The PawSox begin the first game of a short two-game series in Syracuse tonight (7:00 pm) against the Chiefs. Clay Buchholz (3-1, 1.87 ERA) toes the mound for Pawtucket. He'll be opposed by Davis Romero (3-5, 3.48 ERA) for the Chiefs.
Here is a brief look at tonight's contest...
Pawtucket Red Sox (53-32)
The PawSox continue to ride high after taking two of three in Rochester against the Red Wings. Pawtucket has won 9 of its last 10 and and 13 of 15 and have opened a 5 game lead over Scranton/Wilkes Barre in the IL's North Division. This the eighth game of the season between these two clubs with the PawSox holding a 4-3 edge.
Buchholz enters tonight's contest a winner in his last three starts. Over that stretch he has allowed only one earned run on 12 hits in 17 2/3 innings.
In news off the field, PawSox starter Davern Hansack today was named the International League's Pitcher of the Week. Hansack was 2-0 for the week, pitching a total of 15 scoreless innings in victories over Richmond and Rochester. After a slow start to the season Hansack is currently enjoying a 23-inning consecutive scoreless streak.
(Syracuse Chiefs 45-37)
The Chiefs enter the game treading water, with a 4-6 in their last 10 games.
Romero makes his 17th start of the season tonight. He has won his last two starts, giving up only two earned runs in his last 12 2/3 innings of work.
IF Hector Luna enters the game with a 8-game hitting streak. OF-DH Matt Watson has hit in seven straight.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Game 86- PawSox vs. Chiefs, June 30, 2008
Game Wraps- June 29, 2008
It was another busy Sunday across the International League. Here are the results of all the action..
Five Buffalo Bisons drove in runs as they beat the Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees, 7-5 at Dunn Tire Park. BOX.
Chris Roberson drove in two runs, one of which was a walk-off RBI single in the bottom of the ninth as the Norfolk Tides beat the Charlotte Knights, 5-4. BOX
Every member of the Syracuse starting line-up got one hit to lead the Chiefs to a 6-3 win over the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs. BOX
Jon Weber drove in four runs to lead the Durham Bulls to a 5-1 win over the Richmond Braves. BOX
Austin Kearns drove in four runs, but it was Ryan Langerhans' two run double in the bottom of the ninth that lead the Columbus Clippers to a 6-5 win over the Indianapolis Indians. BOX
Drew T. Anderson homered and drove in three runs to pace the Louisville Bats over the Toledo Mud Hens, 4-2. BOX
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Van Every Powers PawSox Past Red Wings
Jonathan Van Every is really going to miss Rochester.
The PawSox center fielder tied a team record by belting three homers in the PawSox' 10-0 whitewash of the Rochester Red Wings in a game shortened to eight innings due to rain. It's Van Every's fourth homer in the last two games against the Red Wings.
Van Every's three homers accounted for five of Pawtucket's runs. The other runs also came courtesy of the long ball with Jed Lowrie (4 RBI's) tallying two homers while Gil Velazquez added a solo shot.
No Rochester pitcher was spared from giving up a homer. Starter Brian Duensing (4-8) gave up a pair of two-run homers, to Lowrie in the first and Van Every in the fifth. Casey Daigle gave up three homers, solo taters to Velazquez and Van Every and a two run shot by Lowrie, all in the seventh inning. Julio DePaula surrendered Van Every's third blast, a two-run bomb in the eighth.
Lost in all the offensive fireworks was the job on the mound put in by PawSox starting pitcher Davern Hansack (4-8). With his seven innings of scoreless ball Hansack has now not allowed an earned run over his last 23 consecutive innings. He held the Red Wings to only two hits, striking out eight and walking no one. Jose Vaquedano pitched 2/3 of an inning in the eighth before the game was halted by rain.
With the win the PawSox now have a 5 game lead over Scranton in the IL's North Division. Pawtucket heads to Syracuse to open a two game series tomorrow night (7:00pm) with the Chiefs. Clay Buchholz (3-1, 1.87) will throw for Pawtucket against lefty Davis Romero (3-5, 3.48) for the Chiefs.
And in case your wondering, Van Every will be able to celebrate a return to Rochester for two games in late August.
BOX SCORE
MiLB.COM REPORT
Friday, June 27, 2008
Game Wraps- June 26, 2008
Here are the results of the rest of the action from around the International League...
The Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees snapped their brief two-game losing streak, up ending the Columbus Clippers, 7-4. Cody Ransom belted a homer and drove in four runs for the Yankees. BOX
The Buffalo Bisons scored five runs in the second on their way to a 7-3 win over the Indianapolis Indians. BOX
SS Mike Rouse went 4 for 5 with a pair of RBI's to pace the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs to a 10-8 win over the Durham Bulls. BOX
Jason Pridie went 4 for 4 as the Rochester Red Wings beat the Louisville Bats, 4-1. BOX
Three Charlotte Knights' players collected two hits apiece of their way to a 6-5 win over the Norfolk Tides. BOX
The Toledo Mud Hens scored all their runs in the 5th, 6th, and 7th innings on their way to a 10-5 win over the Syracuse Chiefs. BOX
PawSox Complete Sweep of Braves, 4-1
Fans of the PawSox have been treated to some quality ball, especially over this last 8-game home stand. Pawtucket won their season-high seventh straight game last night, sweeping the Richmond Braves 4-1 before over 8,000 fans at McCoy.
