Heels On The Field: A Baseball Blog : Midwest League

Entries categorized "Midwest League"

December 14, 2015

Mark Appel Trade Proves He’s Human, Not a Bust

When Mark Appel decided not to sign with the Pittsburgh Pirates, the verbal attacks were swift.

There were accusations that he was selfish, greedy, arrogant, and presumptuous. Appel’s decision not to sign meant he returned to Stanford University to complete his education. And he was motivated, in part, by hope that he’d be drafted by his hometown and favorite team, the Houston Astros.

If you’re waiting for the part that illustrates what a jerk he was, I’m sorry but that’s all.

Appel spoke to this blog, in his senior year at Stanford, about the emotions of the draft and his local connection. http://highheelsonthefield.typepad.com/my_weblog/2011/03/call-of-college-it-was-not-too-difficult-of-a-decision-especially-since-they-did-not-offer-any-money-in-the-end-they-draft.html

Many people, however, did respect and understand Appel’s decision. And why not? If you had the opportunity to complete a Stanford education and continue your job for another year, to increase your chances of being picked by the company of your dreams, wouldn’t you do it? [Note: He was previously selected by the Detroit Tigers in 2009, in the 15th round]

The most disappointing aspect was that Appel’s faith-based approach was ridiculed, and that narrative repeated this weekend. Appel, the #1 overall draft pick by his childhood team in 2013, was traded to the re-building Philadelphia Phillies as part of a package-deal trade and his name trended on Twitter for two days. Also disappointing were the snarky remarks about his spirituality, and his value.

It’s a fairly distant memory now, but when righty Appel was finally off the draft board, a huge baseball narrative ended. The new one was, of course, whether he'd live up to the hype surrounding the First Team All-American out of Stanford. A big school, big star, Appel entered the draft for the final time, and mass attention focused on the kid that wanted nothing more than to play for the Astros.

His time was brief in Short-Season New York Penn League with the Tri-City Valley Cats; he made just two starts before being promoted to Class-A Midwest League. He is 16-11 in 53 starts, with a 5.12 ERA combined in his two-year minor league career. He finished 2015 with the Triple-A Fresno Grizzlies with a 4.12 ERA in 12 starts, and was selected to the popular All-Star Futures Game.
As time’s unfolded, and he wasn’t advancing at the speed the Astros and their fans expected, Appel’s star-glow diminished. He underwent an appendectomy in January of 2014, adding more concern about his anticipated major league arrival. Still, when the trade to the Phillies was announced, there were definite shock waves. Within hours of the announcement, Appel made a statement that seemed to imply the situation in Houston:

“I’m looking forward to being in an organization that wants me for who I am, not for the expectation of what a former No. 1 pick is, not for any of the peripherals other than who I am as a baseball player, as a pitcher, as a person, as a teammate in the clubhouse and away from the field.”

Perhaps the Astros dream was like a first love, when fantasy turns to reality, and you have to admit forever was a longshot. Appel seemed to let go of that fantasy, and embraced a new beginning. He was making clear that all hadn’t gone well, but he wouldn’t bash his ex. He also, obviously, had plenty of great memories and experiences to cherish. He later tweeted:

“So many emotions…Thanks to Houston. F.O. staff, fans, and most of all my teammates. Love you guys! So excited for Philly! God is so good.”

Appel ‘s name made the rounds fast and the debates were endless. The opinions that stood out from the pack, however, were about him failing expectations. Many laughed off the trade, as if the Phillies had just inherited the ‘Poltergeist’ house.

Is it possible to take a breath, and admit we too are guilty of fantasizing?

Our expectations of what a first-rounder should do in a two-year developmental period should be checked at the door, before we enter the baseball world. What’s true is that, yes, he hasn’t, in a business sense, been a success in the context of the $6.35 million bonus he received. What’s truer is that he’s human; and in that sense, Appel’s done exactly what humans do. To suggest his career is a gigantic disappointment is really thinking from a money standpoint. And if you’re a baseball fan, is that all there is? The billionaire business of MLB wants a polished product on the field to sell tickets. But as fans, you have a purer love of the game. You know the game. It looks easy, and it ain’t.

We in the media must also not re-write the same ‘Is he a bust’? story too many times. Because we all know how this works, behind the scenes, day to day. We witness the process, both on a physical and emotional level. A first-round talent with a childhood dream is still vulnerable to that process.

Appel ‘s statements on social media suggest a guy who knows he let people down, but also that he can’t be held to an unfair standard. His words also suggest he’s ready for a new challenge in a new season, with a team he’d never dreamed of playing for, but has excitedly embraced. He’s showing he has a well-rounded, open-minded attitude and commitment to his career and teammates.

At 24-years old, we don’t know what Mark Appel will be going forward. But his story is far from over. In order to see that, and enjoy the ride, we have to release all expectations.

Posted at 07:31 PM in Baseball, Midwest League, MiLB, Minor League Baseball, MLB, MLB Draft, New York Penn League, Pacific Coast League | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 26, 2015

EXCLUSIVE: Top Rays Prospect Brent Honeywell Promoted, Talks About 2015 Success

Brent Honeywell, ranked as the 8th best prospect in the Tampa Bay Rays system by Baseball America entering 2015, has been promoted from the Class-A Bowling Green Hot Rods to High-A Charlotte. He'll join the Stone Crabs as they begin the second half of their season, after winning the first-half title in the Florida State League (Southern Division).

He leaves the New York Penn League on the heels of an incredible 11-strikeout 7 inning performance two weeks ago. He's 4-4 with a 2.91 ERA in 12 starts. In 65 innings of work he's allowed just 12 walks, while striking out 76.

Here's what he told me Friday afternoon.

On this season's success: [I'm] throwing strikes. No free passes. And when I get into trouble, I have to limit the damage. Everything is good. Now I'm just trying to sharpen things.

On maturing On and Off the field: I've just grown in the game. Off the field, I'm still a little kid *laughed*. Mentally and physically, I'm really slowing the game down in tough situations.

You can follow Brent on Twitter @brent_honeywell.

Posted at 03:16 PM in Baseball, Florida State League, Midwest League, MiLB, Minor League Baseball | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 23, 2015

Chris Kirsch Helps Lead the Stone Crabs With Confidence: 'We Knew We Were the Team to Beat'

In 2013, a tall (make that really tall) guy entered the visiting dugout of the Staten Island Yankees, cracking a few silly jokes that got everyone around him laughing. Later that day, he took the mound and showcased the other half. A power arm. A fiery energy. A steely determination. And a big dose of wildness he'd need to harness.

Chris Kirsch, in a nutshell, was a pitcher with all the makings of a fun baseball story, and one that could be a big success or a journey full of struggles.

So far, mostly the former is true.

