus Christi he has thrown out 51% of would be base stealers.
Jonathan Meyer gets honorable mention for his solid month. He hit .315/.411/.446. After hitting .165 in April, his season average is up to .274.
Pitcher
Who else but David Martinez. In 5 starts for July (36 1/3 IP) he had a 1.98 ERA with two complete games.
Ruben Alaniz gets honorable mention for his solid month. In four starts, he posted a 2.59 ERA in 24 1/3 innings.
Oklahoma City RedHawks
Hitter
Ruben Sosa earns this spot despite being the only position player on the roster who played in Greeneville. He appeared in 19 games in July and hit an impressive .368 with three triples.
Pitcher
Jorge De Leon gets the nod by virtue of three strong relief appearances after his call up from Corpus Christi. He has not allowed a run in the four innings he has thrown so far.
Outside The Astros Org.
Hitter
Albert Cartwright had a very solid month for Reading (Phillies AA). He hit .306/.328 /.417 bringing his season average up to .268.
Pitcher
Victor Garate made five starts for Saltillo of the Mexican League (AAA). His ERA for July was 1.74. He fanned 33 batters in his 31 innings of work.
MLB
Hitter
J.D. Martinez gets the honor by hitting .288 in 17 games this month. Honorable mention goes to Brandon Barnes for hitting for the cycle this month.
Pitcher
Fernando Abad continues his solid work this season. In July, he amassed a 1.86 ERA in 10 games (9 2/3 IP) out of the Nationals bullpen. Home runs have always been Abad's Achilles heel, but this year, through 24 1/3 innings, he has not surrendered a long ball.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Eyewitness Report: 7/28/13 Greeneville 10 - Pulaski 1 - How A Pitchers Duel Turned Into A Blow Out
When you get to the game and the starters ERAs are 1.83 and 1.59 respectively, you settle in for a pitchers duel. That is how the game played out for the first five innings. But then Greeneville's bats exploded for 10 runs in their last three at bats to turn a 1-0 deficit into a 10-1 victory. Here are more observations from the game.
On The Mound
Jandel Gustave only allowed one hit in six innings but he walked six batters. The walks came in pairs, with two each in the first, third and fifth innings. He wasn't wild, just missing by little bits. I had his pitch count at 75 with only 35 for strikes. Despite his control issues, he still fanned four batter and only allowed one of his walks to score. He left after five innings down 1-0.
Chris Munnelly made his Greeneville debut pitching two innings of no hit, shut out ball. He struck out two hitters and walked one. The only other runner reached on an error when the ball was knocked out of a glove on a tag play at first. Munnelly's curve ball appeared to be his best pitch tonight.
Krishawn Holley closed out the game with an effective inning, allowing just one hit.
It was quite an outing from the pitching staff.
At The Plate
The Astros bats were kept in check for the first five innings. Pulaski starter, Eddie Campbell, used effective location of multiple pitches.
In the first five innings, the Astros batters were 3 for 15 with one walk and five strike outs.
In the final three at bats, the G-Stros batters were 11 for 18 with three walks, four strike outs and 10 runs scored - all earned.
Chase McDonald reached base in each of his four plate appearances. He had a single, a double, two walks, two RBI and two runs scored.
Brian Holberton hit his first HR at Pioneer Park; a two run blast in the sixth that gave Greeneville the lead 2-1. He also singled and scored in the 8th.
Brett Phillips laid down one of the sweetest bunt hits I have seen for one of his two singles on the night. Phillips pushed a bunt past the pitchers out stretched glove and no play at first was made. He later scored two runs after reaching via a walk and single.
Three other G-Stros had two hits. Tanner Mathis and Thomas Lindauer both produced a single and a double and Juan Santana had two singles.
Only Edwin Gomez didn't join the hit parade for Greeneville. He went 0 for 4 with 4 Ks. The part of that that concerned me was that he only saw 13 pitches on the night. The first pitch he saw of the night was a ball, after that it was twelve straight strikes and four straight Ks. Obviously something is wrong there.
In The Field
Mathis gets the Oscar for selling a sliding short hop grab as a catch in the second inning. From my vantage point, it appeared the ball bounced into his glove. The Pulaski manager and bench agreed with me. But Mathis raised his glove high and the home plate ump signaled out.
Lindauer started a nice 6-4-3 double play in the fifth inning. The ball was hit to his right. He ranged over, grabbed the ball and threw across his body to start the double play. Juan Santana made a nice quick turn to complete the twin killing.
The other nice play was made by McDonald at first on a high pop fly in foul territory. He adjusted to the ball at the last minute making a lunge to his right to secure the ball to end the sixth inning.
The only error of the game was charged to McDonald. He was playing in anticipating a bunt from the speedy Aaron Barbosa. Barbosa didn't bunt. He chopped a ball down the first baseline that McDonald had to retreat to retrieve. When he did, Munnelly had not made it in time to cover first. McDonald made an attempt to tag Barbosa before he reached the bag safely but the ball was knocked out of McDonalds glove during the attempt. Heck of an effort but charged with the error none the less.
Overall
Nice team win for the G-Stros. The pitching was very good, the offense produced late in the game and the defense was solid. They end the series against a very good Pulaski team two games in front of the streaking Kingsport Mets. They start a three game series against the Burlington Royals (17-19) tomorrow.
On The Mound
Jandel Gustave only allowed one hit in six innings but he walked six batters. The walks came in pairs, with two each in the first, third and fifth innings. He wasn't wild, just missing by little bits. I had his pitch count at 75 with only 35 for strikes. Despite his control issues, he still fanned four batter and only allowed one of his walks to score. He left after five innings down 1-0.
Chris Munnelly made his Greeneville debut pitching two innings of no hit, shut out ball. He struck out two hitters and walked one. The only other runner reached on an error when the ball was knocked out of a glove on a tag play at first. Munnelly's curve ball appeared to be his best pitch tonight.
Krishawn Holley closed out the game with an effective inning, allowing just one hit.
It was quite an outing from the pitching staff.