The PawSox broke up a 1-1 tie by scoring three times in the bottom of the seventh. With one out Jeff Bailey singled to left center off Braves reliever Matt DeSalvo (2-7). After Joe Thurston followed with a walk, Jed Lowrie banged a two-run double to left center. Three batters later Lowrie would score on an RBI single to center by Bryan Pritz.
Other than the late game heroics at the plate, the story of the game was the solid pitching performance, once again, from PawSox starter David Pauley. Pauley improved his record to 10-2, tying him for the league lead in wins. Over seven innings Pauley gave up only four hits. He struck out a season-high nine batters and walked only two.
Pauley gave up the Braves' lone run in the top of the first. Lead-off man Josh Anderson belted the first pitch of the game for a single. He advanced to second when Pauley committed a throwing error on a pick-off attempt at first. Anderson would score three batters later on a Barbaro Canizares ground out. Despite the bad start Pauley was able to retain his composure and pitch scoreless ball the rest of the night.
Red Sox reliever Mike Timlin, on a rehab assignment with Pawtucket, pitched a 1-2-3 eighth. Hunter Jones struck out two in a scoreless ninth, picking-up the save.
Chris Carter and Pritz had two hits apiece for the PawSox. Carl Loadenthal had a pair of hits for the Braves.
After a 7-1 home stand the PawSox play their next five games away from McCoy, beginning with a three game set tonight (7:05 pm) at Rochester. RHP Edgar Martinez (2-1, 4.22) will throw for the PawSox against Red Wings RHP Danny Graves (3-2, 5.40).
I will be away from the computer all weekend, so no updates until possibly late Sunday. Enjoy!
BOX SCORE
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Game 82- Braves vs. PawSox, June 26, 2008
There's not much to complain about when it comes to the play of the PawSox. They look for the four game sweep tonight (7:05 pm) as they host the Richmond Braves at McCoy. LHP Chuck James (3-2, 1.88) goes for Richmond, opposed by RHP David Pauley (9-2, 3.78) for the PawSox.
I am once again away from the stadium for tonight's game. Here is a brief preview...
Richmond Braves (38-42)
The Braves have been dominated by the PawSox the last few nights and are looking for a little consistency in trying to salvage the final game of the series.
James makes his eighth start of the season, He won his last two starts, giving up a total of four runs in 12 innings of work.
Pawtucket Red Sox (50-31)The PawSox look to complete the 8-game home stand at 7-1 if they can get the win tonight. They are winners of six straight and hold not only the best record on the International League, but the best mark in all of Triple A baseball.
Pauley, arguably one of the aces of the PawSox staff, makes his 15th start. He won his last outing, pitching seven innings and giving up two runs against Columbus
Game Wraps- June 25, 2008
Here are the results from the rest of the International League from yesterday...
Four Columbus Clippers had two hits each as they won their second in a row over the Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees, 5-1. BOX
Jon Knott belted a three-run homer to break a 1-1 tie in the eighth to lead the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs to a 4-3 win over the Durham Bulls. BOX
The Norfolk Tides scored three runs in the sixth and eighth innings to upend the Charlotte Knights, 6-1. BOX
Matt Watson and Kevin Mench each homered and drove in a combined five runs to lead the Syracuse Chiefs over the Toledo Mud Hens 8-2. BOX
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Buchholz, PawSox Handle Braves, 10-1
PAWTUCKET- Clay Buchholz was once again spectacular on the mound and the offense hammered out 13 hits, as the PawSox had little trouble handling the Richmond Braves, 10-1, tonight at McCoy.
Buchholz pitched 6 2/3 innings. He gave up five hits, striking out seven and walking two. His only blemish came in the top of the seventh when he surrendered a lead-off homer to Braves 1B Barbaro Canizares. That run ended a 17-inning scoreless streak by Buchholz dating back to his last two starts.
“He pitched tonight”, said PawSox Manager Ron Johnson, “I liked the composure on the mound. When he needed to make a quality pitch he did it.”
“I felt like I got a lot more confidence now than I had about a month and a half ago” said Buchholz, “Just knowing that I can throw it to get an out when I need to is basically what I’m supposed to be doing right now.”
Buchholz was helped by a pair of slick double plays made behind him in the field…one from Joe Thurston in the fourth and another by Sean Danielson in the fifth.
There was no lack of offensive heroes for the PawSox tonight. Bryan Pritz drove in three runs, going 3 for 4 with two doubles. George Kottaras (2 for 4) drove in a pair of runs on two solo homers. Chris Carter (3 for 4) also drove in a pair. Keith Ginter extended his hitting streak to six games with a 2 for 5 night at the plate.
The PawSox began their offensive onslaught with a pair of runs in the bottom of the second off Braves starter Jerome Gamble (0-2). Chris Carter led off with a single and advanced to third on a double by Keith Ginter. After Kottaras grounded out to first, Bryan Pritz laced a double to left, plating Carter and Ginter..
