The Triple-A Norfolk Tides dropped their third consecutive game, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds also suffered a loss.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees 12, Norfolk Tides 6 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher David Hernandez (1-1) struck out nine hitters, but he couldn't limit the scoring in the Tides' 12-6 loss to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 23-year-old right-hander allowed six runs (five earned) and six hits, including two home runs, in five innings against the Yankees.

Norfolk left fielder Nolan Reimold was 2-for-4 with a home run, two RBIs and two runs scored. The home run was Reimold's seventh in 2009, which puts him in second place in the International League in that category.

Tides third baseman Scott Moore added a two-run home run, and catcher Robby Hammock was 3-for-4 with a double and two RBIs. Every Norfolk player had at least one hit in the game, but it wasn't enough offense to lead to a win.

Scranton/Wilkes-Barre right fielder Shelley Duncan hit two home runs in the game, which gives him the league lead with nine this season.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Greensboro Grasshoppers 7, Delmarva Shorebirds 3 (Box score)

Recap: The Shorebirds jumped in front with two runs in the top of the first inning. Greensboro, however, scored twice in the bottom of the frame and never looked back, beating Delmarva, 7-3.

Delmarva starting pitcher Ryan O'Shea (1-1) gave up six runs and 11 hits in 4 1/3 innings. Relief pitcher Joe Esposito allowed one run and one hit in 2 2/3 innings. He issued three walks and struck out three hitters in the game.

Right fielder Ronnie Welty was 2-for-5 with two doubles for the Shorebirds, and first baseman Joe Mahoney stayed hot with two hits and an RBI. Designated hitter Elvin Polanco added two hits in Delmarva's loss.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Game recaps
        

It's funny how opinions evolve over time.

When I first heard about Twitter, I thought it was extremely useless and refused to join.

Despite watching several thousand people jump on the bandwagon and sign up for the social networking platform, I still declined to register.

But my stubborn attitude is finally in the past.

Tom Sedlacek, the communications manager for the Double-A Bowie Baysox, e-mailed me yesterday to let me know the team was now registered on Twitter for fans to follow.

That's when I knew it was time to catch up to the rest of society and join.

If fans are able to follow minor league baseball on Twitter -- which I think is a tremendous idea, by the way -- they should also be able to follow their favorite blog about the topic (that's O's on Deck, I hope).

You can follow the Baysox on Twitter by clicking here. My Twitter page can be found here, and I hope to provide news about minor league baseball -- and other sports -- in the future.

I've been playing around with the Web site for about 20 minutes now, and it's extremely addictive. If you don't have an account on Twitter already, I recommend signing up and inviting your friends and family to stay in touch with your life.

Don't forget to check out the Facebook fan page for O's on Deck by clicking here. I admit it's been struggling lately, but I'm going to try to update it more in the future. Also, feel free to upload pictures and videos from games that you attend. There are already some good shots on the page.

You can also become a fan of the various affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system by finding them on my Facebook profile.

I wonder if there are jobs for people to play around on Twitter all day posting updates. I think it might be something to pursue in my future endeavors.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 3:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

It's not a good day if you want to catch some minor league baseball in person.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds hit the road, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox and Single-A Frederick Keys are idle.

The Baysox will return to Prince George's Stadium to face the Akron Aeros Friday night, while the Keys travel to play a three-game series against the Potomac Nationals.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Hernandez (1-0, 3.07 ERA)
Scranton/Wilkes-Barre: Kei Igawa (2-0, 6.75 ERA)

Notes

* Hernandez gave up three runs and five hits in six innings against the Durham Bulls on April 23. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out eight hitters and issued one walk in the Tides' 4-3 victory. Hernandez is tied for fifth in the International League with 23 strikeouts, but all of the pitchers listed above him have one more start. Gwinnett Braves starting pitcher Tommy Hanson is first with 29 strikeouts.

* Igawa is 2-0 this season despite allowing 14 runs (12 earned) and 16 hits in 16 innings during his first three starts. The 29-year-old left-hander was roughed up in his last start against the Rochester Red Wings on April 25, but the Yankees rallied for a 17-14 victory in 13 innings. Igawa gave up eight runs (six earned) and nine hits -- including four home runs -- in four innings during the game.

* The Tides are currently on a two-game losing streak, and they are in second place in the South Division. Norfolk is 11-7, which is 1/2 game behind the division-leading Durham Bulls (12-7). Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (16-3) holds a four-game lead over the Syracuse Chiefs (11-6) in the North Division. The Yankees are 11-1 on the road this season.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Greensboro Grasshoppers (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Ryan O'Shea (1-0, 2.81 ERA)
Greensboro: Johnny Dorn (1-1, 2.86 ERA)

Notes

* O'Shea earned his first victory this season in his last start against the Lake County Captains on April 24. The 22-year-old right-hander allowed one run and four hits in five innings. He struck out seven hitters and issued two walks in the Shorebirds' 5-1 win. Overall, O'Shea gave up five runs and 15 hits in 16 innings during his first three starts in 2009.

* Dorn pitched five scoreless innings against the West Virginia Power on April 25, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 23-year-old right-hander collected three strikeouts and gave up six hits in Greensboro's 2-1 loss. After allowing five runs in his first start against the Greenville Drive on April 9, Dorn has only surrendered two runs in his past three games.

* Delmarva's Joe Mahoney hit successfully in his past seven games. During that span, the 22-year-old first baseman is batting .467 (14-for-30) with four RBIs and three stolen bases. Overall, Mahoney is tied for second in the South Atlantic League with a .397 batting average in 15 games. The 6-foot-7, 255-pound infielder also has seven stolen bases without being caught in 2009.

* After two straight victories, the Shorebirds are currently leading the Northern Division in the South Atlantic League with an 11-6 record. Delmarva is 1/2 game ahead of the Kannapolis Intimidators (12-8). The Lakewood BlueClaws are in third place (11-8), while Greensboro is fourth with an 11-9 record.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

Position changes can be tough but Single-A Frederick Keys right fielder Billy Rowell seems to be enjoying his shift to the outfield.

“[Orioles director of player development] David Stockstill and I talked in the offseason, and we thought it was a good move for this season to do that, so I feel like it’s a positive,” Rowell said about his jump from third base to right field.

While he didn’t make the decision to transition away from the infield, Rowell accepts the move and hopes to use it to his benefit.

“[The Orioles] wanted to take a little pressure off me at third base,” Rowell said. “Right field isn’t as demanding of a position ... so I can concentrate more on my hitting.”

The 20-year-old outfielder struggled at the beginning of the season -- both in the field and at the plate -- but he is playing well recently.

In his past 10 games, Rowell is batting .361 (13-for-36) with four doubles, two RBIs and seven runs scored.

The 6-foot-5, 205-pound outfielder is hitting .284 with one home run and six RBIs in 20 games for the Keys. Rowell is tied for 10th in the Carolina League with six doubles in 2009 -- teammate Brandon Waring is tied for fifth -- and he is third on the team with 11 runs scored.

Despite his recent success, Rowell still needs to reduce his strikeouts. He has struck out 20 times this season, including 12 in the past 10 games. His plate discipline seems to be improving, however, with 10 walks so far in 2009.

Defensively, Rowell is still learning to play the outfield.

"Everyone in the organization knew he was going to make some mistakes early in the season, but that's probably his best position, to be honest with you, in the outfield," Keys manager Richie Hebner said.

Rowell says he feels more comfortable in his second season with Frederick. “I know what to expect now," Rowell said. "I know what the league is about. I know the traveling and all of that stuff.”

"I just [have to] take that and capitalize on it,” Rowell added.

The Orioles’ first-round selection in the 2006 MLB draft hopes to improve on the fundamentals this season.

“You have to work on all facets of your game,” Rowell said. “I’m just looking for a good winning season, and I feel like this team is going to have an exciting year.”

“Just do the little things every day to reach the big leagues,” he added. “Hopefully, I can do that this year and put up some good numbers.”

Rowell isn’t sure if the move to the outfield is permanent, but he knows the chances of making it to the major leagues increase if you’re able to play multiple positions.

“We’re just taking it year by year,” Rowell said. “It just really opens up a lot of possibilities. ... "Every day you learn something, how to be a professional ... just how to carry yourself on and off the field,” he said. “And I feel like I’ve done that. I just need to keep it up.”

Ultimately, Rowell knows that his path to the major leagues is dependent upon his approach at the plate.

“Hitting is going to get you to the big leagues,” he said. “That’s what I’m really concentrating on this year.”

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 6:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (12)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides were swept in a two-game series by the Gwinnett Braves, while the Single-A Frederick Keys also lost today.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds were both victorious.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Gwinnett Braves 8, Norfolk Tides 6 (Box score)

Recap: Orioles pitcher Rich Hill (0-1) allowed two runs and one hit in 3 1/3 innings during his second rehab start, and the Tides suffered an 8-6 loss to Gwinnett.

The 29-year-old left-hander struck out five hitters, issued one walk and allowed a two-run home run to Braves center fielder Gregor Blanco with two outs in the third inning. Hill retired the first eight hitters in the game before walking Gwinnett shortstop Antonio Perez and giving up the home run to Blanco.

Tides center fielder Justin Christian was 3-for-5 with his first home run of the season, a double and three runs scored. First baseman Oscar Salazar collected three hits and two RBIs for Norfolk, while designated hitter Robby Hammock was 2-for-4 with two RBIs.

Relief pitcher Ross Wolf surrendered four runs and three hits in 2 2/3 innings, which was the first time he allowed an opponent to score in 2009.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 6, Erie SeaWolves 1 (Box score)

Recap: Baysox second baseman Miguel Abreu was 5-for-5 with a double and two runs scored in the team's 6-1 victory over Erie. Catcher Adam Donachie was 3-for-3 with an RBI, two walks and two runs scored for Bowie.

Brandon Erbe (1-3) pitched well again for the Baysox, and he was able to pick up the victory for the first time in 2009. The 21-year-old right-hander allowed three hits in six scoreless innings against the SeaWolves. Bowie relief pitcher Wilfrido Perez tossed 1 1/3 innings without giving up a hit.

Bowie first baseman Melvin Dorta and center fielder Ambiorix Concepcion each added an RBI.

Alfredo Figaro, who was scheduled to start for the SeaWolves, didn't pitch due to a sore back. In his place, Jay Sborz (0-1) gave up four runs (two earned) and four hits in 3 1/3 innings.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Winston-Salem Dash 9, Frederick Keys 4 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher John Mariotti (1-1) allowed four runs and five hits in five innings, and the Keys suffered a 9-4 loss to Winston-Salem. The 24-year-old right-hander collected five strikeouts and walked three batters.

Frederick left fielder Kraig Binick was 1-for-4 with his second home run in as many days -- a solo shot in the first inning. Third baseman Brandon Waring was 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored for the Keys.

First baseman Chris Vinyard, catcher Caleb Joseph and designated hitter Billy Killian added an RBI each in the loss.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 8, Lakewood BlueClaws 1 (Box score)

Recap: The Shorebirds collected a season-high 19 hits in an 8-1 victory over Lakewood on Wednesday morning at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

Delmarva right fielder Ronnie Welty led the attack by going 4-for-4 with a double, four RBIs and two runs scored. Designated hitter Joe Mahoney was 3-for-5 with two RBIs, and center fielder Xavier Avery collected three hits for the Shorebirds.

Left fielder Kyle Hudson and second baseman LJ Hoes each added two hits and scored two runs for Delmarva, while first baseman Elvin Polanco and shortstop Greg Miclat both had a multi-hit game.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Cole McCurry (1-0) earned the victory after giving up one run and six hits in 5 2/3 innings. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out four hitters. Pat Egan tossed a scoreless inning for Delmarva. The 24-year-old right-hander hasn't allowed a run in nine innings this season.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Three of the four full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system will play during the day, while the Triple-A Norfolk Tides conclude their two-game series against the Gwinnett Braves at 7:15 p.m.

Norfolk placed starting pitcher Jason Berken on the disabled list, retroactive to April 27, with a groin injury. The 25-year-old right-hander left his last start on April 26 against the Durham Bulls after three innings.

Also, the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds announced that right-hander Andy Schindling was released by the Orioles today. The 22-year-old relief pitcher allowed nine runs (eight earned) in two innings for the Shorebirds this season. He only gave up four hits, but walked six hitters in three appearances.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Gwinnett Braves (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Rich Hill (rehab assignment)
Gwinnett: Todd Redmond (0-1, 3.86 ERA)

Notes

* Hill is expected to throw between 65 to 70 pitches in his second rehab start, according to Orioles manager Dave Trembley. The 29-year-old left-hander allowed one run and one hit in his first rehab appearance for the Single-A Frederick Keys on April 24. Hill struck out three batters and didn't allow any walks in the game.

* Redmond gave up five runs (two earned) and eight hits in five innings against the Charlotte Knights on April 23. The 23-year-old right-hander collected two strikeouts and walked one batter in Gwinnett's 7-5 loss. Redmond allowed three runs (two earned) and four hits in 4 1/3 innings against the Tides on April 18.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Erie SeaWolves (11:05 a.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Brandon Erbe (0-3, 1.29 ERA)
Erie: Alfredo Figaro (2-0, 0.96 ERA)

Notes

* Erbe can't seem to catch a break in 2009. The 21-year-old right-hander allowed seven runs in 14 innings during his first three starts, but only two were earned. Still, he is 0-3 this season despite having a 1.29 ERA. Erbe collected 16 strikeouts and issued seven walks in his first three games. He allowed one earned run and seven hits in five innings against the Reading Phillies in his last start on April 24.

* In three starts so far this season for Erie, Figaro only gave up two runs and eight hits in 18 2/3 innings. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out 17 hitters and issued five walks in that span. Figaro allowed two runs and three hits in six innings against the Harrisburg Senators on April 23. He collected eight strikeouts and walked one batter in the game.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Winston-Salem Dash (12 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: John Mariotti (1-0, 2.30 ERA)
Winston-Salem: Johnnie Lowe (1-0, 3.86 ERA)

Notes

* Mariotti is scheduled to make his second start of the season for the Keys. The 24-year-old right-hander gave up one run and two hits in five innings out of the bullpen against the Potomac Nationals on April 24. Mariotti struck out 16 hitters and issued three walks in 15 2/3 innings during his first five appearances in 2009.

* Lowe allowed three runs and four hits in six innings against the Wilmington Blue Rocks in his last start on April 24. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out five hitters and walked one in Winston-Salem's 6-5 victory. Overall, opponents are batting .220 against Lowe in 2009, and right-handed hitters are only hitting .115.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Lakewood BlueClaws (10:35 a.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (0-0, 1.13 ERA)
Lakewood: Jesus Sanchez (1-1, 5.06 ERA)

Notes

* McCurry is still searching for his first victory in 2009, but that doesn't mean he hasn't pitched well. The 23-year-old left-hander allowed two runs and five hits in six innings against the Lake County Captains in his last start on April 23. McCurry struck out seven batters and issued two walks in the game. Overall, he collected 18 strikeouts in 16 innings during his first three starts.

* Sanchez is scheduled to make his second start of the season against the Shorebirds. The 21-year-old right-hander, who used to be a catcher, allowed three runs in 2/3 of an inning against Delmarva on April 12. He walked three hitters and collected two strikeouts in the game. In his last start, however, Sanchez tossed five scoreless innings with nine strikeouts against the Hagerstown Suns on April 23.

* Kyle Hudson is currently on a seven-game hitting streak for the Shorebirds. The 22-year-old outfielder is batting .375 (9-for-24) during that stretch. Last night, Hudson picked up three stolen bases, which puts him in fourth place in the South Atlantic League for the season (nine).

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides suffered a blowout loss, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox were edged in extra innings.

The Single-A Frederick Keys and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds both earned close victories.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Gwinnett Braves 8, Norfolk Tides 2 (Box score)

Recap: Gwinnett scored four runs in the top of the first inning against Tides starting pitcher Chris Waters (2-2) and never looked back. The Braves beat Norfolk, 8-2, at Harbor Park.

Waters allowed five runs (four earned) and seven hits in 5 2/3 innings. The 28-year-old left-hander walked four hitters and collected one strikeout.

Norfolk first baseman Oscar Salazar extended his hitting streak to 14 games with a double. Center fielder Justin Christian added two hits for the Tides, and catcher Matt Wieters was 1-for-4 with two RBIs.

Tides relief pitcher Radhames Liz gave up three runs and five hits in 2 1/3 innings.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Erie SeaWolves 5, Bowie Baysox 4, 11 innings (Box score)

Recap: Baysox starting pitcher Troy Patton only allowed two runs and six hits in six innings, but the bullpen couldn't hold the lead in the 5-4 loss to Erie. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out five hitters and issued one walk.

Center fielder Miguel Abreu and second baseman Paco Figueroa each collected two hits and an RBI for the Baysox. First baseman Brandon Snyder was 1-for-4 with an RBI, and left fielder Jonathan Tucker added a double, a run scored and an RBI.

Bowie relief pitcher Chad Thall was charged with two runs and two hits in 1 1/3 innings, while Ryan Rodriguez gave up the winning run after getting two outs in the 11th.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 6, Winston-Salem Dash 4 (Box score)

Recap: Left fielder Kraig Binick was 3-for-5 with a home run and three RBIs in the Keys' 6-4 victory over Winston-Salem.

Frederick catcher Wally Crancer was 2-for-5 with a solo home run and two runs scored, while first baseman Chris Vinyard also went deep in the game.

Every player in Frederick's starting lineup had at least one hit. Right fielder Billy Rowell and third baseman Brandon Waring collected two hits each.

Keys starting pitcher Tim Bascom (2-2) earned the victory after allowing two runs and seven hits in six innings. Luis Lebron recorded the final four outs to pick up his third save this season.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 2, Lakewood BlueClaws 1 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Rick Zagone (2-1) struck out seven hitters in six innings, and the Shorebirds held off Lakewood, 2-1. The 22-year-old left-hander allowed one run and three hits.

Delmarva second baseman LJ Hoes was 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI single. Designated hitter Joe Mahoney collected two hits and a run scored for the Shorebirds, while left fielder Kyle Hudson was 1-for-3 with a run scored. Mahoney picked up two stolen bases in the game, while Hudson successfully stole three times.

Shorebirds closer Brandon Cooney pitched 1 1/3 innings to earn his fourth save of the season.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides return to action tonight against the Gwinnett Braves at Harbor Park.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox continue their series with the Erie SeaWolves, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds face the Lakewood BlueClaws at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury.

The Single-A Frederick Keys defeated the Winston-Salem Dash, 6-4, in a day game. Be sure to come back to O's on Deck later for a complete recap.

Earlier today, the Baysox announced two roster moves. Outfielder Danny Figueroa was placed on the 7-day disabled list with an undisclosed injury. He is eligible to return to the Baysox on Monday, May 4. In order to replace Figueroa, the team added outfielder Brian Conley to the roster from extended spring training.