Kirsch, a 14th round pick by the Tampa Bay Rays in 2012, has advanced through the Rays system at a steady pace. At 23, he's never made any of the Rays prospect lists, but the bigger surprise is that he barely gets the attention he's earned. There's a tendency by prospect writers to focus on the higher draft picks. Projection is everything. But results don't talk as loud as they should in the prospect conversation. While the Rays have expressed a possibility that he could move to the bullpen in the future, he's making a case for a starting role as he continues to develop.

The lefty finished 2013 with the Hudson Valley Renegades (Class-A, Short Season) with a stronger second half than first. He showed improvement with each start, exhibiting the cool head that now comes easier to him.

"I think what's been the biggest key to my success has been the mental part of the game," he said this weekend. "I've been able to clear my head and not worry about other stuff. I used to have trouble with that, but now I'm able to focus from pitch to pitch and it's been huge for me."

He followed up that season with a strong Midwest League campaign. He pitched a career-high 133 innings, going 9-8 in 24 starts with a 2.83 ERA. He also finished with 82 strikeouts and 41 walks allowed. This year, he's been a huge part of the Charlotte Stone Crabs domination of the Florida State League. In 11 starts, he's got a 2.55/1.15 ERA/WHIP with 45 strikeouts.

"Our team chemistry couldn't be better. From the start of the season, we all knew we were the team to beat," he said. "We just had that kind of sense in the clubhouse. Everyone walks in there expecting to win every day. At the same time, we're a loose group of guys and enjoy doing what we do. I think that helps us. We don't feel pressure. We just go out there and play."

His first-half performance seemed to ensure a ticket to participate in the FSL All-Star Game. But when the final names were announced, he wasn't one of them. After Juniel Querecuto was scratched, lefty Kirsch was called on to replace him. He pitched an inning and was credited for the win.

"[It was] awesome! It was my first All-Star Game of my professional career and it was an honor to be selected to play. The festivities before the game, like the home run derby, were really fun to watch. It was so laid back and everyone was there just to enjoy themselves and have a good time. Nobody put any pressure on themselves performance-wise. It was a real laid back, joking atmosphere which was really cool," he said.

As for his personal performance, there's been one pitch that's been most effective and there was deliberate effort to make that happen.

"I think this year it's been my change-up. I went into this past off-season knowing I needed to come back to Spring Training with a change-up and a good one. So that's what I focused on the most and I think I was able to accomplish that this off-season. I'm able to throw it with confidence consistently."

That discipline comes from a place that he's never forgotten. On the field in college as part of the Lackawanna Falcons, Kirsch says he learned everything that makes him the player and person he's become from Lackawanna head coach Chris Pensak.

"Coach Pensak played a huge part in my development. He gave me the wind up that I still use today. He also instilled a work ethic in me that I didn't have in high school and that's something that I carry with me. He not only played a huge part in my development on the field, but off the field as well. I'm the person I am today because of that man. I was very lucky to have him as my coach, because of how much my life changed. When I got news of his dismissal, I was in shock," said Kirsch.

Kirsch's signature passion is ignited as he goes on to talk about Pensak's dismissal. It's something that his former player cannot imagine or understand.

"The program will never be the same there. He built a dynasty. The number of things he accomplished there, the list goes on and on. I could go on and on about how much of an importance he has been in my life and to every player that walks through those doors to play baseball there. But for his dismissal...they gave him no reason as to why they weren't renewing his contract and that's because they didn't have one. He did nothing but win at that school. And I'm sure there's plenty of other schools now begging him to be their coach."

As the second half begins, Kirsch is focused on a key area. Set them down early.

"Doc Watson and I have been working on putting hitters away with two strikes. Learning how to sequence hitters. It's a work in progress so far," he said. "I think I've made huge strides, but there's still a lot of work to be done."

You can follow Chris Kirsch on Twitter @ChrisKirsch9

Posted at 09:13 PM in Baseball, Florida State League, Midwest League, MiLB, Minor League Baseball, Minor League Prospects, New York Penn League | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 13, 2015

Heels Watch: Rays Edition - Stone Crabs Clinch. Why So Good? PLUS Oranizational Notes

South Florida - If you’d been paying attention to the Charlotte Stone Crabs the past few weeks, the Tampa Bay Rays High-A affiliate has been blazing a fire through baseball. No, not just the Florida State League they play in, but all of baseball. Carrying the lowest ERA in all of baseball two weeks ago (2.12), they bested every team in the minors and majors.

Many things have gone right for the team to bring them to the point they reached Friday night, when they clinched the South Division and a playoffs spot. They won their 41st game, giving them a 41-20 record in the first half.

The Breakdown:

Pitching

There was a looming question about the rotation and whether they had enough to succeed. But the rotation showcased guys who'd been around, and had enough of a veteran mindset to overcome obstacles. Their 1.18 team WHIP is tied for 1st with Clearwater.

In the early part of the season, Stone Crabs manager Michael Johns explained that a few of the guys playing for him were well-known to him. He’d seen what distance they’d grown as players and people. The first name he mentioned when asked who’d grown the most, was starting pitcher Jacob Faria.

Faria was on the hill last night for the big game, and turned in the kind of quality performance that’s expected of him right now. He worked through 6 innings of work, allowing no runs, 3 hits, and, walked just two batters. He has the lowest ERA in the league (1.33), the lowest WHIP on the team (0.98), and the most strikeouts on the team (63). Johns lauded Faria’s ‘maturity’, both on the hill and off.

Second in strikeouts to Faria on the team, is Chris Kirsch. Kirsch leads in a category that he led in previous seasons, innings pitched. A big lefty with a big, lively fastball, his 4-3 record doesn’t tell the whole story, but record rarely does. His 44 strikeouts is also 2nd to Faria’s. He lacked run support in some of his better starts, and pitched deep enough in several outings to give the team a chance. He’s not been given enough attention the last two seasons, remaining more of an under-the-radar type player. With more of a spotlight on him, he continues to prove he has the stuff to pitch deep and keep guys off base. Here's what he had to say in August of 2014 - http://www.heelsonthefield.net/my_weblog/2013/08/rays-prospect-chris-kirsch-finds-his-way-in-latest-start-for-renegades.html

Ryne Stanek’s ERA is 5th in the league (1.78). Stanek’s arm is highly regarded, despite past medical questions. It’s early in his career, having been drafted in 2013 in the 1st round, but an industry source said that should a starting role not work out, he has “closer stuff.”

Worth mentioning is one of the Rays top pitching prospects, Taylor Guerrieri, who’s been on the road back from Tommy John surgery, and a separate suspension for testing positive for a ‘drug of abuse’. Guerrieri has been pitching for the Stone Crabs with mixed, but mostly positive results. In 5 games, 13 IP, he’s allowed 7 earned runs (five of them in his worst outing of the season), has kept the walks to a minimum (3), with 7 strikeouts. People have wondered about his maturity, and when he made his professional debut, sure, that was clear. But the Rays first round pick was also the quickest learner in a short span of time such as the Short-Season New York Penn League is. His ability to grow with each outing, and to re-focus during a difficult start improved vastly from the start of the season to the end. While he may not have the biggest hand in the Stone Crabs success, every arm matters. And his continued development matters a lot to the Rays.