Control problems did in Gamble and the Braves in the bottom of the fourth as Pawtucket added five runs. With one out Kottaras belted his 13th homer of the season deep down the right field line. Pritz followed with his second double of the game. Gamble then walked three of the next four batters to force in a run.
Gamble was replaced by Zach Schreiber, who didn’t fare much better, giving up another bases loaded walk, to Jed Lowrie, and a two run single to Chris Carter.
Kottaras added his second homer of the game off Schreiber in the bottom of the fifth.
The PawSox added more two runs in the seventh off Braves relievers Jeff Ridgeway and Jorge Julio. Carter led off with a walk Ginter singled and Kottaras walked to load the bases. Pritz drove in his third run on a single to center, scoring Carter. After Sean Danielson struck out Ginter scored on an infield single by Jonathan Van Every.
Eric Hull and Lincoln Holdzkom pitched in relief of Buchholz and pitched 2 1/3 innings of scoreless ball.
Canizares and LF Carl Loadenthal had two hits apiece for the Braves
With the win, combined with another Scranton/Wilkes Barre loss, the PawSox are now three games on top of the IL North Division.
The two clubs wrap up the series tomorrow night (7:05 pm). LHP Chuck James (3-2, 1.88) starts for Richmond. He’ll be opposed by RHP David Pauley (9-2, 3.78) for the PawSox.
NOTES: The Red Sox have announced that reliever Mike Timlin will make a rehab appearance tomorrow night with the PawSox at McCoy. He is expected to throw one inning.
The PawSox have had unbelievable success against the Braves. Along with taking the first three games of this series, the PawSox are 23-5 against Richmond dating back to 2004.
BOX SCORE
PawSox Handle Braves. 10-1
The PawSox have now won six straight games, taking care of the Richmond Braves, 10-1 tonight at McCoy.
Complete details coming soon.
Buchholz, PawSox in Control After Six Innings
The PawSox lead the Richmond Braves, 8-0, through six innings at McCoy.
George Kottaras belted his second homer of the game to add to the PawSox lead in the bottom of the fifth.
Clay Buchholz continues to shine on the mound. Through six innings he has allowed only three hits. He has struck out five and walked two. He has thrown 74 pitches, 47 for strikes.
PawSox Open Up Their Lead Over the Braves, 7-0 After Four
The PawSox are in control of tonight's game at McCoy, leading the Richmond Braves 7-0 after four innings.
Pawtucket added five runs in the bottom of the fourth on a solo homer down the right field line by George Kottaras,two bases loaded walks to Joe Thurston and Jed Lowrie, and a two-run single by Chris Carter.
Clay Buchholz continues to impress on the mound. He has given up only two hits through four, striking out three and walking one. He has thrown 40 pitches, 25 for strikes.
PawSox Lead Braves, 2-0 After Two
The PawSox have opened up a 2-0 lead on the Richmond Braves after two innings tonight at McCoy.
The PawSox scored their runs in the bottom of the second on an RBI double by Bryan Pritz, scoring Chris Carter and Keith Ginter who led off the inning with a single and double respectively.
Clay Buchholz has been effective through two innings. He has allowed one hit while striking out three. He has also been efficient, throwing only 19 pitches, 14 of them for strikes.
Game 81- Braves vs. PawSox, June 25, 2008
It's game three of a four game set tonight (7:05 pm) at McCoy as the PawSox once again host the Richmond Braves. RHP Jerome Gamble (0-1, 4.50) will start for Richmond, while RHP Clay Buchholz (2-1, 2.00) throws for the PawSox.
I have returned to the McCoy Stadium press box for tonight's game. So...here is an in-depth preview...
Richmond Braves (38-41)
LINE-UP
Josh Anderson CF
Carl Loadenthal LF
Jason Perry RF
Barbaro Canizares 1B
Diory Hernandez SS
Mark Jurich DH
Enrique Cruz 3B
Clint Simmons C
Derrick Arnold 2B
Gamble makes his third start for the Braves. He suffered the lost his last time out at Syracuse, giving up two runs on four hits over six innings of work. He has spent a majority of the season at Double A Mississippi where he complied a 1-5 record with a 4.83 ERA.
As a team the Braves are tenth in hitting (.256) and tenth in ERA (4.21)
Barbaro Canizares leads the Braves in hitting (based on at least 200 AB) at .309. Scott Thorman leads the team in homers (12) and RBIs (41)
Pawtucket Red Sox (49-31)
LINE-UP
Jeff Bailey 1B
Joe Thurston 2b
Jed Lowrie SS
Chris Carter DH
Keith Ginter 3B
George Kottaras C
Bryan Pitz LF
Sean Danielson RF
Jonathan Van Every CF
The PawSox enter the game the hottest team in the International League...having won five straight and 9 out of 10. They are 5-1 on their current 8-game home stand. They continue to have the best overall record in the league and the best at home (29-14).
Buchholz will make his seventh start of the season tonight. He has been spectacular in winning his last two starts, pitching 11 scoreless innings yielding a total of 7 hits. Last week against Columbus Buchholz gave up only one hit, striking out 6 and walking no one. Over his last four starts he has given up only two earned runs in 19 innings pitched.