In seven games this season, Figueroa is hitting .316 with one home run and four RBIs. Conley, a Gaithersburg native who played in college at Towson, batted .248 with two home runs and 10 RBIs in 38 games for the rookie-level Bluefield Orioles in 2008.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Gwinnett Braves (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Waters (2-1, 3.77 ERA)
Gwinnett: Charlie Morton (1-1, 6.43 ERA)

Notes

* Waters earned a win in each of his last two starts for the Tides. The 28-year-old left-hander gave up two runs and four hits in five innings against the Charlotte Knights on April 22. Waters also defeated the Knights on April 16 when he pitched six scoreless innings.

* Morton has struggled to be consistent in three starts this season. The 25-year-old right-hander only allowed one run and one hit in six innings during his first game on April 12 against Charlotte. He didn't factor in the decision against Norfolk on April 17 after giving up three runs and eight hits in five innings. Morton lost to the Durham Bulls in his last start on April 22 after surrendering six runs and eight hits in three innings.

* Norfolk has scored first in 12 out of 16 games so far this season. The Tides will improve to 12-5 with a victory tonight, which would surpass last season's total for April. The team was 11-14 during the first month in 2008.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Erie SeaWolves (6:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Troy Patton (2-0, 0.55 ERA)
Erie: Jon Kibler (0-1, 8.49 ERA)

Notes

* In 16 1/3 innings during his first three starts for the Baysox, Patton allowed two runs (one earned) and eight hits. The 23-year-old left-hander is 2-0 with 10 strikeouts this season. Patton pitched 5 1/3 innings against the Reading Phillies on April 23, but he didn't factor in the decision.

* Kibler is scheduled to pitch against the Baysox tonight, which will be his third start against them in the first month of the 2009 season. The Calvert Hall graduate and Maryland native suffered the loss against Bowie on April 15 after giving up six runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings. Kibler allowed two runs and four hits in two innings against Bowie on April 21 before rain pushed the completion of the game until the next day.

Frederick Keys (A)

The Keys picked up a 6-4 victory over Winston-Salem this afternoon. Frederick starting pitcher Tim Bascom earned his second win of the season, and left fielder Kraig Binick was 3-for-5 with a home run and three RBIs. For more details, come back to O's on Deck later tonight when I post the game recaps.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Lakewood BlueClaws (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Richard Zagone (1-1, 1.72 ERA)
Lakewood: Robert Roth (1-0, 3.38 ERA)

Notes

* Zagone pitched 6 1/3 scoreless innings against the Hagerstown Suns in his last start on April 21. The 22-year-old left-hander allowed two hits and collected one strikeout in Delmarva's 2-1 win, but he didn't factor in the decision. Zagone is 1-1 with a 1.72 ERA in three starts this season for the Shorebirds.

* In his last start, Roth gave up three runs and five hits in six innings against the Lake County Captains on April 22. The 20-year-old right-hander picked up his first victory of the season in Lakewood's 6-5 win. Roth allowed 10 runs (six earned) and 16 hits in 16 innings during his first three starts for the BlueClaws.

* Orioles utility player Ryan Freel was scheduled to participate in a rehab assignment with the Shorebirds beginning last night, but he was a late scratch due to undisclosed reasons.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

If you're looking for a tremendous concert option for this year, it's probably a good idea to head to Harbor Park or Ripken Stadium in July.

The ballparks of the Triple-A Norfolk Tides and short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds, respectively, will play host to Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson and John Mellencamp.

The three music superstars will play in Aberdeen on Friday, July 24, and they will travel to Norfolk for a concert on the following night.

Tickets for the show are $67.50 each. For every adult ticket purchased, a child 14 years old or under is invited to attend the concert for free. Most events are general admission, which means fans are able to pick their seats when they show up for the evening. Check with the specific team for details on the seating arrangement.

The Tides and IronBirds will begin selling tickets for the shows on Saturday, May 9. Tickets are available at the team's ticket office, as well as affiliated outlets.

Each concert will begin at 5:30 p.m., and gates will open 30 minutes prior to the show.

For more information about the tour and presale opportunities, visit Dylan's Web site.

Here is a list of the different concerts, as well as the date that tickets will go on sale.

Concert // Location // On-sale date

7/2 // Sauget, Ill. at GCS Ballpark // 5/2
7/4 // South Bend, Ind. at Coveleski Stadium // 5/2
7/8 // Louisville, Ky. at Louisville Slugger Field // 5/9
7/10 // Dayton, Ohio at Fifth Third Field // 5/2
7/11 // Eastlake, Ohio at Classic Park // 5/2
7/13 // Washington, Pa. at Consol Energy Park // 5/2
7/14 // Allentown, Pa. at Coca-Cola Park // 5/2
7/15 // New Britain, Conn. at New Britain Stadium // 5/9
7/19 // Syracuse, N.Y. at Alliance Bank Stadium // 5/9
7/21 // Pawtucket, R.I. at McCoy Stadium // 5/9
7/23 // Lakewood, N.J. at FirstEnergy Park // 5/2
7/24 // Aberdeen at Ripken Stadium // 5/9
7/25 // Norfolk, Va. at Harbor Park // 5/9
7/28 // Durham, N.C. at Durham Bulls Athletic Park // 5/9
7/29 // Sevierville, Tenn. at Smokies Park // 5/16
8/4 // Round Rock, Texas at The Dell Diamond // 5/16
8/5 // Corpus Christi, Texas at Whataburger Field // 5/16
8/7 // Grand Prairie, Texas at Ballpark of Grand Prairie // 5/30
8/11 // Glendale, Ariz. at Camelback Ranch // 5/16
8/12 // Las Vegas, Nev. at Cashman Field // 5/30
8/14 // Fresno, Calif. at Chukchansi Park // 5/30
8/15 // Stockton, Calif. at Banner Island Ballpark // 5/30

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Double-A Bowie Baysox remained unbeaten against the Erie SeaWolves in 2009, but the Single-A Frederick Keys and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds both suffered losses tonight.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 9, Erie SeaWolves 7 (Box score)

Recap: Miguel Abreu, who started in center field for the first time this season, was 3-for-4 with a two-run home run and two runs scored in Bowie's 9-7 victory over the SeaWolves.

Baysox designated hitter Melvin Dorta, third baseman Jonathan Tucker and left fielder Joe Nowicki added two RBIs each. First baseman Brandon Snyder was 2-for-4 with an RBI double in the game.

Sean Gleason started for the Baysox, but he struggled again and didn't factor in the decision. The 23-year-old right-hander gave up five runs (four earned) and six hits in three innings. Bowie relief pitcher Fredy Deza (1-1) earned the victory after allowing two runs and four hits in three innings.

Baysox closer Wilfrido Perez earned his fourth save of the season after striking out all four batters he faced. The 24-year-old left-hander hasn't allowed a run in 8 2/3 innings this season.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Winston-Salem Dash 9, Frederick Keys 2 (Box score)

Recap: Despite only allowing two runs and seven hits in 5 2/3 innings, Keys starting pitcher Zach Britton (0-1) suffered his first loss as the Keys fell to Winston-Salem, 9-2. The 21-year-old left-hander struck out eight hitters and issued four walks.

Keys catcher Caleb Joseph was 3-for-4 with two doubles and a run scored. Designated hitter Chris Vinyard was 2-for-4 in the game for Frederick, and shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. was 1-for-2 with a double and an RBI.

The Keys trailed, 2-0, before Winston-Salem scored seven runs in the final two innings. It wasn't a good season debut for Frederick relief pitcher Jake Stevens, who allowed three runs in 1/3 of an inning. Cliff Flagello gave up two runs in 1 1/3 innings, and Brian Parker was charged with two runs in 2/3 of an inning.

Parker surrendered back-to-back home runs to Dash first baseman Jim Gallagher, who hit a grand slam, and right fielder Salvador Sanchez in the bottom of the eighth inning.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Lakewood BlueClaws 4, Delmarva Shorebirds 1 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Oliver Drake (1-1) gave up four runs (three earned) and eight hits in five innings, and the Shorebirds suffered a 4-1 loss to Lakewood. The 22-year-old right-hander collected three strikeouts and walked one hitter in the game.

Shorebirds left fielder Kyle Hudson was 2-for-4, and designated hitter Elvin Polanco hit a solo home run. Delmarva first baseman Joe Mahoney and center fielder Xavier Avery each had a hit.

Delmarva relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa only allowed one hit in four scoreless innings. The 24-year-old right-hander is 2-0 with a 0.87 ERA in five appearances this season.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Double-A Bowie Baysox continue their road trip against the Erie SeaWolves, while the Single-A Frederick Keys travel to play the Winston-Salem Dash.

The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds return home to face the Lakewood BlueClaws, while the Triple-A Norfolk Tides are idle.

Orioles utility player Ryan Freel will play for the Shorebirds during their series against Lakewood, the team announced today.

The Keys also passed along updated injury information about a few players.

Second baseman Ryan Adams remains on the disabled list. He is still listed as day-to-day, which means he will likely return as soon as he is fully comfortable.

Frederick infielder Jason White, who was placed on the disabled list yesterday, will miss four to six weeks with a finger injury. Right-hander Jake Renshaw will rest for a week before testing his elbow. He also was put on the disabled list yesterday, retroactive to April 24.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Erie SeaWolves (6:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Sean Gleason (0-1, 11.25 ERA)
Erie: Jonah Nickerson (0-2, 8.16 ERA)

Notes

* After Jake Arrieta started in his place yesterday for the Baysox, Gleason is likely to pitch in tonight's series opener against Erie. Gleason allowed six runs (five earned) and seven hits in four innings during his first start for the Baysox on April 19 against the Akron Aeros. The 23-year-old right-hander was 0-1 with a 6.35 ERA in two appearances (one start) for the Keys before being promoted to Double-A. Gleason has struggled so far in 2009, but remember that he was 12-2 with a 2.63 ERA in 30 games for the Shorebirds last season.

* Nickerson suffered the loss against Bowie on April 14 after giving up five runs and 11 hits in 4 2/3 innings. The 24-year-old right-hander is 0-2 with an 8.16 ERA in three starts for the SeaWolves so far this season. Opponents are batting .403 against Nickerson, and he allowed 13 runs and 27 hits in 14 1/3 innings in his first three starts. Nickerson was 12-4 with a 3.99 ERA in 27 games (26 starts) for the Single-A Lakeland Flying Tigers in the Florida State League.

* Bowie is 4-0 against the SeaWolves so far this season. The Baysox swept a three-game series in Erie earlier this month. Last week, Bowie beat the SeaWolves in one game at Prince George's Stadium, and the other two matchups were postponed because of rain. The two teams will face each other 15 more times in 2009.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Winston-Salem Dash (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Zach Britton (0-0, 1.93 ERA)
Winston-Salem: Charlie Shirek (2-0, 4.60 ERA)

Notes

* Britton only allowed five runs (three earned) and 12 hits in 14 innings during his first three starts for the Keys in 2009. The 21-year-old left-hander gave up one earned run and four hits in five innings against the Lynchburg Hillcats in his last start on April 22. Britton struck out four hitters and issued two walks in Frederick's 6-5 loss.

* In his first three starts this season, Shirek gave up nine runs (eight earned) and 15 hits in 15 2/3 innings. The 23-year-old right-hander picked up his second win against the Potomac Nationals on April 22 after allowing three earned runs and five hits in 5 2/3 innings.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Lakewood BlueClaws (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Oliver Drake (1-0, 1.38 ERA)
Lakewood: Jason Knapp (0-2, 1.96 ERA)

Notes

* After two starts for the Shorebirds, Drake looks like a potential sleeper in the Orioles' minor league system this season. The 22-year-old right-hander is 1-0 with a 1.38 ERA. Drake allowed three runs (two earned) and six hits in 13 innings. He struck out 11 hitters and only issued two walks in the two games.

* Knapp is scheduled to make his second start against Delmarva this season. Despite striking out 10 hitters, he suffered the loss on April 10 after allowing two runs and three hits in 5 2/3 innings. The 18-year-old right-hander is still searching for his first victory with the BlueClaws, but he leads the South Atlantic League with 30 strikeouts in 18 1/3 innings this season. Knapp struck out 14 hitters in seven innings against the Lake County Captains in his last start.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

Four years ago, the Orioles selected Brandon Snyder, a high school catcher from Virginia, with the 13th overall pick in the 2005 MLB draft.

Now a first baseman, Snyder leads the Double-A Bowie Baysox in batting average (.355), RBIs (11), hits (22) and total bases (34) through the first 16 games in 2009. The 22-year-old infielder is tied for first on the team with two home runs, and he is second with six doubles.

During his time in spring training with the Orioles before this season, Snyder learned he possesses the tools to compete in the major leagues.

“One thing I’ll always carry [with me] is the confidence that I can play there,” Snyder said. “”It’s just about refining myself in order to do it on a consistent basis.”

Snyder listed the invitation to spring training as the greatest accomplishment to this point in his professional career.

“Getting a chance to go to big-league camp meant a lot to me,” Snyder said. “With this organization being on the other coast [of Florida] and ... not being able to have as many [younger] guys in the clubhouse, it’s tough to get a spot over there.”

“It was just an awesome experience. I learned so much from being around those guys. It makes you understand what you play for,” he added.

Snyder played extremely well in his first professional season, hitting .291 with eight home runs and 41 RBIs in 52 games while splitting time between the rookie-level Bluefield Orioles and short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds in 2005.

Two separate shoulder injuries caused Snyder’s career to spiral into a level of uncertainty, however, during the 2006 season. Snyder dislocated his right shoulder and suffered a torn rotator cuff in his left shoulder, which limited him to 72 games that year.

The 6-foot-2, 210-pound catcher batted .213 with four home runs and 31 RBIs with the IronBirds and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds in 2006. Snyder committed 12 errors and allowed 20 passed balls in 51 games behind the plate, which prompted some Orioles fans to label him as a bust.

After recovering from the rotator cuff surgery, Snyder’s career started to turn in another direction when the Orioles shifted him to first base.

“Since [2005], it’s seemed like such a long road,” Snyder said. “I’ve learned a lot about myself. I’ve grown up in the last two years more than I ever have.”

With the Shorebirds in 2007 – Snyder’s first season as a first baseman – he hit .283 with 11 home runs and 58 RBIs in 118 games.

Last year, as a member of the Single-A Frederick Keys, Snyder finished second in the Carolina League with a .315 batting average. He hit 13 home runs and collected 80 RBIs in 116 games during the 2008 season.

It’s important to understand your strengths and weaknesses and focus on playing the game, according to Snyder.

“[Sometimes] in the last couple years, I always tried to do too much and pick everyone else up, when really it’s just about [being yourself] and being able to take that onto the field,” he said.

Although Snyder misses being in charge of the game, as well as all of the hard work as a catcher, he believes the move is good for a number of other reasons.

“I don’t miss the bullpens, I don’t miss the 100-degree weather games [and] I don’t miss spring training as a catcher,” Snyder said.

As long as he is able to make a positive impact, Snyder concluded that his position on the field is not important.

“I just want to play wherever it helps the team, and I just want to be in the lineup.”

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 5:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides and Double-A Bowie Baysox each picked up shutout victories today, while the Single-A Frederick Keys pounded the Potomac Nationals.

Also, prior to today's game, Frederick announced a few roster moves.

The Keys placed infielder Jason White on the disabled list with an injured finger. The team also put right-hander Jake Renshaw on the disabled list, retroactive to April 24, with an elbow injury.

In order to replace the two players on Frederick's roster, left-hander Jake Stevens and infielder Robert Stevens were promoted from extended spring training.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 7, Durham Bulls 0 (Box score)

Recap: It's going to be an exciting offense to watch this season in Norfolk.

For the second time this month, the Tides didn't allow Durham starting pitcher David Price (1-2) to complete four innings. The 23-year-old left-hander gave up three runs and four hits in 3 1/3 innings today. He struck out five batters and issued four walks.

Left fielder Nolan Reimold was 2-for-4 with two solo home runs in Norfolk's 7-0 victory, including one against Price in the second inning. Norfolk third baseman Scott Moore was 1-for-3 with a home run and two RBIs.

Center fielder Justin Christian collected two hits and an RBI for the Tides, while designated hitter Matt Wieters was 1-for-3 with an RBI double.

Five Norfolk pitchers combined to throw a three-hit shutout.

Jason Berken started the game for the Tides, and he didn't allow any hits in three innings before getting hurt. According to the team, it's a minor groin injury.

Norfolk relief pitcher Andy Mitchell (2-0) gave up three hits in 2 2/3 scoreless innings. Kam Mickolio pitched 1 1/3 innings, while Alberto Castillo and Jim Miller each tossed one scoreless frame.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 8, Reading Phillies 0 (Box score)

Recap: Due to last week's rainouts, the Baysox juggled the rotation and started Jake Arrieta (2-0) in today's game instead of Sean Gleason. Arrieta pitched six scoreless innings in Bowie's 8-0 victory over Reading. The 23-year-old right-hander gave up two hits and collected six strikeouts.

As a team, the Baysox collected 16 hits in the win.

Right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion and second baseman Miguel Abreu were each 3-for-5 for Bowie. Abreu also had an RBI and a run scored.

Baysox first baseman Brandon Snyder collected two doubles and an RBI, while third baseman Melvin Dorta had two hits, an RBI and two runs scored. Outfielder Jonathan Tucker scored three runs for Bowie.

Jim Hoey tossed two innings for the Baysox, and Wilfrido Perez added one scoreless frame.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 13, Potomac Nationals 7 (Box score)

Recap: If you like offense, it was a great day to watch the Keys against Potomac at Harry Grove Stadium.

If you hate sloppy defense, it was a terrible day to watch the same game.

The Keys overcame six errors, including four by shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. to outlast Potomac, 13-7. The Nationals committed four defensive miscues in the game, but the two teams combined for seven home runs.

Designated hitter Chris Vinyard led the Keys' offense with two home runs and three RBIs. Frederick left fielder David Cash, right fielder Billy Rowell and first baseman Brandon Waring each had three hits.

Vinyard, Waring and Florimon each hit a home run in the sixth inning against Potomac relief pitcher Dan Leatherman, who is a Frederick County native.

Keys starting pitcher Pedro Beato (1-2) earned his first victory of the season after giving up four runs (three earned) and five hits in five innings. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out eight batters, but he also surrendered three home runs.

Florimon's four errors give him eight for the season, while Keys third baseman Tyler Henson committed his ninth defensive miscue in the game. Rowell also made an error in the game, but his batting average climbed to .274 with the three-hit performance.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Two of the best prospects in baseball will square off again this afternoon when the Triple-A Norfolk Tides play the Durham Bulls. Tampa Bay Rays minor league left-hander David Price is scheduled to pitch for Durham against Matt Wieters and the Tides.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox look to avoid a four-game sweep against the Reading Phillies, while the Single-A Frederick Keys face the Potomac Nationals.

