Going Camping: Updates from Major League Spring Camps

Well, it is less than two weeks to opening day and we have some movement among former G-Stros in big league spring training.  Let's check out the updates starting with those in Astros camp:

Jose Altuve is a lock for the starting 2nd base job in Houston.  He has had a good spring hitting .356 with a on base percentage of .396.  It has been announced he will be batting in the lead off spot.

Brandon Barnes is continuing to make a case for making the 25 man roster out of spring training.  He has hit four home runs and has only struck out three times in 30 at bats.  He continues to provide stellar defense which helps his case as a reserve outfielder on the roster.

Rene Garcia is still in camp.  In a very small sample size (10 AB) he has a .300 average and a healthy .417 on base percentage.  He will likely return to minor league camp soon but it has been a good spring for Garcia.

Jordan Lyles was sent down to minor league camp today.  The Astros want him to right the ship in AAA and then return to the majors never to be sent down again.  Let's hope that is the case for Lyles.  According to Bo Porter, "it is not a demotion, it's a delay".

David Martinez got called up today and made his major league spring training debut.  He came in and pitched the 8th and 9th.  Facing only six batters and striking out two.  He will go back to minor league camp after the game, but it was nice to see him get a shot at some big league batters.

J.D. Martinez is being talked about as a part of the platoon in right field, sharing time with Rike Ankiel.  He is not having a great spring statistically.

Chris Wallace is still in big league camp but is getting limited action.  He will be heading to minor league camp before long.

Outside of Astros Camp:

Fernando Abad has had a solid spring but appears to be looking at starting the year in AAA.

Victor Garate was released by the Dodgers without ever appearing in a Spring Training game. 

J.C. Gutierrez (Juan) is battling for a return to the big leagues after missing last season with an injury. He is facing an up hill battle but is out of options so if he doesn't make the Royals, he might be a waiver claim candidate.

Arcenio Leon is still in big league camp with the Brewers but has only appeared in two games.  Both of those appearances were last month.

Troy Patton appears to be a fixture in the O's bullpen.  He appears to really like playing for manager Buck Showalter

Felipe Paulino is up to 35 pitches, throwing just fastballs and change ups.  He is slated to return around mid season. 

Jordan Parraz hit a three run pinch hit homer today.  He has had a solid spring but has little chance of making the 25 man roster for Atlanta.  But it is only a short drive from AAA to the ATL.

J.R. Towles has had a descent spring but is all but certainly headed to AAA Memphis.

So based on how things look right now.  Two former G-Stros (Altuve & Patton) are locks to be on rosters on opening day.   After that, those with descent chances are Barnes, Martinez & Gutierrez.  We will check in again next week to see where they stand.

 

Going Camping: Update on Former G-Stros in Big League Camp

In Astros Camp, here is the latest on the former G-Stros:

Jose Altuve is hitting .314 through 12 games (35 At Bats).  We got to visit with him briefly down in Florida and he is the same nice guy he was in Greeneville.  He is a lock for the roster.

Brandon Barnes is making a case for a back up outfield spot.  He has played in 12 games and his hitting .409 in 22 at bats.  He is tied for the lead in HR on the team this spring with three.  He continues to play solid defense in the outfield.

Barnes & Altuve talk during warm ups

 (Photo by AppyAstros/All Rights Reserved)

Jose Cisnero appeared in two games (2 2/3 innings) before being sent down to minor league camp.

Delino DeShields appeared in 10 games and received 12 at bats.  He got four hits and stole two bases in three attempts.  He was moved back to minor league camp during the weekend.

Rene Garcia he has appeared in seven games with just eight at bats.  It won't be long before he is back in minor league camp.  We saw him at spring training and he is no longer the skinny kid he was in Greeneville. 

Jordan Lyles has been working on specific issues at the instruction of the Astros' coaching staff.  Therefore, his results on the mound haven't been pretty but results aren't the focus right now.

J. D. Martinez has played in 13 games with 31 at bats.  He is hitting just .258 this spring but likely has a spot on the roster. 

Chris Wallace has appeared in three games with out getting a hit.  Like Garcia, he is there for catching depth and will likely be returning to minor league camp soon.

Michael Foltynewicz appeared in one game and pitched a scoreless inning before being sent back down to minor league camp.  He was seen working out with the AA group during minor league drills.

Ross Seaton made appearances in two games and didn't give up any earned runs in his 2 2/3 innings pitched.  He has been sent back to minor league camp.

Though Jonathon Meyer and Roberto Pena were on the major league roster list, they have yet to appear in a major league spring training game.

Outside of Astros camp, Fernando Abad has been in the running for the final spot in the Nationals bullpen, but it looks like he will be the odd man out.

Felipe Paulino continues his rehab back from Tommy John surgery and will start the season on the DL.

Juan Guttierez (J.C.) has struggled recently and appears to be losing the battle for a major league roster spot. 

Troy Patton after struggling in February, he has had two scoreless outings in March.  He also appears to be getting a good number of ground balls this spring.  We had a chance to talk to Patton during spring training.  He talked about the fact that he came up as a starter and has four pitches has made his transition to the bullpen easy.  He said he can face right handed batters and never show them the same pitch in an at bat.