Out of the bullpen, Brad Schreiber has been a gem, leading the league in saves with 16. He hasn’t allowed a run since May 27th and hasn’t surrendered a walk in his last 6 opportunities. For a late rounder (40th, 2012), Schreiber is making a case for himself.

You can also read a recent interview reliever Kyle McKenzie did with this blog. He has a 2.37 ERA in 19 IP, allowing 6 walks in 11 games. He was a late addition to the roster, and has so far made a good adjustment. - http://www.heelsonthefield.net/2015/05/kyle-mckenzie-talks-about-stone-crabs-personal-ccess.html

Offense:

The Stone Crabs offense has also been strong. The team leads in AVG (.269), runs scored (262), and RBI (242). Their biggest rival (North Div.) Daytona Tortugas leads in home runs (38), while Charlotte has lacked the same power with 21 home runs. They’ve been solid in drawing the free pass, with 201 walks, good for 3rd in the league.

First baseman Jake Bauers leads the team in that category with 28, fourth overall in the league. He also leads the team in home runs, hitting 6 which is 7th in the league. http://www.heelsonthefield.net/2015/04/spotlight-onrays-prospect-jake-bauers-.html

The two-punch of Bauers and Willy Adames has been a huge spark. Adames leads the club in hits (60) and doubles (14). 2013 4th round pick Kean Wong has led the charge in the past week, as the team reached this pivotal point, putting together a 7-game hitting streak. In those seven games, he’s had three back-to-back multi-hit games, reaching base safely four times on Wednesday.

Centerfielder Braxton Lee has also been consistent in the last two weeks, hitting in four games straight last week (with a pair of RBI and stolen bases in one game) and has now hit safely in the past three games. In the same game as Wong on the tenth, Lee got three hits, crossed home plate three times, knocked in a run and stole two bases. STORY

The Stone Crabs have a tough stretch ahead, as the weather warms up and the schedule starts to bring on a little wear and tear. But they have a cohesive unit, that has accomplished more than most expected. With all of that success, it’s worth wondering who among them may not be there come playoffs time.

RAYS ORGANIZATIONAL NOTES: The Triple-A Rays affiliated Durham Bulls lead their own South division of the International League, going 37-26. The Norfolk Tides are on their tail, back just two games. Durham is second in saves with 24, just one behind the Indianapolis Indians…The Class-A Bowling Green Hot Rods have the second best record in the Midwest League (Eastern Division) at 35-26. They have one more loss than division rival Lansing Lugnuts. The team offense leads in Average (.272) and home runs, knocking out 45 this season.

Posted at 03:11 PM in Baseball, Florida State League, International League, Midwest League, MiLB, Minor League Baseball, Minor League Prospects | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 29, 2015

Spotlight On...Tampa Bay Rays Jake Bauers

Spotlight On… Rays Prospect Jake Bauers

Jake Bauers joined the Tampa Bay Rays organization in December 2014 via a trade by the San Diego Padres after being drafted by the team in the 7th round of the 2014 MLB Draft. But one person in the Rays camp already knew him well (see the first quote) and was excited about the top first baseman prospect’s arrival. Bauers began the 2015 season with the High-A Charlotte Stone Crabs, and is currently hitting .264/.418/.509.

He spoke before a game last weekend and here’s what he had to say about keys to success and looking ahead.

On his Comfort Level in New Organization: I’m definitely one hundred percent now. It just takes some time in the clubhouse, getting to know the new guys. You get comfortable. (Stone Crabs manager Michael Johns called him ‘a great teammate’ as well)

Keys to his Success: Definitely just getting my pitch. Not giving into a pitcher’s pitch in a hitter’s count. Taking those tough ones that might be a strike, and waiting to get a better pitch later in the at-bat.

On Lessons Learned from Midwest League in 2014: Definitely how good the pitchers were. You get in a pitchers count you’re not get anything to hit. You can’t miss, and when you do then you’re in a hole and you gotta battle your ass off. Then it’s between you and the pitcher.

On Manager Michael Johns: We talked last year, he was complimentary of me then. It’s an easy relationship. We have a good back and forth every day. [Hitting coach] Joe [Szekely]really knows a lot about approach. And that’s what I’m working on this year. [He also mentioned that sometimes he gets “a little too aggressive”]

What he Hopes to Accomplish in 2015: I want to play well enough to get to Double-A , sooner than later. Whether I get there by the end of this year or start there next year.

Follow Jake on Twitter @JakeBauers11. For additional coverage of the Stone Crabs and the Florida State League, head over to MinorLeagueBall.com. You can also read Michael Johns additional comments there about his team later this week.

Posted at 10:58 AM in Baseball, Florida State League, Midwest League, MiLB, Minor League Prospects | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

January 01, 2015

Yankees System, Mark Appel and the MiLB Lawsuit among Prospect, Minor League Baseball Stories to Follow in 2015

Happy New Year and here's a look at 2015 in MiLB, prospects and potential not yet reached.

MiLB Lawsuit/Petition – Everything will change or nothing will change. But this story leads the way, as the future of Minor League Baseball takes center stage. The 32 MiLBers that are involved in the lawsuit that was filed claim that MiLB pays players low wages, no overtime compensation, and that the CBA is in violation of the law for state and federal wages. At the Baseball Winter Meetings in December, MiLB VP Stan Brand announced that he’ll be petitioning congress sometime this year to add minor league players to the list of jobs that aren’t required to receive minimum wage or overtime wages.

While both sides can make an argument, MLB and Brand’s tone falls flat. Brand calling the lawsuit “perilous” in nature.

“I will ask you to heed the clarion call, man the battle stations and carry the message to Congress loudly and clearly. The value of grassroots baseball and our stewardship of the game needs to be protected against the onslaught of these suits.” Brand said, as reported by Josh Leventhal of Baseball America.

In other news, the average MLB salary went up 3.8 percent in 2014, to $3.2 million. (ESPN)

Bryce Harper/Mark Appel –Harper is the lighting rod to end all lightning rods, but Appel’s story has made waves since he was first drafted, and didn’t sign, with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Both are in a prime spot to prove a lot and live up to the elite prospect status they were branded with early in their careers.

Harper’s personality is often the topic, and, unfortunately, is too often secondary in conversation about his talent and still vast potential. Also taking center stage was the possible grievance hearing, which was avoided, when the Washington Nationals settled with the outfielder on a two-year $7.5 million extension. He missed Natsfest in the midst of that unfolding, creating more issues for fans, and the team, to grapple with. At 21, Harper has a long career ahead of him, and, for all his antics and controversies, is an exciting, interesting player to watch. And, to bottom line it, he could be one of the greats of this generation of players. After all that went down in the bottom half of 2014, his 2015 season is high on the list for anticipated seasons.