The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds are idle.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Durham Bulls (1:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Jason Berken (1-0, 0.00 ERA)
Durham: David Price (1-1, 2.63 ERA)

Notes

* Berken pitched well in his Triple-A debut on April 21 against the Charlotte Knights, earning the victory after only giving up four hits in seven scoreless innings during the Tides' 5-0 win. The 25-year-old right-hander was 1-1 with a 5.63 ERA in two starts for the Baysox before being promoted to Norfolk to replace Brad Bergesen.

* In his first start of the season on April 11, Price ran into some trouble against the Tides. The 23-year-old left-hander allowed two runs and four hits in 3 2/3 innings. Price has only given up two earned runs and six hits in 10 innings, however, during his past two starts. He struck out 11 hitters and issued two walks in those two games.

* Norfolk's Oscar Salazar is currently on a 12-game hitting streak. The 30-year-old utility player is batting .410 with two home runs and 14 RBIs this season. He is fourth in the International League in batting average -- behind teammate Nolan Reimold (.411) -- and first in hits (25). Salazar ranks among the top 10 in several other offensive categories.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Reading Phillies (1:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Sean Gleason (0-1, 11.25 ERA)
Reading: Tyson Brummett (0-1, 3.60 ERA)

Notes

* Gleason allowed six runs (five earned) and seven hits in four innings during his first start for the Baysox on April 19 against the Akron Aeros. The 23-year-old right-hander was 0-1 with a 6.35 ERA in two appearances (one start) for the Keys before being promoted to Double-A. Gleason has struggled so far in 2009, but remember that he was 12-2 with a 2.63 ERA in 30 games for the Shorebirds last season.

* Brummett was dominating in his last start, giving up one run and five hits in 7 2/3 innings against the Altoona Curve on April 21. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and didn't issue any walks in Reading's 3-1 victory.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Potomac Nationals (2 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Pedro Beato (0-2, 4.20 ERA)
Potomac: Erik Arnesen (2-0, 1.69 ERA)

Notes

* Beato is still searching for his first victory of the season with the Keys. The 22-year-old right-hander suffered the loss against the Lynchburg Hillcats on April 21 after allowing three earned runs and eight hits in six innings. Overall, Beato is 0-2 with a 4.20 ERA in three starts this season. He has given up 19 hits and walked six batters in 15 innings.

* Arnesen gave up two runs (one earned) and six hits in six innings during the first game of a doubleheader against the Winston-Salem Dash on April 21. The 25-year-old right-hander struck out eight hitters in Potomac's 3-2 win. In his first three starts, Arnesen collected 16 strikeouts and walked two hitters in 16 innings.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

After nine consecutive victories, the Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost tonight.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox also suffered a loss, but the Single-A Frederick Keys and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds both were victorious.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Durham Bulls 4, Norfolk Tides 1 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher David Pauley (1-2) was charged with three runs and six hits in 6 1/3 innings, and the Tides suffered a 4-1 loss to Durham.

Norfolk right fielder Jeff Fiorentino was 2-for-4 with an RBI double, while designated hitter Nolan Reimold was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Catcher Matt Wieters and left fielder Oscar Salazar each added a double for the Tides.

Bob McCrory allowed one run and five hits in 1 2/3 innings for the Tides, and Andy Mitchell retired all three batters he faced.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Reading Phillies 5, Bowie Baysox 3 (Box score)

Recap: For the first time this season, an opposing team was able to score against Bowie relief pitcher Chad Thall (1-1). The 23-year-old left-hander gave up four runs and four hits in two innings, and Reading edged the Baysox, 5-3.

Second baseman Paco Figueroa, who dropped down to the No. 3 spot in the batting order, was 1-for-4 with an RBI for the Baysox. Brandon Snyder, Melvin Dorta and Jonathan Tucker each had a hit and a run scored for Bowie.

Baysox starting pitcher Bobby Livingston pitched well, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 26-year-old left-hander only gave up one run and six hits in six innings.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 6, Potomac Nationals 3 (Box score)

Recap: Brian Matusz gave up two solo home runs to Potomac third baseman Stephen King, but the 22-year-old left-hander also collected eight strikeouts in the Keys' 6-3 win.

Matusz allowed three runs (two earned) and six hits in six innings for Frederick.

Keys third baseman Tyler Henson committed his eighth error of the season, but he was also 1-for-3 with a double and two RBIs.

Right fielder Billy Rowell was 1-for-3 with a walk and a run scored for Frederick, and left fielder Kraig Binick was 1-for-2 with a run scored. He was also hit by a pitch twice in the game.

Frederick relief pitcher Luis Lebron picked up his second save after tossing one scoreless inning.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 4, Lake County Captains 1 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Nathan Nery (2-0) tossed five scoreless innings in the Shorebirds' 4-1 victory over Lake County. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out four batters and gave up four hits.

Delmarva second baseman Jedidiah Stephen was 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBIs. First baseman Elvin Polanco had two hits for the Shorebirds, and catcher Brendan Monaghan was 1-for-3 with an RBI.

Brandon Cooney pitched a scoreless ninth to earn his third save of the season for the Shorebirds.

Delmarva starting catcher Luis Bernardo was replaced by Monaghan in the third inning due to right elbow soreness.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides look to continue their winning streak, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox will try to rebound after two straight losses.

Brian Matusz is set to make another start at Harry Grove Stadium for the Single-A Frederick Keys, so enjoy the weather and go watch him pitch.

The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds play on the road against the Lake County Captains.

Expect the game recaps to be posted really late tonight or early tomorrow morning.

I'll be working as part of baltimoresun.com's coverage of the NFL draft for most of the evening, so thanks for being patient with the minor league baseball content.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Durham Bulls (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Pauley (1-1, 2.31 ERA)
Durham: Mitch Talbot (1-1, 4.20 ERA)

Notes

* Pauley notched his first victory of the season on April 19 against the Gwinnett Braves. The 25-year-old right-hander allowed one run and five hits in six innings during the Tides' 4-2 win. Pauley also pitched well in his first start, but he suffered the loss against the Charlotte Knights on April 14. In that game, Pauley gave up two runs and three hits in 5 2/3 innings.

* Talbot picked up the victory in his first start against the Tides on April 9, but he's struggled since that game. The 25-year-old right-hander allowed seven runs and 16 hits in 10 total innings during his past two starts, which were both against the Gwinnett Braves. Talbot was the losing pitcher on April 20 after giving up four runs and eight hits in five innings.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Reading Phillies (6:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Bobby Livingston (1-1, 4.63 ERA)
Reading: Antonio Bastardo (1-0, 1.23 ERA)

Notes

* Livingston allowed four runs and five hits in 5 2/3 innings against the Akron Aeros on April 18. The 26-year-old left-hander collected three strikeouts and walked two hitters in Bowie's 7-3 loss. He picked up the win on April 13 against the Erie SeaWolves after giving up one run and six hits in five innings.

* Bastardo is slated to make his first start for Reading after four relief appearances. The 23-year-old left-hander is 1-0 with a 1.23 ERA and two saves this season for the Phillies. He has eight strikeouts and one walk in 7 1/3 innings in 2009. Bastardo has allowed one run and six hits in 2009, and he earned a save in his past two appearances -- April 18 against the Harrisburg Senators and April 21 against the Altoona Curve.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Potomac Nationals (2 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Brian Matusz (1-1, 3.45 ERA)
Potomac: Carlos Martinez (0-0, 6.00 ERA)

Notes

* Matusz is scheduled to make his second start in front of the home crowd for the Keys. The 22-year-old left-hander suffered the loss against the Salem Red Sox on April 19 after allowing four runs (one earned) and seven hits in six innings. Matusz struck out a career-high eight hitters and walked two in the Keys' 9-3 loss. Overall, he is 1-1 with a 3.45 ERA in three starts this season. Matusz has 18 strikeouts and seven walks in 15 2/3 innings.

* Martinez will make his second start for Potomac in 2009. The 25-year-old right-hander also has three relief appearances this season. In his first start, Martinez allowed one run and three hits in 3 2/3 innings against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on April 19.

* So far this season, the Keys are 0-5 at Harry Grove Stadium. Frederick has also lost seven of its past eight games, including three straight.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Lake County Captains (6:30 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Nathan Nery (1-0, 2.38 ERA)
Lake County: Russell Young (0-0, 6.75 ERA)

Notes

* Nery allowed one run and five hits in 5 1/3 innings against Lake County on April 18. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out three hitters and issued two walks in the Shorebirds' 2-1 victory. Last season, he was 7-3 with a 3.39 ERA in 15 starts for Delmarva. The Orioles selected Nery in the 18th round of the 2006 MLB draft.

* Young made two relief appearances for the Captains before making the start against Delmarva on April 19. Against the Shorebirds, the 23-year-old left-hander allowed two runs (one earned) and four hits in four innings. He struck out four hitters and didn't issue any walks. Young gave up five earned runs and five hits in three innings against the Lakewood BlueClaws on April 14.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds won tonight, but the Double-A Bowie Baysox and Single-A Frederick Keys suffered losses.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 8, Durham Bulls 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Chris Tillman (1-0) tossed six scoreless innings, and the Tides won their ninth straight game, 8-2, over Durham.

The 21-year-old right-hander gave up three hits and collected six strikeouts for Norfolk.

Tides first baseman Oscar Salazar was 3-for-4 with a home run, four RBIs and two runs scored, and left fielder Nolan Reimold added a two-run home run.

Matt Wieters was 0-for-2 with two walks and two runs scored. He served as Norfolk's catcher for the first time since returning from a hamstring injury.

Relief pitcher Ross Wolf added two scoreless innings. For the season, the 26-year-old right-hander hasn't surrendered a run in 12 innings. Opponents have only three hits against Wolf in 2009.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Reading Phillies 2, Bowie Baysox 1 (Box score)

Recap: Once again, Baysox starting pitcher Brandon Erbe (0-3) experienced bad luck.

The 21-year-old right-hander gave up two runs (one earned) and seven hits in five innings, but he suffered the loss as the Baysox fell, 2-1, to Reading. Erbe struck out seven batters and issued three walks in today's game.

The McDonogh graduate has only allowed seven runs (two earned) and eight hits in 14 innings this season, but he has picked up the loss in each of his three starts.

Second baseman Paco Figueroa was 1-for-3 with a double and a run scored, but the Baysox managed only four hits as a team. Bowie right fielder Joe Nowicki was 0-for-3 with two strikeouts in his Double-A debut.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Potomac Nationals 4, Frederick Keys 0 (Box score)

Recap: Orioles starting pitcher Rich Hill (0-1) suffered the loss after giving up one run and one hit in three innings during a rehab stint with Frederick. The 29-year-old left-hander struck out three hitters and didn't walk anyone in the Keys' 4-0 loss.

Potomac starting pitcher Bradley Meyers (2-0) shut down the Keys' offense, giving up only five hits in 7 2/3 scoreless innings. Keys catcher Caleb Joseph was 1-for-3, which extended his hitting streak to five games.

Keys relief pitcher John Mariotti allowed one run and two hits in five innings. The 24-year-old right-hander would have been the starting pitcher if Hill didn't make the rehab start for Frederick.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 5, Lake County Captains 1 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Ryan O'Shea (1-0) only gave up one run and four hits in five innings, and third baseman Tyler Kolodny hit a solo home run to power the Shorebirds to a 5-1 victory over Lake County.

O'Shea struck out seven hitters and issued two walks in Delmarva's win. Relief pitchers Pat Egan and Colin Allen tossed two scoreless innings each for the Shorebirds.

Kolodny finished 2-for-4 in the game, while first baseman Joe Mahoney and center fielder Kyle Hudson also added two hits each for Delmarva. Hudson also picked up his sixth stolen base of the season.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Durham Bulls (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Tillman (0-0, 2.25 ERA)
Durham: James Houser (3-3, 2.86 ERA with the Double-A Montgomery Biscuits in 2008)

Notes

* Tillman is scheduled to make his third start of the season for the Tides tonight. The 21-year-old right-hander gave up three runs (two earned) and five hits in four innings against the Gwinnett Braves on April 18. Overall, Tillman has struck out nine hitters and issued six walks in eight innings during his first two starts in 2009.

* Houser will pitch for the first time this season after spending the past two years with Montgomery in the Tampa Bay Rays' minor league system. The 24-year-old left-hander was 3-3 with a 2.86 ERA in 20 starts for the Biscuits in 2008. Injuries have bothered Houser throughout his professional career, and he tested positive for a banned substance in 2007.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Reading Phillies (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Brandon Erbe (0-2, 1.00 ERA)
Reading: Michael Stutes (2-0, 2.45 ERA)

Notes

* Erbe allowed two unearned runs and one hit in six innings against the Akron Aeros in his last start on April 17, but he suffered the loss. The 21-year-old right-hander struck out eight hitters and didn't issue any walks in Bowie's 3-1 defeat. Despite only giving up one earned run in nine innings this season, Erbe lost both starts for the Baysox. In fact, opponents only have one hit against him so far in 2009.

* Stutes gave up three runs and seven hits in six innings during his last start against the Harrisburg Senators on April 18. The 22-year-old right-hander collected five strikeouts in Reading's 7-5 victory. Last season, Stutes was 7-2 with a 1.42 ERA while splitting time between two levels in the Philadelphia Phillies' minor league system. He struck out 84 hitters and walked 29 in 69 2/3 innings in 2008.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Potomac Nationals (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Rich Hill (1-0, 4.12 ERA with the Chicago Cubs in 2008)
Potomac: Bradley Meyers (1-0, 3.48 ERA)

Notes

* Hill is scheduled to throw 60-65 pitches in his first injury rehab assignment for the Orioles. The 29-year-old left-hander was 1-0 with a 4.12 ERA in five starts for the Cubs last season, but he spent most of the year in the minor leagues. He was 4-7 with a 5.85 ERA in 13 starts while splitting time at three different levels of the Cubs' minor league system in 2008. Hill walked 44 hitters in 47 2/3 innings during his time in the minor leagues last season.

* Meyers earned the victory in his last start against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on April 18 after allowing two runs (one earned) and six hits in 5 2/3 innings. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out four hitters and didn't issue any walks in Potomac's 5-4 win. The Washington Nationals selected Meyers in the fifth round of the 2007 MLB draft out of Loyola Marymount. He was 9-7 with a 4.79 ERA in 22 games (21 starts) for the Single-A Hagerstown Suns in 2008.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Lake County Captains (6:30 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Ryan O'Shea (0-0, 3.27 ERA)
Lake County: T.J. McFarland (0-1, 9.35 ERA)

Notes

* O'Shea was transferred to Delmarva from the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds' roster in order to make tonight's start, which will be his third for the Shorebirds in 2009. In his first two starts, the 22-year-old right-hander has allowed four runs and 11 hits in 11 innings. O'Shea gave up three runs and seven hits in six innings against Lake County on April 17.

* McFarland surrendered nine runs (eight earned) and nine hits in three innings during Lake County's 11-9 loss to the Lakewood BlueClaws on April 13. The 19-year-old left-hander fared much better in his last start, which was against Delmarva on April 18. McFarland allowed one run and three hits in 5 2/3 innings, but the Shorebirds won, 2-1.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

Have you ever wondered what baseball was like in the 1860s?

The Double-A Bowie Baysox will give fans an opportunity to experience the vintage action on May 17 at Prince George's Stadium.

Prior to the 2:05 p.m. matchup between the Baysox and the Erie SeaWolves, the Chesapeake and Potomac Base Ball Club will hold a three-inning game.

The exhibition, which is scheduled to start at 12:30 p.m., will feature authentic replicas of 19th century equipment and uniforms. The teams will follow rules from the era, which means they'll play the field without gloves.

Last year's display was rained out, so hopefully the weather will cooperate this season.

If a blast from the past isn't enough to attract your attention, the Baysox will also hold Sundae Sunday on the same day.

Louie's Kids Club members and their parents are welcome to partake in an all-you-can-eat ice cream sundae bar for one hour. The event starts at 2 p.m. on the suite level at Prince George's Stadium.

Please note that the Vintage Baseball Day is open to all fans, but the ice cream event is only available to members of Louie's Kids Club.

Tickets for Sundae Sunday include access to the ice cream, as well as an upper reserved seat during the game. They are $15 each and must be purchased before May 14.

Louie's Kids Club members can contact Dana DeFilippo at 301-464-4871 to purchase tickets for Sundae Sunday. If you'd like to join Louie's Kids Club -- and you're 12 years old or younger -- go to Bowie's Web site for more information.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides picked up their eighth straight victory, but the other three full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system lost tonight.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox lost in extra innings on the road against the Reading Phillies. The Single-A Frederick Keys surrendered nine unearned runs in a 14-8 loss to the Potomac Nationals, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds gave up four runs in the bottom of the eighth to lose to the Lake County Captains.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 4, Durham Bulls 3 (Box score)

Recap: Matt Wieters served as Norfolk's designated hitter, and he was 1-for-4 with a run scored in the Tides' 4-3 victory over Durham.

Tides second baseman Justin Turner was 2-for-4 with an RBI, and he scored the go-ahead run on Justin Christian's RBI single in the sixth inning. Christian and Norfolk left fielder Nolan Reimold added two hits each.

Norfolk starting pitcher David Hernandez (1-0) earned the victory after allowing three runs and five hits in six innings. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out eight hitters and issued one walk in the victory. Tides relief pitcher Jim Miller recorded the final two outs of the game to pick up his third save of the season.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Reading Phillies 7, Bowie Baysox 6, 11 innings (Box score)

Recap: Reading designated hitter Michael Taylor hit two home runs, including a walk-off shot in the 11th inning, to beat the Baysox, 7-6.

Bowie starting pitcher Troy Patton gave up two runs (one earned) and two hits in 5 1/3 innings. The 23-year-old left-hander walked three hitters and collected one strikeout in the loss. Baysox relief pitcher Josh Perrault allowed three runs and two hits in 1 1/3 innings, which was the first time he was scored on this season.

Left fielder Dave Krynzel hit a solo home run in the fourth, and center fielder Danny Figueroa added a three-run shot in the seventh for the Baysox. Figueroa was 3-for-4 in the game, while Krynzel scored two runs.

Baysox relief pitcher Fredy Deza (0-1) tossed two scoreless innings before allowing the game-winning home run to Taylor.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Potomac Nationals 14, Frederick Keys 8 (Box score)

Recap: Potomac took advantage of Frederick's four errors to score nine unearned runs to beat the Keys, 14-8.

Frederick starting pitcher Tim Bascom (1-2) surrendered 11 runs in 3 1/3 innings, but only two of them were earned. The 24-year-old right-hander gave up nine hits and two home runs in the loss. Relief pitcher Cliff Flagello allowed three runs and two hits in three innings. He struck out five hitters and issued three walks.

Keys second baseman Matthew Tucker was 2-for-5 with two RBIs, but he also committed two errors. First baseman Brandon Waring and third baseman Tyler Henson also made defensive miscues for Frederick. Catcher Caleb Joseph collected two hits in the game.