Jordan Parraz is hitting .200 in 25 at bats over 16 games.  He appears to be headed for AAA.

J.R. Towles is hitting .375 in 11 games (16 at bats).  However, he doesn't appear to have a realistic shot at the Cardinals' opening day roster.

Arcenio Leon has made two appearances for the Brewers giving up two runs in 1 2/3 innings pitched.

Victor Garate is still on the Dodgers roster but has not appeared in a game thus far. 

Going Camping: Update on Former G-Stros in Big League Camp

In Astros Camp, here is the latest on the former G-Stros:

Jose Altuve has appeared in just two games so far this spring.  He is a lock to make the big league club but his lack of playing time concerns me as far as a possible injury.

Brandon Barnes is making the most of his opportunities when he gets playing time.  He has appeared in four games thus far and is three for nine at the plate with a HR, no strike outs and two stolen bases.  He also has two outfield assist. There is a great deal of competition for the outfield spots and Barnes is doing his best to make the decision even tougher.

Jose Cisnero made his first appearance yesterday and was effective pitching 1 1/3 innings give up one hit and one walk while striking out one batter.

Delino DeShields is getting a full taste of major league camp this spring.  He has appeared in four games and has demonstrated his speed tool in the pinch runner mode several times.  He has scored three runs, even though he  has only reached base one time as a batter. 

Rene Garcia is in camp for catching depth and has played in three games thus far.  He is hit less in two at bats but has two walks in his other plate appearances.

Jordan Lyles had a rough outing in his first outing of the spring but it is nothing to get too worried about.  He will likely be in the rotation when camp breaks.

J.D. Martinez is three for his first 10 this spring as he fights for a starting spot in the Astros outfield.  It was reported yesterday he will see some time in right in addition to his usual spot in left.

Chris Wallace is also in camp for catching depth.  He has appeared in two games and doesn't have a hit in two at bats but he does have an RBI and a walk.

Other players on the spring training roster who might get some playing time as the spring progresses (especially in split squad games) are: Michael Foltynewicz (#88), Jonathan Meyer (#96). Roberto Pena (#84) and Ross Seaton (#61). 

 In other camps around baseball here is how the former G-Stros are doing.

Juan Gutierrez  has apparently decided on a name change.  He is now listed as J.C. Gutierrez on the Royals roster.  In his lone outing thus far, he pitched a 1,2,3 inning against the D-Backs and appears to be the top candidate for the final bullpen spot. He should make his second appearance today.

In other news from Royals camp, Felipe Paulino threw off the mound earlier this week and is making progress towards a mid season return.  

Troy Patton had a good outing yesterday with Baltimore.  He came into the game in a bases loaded one out jam. He escaped by striking out Shane Victorino and then got Christian Vazquez to ground into a force out.  His full line for the day was 1 1/3 IP, two hits, one run, one walk and two strike outs.

Fernando Abad is making some noise in Nationals camp.

If one player stood out aside from starter Dan Haren, it was left-handed reliever Fernando Abad. He had a 5.09 ERA last year for the Astros, but he’s been impressing the Nationals all spring, starting in bullpen sessions. Abad, 27, struck out one batter in a 1-2-3 inning. His odds to make the roster are long, but he could work his way into the competition for the final spot in the Nationals’ bullpen. If you’re looking for a sleeper, it may be Abad.

Jordan Parraz  has yet to start in game for the Braves but has preformed well when he has gotten time.  In six games (8 AB), he is hitting .250 with one HR.

J.R. Towles has appeared in two games for the Cards and has one hit in three at bats.

Arcenio Leon has made two appearances for the Brewers (1 2/3 IP) giving up two hits and two walks with no strike outs.  He has surrendered two earned runs and one long ball.

Victor Garate has yet to appear in a game in Dodgers camp thus far. 

My next update will come from Florida.  My son and I leave for Spring Training next Wednesday and hope to see many of Florida based former G-Stros in person. 

Nash Reports To Camp 30 Pounds Lighter

Earlier today, Brian McTaggart of Astros.com, in addition to talking about Delino DeShields chance to start in a Spring Training game and J.D. Martinez trying right field on for size; told us that Telvin Nash reported for Minor League Camp early and in much better shape than last year.  Apparently the Astros talked to Nash about his conditioning at the end of last season and he took it seriously reported 30 lbs. lighter at 230lbs. 

"I just feel all around much better," he said. "I feel faster at first base and in the outfield when I track balls down. If I'm holding a runner, I can get off the base and make a routine play. ... In the past, a ground ball was hit right at me and it was kind of tough. I made it look much more difficult than it really was. I feel much more explosive, I'm in shape and I'm healthier, too."

This is an important season for Nash who had fallen off the prospect list radar this off season.  Reporting in shape is a good first step.  The next steps are to show on the field he worked hard on his fielding and his contact rate at the plate.

14 Former G-Stros in Big League Spring Training

With yesterday's snow here in Greeneville, thoughts of spring are in the forefront of my mind.  As of today, it appears 13 former Greeneville Astros players will be reporting to big league camp when spring training begins.

There are seven who will be in the Astros camp and seven others that are scattered among six other teams.  Players on a team's 40 man roster with have a (40) and those who have Non Roster Invites with be designated with a (NRI).