At The Plate
The Astros bats were kept in check for the first five innings. Pulaski starter, Eddie Campbell, used effective location of multiple pitches.
In the first five innings, the Astros batters were 3 for 15 with one walk and five strike outs.
In the final three at bats, the G-Stros batters were 11 for 18 with three walks, four strike outs and 10 runs scored - all earned.
Chase McDonald reached base in each of his four plate appearances. He had a single, a double, two walks, two RBI and two runs scored.
Brian Holberton hit his first HR at Pioneer Park; a two run blast in the sixth that gave Greeneville the lead 2-1. He also singled and scored in the 8th.
Brett Phillips laid down one of the sweetest bunt hits I have seen for one of his two singles on the night. Phillips pushed a bunt past the pitchers out stretched glove and no play at first was made. He later scored two runs after reaching via a walk and single.
Three other G-Stros had two hits. Tanner Mathis and Thomas Lindauer both produced a single and a double and Juan Santana had two singles.
Only Edwin Gomez didn't join the hit parade for Greeneville. He went 0 for 4 with 4 Ks. The part of that that concerned me was that he only saw 13 pitches on the night. The first pitch he saw of the night was a ball, after that it was twelve straight strikes and four straight Ks. Obviously something is wrong there.
In The Field
Mathis gets the Oscar for selling a sliding short hop grab as a catch in the second inning. From my vantage point, it appeared the ball bounced into his glove. The Pulaski manager and bench agreed with me. But Mathis raised his glove high and the home plate ump signaled out.
Lindauer started a nice 6-4-3 double play in the fifth inning. The ball was hit to his right. He ranged over, grabbed the ball and threw across his body to start the double play. Juan Santana made a nice quick turn to complete the twin killing.
The other nice play was made by McDonald at first on a high pop fly in foul territory. He adjusted to the ball at the last minute making a lunge to his right to secure the ball to end the sixth inning.
The only error of the game was charged to McDonald. He was playing in anticipating a bunt from the speedy Aaron Barbosa. Barbosa didn't bunt. He chopped a ball down the first baseline that McDonald had to retreat to retrieve. When he did, Munnelly had not made it in time to cover first. McDonald made an attempt to tag Barbosa before he reached the bag safely but the ball was knocked out of McDonalds glove during the attempt. Heck of an effort but charged with the error none the less.
Overall
Nice team win for the G-Stros. The pitching was very good, the offense produced late in the game and the defense was solid. They end the series against a very good Pulaski team two games in front of the streaking Kingsport Mets. They start a three game series against the Burlington Royals (17-19) tomorrow.
Eyewitness Report - 7/27/13 - Pulaski Pulls Out Two Wins From G-Stros
In what could be a potential play off preview, the Pulaski Mariners pulled out two late comebacks to defeat the Greeneville Astros twice Saturday night. The first game was the conclusion of Friday's suspended game. The Mariners scored four runs in the in the seventh to take a 5-4 decision. Then in the seven inning night cap, they got a two run homer in the sixth to secure a 2-1 win. Here is a closer look at what I observed last night.
Game 1 - Pulaski 5, Greeneville 4
The game picked up with Greeneville up 2-1 in the bottom of the 2nd.
On the Mound
Christian Garcia threw three very effective innings. His fast ball sat in the upper 80's but he mixed speeds well and keep batters guessing. He fanned five in the three innings and retired the first 8 batters he faced. He had a walk and a hit batter but no base hits.
Sidewinder Ryan Connolly came in next and was effective in the 6th before the wheels came off in the 7th. He struck out a batter to start the 7th but then a short hop couldn't be handled by Tyler White at third for an E-5. The next three batters followed with a triple, a single and a triple. An inning that started as a 4-1 lead ended with a 5-4 deficit.
Tyler Brunnemann finished off the game. I was pleased to see that some improvement in his mechanics. When I saw him earlier in the year, he would touch the ground with his glove on his follow through. Now he tucks the glove to his chest as he follows through. He is not repeating the tuck perfectly as it was sometimes at his chest and sometimes at his hip but it shows improvement. He only had one strike out but induced three ground balls and two pop outs to short. He gave up one hit, a double.
At the Plate
Brett Phillips started the third off with a hard ground ball inside the bag at third for a double. It is fun to watch him run. He is fast! He also reached on a walk.
Edwin Gomez reached base three times with a walk and two singles. However he was .500 in getting out of base running goofs. In the third, with the bases loaded, Tyler White hit a fly ball to shallow right field. Phillips was tagging on the play but did not try to advance. However, Gomez took off from second and was almost to third when the throw reached the catcher. The catcher threw to second to try to get Gomez coming back to the bag but the ball ended up in center and both Phillips and Gomez scored.
He wasn't as fortunate in the seventh. He scorched a ball that appeared to be leaving the yard but bounced off the top of the fence. He was nabbed at second with a great throw from the left fielder. Some people sitting around me said Gomez had started his home run trot, I don't know if this is accurate because I was trying to follow the trajectory of the ball. If he was, I am sure the coaching staff will let him hear about it. If not, it was a great play by the Mariners.
Those three were the only players with hits for the continuation portion of the game. Ariel Ovando and Darwin Rivera both took walks but no one else reached base.
In The Field
Other than the error by White on a tough play coming in on a short hop, the defense looked pretty good. Darwin Rivera was at 2nd and looked pretty comfortable there. More so than he has looked at third.
Game 2: Pulaski 2 - Greeneville 1:
This game was a seven inning game due to the completion of the suspended game.
On The Mound
Chris Lee was impressive last night. Lee's fastball was sitting in the 93-95 range (thanks to the scout two rows in front for holding his radar gun in a position so I could peek) and his slider was getting a great many swings and misses. His delivery was smooth and effortless. I had him at 78 pitches when he was pulled with one out in the sixth with 53 being for strikes (68%). I also had him with first pitch strikes to 17 of the 24 batters he faced (71%).
He led off the second striking out the Pulaski clean up hitter on three pitches. The final pitch resulted in the Pulaski hitter winding up on the seat of his pants after an unsuccessful attempt to check his swing. He ended up striking out five batters on the night. All of them swinging.
