SB Nation User Blog: roger13

Minor League Report...July 4, 2009

roger13 — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 12:22:48 -0000

Good Morning and Happy Birthday America! The Twins organization had another winning week at 23-18 with only Beloit playing less than .500 ball.

Anthony Swarzak was called up by the Twins and will take Kevin Slowey's spot in the starting rotation (Swarzak last pitched on Sunday, June 28th). Slowey was placed on the DL after last night's game with a right wrist injury. Estarlin De Los Santos and Luke Hughes both are back in Ft. Myers with the GCL Twins on rehab assignments. The Twins released Luis Ayala, who had been designated for assignment. Ken Lipshez of the New Britain Herald is reporting that Yohan Pino will replace Carlos Gutierrez in the Rock Cats starting rotation. Sean Henn was outrighted to Rochester with Brian Duensing replacing him in the Twins bullpen. LaVelle E Neal III is reporting that the Twins have made an offer to Dominican super prospect Miguel Angel Sano. Rochester hitting coach Riccardo Ingram has taken a medical leave of absence. He will be replaced by Rich Miller moving up from Beloit with the Twins hiring former catcher Chris Heinz to be the hitting coach at Beloit.

Five Rock Cats were named to the Eastern League All-Star game including Anthony Slama, Whit Robbins, Brian Dinkelman, Matt Fox and Rene Tosoni. Anthony Swarzak was the only Red Wing named to the International League All-Star Team...looks like he will miss that game. The Twins also signed one recent draft pick this week, left handed pitcher Matt Tone who was the 14th round pick and will join the Elizabethton Twins.

Rochester Red Wings (AAA) (3-2, 38-40, 4th place, -7.0 games)

The Wings moved up a spot this week while gaining a half game on the division leading Scranton/WB Yankees.

Jeff Manship was strong last night in a 6-2 win, pitching 7.0 innings with 5 hits, 1 run and 2K/4BB to pick up his first win in AAA. Anthony Swarzak was strong his last time out in Sunday's 6-2 win, pitching 7.0 innings with 2 hits, 1 run and 5K/2BB. Swarzak leaves Rochester for the Twins with a 4-4 record in 10 starts (65.2 innings) with a 2.34ERA, 1.10WHIP and 43K/16BB. Brian Duensing had a 4-6 record in 13 starts (75.1 innings) with a 4.66ERA, 1.41WHIP and 44K/19BB before joining the Twins. Jesse Crain has appeared in 6 games (7.0 innings) with a 5.14ERA, 1.86WHIP and 11K/6BB. Crain allowed a run in both of his appearances this week, 2.0 innings with 2 hits and 3K/2BB last Sunday and 1.1 inning last night with 3 hits and 1K/1BB. Rob Delaney has appeared in 11 games for the Wings (16.0 innings) with a 5.06ERA with 11K/6BB. He allowed 4 earned runs in two games and only 1 run in the other nine. Armando Gabino followed an eye opening May (10 games, 14.1 innings, 0.63ERA with 11K/7BB) with a solid June (8 games, 17.2 innings, 2.55ERA with 12K/2BB) to improve his ERA to 3.09 in 24 games (46.2 innings).

Danny Valencia is hitting in AAA like the top prospect he is. In his first 9 games, Valencia is hitting .371/.389/.629 with 3 doubles, 2 home runs and 6 RBI. Alexi Casilla also continues to hit very well in AAA, .331/.379/.413 in 31 games (121 at bats). David Winfree hit .294/.374/.412 in 85 June at bats with 1 home run, 12 RBI and 11 walks with only 12 strikeouts. Winfree now has 9 home runs in 261 at bats while hitting .280/.315/.471. First baseman Justin Huber has been a strong addition to the Red Wings lineup this season, hitting .279/.358/.487 in 226 at bats with 10 doubles, 2 triples, and a team high 11 home runs and 44 RBI. Trevor Plouffe has the second most RBI, 41, while hitting .236/.293/.360 in 267 at bats.

New Britain Rock Cats (AA) (3-5, 41-38, 2nd place, -5.0 games)

The Cats lost a doubleheader yesterday with Matt Fox and Cole DeVries as their starters. For the week, they held on to second place while dropping 2.5 games further behind Connecticut.

Cole DeVries had two starts this week while picking up two losses. Last Saturday he allowed 2 runs on 6 hits with 5K/1BB in 7.0 innings of a 3-0 loss with 5K/1BB. Yesterday, he allowed 10 hits in 4.1 innings with 6 runs (3 earned) and 5K/1BB as the Cats lost 6-4. For the season, DeVries has a 5-7 record with a 3.13ERA, 1.38WHIP in 83.1 innings with 54K/25BB. Matt Fox was the starter in last Sunday's 3-4 loss, pitching 5.1 innings with 8 hits, 3 runs and 4K/3BB. Yesterday, he allowed 7 runs on 6 hits with 4K/6BB in 3.2 innings of a 8-5 loss. Fox has a 3.58ERA and 1.43WHIP in 83.0 innings with 64K/36BB and 6-3 record. Yohan Pino made a spot start on Wednesday, pitching 5.0 innings of a 3-1 win with 5 hits, 1 run and 6K/1BB. Pino had a 0.00ERA in 8 games (13.0 innings) in June with 2 hits and 10K/2BB. He hasn't made a lot of headlines, but Kyle Waldrop has a 1.04ERA in 6 appearances (8.2 innings) since his promotion from Ft. Myers. Alex Burnett has a 2.11ERA and 0.98WHIP in 15 appearances (21.1 innings) with 17K/7BB.

It was reported that Wilson Ramos is still several weeks away from returning from his hamstring injury. Erik Lis hit .315/.378/.483 in 89 June at bats to get his average back to .303/.376/.440 with 13 doubles and 6 home runs. All-Star Brian Dinkelman is hitting .302/.389/.438 (31 walks and 37 strikeouts) with a team high 20 doubles while his 37 RBI are second to Rene Tosoni's team high 47. Utilityman Toby Gardenhire is hitting a solid .272/.336/.325 in 114 at bats.

Ft. Myers (Hi-A) (4-2, 5-3, 1st place, +1.5 games)

The Miracle began the second half in a position they are comfortable in, first place.

Many of us have closely followed the career of Deolis Guerra since his arrival in the Santana trade. Guerra, who is in his third season in the Florida State League, pitched his best game as a Twin last night as he took a no hitter into the eigth inning of a 2-1 win. Guerra didn't make it, but pitching 7.1 innings with 1 hit, 1 unearned run with 6K/1BB may be that spark which will ignite the fire within him and take him to the next level before year end. Guerra leads the Miracle with 86.1 innings (16 games/15 starts) with a 6-8 record, 4.69ERA, 1.39WHIP and 57K/25BB. Michael McCardell pitched an excellent game Thursday, 7.0 innings with 7 hits, 1 run and 9K/1BB to pick up his eighth win against five losses. McCardell has a 4.05ERA with 66K/16BB in 80.0 innings. David Bromberg was also excellent in Monday's 5-1 win, pitching 6.1 innings with 5 hits, 1 run and 3K/1BB. Bromberg leads the staff with a 2.57ERA with a 6-0 record with 72K/35BB. Santos Arias has a 4-0 record with an excellent 2.32ERA and 1.22WHIP in 24 games (42.2 innings) with 29K/10BB. Spencer Steedley is one of the top relievers in the FSL with a 4-0 record, 0.95ERA, 1.03WHIP and 37K/11BB in 38.0 innings.

Chris Parmalee had an excellent June, hitting .293/.386/.547 with 4 home runs and 15 RBI to raise his numbers to .265/.349/.457 in 234 at bats with a team leading 10 home runs and 44 RBI. Ben Revere is hitting .310/.379/.372 with 45 runs scored and 28 stolen bases in 40 attempts. Revere also has more walks (26) than strikeouts (24). Rene Leveret, who was leading the team in hitting early this year, is hitting .278/.369/.373 in 169 at bats. D. J. Romero is making adjustments which are yielding results, hitting .322/.386/.494 in 87 June at bats with 3 home runs and 15 RBI.

Beloit Snappers (A) (2-4, 2-6, 8th place, -4.0 games)

The Snappers begin the second half in a familiar spot, last place. This has been a disappointing season as the Snappers haven't played like one would expect from a team filled with so many of the players that led Elizabethton to an Appalachian League championship last year. Fortunately, the second half has just begun and a nice winning streak would get them right back into the hunt for a title.

Early this season their starting pitching was the problem, however, their rotation has been solid for some time. Bobby Lanigan made two starts this week, picking up his seventh win in eleven decisions in Saturday's 6-2 win while getting a no decision in last night's 5-4 loss. Lanigan, who had a 2-1 record and 1.73ERA in June (5 games with 26.0 innings) leads the staff with 86.1 innings with a 4.48ERA and 69K/19BB. Brad Tippett has been the Snappers' most consistant starter all year, as evidenced by his 5-3 record and 2.89ERA in 13 games (71.2 innings) with 60K/14BB. Tipplett also had a no decision in Tuesday's 4-1 loss while pitching 6.0 innings with 4 hits, 1 unearned run and 4K/4BB. Michael Tarsi has been excellent since joining the Snappers last month, with a 3-1 record in 10 games (4 starts) with a 1.95ERA, 1.22WHIP and 38K/12BB in 37.0 innings. With Joe Testa off to Ft. Myers, Matt Williams is the team leader with 5 saves in 23 games (31.0 innings) with a 2.32ERA and 28K/13BB.

Aaron Hicks had a big game last night, going 2 for 4 with a double and triple. He has struggled in his first 11 games (37 at bats), hitting .216/.362/.324 while getting 9 walks with only 10 strikeouts. Recent 22nd round pick, catcher Buddy Munroe has 3 hits in his first 8 at bats. Ramon Santana is hitting .300/.388/.469 with 6 home runs and 35 RBI in 207 at bats. Top prospect Angel Morales missed much of the second half of June while struggling since his return. Morales leads the Snappers with 7 home runs while hitting only .206/.275/.369 in 214 at bats. Michael Harrington has a team high 22 doubles while hitting .230/.278/.374 in 230 at bats.

Elizabethton Twins (Advanced Rookie) (6-1, 10-1, 1st place, +3.0 games)

The Twins stretched their lead an additional 2.0 games over second place Johnson City.

The Twins starting staff has been very solid this summer, led by Angelo Sanchez who got his first win in Saturday's 8-3 win by pitching 5.0 innings with 5 hits, 3 runs and 7K/1BB. Sanchez picked up his second win in Thursday's 12-4 win, pitching 6.0 innings with 6 hits, 2 runs and 6K/1BB. Dutch pitcher Tom Stuifbergen also has a 2-0 record with a 4.24ERA in 3 starts with 20K/2BB. Stuifbergen got the win last night, 7-5, pitching 6.0 innings with 9 hits, 4 runs and 6K/1BB. Miguel Munoz had a strong start in Wednesday's 8-3 win, pitching 5.2 innings with 5 hits, 1 run and 4K/0BB, also picking up his second win without a loss. Munoz leads the staff with a 2.53ERA and 1.13WHIP in 10.2 innings with 13K/1BB. Recent second round pick Billy Bullock has a 1.69ERA in 5.1 innings with 7K/0BB. Ramon Acosta did not allow an earned run in 54.2 innings in the DSL last summer. That has changed, however, he has an excellent 1.80ERA in 5.0 innings with the Twins.

If it weren't for the incredible week of a teammate, Tyler Ladendorf would be this week's Player of the Week. In his first 11 games (42 at bats) with the Twins, this former second round pick is hitting .429/.519/.762 with 5 doubles, 3 home runs and 14 RBI. After hitting .204/.308/.392 in 147 at bats in the GCL last summer, it is great seeing this young prospect off to a great start this season. Many aren't aware that Aaron Hicks didn't have the highest batting average for the GCL Twins last year. Anderson Hidalgo hit .364/.453/.466 in 88 at bats, just missing having enough at bats to qualify for the league title. Hidalgo is playing third base this year while hitting .276/.371/.448 in 29 at bats. Josmil Pinto is a catcher/designated hitter with 4 home runs (including 1 grand slam) and 13 RBI in 30 at bats, hitting .267/.258/.767.

GCL Twins (Rookie) (2-1, 5-1, 1st place, +2.0 games)

The GCL Twins lost a couple games this week to rain while doubling their lead over the Orioles.

B.J. Hermsen followed his no-hit first start with his second win last night, 5-2. Hermsen pitched 5.1 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs (1 earned) and 4K/1BB. Shooter Hunt made his second rehab start with the GCL Twins in Tuesday's 4-1 loss, pitching 4.0 innings with 2 hits, 1 run, 4K/6BB, 2 wild pitches and 1 hit batter! Blayne Weller didn't get the win in Monday's game against the Orioles that is scheduled to be completed today. Weller pitched 5.0 innings with 2 hits, 1 unearned run and 5K/0BB. I wrote about Adrian Salcedo often last summer as the 17 year old starter compiled a 4-4 record with a 1.65ERA in the DSL. In 2 games (9.0 innings) this summer, Salcedo has a 1.00ERA, 1.00WHIP and 10K/0BB. Recent 16th round pick Dakota Watts hasn't allowed a run in 4.0 innings with 3K/2BB.

Who is Kennys Vargas? He is an 18 year old Puerto Rican first baseman who isn't in the media guide, didn't play professional ball last year and wasn't a draft pick. What he has done is another question. In his first 5 games in the GCL, Vargas is hitting .438/.500/.938 in 16 at bats with 2 home runs (including a grand slam last Sunday) and 8 RBI. Another young player who is making people take notice is centerfielder Wang-Wei Lin who is hitting .385/.467/.577 in 26 at bats. Hyeong-rok Choi is hitting .333/.385/.500 in 12 at bats while outfielder Hyun-wook Choi is hitting .333/.375/.400.

DSL Twins (Dominican Summer League) (3-3, 18-11, 3rd place, -2.5)

The DSL Twins slipped a spot in the standings while losing 1.0 game to the division leading White Sox.

Pedro Guerra had another great start in Tuesday's 7-0 win, pitching 6.0 shutout innings with 2 hits and 7K/0BB. Guerra has a 3-0 record without allowing an earned run in 31.0 innings with 30K/5BB. Renzo Reverol has a 4-1 record including a win on Thursday, 6-1, when he pitched 7.0 innings with 3 hits, 1 unearned run and 7K/1BB. Reverol has a 2.08ERA, 0.72WHIP and 35K/4BB in 34.2 innings. Eddy Santana leads the bullpen with 4 saves in 10 games (13.0 innings) with a 5.54ERA and 12K/3BB. Seventeen year old Luis Nunez has a 1-2 record and 4.11ERA in 8 games (15.1 innings) with 16K/4BB. Fellow seventeen year old reliever, Francisco Nunez, has a 2-0 record and 1.59ERA in 8 games (22.2 innings) with 3 saves and 28K/3BB.