Astros:
Jose Altuve (40) - Altuve is one of the few former G-Stros assured of a starting spot when camp breaks.  He was expected to be on the provisional roster for Venezuela in the WBC but did not appear on it when rosters were released this week.  So he will be in camp full time.

Brandon Barnes (40) - Barnes will be battling for a spot on the big league club.  At this point in his career he has played in more big league games (46) in one season than big league spring training games (26) over three seasons.

Jordan Lyles (40) - Will be looking to solidify his spot in the rotation and spend the full year in the majors after spending time at AAA each of the last two years.

J.D. Martinez (40) - Will try to show the baseball world that his wrist is healed and his swing is back. 

Delino DeShields (NRI) - No chance to make the big league club but a chance to show his progress to the front office against very good competition. 

Rene Garcia (NRI) - Will be his third year to get a chance to play in a spring training game.  In six games so far, he hasn't had a hit yet.

Chris Wallace (NRI) - It will also be the masked marvel's third spring training.  In 11 games in the previous two years, he has a .250 average.

Braves:
Jordan Parraz (NRI) - Parraz had a great spring last year and then suffered hand injuries to each hand that shortened his best shot for a call up to the majors.

Orioles:
Troy Patton (40) -Coming off a successful season in the O's pen, Patton is a lock to make the team out of spring training. He avoided arbitration today, signing a $815,000 contract.

Royals:
Juan Gutierrez (40) - Was dominate out of the pen in the LVBP and appears to be recovered from shoulder surgery.

Felipe Paulino (40) - Will start the year on the DL as he continues to heal from Tommy John surgery.  He should be back before the all star break.

Brewers:
Arcenio Leon (NRI) - Recently removed from the 40 man roster, Leon will be trying to make the Nashville AAA club out of spring training.

Nationals:
Fernando Abad (NRI) - He will be fighting for a spot in a Nationals bullpen devoid of lefties.  He has a pretty good shot unless a FA signing occurs. 

Cardinals:
J.R. Towles (NRI) - Expect another year at AAA for J. R.

It is interesting to note that of the 14 players listed.  Only Barnes, Martinez, and DeShields  are not pitchers or catchers.

Climbing the Ladder: A Look at the Progress of Prospects (2012 edition)

For the last several years, I have written a piece for the Greeneville Astros game day program about the minor league system.  Here is this year's edition.  It was turned in on June 1, 2012.  I am posting an updated version with updates in parentheses. 

When you attend a game at Pioneer Park, you never know if the player you are watching today will make it to the big leagues in a few years.  In the first two months of the 2012 Major League Baseball Season, six former Greeneville Astros have worn major league uniforms this year. 

1. Jose Altuve (2008,09) has made the most of his first time on the opening day roster.  As the everyday second baseman at the young age of 21 years old, he burst out of the gate with an impressive .360 batting average in the month of April.  Altuve was challenged by the Houston coaches to increase his walks in order to get on base more.  He has taken that challenge to heart and has seen his on base percentage increase over 50 points.  He has become a fan favorite in Houston and if he keeps playing at his current level; he could become the first former Greeneville Astro to make an appearance in the Major League All Star Game. (Altuve has continued his solid season hitting .291 so far in June.  He left last night's game with a hamstring strain. He is currently third in All Star voting) 
2. J. D. Martinez (2009) also made his opening day debut with the Houston Astros this year as the starting left fielder. He had a solid April, hitting .282 but struggled in the month of May.  The highlight of his year so far was hitting the first home run in the new Miami Marlins’ ballpark.  J. D. grew up in Miami and was able to share the moment with several family and friends.(J.D. has hit four more home runs in June.  He is still struggling some with average. He is hitting .230.)
3. Felipe Paulino (2004) started the year on the disabled list with the Royals missing the month of April.  In May, he had five solid starts; finishing the month with a 2.03 ERA and 34 strike outs in 31 innings pitched.  His best start of the year was his first when he pitched six innings of shut out ball against the New York Yankees. (Paulino recently was diagnosed with a tear in his UCL and will have Tommy John surgery. He is out for the rest of the year.)
4. Fernando Abad (2007) continues his up and down relationship with the Astros.  He started the season in the majors but was sent to AAA on April 9^th.  However,  after five appearances in Oklahoma City and not giving up a run, he was called back up to Houston on 4/27.  Over the next month, he pitched relatively well amassing a 2.56 ERA in 11 appearances in May before being placed on the 15 day disabled list in late May with a right intercostal (muscle in the rib cage) strain.(Abad came off the DL on 6/15 and has pitched in three games since his return without giving up a run.)
5. Troy Patton (2004) was on the opening day roster for the first time in his career.  Through late May, Troy has already equaled his number of appearances (20) he had in 2011 out of the Baltimore Orioles bullpen.  He is 1-0 with a 3.97 ERA in 22 2/3 innings pitched.  His work as a part of the Orioles pen has helped the team to a surprising run at the lead in the American League East. (Patton has put together an impressive June with a 1.59 ERA in 11 1/3 IP).
6. Jordan Lyles (2008) has split his time between AAA and the majors this season.  In his seven starts at AAA he is 5-0 with a 3.54 ERA.  In his four starts for Houston, he is 0-1 with a 5.73 ERA.  Lyles is just 21 years old and is still developing.  As of the end of May, the only person younger than Lyles to appear in the National League is Bryce Harper.(Lyles got called back up to stay in June.  He has made four starts and has put together a 4.37 ERA in 22 2/3 IP).