PawSox Manager Ron Johnson said it was a welcomed site the last two nights that the team had received strong pitching performances from starters Charlie Zink and Davern Hansack, who pitched 8 1/3 and 8 innings respectively.
"It's a good problem to have" said Johnson, "It gives our bullpen some days off."
Johnson also gave the media an update from the medical front. Kyle Snyder, sidelined since June 3rd with a right groin strain, threw a 35 pitch side session with pitching coach Rich Sauveur. All reports are that the session went extremely well.
Equally well was the first batting practice session by OF Bobby Kielty. Out since June 9th with a left oblique strain, Johnson said Kietly looked good and feels great. Both Snyder and Kielty will be re-evaluated by the PawSox training and Red Sox rehab staff before determining the next move on the road to their return.
Offensively the PawSox are atop the league in hitting (.270). They lead the league in runs scored and are second in both homers (104) and RBI's (299)
Ginter enters tonight's game with a five-game hitting streak. He is hitting .333 over that stretch with five doubles and 1 RBI.
George Kottaras has hit safely in 8 of his last 10 games, batting an even .300 with 3 homers and 9 RBI's.
On a side note, Johnson will be managing on the field but also rooting for his alma mater, Fresno State, to take home the title tonight in game three of the College World Series Finals.
Check back for updates every two innings or so and a complete wrap at games' end.
Game Wraps- June 24, 2008
Here is how the rest of the action across the International League played out last night...
Toledo's Matt Joyce was the offensive star of the night, belting a three run homer and a grand slam, to pace the Mud Hens to a 12-2 thumping of the Syracuse Chiefs. BOX
The Columbus Clippers' pitching staff bent, but did not break, as they scattered 12 hits and still beat the Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees, 4-2. BOX
The Charlotte Knights scored twice in the bottom of the ninth, the winning run coming on a third strike wild pitch with two outs, to over take the Norfolk Tides, 6-5. BOX
Jason Tyner had three of Buffalo's 11 hits to lead the Bisons to a 3-1 win over the Indianapolis Indians. BOX
Despite four hits from Lehigh Valley's Adam Watson, the Durham Bulls upended the Iron Pigs, 4-1. BOX
Adam Rosales had two homers and drove in five runs, and Matthew Mahoney threw seven scoreless innings, to lead the Louisville Bats to a 8-0 shutout of the Rochester Red Wings. BOX
Hansack Solid in PawSox 6-1 Win
PawSox starter Davern Hansack threw eight innings of scoreless ball to lead the PawSox to a 6-1 victory over the Richmond Braves last night at McCoy.
Hansack (3-8), who has now thrown 14 consecutive shutout innings, surrendered only two hits in his eight innings of work. He had command of all his pitches, striking out four and walking no one. 61 of his 89 pitches were strikes.
Offensively the PawSox scored all their runs in the second and fourth innings. A RBI double by Dusty Brown and a Bryan Pitz fielder's choice plated two in the second. Pawtucket scored four more in the fourth, on a solo homer by Jed Lowrie, a two-run triple by Brown, and a gruond out by Sean Danielson.
Brown(2for 3, double, triple, 3 RBI) and Danielson (2 for 3) had two hits apiece for the PawSox.
Richmond starter Jonathan Rouwenhorst (6-7) suffered his second consecutive loss. He gave up all six PawSox runs on seven hits in 3 1/3 innings. He walked two and struck out two. Chris Resop and Andy Shibilo came on in relief and shut down the PawSox the remainder of the game.
The lone Braves run came in the top of the ninth when PawSox reliever Jose Vaquedano got into a jam and hit Jason Perry with the bases loaded, forcing in a run.
The victory was Pawtucket's fifth in a row. And combined with a Scranton/Wilkes Barre loss, the PawSox now find themselves two games ahead of the Yankees in first place in the IL North.
Game three of the four game series continues tonight (7:05 pm) as RHP Jerome Gamble (0-1, 4.50) throws for the Braves. He'll be opposed by RHP Clay Buchholz (2-1, 2.00) for the PawSox.
BOX SCORE
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Game 80- Braves vs. PawSox, June 24, 2008
The PawSox look to make it five in a row as they face the Richmond Braves again tonight (7:05 pm) at McCoy in game two of a four game series. The pitching match-up; LHP Jonathan Rouwenhorst (6-6, 5.50) for Richmond and RHP Devern Hansack (2-8, 5.40) for Pawtucket.
Circumstances again are keeping me at the home base. So, weather permitting, here is a brief look at the game...
Richmond Braves (38-40)
The Braves, losers of last night's extra inning affair, have lost two straight and six of their last ten.
Rouwenhorst makes his 14th start of the season. Last time out he took the loss in a 6-1 contest against the Syracuse Chiefs. He lasted only three innings, giving up three runs on three hits. He did have command issues, walking six and striking out no one.
Pawtucket Red Sox (48-31)
The PawSox, meanwhile, are winners of four in a row, 8 of their last 9, and 10 of their last 12. They remain 1 game up on Scranton for the lead in the IL North Division.
Hansack received a no decision in his last start, a 4-3 loss last Thursday to the Columbus Clippers. Hansack was effective, pitching six scoreless innings and yielding only four hits.