Yorby Martinez (20) is hitting .293 in his last ten games while Candido Pimentel (18) has had back to back multi hit games the last two days.

Player of the Week

Some of us were surprised when the Twins moved Danny Rams from EST to the Miracle when a catcher was moved up to fill in for an injured catcher. After all, this 2007 second round pick hit only .258/.311/.361 with 13 RBI in 97 at bats for the GCL Twins that summer. Rams followed his rookie season by moving up to Elizabethton last year where he hit .228/.301/.423 with 24 RBI in 149 at bats. When he was drafted, Rams was reported to be one of the better high school power hitters in the draft. Although he didn't hit a home run in the GCL in 2007, Rams did hit five with Elizabethton in 2008.

Although there isn't a lot of information available out of extended spring training, Rams must have made an impression to get the call to the Miracle. He responded by getting four hits in thirteen at bats (.308 Average) with 2 doubles and 3 RBI. It appears that the Twins want Rams to experience success, thus, they sent him back to Elizabethton rather than to Beloit who certainly needs a few hitters.

Rams has responded with an incredible start including a week he will certainly remember. In six games, Rams hit 10-24 (.417 Average) with 8 runs scored, 1 double, 5 home runs and 13 RBI with 4 walks and 11 strikeouts. In 39 at bats in 10 games this season, Rams is hitting .410/.500/.949 with 13 runs scored, 4 doubles, 1 triple, 5 home runs and 18 RBI. It will be interesting to see how long Rams and Tyler Ladendorf remain in Eastern Tennessee?

Minor League Report...June 27, 2009

roger13 — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:22:58 -0000

Good Morning from St. Louis. Because we are at the weekend series with the Cardinals, this report will be brief and different than normal.

Led by the two short-season rookie league teams who remain undefeated, the organization went 20-14 this week.

Last Sunday, Jim Rantz announced Juan Portes as the Twins Minor League Player of the Week. Mr. Rantz also commented that Ft. Myers outfielder Joe Benson was about three weeks away from returning to action. Michael Tarsi was named the MidWest League Pitcher of the Week. The Twins moved Kyle Waldrop up to the New Britian bullpen to replace Jeff Manship who was promoted to Rochester. Bobby Keppel was called up by the Twins to replace Luis Ayala who was DFA. Alejandro Machado, who had returned from the DL a week earlier was placed back on the disabled list. Danny Valencia was promoted to Rochester with Danny Berg moving up to New Britain as his replacement. Denard Span was activated by the Twins with Jason Pridie moving back to the Red Wings. Finally, Joe Testa was promoted to Ft. Myers following his appearance in the MWL All-Star game.

As of Thursday, the Twins had signed total of fourteen of this year's draft picks. Signing this week were Christopher Herrmann (#6), Brad Stillings (#7), James Dozier (#8), Nick Lockwood (#9), Tony Davis (#12), Dakota Watts (#16), Buddy Monroe (#22), and Paul Klingsberg (#49).

Rochester Red Wings (AAA) (2-5, 35-38, 5th place, -7.5 games)

The Wings slipped under .500 this week as they lost five straight before winning the last two nights. Even though it was a tough week, they gained a half game on first place Scranton/WB even though they dropped another spot in the standings to fifth place.

Jeff Manship made his first start on Thursday in a game the Wings would eventually win against Columbus, 8-7. My comment after he made it through the first inning was OUCH, as Jeff allowed 4 runs (3 earned) on 5 hits with 3 strikeouts scattered amongst all the base runners. Fortunately, it was first inning jitters as Jeff proceded to calm down and pitch 5 shutout innings as the Wings fought back for their first win of the week. Brian Duensing pitched his best game of the year in last night's 6-1 win. Duensing pitched 8.0 innings with 6 hits, 1 run and 4K/0BB to pick up his fourth win against six losses. Jesse Crain made four appearances this week, including on Thursday when he pitched 0.2 innings with no hits, 1 strikeout and 2 walks that preceded a long rain delay. Unfortunately, both runners scored with Juan Morillo on the mound when action resumed. Crain pitched 3.0 shutout innings in his other three outings with a total of 2 hits and 6K/1BB.

Danny Valencia has been on fire since his promotion. In four games (18 at bats), he is hitting .500/.500/.722. It has also been reported that Valencia will be the Red Wings regular third baseman the rest of the season. It will be interesting to see where Luke Hughes plays when he returns from the DL...with some mention (by Ron Gardenhire) of second base, although that is currently being manned by Alexi Casilla. Steve Tolleson continues to play very well in AAA, hitting .327/.400/.467 with 13 walks and 15 strikeouts in 107 at bats. Brock Peterson has also been hitting better after hitting .214Average in April and .114Average in May, Peterson has his average up to .246/.321/.349 in 126 at bats.

New Britain Rock Cats (AA) (3-2, 38-33, 2nd place, 2.5 games out)

The Cats held serve with first place Connecticut this week as they battle to stay in the hunt for a Eastern League playoff spot.

The Cats wasted an excellent start by Carlos Gutierrez in Wednesday's 5-3 loss. Gutierrez pitched 5.0 innings with 2 hits, 1 run and 4K/0BB. New Britain Herald reporter Ken Lipshez is reporting that Gutierrez is on a strict pitch count and will be limited to five starts (Wednesday was his fourth) for the Cats before moving to the bullpen. In four starts (19.0 innings), Gutierrez has a 5.21ERA with 8K/8BB. Cole DeVries got back on track with a 9-1 win last Sunday, evening his record at 5-5. DeVries pitched 6.0 shutout innings with 4 hits and 3K/3BB. Matt Fox has been the Cats best starter this year but wasn't as sharp in Tuesday's 5-4, thirteen inning win, pitching only 4.1 innings with 11 hits, 4 runs and 2K/0BB. Yohan Pino got the win, his second in three decisions, by pitching 3.0 perfect innings with 5 strikeouts. Pino has a very good 3.89ERA in 28 games (41.2 innings) with 43K/11BB.

Whit Robbins is hitting .314/.390/.477 in 239 at bats with 7 home runs and 31 RBI following the last ten games in which he hit only .175Average. Brian Dinkelman is hitting a solid .291/.382/.430 in 237 at bats with 38 RBI. Brandon Roberts is hitting .287/.355/.385 in 195 at bats with 31 runs scored and 9 stolen bases in 12 attempts. With Danny Valencia moving up to Rochester, New Britain has moved last week's Player of the Week Juan Portes back to third base.

Ft. Myers Miracle (Hi-A) (3-2, 1-1, tied for first place)

Congratulations to the Florida State League South Division first half champion Miracle who finished the first half with a 43-26 record. They began the second half by splitting two games and are in a three way tie for first with Palm Beach and Sarasota.

Jim Rantz was quoted by LaValle E Neal III as saying that although the numbers don't reflect it, Deolis Guerra has made significant improvement in his mechanics and is back to throwing around 91-92. Guerra won his fifth game in twelve decisions on Tuesday, pitching 6.0 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs (2 earned) and 3K/0BB. Guerra has a 5.03ERA in 73.1 innings with 49K/22BB. Steve Hirschfield was the starter in Monday's 4-3 loss as he fills the slot vacated by the Carlos Gutierrez promotion. He pitched 5.1 shutout innings with 6 hits and 3K/2BB. For the season, Hirschfield has started 4 of his 19 games (42.0 innings) with a 1.50ERA and 29K/13BB. Kyle Waldrop had a 3.09ERA in 30 games (35.0 innings) with 20K/7BB before his recent promotion. Dutch native Loek Van Mil is working hard to come back from his elbow injury. He has appeared in 8 games (15.0 innings) with a 0.60ERA and 10K/8BB.

Deibinson Romero had two games to remember this week. On Wednesday, he was 2-3 with 2 runs scored, his third home run, 4 RBI and a walk. He followed that with a 4-4 night with a run scored, 2 doubles, a triple and 3 RBI. After hitting only .163Average in May, Romero hit .389Average in his last ten games to bring his numbers up to .245/.318/.354 in 237 at bats. Chris Parmalee has his Average up to a respectable .264/.350/.450 and also leads the Miracle with 9 home runs and 41 RBI.

Beloit Snappers (A) (1-4, 0-2, Tied/7th place, 2.0 games out)

The Snappers finished their first half in last place with a record of 27-43. Many are hopeful that they have fine tuned their roster to make a run in the second half, however, a 0-2 start isn't the way to get out of the starting blocks.

Joe Testa got two outs as the Snappers sole representative in this weeks All-Star game. He then proceded to pack his bags and hop on a plane to Ft. Myers. Testa had a 0-2 record, 2.56ERA and an amazing 63K/23BB in 25 games (45.2 innings). In his first appearance for the Miracle last night, Testa threw 2.0 innings with 3 hits, 1 unearned run and 2K/1BB. Michael Tarsi earned his recognition by pitching 7.0 shutout innings with 2 hits and 5K/0BB in a 2-1 win on June 16. He followed that outing Sunday by pitching 6.2 shutout innings with 7 hits and 5K/2BB. As is often the case, Joe Testa took the loss with an off night before his promotion, picking up his second loss by allowing 4 hits and 5 runs in 2.0 innings with 5K/2BB.

Angel Morales was hitting better in May, however, was battling an injury and played last night for the first time since June 17th. Ramon Santana continues to lead the Snappers in hitting at .311/.407/.481 in 183 at bats. Former first round pick Aaron Hicks is hitting .235/.409/.294 in 17 at bats since his recent promotion. He also has walked 5 times with 5 strikeouts.

Elizabethton Twins (Appalachian Rookie League) (4-0, 4-0, 1st place, +1.0)

As Twins fans have become accustomed to, the Elizabethton Twins are in first place a game ahead of Johnson City. For the week, the Twins are 4-0 with a combined score of 34-9!

Unlike prior years when some have criticized the Twins for having a team loaded with college aged players in a rookie league, this year's starting staff is anything but old. The starters in their first two games were 20-year old veterans of the WBC returning from a year off with injuries, Tom Stuifbergen and Liam Hendriks. Stuifbergen pitched 6.0 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs (1 earned) and 10K/0BB in their opening night 8-2 win. Hendriks followed with 6.0 shutout innings with 3 hits and 6K/0BB in a 4-1 win. The rest of the starting staff will be three Latin starters who anchored the GCL Twins starting rotation last season, Martire Garcia, Miguel Munoz and Angelo Sanchez. Garcia and Sanchez are 19 while Munoz is 20. Garcia pitched 5.0 innings in Thursday's 8-2 win, allowing 1 run with 2K/3BB. Munoz pitched 5.0 innings in last night's 14-4 win with 6 hits and 3K/2BB. Recent 12th round pick, Tony Davis, made two appearances (2.0 innings) with 5K/0BB while earning one save.

2007 14th round pick, catcher Danny Rohlfing, is now listed as an outfielder. This year's 6th round pick, catcher Chris Herrmann, has also been playing in the outfield and was 4-7 in his first two games. Last year's second round pick, Tyler Ladendorf, hit only .204/.308/.293 in 147 at bats in the GCL. Jim Rantz was recently quoted as saying that sometimes you just have to give a player a mulligan in their first year as they adjust to wooden bats. Well he certainly appears to be a different player this summer as he is hitting .500/.579/1.000 in his first 14 at bats with 2 home runs and 6 RBI.

GCL Twins (3-0, 3.0, 1st place, +1.0)

The GCL Twins began this season on a three game winning streak and lead the Orioles by a game.

A young man who I mentioned frequently while in the DSL last year, Adrian Salcedo, got the opening day start. Only 18 years old, Salcedo proceded to pitch 4.0 shutout innings with 2 hits and 5K/0BB. Building on a season in the DSL where he was 4-4 in 54.8 innings with a 1.65ERA and 50K/8BB, Salcedo appears to be someone we will continue to hear about as he moves up the ladder towards the Twins. The second games starter was someone that we heard lots about last year, but not from the mound. The Twins signed 6th round pick, Brett Hermsen, only hours before the August deadline after the summer Iowa high school season had ended. Thus, his first professional start was Wednesday when he proceded to pitch 6.0 perfect innings with 3K/0BB to pick up his first win, 5-0. The Twins bullpen backed up Hermsen with three more hitless innings to give the Twins a staff no-hitter in their second game of the season. Eliecer Cardena pitched 1.0 no-hit inning with recent sixteenth round pick Dakota Watts pitching 2.0 no-hit innings, however, with one walk to finish off the no-hitter. On Thursday, Shooter Hunt made a rehab start for the Twins, pitching 4.0 shutout innings with 3 hits, 1 strikeout, NO walks and NO wild pitches for a very solid performance by this young man who is battling back from an injury and the control problems he faced with the Snappers.

Most Twins fans are very familiar with all the excellent young centerfielders in the organization while many are not familiar with the GCL Twins centerfielder, Wang-Wei Lin. Lin is hitting .500/.500/.714 with 1 home run and 5 RBI in 14 at bats. I recently commented that the Twins entry in the GCL shouldn't be named the Twins, rather, the Internationals...as they fielded an opening day starting ten with three players from the Dominican Republic (Adrian Salcedo, Jhonatan Arias and Daniel Santana), two from South Korea (Hyeong-rok Choi and In-Kyun Kang), and one each from Puerto Rico (Kennys Vargas), Australia (Rory Rhodes, who is only 17), Venezuela (Oswaldo Arcia), Taiwan (Lin), and the Czech Republic (Matej Hajma).

DSL Twins (Dominican Summer League) (4-1, 15-8, 2nd place, -1.5 games out)

The Twins moved up a spot into a two team tie for second while picking up a game and a half on the division leading White Sox.

Former Player of the Week Cesar Ciurcina pitched 6.0 innings in Tuesday's 6-3 win giving him three wins without a loss. He allowed 3 runs (2 earned) with 6 hits and 2K/0BB. Ciurcina has a 1.38ERA in 26.0 innings with 18K/1BB. Pedro Guerra was 8-2 last season with a 2.45ERA in 84.1 innings with 75K/12BB. It may be a bit surprising that this 19 year old didn't move up to the GCL this year and he is certainly pitching like he believes he deserves that next move. He pitched 6.0 shutout innings with 6 hits and 3K/1BB in Wednesday's 2-0 win. For the season, Guerra is 2-0 in five starts (25.0 innings) with a 0.00ERA and 27K/5BB.

Third baseman Yorby Martinez (20 years old) leads the Twins in hitting at .305/.394/.322 in 59 at bats. Second baseman Juan Blanco (20) is hitting .286/.329/.403 in 77 at bats while leading the team with 10 stolen bases in 14 attempts.

Player of the Week

The Twins drafted outfielder Rene Tosoni in the 36th round of the 2005 draft. For various reasons, this young Canadian didn't play for the Twins until 2007 when he was one of the leading hitters for the Elizabethton Twins before making a brief appearance for the Beloit Snappers in the playoffs. Last season Tosoni skipped A ball to become one of the top hitters early in the season at Ft. Myers. Unfortunately, he broke his foot which limited him to only 42 games (140 at bats) in which he hit .300/.408/.414.