He was helped by the ground rules in the fourth. After striking out the first two batters, the next batter reached on a hit to short stop. Thomas Lindauer made a nice backhanded play on a sharply hit ball but couldn't recover for the throw. The next batter hit a ball into the right field corner that went under the gate for a ground rule double. If not for the gate being there, it would have been an RBI triple - Pulaski's third of the evening.
In the sixth, Lee had a different kind of luck. After hitting the first batter, he induced a ground ball to second. Marc Wik had to come in to field the ball and made a swipe at the runner going by before throwing to first. The umpire ruled Wik didn't tag the runner going to second. Both Wik and Lindauer were adamant the tag had been made. From my angle, it appeared the umpire made the safe sign before Wik even attempted the tag.
Lee had the next batter in a 1-2 count and left a pitch up in the zone that was sent over the left field wall. After giving up a bunt hit to the next batter, his night was done. He deserved a better fate than taking the loss.
Gonzalo Sanudo came into finish off game getting five straight outs. Four of them were air outs and three went to the outfield.
At The Plate
When you get three hits as a team, there is not too much to write about here.
Thomas Lindauer had the big hit of the night, a RBI double to left that scored Wallace Gonzalez from first.
Marc Wik singled in the first after fouling off five pitches. He was in an 0-2 whole and ended up seeing a total of eight pitches that at bat before reaching on a bouncer up the middle. He was robbed of another single by a nice play by the second baseman to lead off the sixth.
Tyler White had a solid single to left to lead off the fourth but was erased on a 6-4-3 double play to end the inning.
Angel Ibanez hit a ball hard up the middle that the short stop made a nice play on to prevent him from having a hit on the night.
A bit of good news - the Mariners are second in the league in most strike outs by their pitchers. They came into the games just two K's behind the G-Stros pitchers. In the 16 innings played in the series so far, G-Stro batters have just five strike outs. Meanwhile the G-Stro pitchers added 15 to their total.
In The Field
Lindauer also made the play of the game in the field as well. He climbed the ladder and nabbed a line drive to end the fifth inning.
Ibanez made a nice play at third in the sixth. With a runner on third, he fielded a ground ball on a short hop and made a nice throw to catcher Ricky Gingras to get the runner who had been going on contact.
Tyler White made a nice play at first on a hard hit ball in the second inning.
Overall
After being 10-1 in one run games, they lost two last night. Just not enough offense to get the job done.
Game 1 - Pulaski 5, Greeneville 4
The game picked up with Greeneville up 2-1 in the bottom of the 2nd.
On the Mound
Christian Garcia threw three very effective innings. His fast ball sat in the upper 80's but he mixed speeds well and keep batters guessing. He fanned five in the three innings and retired the first 8 batters he faced. He had a walk and a hit batter but no base hits.
Sidewinder Ryan Connolly came in next and was effective in the 6th before the wheels came off in the 7th. He struck out a batter to start the 7th but then a short hop couldn't be handled by Tyler White at third for an E-5. The next three batters followed with a triple, a single and a triple. An inning that started as a 4-1 lead ended with a 5-4 deficit.
Tyler Brunnemann finished off the game. I was pleased to see that some improvement in his mechanics. When I saw him earlier in the year, he would touch the ground with his glove on his follow through. Now he tucks the glove to his chest as he follows through. He is not repeating the tuck perfectly as it was sometimes at his chest and sometimes at his hip but it shows improvement. He only had one strike out but induced three ground balls and two pop outs to short. He gave up one hit, a double.
At the Plate
Brett Phillips started the third off with a hard ground ball inside the bag at third for a double. It is fun to watch him run. He is fast! He also reached on a walk.
Edwin Gomez reached base three times with a walk and two singles. However he was .500 in getting out of base running goofs. In the third, with the bases loaded, Tyler White hit a fly ball to shallow right field. Phillips was tagging on the play but did not try to advance. However, Gomez took off from second and was almost to third when the throw reached the catcher. The catcher threw to second to try to get Gomez coming back to the bag but the ball ended up in center and both Phillips and Gomez scored.
He wasn't as fortunate in the seventh. He scorched a ball that appeared to be leaving the yard but bounced off the top of the fence. He was nabbed at second with a great throw from the left fielder. Some people sitting around me said Gomez had started his home run trot, I don't know if this is accurate because I was trying to follow the trajectory of the ball. If he was, I am sure the coaching staff will let him hear about it. If not, it was a great play by the Mariners.
Those three were the only players with hits for the continuation portion of the game. Ariel Ovando and Darwin Rivera both took walks but no one else reached base.
In The Field
Other than the error by White on a tough play coming in on a short hop, the defense looked pretty good. Darwin Rivera was at 2nd and looked pretty comfortable there. More so than he has looked at third.
Game 2: Pulaski 2 - Greeneville 1:
This game was a seven inning game due to the completion of the suspended game.
On The Mound
Chris Lee was impressive last night. Lee's fastball was sitting in the 93-95 range (thanks to the scout two rows in front for holding his radar gun in a position so I could peek) and his slider was getting a great many swings and misses. His delivery was smooth and effortless. I had him at 78 pitches when he was pulled with one out in the sixth with 53 being for strikes (68%). I also had him with first pitch strikes to 17 of the 24 batters he faced (71%).
He led off the second striking out the Pulaski clean up hitter on three pitches. The final pitch resulted in the Pulaski hitter winding up on the seat of his pants after an unsuccessful attempt to check his swing. He ended up striking out five batters on the night. All of them swinging.
He was helped by the ground rules in the fourth. After striking out the first two batters, the next batter reached on a hit to short stop. Thomas Lindauer made a nice backhanded play on a sharply hit ball but couldn't recover for the throw. The next batter hit a ball into the right field corner that went under the gate for a ground rule double. If not for the gate being there, it would have been an RBI triple - Pulaski's third of the evening.