Jeff Bailey looks to continue on his tear at the plate. He has hit safely in 8 of his last 9 games, going .427 over that stretch, with 4 doubles, 4 homers, and 9 RBI's
Game Wraps- June 23, 2008
Here is a review of the action from across the International League on Monday...
The Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees kept pace with the PawSox in the IL North, shutting-out the Columbus Clippers, 6-0. BOX
The Syracuse Chiefs have now fallen 3 1/2 games behind the PawSox in third place following their 4-3 loss to the Toledo Mud Hens. BOX
Andrew McCutchen drove in a pair of runs to lead the Indianapolis Indians to a 3-2 win over the Buffalo Bisons. BOX
J.A. Happ pitched six innings of one hit ball to lead the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs to a 7-0 shutout of the Durham Bulls. BOX
The Rochester Red Wings scored four runs in the top of the eighth inning to over take the Louisville Bats, 8-5. BOX
Javier Castillo and Noah Hall each drove in three runs to lead the Charlotte Knights to a 8-1 win over the Norfolk Tides. BOX
PawSox Do It Again in Ten, 7-6
When a team is on a roll, everything seems to fall their way. That appears to be the case right now with the Pawtucket Red Sox.
Down 6-5 with two outs in the bottom of the tenth inning last night at McCoy, the PawSox mounted a two-run rally and beat the Richmond Braves, 7-6.
Richmond took the lead in the top of the tenth on 1B Scott Thorman's second solo homer of the game, off PawSox reliever Jon Switzer (3-0).
With Braves reliever Jorge Julio (0-1) in the game, George Kottaras and Bryan Pitz started the rally with back-to-back singles. After Chad Spann came in to run for Kottaras, pinch hitter Dusty Brown was hit by a pitch to load the bases. A grounder off the bat of Jonathan Van Every was mis-handled by Braves second baseman Derrick Arnold, plating Spann. Jeff Bailey then earned the game-winning RBI with a bases-loaded walk.
Bailey had another huge day at the plate, going 3 for 4 with a pair of doubles and 3 RBI's. Kottaras (2 for 5) also drove in a pair for Pawtucket. Pitz (2 for 5) and Jed Lowrie (2 for 5, 1 RBI) also had solid nights at the plate.
The PawSox were riding high once again on the back of starting pitcher Charlie Zink, leading 4-2 before Thorman and RF Jason Perry touched Zink for back-to-back homers to lead off the top of the sixth and tie the game.
Pawtucket would strike back to take the lead in the bottom of the sixth on a Bailey RBI double.
The Braves would tie the game one inning later on a Thorman sacrifice fly.
Zink pitched 8 1/3 innings, giving up five runs, four of which were earned, on five hits. He walked four and struck out 10. Richmond starter Brian Lawrence worked 5 1/3 innings yielding five runs on 9 hits. Neither started figured in the decision.
With the win the PawSox remain alone atop the IL North, one game clear of the Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees.
Game two of the series is set for tonight (7:05 pm) at McCoy. LHP Jonathon Rouwenhorst (6-6, 5.50) throws for Richmond while RHP Devern Hansack (2-8, 5.40) takes the mound for the PawSox.
BOX SCORE
Monday, June 23, 2008
Game 79- Braves vs. PawSox, June 23, 2008
The first place Pawtucket Red Sox open up a four game set against the Richmond Braves tonight (7:05 pm) at McCoy. It's the first meeting between the clubs this season. RHP Brian Lawrence (0-1, 8.10) will start for the Braves, opposed by RHP Charlie Zink (8-2, 2.14) for the PawSox.
I am once again unable to be at the park tonight. Here is a preview nonetheless...
Richmond Braves (38-39)
At one game below .500 the Braves are in second place in the IL South Division, 3 1/2 games behind the Durham Bulls.
Lawrence makes his third start of the season tonight. His lone decision came last week in a loss to the Charlotte Knights. He pitched 3 2/3 innings giving up 6 earned runs on 11 hits.
Pawtucket Red Sox (47-31)
The PawSox enter tonight's contest winners of 7 of their last 8 and 8 out of 10.
Zink looks to continue with his impressive 2008 season. He is coming off a win in his start last Tuesday at Lehigh Valley. In that contest he threw 7 innings, giving up only one earned run on four hits. He has not lost a game since May 5th against Durham.
PawSox players continue to get accolades off the field. OF Jonathan Van Every has been named IL Batter of the Week. He hit .318 with four homers and 8 RBI's over his last six games. Van Every's accomplishment comes one week after Joe Thurston was named IL Batter of the Week last week.
Game Wraps- June 22, 2008
Here is what transpired across the International League on Sunday...