A quick note on a player who was in the major leagues last season.  Juan Gutierrez (2004) who was with the Diamondbacks last season had Tommy John surgery on his elbow in the offseason.  The Diamondbacks released him and the Kansas City Royals signed him to a minor league contract.  He should miss all of the 2012 season as he recovers from the surgery.   

Those Still Climbing

Here is a glance team by team at the Houston Astros’ minor league system and which players there are making some noise early in the season.

Oklahoma City RedHawks (AAA)

Again this year, the AAA roster is full of players who have had at least a cup of coffee in the big leagues.  Over 70% of the roster has major league experience. Many of these players are experienced players who can be called up to Houston to fill a need.  A few are prospects who are honing their craft at the highest level of the minors.  Let’s look at a few of those:

Paul Clemens was acquired from Atlanta in the Michael Bourn trade last season.  He throws in the upper 90’s on a regular basis. He is trying to harness that power in OKC.  He had a great start to the season with a 2.04 ERA in his four stats in April.  He has not been as successful in May (10.29 ERA).  He loves pitching at home where he holds a 1.57 ERA.  On the road is a very different story (11.00 ERA). (He has had a better June with a 5.40 ERA and has lowered the road ERA to 9.95).

The opposite of Clemens is Dallas Keuchel. The lefty has climbed the Astros ladder after being the 7^th round pick in the 2009 draft by the Astros.  In his wake, he has left batters frustrated. He doesn’t strike them out with blazing speed but gets them to hit his pitch using control and command.  He started the 2012 season off with seven straight starts of six innings or more pitched and three or less runs allowed.(Keuckel got called up and has made two outings.  The results have been promising - 1.29 ERA in 14 IP).

Brandon Barnes (2005, 06) was re-signed by the Astros this off season as minor league free agent.  He started 2011 in AA and hit .317 in 44 games with seven home runs.  He was called up to AAA in the last week of May and got hits in his first two games with the RedHawks.(Barnes has continued to hit in AAA in June.  He has hit .358 in 22 games this month and has only struck out 12 times in 81 at bats)

Other names to watch in AAA are Brett Wallace and Jimmy Parades who both spent significant time with the Astros last season but have returned to AAA for seasoning.(Wallace spent some time in Houston while Carlos Lee was on the DL.  He showed he is ready to be the first baseman if Lee gets traded in the coming weeks.)

Corpus Christi Hooks (AA)

Players who reach AA are very close to the majors.  It is becoming more and more common for players to make the jump directly to the big leagues from AA, as was seen last season by the jumps from AA by J. D Martinez and Jose Altuve.  There are several players here worth keeping an eye on. Here are a few of the Hooks to watch closely.

Jonathon Singleton was one of the prize prospects the Astros acquired from the Phillies in the Hunter Pence trade last season.  He is seen as the top prospect in the Astros organization and the 34^th best on all of baseball according to Baseball America.  The 6’2” 235 pound, 20 year old plays first base and left field and bats from the left side of the plate.  He is hitting .313 with nine home runs in his first 49 games this season.  He could be the Astros starting first baseman as soon as next season. (He has had a rough June, hitting just .133 so far this month, Singleton will be representing the Astros in the Futures Game during All Star Weekend.)

Jonathon Villar is a shortstop who came to the Astros organization from the Phillies in the Roy Oswalt trade in 2010.  He spent half of 2011 in Corpus Christi and has shown progress in the first two months of 2012; raising his batting average 20 points, getting on base more and stealing more bases.  He just turned 21 at the beginning of May so he still has some time to develop. (He has hit .278 in June, raising his season average up to .259 - so almost 30 points from his stint at CC last year.)

Austin Wates is a Virginia Tech product who was drafted in the 3^rd round of the 2010 draft by the Astros.  After hitting .300 for Lancaster in 2011, he started 2012 in AA.  He can play all three outfield positions but projects best as a left fielder.  He is a line drive hitter with good speed and a little bit of power to go with it.  He is hitting .298 through 50 games this season. (Waits missed much of June with an injury.  He recently started a rehab stint in the GCL and should be back roaming the outfields of the Texas League soon)

Ross Seaton (2008) appears to be showing some of the promise that was expected when he was drafted in the 3^rd round by the Astros in 2008.  The tall righty is 22 years old and in his second season in AA, he has put together solid numbers through his first ten starts (3.28 ERA).  He isn’t going to blow you away with any one pitch but he mixes them well and he doesn’t walk many batters. (He has had two great outings and two bad outings in June.  Overall, his season ERA is sitting at a respectable 3.83 for the season in AA)

Brett Oberhotzer is another player the Astros acquired via trade in 2011.  He was a part of the Michael Bourn deal with Atlanta.  The big left throws in the low 90’s and features very good control.  He is repeating AA after struggling there after the trade last year. (Has been promoted to AAA where he has made two starts.  His ERA is 6.97 since his promotion)

Jarred Cosart arrived in the Houston organization as a part of the Pence trade with the Phillies.  The right handed pitcher, who turned 22 in May, throws a fast ball in the upper 90’s and a good curve ball.  He pitched in last years’ Futures Game as a part of All Star Weekend.  He has had injury issues in the past but if he can stay healthy, he could be in Houston’s starting rotation for a long time. (He has added a solid June to his resume with a 3.48 ERA and the last two starts have been outstanding).