In the sixth, Lee had a different kind of luck. After hitting the first batter, he induced a ground ball to second. Marc Wik had to come in to field the ball and made a swipe at the runner going by before throwing to first. The umpire ruled Wik didn't tag the runner going to second. Both Wik and Lindauer were adamant the tag had been made. From my angle, it appeared the umpire made the safe sign before Wik even attempted the tag.
Lee had the next batter in a 1-2 count and left a pitch up in the zone that was sent over the left field wall. After giving up a bunt hit to the next batter, his night was done. He deserved a better fate than taking the loss.
Gonzalo Sanudo came into finish off game getting five straight outs. Four of them were air outs and three went to the outfield.
At The Plate
When you get three hits as a team, there is not too much to write about here.
Thomas Lindauer had the big hit of the night, a RBI double to left that scored Wallace Gonzalez from first.
Marc Wik singled in the first after fouling off five pitches. He was in an 0-2 whole and ended up seeing a total of eight pitches that at bat before reaching on a bouncer up the middle. He was robbed of another single by a nice play by the second baseman to lead off the sixth.
Tyler White had a solid single to left to lead off the fourth but was erased on a 6-4-3 double play to end the inning.
Angel Ibanez hit a ball hard up the middle that the short stop made a nice play on to prevent him from having a hit on the night.
A bit of good news - the Mariners are second in the league in most strike outs by their pitchers. They came into the games just two K's behind the G-Stros pitchers. In the 16 innings played in the series so far, G-Stro batters have just five strike outs. Meanwhile the G-Stro pitchers added 15 to their total.
In The Field
Lindauer also made the play of the game in the field as well. He climbed the ladder and nabbed a line drive to end the fifth inning.
Ibanez made a nice play at third in the sixth. With a runner on third, he fielded a ground ball on a short hop and made a nice throw to catcher Ricky Gingras to get the runner who had been going on contact.
Tyler White made a nice play at first on a hard hit ball in the second inning.
Overall
After being 10-1 in one run games, they lost two last night. Just not enough offense to get the job done.
Friday, July 26, 2013
G-Stros Pitching Leads Way
The 2013 Greeneville Astros got off to a 1-5 start. During that stretch, they allowed 40 runs. That is averaging giving up 6.67 runs per game. In the 27 games since then, the G-Stros are 22-5 and have only given up 67 runs. That is an average of 2.48 runs per game. That is a dramatic difference and points to the strength of this edition of the Greeneville Astros. Pitching. Let's look closer at the team pitching stats.
Leading The League As A Team
Team ERA is 2.51, which leads the league by a comfortable half a run margin.
They are tied for the most shutouts with four.
The bullpen has the most saves with 14 and the most holds with 13.
They are second in the league allowing just 233 hits and tied for the fewest walks with 89. But together, they lead the league with the lowest WHIP with 1.11.
They lead the league with 312 strikeouts.
They have allowed the second fewest HR with 9.
They have given up the second fewest runs with 107 but have given up the fewest earned runs with 81.
The only area they are not in first or second is in hit batters. They have hit 17 batters which is the fifth most.
Individual Leaders
Despite leading the league as a team in ERA by a large margin, only Frederick Tiburcio is listed in the league leaders for ERA. He is 2nd with a 1.09 ERA.
Only Chris Lee is in the top 10 for strike outs. He is tied for 5th with 32 Ks. Tiburcio is 11th with 30.
Gonzalo Sanudo and J.D. Osborne are tied for second in saves with six each. Osborne has already been promoted.
Tyler Brunnemann is in second with three holds, while Krishawn Holley and Austin Chrismon are tied for third with two each.
There is no G-Stro in the top 22 for hits allowed!
Team Effort
The domination of the pitching staff with the relatively light representation on the individual leader board shows that this is definitely a team effort.
Nine pitchers have more strike outs than innings pitched.
Fourteen pitchers have a WHIP under 1.20.
Ten pitchers have an ERA below 3.00.
Jordan Mills highlights this team effort. He has appeared in eight games with four of them being starts. He has a hold and a save as well. In 25 innings pitched, he has a 1.08 ERA, a 0.92 WHIP and 26 strikeouts. Whatever he has been asked to do for this team he has done it and done it well.
Definitely a fun pitching staff to watch.
Leading The League As A Team
Team ERA is 2.51, which leads the league by a comfortable half a run margin.
They are tied for the most shutouts with four.
The bullpen has the most saves with 14 and the most holds with 13.
They are second in the league allowing just 233 hits and tied for the fewest walks with 89. But together, they lead the league with the lowest WHIP with 1.11.
They lead the league with 312 strikeouts.
They have allowed the second fewest HR with 9.
They have given up the second fewest runs with 107 but have given up the fewest earned runs with 81.
The only area they are not in first or second is in hit batters. They have hit 17 batters which is the fifth most.
Individual Leaders
Despite leading the league as a team in ERA by a large margin, only Frederick Tiburcio is listed in the league leaders for ERA. He is 2nd with a 1.09 ERA.
Only Chris Lee is in the top 10 for strike outs. He is tied for 5th with 32 Ks. Tiburcio is 11th with 30.
Gonzalo Sanudo and J.D. Osborne are tied for second in saves with six each. Osborne has already been promoted.
Tyler Brunnemann is in second with three holds, while Krishawn Holley and Austin Chrismon are tied for third with two each.
There is no G-Stro in the top 22 for hits allowed!
Team Effort
The domination of the pitching staff with the relatively light representation on the individual leader board shows that this is definitely a team effort.
Nine pitchers have more strike outs than innings pitched.
Fourteen pitchers have a WHIP under 1.20.
Ten pitchers have an ERA below 3.00.
Jordan Mills highlights this team effort. He has appeared in eight games with four of them being starts. He has a hold and a save as well. In 25 innings pitched, he has a 1.08 ERA, a 0.92 WHIP and 26 strikeouts. Whatever he has been asked to do for this team he has done it and done it well.
Definitely a fun pitching staff to watch.
Monday, July 15, 2013
Former G-Stros In The Majors At The Break
The MLB All Star break is upon us. Now is a good time to do a look at the former Greeneville Astros who are in the majors and see how they are doing.