Appel’s career has not led him to the majors just yet, but according to …he’s a possibility to make his major league debut in 2015. The 2013 first round pick for the Houston Astros kicked up controversy (not his fault), when he decided to (gasp!) return to finish his education at Stanford University, opting not to sign with the Pirates who drafted him in 2012. Most of the baseball world understood Appel’s strategy: go back to school, wait for boyhood team the Houston Astros to draft him the following year. That’s exactly what happened.

Since then, he’s moved through the minors at a fast clip. He pitched in the Class-A Midwest and Short-A New York Penn Leagues in 2013, moving onto Advanced-A and Double-A levels in 2014. He’s not had the easiest go of it. In 2014, he combined for 83 innings pitched, finishing with a 6.91 ERA, with hitters averaging .319 off of him. He also struck out 78 batters, while walking 24 in 18 starts. The strikeouts are a good sign, but needs to cut down on the walks. He also followed that up with a strong performance in the Arizona Fall League. In one start, he pitched five shutout innings. That brought his scoreless innings streak to twelve.

Here’s what Astros GM Jeff Luhnow told MLB Network Radio in December:

“He’s not that far away, whether it’s 1st or 2nd half of this year, or beginning of 2016, he’ll let us know.”

Yankees System – The end of Derek Jeter’s career is important to many people on so many levels. But his retirement also marks the end of the homegrown New York Yankees story people tend to forget. With closer Mariano Rivera retiring in 2013, and catcher Jorge Posada retiring in 2011, three of the most successful, important Yankees homegrown players are gone.

Through the years, criticizing the Yankees for not developing players in their farm system has been easy, and that’s certainly due to how much they have and how much they can spend to achieve success. Those three players were an exception to the rule to a large extent.

So what now? Where are the Yankees greatest future possibilities?

If you look for the shining hope, the first face you’d see is reliever Dellin Betances. Yes, a reliever. Ok, not exciting enough? Well, he’s one of those what they call ‘elite relievers’, and they’re tough to come by. With Rivera’s departure, Betances has emerged as his replacement, due to the outstanding numbers he put up in 2014. He’d finish the season setting a franchise record in strikeouts with 135 in 90 innings pitched.

Betances is one of another story of three. He’s the only one of ‘The Three B’s – Betances, Andrew Brackman, and Manny Banuelos- who’s pitched to success with the Yankees. Brackman signed as a free agent with the Cincinnati Reds in 2011, and didn’t play in 2013. According to reports he’s pursuing a career in basketball. Banuelos has been plagued by injuries, spending 2014 in Double-A Trenton.

While in Trenton, Betances was an enigma, but an exciting one. On days he pitched well, he looked like a major leaguer. On days he didn’t, his enormous power to the plate looked sloppy, lacking command, and he struggled to throw strikes and keep the walks to a minimum. He’s on the big stage now, and so far, is living up to the Yankees expectations.

In the midst of all that, Shane Green showed up strong for the Yankees last season, finishing with a 5-4 record and a 3.78 ERA.

There are few players in the system close to major league ready, and most would agree there isn’t a lot of high ceiling talent to pick from. They traded power-hitting catching prospect Peter O’Brien to the Diamondbacks in return for veteran INF Martin Prado. They also acquired third baseman Chase Headley and RHP Brandon McCarthy.

The glimmer spots are RHP Luis Severino , as well as power-bat, outfielder Aaron Judge, RHP Ian Clarkin and third baseman, and Eric Jagielo, all drafted in the first round in 2013.

Those players matter, but it’s unclear whether they matter to the Yankees future or as bargaining chips.

So, for now, all eyes are mainly on the (likely) incoming closer.

Drabek’s Future as Reliever – In 2010, Kyle Drabek was considered, and ranked, one of the top prospects in all of baseball. He led the Toronto Blue Jays system as their number one prospect. Much has changed since he’s underwent two Tommy John surgeries, and been used as a starter and reliever.

At the end of the 2010 season, when Drabek was pitching for the Double-A New Hampshire FisherCats, a reporter in the press box said, “What is he even still doing here?” There was a lot written and said at the end of that season among reporters witnessing his progression. His success at the MLB level seemed inevitable. Proving again nobody knows nothing.

Drabek hasn’t been able to achieve that same success in the majors. His prospect value has dropped. He’s now 27. However, his 2014 season showed reason to believe he can contribute much more, though it’s unclear if that’ll be in the majors. In 99 innings, 32 relief appearances and 13 starts, Drabek finished with a 4.18 ERA and 1.47 WHIP, striking out 68 for the Buffalo Bisons. Hitters went from averaging .297 to .272 off of him, when he pitched out of the bullpen. Drabek made two appearances for the Jays, pitching 3 innings , didn’t allow a hit and struck out five.

Drabek’s story reminds us that there’s no blueprint; but also that the story can be re-written. 2015 is perhaps the most crucial season of his career.

Domestic Violence Policy – This one isn’t exactly MiLB related, but the outcome does matter at the minor league level.

That issue was covered here on HOTF a couple of months ago, but there’s reason to hope for a good outcome, mainly because of Joe Torre. Torre’s own Safe At Home Foundation is a leading organization in helping women victimized by domestic violence. It’s also a subject close to the former Yankees manager’s heart, having coming from a home where he’d witnessed domestic violence. Torre testified before the Senate Commerce Committee in early December, proposing a policy that would “make it easier for the commissioner to impose an appropriate level of discipline on players who commit acts of violence or sexual assault and have that discipline be upheld in arbitration.” The new policy is expected to be introduced this year. (ESPN)

Up to this point, minor league players have received mixed messages about MLB’s stance on such issues. In past incidents, they didn’t take disciplinary action, instead decisions were left up to the team if a player was accused of domestic and/or sexual assault. On the other hand, there’s all that pink stuff for breast cancer awareness. There’s also standards about gambling that are practically viewed as biblical, and in the past few years the crackdown and punishment for use of PED’s has gotten tougher.

By creating a policy that makes clear that violence against women won’t be tolerated by MLB, MiLB players are receiving a new, and just as important message about conduct and consequences.

Posted at 04:25 PM in Arizona Fall League, Baseball, Domestic Violence, Eastern League , Major League Baseball, Midwest League, Minor League Baseball, Minor League Prospects, MLB, New York Penn League, South Atlantic League | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

December 03, 2014

Winter Jobs: Who's Doing What This Off-Season? Updates From Phillies, Rays Players and More

We’re still a few weeks away from the first day of winter, but without being technical, this is the first installment of winter updates on minor league players. Plus, Rays Maxx Tissenbaum checks in from Australia and talks about his winter job- playing baseball.