The AA roster has many more players worth watching including: Chris Wallace  (2010), Kody Hinze (2008), Kevin Chapman, Jason Stoffel, and Jake Buchanan.

Other former Greeneville Astros on the roster include: Jose Cisnero (2009), Arcenio Leon (2007, 08), Ryan McCurdy (2010), and Henry Villar (2008)

Lancaster JetHawks (High A)

The Astros begin their fourth season in Lancaster of the California League.  There are 18 former Greeneville players are with the JetHawks this season.  Lancaster is known as a hitters paradise and as such is tough on pitchers.  Here are a few players to watch.

Domingo Santana was the player to be named later in the Hunter Pence trade last season.  Santana through his first 42 games at High A is hitting .275 with half of his 46 hits going for extra bases.  The tall (6’5”) right fielder is the youngest player on the JetHawks roster and won’t turn 20 until later this summer. (His June has been solid with a .288 average but his power has dipped.)

George Springer was Houston’s first round pick last season out of the University of Connecticut. He is off to a solid start in his first full season in the minors. Through his first 49 games, he is hitting .303 with eight doubles, six triples and 10 home runs. The center fielder is projected to be on a fast track to Houston, meaning it won’t be surprising to see him in Corpus Christi before the season is over. (Springer finished the first half of the season with a .303 average.)

Jonathon Meyer (2009) is quietly putting together a very strong season in Lancaster.  His average, which finished at .264 last season, is up to .284 in his first 50 games.  Meyer is still 21 years old and is developing into a solid 3^rd baseman. (He has hit .273 for June thus far)

Jiovanni Meir (2009) finished the 2011 season in Lancaster.  He returned in 2012 and was showing signs of a break out season.  He was hitting .309 through 26 games when he was sidelined with a hamstring injury. (still on the DL)

Telvin Nash (2010) has some of the best power in the Astros organization.  In his first 47 games, he has already hit 14 home runs.  However, he is going to have to reduce the number of strike outs in order for his power to shine at the upper levels.  He appears to have really improved his defense this season. (Nash has hit another four home runs in June but has struck out 42 times in 64 at bats - ouch)

Ruben (R. J.) Alaniz continues to develop into a solid pitcher.  Through his first 11 starts, he has an ERA of 3.69 and has only surrendered four home runs in the hitter friendly California League.  In fact, he has not given up any home runs in his 26 innings pitched at home.  His fastball is in the low 90’s and he mixes it with a solid change up and curve.  He is the youngest pitcher on the JetHawks staff. (He has had three rough starts and one great start in June, giving him a 8.74 ERA for the month so far)

Other names to keep an eye on include: Eric Castro, Bobby Doran, Rene Garcia (2008), Tyson Perez (2011). (Doran has been promoted to AA).

Other former Greeneville Astros include: Jorge DeLeon (2008), Brad Dydalewicz (2008), Gabriel Garcia (2009,10), Zachary Grimmett (2008), David Martinez (2009), Brian Streinlein (2011), Jose Trinidad (2008), Pat Urckfitz (2008),  Ben Orloff (2009), Alex Todd (2011), and Rafael Valenzuela (2010).

Lexington Legends (Low A)

Lexington is the first stop where players have to adjust to a full season of baseball.  This tests a player’s mental and physical toughness as well as giving them a better level of competition.  This is a very young team this year.  Here are a few guys who started the year 20 or younger and are growing up in the South Atlantic League. 

Delino DeSheilds Jr (2010) is showing progress in his second season in Lexington. 

His batting average is up to .252 through 51 games.  He is leading the league in steals with 32 and has just been caught stealing four times.  DeSheilds is also showing progress in his transition to second base. (DeShields broke the Legends season record for stolen bases in just the 69th game of the year.  He now has 49 on the season.  His average is up to .268 on the season thanks to hitting .311 in June.)

Matt Duffy is a 3^rd baseman out of the University of Tennessee.  He has put together a solid start to his first full season in the Astros organization.  Through the first two months, he hit .320 in 52 games with eight homeruns and 11 doubles.  With him already being 23, he might be moved up a level soon to see how he handles the next the challenge at the next level. (Duffy has hit .309 so far in June.  He has also added two more doubles and three more HR to his totals)

Jordan Scott (2011) was last years MVP for Greeneville.  He is patrolling left field for the Legends this season.  The 20 year old has seen his numbers dip slightly as he hit .266 over the first two months of the season. (Scott struggled in June hitting just .167 in 14 games thus far.  However, he has a four game hitting streak going since the All Star Break.)