Frederick manager Richie Hebner was ejected in the ninth inning by the home plate umpire.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Lake County Captains 6, Delmarva Shorebirds 3 (Box score)

Recap: Relief pitcher Andy Schindling (0-2) was charged with four runs in 1 1/3 innings in the Shorebirds' 6-3 loss to Lake County. The 22-year-old right-hander gave up two hits and walked two hitters in the game.

Delmarva first baseman Joe Mahoney was 3-for-4 with a run scored, and designated hitter Elvin Polanco and second baseman LJ Hoes each added an RBI. Shortstop Greg Miclat had two hits for the Shorebirds.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Cole McCurry allowed two runs and five hits in six innings. He struck out seven hitters and issued two walks in the loss.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides continue their homestand with the Durham Bulls coming to town tonight. The Baltimore Sun's Jeff Zrebiec reported today that catcher Matt Wieters is expected to return to Norfolk's starting lineup.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox hit the road to take on the Reading Phillies, while the Single-A Frederick Keys return home to face the Potomac Nationals. The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds play on the road against the Lake County Captains.

Before talking about today's game previews, there are some pitching transactions to report.

Relief pitcher Fredy Deza, who allowed two runs in two innings during one appearance for the Tides, returns to the Baysox. Right-hander Pat Egan, who didn't pitch during his brief stint with the Baysox, heads back to Delmarva. Finally, left-hander Ryan Rodriguez was removed from the temporary inactive list, and he returns to the Baysox.

Also, in case you haven't heard, Orioles left-hander Rich Hill is expected to make a rehab start with the Keys on Friday night at Harry Grove Stadium.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Durham Bulls (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Hernandez (0-0, 2.08 ERA)
Durham: Carlos Hernandez (0-0, 0.93 ERA)

Notes

* David Hernandez gave up one run and five hits in four innings against the Gwinnett Braves in his last start on April 17. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out six hitters and issued two walks in Norfolk's 7-4 win. After two starts, Hernandez has collected 15 strikeouts and walked four batters in 8 2/3 innings for the Tides.

* Durham's Carlos Hernandez allowed one run and five hits in five innings against the Charlotte Knights on April 18. The left-hander, who celebrated his 29th birthday yesterday, is still searching for his first victory this season. However, he has only allowed one run and seven hits in 9 2/3 innings during his first two starts.

* Former Orioles player Chris Richard hit his first two home runs of the 2009 season in Durham's 6-2 victory over Gwinnett yesterday. The 34-year-old first baseman is batting .216 with seven RBIs and seven runs scored in 10 games for the Bulls.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Reading Phillies (6:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Troy Patton (2-0, 0.00 ERA)
Reading: Vance Worley (1-0, 2.53 ERA)

Notes

* Two consecutive rainouts pushed Patton's next start until today. He'll get the nod against Reading in the series opener on the road, which is unfortunate for Baysox fans who hoped to see him pitch. The 23-year-old left-hander won his first two starts in 2009, and he hasn't allowed a run in 11 innings. Patton pitched six scoreless innings against the Akron Aeros in Bowie's home opener on April 16.

* Worley earned the victory after giving up four runs (one earned) and three hits in five innings against the Harrisburg Senators on April 17. The 21-year-old right-hander struck out six hitters and issued three walks in Reading's 6-5 win. He also hit a two-run home run in the game. Overall, Worley has collected 12 strikeouts and walked five batters in 10 2/3 innings this season.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Potomac Nationals (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Tim Bascom (1-1, 3.27 ERA)
Potomac: Jeff Mandel (0-1, 3.86 ERA)

Notes

* So far this season, Bascom has made three appearances (two starts) -- all against the Salem Red Sox. The 24-year-old right-hander suffered the loss in his last start after giving up three earned runs and seven hits in five innings. Bascom collected two strikeouts and walked one hitter in the Keys' 5-4 loss.

* In his last start, Mandel allowed two earned runs and seven hits in 5 2/3 innings against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on April 17. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out five hitters and didn't issue any walks in Potomac's 7-5 loss. Overall, Mandel has given up six runs (five earned) and 12 hits in 11 2/3 innings during his first two starts this season.

* Second baseman Ryan Adams, who suffered a slightly strained groin on April 14, is close to returning to action, according to the Keys. Adams could be back this weekend, but the team may hold him out until early next week. The 22-year-old infielder is batting .364 with three RBIs in six games this season.

* Keys right fielder Billy Rowell is hitting .234 with one home run and five RBIs in 13 games this season. The 20-year-old outfielder collected three doubles in Frederick's 7-2 win during the second game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Lynchburg Hillcats. Rowell was 0-for-2 with two walks and a run scored last night.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Lake County Captains (6:30 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (0-0, 0.00 ERA)
Lake County: Alexander Perez (0-0, 0.69 ERA)

Notes

* McCurry hasn't allowed any runs in his first two starts, but he is still searching for his first victory in 2009. The 23-year-old left-hander gave up four hits in six scoreless innings in his last start against the Captains on April 16. McCurry struck out seven batters and didn't walk anyone in the game.

* Perez tossed seven scoreless innings against the Shorebirds on April 16. The 19-year-old right-hander struck out seven batters and only gave up two hits in Lake County's 3-0 victory over Delmarva. The game was tied, 0-0, after nine innings before the Captains scored three runs in the top of the 10th. After his first two starts, Perez has 13 strikeouts and only two walks allowed in 13 innings for the Captains.

* Brendan Monaghan is making the best of his limited playing time for the Shorebirds this season. In six games, the 24-year-old catcher is hitting .313 with a double, a triple and three RBIs. Last season, Monaghan batted .197 with one home run and 14 RBIs in 47 games for Delmarva.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

For the third consecutive day, inclement weather forced postponements in the Orioles' minor league system.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox completed their suspended game with the Erie SeaWolves, but the originally scheduled game was rained out. Bad weather also forced the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds to postpone their matchup with the Hagerstown Suns.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides remained hot, while the Single-A Frederick Keys suffered another one-run loss.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 4, Charlotte Knights 2 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Oscar Salazar was 2-for-4 with a home run and three RBIs, and Norfolk won its seventh consecutive game, 4-2, against Charlotte.

Tides first baseman Scott Moore was 3-for-4 with a run scored, and left fielder Jeff Fiorentino added two doubles in his first Triple-A game this season. Norfolk catcher Steve Torrealba and second baseman Carlos Rojas also added two hits each.

Norfolk starting pitcher Chris Waters (2-1) allowed two runs in the first inning, but he recovered to toss five innings and earn the win. The 28-year-old left-hander gave up two runs and four hits in the outing. He collected three strikeouts and issued two walks. Tides relief pitcher Jim Miller surrendered two hits in the ninth, but he picked up his second save of the season.

Norfolk designated hitter Nolan Reimold's eight-game hitting streak ended after he went 0-for-2 with two walks in the game.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 4, Erie SeaWolves 3, 7 innings (Box score)

Recap: Two wild pitches by SeaWolves relief pitcher Cody Satterwhite (0-1) in the bottom of the sixth allowed the Baysox to score the winning run in a 4-3 victory.

Bowie first baseman Brandon Snyder walked to start the inning, and he moved to second base on catcher Guillermo Rodriguez's groundout. Snyder advanced to third on a wild pitch and later scored on the second one with two outs.

Second baseman Paco Figueroa was 2-for-2 with a walk and a run scored for the Baysox, while designated hitter Miguel Abreu added two RBIs.

Baysox relief pitcher Chad Thall (1-0) struck out three hitters in two scoreless innings to earn the victory. Starting pitcher Jake Arrieta gave up three runs and three hits in three innings for Bowie before the game was postponed last night.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Lynchburg Hillcats 6, Frederick Keys 5 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Zach Britton only allowed two runs (one earned) and four hits in five innings, but the Keys suffered a 6-5 loss to the Hillcats this afternoon. The 21-year-old left-hander struck out four hitters and issued two walks.

Frederick second baseman Matthew Tucker was 2-for-3 with two RBIs, but he committed two throwing errors in the loss. He was also caught stealing twice. Third baseman Tyler Henson was 2-for-4 with a double for the Keys, and center fielder Matt Angle added a stolen base, an RBI and a run scored.

Keys relief pitcher Brett Bordes (1-1) suffered the loss after giving up two runs and two hits in one inning. Catcher Caleb Joseph and shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. each added an RBI for Frederick.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Tonight's game between the Shorebirds and the Hagerstown Suns was postponed due to wet field conditions at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury.

The second game of last night's doubleheader was also rained out, which means that only one of the three meetings in the series was played. No makeup dates have been announced.

Fans who bought tickets for tonight’s game can exchange them at the stadium box office for seats to any remaining game during the regular season in 2009.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 6:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Three of the four full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system play games during the day. The Double-A Bowie Baysox also will complete last night's suspended game at Prince George's Stadium. The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds play at 7:05 p.m.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Charlotte Knights (12:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Waters (1-1, 3.86 ERA)
Charlotte: Jeffrey Marquez (0-2, 20.25 ERA)

Notes

* Waters earned his first victory of the season on April 16 after pitching six scoreless innings against Charlotte. The 28-year-old left-hander struck out four hitters and issued two walks in six innings during the Tides' 10-0 win. He struggled in his first start against the Durham Bulls on April 11, giving up four runs and six hits in 3 1/3 innings.

* Marquez has struggled mightily in his first two starts, allowing 13 runs (12 earned) and 14 hits in 5 1/3 innings. The 24-year-old right-hander gave up six earned runs and eight hits in 3 2/3 innings against the Tides on April 16. He also surrendered six earned runs and six hits in 1 2/3 innings against the Gwinnett Braves on April 11.

* The Tides have won six straight games heading into today's contest. During the current streak, Norfolk has outscored its opponents, 36-12.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Erie SeaWolves (11:05 a.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Troy Patton (2-0, 1.00 ERA)
Erie: Alfredo Figaro (1-0, 0.00 ERA)

Notes

* Prior to the start of today's regularly scheduled game, the Baysox and SeaWolves will complete last night's suspended game. Bowie will start with Paco Figueroa on first base and Melvin Dorta hitting with an 0-2 count in the bottom of the third inning. Erie holds a 3-2 lead after back-to-back doubles off Baysox starter Jake Arrieta in the top of the second. Bowie relief pitcher Jim Hoey is expected to pitch when play resumes.

* Patton was expected to start the second game of last night's doubleheader before it was postponed. He'll get the nod to begin the originally scheduled game when it is played today at Prince George's Stadium. The 23-year-old left-hander won his first two starts in 2009, and he hasn't allowed a run in 11 innings. Patton pitched six scoreless innings against the Akron Aeros in Bowie's home opener on April 16.

* In two starts so far this season, Figaro has been nearly unhittable. The 24-year-old right-hander tossed seven no-hit innings against the Altoona Curve on April 16. He struck out five hitters and issued three walks in the game. Overall, Figaro has pitched 12 2/3 scoreless innings this season, which is even better than Patton's numbers. It looks like there might be very few runs scored today at Prince George's Stadium.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Lynchburg Hillcats (11:05 a.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Zach Britton (0-0, 2.00 ERA)
Lynchburg: Ronald Uviedo (0-1, 1.80 ERA)

Notes

* Britton hasn't been involved in a decision during his first two starts for the Keys. The 21-year-old left-hander allowed two earned runs and five hits in four innings against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans in his last start on April 26. Britton struck out five batters and walked two in Frederick's 7-4 victory.

* Prior to this season, Uviedo hadn't made a start since 2005 in the Venezuelan Summer League as a member of the Seattle Mariners' minor league system. In two starts so far in 2009, the 22-year-old right-hander is 0-1 with a 1.80 ERA. He has given up four runs (two earned) and 12 hits in 10 innings.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Hagerstown Suns (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (0-0, 0.00 ERA)
Hagerstown: Jack McGeary (0-0, 5.19 ERA)

Notes

* McCurry hasn't allowed any runs in his first two starts, but he is still searching for his first victory in 2009. The 23-year-old left-hander gave up four hits in six scoreless innings in his last start against the Lake County Captains. McCurry struck out seven batters and didn't walk anyone in the Shorebirds' 3-0 loss in 10 innings.

* McGeary is likely to start for Hagerstown after last night's game was postponed. The 20-year-old left-hander struggled with his control against the Lakewood BlueClaws in his last start on April 16. He issued six walks and struck out three hitters in three innings. McGeary also allowed five runs and four hits in the game.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

Have you ever wanted to attend a baseball game, but food allergies prevent you from enjoying the experience?

You'll get a chance to watch some minor league baseball when the Double-A Bowie Baysox hold Food Allergy Awareness Night on May 14 at Prince George's Stadium. The team is going to take several precautions so that fans affected by food allergies, anaphylaxis and celiac disease can see the Baysox, who will face the Erie SeaWolves at 7:05 p.m.

The Baysox will work with the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network, the University of Maryland School of Medicine's Center for Celiac Research, Allergy & Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics and Johns Hopkins Children Center to offer two sections to fans with food allergies.

Tickets are available for $11 in the food-free zone, which will be set up in the lower reserved section at the ballpark. The Baysox will thoroughly clean the area prior to the game, and there will be an exclusive entrance on the third base concourse for fans to enter. Soda and bottled water will be permitted in the section, but no food is allowed.

Seats are also available in the gluten-free section for $13.50 each. The ticket includes a food voucher for a hot dog on a gluten-free bun, chips, a regular drink and a gluten-free cookie.

Also, the Baysox will not permit the sale of peanuts on the third base concourse during the game. At each concession stand, the team will post signs with a list of every ingredient in all items sold. Finally, tables will be set up around the concourse level to raise awareness about food allergies.

In order to purchase seats in the food-free zone or the gluten-free section, fans should call Baysox promotions manager Chris Rogers at 301-464-4855. Tickets must be bought at least 48 hours prior to the game in order to guarantee a spot.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

For the second consecutive day, rain forced several postponements for the four full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system. The good news is that some games were able to be played.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides used another solid pitching performance to beat the Charlotte Knights, while the Single-A Frederick Keys split a doubleheader with the Lynchburg Hillcats.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox and Erie SeaWolves played into the bottom of the third inning during the first game of the doubleheader before rain forced it to be suspended. The game will be continued Wednesday at 11 a.m., and it will be followed by the regularly scheduled meeting between the two teams. No makeup date has been announced for the second game of tonight's doubleheader, which was postponed.

Although the first game of the doubleheader was originally scheduled for seven innings, the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds grabbed a 2-1 victory over the Hagerstown Suns in the eighth -- which is one extra frame if you're keeping track at home. The nightcap between the two teams was postponed due to inclement weather, and a makeup date was not announced.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 5, Charlotte Knights 0 (Box score)

Recap: It was an impressive Triple-A debut for Tides starting pitcher Jason Berken (1-0), who allowed four hits in seven scoreless innings. The 25-year-old right-hander struck out three hitters and didn't allow any walks in Norfolk's 5-0 victory.

Tides right fielder Oscar Salazar was 2-for-4 with two RBIs and a run scored, while left fielder Nolan Reimold collected two hits, an RBI and a run scored. First baseman Jolbert Cabrera added an RBI for the Tides.

Relief pitcher Ross Wolf pitched two scoreless innings to preserve the Tides' third shutout in the first 11 games this season.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

The SeaWolves were leading, 3-2, with no outs in the bottom of the third inning. Paco Figueroa is on first base, and Melvin Dorta is batting for the Baysox with an 0-2 count.

Frederick Keys (A)

Game 1 score: Lynchburg Hillcats 3, Frederick Keys 2, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 1 recap: Starting pitcher Pedro Beato (0-2) tossed six innings, allowing three runs and eight hits, in the Keys' 3-2 loss to the Hillcats in the first game of the doubleheader. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out six hitters and issued one walk.

Shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. was 2-for-3 with a double, a triple and two RBIs for the Keys, while catcher Caleb Joseph and left fielder Kraig Binick each added a hit and a run scored.

Center fielder Matt Angle picked up two outfield assists in the game.

Game 2 score: Frederick Keys 7, Lynchburg Hillcats 2, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 2 recap: After going 0-for-3 in the first game to lower his batting average to .195, right fielder Billy Rowell collected three doubles and an RBI to lift the Keys to a 7-2 victory in the nightcap.

Catcher Wally Crancer was 2-for-4 with two RBIs for Frederick, and third baseman Tyler Henson drove in two runs. Every player in the Keys' lineup had at least one hit, and seven different players scored a run in the game.

The Keys used three different relief pitchers to earn the win. Chris Salberg, who filled in as a spot starter, allowed one run and four hits in four innings. Brian Parker (1-0) earned the victory after giving up one run and two hits in two innings. Luis Lebron tossed a scoreless inning to close out the game.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 2, Hagerstown Suns 1, 8 innings (Box score)

Recap: Shortstop Greg Miclat scored on designated hitter Joe Mahoney's single in the bottom of the eighth inning to lift the Shorebirds to a 2-1 victory.

Miclat reached base on a throwing error by Hagerstown shortstop Nick Arata. He moved to second base on a wild pitch by Suns relief pitcher Austin Garrett. An intentional walk to Shorebirds right fielder Ronnie Welty set the stage for Mahoney's game-winning hit.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Rick Zagone tossed 6 1/3 scoreless innings, allowing two hits and walking one batter. The 22-year-old left-hander collected one strikeout, but he didn't factor in the decision.

Delmarva had an opportunity to win the game in the seventh, but closer Brandon Cooney surrendered a solo home run to Suns catcher Derek Norris to tie the game with one out. After giving up one run and three hits in 1 1/3 innings, Cooney was ejected by home plate umpire Jacob Danielson in the eighth.

Relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa (2-0) recorded the final out in the top of the eighth to earn the victory. Mahoney collected two hits in the game, while Welty was 1-for-2 with two walks.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Earlier today, the Orioles placed utility player Ryan Freel on the 15-day disabled list and recalled outfielder Lou Montanez from the Triple-A Norfolk Tides.

This transaction caused a ripple effect within the organization.

Outfielder Jeff Fiorentino, despite hitting .087 (2-for-23) in seven games for the Double-A Bowie Baysox so far this season, was sent to Norfolk as Montanez's replacement.

To fill Fiorentino's spot in Bowie, outfielder Joe Nowicki was added to the roster. Nowicki hasn't appeared in any games this season, but he batted .276 with 19 home runs and 78 RBIs in 130 games for the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds in 2008.

All four full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system were rained out yesterday, so there are plenty of games scheduled tonight -- seven to be exact.

The Tides will play a single game against the Charlotte Knights, but the other three teams will participate in doubleheaders. The Baysox will host the Erie SeaWolves for two games starting at 6:05 p.m., while the Single-A Frederick Keys will play twice on the road against the Lynchburg Hillcats beginning at the same time. Delmarva will play two games against the Hagerstown Suns at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury. The first game will start at 5:35 p.m.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Charlotte Knights (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Jason Berken (1-1, 5.63 ERA with the Baysox in 2009)
Charlotte: Wes Whisler (1-0, 2.31 ERA)

Notes

* Jason Berken will take Brad Bergesen's spot in the rotation tonight. The 25-year-old right-hander was scratched from his scheduled start for the Baysox Sunday. Berken was 1-1 with a 5.63 ERA in two starts for the Baysox this season. He earned the victory in his last start for Bowie, allowing two runs and two hits in five innings against Erie on April 14.