So here’s a roundup of some guys talking about what they’re doing this off-season.

Lance Durham

For Lance 'Bull' Durham, baseball is the family business. That extends to the off-season.

Durham, the son of former big leaguer Leon, works with his father at a hitting school he’s run since 2004 in Cincinnati. The younger Durham said they have around 50 clients ranging up to college age.

“We basically give one on one hitting lessons to kids from ages 7 to 18. My dad handles most of the older guys. He has some college clients also. And we usually have a 2 hour clinic on Sunday's with the younger kids and it's about 10 of them.”
Durham, 26, was drafted in the 14th round by the Blue Jays in 2009, signed with the Tigers in 2012 as a free agent. He played all of 2014 in High-A Florida State League, primarily as a DH, and hit .221/.304/.315 106 games.

He’s also a new dad, so the winter job is important to his new family. The schedule is tailor-made for those responsibilities.

“It's perfect because I make my own hours and I'm able to be there for my girlfriend and able to get my off season work outs in. It works perfectly.”

Twitter @LanceBullDurham
Instagram @lancebulldurham

Matt Shortall Phillies

When the baseball off-season rolls in, Matt Shortall doesn’t have a job, but a career.

As a Brand Specialist at DNA PR he has a unique role-reversal position in the world of social media and public relations.

“It’s a boutique Public Relations firm that serves "social media personalities" and stores, boutiques, micro-brands,” he said. “I basically work to help develop these brands identities and help them with their social media accounts.”

His other duties include finding new clients and personalities and reaching out to companies in order to receive endorsements. In today’s social media driven world, athletes are building their own self-brand, particularly minor leaguers looking to get their name more well-known. His interest began in college (“I was really involved at my university building an online presence for our team”), and acknowledges that the social media life suits him in both of his careers.

“I'm a bit of a socialite.”

The left fielder hails from Dallas, Texas, and was drafted in the 10th round in 2014 by the Phillies out of Texas-Arlington. He spent all of 2014 with the Short-A Williamsport Crosscutters of the New York Penn League. In 26 games he had 24 hits, with 11 RBI, and 3 home runs.

Twitter @mattshortall

Christian Knott (Rays)

Tampa Bay Rays 2014 draftee Knott (34th round) stayed close to home, and baseball, in his winter venture. He was born in Somers Point New Jersey, and lives in nearby Egg Harbor Township where he grew up, and that’s where he’s coaching this off-season.

“I’ve been coaching a 16u AAU and also giving hitting lessons,” he said. “That, along with my experience playing professional baseball has really allowed me to enjoy this job and be able to help youth to the best of my ability.”

The outfielder played in 39 games for the GCL Rays, finishing the season hitting .248/.362/.384.

Twitter: @Knott_21

Maxx Tissenbaum (Rays)

Tissenbaum recently talked to this blog about heading to Australia to play in the ABL, and in this update he says he’s enjoying the experience, while getting the most out of the extra work.

“The schedule is basically weekends only for games so we've had some time to get out and see different places,” he said. “We're going up to the Great Barrier Reef this weekend because we have a bye week.”

That sounds pretty great, right? Keep in mind that the job of baseball and opportunities to make an impression can quickly slip away. Going to warm locations for extra playing time has perks, but the decision is also survival mode. Tissenbaum, who majored in business at SUNY Stony Brook, has done the regular job circuit as well.

“It’s definitely better than being completely off for the winter. I like the way that the schedule is set up, because it still allows us to have some time away, while also getting to play which is nice. I've had an office job with a company called Splash International Marketing the last few winters, which was great in terms of gaining real work experience, but nothing compares to playing down here experience wise. We have plenty of time to recover and stay rested, and not getting run into the ground.”

As for the results, he’s already seeing the benefit of extending the season.

“It's been a little of everything. Catching three and four games a week gives me the opportunity to receive another 500 pitches a week and work or all the hand actions and receiving moves that are important. I've done a lot of work on my blocking, and throwing, and I'm starting to see all of it really coming out in games. My times to second are going down, my drops are down and missed blocks are down too I think. It's just overall starting to become cleaner as a defensive catcher.”

Drafted by the Padres in 2012, he was traded to the Rays in January of 2014. He was assigned to High-A Charlotte where he had 96 hits and knocked in 51 runs.

Twitter: @8_Maxx

Adam Lopez (White Sox)

Lopez is also going the coaching route this winter, working with former major league hitting coach and minor league hitting coordinator Gregg Ritchie (White Sox, Pirates).

“I am pretty fortunate that I get to work for a former big league hitting coach who runs a 3 month long hitting clinic. I work 5 nights a week giving instruction for 4 hours a night during the week and 6 during the weekend. So lucky that it's something I enjoy, it lasts nearly the entire off season.”

The RHP was drafted by the White Sox in 2012 (21st round), and spent parts of 2014 in rookie league and High-A Carolina after tearing his ACL the year before. After all that, working in baseball must’ve sounded like a great idea this winter.

And, he points out, ultimately there’s that whole bottom line.

“It pays well. In two weeks I make 660 dollars, which is more than I would make in a season.”

Twitter: @Lopezillaaa

Posted at 04:51 PM in Baseball, Florida State League, Midwest League, Minor League Baseball, MLB Draft, New York Penn League | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

October 21, 2014

Arizona Fall League Update: Detroit Tigers Zac Reininger Working on Change

Reliever Zac Reininger spoke yesterday, via text, about the 2014 season in the Midwest League, bouncing back from an injury, and what he's focused on improving in the Arizona Fall League. With the Glendale Desert Dogs,
he's pitched 4 innings in 4 appearances, allowing 4 earned runs on (you guessed it) 4 hits. He's walked 3 batters and struck out...4.

Here's what he had to say Monday:

I felt prepared to go into my first full season. After the long off-season I was ready to get back to playing again. Missing the first month was tough, but I had to bounce back, regain my strength, and get back to one hundred percent. [Reininger finished 2014 with a 2.54 ERA, and allowed 42 hits and 17 walks, while striking out 58 through 56 innings]

I had to make some adjustments. Coach [Mike] Henneman was there to work with me on mechanics, and give me some pointers to help me get heading in the right direction. That helped me stay away from giving batters free passes. I had a few more walks this year than I did the year before. I’m starting to get more movement on the ball, so I had to just adjust that.

[Editor's Note: Reininger suffered a right ankle injury and that was the reason for the lost time to start the season] I took it slow getting back, then felt like I came back better than before.

[Arizona Fall League] is an amazing experience and I’m so glad I get to be part of fall league. I feel like I need to focus on getting control of all four pitches, and work on getting my changeup where it needs to be to continue moving up in my career.