Shelley Duncan drove in four runs to lead the Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees to a 10-1 win over the Toledo Mud Hens. Jeff Karstens struck out 11 to earn the win. BOX
The Syracuse Chiefs kept pace in the IL North with a convincing 10-2 trouncing of the Richmond Braves. BOX
Homers by Sergio Santos and Ryan Jorgensen tied the game in the eighth and a sacrifice fly by Trevor Plouffe broke it up in the 11th to guide the Rochester Red Wings past the Indianapolis Indians 7-6. BOX
Javier Castillo and Danny Richar drove in a combined 5 runs to lead the Charlotte Knights to a 7-2 win over the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs. BOX
Reid Brignac belted a homer and drove in three to lead the Durham Bulls over the Norfolk Tides 6-0 in a rain-shortened game in Durham. BOX
Chris Dickerson drove in the winning run in the bottom of the ninth to give the Louisville Bats a 3-2 decision over the Buffalo Bisons. BOX
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Van Every Powers PawSox to Extra Inning Win
Outfielder Jonathan Van Every belted a two run, walk-off homer in the bottom of the tenth to lift the PawSox to a 8-6 win over the Columbus Clippers this afternoon at McCoy.
Van Every's homer came on a 2-2 pitch off Clippers' reliever Mike Bacsik (5-3), scoring Bryan Pitz who led the inning with a single.
The PawSox belted four homers in the game. Jeff Bailey hit two of them, both solo shots, giving him 22 for the season. George Kottaras (#12) added a two run homer in the sixth.
Jed Lowrie (2 for 4) and Keith Ginter (2 for 3, 2 doubles) drove in the other Pawtucket runs.
Bailey's two homers contributed to his 3 for 4 day at the plate. Pitz also had two hits (2 for 5) for Pawtucket.
The PawSox received consistent starting pitching from Edgar Martinez. He worked 5 2/3 innings, giving up two runs on three hits. He walked two and struck out seven. The damage to Martinez came on an Alex Escobar two-run homer in the sixth.
PawSox relievers Miguel Asencio and Michael Tejera gave up four runs in the seventh via a Lance Broadway grand slam to briefly give the Clippers a 6-4 lead. The PawSox quickly tied the game in the bottom of the frame on Bailey's second homer and and RBI double by Ginter.
Lincoln Holdzkom and Hunter Jones pitched 3 1/3 scoreless innings the rest of the game. Jones (3-2) picked-up the win.
Lance Broadway had a big day at the plate for Columbus. He went 2 for 5 which included his grand slam.
With the win the PawSox took three of four from Columbus and find themselves at 16 games above .500 (47-31) for the first time this year.
Pawtucket opens up a four game series beginning tomorrow night (7:05 pm) at McCoy against the Richmond Braves. RHP Brian Lawrence (0-1, 8.10) throws for the Braves. RHP Charlie Zink (8-2, 2.14) will go for the PawSox.
BOX SCORE
Game 78- Clippers vs. PawSox, June 22, 2008
I'm back following a restful week in Mickeyland. My week away was an eventful one for the PawSox...a 6-1 record and a spot alone atop the IL North with the league's best record. I should take a break more often! (By the way, I will also be away from my computer next Friday-Sunday).
Pawtucket looks to take three of four from the Columbus Clippers with a win today (1:05 pm) in the series finale at McCoy. RHP Shairon Martis (NR) pitches for Columbus while RHP Edgar Martinez (2-1, 4.34) goes for the PawSox.
Even though I am back in town, my priorities will keep me away from the stadium for a few days...so we will be restricted to reports from the home base. Here is a brief preview of today's game..
Columbus Clippers (41-33)
Two straight losses to the PawSox have put the Clippers two games out of first in the IL West behind division-leading Toledo.
Martis makes his 2008 Triple A debut this afternoon. He was promoted from Double A Harrisburg where he complied a record of 4-4 with an ERA of 3.98 over 14 starts.
Pawtucket Red Sox (46-31)
The PawSox enter the game winners of 6 of their last seven and 8 of 10. Pawtucket is at 15 games above .500 for the first time since the end of the 2003 season.
This will be Martinez' first start since June 11th. In that game he pitched well, allowing only one earned run in 4 2/3 innings. He did not get the decision in the PawSox' 11-3 win over Louisville.
It's easy to see why the PawSox are atop the division and the league when you look at their balance. Offensively the PawSox are second in the IL in batting (.269). They lead the league in runs scored (404) and are second in homers (99) and walks (289).
On the mound Pawtucket is third in the league in team ERA at 3.70.
The PawSox defense has been stellar, as they own the best fielding percentage (.983) in the International League.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Another Break
I will be away from the site for the next week as my family and I enjoy another week's vacation.
Unlike my last time away I will be vacationing in the States, so who knows, I might be able to check in. But I must warn you...This guy
will be fighting for my attention against my 5-year old daughter and this guy...
I think you know who'll win. Either way I plan to return June 23rd. Thanks for your attention...
Game Wraps- June 12, 2008
Here's what took place across the International League last night...
The PawSox and Bats were not the only teams to play 13 innings last night. Scott Thornton drove home the winning run in the bottom of the frame to give the Richmond Braves a 5-4 win over the Scranton Wilkes/Barre Yankees. BOX
The Indianapolis Indians scored seven runs over the last three innings, highlighted by Ronny Paulino's grand slam, to over take the Toledo Mud Hens, 8-6. BOX
The Buffalo Bisons held on to edge the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, 5-4. BOX
The Rochester Red Wings scored in bunches in the middle innings to take the Durham Bulls, 9-4. BOX
The Charlotte Knights scattered 10 hits in beating the Norfolk Tides, 3-2. BOX
The Syracuse Chiefs and Columbus Clippers were postponed by rain.