The Twins are an organization with a history of not pushing prospects. Yet, this season they assigned Tosoni to AA New Britain even though his only experience other than rookie ball was 42 games at Ft. Myers and a handful at Beloit in 2007. Tosoni responded by hitting .180/.261/.361 in 61 at bats in April with only 6 walks and 23 strikeouts. This talented young prospect continued to work and improved in May, hitting .323/.422/.591 in 93 at bats while nearly doubling his walks to 11 and holding his strikeouts at 23. Although his average has dipped a bit this month to .281, he has maintained his OBP at .418 with a SLG PCT of .453 in 64 at bats. More important, he has walked 13 times with only 12 strikeouts.

Tosoni is this week's Player of the Week after going 9-19 (.473Average) with 6 runs scored, 3 doubles and 1 home run with 10 RBI and 1 stolen base in 2 attempts. After his tough first month, Tosoni has his average up to .271/.377/.486 in 218 at bats while leading the Rock Cats with 45 RBI and 9 home runs. He also has 14 doubles, 3 triples, 35 runs scored and 30 walks with 58 strikeouts.

To cap off his week, Tosoni was named to play in the Futures All-Star game in St. Louis as a member of the World Team.

Minor League Report...June 20, 2009

roger13 — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 11:35:28 -0000

Good morning! The organization put up another winning week with no teams playing under .500, finishing with 17 wins against 14 losses. Congratulations to the Ft. Myers Miracle who clinched the FSL South division championship on Thursday. The Miracle will also host today's FSL All-Star game with David Bromberg following in the footsteps of Kevin Slowey and Jeff Manship as the South Division starting pitcher.

Jim Rantz named Rochester pitcher Kevin Mulvey as the Twins organization Player of the Week last Sunday. Anthony Swarzak won his final start with the Twins and was immediately optioned back to Rochester with Jose Morales being recalled from the Red Wings. Wilson Ramos returned to the disabled list with an injured hamstring. The Twins released Henry Sanchez who had been serving a 50-game suspension. In a surprise move to some, the Twins optioned Jesse Crain to Rochester with Jason Pridie moving up to the Twins to replace Denard Span who was placed on the disabled list. The Red Wings also activated infielder Alejandro Machado. Catchers Danny Lehmann and Alan de San Miguel moved up to New Britain with Jeff Christy moving up to Rochester. Pitcher Carlos Gutierrez also moved up to New Britain with Steven Hirschfield being named to the FSL All-Star game as his replacement. The Beloit Snappers activated pitcher Tom Wright from the DL and released pitcher Danny Rondon. Catcher/Third Baseman Juan Richardson was promoted to Ft. Myers to make room on the Snappers roster for last year's top pick, Aaron Hicks. It has also been reported by several sources, including Seth Stohs, that Rochester has released Ben Hendrickson and New Britain has released Zach Ward.

As of today, it has been reported that the Twins have signed six of their recent draft picks, Billy Bullock (#2), Derek McCallum (#4), Tobias Streich (#5), Nick Tindall (#17), Kane Holbrooks (#21), and Trayvane Johnson (#30).

Rochester Red Wings (AAA) (4-3, 33-33, 4th place, -8.0 games)

The Red Wings had a winning week, however, lost another 2.0 games to the division leading Scranton/WB Yankees.

Philip Humber was solid in last Saturday's 4-2 loss at Toledo. Humber pitched 5.1 innings with 7 hits, 4 runs (3 earned) and 3K/2BB.........Humber returned last night to pitch his best game of the year in the Wings 2-1 win over visiting Toledo. Humber pitched 7.0 innings with 4 hits, 1 run and 10K/1BB to improve his record to 2-4. Juan Morillo pitched 2.0 shutout innings of relief with 2 hits and 3K/0BB to pick up his second save.........Brian Duensing gave up 10 hits in Sunday's 6-1 loss, pitching 6.0 innings with 4 runs and 5K/0BB to pick up his fifth loss against three wins.........Jason Jones had his best start of the season in Monday's 4-2 win, pitching 6.1 shutout innings with 7 hits and 1K/1BB to pick up his second win in seven decisions. Rob Delaney earned his first save as he allowed 2 hits and a run in 1.1 innings with 1K/0BB.........Kevin Mulvey followed up the start that earned him the Player of the Week with one of his toughest starts of the year in Tuesday's 10-3 loss. Mulvey lasted only 3.2 innings with 10 hits, 8 runs (4 earned) and 3K/2BB.........Bobby Keppel has been starting of late and was Wednesday's winner (3-3) in a 10-2 win, pitching 6.0 innings with 9 hits, 2 runs and 5K/0BB. Armando Gabino picked up a 3.0 inning save (his first) with no hits, no runs and 3K/0BB.........Anthony Swarzak returned to get the start on Thursday in a 4-2 win over Columbus. Swarzak pitched 7.0 innings with 8 hits, 2 runs and 2K/2BB. Rob Delaney pitched 3.0 shutout innings of relief with 1 hit and 2K/2BB to pick up his second win in three decisions.

Kevin Mulvey has been the Red Wings most consistant starter this year. Mulvey has a 3-4 record with a 3.91ERA, 1.41WHIP and 62K/30BB in a team high 76.0 innings in 13 starts with one complete game shutout. Some thought that Armando Gabino was a surprise addition to the Twins 40-man roster last fall. Gabino has not disappointed as he has been one of the Wings best relievers all season with a 2.81ERA and 1.01WHIP in 21 games (41.2 innings) with a 3-1 record, 1 save and 28K/14BB. Rob Delaney has a 3.97ERA and 0.88WHIP in 11.1 innings with a 2-1 record and 10K/3BB. Delaney has allowed only 1 earned run in his last four appearances (8.1 innings) after giving up four runs in his second outing with the Wings.

Steve Tolleson continues to impress Rochester fans and Twins management , hitting .338/427/.481 in 77 at bats since his promotion last month. Tolleson also has 8 doubles, 1 home run and 14 runs scored. David Winfree continues to make a statement that he deserves a future role with the Twins. Winfree is hitting .333Average in his last ten games to bring his numbers up to .289/.311/.504 with a team high 19 doubles and 9 home runs. Winfree, who has 27 runs scored and 35 RBI, has only walked 8 times while striking out 48 times. The Twins have liked Matt Macri since drafting him in the seventeenth round of the 2001 draft (he went to Notre Dame rather than sign with the Twins). After hitting .324/.361/.441 in 34 at bats with the Twins and .259/.323/.466 in 313 at bats with the Red Wings last year, the Twins expected Macri to be a key part of this year's Red Wing lineup. Although he is hitting .294Average in his last ten games, Macri had been off to a dismal start this season, hitting .207/.283/.372 in 188 at bats.

New Britain Rock Cats (3-3, 35-31, 2nd place, -2.5 games)

The Rock Cats continued their battle this week, maintaining their second place standing.

The Cats beat Bowie last Saturday, 6-5, behind Carlos Gutierrez. Gutierrez pitched 5.0 innngs with 5 hits, 1 run and 0K/3BB. Anthony Slama pitched a shutout inning with no hits and 2K/0BB to pick up his fourth win in five decisions.........Gutierrez picked up his first AA loss on Thursday, 4-2, pitching only 4.0 innings with 7 hits, 4 runs and 3K/1BB.........Ryan Mullins lost his seventh game in ten decisions on Sunday, 5-2, pitching 4.1 innings with 6 hits, 4 runs (2 earned) and 2K/2BB.........Jay Rainville evened his record at 3-3 in Tuesday's 6-4 loss to Altoona. Rainville pitched only 4.0 innings with 11 hits, 6 runs and 2K/1BB.........Matt Fox was again excellent in Wednesday's 7-0 win, pitching 5.0 shutout innings with 3 hits and 3K/3BB.........Jeff Manship also made an excellent start in last night's 5-4 win, pitching 6.2 shutout innings with 3 hits and 3K/2BB to pick up his sixth win against four losses. Anthony Slama earned his fourteenth save by pitching 1.2 innings with 2 hits, 1 run and 3K/0BB.

Matt Fox is pitching better than any other starter on the Rock Cats staff, leading the rotation with a 6-2 record, 2.45ERA, 1.22WHIP and 54K/27BB in 13 games (12 starts) with 69.2 innings. Anthony Slama leads the organization with 14 saves in 31 games (36.2 innings) with a 4-1 record, 2.70ERA, 1.34WHIP and 53K/18BB. Alex Burnett has been solid since his recent promotion, with a 3.14ERA, 1.05WHIP and 12K/5BB in 8 games (14.1 innings).

Erik Lis had been in a bit of a slump earlier this month, however, is hitting .412 in his last ten games to get his numbers back to .299/.377/.426 in 197 at bats with 10 doubles and 5 home runs. Many consider Yancarlos Ortiz to be the top defensive shortstop in the organization. After a slow start, Ortiz is hitting .355Average in his last ten games to raise his numbers to .225/.308/.272 in 151 at bats with 14 runs scored and 16 RBI. Danny Valencia was 5 for 8 in his last two games and is now hitting .281/.370/.486 with 14 doubles, 4 triples, 7 home runs, 27 RBI with 30 walks and only 39 strikeouts in 210 at bats.

Ft. Myers Miracle (Hi-A) (3-3, 41-25, First Half Champions, +5.5 games)

The Miracle maintained their 5.5 game lead over Charlotte, clinching a spot in this year's playoffs on Thursday. With three games remaining in the first half, the Miracle host today's Florida State League All-Star game.

Last Saturday's rainout was made up as the first half of a Sunday doubleheader. Michael McCardell has been very good this year, but not on Sunday when he got only one out, allowing 4 hits, 8 runs (only 1 earned) and 0K/3BB in a 8-1 loss to pick up his fourth loss against seven wins.........McCardell returned in Thursday's 7-2 clinching win, pitching 5.0 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs and 5K/0BB. Santos Arias pitched 2.0 shutout innings with 2 hits and 3K/1BB to pick up his fourth win without a loss.........Steven Hirschfield made his third start of the season in a 4-1 win in the second half of Sunday's doubleheader. Hirschfield pitched 5.0 shutout innings with 2 hits and 4K/3BB to get his second win in three decisions. Spencer Steedley pitched a shutout relief inning with 1 hit and 1K/1BB, earning his second save.........David Bromberg was the starter against Dunedin in Monday's 2-1 loss, pitching 6.1 shutout innings with 3 hits and 5K/4BB. Blair Erickson got his second loss, pitching 0.2 inning with no hits, an unearned run and 1K/1BB.........Tyler Robertson was very good in Tuesday's 5-3 win, pitching 6.0 innings with 4 hits, 1 run and 5K/2BB to earn his fourth win against three losses. Kyle Waldrop pitched 2.0 shutout innings of relief to earn his third save.........Deolis Guerra lost his seventh game against four wins in Wednesday's 8-4 loss. Guerra pitched only 4.0 innings with 10 hits, 8 runs and 2k/2BB.

The Twins have decided that it is best that Kyle Waldrop remain in the bullpen as he works his way back from last season's major shoulder surgery. Waldrop, who has been used in multi inning outings, has a 3-2 record and excellent 3.09ERA in 20 games (35.0 innings) with 20K/7BB. Loek VanMil was said to have an injury similar to Pat Neshek when he missed last year's Olympics while with the Dutch National Team. He went through a rehab period which appears to have worked. The Miracle 8-4 loss Wednesday overshadowed his excellent outing as he pitched 4.0 shutout innings with 2 hits and 3K/2BB. VanMil has a perfect 0.00ERA, 0.83WHIP and 8K/4BB in 6 games (12.0 innings). With an opening on the New Britain staff, will Spencer Steedley get the call following this weekends all-star game? Steedley has a 4-0 record, 2 saves, 0.84ERA, 1.02WHIP and 31K/9BB in 25 games (32.1 innings).

Some were surprised when the Twins assigned D.J. Romero to Ft. Myers after missing much of last season to injuries at Beloit. The Twins told us what they think of this young third baseman (22) when they added him to their 40-man roster last fall. Romero was certainly challenged by the strong pitching in the FSL hitting only .257/.312/.343 in April and .163/.257/.217 in May. Romero appears to have continued to work to improve which is paying off with a .328/.385/.466 line this month, raising his numbers to .236/.307/.323 with a team high 13 doubles. Ben Revere will lead the Miracle representatives in today's all-star game as he is tied for the league's second best average (.325), fourth best OBP (.393), third most stolen bases (27 in 39 attempts), tied for second most at bats (240) and fourth most runs scored (36). Revere has also struck out only 22 times while taking 23 walks.

Beloit Snappers (A) (3-3, 26-41, 8th place/last, -13.5 games)

The Snappers have been playing better ball of late while getting solid performances from their starters. They also appear to be shuffling their roster as they look to the beginning of this season's second half when they will renew their goal of a spot in this year's playoffs.

Last Saturday the Snappers beat Burlington, 4-1, behind Daniel Osterbrock. Osterbrock pitched 6.1 innings with 6 hits, 1 run and 2K/1BB to pick up his fourth win against five losses. Joe Testa picked up his sixth save by pitching 2.2 shutout innings with 1 hit and 4K/1BB.........Osterbrock was very good in Thurdsday's 3-2 win over Quad Cities, pitching 7.0 innings with 6 hits, 2 runs and 7K/0BB. Matt Williams pitched 2.0 shutout, no-hit innings with 3K/0BB to pick up his first win in two decisons.........Bobby Lanigan had a short start in Sunday's 9-2 loss to Clinton, pitching 3.1 innings with 4 hits, 1 run and 6K/0BB. Stevin Blevins got his third loss against two wins, pitching 2.0 innings with 2 hits, 1 run and 1K/1BB.........Brad Tippett, who has been the Snapper Ace, was solid in Monday's 10-5 loss, pitching 6.0 innings with 5 hits, 3 runs (2 earned) and 6K/0BB. Curtis Leavitt picked up his first loss as he didn't get an out, allowing 3 hits, 4 runs and 0K/1BB.........Michael Tarsi made his second start in Tuesday's 2-1 win, pitching 7.0 shutout innings, 2 hits and 5K/0BB to pick up his second win in three decisions. All-Star Joe Testa pitched 1.2 shutout innings with no hits and 3K/2BB to pick up his team high seventh save.........Danny Berlind was the loser (2-7) in Wednesday's 4-1 loss. Berlind pitched 6.0 innings with 3 hits, 3 runs and 7K/2BB.