Here's a 2013 interview with Reininger, when he talked to this blog about his transition to the bullpen:
http://www.highheelsonthefield.net/my_weblog/2014/01/drafted-by-tigers-in-deep-pitching-class-zac-reininger-answers-the-call-to-the-pen.html

He was named New York Penn League 'Reliever of the Year' here that same year:

http://www.highheelsonthefield.net/my_weblog/2013/09/2013-new-york-penn-league-awards.html

Photo courtesy of MiLB.com

Over On Minor League Ball....

Yesterday my piece went up for Minor League Ball on fall league participants that included Rays pitcher Jaime Schultz, and Mets outfielder Brandon Nimmo, and second baseman LJ Mazzilli. Having covered all three in the New York Penn League and Eastern Leagues, I reviewed their careers to this point, as well as their future potential, and their early fall league results.

http://www.minorleagueball.com/2014/10/20/6977867/spotlight-on-prospects-getting-arizona-fall-league-time

Thank you to Matthew Cerrone for highlighting parts of the story on Mets Blog.

Posted at 02:33 PM in Arizona Fall League, Baseball, Midwest League, Minor League Baseball, Minor League Prospects | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

July 25, 2014

The 2014 MiLB Twitter Twenty

Welcome to year four of the list.

This year I expanded the focus to include how far players social-media reach is. Players that have a big presence on Instagram and/or blog (and, as you’ll see, “vlog”) played a part in the decision process. This is still about the Twitter game. But the more players connect, the bigger their following and impact. And the deeper their connection to their followers, which is what I pay the most attention to (humor is a close second).

Honorable Mentions are expanded and players that don’t tweet often, but bring it when they do, are given a nod. Don’t think of HM’s as less valuable players (wink); they’re all guys whose content I read constantly throughout the year and deserved inclusion. Sometimes their inclusion could be one or two tweets that made me laugh or was just something readers really responded to.

The difficult part was excluding players from the ‘Twenty’ that are still with a professional team or were as early as Spring Training, but weren’t on any roster this season (they were included on HM’s); also difficult was dropping players down that, as entertaining or interesting as they are, aren’t sharing a lot very often. The point of this list is to give a bigger spotlight to minor leaguers that engage and entertain and do that pretty regularly. With Twitter they’re building their own following long before they reach the big leagues.

These are the champs.

1. Cody Decker @Decker6 – He continues his reign at #1 for the second year, doing all the things that endear him to fans and followers. Yet again, he took on a critic questioning his talent, though this time instead of a journalist, it was a Padres fan. He didn’t back down, despite the possibility of rattling a Padres faithful. His daily jokes are as smart as they are creative. “ ‘For every action there is an unequal and opposite overreaction.’ Newtons Third Law of Ex Girlfriends.” Earlier this season he anchored the sports desk for KTSM in El Paso, Texas. In full three piece suit and wearing one of his signature bowties (find it on YouTube). He's also made popular videos that you can find on YouTube. It's hard to believe he's not on Instagram, because we can only imagine how fun he'd make that. Regardless, he's hard to beat if you want to be entertained, and none was able to dethrone him… (Padres)
2. Wes Wilson @wtwilson5- …But this guy came close. He’s one of the most fun, interesting minor league players on Twitter. He’s freely talked politics with candor and level-headedness. And he’s embraced a multi-media way of expression, reaching beyond Twitter to create his own vlog, which is a regular feature for the Tampa Yankees (#WesCam). ‘Wes’s Womb’ (yep) is a mixture of interviews with teammates, highlights of minor league baseball life, and his own unique humor. The task of choosing which tweets to highlight was tough. Here’s a few from his Starbucks trips: “I gotta be lookin’ a fool bumpin’ Iggy Azalea, but I’m gettin’ my bump on my second coffee.” “I think this dude just walked in with a desktop computer.” “This woman just ordered something with 11 words.” By the way, his bio even says he'll one day be a presidential candidate, though it's unclear if he's serious. Tweet him about that. Odds are, he'll have a great answer. (Yankees)
3. Michael Schlact @Michael_Schlact - There's no one like Michael. He's used the Twitter platform to share spiritual inspiration & personal beliefs. When he went on a mission, he took to Twitter and Instagram to record the experience. He’s used the Twitter machine to produce an image, that’s no image at all, but a guy connecting to fans in a heartfelt, positive way. He’s consistently expressed his dedication to baseball, even when he wasn’t sure where his career was going. A recent tweet showed just about everything you need to know: 'How can Jillian [wife] and I pray for you today?' (Wichita Wingnuts)
4. Maxx Tissenbaum @8_Maxx – Brand new to this list, he skipped the lower levels and jumped into the top five. His blog ‘Red, White, and the 3-0 Green Light’ is the main reason for his push toward the top. The thorough, entertaining, creative effort impresses more with every entry. He’s also made Instagram a part of his connection with fans, something minor leaguers have gotten into even more since last year’s list. He tweeted about his need to write, saying, “Gotta get some coffee so I’m awake enough to write on the bus.” Spoken like a true baseball writer. (Although we’re usually looking for help at about quarter to 11 on the PM side). (Rays)
5 Jeremy Barfield @BarfieldRage – A repeat top five player he’s been a huge Twitter presence for a long time, and let's mention this stat: 40+K followers. He’s built a huge following by being consistently active, and interactive, on Twitter. His casual down to earth tone makes him super likeable. I liked this feminist (look that word up) take on pageants: ‘’Guys who tweet live pageants deserve girls that live tweet ‘The Bachelor.’” He might’ve meant something different than both things tend to insult intelligent minds, but it’s a great example of his sharp-minded wit. And you gotta love this battle cry: Good luck to all the young pups with the draft but if you think you’re gonna come take my job, you got another thing coming meat!’ (Athletics)