Let's start by looking at those who play for the Astros:
Jose Altuve (2008,09) - Altuve started off the year very hot but has struggled a little since missing time due to a collision with Jimmy Parades in right field and the death of his grandmother. His hitting totals for the pre-all star portion of the schedule are .280/.315/.352. The break may be just what he needs.
In the field, he has been solid. He leads all second basemen in the majors with 75 double plays turned. He only turned 83 in all of 2012. The team record for double plays turned by a second baseman is 117 set by Craig Biggio in 1999. Altuve is on pace for 58 more which would bring him to 133 for the season. In the last 20 years, only three second baseman have turned 130 or more double plays in a single season. They are: Robinson Cano (136 - 2007), Fernando Vina (135 -1998) and Ronnie Belliard (130 - 2000).
Altuve recently signed a contract extension with the Astros to keep him with the team through 2017 with a team option for 2018 & 1019 as well.
Brandon Barnes (2005,06) - Barnes played in 75 games before the all star break this season. Despite hitting just .232 on the season so far, Barnes is showing a consistent ability to hit left handed pitching. In 70 at bats against lefties, he is hitting .314.
Barnes' defense is turning into his calling card. There are currently 19 videos on MLB.com of Barnes highlighting his defense. In addition to the great diving catches, he also has five outfield assist.
His defense plus the ability to hit lefties my keep him in the majors for several years.
Jose Cisnero (2009) - Cisnero has been a pleasant surprise out of the bullpen for the Astros. He has become a dependable part of the back end of the bullpen. In 37 2/3 innings pitched he has struck out 37 batters while turning out a 2.87 ERA. When you consider that he allowed nine of his 12 earned runs in two outings, his numbers look even better. Fifteen of the 20 times he has been called on to pitch, he has returned to the dugout with no runs accounted to him.
Jordan Lyles (2008) - Lyles didn't start the year on the MLB roster. He was added in early May and has made 14 starts for the Astros thus far. The 23 year old is growing up on the job and showing progress this year. The highlight of the year for him was a run of six starts from May 22 to June 18 where he pitched 39 2/3 innings and allowed just seven runs. He goes into the break with a 4.02 ERA and 1.36 WHIP.
J.D. Martinez (2009) - Martinez was heading to AAA out of spring training but injuries put him on the opening day roster. He too has battled some injuries but appeared to be putting it together right as the all star break arrived. For the season, Martinez is hitting .256/.281/.394 in 72 games. For the month of July, he was hitting .300/.317/.350.
Now let's look across the rest of the teams to find out how former G-Stros are doing in 2013.
Fernando Abad (2007) - Abad was called up to Washington in late May after starting the season in AAA. Since his arrival, he has been a key part of the National's bullpen. He has appeared in 20 games (19 2/3 innings pitched. During that time, he has struck out 21 batters and allowed just 4 runs for a 1.83 ERA.
J.C. Gutierrez (2004) - Gutierrez was the last man to make the Royals bullpen out of spring training. He has had an up and down year thus far. He had a 6.14 ERA in April but bounced back with 1.08 and 2.00 ERAs in May & June respectively. July has been a little rough with a 5.97 ERA in his four appearances so far. He has not allowed any of the 11 runners he has inherited to score.
Troy Patton (2004) - Patton struggled with some command issues with his fastball in April and May but has righted the ship. Since he gave up two runs in 1 2/3 innings in Houston on 6/7/13, he has appeared in 14 games and has give up just one run in 10 innings pitched. During that span, he has allowed just 9 hits, has not walked a batter and has struck out 9. Patton and the Orioles are looking to make another playoff run this season. They are 4.5 games back of Boston for the division led and 1.5 games back of the final wild card spot behind Texas.
Let's start by looking at those who play for the Astros:
Jose Altuve (2008,09) - Altuve started off the year very hot but has struggled a little since missing time due to a collision with Jimmy Parades in right field and the death of his grandmother. His hitting totals for the pre-all star portion of the schedule are .280/.315/.352. The break may be just what he needs.
In the field, he has been solid. He leads all second basemen in the majors with 75 double plays turned. He only turned 83 in all of 2012. The team record for double plays turned by a second baseman is 117 set by Craig Biggio in 1999. Altuve is on pace for 58 more which would bring him to 133 for the season. In the last 20 years, only three second baseman have turned 130 or more double plays in a single season. They are: Robinson Cano (136 - 2007), Fernando Vina (135 -1998) and Ronnie Belliard (130 - 2000).
Altuve recently signed a contract extension with the Astros to keep him with the team through 2017 with a team option for 2018 & 1019 as well.
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| Brandon Barnes leads off second in a spring training game 2013 (Photo property of Appy Astros) |
Brandon Barnes (2005,06) - Barnes played in 75 games before the all star break this season. Despite hitting just .232 on the season so far, Barnes is showing a consistent ability to hit left handed pitching. In 70 at bats against lefties, he is hitting .314.
Barnes' defense is turning into his calling card. There are currently 19 videos on MLB.com of Barnes highlighting his defense. In addition to the great diving catches, he also has five outfield assist.
His defense plus the ability to hit lefties my keep him in the majors for several years.
Jose Cisnero (2009) - Cisnero has been a pleasant surprise out of the bullpen for the Astros. He has become a dependable part of the back end of the bullpen. In 37 2/3 innings pitched he has struck out 37 batters while turning out a 2.87 ERA. When you consider that he allowed nine of his 12 earned runs in two outings, his numbers look even better. Fifteen of the 20 times he has been called on to pitch, he has returned to the dugout with no runs accounted to him.
Jordan Lyles (2008) - Lyles didn't start the year on the MLB roster. He was added in early May and has made 14 starts for the Astros thus far. The 23 year old is growing up on the job and showing progress this year. The highlight of the year for him was a run of six starts from May 22 to June 18 where he pitched 39 2/3 innings and allowed just seven runs. He goes into the break with a 4.02 ERA and 1.36 WHIP.