* Whisler gave up one earned run and seven hits in 5 2/3 innings against the Tides on April 15, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 26-year-old left-hander struck out four hitters and issued two walks. Overall, Whisler has allowed four runs (three earned) and 15 hits in 11 2/3 innings for Charlotte this season.

* In case you missed it, Tides left fielder Nolan Reimold was selected Monday as the International League Player of the Week for last week's performance. He batted .464 (13-for-28) with one home run and nine RBIs in seven games during the week.

* According to the Tides, last night's postponement was the first home opener rained out since the Tidewater Tides had their season opener postponed at Frank D. Lawrence Stadium in 1969, the first year for the organization at the Triple-A level.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Doubleheader vs. Erie SeaWolves (6:05 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Bowie: Jake Arrieta (1-0, 1.00 ERA)
Erie: Jon Kibler (0-1, 8.83 ERA)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Bowie: Troy Patton (2-0, 1.00 ERA)
Erie: Alfredo Figaro (1-0, 0.00 ERA)

Notes

* What a night to catch a doubleheader in Bowie! For the price of one ticket, you'll get to see Arrieta and Patton pitch for the Baysox. The SeaWolves will counter with a former local high school pitcher (Kibler), as well as the Eastern League's Pitcher of the Week for last week (Figaro).

* Arrieta earned his first Double-A victory after giving up one run and seven hits in five innings against the SeaWolves on April 15. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out four hitters and walked three in Bowie's 9-3 win. Arrieta currently ranks seventh in the Eastern League with 12 strikeouts in two starts, but everyone above him has made at least three appearances.

* Kibler, a Baltimore native and Calvert Hall graduate, will face the Baysox for the second time in less than a week. He didn't pitch well in the first meeting against Arrieta and Bowie on April 15 in Erie. The 22-year-old left-hander suffered the loss after allowing six runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings. Overall, Kibler has given up nine runs and 13 hits in 9 2/3 innings this season.

* Patton looks to continue his streak of scoreless innings to begin the 2009 season. The 23-year-old left-hander has not allowed a run in 11 innings over his first two starts, which were both against the Akron Aeros. Over that span, Patton has given up six hits and three walks. He struck out six hitters in six innings during his last start against the Aeros on April 16.

* In two starts so far this season, Figaro has been nearly unhittable. The 24-year-old right-hander tossed seven no-hit innings against the Altoona Curve on April 16. He struck out five hitters and issued three walks in the game. Overall, Figaro has pitched 12 2/3 scoreless innings this season, which is even better than Patton's numbers. It looks like there might be very few runs scored in the nightcap tonight at Prince George's Stadium.

* So far this season, Baysox relief pitchers Wilfrido Perez, Josh Perrault and Chad Thall have combined for 21 1/3 scoreless innings. All three pitchers have made five appearances, and Perrault leads the trio with 10 innings. The three relievers have only allowed six hits, and Perez has three saves.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Doubleheader at Lynchburg Hillcats (6:05 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Frederick: Pedro Beato (0-1, 4.00 ERA)
Lynchburg: Justin Wilson (1-0, 6.00 ERA)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Frederick: Chris Salberg (0-2, 11.57 ERA)
Lynchburg: Dustin Molleken (2-0, 4.50 ERA)

Notes

* In his last start against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on April 15, Beato didn't factor in the decision. The 22-year-old right-hander gave up two runs (one earned) and five hits in four innings. He walked four hitters and threw two home runs in the Keys' 3-2 victory. Overall, Beato has allowed 11 hits and five runs (four earned) in nine innings.

* Wilson has struggled at times, but pitched effectively in his first two starts for the Hillcats. The 21-year-old left-hander earned the victory in his first game on April 10 against the Potomac Nationals after allowing three runs and three hits in five innings. Against the Winston-Salem Dash on April 15, Wilson gave up three runs and four hits in four innings.

* Salberg has allowed at least two runs in each of his three appearances for the Keys this season. The 24-year-old left-hander will be making his first start in the second game of the doubleheader. In 2 2/3 innings against the Salem Red Sox on April 18, Salberg gave up two runs and one hit. He walked two hitters in the outing.

* In three appearances out of the bullpen for Lynchburg, Molleken has earned two victories. The 24-year-old right-hander struggled in his last outing, however. He gave up four runs and six hits in three innings against Winston-Salem on April 16.

* After Sunday's three-hit performance, Keys catcher Caleb Joseph is batting .324 in eight games this season. The 22-year-old catcher was 3-for-4 with a home run and two RBIs in Frederick's 9-3 loss to the Salem Red Sox. Joseph also had three hits against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on April 14.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Doubleheader vs. Hagerstown Suns (5:35 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Richard Zagone (1-1, 2.89 ERA)
Hagerstown: Brad Peacock (0-0, 1.64 ERA)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Colin Allen (0-1, 1.50 ERA)
Hagerstown: Jack McGeary (0-0, 5.19 ERA)

Notes

* Zagone ran into some trouble against Hagerstown, allowing five runs (three earned) and five hits in 4 1/3 innings on April 14. The 22-year-old left-hander pitched very well in his first start of the season, however, giving up only only one hit in five innings against the Lakewood BlueClaws on April 9. Zagone has 10 strikeouts in 9 1/3 innings this season.

* Peacock is off to a quick start for the Suns in 2009. The 21-year-old right-hander doesn't have any wins, but he has compiled a 1.64 ERA in his first two starts. Peacock allowed four runs (two earned) and eight hits in four innings against Delmarva on April 14, but he struck out six batters in the game. In the Suns' 1-0 loss to the Lake County Captains on April 9, Peacock gave up five hits and collected five strikeouts in seven scoreless innings.

* In the second game of the doubleheader, Allen is scheduled to make his first start for the Shorebirds. The 22-year-old right-hander has allowed three runs (one earned) and four hits in six innings out of the bullpen for Delmarva. Last season, Allen was 3-2 with a 2.31 ERA in 14 games (11 starts) for the rookie-level Bluefield Orioles.

* McGeary is set to start for Hagerstown in the nightcap. The 20-year-old left-hander struggled with his control against the Lakewood BlueClaws in his last start on April 16. He issued six walks and struck out three hitters in three innings. McGeary also allowed five runs and four hits in the game.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

Right-handed pitcher Brad Bergesen is expected to make his major league debut for the Orioles in Tuesday night's game against the Chicago White Sox at Camden Yards.

Bergesen was honored as the Jim Palmer Minor League Pitcher of the Year in 2008 after winning 16 games while splitting time between the Single-A Frederick Keys and Double-A Bowie Baysox. The 23-year-old starting pitcher established a single-season franchise record with 15 wins for Bowie, and he posted a 3.22 ERA in 24 games (23 starts) at Double-A.

While all signs point to Bergesen receiving an extended look in place of Alfredo Simon in the rotation for the Orioles, the question needs to be asked -- what if he struggles to adapt to the major leagues?

There are two ways to look at this question.

First, Bergesen's status doesn't really affect the progress of the other pitchers in the Orioles' minor league system. So, there is still hope for the rest of the prospects if he performs poorly in the major leagues.

Another opinion -- and the way I look at it -- is the Orioles will likely focus on a cautious approach with Troy Patton, Chris Tillman, Jake Arrieta, Brian Matusz and the other pitchers in the organization if Bergesen struggles during his audition in the major leagues.

Bergesen's debut with the Orioles affects more than his personal future, in my opinion. I believe the progress of the rest of the pitching prospects in the Orioles' minor league system will be adjusted depending on how Bergesen plays.

For the sake of the Orioles' future, fans should hope Bergesen meets expectations. If not, the light at the end of the tunnel could forever be dimmed.

What do you think? Do you believe the Orioles' plans with the rest of the pitching prospects will be affected by Bergesen's success in the major leagues?

Let me know what your thoughts are about how the Orioles are handling the prospects.

In fact, let's extend this conversation another step.

What if the majority of the Orioles' pitching prospects fail to deliver in the major leagues?

It wasn't long ago that the organization was filled with pitchers like Erik Bedard, John Maine, Daniel Cabrera, Adam Loewen, Hayden Penn and others.

I know the current crop of pitchers is more highly regarded among analysts than those pitchers, but hype only takes you so far. These pitchers will eventually need to produce on a regular basis in the major leagues in order for the Orioles' rebuilding process to be fulfilled.

What if they don't live up to the hype? What is going to happen to the rebuilding plan if the young prospects fail to deliver? Will the Orioles ever have a winning season again?

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (29)
        

All four affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system were rained out, so there won't be any game recaps.

In addition to the four rainouts, a few minor league transactions need to be reported. Jason Berken was officially transferred from the Double-A Bowie Baysox to the Triple-A Norfolk Tides, while relief pitcher Pat Egan joins the Baysox from the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds. Also, Baysox left-hander Ryan Rodriguez was placed on the temporary inactive list.

The home opener for the Tides was postponed and no makeup date was announced. Norfolk will play one game Tuesday against the Charlotte Knights at 7:15 p.m. Berken will make his Triple-A debut for the Tides, while Wes Whisler gets the start for Charlotte.

As I mentioned earlier, the Baysox will play a doubleheader Tuesday at Prince George's Stadium against the Erie SeaWolves. The first game will start at 6:05 p.m., and each matchup is scheduled for seven innings. Jake Arrieta is expected to start the first game for the Baysox, while Baltimore native Jon Kibler will pitch for the SeaWolves. Bowie's Troy Patton and Erie's Alfredo Figaro are tentatively scheduled to pitch in the nightcap.

The Single-A Frederick Keys are also scheduled to play a doubleheader Tuesday after their series opener on the road against the Lynchburg Hillcats was postponed. Both games are scheduled for seven innings, and the starting time of the first game is 6:05 p.m. in Lynchburg. Pedro Beato is expected to start the opener for Frederick, but it's unclear who will start the second game.

Due to the inclement weather, a third Orioles affiliate will play a doubleheader Tuesday when the Shorebirds host the Hagerstown Suns. The first game is scheduled to start at 5:35 p.m., and both games are slated for seven innings. No word on the pitching matchups, but I'm assuming Rick Zagone will start one of the two games for the Shorebirds.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

Tonight's game between the Double-A Bowie Baysox and Erie SeaWolves at Prince George's Stadium has been rained out, and there may be other postponements coming.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides are scheduled to play their home opener at 7:15 p.m. against the Charlotte Knights at Harbor Park. The Single-A Frederick Keys hit the road again, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds continue their homestand against the Hagerstown Suns.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Charlotte Knights (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Jason Berken (1-1, 5.63 ERA with the Baysox in 2009)
Charlotte: Wes Whisler (1-0, 2.31 ERA)

Notes

* UPDATE (4:45 p.m.): The Tides confirmed that Jason Berken will take Brad Bergesen's spot in the rotation tonight, but a roster move to make room for him is pending. The 25-year-old right-hander was scratched from his scheduled start for the Baysox yesterday. Berken was 1-1 with a 5.63 ERA in two starts for the Baysox this season. He earned the victory in his last start for Bowie, allowing two runs and two hits in five innings against Erie on April 14.

* Whisler gave up one earned run and seven hits in 5 2/3 innings against the Tides on April 15, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 26-year-old left-hander struck out four hitters and issued two walks. Overall, Whisler has allowed four runs (three earned) and 15 hits in 11 2/3 innings for Charlotte this season.

* In case you missed it, Tides left fielder Nolan Reimold was selected today as the International League Player of the Week for last week's performance. He batted .464 (13-for-28) with one home run and nine RBIs in seven games during the week.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Tonight's game between the Baysox and Erie has been postponed due to rain.

The two teams will play a doubleheader tomorrow beginning at 6:05 p.m. Gates at Prince George's Stadium will open at 5:30 p.m., and both games are scheduled for seven innings. The second game will begin 30 minutes after the conclusion of the opener.

Baysox starting pitcher Jake Arrieta is scheduled to begin the first game, while Baltimore native Jon Kibler is slated to pitch for Erie. Starters for the second game have not been announced.

If you had a ticket for tonight's game, it can be exchanged for a ticket of the same value for any Baysox home game this season. The Pi Day event, originally scheduled for tonight's game, now will be held on May 6. Members of Louie's Legends who planned on attending tonight's game can stop by the fan assistance table on May 4 for more details on how the rainout will affect the program.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Lynchburg Hillcats (6:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Pedro Beato (0-1, 4.00 ERA)
Lynchburg: Justin Wilson (1-0, 6.00 ERA)

Notes

* In his last start against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on April 15, Beato didn't factor in the decision. The 22-year-old right-hander gave up two runs (one earned) and five hits in four innings. He walked four hitters and threw two home runs in the Keys' 3-2 victory. Overall, Beato has allowed 11 hits and five runs (four earned) in nine innings.

* Wilson has struggled at times, but pitched effectively in his first two starts for the Hillcats. The 21-year-old left-hander earned the victory in his first game on April 10 against the Potomac Nationals after allowing three runs and three hits in five innings. Against the Winston-Salem Dash on April 15, Wilson gave up three runs and four hits in four innings.

* After yesterday's three-hit performance, Keys catcher Caleb Joseph is batting .324 in eight games this season. The 22-year-old catcher was 3-for-4 with a home run and two RBIs in Frederick's 9-3 loss to the Salem Red Sox. Joseph also had three hits against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on April 14.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Hagerstown Suns (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Richard Zagone (1-1, 2.89 ERA)
Hagerstown: Brad Peacock (0-0, 1.64 ERA)

Notes

* On paper, the most exciting pitching matchup tonight will take place at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury. Zagone and Peacock faced each other on April 14 in Hagerstown, with the Suns earning an 11-5 victory.

* Zagone ran into some trouble against Hagerstown, allowing five runs (three earned) and five hits in 4 1/3 innings. The 22-year-old left-hander pitched very well in his first start of the season, however, giving up only only one hit in five innings against the Lakewood BlueClaws on April 9. Zagone has 10 strikeouts in 9 1/3 innings this season.

* Peacock is off to a quick start for the Suns in 2009. The 21-year-old right-hander doesn't have any wins, but he has compiled a 1.64 ERA in his first two starts. Peacock allowed four runs (two earned) and eight hits in four innings against Delmarva, but he struck out six batters in the game. In the Suns' 1-0 loss to the Lake County Captains on April 9, Peacock gave up five hits and collected five strikeouts in seven scoreless innings.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 3:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

Triple-A Norfolk Tides left fielder Nolan Reimold picked up the first award for the Orioles' minor league system in 2009. He was selected as the International League Player of the Week.

The 25-year-old outfielder batted .464 (13-for-28) with one home run and nine RBIs in seven games last week. Overall, Reimold is hitting .415 (17-for-41) with three home runs and 14 RBIs in 10 games. He also has a double and eight runs scored.

Reimold is second in the International League in RBIs, and he is tied for third with 27 total bases. Despite his success, it should be noted that Reimold has struck out 13 times in the first 10 games of the season.

The Orioles' second-round selection in the 2005 MLB draft is currently on a seven-game hitting streak, and he has hit safely in nine out of 10 games in 2009. Reimold has at least two hits in six games already this season.

Reimold is in his first season at the Triple-A level after spending the past two years with the Double-A Bowie Baysox.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)
        

How can you ensure the crowd noise will be elevated when a division rival comes to town?

By inviting baseball fans to bring their dogs to watch the game, of course.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox will again hold the Bark in the Park Day against the Akron Aeros on May 3 at Prince George's Stadium. The game starts at 2:05 p.m.

This post would be a great opportunity for me to post pictures of my two dogs -- Reno and Duncan -- on O's on Deck, but I don't have any uploaded on my computer.

Instead, you'll have to settle for looking at one of my uncle's dogs. Her name is Musa, and she is much bigger now than in the picture to the right.

Anyway, the Baysox will provide water dishes in various places around the concourse at the stadium, and there will be designated areas for dogs to "mark their territory" in Bowie. There will also be tables at the stadium with information about numerous dog-related topics, including veterinarians and pet grooming services.

Your dog also has the opportunity to be shown on the video board at the ballpark, so be sure to brush his or her teeth before making the trip!

Handout photo courtesy of John Schreyer

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

In case you missed it earlier, I attended the game between the Single-A Frederick Keys and Salem Red Sox at Harry Grove Stadium today.

It was a rough day for the Keys defensively, as starting pitcher Brian Matusz took the loss despite allowing only one earned run in six innings.

Check out my live updates from the game by clicking here.

In other scores from around the Orioles' minor league system, it looks like the Double-A Bowie Baysox also had issues with their defense in a loss to the Akron Aeros. The Triple-A Norfolk Tides and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds both earned victories today.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 4, Gwinnett Braves 2 (Box score)

Recap: The Norfolk Tides didn't encounter much trouble completing the sweep with their 4-2 victory over the Gwinnett Braves and starting pitcher Tommy Hanson (0-2), who is the No. 4 prospect in the minor leagues, according to Baseball America.

Norfolk left fielder Oscar Salazar was 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored. Designated hitter Nolan Reimold, third baseman Mike Costanzo and catcher Robby Hammock each added an RBI for the Tides, who won their fifth straight game overall.

Tides starting pitcher David Pauley (1-1) tossed six innings, allowing one run and five hits. The 25-year-old right-hander collected one strikeout and walked one hitter. Gwinnett's only run against Pauley scored on a solo home run by catcher Clint Sammons to lead off the third inning. Bob McCrory struck out two of the three hitters he faced in the ninth to pick up his third save of the season for Norfolk.

Hanson allowed four runs (three earned) and six hits in 4 2/3 innings for Gwinnett. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out six hitters and issued one walk in the game.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Akron Aeros 6, Bowie Baysox 3 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion and designated hitter Adam Donachie both hit home runs, but three errors cost the Baysox in a 6-3 loss to Akron.

Sean Gleason, who was promoted to Bowie yesterday, started the game instead of Jason Berken. I haven't received any official word from the Baysox on why Berken didn't start as scheduled, but I'm going to assume he is on his way to Norfolk when Brad Bergesen gets promoted to the Orioles. We'll know for sure in the next 24 to 48 hours.

Gleason (0-1) suffered the loss after allowing six runs (five earned) and seven hits in four innings. The 23-year-old right-hander was 0-1 with a 6.35 ERA in two appearances (one start) for the Keys before being promoted to Bowie.

Baysox relief pitchers Josh Perrault and Wilfrido Perez combined to throw five scoreless innings in the loss. Perrault retired all nine batters he faced, while Perez surrendered a double and a walk.

Concepcion, Gleason and shortstop Robert Valido all committed defensive miscues in the game.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Salem Red Sox 9, Frederick Keys 3 (Box score)

Recap: Although Orioles prospect Brian Matusz was on the mound for the Keys, Salem completed a three-game sweep by defeating Frederick, 9-3.