Michael Tarsi recently returned from EST to become one of the better pitchers on the Snappers staff. Tarsi, who led the MidWest League with three complete games last year, has a 2-1 record with a 2.13ERA, 0.99WHIP and 27K/9BB in 8 games (25.1 innings) with 2 starts. Joe Testa continues to make a statement for a promotion with a 0-1 record, 1.65ERA, 0.98WHIP and 58K/21BB in 24 games (43.2 innings). Danny Berlind's 2-7 record isn't reflective of his season which has actually been very good. Berlind has appeared in 15 games (8 starts) with a 3.99ERA, 1.19WHIP and 54K/20BB.

Juan Richardson was hitting .271/.317/.288 in 59 at bats prior to his promotion this week to Ft. Myers. Jon Waltenbury has had a solid first half, hitting .256/.316/.345 in 223 at bats with 9 doubles, 1 triple, 3 home runs, 23 RBI and is tied with Angel Morales with a team high 29 runs scored. Two years ago Ozzie Lewis was one of the top players on the Appy League championship Elizabethton Twins. He was injured much of last year, however, has rebounded with an excellent first half, hitting .301/.364/.444 with 11 doubles, 1 triple, 5 home runs adn 28 RBI.

DSL Twins (Dominican Summer League) (4-2, 11-7, 3rd place, -3.0 games)

The DSL Twins moved up a spot in the standings, picking up a game on the division leading White Sox.

Cesar Ciurcina started Tuesday's 6-3 win, however, allowed 3 runs (2 earned) in a 6.0 inning outing with 4K/1BB. Ciurcina now has a 0.90ERA, 0.50WHIP and 16K/1BB in 20.0 innings. Pedro Guerra has a perfect 0.00ERA in 19.0 innings including this week's 6.0 inning start when he allowed 3 hits and no runs with 4K/1BB to pick up his first win. Orlando Villaroel is a 19 year old reliever from Venezuela who has a 1-1 record, 0.84ERA, 1.50WHIP and 8K/2BB in 4 games (10.2 innings).

First Baseman Kelvin Silvania continues to swing a big bat, hitting .283/.371/.483 with 4 doubles, 1 triple, 2 home runs and 12RBI in 60 at bats. Yorby Martinez leads the team, hitting .340/.433/.360 in 50 at bats. Outfielder Romy Trinidad (18 yrs old) has 11 walks and 10 strikeouts in his first 52 at bats with 5 steals in 5 attempts, hitting .269/.415/.346.

Player of the Week

In the fifteenth round of the 2004 draft, the Twins drafted an athletic middle infielder from Boston who had limited amateur experience. Juan Portes went on to hit for a .327Average in 168 at bats for the GCL Twins. A talented athlete who has been searching for a position, Portes hit for averages of .287, .231 and .269 as he moved up a level each year. Portes repeated 2008 at Ft. Myers, hitting .270/.319/.395 in 456 at bats while being converted to an outfielder.

In what may have been a surprise move to some, the Twins rewarded Portes for his continued hard work with a promotion to New Britain this year. Portes has responded as the leading hitter on the Rock Cats roster, hitting .336/.401/.497 in 143 at bats with 13 doubles, 2 triples, 2 home runs, 21 RBI, 24 runs scored, 5 stolen bases in 7 attempts and 15 walks with only 18 strikeouts.

Portes was 8-19 (.421 Average) this week with 5 runs scored, 2 doubles, 1 triple, 2 RBI, 2 walks and 2 strikeouts. Hitting .424Average in his last ten games, Portes is playing at a level that matches his potential, a level which should merit future promotions.

Minor League Report...June 13, 2009

roger13 — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 12:11:02 -0000

Good morning, hopefully I will be able to get the entire report posted this week. The DSL Twins began play while I was gone a week ago. With a 4-2 record by the DSL Twins this week, the organization posted one of their best records of the year with 20 wins versus 13 losses.

Although there was lots of activity related to the annual draft, there wasn't a lot of player movement. Nick Punto was activated by the Twins who sent Alexi Casilla back to Rochester for the second time this season. Rochester placed Luke Hughes, who hadn't played in over a week, on the DL with a obligue muscle strain. Of note in this week's draft is that the Twins selected David Gutierrez (the younger brother of Carlos Gutierrez) out of the U of Miami in the 37th round. They also selected Aaron Senne (a Rochester, MN native) out of the U of Missouri in the 32nd round. They had previously drafted Senne in the 13th round of the 2006 draft.

Rochester Red Wings (AAA) (3-3, 29-30, 4th place, -6.0 games)

The Wings held their position behind Scranton/WB.

Bobby Keppel has pitched very well since joining the starting rotation. He was the loser in last Saturday's 3-2 loss, pitching 7.0 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs (2 earned) and 5K/0BB.........Keppel was again the loser last night, 2-1, pitching a complete game (8.0 innings) with 5 hits, 2 runs and 4K/1BB to drop his record to 2-3.........Philip Humber picked up his third loss in five decisions in Sunday's 11-4 loss. Humber pitched 5.0 innings with 5 hits, 6 runs and 5K/5BB.........Brian Duensing was sharp in Monday's 4-3, eleven inning win. Duensing pitched 8.0 innings with 4 hits, 3 runs and 5K/3BB. Rob Delaney picked up his first AAA win (1-1), pitching 3.0 shutout innings with no hits and 3K/0BB.........Jason Jones pitched 5.0 innings in Tuesday's 9-8, ten inning win. Jones allowed 10 hits, 7 runs (5 earned) with 0K/2BB. Juan Morillo picked up his third win in five decisions, pitching 2.0 perfect innings with 2 strikeouts.........I expect Kevin Mulvey is a leading candidate to be Jim Rantz' Player of the Week with his performance Thursday. Mulvey pitched a complete game shutout with 7 hits and 7K/1BB as he evened his record at 3-3.

Mulvey leads the Wings with 72.1 innings with a 3.61ERA, 1.31WHIP and 59K/28BB. Bobby Keppel has an excellent 2.36ERA with a 1.11WHIP in 22 games (2 starts) with 23K/13BB in 49.2 innings. Armando Gabino has been excellent out of the Wings pen with a 3.16ERA, 1.08WHIP and 22K/14BB in 37.0 innings. Juan Morillo has a very good 3.22ERA, 1.21WHIP and 31K/15BB in 22.1 innings.

Steve Tolleson has an excellent .340/.456/.489 in 47 at bats since his recent promotion. David Winfree is hitting .333Average in his last ten games as his average is up to .279/.303/.495 in 208 at bats with a team high 9 home runs and 14 doubles. Trevor Plouffe is hitting .245/.299/.377 in 204 at bats while catcher Drew Butera is hitting .236/.312/.268 in 123 at bats.

New Britain Rock Cats (AA) (4-2, 32-28, 2nd place, -2.5 games)

The Cats remain 2.5 games behind Connecticut, however, moved up a spot to second place. They continue to battle back from their slow start behind a solid starting rotation.

Cole DeVries wasn't as sharp in last Saturday's 8-3 loss, pitching 5.0 innings with 8 hits, 5 runs (4 earned) and 5K/4BB. DeVries picked up his fifth loss against four wins.........DeVries pitched only 4.0 innings in Thursday's 7-3 win with 9 hits, 3 runs and 3K/1BB. Yohan Pino got his first win in two decisions, pitching 3.0 perfect innings with 2K/0BB. Jose Lugo also pitched 2.0 shutout innings with 1 hit and 2K/1BB to earn his second save.........Carlos Gutierrez made his first start, getting his first win last Sunday, 11-7. Gutierrez pitched 5.0 innings with 7 hits, 5 runs and 3K/2BB. Frank Mata pitched 0.1 perfect inning to earn his second save.........Jeff Manship had another excellent start in Tuesday's 7-2 win. Manship improved his record to 5-4, pitching 7.0 innings with 5 hits, 2 runs and 4K/2BB.........Jay Rainville was even better in Wednesday's 3-2 win, pitching 5.2 innings with 5 hits, 1 run and 3K/2BB as he picked up his third win in five decisions.........Matt Fox was excellent in last night's 2-1 loss, pitching 7.0 innings with 4 hits, 1 run and 6K/1BB. Alex Burnett picked up his first AA loss, pitching 2.0 innings with 3 hits, 1 run and 0K/1BB.

Jeff Manship leads the staff with 69.0 innings. Manship has a 4.70ERA with 42K/18BB. Matt Fox leads the starters with a 2.64ERA, 1.22WHIP and 51K/24BB in 64.2 innings for a team best 5-2 record. Cole DeVries has an excellent 3.27ERA with a 4-5 record and 41K/20BB in 66.0 innings. Yohan Pino has a 4.67ERA in 24 games (34.2 innings) with 36K/10BB. Anthony Slama has a 2.73ERA, 3-1 record, 13 saves and 48K/18BB in 33.0 innings.

Wilson Ramos is back with the Cats, hitting .400 in his last ten games with two home runs. With his hot return, he has his average up to .308/.326/.444 in 133 at bats with 9 doubles, 3 home runs and 18 RBI. Ramos was 10 for 22 (.454Average) this week and is another leading candidate for the Twins Player of the Week. Whit Robbins continues to make a statement that he has a future with the Twins, hitting .340/.417/.536 in 194 at bats with 7 home runs and 29 RBI. Danny Valencia has been in a slump of late as his average dropped to .276/.376/.481 in 185 at bats. Juan Portes has also made a statement following his promotion this season, hitting .323/.386/.476 in 124 at bats. Brian Dinkelman is hitting .313/.408/.455 with 15 doubles and a team high 34 RBI in 198 at bats.

Ft. Myers Miracle (Hi-A) (4-3, 38-22, 1st place, +5.5 games)

The Miracle remained in first place, losing one game of their lead over Charlotte.

Tyler Robertson reminded us of the pitcher he was last year in Saturday's 1-0 win, pitching 7.0 shutout innings with 8 hits and 4K/2BB. Henry Arias picked up the win (1-1), pitching 2.0 shutout innings with 2 hits and 4K/0BB.........Robertson returned in Thursday's 6-4 loss, pitching 5.0 innings with 10 hits, 6 runs (5 earned) and 4K/1BB to even his record at 3-3.........Michael McCardell was also very good in Sunday's 2-1 win, pitching 6.0 innings with 4 hits, 1 run and 3K/2BB to get his seventh win against three losses. Kyle Waldrop pitched a perfect inning with 1K/0BB to earn his second save.........Glen Perkins made a rehab start in Tuesday's 4-0 win, pitching 7.0 shutout innings with 2 hits and 4K/1BB.........David Bromberg was solid on Wednesday, pitching 6.0 innings with 10 hits, 4 runs and 7K/0BB. Henry Arias picked up his second loss as the Miracle lost 5-4. Arias pitched 2.0 innings with 1 hit, 1 run and 1K/0BB.........Deolis Guerra got his sixth loss in ten decisions in last night's 6-1 loss. Guerra pitched only 4.0 innings with 6 hits, 6 runs (3 earned) and 7K/3BB.

David Bromberg leads the staff with a 2.44ERA in 62.2 innings with 57K/29BB. Delois Guerra leads the staff with 63.1 innings with a 4.41ERA. Michael McCardell has a 3.73ERA, 1.05WHIP and 50K/11BB in 62.2 innings. Steven Hirschfield has a 1-1 record in 17 games (2 starts) with a 1.99ERA, 0.88WHIP and 22K/8BB in 31.2 innings. Blair Erickson has 7 saves in 14 games (18.1 innings) with a 2.95ERA and 26K/9BB. Loek Van Mil has appeared in 5 games (8.0 innings) with a 0.00ERA, 0.75WHIP and 5K/2BB.

Ben Revere is hitting .317/.381/.371 with 25 RBI, 34 runs scored and 26 stolen bases in 36 attempts. Rene Leveret is hitting .315/.404/.425 in 127 at bats. Chris Parmalee had two home runs this week as he leads the Miracle with 8 home runs and 32 RBI while hitting .258/.342/.446. All-Star catcher Danny Lehmann is hitting .299/.364/.388 in 67 at bats.

Beloit Snappers (A) (5-2, 23-37, 8th place, -14.0 games)

Following their best week of the season, the Snappers remained in last place behind Kane County. Hopefully a couple of the college pitchers the Twins drafted this week will quickly make their way to Beloit to give them a chance to compete for the second half title.

Danny Berlind picked up his sixth loss in seven decisions in the first game of Sunday's doubleheader that Beloit lost, 2-1. Berlind pitched 6.0 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs and 5K/3BB.........Berlind earned his second win last night, 10-5. He pitched 7.0 innings with 4 hits, 5 runs (3 earned) and 2K/2BB.........Danny Osterbrock earned his third win against five losses in the second half of Sunday's double header, as Beloit won 4-1. Osterbrock pitched a 7.0 inning complete game with 4 hits, 1 run and 6K/0BB.........Bobby Lanigan pitched 4.2 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs and 6K/1BB in Monday's 7-5 win. Michael Tarsi pitched 1.1 inning with 2 hits, 2 runs and 1K/0BB to earn the win.........Brad Tippett was very good, however, got his third loss in Tuesday's 3-1 loss. Tippett pitched 6.0 innings with 5 hits, only 2 runs and 9K/1BB.........Michael Allen was solid in Wednesday's 4-2 win, pitching 4.1 innings with 6 hits, 1 unearned run and 5K/2BB. Blake Martin pitched 2.0 shutout innings of relief with 1K/2BB to earn his first win. Joe Testa pitched 2.2 innings with 2 hits, 1 run and 3K/1BB to pick up his fifth save.........Michael Tarsi made his first start in Thursday's 4-1 loss. Tarsi pitched 5.1 shutout innings with 3 hits and 7K/1BB. Danny Rondon got his fourth loss in six decisions, pitching 1.0 inning with 6 hits, 3 runs and 0K/0BB.........Curtis Leavitt made a spot start in the other half of Thursday's double header that the Snappers won, 4-3. He pitched 3.0 innings with 3 hits, 3 runs and 3K/2BB. Bruce Pugh picked up his second win in three decisions, pitching 2.0 shutout innings with 1 hit and 4K/0BB. Steven Blevins picked up his first save by also pitching 2.0 shutout innings with 1 hit.

Brad Tippett is the Ace of the staff with a 3.17ERA, 1.09WHIP and 5-3 record in 10 games (59.2 innings) with 50K/11BB. Danny Berlind has a very good 3.93ERA in 14 games (7 starts) with 47K/18BB in 52.2 innings. Since moving back to the Snappers, closer Matt Williams has earned 4 saves to go with a 1.52ERA and 20K/11BB in 23.2 innings. Michael Tarsi has a 2.95ERA in 18.1 innings with 22K/9BB.

Ramon Santana continues to lead the Snappers with a .343/.441/.545 in 143 at bats with 5 home runs. Michael Harrington is hitting .242/.289/.407 in 182 at bats with a team high 19 doubles. Angel Morales leads the team with 6 home runs, while hitting .226/.293/.398 in 186 at bats. Hitting .361Average in his last ten games, Ozzie Lewis has his average up to .298/.368/.449 in 178 at bats.