6.Justin Toole @Tooleyj24 - When Toole published his book '9 in 9' in 2013, he utilized Twitter to promote the project, reaching many fans and media outlets. That kind of connection is what social media is so good for, especially for guys in the minors. He built a buzz pre-release, tracked reader reviews with retweets, and used giveaways to attract more readers. One of the most impressive ways a minor leaguer's ever connected on Twitter. (Indians)
7. Marcus Stroman @MStrooo7 - A Twitter devotee, he's always sharing some part of his life and career. Whether it's congratulating a teammate, his soon-to-be-wed sister, or tweeting out life wisdom ("Know yourself. Know your worth."), he's consistently connecting. (Blue Jays)
8. Justin Jackson @JaxChillinONE - One of the best things about Jackson is the way he reaches out to followers. He's always starting conversation and loves the interaction, be it asking readers to tweet their thoughts on XBox One or favorite music, he wants to engage. Loved that he paid tribute to Maya Angelou upon her passing. He also shows constant appreciation for the game he plays for a living: "One of those mornings I've been reflecting about how blessed I am to play this game", he tweeted from his Instagram, another one of his social media favorites. (Blue Jays)
9. Jiwan James @Jiwan23 - He's a daily guy. He's got a lot of interests and freely expresses himself in the warm, entertaining way he always has: "Pretty girls that smoke" he tweeted with a disappointed emoticon. And who on the East coast can't relate to this? "Wait to be seated at IHOP or make the first of many trips to WaWa?" He also could've hashtagged that #MiLBLife. (Phillies)
10. Bryan Harper @BryanHarper45 – He’s a huge sports fan and tweets his enthusiasm regularly for his favorite teams. He’s also a big family guy (check his background image) and his Mother’s Day tweets were especially great. He remembered Mom of course, but his sister too. “Happy Mother’s Day to my sister! Thank you for blessing me with a nephew and now a niece!” There’s also been a lot of talk about that mustache and he has a lot of fun with that. (Nationals)
11. Ian Kendall @Ian_RK91 - Not on Twitter all the time, but you'll get your laughs when he is: "Just spent $20 on candles." "Why did they cancel 'Pimp My Ride'? I thought it was quality television." "Up and at em...meaning laying in bed for another hour." And there was something kind of cool about this thought: "I don't want to grow up but I've grown." (Rays)
12. Corey Black @CblackCHC - The funnest part of Black's Twitter feed is the micro-tweets about any random thing. He's also as honest as he wants to be: "That's exactly why I don't tweet cause y'all have no lives." ; "I still don't get why I'm a "reliever". Hahaha I get it I'm short. Jeez one inch would go a long way for me." (Cubs)
13. Ryan Verdugo @teachmetodugi11 - Verdugo shared his feelings about his recent trade to the Red Sox by thanking Royals fans he'd played for, and with trademark humor. He posted a photo of himself still in a Royals uniform with the caption "Awkward." This observation was interesting“I don’t know what has more blowouts right now the MLB or the boardwalk of Jersey." (over/under?) His best tweet might've been about World Cup soccer. He tweeted a photo from the greatest movie of all time, 'Superbad', with one of the movie's most memorable quotes "Calm down Greg. It's soccer." (Red Sox)
14. Taijuan Walker @tai_walker - If Walker didn't have the tweet of the year, than he came close: "I was sweating so much meeting @alfonso_ribeiro today." But seriously (that actually was serious), his positive, fun flow is always present on Twitter. Those 19+K folowers aren't too shabby, either. (Mariners)
15. Lance Durham @LanceBullDurham -...Durham might've had the best Instagram photo of any minor leaguer this year, which he proudly tweeted. He and his girlfriend announced via IG that she was pregnant by staging a photo of the couple sitting at a table, with a jar of Prego spaghetti sauce in front of them, and mocked terror on their faces. Since then, he's tweeted excitedly about pending fatherhood. An aweseome example of allowing fans to make a personal connection through social media. (Tigers)
16. Anthony Giansanti @GianSanity - He paid awesome tributer to retiring Yankee captain Derek Jeter: "As a passionate ball player since I could walk, moments like that will forever make my eyes water. Thank you Captain, you're a hero #RE2PECT", "If you're a baseball fan you appreciate what Derek Jeter has done and how he's done it. #UltimatePro". When he made an incredible outfield catch, he asked followers to retweet the clip so ESPN would notice. They should've. He went face first into the wall and tweeted humorously about the wicked wound he got from the nail he hit. (Cubs)
17. Ian Kadish @TheBearJew_36 - A super friendly, fun guy, he shares a lot about his family and baseball life with good-natured candor. "Sleeping on a yoga mat tonight...on the floor of a bus... #Allpartofit #IndyBallLife". When he was traded to the Indiana NAME, he tweeted the adventure of driving on the Fouth of July to play for them. "Welp guys I'm on the road again...traded this time to Gary, Indiana! Home of Michael Jackson!" That upbeat tone is a marked characterstic and shows up often on his Twitter. (Gary Southshore RailCats)
18. Kevin Vance @SorryBoutIt10 – There's a lot of "Crushing", feeling "Emotions" and getting "Fired Up" tweets, and he's all about high energy and self-expression. Impossible not to like him. In case you haven't head how he feels about a minor league staple: "Taco Bell is better than Chipotle." Chipotle is his Lex Luthor. (White Sox)
19. Trevor May @TrevMay54 - Recent road trip tweets with his girlfriend were fun to read (though if you go to her timeline @kateishere is even funnier to read) Then there's one of the tweets that make May an interesting guy to follow: "Self-analysis is the key to self-awareness." #Existentialism (Twins)
20. Jeremy Dowdy @Dowdy413 - Made it to the twenty by keeping a consistent fun vibe going all year. "Autocorrect just corrected "bad" to "bae"... Who's been using my phone?" "It's hard to beat music from the 90's." and he rang in birthday number 25 with a 15 inning game and tweeted about the experience. (White Sox)