Mike Foltyenwicz (2010) is another prospect repeating the South Atlantic League.  He is showing he is ready to move on to another challenge.  In the first two months of 2012, he was dominating; putting together a 6-1 record and a 2.27 ERA in 11 starts. (Is looking like he is ready for the next step.  In June, he has made three starts and lowered his season ERA to 2.13.  His record now stands at 9-1 on the year.)

Luis Cruz (2008/09) is putting together an impressive start to the 2012 season.  In his third year at Lexington, the 21 year old made six starts in the month of May with an era of 1.85 in 39 innings pitched. (June has not been kind to Cruz who has allowed 14 earned runs in 17 1/3 IP. His season ERA has risen to 3.70)

Other names to watch on the Legends roster include: John Hinson, Mike Kvasnicka, Nicholas Tropeano, Evan Grills, and Luis Ordosgotti (2011).

Other former G-Stros who are on the roster include: Chan Moon (2011), Jesse Wierzbicki (2011), Roberto Pena (2010), Carlos Quevedo (2009), Murilo Gouvea (2009), Nathan Pettus (2009), and Euris Quezada (2010) (Jay Austin (2008) has been added to the team as he works his way back from a broken hand.  Wierzbicki has been moved down to Tri Cities).

Short Season Teams

The Astros operate a facility in the Dominican Republic to host the Dominican Summer League Astros.  This facility will help prepare young foreign born players for life moving up the ladder both on and off the field.  The Gulf Coast League Astros play their games at the Astros’ spring training complex in Kissimmee and will be the first stop for many young draftees and those coming to the United States from the Dominican Academy.  The Greeneville Astros as a result, should get players with a little more seasoning.  The Tri Cities ValleyCats of the NY Penn League will continue to be the top rung of the short season team ladder.

Former Greeneville Players Now Playing In Other Organizations

Sometimes the climb up the ladder requires you make a detour.  You move from one organizations ladder to another organizations ladder.  Sometimes these moves come as a result of a trade and sometimes it comes when a player becomes a free agent and signs with a different organization.  Here is a list of former G-Stros along with their new organization and the level they were playing at on June 1, 2012.

Albert Cartwright  (2007/08) High A -  Clearwater (Phillies) (has gotten hot in June hitting .333 for the month)

Koby Clemens (2005) Short Season A - Vancouver (Toronto) (Moved up to High A Dunedin as a catcher)

Victor Garate (2005) AAA – Nashville (Brewers) (7.15 ERA in 26 games)

Sammy Gervacio (2005) AAA – Aguascalientes (Mexican League) (15 saves in 22 games)

Ralph Henriquez (2005/06) AAA – Tacoma (Mariners) (Moved back down to AA Jackson of the Southern League)

Jordan Parraz (2004) AAA – Gwinnett (Braves) (On the DL since a broken hand on 5/7)

Wlad Sutil (2004) AA – Mobile (Diamondbacks) (hitting .225 on the season)

J. R. Towles (2004) AAA – Rochester (Twins) (Struggling at the plate with a .205 average for the season)

Tom Vessella (2006) AA – Richmond (Giants) (2.94 ERA in 23 games of relief)

Amandeo Zazueta (2006) AAA – Tuscon (Padres) (hitting .174 on the year)

The overall goal of any player is to traverse the many challenges they face in the minor leagues resulting in a Major League career.  The players will push themselves to climb as high as they can to achieve their dreams of playing Major League baseball.  In 2012, sit back and enjoy a season of players learning, growing, and hopefully winning as they chase their dreams and reach for the next rung on the ladder.

What To Watch For In 2012 - Former G-Stros Outfield

Heading into the outfield to wrap up our position players in our What to Watch For series. Notice that there are only three names listed from before 2009. Again the years they played in Greeneville, highest level and age on opening day will be in parenthesis.

Outfielders:

Jay Austin (2008 - High A - 21) -Starting his 5th pro season at 21 years of age, Austin's status isn't that different from last year.  Is this the year he lives up to expectations? Can he build off his solid AFL performance with a solid year in AA?  Can we remember that he is still just 21 and be patient?

Brandon Barnes (2005,06 - AAA - 25) - Based on his time with the G-Stros, Barnes has exceeded expectations.  He was very raw and never hit above .220 in his two years in Greeneville.  But he has shown improvement each year.  How will he fair in big league camp this spring? Can he continue to improve in 2012 or has he reached his peak? 

Emilio King (2010- Low A - 22) - King had a reputation as a stellar outfielder but the bat was the question heading into 2011.  He answered those questions with a .293 average in Lexington with nine HR and 24 doubles.  Will he secure 14 or more outfield assist for the third year in a row?  Will his offensive numbers continue to rise?  Can he make it to AA before the year is out?

J. D. Martinez (2009 - MLB - 24) - His rapid assent to the majors finds him as the projected starting LF for the Astros this year.  Will he be a superb sophomore or suffer a sophomore slump? Could he be the first former G-Stro to make an all star team?

Ariel Ovando (2011 - Rookie - 18) - Ovando didn't make a huge splash in his debut season but he did show improvement.  He showed signs of the tools that excited folks prior to his signing through out the year but he just wasn't consistent.  Will he be back in Greeneville for year #2? Has he improved on tracking balls better in RF?  Will we be able to see more of the diamond and less of the rough by the end of the year?