DSL Twins (Dominican Summer League) (4-2, 7-5, 4th place, -4.0 games)

The DSL Twins are back in action with several outstanding young prospects who will move up to the GCL Twins next spring.

Seventeen year old Francisco Nunez is off to an excellent start as he is 2-0 in 3 games (9.2 innings) with a 2.79ERA and 13K/3BB. Pedro Guerra (19 year old) was one of the DSL Twins top starters last year, 8-2, 2.45ERA and 75K/12BB in 84.1 innings. Guerra has started three games with a 0.00ERA in 13.0 innings with an amazing 20K/3BB. Eddy Santana is a 21 year old reliever who has 4 saves in 6 appearances with a 5.79ERA and 11K/1BB in 9.1 innings. Santana missed all of last season following a 2007 season in which he had a 2.27ERA in 47.2 innings with 30K/12BB. Renzo Reverol also has a 0.00ERA in 3 games (1 start) with 7K/1BB in 10.0 innings. Reverol is an 18 year old right hander who had a 4-2 record last year with a 3.00ERA in 30.0 innings with 34K/12BB.

Candido Pimentel (an 18 year old rookie) is hitting .333/.385/.667 with a home run in 12 at bats. Romy Trinidad is also an 18 year old rookie from Santo Domingo. Trinidad is hitting .289/.413/.368 with 3 stolen bases in 3 attempts. A third 18 year old rookie, Kevin Silvania appears to be a left handed power hitting first baseman. Silvania is hitting .278/.366/.528 in 36 at bats with 2 home runs and 8 RBI.

Player of the Week

Last year, Venezuela native Cesar Ciurcina was a right handed starter for the DSL Twins. Ciurcina, who started 8 games in 11 appearances, had a successful season for a 17 year old with a 3-2 record, 3.68ERA, 1.23WHIP and 35K/10BB in 44.0 innings.

This season Ciurcina is off to a nearly perfect start with a 0.00ERA in 14.0 innings with only 4 hits and 12K/0BB. On Wednesday, Ciurcina made his second start of the season against the DSL Orioles. He pitched 7.0 shutout innings with only 1 hit and 10K/0BB. That type of dominating start is worthy of recognition as this week's Player of the Week. If he continues to pitch as he has the first two weeks of the season, Ciurcina will be another player that we will hear a lot about when he moves up to the GCL Twins next season.

A look at the last ten drafts

roger13 — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 21:53:48 -0000

A review of how the last ten drafts have panned out for the Twins. Which draft was the best and how many players from each draft made it to the major leagues?

I have maintained data on the last ten drafts. I have also created a rating system to help compare the drafts. The system is a simple point system with 1 point assigned to a player who reaches AA ball; 2 points for AAA; 3 points if added to the 40-man roster; 4 points if a player plays even one game in the major leagues; 6 points for a major league reserve; 8 points for a starter; 10 points for a major league star, closer, #1 or #2 starter; and 12 points for an all-star. Players are included even if they maximized their careers with another organization.

The Twins signed 15 players from the 1999 draft, with seven making it to the major leagues. Their top pick was B.J. Garbe, who earned a point by making it to AA. The seven players making it to the major leagues, round taken and points earned were: Rob Bowen (2nd round/6pts), Justin Morneau (3rd/12 pts), Brian Wolfe (6th/4 pts), Kevin West (16th/4 pts), Travis Bowyer (20th/4 pts), Willie Eyre (23rd/6 pts), and Terry Tiffee (26th/4 pts). Other players earning points from the 1999 draft were Ed Schoening (5th/2 pts), Matt Scanlon (8th/1 pt) and Digno Torres (37th/1 pt). The draft earned a total of 45 points for a 3.00 average per player selected.

In 2000, the Twins signed 21 players, with four making it to the major leagues. Their top pick was Adam Johnson, who earned three points by making the 40-man roster. Their second round pick, J.D. Durbin is one of the four major leaguers with 6 points. The other three are Jason Miller (4th/4 pts), Josh Rabe (11th/4 pts), and Jason Kubel (12th/8 pts). Nine others contributed points with two, Beau Kemp and Colby Miller making the 40-man roster. The draft earned a total of 40 points for a 1.90 average.

The 2001 draft was headed by Joe Mauer who earned the maximum 12 points. The second round pick, Scott Tyler earned 2 points by making it to AAA and was of value to the Twins as part of a trade. This draft also yielded four players that made it to the major leagues, including Jose Morales (3rd/4 pts), Kevin Cameron (13th/6 pts), and Nick Blackburn (29th/8 pts). Nine others earned points including two who made it onto 40-man rosters, Angel Garcia (2nd/3 pts) and Garrett Guzman (10th/3 pts). The draft earned a total of 48 points for a 1.45 average based on the high number of players signed, 33.

The 2002 draft included three players that have been important contributors to the Twins. Denard Span was the first round pick, earning 8 points. Jesse Crain was the second round pick, also with 8 points. Pat Neshek was the sixth round pick, also earning 8 points. Only fifteenth round pick Adam Harden made it to anyone's 40-man roster with another seven players contributing from this draft which included 22 players signed. The one player who still could contribute is 49th round pick Brock Peterson who is currently at Rochester, but as of today the draft yielded a total of 39 points for a 1.77 average.

The 2003 draft must be viewed as the most disappointing in the past ten years. The Twins signed 30 picks with only two making it to the major leagues. Scott Baker was their second round pick, earning 10 points. The other player making a major league team was Lavale Speigner, their 14th round pick who contributed 4 points. Their first round pick was Matt Moses who has contributed two points and is running out of time back at New Britain. One player who still could help this draft is thirteenth round pick David Winfree who is currently at Rochester. The draft included 30 players who were signed, earning a total of 22 points for a 0.73 average.

In 2004 the Twins signed 30 picks, led by Trevor Plouffe who has earned 3 points as a member of the 40-man roster. They had three first round picks and two supplemental round picks. Glen Perkins was the second first round pick, contributing 8 points. Recent callup Anthony Swarzak has earned 4 points. Plouffe, Swarzak and Kyle Waldrop, Matt Fox, Jay Rainville and Juan Portes all still have time to make substantial contributions to this draft. The only other player to make it to the major leagues as of today was sixteenth round pick Matt Tolbert (6 points). The draft has earned a total of 31 points for a 1.03 average.

The 2005 draft is the last draft I will review as more recent drafts haven't had time for players taken in those years to develop. The 2005 draft includes two pitchers who have made it to the major leagues. Matt Garza was their first round selection, earning 10 points as one of Tampa Bay's top starters. The Twins second second round pick was Kevin Slowey who has earned 8 points as a valued member of the Twins starting rotation. Brian Duensing (3rd/3 pts) and Steve Tolleson (5th/3 pts) are members of the Twins 40-man roster. Duensing, Tolleson, Erik Lis and Ryan Mullins all could develop into players who will contribute to the Twins in the future. There is also a strong probability that 36th round pick, Rene Tosoni could develop into a star which would significantly change how this draft is viewed. The Twins signed a total of 23 players who have earned 29 points as of today for a 1.26 average.

Which was the best draft of the last decade? With seven (only Justin Morneau is with the Twins) of fifteen players signed in 1999 making it to the major leagues, one would almost have to choose that year. Yet, the 2001 draft has earned the most points (48), including two valuable members of the Twins plus Jose Morales who appears to have a good future. One can also make an argument for 2004 which included three current Twins with another five who could be valuable members of future Twins teams.

Minor League Report...June 6, 2009

roger13 — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 03:13:45 -0000

I am in Denver on vacation, so this week's report will be brief. The organization finished the week as their third straight week under .500 with 12 wins and 15 losses. Ft. Myers had a winning week at 4-3 with New Britain leading the way with a 5-2 week. Beloit was winless in six games.

Last Sunday Jim Rantz named Ft. Myers centerfielder Ben Revere as the organization's Player of the week. The Rock Cats activated catcher Wilson Ramos with Dan Lehmann moving back to Ft. Myers. Rochester third baseman Luke Hughes hasn't played in over a week, however, has not been placed on the disabled list. The Twins promoted short reliever Rob Delaney to Rochester after Mike Gosling exercised an out clause in his contract. Alex Burnett, who is being groomed in a short relief/closer role, moved up to New Britain along with starter Carlos Gutierrez. Nick Papason, who was in EST with an injury, incurred another injury and has called it quits. That is very unfortunate because he was a young man with a lot of talent. The only Beloit Snapper on the MidWest All-Star team is left handed reliever Joe Testa. The Florida State League All-Star game will be hosted by the division leading Miracle who will be represented by Manager Jeff Smith, his entire coaching staff and eight players (Danny Lehmann, Steve Singleton, Chris Cates, Chris Parmalee, Ben Revere, David Bromberg, Spencer Steedley and Carlos Gutierrez who will not play because he was promoted to New Britain).

Rochester Red Wings (AAA) (3-4, 26-27, 4th place, -6.0 games out)

Although the Wings dropped a spot in the standings, they actually picked up a game on the division leading Scranton/WB Yankees.

Justin Jones had a solid start in last Saturday's 6-3 win, pitching 5.2 innings with 6 hits, 4 runs (1 earned) and 4K/1BB to get his first win..........Jones wasn't good in Thursday's 12-5 loss, lasting only 3.0 innings with 11 hits, 8 runs (7 earned) and 0K/2BB to pick up his fifth loss. Rob Delaney made his first appearance in AAA, pitching 1.0 shutout inning with no hits and 0K/1BB.......Kevin Mulvey was the loser on Sunday, 5-1, pitching 7.0 innings with 9 hits, 5 runs and 6K/1BB.........Mulvey pitched 6.0 innings tonight with 5 hits, 4 runs (3 earned) and 6K/6BB in the Wings 9-6 loss. Rob Delaney picked up a blown save and his first AAA loss, pitching 2.0 innings iwth 4 hits, 4 runs and 2K/0BB.........Philip Humber pitched what may have been his best game of the year in Tuesday's 5-4 win, pitching 7.0 innings iwth 5 hits, 2 runs and 3K/0BB. Armando Gabino pitched 1.0 shutout inning with 1 hit and 0K/0BB to pick up his third win in four decisions.

Steve Tolleson is hitting .316/.435/.579 with 2 doubles and a home run in his first six games, 19 at bats. David Winfree is hitting .306 Average with 3 home runs in his last 10 games. Winfree is hitting .264/.277/.500 with 9 home runs this spring.

New Britain Rock Cats (AA) (5-2, 28-26, 3rd place, -2.5 games out)

The Rock Cats picked up 1.5 games on division leading Trenton this week and are treating New Britain fans to the best baseball they have seen in several years. After a rough start this spring, the Rock Cat starters are pitching good baseball with a lineup that includes several of the best hitting prospects in the organization.

Jay Rainville pitched 5.2 innings with 7 hits, 5 runs and 1K/2BB to even his record at 2-2 in last Saturday's 6-5 win. Anthony Slama picked up his tenth save with 1.0 shutout inning with 1 hits and 1K/0BB.........Rainville didn't get a decision in Thursday's 8-4 loss when he pitched 4.2 innings with 7 hits, 4 runs and 3K/1BB. Zach Ward allowed 3 hits and 2 runs in 1.1 inning to get his second loss in four decisions.......Ryan Mullins wasn't as sharp as he has been on Sunday, but he didn't have to be as the Cats scored 15 runs. Mullins allowed 5 runs and 7 hits in 6.0 innings with 5K/3BB to get his third win.........Mullins was better in tonight's 3-2 loss, pitching 5.2 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs and 8K/3BB. Anthony Slama pitched 1.1 innings with 3 hits, 1 run and 3K/3BB to get his first loss of the season against three wins.........Matt Fox had another very good start on Tuesday as the Cats beat Connecticut 2-1. Fox pitched 6.2 innings with 4 hits, 1 run and 3K/1BB to get his fifth win against two losses. Slama picked up his eleventh save by pitching 1.2 shutout innings with 3 hits and 2K/0BB.........Jeff Manship pitched what may have been his best game of the year on Wednesday with the Cats winning 2-1. Manship pitched 6.1 innings iwth 5 hits, 1 run and 4K/1BB. Jose Lugo got his third win by pitching a perfect inning with 2K/0BB. Slama was also perfect with 1K/0BB in 1.0 inning to pick up his twelfth save.

Wilson Ramos returned to the potent Rock Cat lineup this week, going 6-18 and is hitting .279/.296/.351. Rene Tosoni continues to reward the Twins for pushing him to New Britain by hitting his team leading seventh and eighth home runs last weekend as he has his average up to the .260's after a brutal first month in AA.

Ft. Myers Miracle (Hi-A) (4-3, 34-19, 1st place, +6.5 games)

Minor League Report...May 30, 2009

roger13 — Sat, 30 May 2009 12:25:02 -0000

Good morning! By winning three of four last night, the four full-season teams finished another week at a game under .500 with a 13-14 record. Only Ft. Myers was over .500 at 4-2. The other three clubs were all 3-4.

Last Sunday Jim Rantz named Ft. Myers pitcher Michael McCardell as the organization's Player of the Week. Adan Severino was placed on Beloit's DL with bone spurs. Juan Richardson moved from the Ft. Myers disabled list to Beloit as a replacement. Loek Van Mil joined the Ft. Myers bullpen from EST. Last night the Twins placed Nick Punto on the disabled list and called up Alexi Casilla. There have been reports that Casilla will get the starters job at second with Harris at short and Tolbert as a back up for both. My Player of the Week last week, Steve Tolleson, got his promotion to Rochester to replace Casilla.

Rochester Red Wings (AAA) (3-4, 23-23, 3rd place, -7.0 out)

The Wings dropped back to .500, losing another game to the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees who they now trail by 7.0 games.

Philip Humber got the start in Saturday's 5-4 loss to Norfolk. Humber pitched 5.0 innings with 4 hits, 4 runs and 4K/4BB. Ben Hendrickson made his first appearance for the Wings, pitching a perfect inning. Bobby Keppel pitched 3.2 innings with 4 hits, 1 unearned run and 2K/1BB to get the loss and is now 1-1.........Humber got his second loss (1-2) in Thursday's loss versus Durham, 8-7. Humber pitched 4.0 innings with 8 hits, 4 runs and 4K/4BB.........Brian Duensing evened his record at 3-3 in Sunday's 6-2 win. Brian had his best start of the year as he pitched 7.0 shutout innings with 7 hits and 5K/0BB.........Brian was again effective last night in a 5-3 win at Lehigh Valley. He pitched 7.0 innings with 10 hits, 3 runs and 3K/1BB. Mike Gosling got his seventh win in eight decisions, pitching 2.0 no-hit, shutout innings with 3K/0BB.........Jason Jones had one of his better starts in the opening 3-2 loss to Durham. Jones pitched 6.0 innings with 8 hits, 2 runs and 3K/0BB. Juan Morillo picked up his second loss in four decisions, pitching 2.0 innings with 2 hits, 1 run and 2K/2BB.........Kevin Mulvey was also sharp in Tuesday's 5-2 win, pitching 7.0 innings with 6 hits, 2 runs and 6K/1BB. Mike Gosling picked up his sixth win, pitching 2.0 no-hit, shutout innings with 4K/1BB.........Reid Santos has been starting since replacing Anthony Swarzak in the rotation. Santos got his second loss in two decisions in Wednesday's 13-2 loss. Santos pitched 4.0 innings with 5 hits, 3 runs and 5K/1BB.