Matusz got off to a shaky start, giving up three runs (one earned) in the first inning. Keys first baseman Chris Vinyard committed an error on a grounder by Red Sox center fielder Che-Hsuan Lin, who was the first batter of the game. Salem added two hits and a sacrifice fly in the inning to jump out to an early 3-0 lead.

Matusz admitted he needs to relax and stop thinking too much at certain points, which happened in the first inning today.

"There were some times ... when I got into some trouble and tried to rush things, tried to do too much," the 22-year-old left-hander said. "And that's one of the things I've really tried to make a big point on -- not to do too much."

Keys manager Richie Hebner was glad to see Matusz improve as he pitched deeper into the game.

"From the third inning on, I thought he threw better," Hebner said.

Although he encountered some trouble in the first inning, Matusz pitched well for the majority of the afternoon. He gave up four runs (one earned) and seven hits in six innings for the Keys. Matusz also walked two hitters and threw two wild pitches.

The Orioles' first-round selection in last year's MLB draft finished with a career-high eight strikeouts, which was two higher than his last start against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on April 14. Matusz attributed the strikeout total to his slider, which worked well for him.

Keys right fielder Billy Rowell was 1-for-4 with a run scored, and he misplayed two fly balls in the outfield.

Hebner mentioned that he wants to see Rowell get more aggressive at the plate.

"He's been behind in the count, taking too many pitches," Hebner said.

The Keys manager blamed the wind, which picked up as the game progressed, for Rowell's trouble in right field during today's game.

"He hasn't been that bad in the outfield," Hebner said about Rowell's performance to this point in the season.

"Everyone in the organization knew he was going to make some mistakes early in the season, but that's probably his best position, to be honest with you, in the outfield," Hebner added.

Catcher Caleb Joseph led the Keys offensively, going 3-for-4 with his second home run of the season and two RBIs. Second baseman Matthew Tucker and first baseman Chris Vinyard each had two hits for Frederick.

Overall, Matusz was happy with his performance.

"I felt pretty good," he said. "I tried to slow down my form today. My first two outings, I was trying to do too much."

Despite the loss, Matusz was impressed with his assortment of pitches.

"My off-speed pitches have been great," he said. "Today was the first game I have been really able to throw [my curve] effectively for strikes."

Other notable quotes from Matusz:

On his pitch selection: "I have been throwing everything, but my main focus has been fastball location."

On improvements needed: "When I do try to throw too hard, I open up my front side and my mechanics get a little bit out of whack. So I just need to slow things down and just play baseball."

On advice for himself: "Take it pitch by pitch, just relax, go out there and play the same game I've been playing since I was a little kid."

On adjusting to professional baseball: "Right now, I'm just trying to get a feel for minor league life. It's not just going out there on the field every fifth day; it's the days in between, being on the road, traveling ... workout routines."

On Mark Hendrickson's influence: "He talked about how in the minor leagues he liked to pitch in on guys. [They] weren't really looking for the inside fastballs much and being able to get in on guys, jam them and break some bats."

On the fans in Frederick: "It's great to have the support, and fans that are close to Baltimore who want to see a team succeed and know that it comes from the development of the minor leagues."

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 4, Lake County Captains 3 (Box score)

Recap: The Shorebirds earned a split of their four-game series against Lake County with a 4-3 victory.

Delmarva starting pitcher Oliver Drake (1-0) picked up the victory after allowing two runs (one earned) and three hits in seven innings. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out five hitters. Despite allowing two hits in the ninth, Shorebirds reliever Joe Esposito collected three strikeouts to pick up his second save of the season.

Shorebirds second baseman Jedidiah Stephen was 2-for-4 with two RBIs. Designated hitter Joe Mahoney and center fielder Xavier Avery each added an RBI for Delmarva.

It was the second consecutive one-run victory for Delmarva and fourth overall this season.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 7:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Second baseman Matt Tucker hit a single for the Keys in the bottom of the ninth, but they suffered a 9-3 loss to the Salem Red Sox.

Frederick was swept in the series, and the team fell to 5-6 this season. Five of the six losses are against Salem, but the Keys won't face the Red Sox again until May 29.

Check O's on Deck later tonight for more information from Keys starting pitcher Brian Matusz, who was tagged with his first professional loss as a member of the Orioles' minor league system.

Keys manager Richie Hebner spoke highly of the 22-year-old left-hander following the game.

"[Matusz] is mature, and he knows what he's doing," Hebner said. "He's on a mission to get to the big leagues, and I think he will."

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 5:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

In the eighth inning, the Keys allowed five runs, and Salem increased its lead to 9-3.

Frederick relief pitcher Cliff Flagello, who started the seventh, was charged with four runs after failing to record an out in the eighth. Ryan Ouellette gave up one run in the inning, but he also allowed both inherited runners to score.

For the second time in the game, Keys right fielder Bill Rowell broke in the wrong direction for a fly ball hit by Red Sox left fielder Jason Place. Rowell started back, but the ball dropped in front of him for a double.

It's the bottom of the ninth here at Harry Grove Stadium. I'll be posting a note when the game is over, but look for my game recaps later tonight on O's on Deck.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Keys starting pitcher Brian Matusz settled in by the end of his outing, but Frederick's defense looks shaky in today's game.

Matusz struck out three of the four hitters he faced in the fifth inning, but he also allowed a single to Salem left fielder Jason Place.

In the sixth, Matusz picked up the first two outs on two pitches, but the Keys' defenders let him down after that.

Keys right fielder Bill Rowell misplayed a fly ball by Red Sox shortstop Kristopher Negron that sailed over Rowell's head. He took a couple steps in before realizing the ball was hit deep, and Negron was credited with a triple on the play.

On the next play, Keys second baseman Matt Tucker committed a throwing error, which allowed Negron to score, giving Salem a 4-3 lead.

Matusz struck out Salem center fielder Che-Hsuan Lin to end the sixth.

The 22-year-old left-hander finished with a career-high eight strikeouts, which is two higher than his last start against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on April 14.

Matusz pitched six innings, allowing four runs (one earned) and seven hits. He could still take the loss if the Keys can't come from behind because Salem holds a 4-3 lead in the bottom of the sixth.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 3:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Frederick catcher Caleb Joseph hit a solo home run to tie the game in the fourth inning.

Coming into today's game, Joseph was batting .267 (8-for-30). He hit .261 with eight home runs and 34 RBIs in 63 games for the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds last season. Joseph had 19 doubles and 34 runs scored.

Several people in the Orioles' organization are impressed with the 22-year-old catcher's skills. There is clearly a top catching prospect in the team's minor league system -- anyone remember his name? -- but Joseph looks like he might have a future in the major leagues.

At the end of four innings, the score is tied, 3-3, here at Harry Grove Stadium.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 3:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Keys starting pitcher Brian Matusz pitched better to start the second inning, striking out the first two Salem hitters.

Matusz ran into some trouble, however, when Salem right fielder Matt Sheely hit a single and center fielder Che-Hsuan Lin walked. With two runners on base, Red Sox second baseman Aaron Reza grounded out to end the inning.

The Keys scored two runs in the bottom of the second, helped by Salem left fielder Jason Place's fielding error. Frederick's Chris Vinyard, Brandon Waring and David Cash all singled in the inning.

Matusz experienced some control issues in the third inning -- throwing two wild pitches. Both tosses were in the dirt, and Keys catcher Caleb Joseph couldn't block them. Still, he pitched out of trouble without allowing a run. Th 22-year-old left-hander struck out one hitter in the third.

Salem leads, 3-2, in the top of the fourth inning.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 3:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Keys starting pitcher Brian Matusz got off to a rocky start in today's game against the Salem Red Sox.

Salem center fielder Che-Hsuan Lin reached on an error by Keys first baseman Chris Vinyard to start the first inning. Second baseman Aaron Reza followed with a single through the hole between third base and shortstop to put two runners on base.

Designated hitter Ryan Kalish followed with an RBI double to left field for Salem's first run of the game. The Red Sox added two more runs in the inning on an RBI groundout by left fielder Jason Place and a sacrifice fly by catcher Luis Exposito.

Matusz recovered to strike out Red Sox third baseman Zak Farkes to end the inning. He threw 25 pitches in the inning and 15 were strikes. Only one of Salem's three runs was earned.

Salem holds a 3-0 lead, and the Keys were retired in order in the first inning.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

The Single-A Frederick Keys will face the Salem Red Sox today at Harry Grove Stadium.

Game time is set for 2 p.m., and Brian Matusz, the Orioles' first-round draft pick in the 2008 MLB draft, is scheduled to make the start for the Keys.

Frederick lost the first two games of the series to the Red Sox, and they'll look to avoid the sweep today.

Here are the lineups for today's game:

Salem Red Sox

Che-Hsuan Lin CF
Aaron Reza 2B
Ryan Kalish DH
Jason Place LF
Luis Exposito C
Zak Farkes 3B
Jered Stanley 1B
Kristopher Negron SS
Matt Sheely RF

Dave McKae RHP

Frederick Keys

Matt Angle CF
Matt Tucker 2B
Kraig Binick DH
Chris Vinyard 1B
Billy Rowell RF
Brandon Waring 3B
Caleb Joseph C
David Cash LF
Pedro Florimon Jr. SS

Brian Matusz LHP

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

All four full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system will be playing during the day.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides and Single-A Frederick Keys play at 2 p.m., while the Double-A Bowie Baysox and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds start five minutes later at 2:05 p.m.

Speaking of Frederick, I'm sitting in the press box at Harry Grove Stadium. Orioles top prospect Brian Matusz is pitching in today's game for the Keys, and I'll be providing live updates.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Gwinnett Braves (2 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Pauley (0-1, 3.18 ERA)
Gwinnett: Tommy Hanson (0-1, 0.90 ERA)

Notes

* Pauley allowed two runs and three hits in his first start of the season for Norfolk against the Charlotte Knights on April 14. The 25-year-old right-hander, however, didn't get much run support in the Tides' 3-1 loss. He struck out three hitters and issued one walk in the game.

* Hanson is the No. 1 prospect in the Atlanta Braves' minor league system, according to Baseball America. Remarkably, the 22-year-old right-hander is 0-1 this season, but he has a 0.90 ERA in the two starts. Hanson has struck out 17 hitters and issued four walks in 10 innings for Gwinnett.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Akron Aeros (2:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Jason Berken (1-1, 5.63 ERA)
Akron: Chuck Lofgren (0-0, 2.25 ERA)

Notes

* Berken earned his first victory of the season on April 14 against the Erie SeaWolves. The 25-year-old right-hander gave up two runs and two hits in five innings. He collected five strikeouts and issued two walks in the game.

* Lofgren allowed one run and four hits against the Altoona Curve on April 13 in his first start of the season. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out two hitters and issued four walks in the Aeros' 7-6 victory.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Salem Red Sox (2 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Brian Matusz (1-0, 4.66 ERA)
Salem: Dave McKae (8-9, 4.57 ERA with the Double-A Connecticut Defenders in 2008)

Notes

* Matusz makes his third start for the Keys this season, but it's his first one in front of the home fans. The 22-year-old left-hander is 1-0 with a 4.66 ERA. He has 10 strikeouts in 9 2/3 innings for Frederick. In his last start, Matusz gave up three runs and four hits in five innings against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on April 14.

* McKae is scheduled to make his first start for Salem after pitching with the Double-A Connecticut Defenders last season. The 27-year-old right-hander was 8-9 with a 4.57 ERA in 28 games (22 starts) for the Defenders. McKae struck out 74 hitters and issued 35 walks in 124 innings.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Lake County Captains (2:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Oliver Drake (0-0, 1.50 ERA)
Lake County: Russell Young (0-0, 11.25 ERA)

Notes

* Drake makes his second start for the Keys this season. The 22-year-old right-hander allowed one run and three hits in six innings against the Hagerstown Suns on April 13. Drake struck out six hitters and walked two in the game.

* Young is scheduled to make his first start in 2009 after two relief appearances for Lake County. The 23-year-old left-hander allowed five runs and five hits in three innings during his last outing against the Lakewood BlueClaws on April 14.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds were both victorious, but the Double-A Bowie Baysox and Single-A Frederick Keys each lost at home.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 7, Gwinnett Braves 4 (Box score)

Recap: The Tides scored four runs in the sixth inning -- all on second baseman Carlos Rojas' bases-loaded triple to center field -- to break open a tie game and allow Norfolk to capture a 7-4 victory over Gwinnett.

The 25-year-old infielder's hit scored Norfolk players Nolan Reimold, Jolbert Cabrera and Mike Costanzo. An error by Gwinnett shortstop Antonio Perez allowed Rojas to come all the way around to score, giving the Tides a four-run lead.

Reimold was 2-for-4 with an RBI and two runs scored, while right fielder Lou Montanez was 2-for-4 with a double and a walk. Cabrera also had two hits for Norfolk, which won its fourth straight game.

Tides relief pitcher Andy Mitchell (1-0) earned the victory after giving up one run and four hits in 2 2/3 innings. Jim Miller tossed a scoreless inning to earn his first save of the season.

Norfolk starter Chris Tillman allowed three runs (two earned) and five hits in four innings. The 21-year-old right-hander walked three hitters and collected four strikeouts.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Akron Aeros 7, Bowie Baysox 3 (Box score)

Recap: Catcher Carlos Santana hit his fourth home run of the season, and Akron held on for a 7-3 victory over the Baysox at Prince George's Stadium.

Bowie starting pitcher Bobby Livingston (1-1) suffered the loss after allowing four runs and five hits in 5 2/3 innings. Relief pitcher Jim Hoey gave up three runs and two hits in 1 1/3 innings in Bowie's loss.

Designated hitter Paco Figueroa was 2-for-5 with a triple and two runs scored for the Baysox. First baseman Brandon Snyder, third baseman Melvin Dorta and shortstop Robert Valido each had two hits for Bowie.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Salem Red Sox 7, Frederick Keys 4 (Box score)

Recap: Salem scored five runs in the top of the eighth inning to beat the Keys, 7-4, at Harry Grove Stadium.

Frederick relief pitcher Chris Salberg (0-2) picked up the loss after giving up two runs in 2 2/3 innings, while teammate Brett Bordes allowed three runs in 2/3 of an inning.

Left fielder Kraig Binick continues to play well for Frederick. The 24-year-old outfielder was 2-for-5 with a two-run home run and two runs scored in the loss. Keys catcher Wally Crancer finished 2-for-3 with a home run and two RBIs. First baseman Brandon Waring and designated hitter Chris Vinyard each added two hits for Frederick.

Keys starting pitcher John Mariotti gave up two runs and four hits in 4 2/3 innings, but he didn't factor in the decision.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 2, Lake County Captains 1 (Box score)

Recap: Nathan Nery put together his second strong start of the season in the Shorebirds' 2-1 win over Lake County at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury.

The 23-year-old left-hander gave up one run and five hits in 5 1/3 innings, but he didn't factor in the decision.

Delmarva took the lead in the bottom of the eighth, when Greg Miclat scored the go-ahead run on an error by Captains first baseman Chris Nash.

Shorebirds relief pitcher Raul Rivero (2-0) picked up the victory after tossing 2 2/3 innings without allowing a hit. Brandon Cooney pitched a scoreless inning to earn his second save of the season for Delmarva.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Single-A Frederick Keys play a matinee against the Salem Red Sox at Harry Grove Stadium, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds continue their homestands tonight.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides continue their series on the road against the Gwinnett Braves.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Gwinnett Braves (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Tillman (0-0, 0.00 ERA)
Gwinnett: Todd Redmond (0-1, 3.86 ERA)

Notes

* Tillman is scheduled to make his second start for the Tides after throwing four no-hit innings against the Charlotte Knights on April 13. The 21-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and issued three walks in Norfolk's 7-0 victory.

* Redmond allowed two runs and seven hits in his first start of the season against the Durham Bulls on April 13. The 23-year-old right-hander collected four strikeouts and walked one hitter in the Braves' 3-0 loss. Redmond was 13-5 with a 3.52 ERA in 28 games (27 starts) for the Double-A Mississippi Braves last season.

* Tides catcher Robby Hammock was activated from the disabled list today.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Akron Aeros (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Bobby Livingston (1-0, 3.00 ERA)
Akron: Steven Wright (1-0, 3.60 ERA)

Notes

* The Baysox just announced that right-hander Sean Gleason was promoted from Frederick. The 23-year-old right-hander suffered the loss in his only start for Frederick on April 13 against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Gleason allowed four runs and four hits in 4 2/3 innings in that start. He also pitched one scoreless inning in a relief appearance against the Salem Red Sox on April 10.

* Although it was Gleason's turn in the rotation at Frederick, the Baysox said Livingston will still start tonight's game against Akron. Livingston is 1-0 with a 3.00 ERA in two appearances (one start) for Bowie this season. The 26-year-old left-hander allowed one run and six hits in five innings against the Erie SeaWolves on April 13.

* Wright picked up the win after giving up two runs and seven hits in five innings against the Baysox on April 11. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and issued one walk in Akron's 12-2 victory over Bowie.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Salem Red Sox (2 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: John Mariotti (1-0, 1.50 ERA)
Salem: Seth Garrison (0-0, 11.25 ERA)

Notes

* Mariotti makes his first start of the season in Gleason's spot in the rotation for Frederick. Mariotti is 1-0 with a 1.50 ERA in three relief appearances this season. The 24-year-old right-hander, who made six starts for Delmarva in 2008, has given up two runs (one earned) and four hits in six innings.

* Garrison is making his second start for Salem after being used exclusively as a relief pitcher with the short-season Single-A Lowell Spinners during his first professional season in 2008. The 23-year-old right-hander gave up five runs and six hits in four innings during Salem's 8-6 loss to the Potomac Nationals on April 13. He was 2-1 with a 1.45 ERA in 22 relief appearances for Lowell last season.

* Frederick's Kraig Binick is batting .333 (11-for-33) with one home run and six RBIs in nine games this season. The 24-year-old outfielder has three doubles and five runs scored. He hit .255 with two home runs and 23 RBIs in 44 games while splitting time between the rookie-level Gulf Coast League Orioles and the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds in 2008.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Lake County Captains (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Nathan Nery (1-0, 3.00 ERA)
Lake County: T.J. McFarland (0-1, 24.00 ERA)

Notes

* Nery earned the victory after allowing two runs and five hits in five innings during his first start of the season against the Lakewood BlueClaws on April 12. The 23-year-old left-hander also threw one scoreless inning in a relief appearance against Lakewood on April 9. For the season, Nery has struck out four hitters and issued three walks in six innings.

* In his first start of the season against Lakewood on April 13, McFarland gave up nine runs (eight earned) and nine hits in three innings. The 19-year-old left-hander was 3-4 with a 5.07 ERA in 12 games (10 starts) for the rookie-level Gulf Coast League Indians in 2008.