Jordan Scott (2011 - Low A - 20) - Scott had a break out year in Greeneville, tying the team record for hits with 83, and battling for the league hitting title.  What does this year hold?  Can he build on last year's success and put up solid numbers in full season ball?  Can he improve his routes in LF?

Others to watch: 

Grant Hogue (2009 - Low A - 24) - Will he break camp with the AA Hooks?

Bryce Lane (2010 - High A - 22)- Lane returned to earth in 2011 after his strong finish to 2010. Will 2012 see him rebound?   

Jordan Parraz (2004 - AAA - 27) - Will he get a chance to play in a big league game this year? After being in 5 organizations in his career, how long will he be with the Braves?

Garen Wright (2011 - Rookie -21) - Injuries cut his third season short.  He still showed improved numbers in limited action.  Will 2012 find him in Tri Cities? Will this be the year he breaks out?

Projected placement of those still in the Astros organization:
Houston (MLB)
Martinez 

Oklahoma City (AAA)
Barnes

Corpus Christi (AA)
Austin
Hogue

Lancaster (Hi A)
King
Lane 

Lexington (Lo A)
Scott 

Extended Spring training
Ovando
Wright

2009 Greeneville Astros Progress Report

The 2009 G-Stros were the first bunch that were the sandwich short season team.  Below them, the new GCL Astros were playing at the spring training complex. And the ValleyCats were playing above them in the NY- Penn League. In Greeneville, the fans didn't know what to expect from the new set up in the lower minors.  What we saw was a mix of high draft pick high school players and low round/free agent college players.  This edition of the the G-Stros had just seven teenagers and all seven were still active this year.

Of the 35 players who graced the roster that year, 63% (22) were still active on an affiliated roster at some point this season.  Let's look at how high they climbed.  They are listed by the highest level they appeared in and the percentage by each level is out of the full roster.

MLB (2- 6%)

Jose Altuve - see 2008 write up

J. D. Martinez - made a brief stop in Greeneville on his rapid climb to the majors.  He hit .403 during just 14 games in Greeneville.  This year, he hist .274 in 53 games in the big leagues.  He made the fastest climb of any G-Stros position player to the majors. 


AAA ( 0 - 0%)

AA (0 - 0%)
Altuve & Martinez appeared at this level but made it the the show to end the season.


High A (6- 17%)
Miguel Arrendell - The utility man appeared at five positions for Lancaster (RF, LF, SS, 2B, 3B) while hitting .281 in 50 games.  He was moved back to Tri Cities for the last month of the season to sure up their middle infield where he hit just .219 in 18 games. Arrendell will turn 24 during spring training next season.

Grant Hogue - Hogue was a  fan favorite during his time in G'ville for his hustle and easy going nature with fans.  After playing in CF exclusively in 09 & 10, he spent time in all three outfield positions in Lancaster in 2011.  He spent 76 of the 106 games in right field, where he amassed 11 of his 15 assist.  He hit .269 on the season.  He will be 25 when he reports to spring training.

Jonathan Meyer - Meyer continues to show improvement as he climbs the ladder.  In Lancaster in 2011, he hit .264 with 14 home runs.  He had only hit 5 in his previous two seasons.  Next year will determine if the power is the result of Lancaster or his maturation as a hitter.  He will be 21 when he reports next season. 

Jio Mier - He evenly split his season between Lexington and Lancaster, playing 57 games at each stop.  He  hit .245 at Lexington, an improvement over 2010's .235, before moving to Lancaster where he hit .233.  Mier is still considered a solid SS prospect and will be 21 when next season rolls around.

Jose Cisnero  - is the pitcher from 2009 who has climbed the highest.  He pitched in Lancaster and amassed a 6.06 ERA. However, when you average 11.09 strike outs per 9 innings (152 in 123 1/3 IP), that means there is something happening good there.  Cisnero will be turn 23 next April. 

Luis Cruz  - see 2008 write up.

Low A (7 - 20%)
Garrett Bullock - the tall lefty made just three appearances in Lexington before returning to short season ball in Tri Cities.  Those three outings were not that impressive.  However, his 2.51 ERA in Tri Cities was solid.  Bullock is old for the levels he has been playing.  He will start the season at 25.

Jeiler Castillo - see 2008 write up.

Gabriel Garcia - after two seasons in G'ville, Garcia moved up to Lexington where he was solid.  In 69 1/3 IP (37 games), he had a 3.76 ERA which is lower than his ERA in either season in Greeneville.  He struck out 68 batters and had a WHIP of just 1.212 which is the lowest of his career.  He is pitching well in winter ball in Venezuela right now.  He will be 22 when spring training begins. 

Murilo Gouvea - spent most of the season in Lexington with a brief time in Tri Cities.  In Lex, he amassed a 3.98 ERA in 30 games (74 2/3 IP).  He had more than a strike out an inning with 83.  He struggled keeping the walks down.  He will be 23 when next season begins.

David Martinez - was a man in search of a role this year.  He pitched in 37 games. He started five and finished 17.  In 66 2/3 IP, he fanned 44 batters while walking 17.  He will be 24 at the beginning of spring training.