MIke Gosling certainly has been in the right place at the right time, picking up nearly a third of the Wings wins at 7-1. Yes, that is the most wins of any pitcher in the organization. Gosling has appeared in 19 games (32.0 innings) with a 4.22ERA and 39K/15BB. After beginning his season with a 7.88ERA in two games in April (8.0 innings), Brian Duensing has been pitching better this month with a 3.25ERA in 6 games (36.0 innings). Duensing has a 4.09ERA in 8 starts (44.0 innings) with 24K/10BB. With Sean Henn and Anthony Swarzak up with the Twins, Bobby Keppel has the best ERA on the staff, 2.67, in 30.1 innings with 13K/12BB. Philip Humber rarely pitches beyond the fourth or fifth innings while accumulating a 6.52ERA in 7 games (29.0 innings) with 23K/16BB.

Matt Macri may be hitting only .199/.284/.362, but his fourth home run (with two men on) in the top of the ninth gave the Wings a big win last night. Justin Huber was 6-24 this week with a double and his fourth home run. Huber is hitting .291/.370/.473 with 20 RBI. Dustin Martin is tied for the organization lead with 31 runs scored with a team high 14 stolen bases in 15 attempts. Martin, who is hitting .272/.333/.355 in 169 at bats, appears to be someone who can play a role with the Twins in the future. David Winfree has been hitting better than any year since 2005 when he was the Twins Player of the Year. Winfree leads the organization with 7 home runs while hitting .267/.278/.491 in 165 at bats with 23 RBI. Alexi Casilla hit .316/.353/.391 in 79 at bats while with the Red Wings. Casilla stole 6 bases in 10 attempts while striking out 12 times with 5 walks.

New Britain Rock Cats (AA) (3-4, 23-24, Tied/3rd place, -4.0 games out)

Following an offensive thrust that had them hitting better than any team in the Eastern League, the Rock Cat bats went silent on Monday as they scored only 1 run in three of their last four games. The Cats are now tied for third, dropping another game behind division leading Connecticut.

The Rock Cats beat Binghamton last Saturday, 7-5, behind Matt Fox who pitched 5.1 shutout innings with 6 hits and 3K/3BB.........Fox repeated that sterling performance in Thursday's 7-2 win over Trenton, pitching 7.0 shutout innings with 5 hits and 3K/0BB.........Jeff Manship was more like the pitcher we got to know last year at Ft. Myers in Sunday's 10-1 win. He pitched 8.0 innings with 4 hits, 1 run and 4K/0BB to pick up his fourth win (4-3).........Manship was again solid in last night's 6-0 loss to Binghamton. He pitched 7.0 innings with 8 hits, 3 runs and 1K/1BB to even his record at 4-4.........Jay Rainville was very good in Monday's 5-4, eleven inning loss. Rainville pitched 6.0 shutout innings with 3 hits and 4K/3BB. Zach Ward pitched 1.1 innings with 4 hits, 3 runs (2 earned) and 1K/3BB to get his first loss of the season (2-1).........Ryan Mullins had been very good his last couple times out, but not in Tuesday's 11-0 loss to Trenton. Mullins pitched 4.2 innings with 13 hits, 6 runs (4 earned) and 4K/2BB. The loss dropped his record to 2-6.........Cole DeVries was back on track in Wednesday's 5-1 loss, pitching 5.0 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs and 3K/3BB, getting his fourth loss (3-4).

Jeff Manship has a 5.34ERA in 10 games (a team high 55.2 innings) with 34K/15BB. Cole DeVries has an excellent 3.12ERA in 49.0 innings with 32K/17BB. Anthony Slama leads the organization with 9 saves, however, he had a rough week with 8 hits and 5 runs in 3 games (2.2 innings). Slama has a 3.12ERA in 22 appearances (26.0 innings) with 40K/15BB. Rob Delaney gave up a run and 3 hits in 3.1 innings this week and now has a 2.12ERA and 1.09WHIP in 34.0 innings with 36K/6BB. Yohan Pino has appeared in 19 games this season (26.2 innings) with a 5.40ERA and 30K/7BB.

Steve Tolleson was 7-19 this week and was hitting .258/.343/.391 in 151 at bats with 10 doubles, 2 triples, 2 home runs, 21 runs scored and 13RBI when he got the call yesterday to move up to Rochester. He had 16 walks, 20 strikeouts and was hitting .315/.407/.511 in 92 at bats in May following his slow start in April. Danny Valencia is also hitting like someone who deserves a promotion, .314/.410/.547 in 137 at bats with 22 walks and 27 strikeouts. Whit Robbins was 9-26 this week and is hitting .313/.386/.513 in 150 at bats. Brian Dinkelman was 7-20 and leads the Rock Cats at .338/.421/.487 while also leading the organization with 30 RBI. Dinkelman is another player who the Twins must consider in their future plans.

Ft. Myers Miracle (Hi-A) (4-2, 30-16, 1st place, +6.5 games)

The Miracle stretched their lead over Charlotte and Jupiter another 3 games this week. As the end of the first half of the FSL season approaches, the Miracle is in great shape for earning a second trip to the playoffs.

The Miracle got their week off on the right track behind a great outing by Deolis Guerra, who pitched 7.0 innings with 6 hits, 1 run and 1K/1BB in a 2-1 win over Charlotte as he picked up his third win in seven decisions. Henry Arias earned his second save, pitching 2.0 shutout innings with 2 hits and 2K/1BB.........Guerra was even better last night in a 3-0 win over Tampa. Guerra pitched 6.0 shutout innings with 5 hits and 1K/0BB to even his record at 4-4. Alex Burnett earned his fourth save, pitching 1.0 shutout inning with 1 hit and 0K/0BB.........David Bromberg was equally strong in Sunday's 3-2 win, pitching 5.0 innings with 3 hits, 1 unearned run and 3K/1BB to get his fourth win without a loss. Santos Arias picked up his second save, pitching 2.0 shutout innings with 1 hit and 1K/0BB.........Tyler Robertson picked up his second loss (2-2) in Tuesday's 3-1, seven inning loss to Tampa. Robertson pitched 6.0 innings with 9 hits, 3 runs and 3K/2BB.........Michael McCardell, who was the Twins Player of the Week last week, was again very good in Wednesday's 8-0 win. McCardell allowed 4 hits in 7.0 shutout innings with 3K/0BB to earn his sixth win (6-2).........Carlos Gutierrez allowed 7 runs in 3.2 innings on Thursday, although only 1 was earned. Unfortunately, Gutierrez committed two errors himself while allowing 5 walks as the Miracle lost 8-3 with Gutierrez getting his second loss in four decisions.

David Bromberg has been very good as he has compiled a 2.00ERA and 1.18WHIP in 9 games (45.0 innings) with a perfect 4-0 record. The only surprise is that the pitcher who led all of minor league baseball in strikeouts last year, has only 30 strikeouts this year with 22 walks. This week Deolis Guerra was pitching his best baseball since joining the Twins a year and a half ago in the Santana trade. Guerra leads the staff with 52.1 innings with 33K/14BB and a 4.47ERA. Michael McCardell has a 3.63ERA and 1.02WHIP in 52.0 innings with 45K/9BB. McCardell had a perfect 4-0 record in May with a 2.90ERA and 29K/6BB in 31.0 innings. The Miracle have used several pitchers late in games, including Santos Arias who has a 2.57ERA, 1.29WHIP and 14K/6BB in 21.0 innings with 2 saves.

Ben Revere, who was 11-22 this week, continues to be one of the most exciting players in the FSL. He leads the league in hitting at .347/.408/.405 in 173 at bats and is third (first in the organization) in stolen bases with 21 steals in 31 attempts. Revere also leads the organization in hits (60) and runs scored (31). Yet, Revere isn't the top hitter on the team, that is Rene Leveret who is hitting .360/.476/.500 in 86 at bats which aren't enough to qualify for the league lead. Chris Parmalee leads the team with 5 home runs and 27 RBI. More important, he has raised his average to .267 by hitting .318/.404/.459 in 85 at bats in May. Deibinson Romero is considered to be one of the top prospects in the organization. After a great start, he has struggled of late and is hitting only .201/.277/.266 in 154 at bats while leading the Miracle with 10 doubles.

Beloit Snappers (A) (3-4, 18-29, 8th place, -10.5 games out)

The Snappers dropped another game and now trail Kane County by 10.5 games.

Bobby Lanigan wasn't sharp in last Saturday's 9-1 loss to Wisconsin. He pitched 4.2 innings with 10 hits, 7 runs and 4K/2BB to pick up his third loss in seven decisions.........Lanigan responded with his best start of the season as the Snappers beat South Bend Thursday, 4-2. Lanigan pitched 7.0 shutout innings with 2 hits and 5K/2BB, improving his record to 5-3. Joe Testa came on to get the last out with one strikeout and two walks to earn his third save.........Joe Testa made a surprise start on Sunday, pitching 3.0 shutout innings with 1 hit and 4K/0BB. Brad Tippett came on in relief to pitch 6.0 shutout innings with 1 hit and 5K/1BB to pick up his fourth win in five decisions.........Tippett returned to his normal starting spot last night and was again very good as the Snappers' bats came alive in a 15-2 win over division leading Kane County. Tippett pitched 6.0 innings with 5 hits, 1 run and 7K/0BB as he picked up his fifth win.........Michael Allen had a solid start in Monday's 7-4 loss as he lost his sixth start without a win. Allen pitched 5.0 innings with 4 runs (2 earned) and 3K/5BB.........Danny Berlind has been very good since he moved into the starting rotation. He was the loser (1-4) in a rain shortened 4-1 loss against South Bend on Tuesday, pitching 4.0 innings with 3 hits, 3 runs (2 earned) and 7K/4BB.........Daniel Osterbrock was very good in Wednesday's 3-2, fifteen inning loss. He pitched 8.0 innings with 7 hits, 2 runs and 8K/0BB. Michael Tarsi came on in the fourteenth to pitch 1.2 innings with 2 hits, 1 run and 1K/2BB as he picked up his first loss since recently joining the Snappers from EST.

Joe Testa has been one of the brightest stars in the organization this season as he has compiled a 1.62ERA and 0.99WHIP in 18 games (33.1 innings). Testa is tied with the Miracle's Michael McCardell for the organization lead with 45 strikeouts compared with 17 walks. Brad Tippett has been the one starter who can be counted on every outing, compiling a 2.79ERA and 1.03WHIP in 9 games (48.1 innings) with a 5-1 record and 37K/8BB. Daniel Berlind has a 3.67ERA in 34.1 innings with 35K/10BB. Matt Williams has a team high 4 saves and 1.89ERA in 14 appearances (19.0 innings) with 16K/8BB. After a first few games that were disasters, Steve Blevins had a 3.00ERA in 9 games in May (15.1 innings) with 14K/5BB to lower his ERA to 4.61.

We don't know if another move is in the works with an infielder moving up to New Britain from Ft. Myers. If there is, Ramon Santana certainly is deserving of a promotion to the Miracle. With 99 at bats, Santana doesn't qualify for the league leadership, but his .374/.456/.586 would currently rank second and is the highest of any player in the organization. Michael Harrington is hitting only .218/.273/.361, however, his 17 doubles leads the organization with five more than David Winfree who is second with 12. Angel Morales hit .258/.342/.454 in 97 at bats in May, including 10 extra base hits (5 doubles, 1 triple and 4 home runs). Morales is tied for the Snapper lead with 5 home runs. Catcher Alex Soto is another catcher that fans need to keep an eye on. He also has 5 home runs in only 92 at bats while hitting .261/.343/.467. James Beresford began this season with the Australian team in the WBC where he was 2-4 versus Cuba. This young 20 year old is quietly having an excellent season, hitting .314/.390/.331 in 121 at bats.

I will be on vacation next week, thus, my report will be brief. With the draft the following week, my report will include a review of how the Twins drafts have faired the past ten years.

Player of the Week

When the Twins drafted Matt Fox with the 35th overall pick (first round sandwich pick) in the 2004 draft, they thought this Central Florida pitcher could possibly follow in the footsteps of Scott Baker and Kevin Slowey. Unfortunately, his arm had taken a beating in college and the 26.2 innings he would pitch that summer with Elizabethton would be his only action for nearly two years.

Following shoulder surgery, Fox returned to Elizabethton where he had a 4-0 record in 2006 with a 3.79ERA in 40.1 innings in 20 games (1 start) with 46K/13BB. Fox moved up to Beloit in 2007 where he had a 7-2 record with a 3.50ERA in 22 games (82.1 innings) including 13 starts with 66K/23BB. Last season Fox took another step forward, moving up to Ft. Myers where he again began the season in the bullpen before moving into the starting rotation. With the Miracle, Fox had a 7-7 record with a 3.37ERA in 32 games (117.2 innings) including 14 starts with 99K/33BB.

Fox took another step up the ladder this year to New Britain where he has been in the starting rotation. With 5.1 innings of shutout ball in Sunday's 7-5 win and 7.0 shutout innings in Thursday's 7-2 win, Fox had the best week of his Twins career since surgery derailed his career. His numbers this week included 12.1 shutout innings, 11 hits and 6K/3BB including two wins (4-2).

With his ERA down to 3.00 in 51.0 innings, Matt Fox is beginning to look like the pitcher who once was considered a potential front of the rotation starter when drafted five years ago.

Has this been Bill Smith's best move?

roger13 — Mon, 25 May 2009 15:29:57 -0000

All winter Twins fans were impatiently waiting for Bill Smith to do something. We needed a top short reliever. We needed a power hitting third baseman who batted from the right side. Fans weren't very patient, but Bill Smith was.

Bill Smith was confident that a third base platoon of Brian Buscher and Brendon Harris would be acceptable. Yet, he continued to monitor the health of Joe Crede. We all know who represents Joe Crede and that his agent had high expectations for a large, multi year contract. As the winter moved on towards spring, options for Crede thinned as Bill Smith and the Twins continued to show up and watch him work out.

With spring training only days away, Crede and his agent accepted what Bill Smith and the Twins were willing to pay....an incentive laden one year contract at a base salary of $2.5mm with an additional $4.5mm incentives beginning at 250 plate appearances and maxing out at 525.