PawSox Top Bats in 13, 4-3
George Kottaras singled in the winning run in the bottom of the 13th inning to give the PawSox a 4-3 win last night at McCoy. The PawSox have now taken two of three over the Bats in this four game series.
Joe Thurston got the PawSox going in the 13th with a bunt single off Bats reliever Camilo Vazquez (0-1). Jed Lowrie followed with a single, advancing Thurston to second. A Chris Carter fielder's choice put runners on first and third. Kottaras then belted a sharp single to right to end the game.
It looked like the PawSox would not need to go extra frames as they held a 3-1 lead heading into the top of the ninth. But PawSox relievers Jose Vaquedano and Jon Switzer could not hold the lead, with Vaquedano giving up a bases loaded walk to Andy Green and Switzer yielding an RBI infield single to Drew T. Anderson to knot the score at 3-3.
The PawSox bullpen meltdown wasted another masterful performance by starter Charlie Zink. Zink had great command of his knuckleball, pitching 7 2/3 innings. He gave up one unearned run on five hits. He walked one and struck out five.
Lincoln Holzkom (4-1) took the win for Pawtucket, pitching two scoreless innings.
Thurston (2 for 4) continued his hot streak at the plate. He accounted for the other three Pawtucket runs by belting a three-run homer off Louisville starter Justin Mallet in the third.
Jed Lowrie had three hits (3 for 6) in the game to extend his hitting streak to 14 games.
With the win, combined with a Scranton/Wilkes Barre loss, the PawSox are now only one game behind the Yankees in first place in the IL North Division.
The two teams will wrap up their four game series tonight (7:05 pm). LHP Matt Maloney (6-3, 4.64) takes the mound for Louisville. He'll be opposed by RHP Devern Hansack (2-8, 6.11) for the PawSox.
BOX SCORE
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Lowrie Still on Top of His Game
PAWTUCKET- It’s only June, but PawSox shortstop Jed Lowrie has already had a season’s worth of experiences.
“You can only control so much”, said Lowrie, “I feel like I’ve been doing it all year. The one thing I can control is my approach.”
Game Wraps- June 11, 2008
Seven other games were played across the International League last night. Here are the results..
The Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs swept a double header from the Buffalo Bisons, 7-3 in game one and 3-0 in the night cap. BOX GAME ONE BOX GAME TWO
The Scranton/Wilkes Barre Yankees held onto their lead in the IL North, pounding out 14 hits in their 9-2 win over Richmond. BOX
The Durham Bulls scored six runs in the fifth inning on their way to a 9-7 win over the Rochester Red Wings. BOX
The Charlotte Knights tallied six runs in the ninth to open up an 11-2 win over the Norfolk Tides. BOX
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
PawSox Slam Bats, 11-3
PAWTUCKET- RF Joe Thurston went 2 for 5 and drove in four runs and C Dusty Brown added a grand slam to lead the PawSox over the Louisville Bats, 11-3 tonight at McCoy.
The PawSox scored seven runs in the seventh inning to open up what had been a slim 4-3 lead. The runs came courtesy of Thurston’s three-run homer and Brown’s grand slam, both off Louisville reliever Marcus McBeth.
“Joe Thurston…he’s rollin’”, said PawSox Manager Ron Johnson, “He’s right in the middle of every big thing we’ve got going on.”
PawSox starter Edgar Martinez made his second straight start and held the Bats relatively in check over four and two-thirds innings of work. He was touched for a single run in the fifth on an RBI single by Louisville DH Ryan Hanigan. He finished the night surrendering five hits. He walked three and struck out four. He threw 90 pitches, 55 for strikes. Martinez also found himself in trouble in the fourth but was bailed out of the jam when CF Jonathan Van Every threw out 1B Adam Barker attempting to score from second on a two out single by C Alvin Colina.
“I really liked the way he went after hitters.” said Johnson.
“I’m really comfortable”, said Martinez, “I think everything was working today.”
Bats starter Ramon Ramirez looked impressive early in the game, holding the PawSox hitless over the first four innings.
The PawSox finally got to Ramirez in the bottom of the fifth, scoring four runs. DH George Kottaras led off with a walk. Running on a 3-2 count, Kottaras scored on a double down the left field line by 3B Keith Ginter. C Dusty Brown walked, but Gil Velazquez grounded into a 6-4-3 double play. Van Every plated Ginter by drilling a triple down the right field line. 1B Jeff Bailey followed with an RBI double to left center. He was driven home on RF Thurston’s scorching single past the glove of Andy Green at second.
Hunter Jones (2-2) picked up the win in relief of Martinez. He did give up two runs in an inning and a third of work, one coming on a solo homer by Adam Rosales in the sixth.
Eric Hull and Chris Smith pitched the final three innings in scoreless fashion.
Along with Thurston, Van Every (2 for 4) and Bailey (2 for 4), and George Kottaras had two hits apiece for the PawSox . Jed Lowrie (1 for 3) extended his hitting streak to 13 games with a double in the fifth inning.
Hanigan and Colina had two hits each for Louisville.