Yuri Perez - like Bullock, he had a less than memorable brief stint at Lexington. He made 15 starts for TriCities where he had a 5.48 ERA.  Perez missed most of 2010 after elbow surgery.  He is still working his way back.  We hope he can regain the form he had in 2009 for Greeneville.  He will be 21 at the start of spring training.

Carlos Quevedo - really struggled to keep the ball in the park.  He gave up 22 home runs in Lexington this season in 151 innings pitched.  That equates to 1.3 HR every nine innings.  He gave up more home runs than walks. Quevedo walked 19 batters for an average of 1.1 per nine innings pitched.  Quevedo will be 22 at the start of spring training. 

Short Season A (3 - 5%)
Bubby Williams - the catcher with the cool name,spent 2011 in the New York Penn League.  His showed power, leading the team with six home runs but struggled making consistent contact.  He hit .206 in 36 games for the ValleyCats.  He will be 22 at the start of spring training next year.

Joan Belliard - repeated the NYPenn league in 2011 but only pitched in 18 2/3 innings.  His strike out numbers are still strong but is still struggling with walks.  He will be turning 23 in March.

Travis Smink - after two seasons in G'ville, he moved to Tri Cities this season.  In 23 games, he had a 4.37 ERA.  He will turn 25 next April. 

Rookie Ball & DL (4 - 11%)
Luis Alverez - returned to Greeneville after missing 2010 with a bad knee injury.  Alverez hit .271 in 38 games.  He only struck out 19 times in 151 plate appearances.  He turns 22 just before minor leaguers report to spring training.

B J Hyatt - listed on the roster for Greeneville but never was in uniform.  Still rehabbing from surgery after the 2009 season.

Wilton Infante & Nathan Pettus - see 2008 write up.

Summary
Like the 2008 edition, the 2009 team still has 22 active players.  Unlike them, it is the position players who have climbed faster than the pitchers.  A few of the players in this group will not be back for spring training but the core of this bunch should be at AA and High A to start next year.

J. D Martinez named Astros 2011 Rookie of the Year

Zachary Levine reports that the Houston chapter of the Baseball Writers Association of America have named J. D. Martinez the 2011 Houston Astros Rookie of the Year.  He hit .274 in 53 games with 13 doubles and six home runs.  He patrolled LF well earning a fielding percentage of .990 and showing he can throw some by adding five outfield assist. 

Martinez played 19 games for Greeneville in 2009 after being drafted in the 20th round that year.  He is the third former G-Stros position player to play in the majors following J. R. Towles and Jose Altuve.

Big Night For Big League G-Stros: Martinez HR & Lyles 1st W

For the first time, three former Greeneville Astros were on the field at the same time. Jordan Lyles was on the mound, Jose Altuve was at 2nd and J. D. Martinez was in LF. Here is how the three did.

Altuve went 2 for 3 with a sac bunt. His one out was a line drive that Brandon Phillips snared to rob him of a base hit. His two hits were a bunt single and a single to shallow right. This outing puts his batting average at .340 and he has now hit in 12 of the 14 games he has gone to the plate. He has also played solid 2nd base since his call up. He is currently the youngest position player in the NL this season and with Mike Trout being sent down by the Angels, he is now the youngest in MLB.

Lyles started his 12 big league game still searching for win #1. He gave a three runs on six hits in seven innings pitched to have his 3rd straight quality start. He didn't walk any batters and fanned three. He walked off the mound at the end of the 7th down 3-2 but J. D. Martinez delivered in the bottom half of the inning to put him in the position for his first big league win.

Martinez got his shot in the #3 spot in the line up. In the first inning, he roped a line drive to LF that resulted in a two run home run off Dontrell Willis. J. D. wasn't done for the night. He ended up adding a two RBI double in the 7th that secured the win for Lyles. He ended up going 3 for 4 on the night and just a triple shy of the cycle.

Martinez Makes 12

#1 RHP Juan Gutierrez
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 8/19/2007 with Houston Astros

#2 LHP Troy Patton
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 8/25/2007 with Houston Astros

#3 RHP Felipe Paulino
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 9/5/2007 with Houston Astros

#4 C J.R. Towles
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 9/5/2007 with Houston Astros

#5 RHP Jimmy Barthmaier
Greeneville Astros: 2004
MLB Debut: 6/27/2008 with Pittsburgh Pirates

#6 RHP Sammy Gervacio
Greeneville Astros: 2005
MLB Debut: 8/14/2009 with Houston Astros

#7 LHP Victor Garate
Greeneville Astros: 2005
MLB Debut: 9/5/2009 with Washington Nationals

#8 LHP Fernando Abad
Greeneville Astros: 2007
MLB Debut: 7/28/2010 with Houston Astros

#9 RHP Henry Villar
Greeneville Astros: 2008
MLB Debut: 9/10/2010 with Houston Astros

#10 RHP Jordan Lyles
Greeneville Astros: 2008
MLB Debut: 5/31/11 with Houston Astros

#11 2nd Jose Altuve
Greeneville Astros: 2008-09
MLB Debut: 7/20/11 with Houston Astros

#12 LF J. D. Martinez
Greeneville Astros: 2009
MLB Debut: 7/30/11 with Houston Astros