* After winning four of the first five games this season, the Shorebirds have suffered three consecutive losses. Delmarva has a 4-4 record, which is 1 1/2 games behind the Kannapolis Intimidators in the South Atlantic League's Northern Division.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game previews
        

As I'm sure you're aware by now, Triple-A Norfolk Tides catcher Matt Wieters left tonight's game after hitting a single in his first at-bat against the Gwinnett Braves.

The good news for Orioles fans, however, is that it appears to be a minor injury. The 22-year-old catcher is listed as day-to-day, according to a Tides spokesman.

Without Wieters, the Tides spoiled Gwinnett's first home game. The Double-A Bowie Baysox, Single-A Frederick Keys and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds all suffered losses tonight.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 7, Gwinnett Braves 4 (Box score)

Recap: Left fielder Nolan Reimold was 2-for-4 with a grand slam and five RBIs in the Tides' 7-4 victory over Gwinnett.

With the scored tied, 3-3, and two outs in the seventh inning, the 25-year-old outfielder hit the home run against Braves relief pitcher Manny Acosta.

Norfolk right-hander David Hernandez struck out six hitters in four innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 23-year-old starting pitcher allowed one run and five hits. Tides reliever Fredy Deza (1-0), who was recalled from Bowie earlier in the day, earned the win after giving up two runs in two innings.

First baseman Oscar Salazar was 3-for-4 with a double for Norfolk, and designated hitter Scott Moore collected two RBIs.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Akron Aeros 3, Bowie Baysox 1 (Box score)

Recap: Baysox starting pitcher Brandon Erbe (0-2) retired the first 11 batters, but it still wasn't enough for the win.

Aeros catcher Carlos Santana hit a two-run home run in the fourth inning against the 21-year-old right-hander, and Akron beat Bowie, 3-1.

First baseman Brandon Snyder was 1-for-4 with a double, but he committed a costly error. The 22-year-old infielder mishandled a ball hit by Akron first baseman Beau Mills, and Santana homered immediately after the miscue.

Erbe only allowed two unearned runs and one hit in six innings. He struck out eight hitters and hit two batters in the loss.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Salem Red Sox 5, Frederick Keys 4 (Box score)

Recap: Keys second baseman Matthew Tucker and designated hitter Chris Vinyard each hit home runs, but Salem spoiled Frederick's home opener, 5-4, in front of an announced Opening Day-record 6,281 fans at Harry Grove Stadium.

Frederick starting pitcher Tim Bascom (1-1) suffered the loss after giving up four runs (three earned) and seven hits in five innings. The 24-year-old right-hander surrendered two home runs in the loss.

Tucker finished 2-for-5 with two RBIs and two runs scored. Center fielder Matt Angle and third baseman Tyler Henson also added two hits each for the Keys.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Lake County Captains 5, Delmarva Shorebirds 3 (Box score)

Recap: Lake County scored two unearned runs in the top of the ninth inning to edge the Shorebirds, 5-3.

Delmarva shortstop Greg Miclat committed a throwing error that allowed leadoff hitter Chris Nash to reach base for the Captains. Two singles and a wild pitch by Shorebirds relief pitcher Colin Allen (0-1) led to the two runs.

Allen collected three strikeouts, but allowed the two unearned runs and two hits in two innings for the Shorebirds. Starting pitcher Ryan O'Shea gave up three runs and seven hits in six innings for Delmarva. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out two hitters and hit a batter.

Shorebirds designated hitter Brendan Monaghan was 2-for-4 with two RBIs, while right fielder Ronnie Welty scored a run for the sixth time in eight games.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Single-A Frederick Keys will play their home opener against the Salem Red Sox tonight, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds continue their homestands.

Meanwhile, the Triple-A Norfolk Tides start the final series of their road trip against the Gwinnett Braves.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Gwinnett Braves (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Hernandez (0-0, 1.93 ERA)
Gwinnett: Charlie Morton (1-0, 1.50 ERA)

Notes

* Hernandez tossed 4 2/3 innings, giving up one run and two hits, in his first start of the season for the Tides. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out nine batters and issued two walks in Norfolk's 2-1 loss to the Durham Bulls on April 12.

* Morton was bothered by a strained left oblique in spring training, which caused the Atlanta Braves to put him on the 15-day disabled list. The 25-year-old right-hander struck out 12 hitters, allowing one run and one hit in six innings in his first start of the season against the Charlotte Knights on April 12.

* Relief pitcher Fredy Deza was promoted to Norfolk from Bowie. The 26-year-old right-hander fills one of the two spots vacated by Radhames Liz and Matt Albers, who were both called up to the major leagues earlier this week.

* After losing the first three games to Durham, the Tides roared back by taking three out of four contests from the Knights. Norfolk plays three games against Gwinnett before heading back to Harbor Park for a nine-game homestand.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Akron Aeros (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Brandon Erbe (0-1, 3.00 ERA)
Akron: Josh Tomlin (0-1, 1.80 ERA)

Notes

* In his first start on April 11 against Akron, Erbe suffered the loss after giving up three runs (one earned) in three innings. The 21-year-old right-hander didn't allow any hits in the game, but he walked four batters. He struck out one hitter in Bowie's 12-2 loss to the Aeros.

* Tomlin pitched well for the Aeros on April 10, but Baysox pitcher Troy Patton outdueled him in Bowie's 3-0 victory. Tomlin gave up one run and three hits in five innings, while striking out two hitters.

* Although his seven-game hitting streak ended last night, Baysox first baseman Brandon Snyder collected an RBI with a sacrifice fly. The 22-year-old infielder is batting .394 (13-for-33). He is tied for second in the Eastern League with two home runs, tied for second with eight RBIs, and he ranks second in hits (13).

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Salem Red Sox (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Tim Bascom (1-0, 1.50 ERA)
Salem: Jose Capellan (0-0, 3.60 ERA)

Notes

* Bascom allowed no runs and four hits in the Keys' 3-2 victory over Salem during his first start of the season. The 24-year-old right-hander also gave up one run while pitching in relief against the Red Sox on April 9. Right-handed hitters are only batting .118 against Bascom in his first two appearances.

* Against the Keys on April 11, Capellan gave up three runs (two earned) and seven hits in five innings. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out one hitter and issued one walk in Salem's 6-5 victory over Frederick. He was 3-6 with a 4.65 ERA in 15 starts for the Single-A Greenville Drive last season.

* Shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. is off to a quick start for the Keys. The 22-year-old infielder is batting .321 (9-for-28) with one home run, four RBIs and three stolen bases. Florimon is second in the Carolina League with 10 runs scored, and he has a hit and a run scored in all seven games that he's played in 2009.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Lake County Captains (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Ryan O'Shea (0-0, 1.80 ERA)
Lake County: Ryan Miller (0-1, 6.23 ERA)

Notes

* O'Shea pitched five innings on April 11 against the Lakewood BlueClaws in his first start of the season. The 22-year-old right-hander gave up one run and four hits in the Shorebirds' 3-2 loss. Last year, O'Shea was 2-1 with a 3.00 ERA in 16 relief appearances for the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds after the Orioles selected him in the 27th round of the MLB draft.

* Miller suffered the loss against the Hagerstown Suns on April 12 after allowing three runs and only one hit in 4 1/3 innings. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out seven hitters, but he also issued five walks. Miller was 8-7 with a 3.72 ERA in 26 games (24 starts) for Lake County last season.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Game previews
        

On May 4, the Bowie Baysox plan to step back into history with the "Party Like It's 1929 Night" promotion at Prince George's Stadium.

The night features a special ticket offer and music from the 1920s.

Fans who purchase a lower reserved ticket at full price ($14) can buy an additional ticket for 25 cents. The offer is only valid for customers who walk up to the ballpark box office on the day of the game. Orders placed through the Baysox Web site or on the phone are excluded.

Baysox staff members will dress in attire from the period. Fans are also encouraged to dress in costume for the game, so break out your grandfather's old outfit from the attic.

Vintage cars from 1929 will be on display in the parking lot at Prince George's Stadium. The Baysox also plan to recognize the difficult economic times of the era by serving soup to fans.

Gates will open at 6 p.m., and the game will start at 7:05 p.m.

Here's a list of interesting events from 1929, courtesy of the Baysox:

Baseball events:

• The Philadelphia Athletics defeated the Chicago Cubs in the World Series, 4-1.

• Babe Ruth led the major leagues with 46 home runs.

• Hack Wilson led the major leagues with 156 RBIs.

• Philadelphia Athletics pitcher George Earnshaw led the majors with 24 wins, while teammate Lefty Grove finished fourth with 20 wins and a league-leading 170 strikeouts.

• Cincinnati Reds pitcher Red Lucas led the major leagues with 28 complete games, and seven other pitchers threw 20 or more complete games.

World events:

Jan. 2 -- The United States and Canada agree to preserve Niagara Falls.

Jan. 15 -- Martin Luther King Jr. was born.

Jan. 17 -- The comic strip "Popeye" debuts.

Feb. 18 -- First Academy Awards are announced.

March 4 -- Herbert Hoover is inaugurated as the 31st president of the United States, succeeding Calvin Coolidge.

May 17 -- Al Capone and his bodyguard arrested for concealing deadly weapons.

Oct. 28-29 -- Stock market crashes on Wall Street.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

I typed a full entry for tonight's game recaps, but the blog software crashed when I went to save it.

So, here is the second attempt.

Yes, I've learned my lesson to not type within the browser anymore.

Anyway, in case you missed it, I attended the home opener for the Double-A Bowie Baysox at Prince George's Stadium tonight. The Baysox won, 2-0, and you can check my game updates here.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides and Single-A Frederick Keys also won tonight, but the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds lost in extra innings in their home opener at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 10, Charlotte Knights 0 (Box score)

Recap: OK, it's time for everyone to relax.

Tides catcher Matt Wieters hit his first home run of the season in Norfolk's 10-0 rout against Charlotte. The 22-year-old prospect was 2-for-5 with a walk and two runs scored. Overall, Wieters is batting .261 (6-for-23) in six games this season.

First baseman Oscar Salazar and second baseman Justin Turner were both 3-for-4 for Norfolk, while right fielder Lou Montanez collected two hits, two RBIs and three runs scored.

As a team, the Tides pounded 17 hits. Third baseman Scott Moore and shortstop Jolbert Cabrera also had multi-hit games for the Tides.

Norfolk starting pitcher Chris Waters (1-1) picked up the victory after giving up two hits in six scoreless innings. The 28-year-old left-hander struck out four hitters and issued two walks in the Tides' win.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 2, Akron Aeros 0 (Box score)

Recap: Baysox starterTroy Patton (2-0) seems to be fully recovered from last season's labrum surgery.

The 23-year-old left-hander shut down the Aeros for the second consecutive start, striking out six batters and giving up three hits in six scoreless innings before an announced crowd of 2,144 in Bowie.

"Everything felt good," Patton said. "My fastball was a little erratic at times, but I was able to make up for it with [my sinker] and some good changeups."

Baysox manager Brad Komminsk was impressed with Patton's performance, and he sounded excited for the pitcher's future.

"He knows what he's doing out there," Komminsk said. "He'll continue to get better and better every time he goes out."

The Baysox scored their first run in the fourth when first baseman Brandon Snyder drove in designated hitter Paco Figueroa with a sacrifice fly. Figueroa tripled to start the inning on a ball that was misplayed by Aeros center fielder John Drennen.

Relief pitcher Josh Perrault tossed two scoreless innings for the Baysox, who picked up an insurance run when third baseman Melvin Dorta scored on a wild pitch in the bottom of the eighth.

"The second run was big," Komminsk said. "[Akron has] a good team over there, so you want to get as many as you can."

Despite walking two batters in the ninth, left-hander Wilfrido Perez picked up his third save of the season for Bowie.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 7, Myrtle Beach Pelicans 4 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Brandon Waring was 1-for-4 with three RBIs, and right fielder Kraig Binick had two hits and two RBIs in the Keys' 7-4 victory over Myrtle Beach.

Frederick left fielder David Cash was 2-for-4 with a run scored, while third baseman Tyler Henson and designated hitter Chris Vinyard each scored twice.

Starting pitcher Zach Britton gave up two runs and five hits in four innings for the Keys, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 21-year-old left-hander struck out five hitters and issued two walks. Frederick relief pitcher Brett Bordes (1-0) tossed two scoreless innings to pick up the win.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Lake County Captains 3, Delmarva Shorebirds 0, 10 innings (Box score)

Recap: The pitching showed up for Delmarva in the home opener, but the hitters were noticeably absent in a 3-0 loss against Lake County in 10 innings.

The Shorebirds had as many errors (three) as hits in the game, which was the team's second loss in extra innings in 2009.

Starting pitcher Cole McCurry only allowed four hits, while striking out seven hitters, in six scoreless innings for Delmarva. Relief pitcher Brandon Cooney (0-1) suffered the loss after giving up three runs and five hits in one inning.

Shorebirds designated hitter Jacob Julius, second baseman LJ Hoes and left fielder Kyle Hudson each had a hit.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Baysox added an insurance run in the bottom of the eighth.

Bowie third baseman Melvin Dorta bunted for a single and went to second on a throwing error by Akron Aeros catcher Carlos Santana. He moved to third base on Jeff Fiorentino's fly ball to center field and scored on a wild pitch by Aeros relief pitcher Neil Wagner.

Although the Aeros threatened with two baserunners, Baysox left-hander Wilfrido Perez pitched a scoreless ninth to preserve the 2-0 victory in the home opener at Prince George's Stadium.

I'm heading down to the clubhouse to talk to some players, so I'll post the game recaps later tonight.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Baysox starting pitcher Troy Patton tossed six scoreless innings.

Right-hander Josh Perrault entered the game to start the seventh for Bowie, which still holds a 1-0 lead.

Patton allowed three hits and struck out six batters. Overall, that is 11 consecutive scoreless innings for the 23-year-old left-hander to start the season.

It looks like he is fully recovered from last year's labrum surgery, which is great news for the Orioles. I'll have more information about Patton's performance after the game.

In other notes, Baysox shortstop Robert Valido made a beautiful defensive play in the seventh inning to rob Akron Aeros left fielder Nick Weglarz of a base hit.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Despite allowing a leadoff double, Baysox starter Troy Patton retired the side in the top of the fourth.

Aeros center fielder John Drennen misplayed Paco Figueroa's deep fly ball in the bottom of the fourth for Bowie's first hit of the game, which ended up as a triple. I'm not sure if he lost the ball in the lights, but Drennen was about 15 feet away from catching it.

Figueroa scored the first run of the game for the Baysox on Brandon Snyder's sacrifice fly.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 7:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Baysox starter Troy Patton continues to shut down the Akron hitters.

In the second inning, Aeros left fielder Nick Weglarz reached on an error by Bowie second baseman Miguel Abreu. The ball was hit hard to his left, and Abreu couldn't handle it.

Still, Patton retired the next two hitters on fly outs to end the inning. Baysox center fielder Dave Krynzel made a nice running catch on the second one, hit by Aeros designated hitter Damaso Espino.

Baysox catcher Guillermo Rodriguez flied out to deep center field in the bottom of the inning, but the team went down in order.

Akron second baseman Josh Rodriguez singled in the hole at shortstop for the first hit allowed against Patton with two outs in the third.

The Baysox picked up their first baserunner when third baseman Melvin Dorta walked to lead off the bottom of the third. Jeff Fiorentino lined out to the first baseman for a double play, however, and Robert Valido grounded out to end the inning.

It's still scoreless, but Patton just gave up a leadoff double in the top of the fourth.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 7:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

The game started as scheduled at 7:05 p.m. It's refreshing to see a game begin on time, especially when the temperature is 56 degrees.

OK, the weather is actually really nice. For such a nice day, it's somewhat surprising that there isn't a larger crowd here at Prince George's Stadium. I'll have to see what the announced attendance is later.

Anyway, Baysox starting pitcher Troy Patton looked impressive in the top of the first inning. The 23-year-old left-hander retired the side in order, striking out the first two batters.

Almost as quickly, the Baysox went down in order in their half of the first inning.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 7:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Here are tonight's starting lineups:

Akron Aeros

Josh Rodriguez 2B
Carlos Rivero SS
Beau Mills 1B
Carlos Santana C
Nick Weglarz LF
Niuman Romero 3B
Damaso Espino DH
John Drennen CF
Jerad Head RF

Frank Herrmann RHP

Bowie Baysox

Paco Figueroa DH
Jonathan Tucker LF
Brandon Snyder 1B
Guillermo Rodriguez C
Miguel Abreu 2B
Dave Krynzel CF
Melvin Dorta 3B
Jeff Fiorentino RF
Robert Valido SS

Troy Patton LHP

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 6:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

I've arrived at Prince George's Stadium!

That's important news considering I was in a minor accident on Interstate 695 -- not my fault, by the way -- on the way here.

The Akron Aeros are in town for Bowie's home opener, which is slated to begin in about 30 minutes.

American Idol contestant Ju'Not Joyner, a Bowie resident, will be singing the national anthem, and Maryland Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown is scheduled to throw out the first pitch.

Keep checking O's on Deck for updates during tonight's game.

Feel free to post comments or questions below.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 6:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Be sure to check out O's on Deck later in the evening.

I'm planning to post live updates from Prince George's Stadium during the home opener for the Double-A Bowie Baysox, so feel free to send me your thoughts, comments and questions.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Charlotte Knights (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Waters (0-1, 10.80 ERA)
Charlotte: Jeffrey Marquez (0-1, 32.40 ERA)

Notes

* Waters suffered the loss in his first start of the season against the Durham Bulls on April 11. The 28-year-old left-hander gave up four runs and six hits in 3 1/3 innings. He walked three hitters and collected one strikeout in the Tides' 8-4 loss.

* Marquez struggled in the Knights' 19-3 loss to the Gwinnett Braves on April 11. The 24-year-old right-hander allowed six runs and six hits in 1 2/3 innings. The Chicago White Sox acquired Marquez from the New York Yankees in the offseason trade for Nick Swisher. Marquez was 8-8 with a 4.47 ERA in 19 games (18 starts) at three different levels in the Yankees' minor league system during the 2008 season.

* It's still early, but two Tides players currently rank among the offensive leaders in the International League. Outfielders Lou Montanez and Nolan Reimold are in the top 10 in batting average. Montanez is fourth in the league (.462), while Reimold is tied for eighth (.400). Reimold is also tied for fourth in the league with two home runs, and he is tied for sixth in total bases (17).

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Akron Aeros (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Troy Patton (1-0, 0.00 ERA)
Akron: Frank Herrmann (1-0, 1.50 ERA)

Notes

* In his first start of the season, Patton allowed three hits in five scoreless innings against Akron on April 10. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out three hitters and issued three walks in Bowie's 3-0 victory. It will be interesting to see how he fares in his second appearance against the same team in less than a week.

* Herrmann is also pitching against the same team for the second time in a week. The 24-year-old right-hander gave up one run and five hits in the Aeros' 2-1 win over Bowie on April 9. Last season, Herrmann was 11-8 with a 4.14 ERA at three different levels in the Cleveland Indians' minor league system, including 11-6 with a 4.10 ERA in 23 starts for Akron.