J.D. Martinez (2009) - Martinez was heading to AAA out of spring training but injuries put him on the opening day roster. He too has battled some injuries but appeared to be putting it together right as the all star break arrived. For the season, Martinez is hitting .256/.281/.394 in 72 games. For the month of July, he was hitting .300/.317/.350.
Now let's look across the rest of the teams to find out how former G-Stros are doing in 2013.
Fernando Abad (2007) - Abad was called up to Washington in late May after starting the season in AAA. Since his arrival, he has been a key part of the National's bullpen. He has appeared in 20 games (19 2/3 innings pitched. During that time, he has struck out 21 batters and allowed just 4 runs for a 1.83 ERA.
J.C. Gutierrez (2004) - Gutierrez was the last man to make the Royals bullpen out of spring training. He has had an up and down year thus far. He had a 6.14 ERA in April but bounced back with 1.08 and 2.00 ERAs in May & June respectively. July has been a little rough with a 5.97 ERA in his four appearances so far. He has not allowed any of the 11 runners he has inherited to score.
Troy Patton (2004) - Patton struggled with some command issues with his fastball in April and May but has righted the ship. Since he gave up two runs in 1 2/3 innings in Houston on 6/7/13, he has appeared in 14 games and has give up just one run in 10 innings pitched. During that span, he has allowed just 9 hits, has not walked a batter and has struck out 9. Patton and the Orioles are looking to make another playoff run this season. They are 4.5 games back of Boston for the division led and 1.5 games back of the final wild card spot behind Texas.
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Altuve Signed to Contract Extention with Astros!
Exciting news out of Houston today. Former Greeneville Astro Jose Altuve has signed a long term contract extension according to Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. Details are not know yet but McTaggart states:
Altuve is a fan favorite among G-Stros and Astros fans. Here's hoping this is the continuation of a good relationship. While this news excites me in hopes that Altuve will remain with the Astros, the realist in me also is aware that a deal like this also makes Altuve more attractive to the trade market because he is now young and cost controlled for a period of time.
Altuve becomes the first former G-Stro to sign a long term deal with any team.
The Astros are likely buying out Altuve’s arbitration years by signing him to the deal. He was scheduled to be arbitration eligible next year and a free agent following the 2016 season.
Altuve is a fan favorite among G-Stros and Astros fans. Here's hoping this is the continuation of a good relationship. While this news excites me in hopes that Altuve will remain with the Astros, the realist in me also is aware that a deal like this also makes Altuve more attractive to the trade market because he is now young and cost controlled for a period of time.
Altuve becomes the first former G-Stro to sign a long term deal with any team.
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Beau Torbert's Number Retired by Sioux Falls Canaries
Beau Torbert, a member of the 2004 Greeneville Astros, was honored last night by the Sioux Falls Canaries of the independent league American Association. He was named as the inaugural member of their Hall of Fame and had his #7 retired.
Here is what folks are saying about Torbert and his honor:
Sioux Falls Argus Leader:
Beau's hometown paper
Sioux Falls local television station video on Torbert.
Torbert was drafted in the 17th round out of Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama. He spent 2004 with Greeneville and climbed the ladder in the Astros system up to AAA Round Rock before his release in 2007. He then played three years of independent ball in Sioux Falls. He was named Baseball America's Independent Player of the Year in 2010. He signed with the Braves as a minor league free agent but was released at the end of spring training.
After one season of being a hitting coach for the Lincoln Saltdogs, Torbert now resides in the Sioux Falls area and works for the Canaries front office as their Baseball Outreach Coordinator.
Congrats to Beau on the honor and best of luck in his future endeavors.
Here is what folks are saying about Torbert and his honor:
Sioux Falls Argus Leader:
He’s the best player I’ve seen in a Canaries/Pheasants uniform, and a good dude who clearly was genuinely moved by the honor. And the Canaries did a nice job of not overdoing it with the ceremony. It was well done.
Beau's hometown paper
Sioux Falls local television station video on Torbert.
Torbert was drafted in the 17th round out of Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama. He spent 2004 with Greeneville and climbed the ladder in the Astros system up to AAA Round Rock before his release in 2007. He then played three years of independent ball in Sioux Falls. He was named Baseball America's Independent Player of the Year in 2010. He signed with the Braves as a minor league free agent but was released at the end of spring training.
After one season of being a hitting coach for the Lincoln Saltdogs, Torbert now resides in the Sioux Falls area and works for the Canaries front office as their Baseball Outreach Coordinator.
Congrats to Beau on the honor and best of luck in his future endeavors.
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Eyewitness Report 7/5/13: Greeneville 1 Bristol 4
When I saw that Jandel Gustave was on the mound tonight, I made sure I could be at Pioneer Park. When I got there I saw the line up had three first time starters included. Brian Holberton and Chase McDonald were making their pro debuts and Brett Phillips was making his Greeneville debut. It was a good night to be at the ballpark. Here are my observations:
On The Mound:
Jandel Gustave got off to a rough start in the first. After a strike out looking, he walked the next two batters, the second coming in a 10 pitch at bat. After a fly out and a single, Gustave got the last out with a swinging strike out. He ended up throwing 31 pitches in the first frame and that limited his night to just four innings. Of those 31 pitches, 18 were for strikes (unofficial numbers from my personal score book). He followed that inning up with innings of 12, 12 and 17 pitches respectively. So he really settled down.
Gustave is a pitcher to be excited about. His delivery is very easy and to be hitting mid to upper 90's out of a 6'2 160 frame is impressive. The two hits that came off of him were hits taken the other way through the SS/3B hole. They were nice pieces of hitting. His fast ball has good zip. There were several late swings and several foul balls that were poked into the seats because batters weren't getting around on him. His slider showed nice movement and there were a couple of sliders that were down right nasty. He ended the night with 72 pitchers - 43 for strikes (60%). He threw first pitch strikes to 11 of the 17 batters he faced - again by my unofficial count.
The high point for me is that we know based on his previous stats, that he has had control issues. For him to walk two in the first inning and regain his composure to only walk one more shows positive development.