Bill Smith's patience and tenacity paid off as the Twins got an excellent defensive third baseman who swings from the right side with some power. Crede is providing exactly what the Twins hoped for and appears on track to hit around .250 Average with 25 or so home runs. At his current pace he will earn most, if not all, of his incentives...between $6.5mm and $7.0mm.

Only time will tell whether or not Crede will continue playing as he has, will stay healthy and whether or not the Twins will be in the playoffs. But it is clear that Mr. Smith played his hand well with Crede and his agent.

But what does the future hold? It was clear that Crede agreed to this one year deal in an effort to prove to all teams that he was healthy to earn a bigger long-term payday next winter. Will the Twins be at the table when negotiations begin anew this November?

Odds are low the Twins would sign Crede to a three or four year deal at $10mm a season or more. But don't be surprised when the Twins offer arbitration this November. Should Crede accept, the Twins would end up paying market value for another year of Joe Crede while Danny Valencia gets himself ready to be their every day third baseman.

But it is likely Crede wouldn't accept arbitration. And this is what makes Bill Smith's actions last winter a real winner. I expect that with another solid year, Joe Crede will be a Type-A free agent. If so, the Twins will receive a first or second round pick from the team signing Crede and a supplemental first round selection.

Yes, we were unhappy for much of the winter as Bill Smith held his cards close to his chest. In the end, the Twins got an all-star third baseman for 2009 on an incentive laden contract and very likely two high draft picks in the 2010 draft. Now that, in my opinion, is an excellent deal and probably the best Mr. Smith has done since taking control of this organization.

Minor League Report...May 23, 2009

roger13 — Sat, 23 May 2009 12:26:13 -0000

Good morning Twins fans! After a couple very good weeks, the organization slipped a game under .500 this week with 13 wins in 27 games.

Last Sunday, Jim Rantz selected New Britain first baseman Whit Robbins as the organization's Player of the Week. Ben Revere was also selected as the FSL Player of the Week.

Beloit activated their top hitter, shortstop Ramon Santana. The Twins placed Glen Perkins on the disabled list, replacing him with Sean Henn, who was Rochester's closer. Former Bloomington Blue ace Ben Hendrickson, who signed shortly before spring training, was added to the Rochester roster after a rehab assignment in EST. Henry Reyes was released by the Beloit Snappers with Shooter Hunt moving to the disabled list and infielder Nicholas Romero moving up to Ft. Myers to replace Estarlin De Los Santos who was placed on the DL. With three openings on the Snappers roster, the Twins promoted three pitchers who had been on rehab assignments in EST, Michael Tarsi, Blake Martin and Curtis Leavitt. The Twins waived Craig Breslow to make room on their roster for today's starter, Anthony Swarzak. Delmon Young was added to the active roster yesterday, although he will not return to the Twins for another day or two following his mothers funeral later today. Jose Morales returned to Rochester. As expected, Allan de San Miguel returned to Ft. Myers with Danny Rams moving back to EST.

Rochester Red Wings (AAA) (2-4, 20-19, 3rd place, -6.0 games out)

The Red Wings had a tough road trip to the Atlantic coast. Fortunately, they held on to third place and didn't fall any further behind the division leading Scranton/WB Yankees.

Although he didn't know it, Anthony Swarzak made his last start in Saturday's 4-3 loss at Durham. Swarzak pitched 7.0 innings with 11 hits, 4 runs and 4K/2BB. Swarzak has a team high 44.0 innings in 7 starts (4-3) with a 2.25ERA, 1.16WHIP and 32K/11BB. Juan Morillo pitched a perfect inning with 1K/0BB.........Philip Humber didn't get a decision in Sunday's 3-2 win, pitching 5.0 innings with 5 hits, 2 runs and 4K/4BB. Mike Gosling picked up his fourth win in five decisions, pitching 2.0 shutout innings with 1 hit, 0 runs and 0K/0BB. Sean Henn made his last appearance picking up his sixth save by pitching 2.0 shutout innings with 0 hits and 4K/0BB.........Brian Duensing was a hard luck loser in Monday's 1-0 loss. Duensing pitched 7.0 innings with 6 hits, 2 run and 5K/1BB. Duensing has a 2-3 record in 30.0 innings with a 5.10ERA and 16K/9BB.........Jason Jones wasn't sharp in Tuesday's 10-1 loss, pitching 4.2 innings with 8 hits, 7 runs and 2K/2BB as he picked up his fourth loss in four decisions.........Kevin Mulvey came within an out of a complete game in Thursday's 5-4 twelve inning win at Norfolk. Mulvey pitched 8.2 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs and 3K/0BB. Mike Gosling picked up his fifth win, pitching 2.1 shutout innings with 1 hit and 4K/2BB. Bobby Keppel appears to be the Wings new closer, pitching 1.0 shutout inning with 1 hits and 0K/1BB to pick up his first save.........Reid Santos moved into the open starter spot last night as the Wings lost 4-3. Santos pitched 4.0 innings with 7 hits, 3 runs (2 earned) and 2K/3BB. Juan Morillo got his first loss in three decisions as he pitched 2.0 innings with 3 hits, 1 run and 2K/0BB.

Armando Gabino made two appearances this week, pitching 3.0 shutout innings with 2 hits and 0K/2BB as his ERA dropped to 3.81. Bobby Keppel picked up his first save in 15 appearances (22.2 innings) with a 2.38ERA. Juan Morillo has a 2.77ERA in 13.0 innings with 17K/5BB. Prior to his promotion, Henn had a 1.13ERA in 24.0 innings with 32K/10BB with 6 saves.

Alexi Casilla cooled this week, getting 5 hits in 21 at bats and is now hitting .333/.390/.444. Dustin Martin has also been in a slump with a 2 for 21 week, dropping his average to .270/.331/.338. Luke Hughes leads the Wings with 28 RBI (second in the organization) and is tied for the organization lead with 6 home runs (tied with teammate David Winfree and New Britain's Rene Tosoni).

New Britain Rock Cats (AA) (6-1, 20-20, 3rd place, -2.5 games)

The Cats had another great week as they fought back to .500 picking up 2.5 games and moving up 3 spots in their division. They now trail Connecticut by only 2.5 games.

The Cats beat Portland, 4-1, last Saturday behind a spot start by Zach Ward who pitched 3.0 no-hit, shutout innings with 2K/2BB. Frank Mata evened his record with his first win, pitching 1.2 innings with 2 hits, 1 run and 2K/1BB. Anthony Slama pitched 2.1 no-hit, shutout innings with 3K/2BB to pick up his sixth save.........Cole DeVries had his first poor start of the year in the make-up game earlier Saturday. Cole pitched 4.2 innings with 10 hits, 5 runs and 3K/2BB, picking up his third loss in five decisions, 5-4.........DeVries was back to normal in last night's 3-1 win over Reading. DeVries pitched 7.0 innings with 7 hits, 1 run and 4K/0BB to even his record at 3-3. DeVries leads the staff with 44.0 innings and a 2.86ERA with 29K/14BB. Slama pitched a perfect ninth inning with 2K/0BB to pick up his fourth save of the week.........Matt Fox picked up his second win in four decisions in Sunday's 4-2 win. Fox pitched 5.1 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs (1 earned) and 6K/3BB. Anthony Slama got his seventh save, pitching 1.0 shutout inning with 0 hits and 0K/2BB.........Jeff Manship got a lot of support in Tuesday's 14-6 win over Reading. Manship pitched 5.0 innings with 6 hits, 4 runs and 4K/2BB.........Jay Rainville had one of his best outings of the year in Wednesday's 6-4 win, pitching 6.0 innings with 5 hits, 2 runs and 5K/0BB. Zach Ward got his second win with no losses, pitching 0.2 no-hit innings with 1K/0BB. Slama picked up his third save of the week, pitching 1.0 shutout inning with 1 hit and 2K/0BB.........Ryan Mullins has been pitching very well of late as his ERA moved down to 4.38. Mullins got his second win in seven decisions in Thursday's 7-1 win, pitching 6.0 innings with 5 hits, 1 run and 4K/1BB.

Zach Ward saw his ERA drop to 6.63 this week with 3.2 no-hit, shutout innings in two appearances. Rob Delaney appeared in four games (6.0 innings) with 5 hits, 1 unearned run and 7K/1BB. Anthony Slama had four saves in four games (5.1 scoreless innings) with 1 hit and 7K/4BB.

The Rock Cats have six regular starters hitting over .300: Brian Dinkelman (.336/.408/.500 in 134 at bats with an organization high 29 RBI); Danny Valencia (.322/.405/.600 in 115 at bats); Erik Lis (.315/.389/.441 in 111 at bats); Juan Portes (.315/.385/.478 in 92 at bats and tied with an organization high 10 doubles); Whit Robbins (.306/.376/.508 in 124 at bats); and Brandon Roberts (.302/.358/.448 in 96 at bats). Add Rene Tosoni, who has been one of their hottest hitters this month (.345/.457/.552 in 58 May at bats with 3 home runs and 10 RBI), and you have a line-up that has been scoring a lot of runs. With two of the best short relievers in the organization, the Rock Cats have a real shot at battling for a championship this summer if their starters can continue to pitch like they have the past few weeks.

Ft. Myers Miracle (Hi-A) (4-3, 26-14, 1st place, +3.5 games)

The Miracle lost a half game and now lead second place Charlotte by 3.5 games.

Carlos Gutierrez was very good in last Saturday's 11-9, thirteen inning win over St. Lucie. Gutierrez pitched 5.0 innings with 4 hits, 4 unearned runs and 3K/3BB. Kyle Waldrop got his second win in four decisions, allowing 4 hits and 1 run in 3.0 innings of relief with 2K/1BB. Santos Arias earned his first save with a perfect inning with 1K/0BB.........Gutierrez was back in last night's 3-1 win, pitching 5.0 innings with 2 hits, 1 unearned run and 4K/4BB. Gutierrez lowered his ERA to 0.98 with a 0.89WHIP in a team high 46.0 innings with 29K/16BB. Spencer Steedley has been as good as any reliever in the organization (0.83ERA with 22K/4BB in 21.2 innings). He picked up his third win without any losses, pitching 2.2 shutout innings with 1 hit and 2K/0BB. Blair Erickson earned his fifth save by pitching 1.1 shutout inning with 1 hit and 2K/2BB.........Deolis Guerra pitched very well in Sunday's 3-2 loss, going 5.1 innings with 7 hits, 3 runs (2 earned) and 4K/1BB.........Monday's rainout was made up Tuesday, with David Bromberg getting his third win in three decisions as the Miracle beat Jupiter, 5-1. Bromberg pitched 6.2 innings with 4 hits, 1 run and 3K/3BB.........Steven Hirschfield made a spot start in the second game, pitching 3.0 innings with 2 hits and 1 unearned run with 4K/0BB. Hirschfield, who has been excellent out of the bullpen with a 0.84ERA, 0.70WHIP and 15K/5BB in 21.1 innings, picked up his first loss in two decisions as the Miracle lost 7-0.........Tyler Robertson got his first loss in three decisions in Wednesday's 5-2 loss to St. Lucie. Robertson pitched 6.0 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs (2 earned) and 3K/3BB.........Michael McCardell pitched 6.0 innings with 4 hits, 1 run and 7K/3BB in Thursday's 2-1 win. Alex Burnett pitched 3.0 innings of shutout relief with 1 hit and 2K/1BB to pick up his second win against one loss. Burnett has a 2.21ERA with a 0.93WHIP in 20.1 innings with 24K/7BB and 3 saves.

Rene Leveret has been the Miracle's best hitter this spring, hitting .371/.482/.500 in 70 at bats. Although he didn't go on the disabled list, Leveret missed several games before returning to action last night. Ben Revere was 7 for 25 this week and is now hitting .325/.389/.377 in 151 at bats with an organization second best 27 runs scored, 20 RBI and an organization high 18 stolen bases in 27 attempts. Chris Parmalee had a big week, 9 for 22, with 5 runs scored, a double and 2 RBI. In his brief stay with the Miracle, former second round pick Danny Rams was 4 for 13 (.308/.357/.462) with 2 doubles and 3 RBI.

Beloit Snappers (A) (2-5, 15-25, 8th place, -9.5 games)

The Snappers lost another game to first place Kane County as they dropped to last place in their eight team division.

Danny Berlind was solid in Saturday's 6-5 loss to Peoria, pitching 6.0 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs and 6K/1BB. Joe Testa picked up his first loss, pitching 1.1 inning with 1 hit, 2 runs and 2K/1BB.........Berlind picked up his third loss in four decisions in Thursday's 7-5 loss to Ft. Wayne. Berlind pitched 5.0 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs and 7K/1BB. Berlind, who recently moved into the starting rotation, has a 3.68ERA, 1.19WHIP and 28K/7BB in 29.1 innings.........Daniel Osterbrock got his second win in six decisions in Sunday's 9-6 win. Osterbrock pitched 5.1 innings with 9 hits, 6 runs and 4K/0BB. Danny Rondon earned his first save, pitching a perfect inning with 2K/0BB.........Osterbrock was tagged with his fifth loss in last night's 13-7 loss to Ft. Wayne. Osterbrock pitched only 2.1 innings with 5 hits, 8 runs (only 1 earned) and 2K/2BB as his ERA moved up to 7.07.........Robert Lanigan had another poor start in Monday's 10-6 loss, pitching 4.0 innings with 10 hits, 8 runs and 1K/0BB.........The Miracle's top starter, Brad Tippett, wasn't sharp in Tuesday's 9-1 loss, pitching 5.0 innings with 8 hits, 4 runs and 3K/3BB as he picked up his first loss in four decisions. Closer Matt Williams appeared in 3 games (4.1 innings) with 6 hits, 2 runs and 3K/1BB.

Ramon Santana returned to the Snappers with a 7 for 14 week including 4 runs, 2 doubles, a home run and 7 RBI. Santana leads the team at .414/.512/.686 in 70 at bats with 7 doubles and 4 home runs. Ozzie Lewis continues to hit well, 8 for 25 this week, and is now hitting .302/393/.443. Australian James Beresford took advantage of Santana's absence with a 11 for 30 week, raising his average to .300/.382/.311. Catcher Alexander Soto was 7 for 16 with a double, 2 home runs and 6 RBI to get his average up to .291/.337/.494. With a .172/.200/.328 start in 58 April at bats, many questioned whether or not Angel Morales was really one of the top prospects in the organization. As May nears its end, Morales has begun playing more like the player we expected, hitting .308 Average with three home runs in his last ten games and .257/.349/.486 in 74 at bats this month. Morales, who is tied for the second most home runs in the organization with five, has also began cutting down on his strikeouts with 22 strikeouts (30% compared with 31% in April and 39% last year at Elizabethton) and 8 walks this month.

Player of the Week

Steve Tolleson was one of the top players in the organization last year, hitting .300/.382/.466 in 343 at bats for the Rock Cats with 28 doubles, a triple, 9 home runs and 12 stolen bases in 18 attempts. Tolleson moved on to be one of the top hitters in the prestigious Arizona Fall League where he hit .383/.449/.543 in 94 at bats while playing with many of the top prospects in baseball.