Here’s the players that missed making the top twenty, but couldn’t be excluded. These guys deserve your follow.

Honorable Mentions:

Courtney Hawkins @CHawkins10 (White Sox)
Beau Wright @LeftButWright35 – The toughest part of this list was not including him in the twenty. He’s not on any roster this season. But he brings it daily, throughout the day. He’s a ball of energy and fun, so follow him to see where he winds up.
Michael McCarthy @mmcarthy35 (Red Sox)
Ryan Sherriff @KingSherriff (Cardinals)
Tommy Joseph @_TommyJoseph_ (Phillies)
Craig Missigman @craigmiss54 (Mets)
Chris Rivera @ChrisRivera217 (Cardinals)
Dustin Driver @dustindriver27 (Athletics)
Ty Buttrey @TyButtrey (Red Sox)
Josh Fellhauer – ‘Fellosophies.’ Look 'em up. (Reds)
Bradley Goldberg @B_Gumbo30 (White Sox)
Jamie Callahan @JCallahan15 (Red Sox)
Derrick Chung @therealthing6 (Blue Jays)
Darryl George @DarrylRoyGeorge - He's tweeted video of his on-the-field pre-game dance-offs. #MustSee (Rays)
Donnie Hart @DonnieHart06 (Orioles)
Jacob Faria @JDFaria48 (Rays)
Conrad Gregor @conradgregor55 (Astros)
Michael Crouse @_crouse_ (Blue Jays)
Julian Ridings @JRIDINGS_4 (Rays)
Pat Light @Pat_Light (Red Sox)
Travis Shaw @travis_shaw21 (Red Sox)
Tim Giel @TimmyGiel (Yankees)
Brett Geritse (Yankees)
Ali Castillo @alicastillo19 (Yankees)
Lenny Linsky @alohalinsky (Rays)
Jordan Cote @JordanCote603
Will Anderson @Willthethrill37 (Cardinals)
Jayson Hernandez- His devotion to public service shined when he helped organize 'Grandslam For Sandy', to benefit Hurricane Sandy victims and their families. (Red Sox)
Jonathon Berti @jonny_hustle (Blue Jays)
Cody Livesay @Livec1 (Braves)
Jared Wilson @DubsDeuces (Twins)
Rookie Davis @rookdavis24 (Yankees)
David Buchanan @davidb413 (Phillies)
Chase Vallot @Chase_Vallot (Royals)
Cale Coshow @c_coshow (Yankees)
Victor Black @Vic_Black_2 - "Sunday funday...That means no run day! I look forward to you all week #neverletsmedown." (Mets)
Antonio Nuñez @nunezlife03 (Astros)
Taylor Cole @Taylor_JCole (Blue Jays)
Matt Snyder @Matt33Snyder (Yankees)
Jared Mortensen @jaredmortensen1 (Rays)
Ali Solis @aSoLis44 (Rays)
Matthew Boyd @mattboyd31 (Blue Jays)
Will Gabay @GaBaY_WG_24 (Rays)
Jack Mayfield @jackmayfield8 (Astros)
Ryan Gunther @Gunther_7 (Braves)
Jake Hager @JakeHager1 (Rays)
Ryan Dent @RDdeucess (Red Sox)
Blair Walters @bwalters34 (Braves)
Stone Speer – @StoneSpeer He’s regularly all over Twitter. And he gets wild with it. Pretty sure he tweeted thanks to every single person that wished him Happy Birthday. On MLB Draft Day he rooted for friends on the board and congratulated friends selected. He's also funny AND cocky ("Handsome and wealthy" he tweeted). (Rays)
Dash Winningham @WinninghamDash (Mets)
Brad Meyers @bradmeyers29 (Nationals)
Zac Reininger @Reininger18 (Tigers)
Chris Costantino @Chriscos21 (Braves)
Chipper Smith @Chipper_Smith3 (Marlins)
Wynston Sawyer @WynSawyer (Orioles)
Will Anderson @Willthethrill37 (Cardinals)
Taylor Guerrieri @TaylorG1201 (Rays)
Vince Belnome @VBelnome1 (Rays)
Johnny Magliozzi @Money_Mags (Mets)
jp crawford @jp_crawford (Phillies)
Brian Holmes @BHolmes130 (Astros)
Rob Whalen @RobWhalen38- "Highlight of my day? Threw a perfect game with 20Ks in #MLBTheShow14 #NoBigDeal #LoveOffDays". (Mets)
Caleb Smith @CalebASmith12 (Yankees)
Dario Pizzano @DarioPizzano25 (Mariners
Chris Kirsch @chriskirsch9 (Rays)
Jason Martin @_JM55 (Astros)
Shane Watson @Shane40Sw (Phillies)
Alec Asher @TheBigCat28 (Rangers)
Jarrett Casey @JCasey13 (White Sox)
Dayton Dawe @DaytonDawe22 (Yankees)
Guido Knudson @GKnudson15 (Tigers)
Scott DeCecco @Dececco33 - His bio says he's the backup singer for Kings of Leon. If this is true, he maybe should've been in the Twitter Twenty. (Mariners)
Justin Fitzgerald @jfitzgerald31 (Diamondbacks)
Deck McGuire @deckmcguire (Blue Jays)
Cody Buckel @Cheatcode07 (Rangers)
Tony Thomas @GoldGlover2B (Twins)
Scott Carcaise ‏@SCarcaise (Marlins)
Taylor Motter @taylormotter7 (Rays)
Ryan Carpenter @R_Carpenter22 (Rockies)
John Mincone @JMincone (Mets) – Tweets about his love for his girlfriend & is a big Instagram guy, often posting photos of his close-knit family.
Rob Wooten @RobWooten35 (Brewers)
Reese McGuire ‏@Reese_McGuire21 (Pirates)
Greg Nappo @Nappo41 (Marlins)
Mike Meyers @Meyers_MJ (Red Sox)
Kevin Keyes @KevinJKeyes (Nationals)
Cameron Monger @CameronMonger (Frontier Grays)
Tucker Jensen @Tucker_Jensen (Gateway Grizzlies)
Stew Brase @sbrase12 (Southern Illinois Miners)
Brandon Douglas @BrandonDouglas5 (Tigers)
Erik Turgeon @ErikTurgeon (Pirates)
K.J. Woods @KJWoods22 - "Social media can ruin your life." (Marlins)

Posted at 09:00 PM in Atlantic League, Baseball, Can-Am League, Eastern League , Florida State League, Independent League , International League, Major League Baseball, Midwest League, Minor League Baseball, Minor League Prospects, New York Penn League, Northwest League, Pacific Coast League, South Atlantic League, Southern League, Texas League | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

May 09, 2014

Renegades 2013 MVP Darryl George 'Fueled' By Flying Under The Radar

The Bowling Green Hot Rods didn't lose hope.

Despite a losing streak that stretched on for two weeks, the Hot Rods, Midwest League affiliate of the the Tampa Bay Rays, stayed upbeat because, well, that's what they have to do. Losing streaks, like winning streaks, come and they go.

What Darryl George and his teammates did made all the difference mentally, if not on the field.

"You're going to have those tough stretches. The fact that we stayed competitive everyday, even though we were losing, kept morale from getting too low," George said Friday. "We were always in the game. We did our best and you have to have that short memory in baseball."

George is coming off an outstanding season with the Hudson Valley Renegades, of the New York Penn League (short season). In 61 games (a career-high) he hit .286 with 65 hits, 18 RBI, and 77 total bases. He finished the season being named by the Rays as Hudson Valley Renegades Team MVP. [Read my 2013 FanGraphs report on George http://www.fangraphs.com/fantasy/renegades-darryl-george-strong-finish-at-the-plate/

The Aussie spent the off-season building on that success and improving his swing, while playing winter ball with the Melbourne Aces.

"I made a couple of adjustments. I'm using the whole field more, staying through the zone longer. This year my power is slightly better. I'm able to hit both sides of the plate. I'm getting more off-speed pitches in this league, which I'm not used to. But I'm hitting good and feeling comfortable."

So far this season George is hitting .317 with 13 hits, putting together a five-game streak in April with 10 in that span.

His success and focus are a product of an unwavering drive. He points out that he's probably not the highest ranked Rays prospect, but that doesn't deter him. Exactly the opposite.

"I have that underdog mentality. I'm overlooked a little bit, but that's fuel for the fire. I hustle as much as I can. I've set goals for myself for this season. I want to be a premium defender, be consistent, and play as many positions as I can."

Signed by the Rays as a non-drafted Free Agent in 2010, George has cultivated an attitude that has served him well. Pushing himself is the daily goal.

"When I walk off the field, I want to have the dirtiest jersey."

You can follow Darryl George on Twitter @DarrylRoyGeorge & on Instagram @DGEORGE14

Ready my continuing coverage of Rays Triple-A Durham Bulls for Minor League Ball, as well as league-wide coverage there and here all season. Last year's Hudson Valley coverage can be found in links below.