Austin Chrismon made his pro debut last night. After nicking the first batter on the sleeve, he then got the next three batters out. One out came on due to him fielding his position well. With a runner at second, he gloved a hot shot back at him. He made the runner at second dive back to the bag, removing any chance of him advancing and then threw out the batter at first.
Christian Garcia came in in the sixth and pitched around an error for an effective inning. In the seventh, he walked two batters with one out and then allowed a single that scored the first runner. That ended his night.
Gerardo Ramirez entered the game with runners on the corners and allowed both runners to score before getting the last out. He gave up a sac fly to the first batter and then surrendered a double to left that plated the final run of the game. He ended up finishing the night on the mound with a total of 2 2/3 innings pitched.
Overall, it was the walks that did the G-Stros pitching in. Three of the four runs allowed reached via base on balls. There is no defense against the walk.
At The Plate:
It was one of those nights where the Astros hit several balls hard, they just hit them right at people. I had atleast four line drives that were either right at fielders or required the fielder to make a nice play.
Brett Phillips is fast. He made two routine grounders close plays with his hustle down the line. His final at bat of the night was a seven pitch walk where he fouled off several close pitches.
David Mayfield (Jack) wasn't lucky last night. His first at bat, he hit a hard bouncer up the middle that the pitcher deflected to the second baseman for a 1-4-3 put out. He then hit a line drive in his fourth at bat that the SS made a nice ranging catch on. He finished the night for 5 but he had better at bats than that indicates.
Bobby Borchering reached base three times in four plate appearances. A single and two walks.
Chase McDonald went 1 for 4 in his pro debut. He got a single in his first at bat and then lined out to left and center respectively in his next two at bats before striking out in his final at bat. He is one big guy. He was wearing number 62 on his uniform and it was appropriate for him to be wearing a linebacker type number. He makes solid contact.
Marc Wik turned a rough night around. After striking out in his first two at bats, he walked in the seventh and lead off the ninth with a single to left.
Overall, Greeneville just couldn't get the big hit. They went 1 for 10 with runners in scoring position. Two of the line drive outs in mentioned earlier were to end an inning with a runner on base.
The pitcher who started for Bristol, Scott Carroll, was on rehab assignment from AAA. He missed all of last season so I assume his is working his way back from a surgery of some kind. The second pitcher was the White Sox second round draft pick this season, Tyler Danish. So they were facing some pretty good pitching but that is most nights in pro baseball.
In The Field
Brian Holberton looked pretty good behind the plate. He got a lot of work blocking balls in the dirt. He did allow one passed ball that was a low pitch that the scorer felt he should have blocked. He was apparently a little amped up for the game. He made several throws down to second during warm ups and one throw during a stolen base attempt that were fielded by the center fielder because they had easily cleared second base. Later in the night, he made a nice throw on a ball in the dirt that made a place closer than I thought it would be.
Jack Mayfield was smooth at shortstop. He had four assist and only one was routine. The rest were with him ranging to either side and making snap throws to first. He made them look easy.
Brett Phillips didn't get much action in center but he showed flashes when he did. He almost made a nice diving catch on a ball he got a good jump on. On the sac fly, he made a strong throw to third from deep in center.
Darwin Rivera made his seventh error of the year at third with a bad throw to first.
This loss ended the G-Stros seven game winning streak. They play Bristol again tonight and then head on the road for seven games in six days.
On The Mound:
Jandel Gustave got off to a rough start in the first. After a strike out looking, he walked the next two batters, the second coming in a 10 pitch at bat. After a fly out and a single, Gustave got the last out with a swinging strike out. He ended up throwing 31 pitches in the first frame and that limited his night to just four innings. Of those 31 pitches, 18 were for strikes (unofficial numbers from my personal score book). He followed that inning up with innings of 12, 12 and 17 pitches respectively. So he really settled down.
Gustave is a pitcher to be excited about. His delivery is very easy and to be hitting mid to upper 90's out of a 6'2 160 frame is impressive. The two hits that came off of him were hits taken the other way through the SS/3B hole. They were nice pieces of hitting. His fast ball has good zip. There were several late swings and several foul balls that were poked into the seats because batters weren't getting around on him. His slider showed nice movement and there were a couple of sliders that were down right nasty. He ended the night with 72 pitchers - 43 for strikes (60%). He threw first pitch strikes to 11 of the 17 batters he faced - again by my unofficial count.
The high point for me is that we know based on his previous stats, that he has had control issues. For him to walk two in the first inning and regain his composure to only walk one more shows positive development.
Austin Chrismon made his pro debut last night. After nicking the first batter on the sleeve, he then got the next three batters out. One out came on due to him fielding his position well. With a runner at second, he gloved a hot shot back at him. He made the runner at second dive back to the bag, removing any chance of him advancing and then threw out the batter at first.
Christian Garcia came in in the sixth and pitched around an error for an effective inning. In the seventh, he walked two batters with one out and then allowed a single that scored the first runner. That ended his night.
Gerardo Ramirez entered the game with runners on the corners and allowed both runners to score before getting the last out. He gave up a sac fly to the first batter and then surrendered a double to left that plated the final run of the game. He ended up finishing the night on the mound with a total of 2 2/3 innings pitched.
Overall, it was the walks that did the G-Stros pitching in. Three of the four runs allowed reached via base on balls. There is no defense against the walk.
At The Plate:
It was one of those nights where the Astros hit several balls hard, they just hit them right at people. I had atleast four line drives that were either right at fielders or required the fielder to make a nice play.
Brett Phillips is fast. He made two routine grounders close plays with his hustle down the line. His final at bat of the night was a seven pitch walk where he fouled off several close pitches.
David Mayfield (Jack) wasn't lucky last night. His first at bat, he hit a hard bouncer up the middle that the pitcher deflected to the second baseman for a 1-4-3 put out. He then hit a line drive in his fourth at bat that the SS made a nice ranging catch on. He finished the night for 5 but he had better at bats than that indicates.