Game three of the series will be played tomorrow night (7:05 pm). RHP Justin Mallett (2-1, 3.00 ERA) goes for the Bats. RHP Charlie Zink (7-2, 2.44 ERA) throws for the PawSox.
BOX SCORE
PawSox Blast Bats 11-3
The PawSox scored seven runs in the seventh inning on their way to an 11-3 thrashing of the Louisville Bats tonight at McCoy.
Joe Thurston went 2 for 5 with a homer and four runs driven in. Dusty Brown added a grand slam for Pawtucket.
Complete game report coming soon.
PawSox Take the Lead Over Louisville after Six, 4-2
The PawSox are holding a 4-2 lead over the Louisville Bats after six innings tonight at McCoy
After four scoreless innings, the Bats got on the board in the top of the fifth off PawSox starter Edgar Martinez. After two consecutive walks DH Ryan Hanigan drove in Mike Griffin with an RBI single to center.
The PawSox responded with a vengence in the bottom of the fifth, sending nine men to the plate and scoring four runs, all off Bats' starter Ramon Ramirez. Pawtucket received RBI hits from Keith Ginter (double), Jonathan Van Every (triple), Jeff Bailey (double) and Joe Thurston (single).
Jed Lowrie also added a double in the inning to extend his hitting streak to 13 games.
Louisville scored their second run in the sixth on a homer by Adam Rosales off PawSox reliever Hunter Jones.
Still Scoreless After Four
The PawSox and Louisville Bats are still scoreless after four innings tonight at McCoy.
The story so far in the game has been the stellar pitching of Louisville starter Ramon Ramirez. He has not surrendered a hit through the four innings, allowing only one walk, to Jed Lowrie in the fourth.
PawSox starter Edgar Martinez has allowed four hits in his four innings of work. He got into a jam in the top of the fourth, giving up three hits. He got out of the inning thanks to Jonathan Van Every, who threw out Louisville 1B Kevin Barker at the plate trying to score from second on a single.
PawSox/Bats Scoreless After Two
The pitchers have ruled through two innings tonight at McCoy, as the PawSox and Louisville Bats are scoreless after two innings.
PawSox starter Edgar Martinez has held the Bats hitless, yielding one walk and striking out two.
Louisville starter Ramon Ramirez has been perfect, also holding the PawSox hitless and striking out two.
Game 68- Bats vs. PawSox, June 11, 2008
The PawSox have not lost four in a row all season, and will look to avoid that distinction as they take on the Louisville Bats tonight (7:05 pm) at McCoy in game two of their four game series. RHP Ramon Ramirez (2-0, 6.06) pitches for Louisville opposed by RHP Edgar Martinez (2-1, 4.61) for the PawSox.
I have returned to my perch in the McCoy press box. Here is our view of tonight's game...
Louisville Bats (39-27)
LINE-UP
Michael Griffin RF
Andy Green 2B
Drew T. Anderson LF
Ryan Hanigan DH
Kevin Barker 1B
Jerry Gil CF
Adam Rosales SS
Alvin Colina C
Luis Bolivar 3B
With last night's 8-7 win the Bats now find themselves alone atop the IL west Division, one game ahead of Toledo. The Bats have had great success against the members of the IL North, posting a 15-6 record thus far this season.
Ramirez makes his third start of the season tonight. He has been with the club since May 24th. In his last outing he received a no decision in the Bats' 13-12 loss to Toledo. Ramirez threw four innings, giving up seven earned runs on seven hits. He has been floating around the Reds' organization since 2003.
Roster moves today for the Bats...LHP Camillo Vazquez has been called up from Single-A Sarasota. He was 3-2 with a 4.75 ERA with the Sarasota Reds.
Anderson, who knocked in the winning run last night, is currently on an 8-game hitting streak, over which he is hitting .455. Rosales comes in hitting in six straight, batting an even .500
Pawtucket Red Sox (38-29)
LINE-UP
Joe Thurston RF
Jed Lowrie SS
Chris Carter LF
George Kottaras DH
Keith Ginter 3B
Dusty Brown C
Gil Velazquez 2B
Jonathan Van Every CF
Despite the three game losing streak the PawSox still find themselves firmly in third place in the IL North Division, still two games behind Scranton/Wilkes Barre. By winning tonight Pawtucket will avoid its first four game home losing streak since April of 2007.
Martinez has been asked to do a lot for Manager Ron Johnson this season and tonight he will make his second straight start and third of the season. He pitched extremely well in his last outing, throwing five innings, giving up to runs on four hits in a victory at Charlotte. Johnson is hopeful Martinez can duplicate that effort tonight..
"He picked us up last time in a spot start" said Johnson, "If we can get 4 or 5 innings out of him I’ll be really pleased. He's done a nice job in that role…and it’s a real good opportunity for him."
A trio of PawSox hope to keep their hot streaks alive. Jed Lowrie enters the game with a 12 game hitting streak, going .383 over that stretch with four doubles, a triple, a homer, and 8 RBI's. Chris Carter has a five game streak, hitting .364 with two doubles, three homers, and 8 RBI's. Joe Thurston has hit in five of six games, with .444 batting average, along with a double, two homers, and five RBI's
Check in often as we will be providing updates throughout the game.
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