With Trevor Plouffe and Matt Tolbert beginning the year in Rochester, there wasn't room on the Red Wing roster for another middle infielder that needs to play every day. Thus, Tolleson returned to New Britain for another year and it appears that his disappointment affected his play as he hit .169/.234/.203 in 59 at bats in April.

With April behind him, Tolleson began playing like the player Twins fans have come to know with a 10-23 week (.435 Average) with 2 doubles, a triple, 2 home runs, 8 runs scored, 6 RBI, 4 walks, 2 strikeouts and a stolen base. In 73 at bats this month, Tolleson is hitting .301/.407/.521 with 6 doubles, 2 triples, 2 home runs, 16 runs scored, 9 RBI, 4 stolen bases in 5 attempts, 11 walks and 8 strikeouts.

Steve Tolleson is again making a statement that he deserves a promotion to Rochester.

Minor League Report...May 16, 2009

roger13 — Sat, 16 May 2009 12:06:20 -0000

Good morning. The Twins organization backed up its best week of the year with another winning week at 13-11. Rochester and Ft. Myers had big weeks with Beloit playing .500 ball.

Last Sunday, Jim Rantz announced that Rochester left handed reliever Sean Henn was his Player of the Week. Danny Valencia missed several games with a wrist injury, returning to action on Monday. Rochester activated Brock Peterson. Wilson Ramos broke the index finger on his left hand, landing on the DL for several weeks. Danny Lehmann moved up to New Britain with Allan de San Miguel (who had moved from New Britain to Beloit last week) moving up to Ft. Myers. Catcher Jeff Lanning moved from EST to Beloit. Evan Bigley moved up to Ft. Myers to replace Joe Benson who has a broken hand. Ben Julianel was released by Rochester.

When Jose Morales moved up to the Twins yesterday to replace Delmon Young who is out three to seven days on "Family Emergency Leave," the obvious move was made....Allan de San Miguel moved from Ft. Myers to Rochester. When de San Miguel appeared in the Red Wing game last night, he may have set some type of record by appearing in games for all four full-season teams within the first five weeks of the season (7 games in New Britain, 3 games in Beloit, 2 games in Ft. Myers and 1 game in Rochester). His spot on the Miracle roster was filled by moving Danny Rams across the parking lot from EST until Young returns to the Twins and all these moves are reversed.

Rochester Red Wings (5-2, 18-15, 3rd place, -6.0 games)

The Red Wings had a big week, moving up a spot to third place while picking up 3 full games on the league leading Scranton/WB Yankees.

The week began last Saturday with an exciting 7-6 win over Charlotte. Jason Jones lasted only 3.0 innings with 7 hits, 5 runs and 0K/0BB. Bobby Keppel pitched 3.0 shutout innings of relief with 2 hits and 0K/BB. Juan Morillo got his second win (2-0) with 2.0 no-hit innings with 2K/3BB. Sean Henn earned his fourth save, pitching 1.0 inning with 2 hits, 1 run and 0K/0BB.......Jason Jones was better on Thursday as the Wings beat Indianapolis, 5-4. Jones pitched 4.1 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs and 1K/2BB. Jones has yet to win in three decisions with a 5.61ERA in 33.2 innings with 19K/17BB.......Kevin Mulvey was excellent in Sunday's 8-4 win, picking up his second win while pitching 6.0 innings with 5 hits, 1 run and 4K/2BB.......Mulvey wasn't sharp in last night's 8-3 loss, getting his second loss while pitching 4.1 innings with 5 hits, 4 runs and 5K/5BB. Mulvey now has a 4.15ERA with 31K/19BB in 34.2 innings.......Anthony Swarzak evened his record at 3-3 on Monday with one of his best starts of the season in a 6-0 Wings win. Swarzak pitched 6.0 shutout innings with 6 hits and 5K/3BB as he dropped his ERA to 1.70 with 28K/9BB in a team high 37.0 innings.......Philip Humber wasn't sharp in Tuesday's 6-5 win over Indianapolis. Humber pitched 4.1 innings with 6 hits, 5 runs and 2K/2BB. Armando Gabino pitched 1.0 perfect inning to pick up his second win (2-1).......Brian Duensing was the loser (2-2) in Wednesday's 6-3 loss, pitching 5.0 innings with 7 hits, 4 runs and 2K/2BB. Juan Morillo pitched 2.0 no hit innings of relief with 4K/1BB.

Sean Henn allowed 2 runs (1 earned) in 2 games this week as he picked up his fourth and fifth saves to tie him for the organization lead. Henn has a 1.23ERA in 14 games (22.0 innings). Juan Morillo has appeared in 6 games for the Wings with a 2-0 record, 10.0 innings, 2.70ERA and 14K/5BB.

Alexi Casilla is making a statement...that he doesn't belong in AAA. In his first 8 games with the Wings, Casilla is hitting .394/.429/.515 with 2 triples in 33 at bats. Since solving his Visa problems, Justin Huber has been exactly what writer Jim Mandelaro said the Wings needed...a veteran with some pop. Huber is hitting .338/.403/.538 with 2 home runs and 11 rbi in 65 at bats. Luke Hughes was 7 for 26 this week with 6 runs scored, a double, 1 triple, 1 home run and 5 rbi. Hughes leads the organization with 6 home runs and is tied for the most rbi with 25. Trevor Plouffe is hitting .257/.312/.389 with 20 rbi.

New Britain Rock Cats (AA) (1-5, 14-19, Tied-6th place, -5.0 games)

After their best week of the season, the Cats managed to win only one game this week. Although they are tied for sixth place in this eight team division, they remain within striking distance if their pitching (starters and long relief) can take a step forward.

Ryan Mullins pitched his best game this season in Saturday's 8-7 loss to Portland. Mullins pitched 5.0 innings with 5 hits, 1 run and 3K/3BB. Frank Mata came on to get the loss (0-1) by pitching 1.2 innings with 6 hits, 5 runs and 0K/1BB.......Mullins followed with an even better start last night, getting his first win, 6-0, over Portland. Mullins pitched 5.0 shutout innings with 6 hits and 7K/0BB. Rob Delaney and Anthony Slama combined for 2 shutout, no-hit innings of relief to give the Cats their only win of the week. With these two excellent starts, Mullins dropped his ERA to 4.91 with 35K/8BB in 33.1 innings with a 1-5 record.......Cole DeVries was again a hard luck loser to Connecticut on Monday, 5-1. DeVries pitched 7.0 innings with 6 hits, 2 unearned runs and 6K/1BB. DeVries record stands at 2-2 with a team best 2.23ERA in 32.1 innings with 22K/12BB.......Matt Fox was the loser (1-2) in Tuesday's 4-2 loss, pitching 5.1 innings with 8 hits, 4 runs and 5K/1BB.......Jeff Manship wasn't good in Wednesday's 15-7 loss, pitching only 3.1 innings with 7 hits, 6 runs and 0K/2BB. Yohan Pino came on to get his first loss (0-1), pitching 1.2 innings with 3 hits, 4 runs and 3K/2BB.......Jay Rainville started Thursday's game in which the Cats were losing 8-1 when it was suspended. Rainville pitched 2.2 innings with 5 hits, 7 runs (6 earned) and 0K/2BB before the rains came. The game was finished yesterday with the Cats coming back to lose 10-8 with Rainville getting his second loss in three decisions.

Rob Delaney appeared in 3 games this week (3.2 shutout innings) with 1 hit and 3K/1BB. Delaney has a 2.55ERA in 24.2 innings with 27K/4BB. Anthony Slama appeared in 2 games (2.2 shutout innings) with no hits and 4K/0BB. Slama has a 2.00ERA with 30K/10BB in 18.0 innings.

Brian Dinkelman continued his hot streak with a 9 for 23 week including 4 runs scored, 2 doubles, 1 home run and 6 rbi. Dinkelman is now hitting .327/.397/.467 in 107 at bats with a team high 23 rbi. Whit Robbins was as hot as anyone in the organization at 11 for 22 this week with 3 doubles, a home run and 5 rbi, raising his average to .314/.391/.510. Danny Valencia returned from his brief injury with a 6 for 12 week including 3 doubles, raising his average to .304/.402/.533. Rene Tosoni was 7 for 19 with a double and his fourth home run. Tosoni struggled in April, hitting .180/.261/.361 in 61 at bats with 3 home runs and 10 rbi. In 43 at bats since May 1, Tosoni is hitting .326/.408/.442 with 1 home run and 5 rbi. He also has cut down his strike outs from 23 in April (37%) to 11 in May (25%). Although many were surprised when Tosoni began this season in AA after less than half a season in Hi-A following his promotion from rookie ball, Tosoni appears to be proving that he has a very bright future!

Ft. Myers Miracle (Hi-A) (4-1, 22-11, 1st place, +4.0 games)

The Miracle had another great week, stretching their lead over Charlotte an additonal three games. The Miracle had a night to remember Thursday against the third place St. Lucie Mets. The Mets previous record for hits and runs by an opponent were 22 hits and 18 runs. The Miracle set new records in their 19-4 win with 24 hits. They were 14 for 27 with runners in scoring position with 8 doubles, 7 players with multi-hit games and every starter having at least one hit and a run scored.

Michael McCardell pitched well in Saturday's 7-5 win over St. Lucie, pitching 5.0 innings with 8 hits, 4 runs and 5K/1BB to get his fourth win. Alex Burnett picked up his third save with a perfect inning.......McCardell was very good in last night's 4-3 win, improving his record to 5-2. He pitched 7.0 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs and 7K/1BB. McCardell has a 4.62ERA in 39.0 innings with a 1.08WHIP and 35K/6BB.......Carlos Gutierrez pitched 6.0 innings of three hit, shutout ball in Monday's 6-5 win over Sarasota, picking up his second win in three decisions.......Deolis Guerra struggled in the Miracle's only loss this week, 11-2. Guerra got his third loss in five decisions as he pitched 5.2 innings with 8 hits, 6 runs and 7K/2BB. Spencer Steedley pitched 2.1 innings of no hit relief with 3K/1BB.......Tyler Robertson was very good in Thursday's blow-out. Robertson picked up his second win (2-0), pitching 5.2 innings with 5 hits and 2 runs with 3K/2BB.

Spencer Steedley appeared in two games, pitching 3.1 no-hit innings with 5K/1BB. Steedley now has 19K/4BB in 17.1 innings with a 1.04ERA. Alex Burnett has 3 saves and a 2.81ERA in 16.0 innings with 20K/6BB. Blair Erickson has a team high 4 saves in 10.0 innings with 17K/4BB and a 3.60ERA.

Several players had big weeks, including Mark Dolenc who was 5 for 6 Thursday with a run scored, 3 doubles and 6 rbi. Dolenc, who was 11 for 22 this week, is hitting .333/.337/.433 in 90 at bats. Chris Cates, who was 8 for 18, is hitting .308/.370/.374. Joe Benson was hitting .293/.413/.444 in 99 at bats before challenging a wall in the dugout. Danny Lehmann was hitting a respectable .280/.321/.340 before his promotion to AA. Chris Parmalee leads the Miracle and has the second most home runs (5) and rbi (24) in the organization. Ben Revere was 8 for 18 this week and is now hitting .333/.400/.381 in 126 at bats with 24 runs scored and 16 stolen bases in 23 attempts.

Beloit Snappers (A) (3-3, 13-20, Tied-6th place, -8.5 games)

The Snappers lost another game to league leading Kane County.

Brad Tippett was excellent in Saturday's 8-3 win at Lansing. He pitched 6.0 innings with 3 hits, 2 runs (1 earned) and 3K/1BB to pick up his third win without a loss. Shooter Hunt pitched 1.0 inning of relief with 2 hits, 1 run and 1K/1BB.......Tippett was also very good in Thursday's 7-6, 13 inning loss at Clinton. Tippett allowed 8 hits and 3 runs (2 earned) in 5.0 innings with 3K/2BB. Danny Rondon picked up his second loss in three decisions while pitching 2.1 innings with 4 hits and 1 run. On a staff starving for quality starts, Tippett has been very good with a 2.87ERA, 1.02WHIP and 22K/4BB in 31.1 innings.......Michael Allen pitched 6.1 innings with 6 hits, 6 runs (3 earned) and 7K/1BB in Sunday's 6-3 loss, losing his fourth game without a win.......Allen had a good start in last night's 7-2 loss, pitching 6.0 innings with 8 hits, 4 runs (2 earned) and 7K/1BB picking up his fifth loss. Shooter Hunt pitched 2.0 innings of relief allowing 3 hits and 3 runs with 3K/3BB and a wild pitch.......Daniel Osterbrock won his first game (1-4) in Tuesday's 3-2 win, pitching 6.0 innings with 6 hits, 2 runs and 6K/0BB. Joe Testa pitched 2.0 shutout innings with 1 hit and 4K/1BB to pick up his second save.......Bobby Lanigan earned his fourth win in five decisions in Wednesday's 5-2 win at Clinton. Lanigan pitched 5.0 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs and 5K/1BB. Matt Williams picked up his fourth save with 2.0 shutout innings with 2 hits and 1K/0BB.

Joe Testa has been one of the organization's best relievers this year with a 1.52ERA in 23.2 innings with 33K/13BB. Bruce Pugh has a 2.93ERA in 15.1 innings with 11K/10BB. Matt Williams leads the team with 4 saves in 9 games (10.2 innings) with 8K/4BB.

Nathan Hanson was 6 for 15 this week and is now hitting .253/.314/.367 in 79 at bats. Dominic De La Osa was 7 for 21, raising his average to .240/.333/.280 in 100 at bats. Since returning from nearly three years on the disabled list, Drew Thompson is hitting .242/.333/.394 in 33 at bats. Ramon Santana, who is expected back from the disabled list this week, leads the Snappers at .393/.493/.643 in 56 at bats.

Player of the Week

The Twins selected Dallas Baptist outfielder Evan Bigley in the tenth round of last year's draft. Bigley went on to be one of the top hitters in the Appalachian League, hitting .300/.360/.587 with 13 doubles, 3 triples, 14 home runs and 47 rbi in 213 at bats.

The Twins moved Bigley up to Beloit this year where he was hitting .307/.340/.446 with 22 rbi in 101 at bats before his promotion to Ft. Myers. Bigley closed out his stay at Beloit with a 3 for 5 game with 2 runs scored and 2 rbi in Beloit's win last Saturday.

In his first three games for the Miracle, Bigley was 7 for 13 (.538 Average) with 4 runs scored and 3 rbi. For the week, Bigley was 10 for 18 (.556 Average ) at Beloit and Ft. Myers with 6 runs scored and 5 rbi. With 25 rbi, Bigley is tied with Luke Hughes for the organization lead.