Bobby Borchering reached base three times in four plate appearances. A single and two walks.
Chase McDonald went 1 for 4 in his pro debut. He got a single in his first at bat and then lined out to left and center respectively in his next two at bats before striking out in his final at bat. He is one big guy. He was wearing number 62 on his uniform and it was appropriate for him to be wearing a linebacker type number. He makes solid contact.
Marc Wik turned a rough night around. After striking out in his first two at bats, he walked in the seventh and lead off the ninth with a single to left.
Overall, Greeneville just couldn't get the big hit. They went 1 for 10 with runners in scoring position. Two of the line drive outs in mentioned earlier were to end an inning with a runner on base.
The pitcher who started for Bristol, Scott Carroll, was on rehab assignment from AAA. He missed all of last season so I assume his is working his way back from a surgery of some kind. The second pitcher was the White Sox second round draft pick this season, Tyler Danish. So they were facing some pretty good pitching but that is most nights in pro baseball.
In The Field
Brian Holberton looked pretty good behind the plate. He got a lot of work blocking balls in the dirt. He did allow one passed ball that was a low pitch that the scorer felt he should have blocked. He was apparently a little amped up for the game. He made several throws down to second during warm ups and one throw during a stolen base attempt that were fielded by the center fielder because they had easily cleared second base. Later in the night, he made a nice throw on a ball in the dirt that made a place closer than I thought it would be.
Jack Mayfield was smooth at shortstop. He had four assist and only one was routine. The rest were with him ranging to either side and making snap throws to first. He made them look easy.
Brett Phillips didn't get much action in center but he showed flashes when he did. He almost made a nice diving catch on a ball he got a good jump on. On the sac fly, he made a strong throw to third from deep in center.
Darwin Rivera made his seventh error of the year at third with a bad throw to first.
This loss ended the G-Stros seven game winning streak. They play Bristol again tonight and then head on the road for seven games in six days.
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Catcher Development: Throwing Out More Runners
The other day I saw this tweet:
As you can see, several players have made significant jumps in their SB%. Pena's is the biggest jump but Rene Garcia & Carlos Perez both jumping more than 10% is also impressive. Especially since they are performing at higher levels.
Max Stassi just misses the 10% jump and he too is at a higher level.
As for the others, lets start with Tyler Heineman. I am not going to quibble with -1% drop when you jump from short season A ball to Hi A ball. His number is still impressive. Most players would show a greater drop making that jump.
Jobduan Morales is the only young guy not showing growth. But he is still somewhat still raw. In five seasons, he has only caught 144 games. Never more than 34 in a season and he has caught 33 this year.
Cody Clark is a journeyman and not really a focus of development.
Conclusions
The Astros have talked about improving the receiving skills of their catchers using analysis developed my Mike Fast. But this data indicates they also may have been working on something that has improved the development of their catchers in throwing out runners attempting to steal bases. Having a catcher at each of your full season affiliates throwing out 40% or more would be base stealers is impressive. Something worth keeping an eye on.
#qctimes @QCRiverBandits Roberto Pena throws out 3 LumberKings attempting to steal. He's denied 30 of 53. In '02 here, Joe Mauer 46-of-107That is an impressive stat and puts him in impressive company. It got me thinking about how well Roberto Pena has been throwing out runners this season and it made me curious about how much growth this showed. The growth with Pena was significant and I wondered if it was just him or were other catchers in the Astros organization showing similar growth. So I went back and looked across the system at each catcher who had caught in at least 20 games this season and compared their 2012 stolen base percentage (SB%) to their 2013 SB%. Here is what I found:
— Steve Batterson (@sbatt79) July 3, 2013
As you can see, several players have made significant jumps in their SB%. Pena's is the biggest jump but Rene Garcia & Carlos Perez both jumping more than 10% is also impressive. Especially since they are performing at higher levels.
Max Stassi just misses the 10% jump and he too is at a higher level.
As for the others, lets start with Tyler Heineman. I am not going to quibble with -1% drop when you jump from short season A ball to Hi A ball. His number is still impressive. Most players would show a greater drop making that jump.
Jobduan Morales is the only young guy not showing growth. But he is still somewhat still raw. In five seasons, he has only caught 144 games. Never more than 34 in a season and he has caught 33 this year.
Cody Clark is a journeyman and not really a focus of development.
Conclusions
The Astros have talked about improving the receiving skills of their catchers using analysis developed my Mike Fast. But this data indicates they also may have been working on something that has improved the development of their catchers in throwing out runners attempting to steal bases. Having a catcher at each of your full season affiliates throwing out 40% or more would be base stealers is impressive. Something worth keeping an eye on.
Velasquez Dominating in Quad Cities
Vincent Velasquez was drafted in the second round in 2010. He had a solid start to his pro career in Greeneville. But as his pitch count was building, he suffered an injury that would cause him to miss the entire 2011 season. This caused him to fall off of some people's radar as a prospect. He is trying to fix that this season. After his performance last night, he now has 93 strike outs in 81 innings pitched. That number leads the Midwest League.
The Quad City Times published a feature on Velasquez this morning that gives us some insight into this rising prospect. Here are some of the highlights:
What shapes his approach on the mound.
The Quad City Times published a feature on Velasquez this morning that gives us some insight into this rising prospect. Here are some of the highlights:
What shapes his approach on the mound.
The bulldog-like approach he carries with him comes naturally.His view of the surgery.
“It’s in my genes,’’ Velasquez said. “My father was a Marine and I have two brothers who are Marines. We all like to compete and that’s part of who I am. I like the challenge.’’
“The setback and surgery I had tested me mentally as much as anything and I’m determined to work my way beyond it and have a successful career,’’ Velaquez said. “There are no worries with it now. I have work to do, but I’ll keep at it every time I go out and compete.’’What his manager has to say about him.
“He’s making progress and in his first full season after Tommy John, competing for the full season is an important step for him,’’ River Bandits manager Omar Lopez said. “He’s making progress, started hot, has made a few adjustments in his pitch sequence and fastball command and seems to be on the right track again.’’
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