* Bowie resident Ju'Not Joyner, who appeared on American Idol, will sing the national anthem after the Baysox are introduced before tonight's game. Maryland Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Myrtle Beach Pelicans (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Zach Britton (0-0, 0.00 ERA)
Myrtle Beach: Carlos Rivas (0-0, 19.29 ERA)

Notes

* Britton tossed five scoreless innings in the Keys' 6-5 loss to the Salem Red Sox on April 11. The 21-year-old left-hander didn't factor in the decision after giving up three hits and four walks. He struck out three hitters in the game. Be sure to check out my feature about Britton from earlier today.

* Rivas allowed five runs and six hits in 2 1/3 innings against the Wilmington Blue Rocks on April 11. The 24-year-old left-hander issued three walks and struck out two hitters in the Pelicans' 11-9 loss. Last season, Rivas was 6-4 with a 4.38 ERA in 34 appearances (seven starts) while splitting time between Myrtle Beach and the Single-A Rome Braves.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Lake County Captains (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (0-0, 0.00 ERA)
Lake County: Alexander Perez (0-0, 1.50 ERA)

Notes

* McCurry was scheduled to start yesterday's game against the Hagerstown Suns, but it was postponed due to rain. The 23-year-old left-hander allowed four hits and two walks in four scoreless innings during his first start on April 10 against the Lakewood BlueClaws. He struck out four hitters in the Shorebirds' 3-1 victory, but didn't factor in the decision.

* While facing the Hagerstown Suns on April 11, Perez gave up one run and three hits in six innings. The 19-year-old right-hander collected six strikeouts and walked two hitters in the Captains' 6-4 loss to Hagerstown.

* Former Orioles catcher Rick Dempsey will participate in the festivities for Delmarva's home opener at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium tonight. The Shorebirds will also debut the team's theme song, It's a Shore Thing by the band Anything Goes. It will be performed live before the start of the game.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

When naming the top pitching prospects in the Orioles' minor league system, it's unlikely that Single-A Frederick Keys left-hander Zach Britton would be one of the first players mentioned.

Still, the 21-year-old starter was one of the most successful pitchers in the organization last season. Britton was 12-7 with a 3.12 ERA in 2008, which tied him for the second-most wins in the organization.

Flying under the radar is fine, according to Britton, who is expected to start for the Keys tonight against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans.

"I'm just going to go out there and do my thing," Britton said. "My goal is to get into Baltimore, not to get talked about a lot."

Britton pitched five innings in his season debut for the Keys on April 11 against the Salem Red Sox. He allowed one unearned run and three hits, while striking out three batters and issuing four walks.

Britton said he throws a sinker, slider, changeup and four-seam fastball.

"Sinker is going to be my bread-and-butter pitch to get ground balls," Britton said. "I'm not going to be a high strikeout guy, so I'm not going to try to strike out people."

During the 2009 season, the Orioles' third-round selection in the 2006 MLB draft hopes to improve on last year's performance by focusing on his pitch selection.

"Adding my changeup into the other pitches, learning what situations to throw it in," he said.

It's not certain that Britton will make an impact in the major leagues but, in his opinion, the friendly rivalry among the pitchers in the Orioles' minor league system will push everyone to perform better.

"I really like competition, and I think a lot of the guys in the organization do," Britton said.

Britton, who was joined by Sean Gleason (12 wins) and Luis Noel (10 wins) on the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds in 2008, mentioned one of the advantages of having several successful pitchers on the same team.

"You can take a bunch of information [about hitters] from each other," he said.

How does it feel to have other pitchers who are more highly regarded within the organization?

"Obviously, you [have] to give those guys a lot of credit," Britton said. "They're really good players."

"You're always peeking over your shoulder at those guys. ... It makes you step up your game," he added.

Britton, who mentioned Tom Glavine and Jon Lester as pitchers whom he resembles, chose to remain optimistic about his future aspirations to play for the Orioles.

"I guess you always say your day will come too," he said.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides and Single-A Frederick Keys parlayed strong pitching performances into victories, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox used a well-rounded game to sweep the Erie SeaWolves.

The game between the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds and Hagerstown Suns was rained out. The Shorebirds' home opener is set for Thursday at 7:05 p.m.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 3, Charlotte Knights 2 (Box score)

Recap: Tides starting pitcher Brad Bergesen (1-1) earned his first win of the season, allowing two runs and two hits in six innings. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out three hitters, issued two walks and hit two batters.

Third baseman Scott Moore led the Tides with three hits, including a two-run home run in the seventh inning. Norfolk center fielder Justin Christian was 2-for-5 with a double, and second baseman Justin Turner added two hits.

Andy Mitchell tossed two scoreless innings in relief for Norfolk, and Bob McCrory pitched a perfect ninth to record his first save of the season.

According to O's on Deck reader Brett, who attended the game in Charlotte, Bergesen pitched well for the majority of the outing. Brett, however, mentioned that several batters hit the ball hard against Bergesen. Still, the Tides starter was able to pitch out of trouble after giving up two runs in the fourth inning.

Thanks to Brett for his first-hand updates on today's matchup between the Tides and Knights.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 9, Erie SeaWolves 3 (Box score)

Recap: The bats are alive for Bowie.

The Baysox smacked 13 hits to cruise to a 9-3 victory over Erie. With the win, Bowie swept the previously unbeaten SeaWolves in the three-game series.

Baysox starting pitcher Jake Arrieta (1-0) earned his first victory of the season, giving up two runs (one earned) and seven hits in five innings. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out four hitters and issued three walks.

Center fielder Dave Krynzel led the Baysox offensively. The 27-year-old outfielder was 3-for-4 with two RBIs and two runs scored. Second baseman Paco Figueroa, catcher Adam Donachie and shortstop Robert Valido each added two hits for Bowie.

Baltimore native Jon Kibler (0-1) took the loss for Erie after allowing six runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings. Baysox reliever Jim Hoey tossed two scoreless innings with three strikeouts.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 3, Myrtle Beach Pelicans 2 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Billy Rowell hit his first home run of the season to lift the Keys to a 3-2 victory over Myrtle Beach.

The 20-year-old outfielder was 1-for-2 with two walks in Frederick's win. Rowell is now hitting .269 (7-for-26) with one home run and four RBIs so far this season.

Frederick third baseman Tyler Henson added an RBI double, and designated hitter Chris Vinyard picked up an RBI on a bases-loaded walk.

Keys starting pitcher Pedro Beato allowed two runs (one earned) and five hits in four innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 22-year-old right-hander surrendered two home runs and issued four walks.

Relief pitcher Jake Renshaw (1-0) picked up the victory after throwing two scoreless innings for Frederick. Luis Lebron collected his first save of the season for the Keys after pitching two scoreless innings.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

The game between the Shorebirds and Hagerstown Suns was postponed due to rain.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides started at 11:15 a.m. today against the Charlotte Knights.

Right-hander Brad Bergesen started for the Tides, and Charlotte sent left-hander Wes Whisler to the mound.

Bergesen gave up two runs and two hits in six innings for Norfolk. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out three hitters and issued two walks.

Check out O's on Deck later tonight for the full recap.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Erie SeaWolves (6:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Jake Arrieta (0-0, 0.00 ERA)
Erie: Jon Kibler (0-0, 6.75 ERA)

Notes

* In his Double-A debut, Arrieta struck out eight hitters in four scoreless innings against the Akron Aeros on April 9. The 23-year-old right-hander allowed one hit and walked two batters in Bowie's 2-1 loss. Despite making only 20 starts last season, Arrieta finished fourth in the Single-A Carolina League with 120 strikeouts. It looks like he's off to a similar start in 2009.

* Kibler is a Baltimore native who played in high school at Calvert Hall. The Detroit Tigers selected the 22-year-old left-hander in the 30th round of the 2007 MLB draft. He had a breakthrough season with the Single-A West Michigan Whitecaps last season, going 14-5 with a 1.75 ERA in 23 starts. Kibler gave up three runs and four hits in four innings against the Altoona Curve on April 9.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Myrtle Beach Pelicans (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Pedro Beato (0-1, 5.40 ERA)
Myrtle Beach: Jeff Locke (0-0, 0.00 ERA)

Notes

* Beato suffered the loss in his first start of the season on April 10 against the Salem Red Sox. He gave up three runs and six hits in five innings. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out two hitters and issued one walk in the game.

* Locke pitched well in his season debut on April 10 against the Wilmington Blue Rocks. The 21-year-old left-hander tossed five scoreless innings, giving up three hits and striking out six batters. Last season, Locke was 5-12 with a 4.06 ERA in 25 games (24 starts) for the Single-A Rome Braves in the South Atlantic League. The Atlanta Braves selected Locke in the second round of the 2006 MLB draft.

* Brandon Waring and Pedro Florimon Jr. have hit successfully in each game they have played so far this season. Waring is currently on a six-game hitting streak, while Florimon has a hit in each of his five games in 2009. Florimon leads the Keys with a .368 batting average, and Waring is hitting .348.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Hagerstown Suns (6:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (0-0, 0.00 ERA)
Hagerstown: Jack McGeary (0-0, 0.00 ERA)

Notes

* McCurry allowed four hits and two walks in four scoreless innings during his first start on April 10 against the Lakewood BlueClaws. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out four hitters in the Shorebirds' 3-1 victory.

* McGeary tossed 5 2/3 scoreless innings, giving up three hits and striking out seven batters, in his first start on April 10 against the Lake County Captains. The 20-year-old left-hander was 2-2 with a 4.07 ERA in 12 starts for the Gulf Coast League Nationals in 2008. He finished the season with one start for the Vermont Lake Monsters in the short-season Single-A New York-Penn League.

* With four hits in last night's game against Hagerstown, Ronnie Welty is now leading the Shorebirds with a .368 batting average. The 21-year-old outfielder leads the South Atlantic League with seven runs scored, and he also has a home run and four RBIs. In the first three games of the series against the Suns, Welty is 7-for-12.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

Offensive outbursts carried the Double-A Bowie Baysox and Single-A Frederick Keys to wins, but the night probably will be most remembered for Keys left-hander Brian Matusz's first victory as a member of the Orioles' minor league system.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost in a low-scoring game, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds allowed 11 runs in a loss to the Hagerstown Suns.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Charlotte Knights 3, Norfolk Tides 1 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher David Pauley (0-1) gave up two runs and three hits in 5 2/3 innings during the Tides' 3-1 loss to Charlotte. Both runs scored when Knights designated hitter Brian Myrow hit a two-run home run with no outs in the fourth inning.

First baseman Oscar Salazar led the Tides with two hits, including an RBI single in the first inning. Norfolk left fielder Nolan Reimold was 2-for-4 with a double, and right fielder Lou Montanez scored the team's only run. Catcher Matt Wieters was 1-for-3 with a walk and a strikeout.

Tides left-hander Alberto Castillo allowed one run and three hits in 1 1/3 innings, and Jim Miller tossed a scoreless inning.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 7, Erie SeaWolves 2 (Box score)

Recap: With 17 hits, the Baysox provided plenty of offense for starting pitcher Jason Berken (1-1) in the team's 7-2 victory over Erie. The 25-year-old right-hander allowed two runs and two hits in five innings for Bowie. He had five strikeouts and walked two hitters.

Seven Baysox hitters had at least two hits in the game. The team was led by shortstop Melvin Dorta, who was 3-for-5 with two RBIs and two runs scored, and third baseman Miguel Abreu, who also had three hits.

Second baseman Paco Figueroa had two doubles and two RBIs for the Baysox, and first baseman Brandon Snyder hit his second home run of the season.

Relief pitchers Fredy Deza and Chad Thall combined to toss four scoreless innings to preserve the win. Deza struck out five batters and allowed one hit in 2 2/3 innings, while Thall collected three strikeouts and issued two walks in 1 1/3 innings.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 10, Myrtle Beach Pelicans 5 (Box score)

Recap: The Keys pounded Myrtle Beach for 10 runs and 16 hits, providing Brian Matusz (1-0) with plenty of support to earn his first victory in the organization.

The 22-year-old left-hander allowed three runs and four hits in five innings. Matusz struck out six hitters and issued three walks. He also gave up a home run to Pelicans right fielder Cody Johnson in the fourth inning.

Caleb Joseph led the Keys' offensive attack. The 22-year-old catcher was 3-for-5 with one RBI and one run scored. Frederick first baseman Brandon Waring hit his first home run of the season, a two-run shot in the second inning.

Jason White, Tyler Henson and Chris Vinyard added two RBIs each for the Keys. Henson committed his fifth error of the season, and Billy Rowell made his first defensive miscue for Frederick.

Frederick second baseman Ryan Adams left the game in the second inning due to a slightly strained groin. The initial word from the Keys is that he could miss 7-10 days with the injury. I'll provide more updates if I hear anything.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Hagerstown Suns 11, Delmarva Shorebirds 5 (Box score)

Recap: The Shorebirds allowed Hagerstown to cruise to an 11-5 victory with seven runs in the fifth inning. Delmarva starting pitcher Rick Zagone (1-1) suffered the loss after giving up five runs (three earned) and five hits in 4 1/3 innings.

Reliever Andy Schindling allowed four runs (three earned) and one hit without recording an out. The 22-year-old right-hander issued three walks in the outing.

It was a rough night defensively for Shorebirds second baseman LJ Hoes, who committed two errors. Third baseman Tyler Kolodny also made an error for Delmarva.

Despite the lopsided score, there were a few bright spots for the Shorebirds.

Right fielder Ronnie Welty was 4-for-5 with a home run and three RBIs. Delmarva shortstop Greg Miclat had three hits and two runs scored, while center fielder Xavier Avery added two hits and an RBI.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Charlotte Knights (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Pauley (14-4, 3.55 ERA with the Triple-A Pawtucket Red Sox in 2008)
Charlotte: John Van Benschoten (0-1, 5.40 ERA)

Notes

* Pauley prepares to make his first start for the Tides after failing to crack the Opening Day rotation for the Orioles. The 25-year-old right-hander was 14-4 with a 3.55 ERA in 25 starts for Pawtucket in the Boston Red Sox organization during the 2008 season. Pauley struck out 103 hitters and issued 41 walks in 147 innings. He also was 0-1 with an 11.68 ERA in six games (two starts) in the major leagues for Boston.

* Today is Van Benschoten's 29th birthday. Will the Tides treat him nicely, or will they make it a birthday to forget? The 6-foot-4, 215-pound right-hander gave up three runs and two hits in five innings during his first start of the 2009 season, a 9-1 loss to the Gwinnett Braves on April 9.

* Orioles relief pitcher Matt Albers officially joined the Tides prior to last night's game. The 26-year-old relief pitcher replaces infielder Donnie Murphy -- who was put on the disabled list with a sprained knee -- on Norfolk's roster.

* With Orioles third baseman Melvin Mora bothered by a sore hamstring, it seems like a good time to analyze players who potentially could be promoted if he goes on the disabled list. Norfolk's Scott Moore is batting .188 (3-for-16) with four strikeouts in four games, while Mike Costanzo is 0-for-9 with an RBI in three games. Oscar Salazar is hitting .250 (4-for-16) for the Tides, while Nolan Reimold has a .412 batting average (7-for-17) with two home runs and five RBIs. Lou Montanez is currently the Tides' hottest hitter. He is batting .588 (10-for-17) with one RBI. It's going to be an interesting decision if Mora misses a significant amount of time.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Erie SeaWolves (6:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Jason Berken (0-1, 9.00 ERA)
Erie: Jonah Nickerson (0-0, 9.00 ERA)

Notes

* Berken suffered the loss in the season opener on April 8 against the Akron Aeros after giving up three runs in three innings. The 25-year-old right-hander walked four hitters and surrendered two hits, while collecting three strikeouts.

* Nickerson didn't factor in the decision during Erie's season opener on April 8 against the Altoona Curve. The 24-year-old right-hander allowed four runs and eight hits in four innings during the SeaWolves' 8-7 win. He struck out two hitters and didn't issue any walks.

* Over their past 19 innings, Baysox starting pitchers have only given up two earned runs. Also, Baysox relief pitcher Wilfrido Perez has only allowed one hit in three scoreless innings, while collecting two saves so far this season.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Myrtle Beach Pelicans (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Brian Matusz (0-0, 3.86 ERA)
Myrtle Beach: Edgar Osuna (0-0, 2.25 ERA)

Notes

* Matusz makes his second start for the Keys tonight in Myrtle Beach. The 22-year-old left-hander allowed two runs and five hits in 4 2/3 innings during his professional debut on April 9 against the Salem Red Sox. He struck out four hitters and issued two walks in Frederick's 8-6 victory.

* Osuna gave up one run and two hits in four innings during Myrtle Beach's 9-2 loss to the Wilmington Blue Rocks on April 9. The 21-year-old left-hander collected three strikeouts and walked one hitter in the game. He was 10-5 with a 3.38 ERA in 30 games (14 starts) for the Single-A Rome Braves in 2008.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Hagerstown Suns (6:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Rick Zagone (1-0, 0.00 ERA)
Hagerstown: Brad Peacock (0-0, 0.00 ERA)

Notes

* In his first start of the season, Zagone only surrendered one hit in five scoreless innings against the Lakewood BlueClaws. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out five hitters and issued three walks in the Shorebirds' 2-1 victory.

* Peacock was even more impressive in the Suns' season opener against the Lake County Captains on April 9. The 21-year-old right-hander pitched seven scoreless innings, allowing five hits and striking out five batters. Last season, Peacock was 4-12 with a 4.97 ERA at two levels of the Washington Nationals' minor league system, including 0-5 with a 9.09 ERA for Hagerstown.

* Despite winning four of their first five games, the Shorebirds lead the South Atlantic League with 49 strikeouts. Delmarva outfielder Xavier Avery leads the team with eight, while infielder Jedidiah Stephen has struck out seven times.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

When the Orioles traded catcher Ramon Hernandez to the Cincinnati Reds in December, it was viewed primarily as a way to clear room for top prospect Matt Wieters in the major leagues.

The Orioles received veteran utility player Ryan Freel and two minor leaguers in the deal, but none of the players were expected to make a substantial impact at the major league level.

Four months later, the expectations for the two minor leaguers – Triple-A Norfolk Tides second baseman Justin Turner and Single-A Frederick Keys first baseman Brandon Waring – have increased dramatically with their debuts in the organization.

Turner, a 24-year-old infielder, batted .295 (13-for-44) with three home runs and 10 RBIs in 23 games during spring training for the Orioles. His gritty performance in the Grapefruit League seemed to impress Orioles fans and provide hope for his eventual arrival at Camden Yards.

While Waring didn’t participate in major league spring training with the Orioles, the 23-year-old infielder quickly found success with the Keys.

In the four-game series against the Salem Red Sox to begin the season, Waring batted .375 (6-for-16) with three doubles, four runs scored and one RBI. Last night against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, he was 1-for-3 with a walk and an RBI.

Waring said he didn’t expect to be traded from the Reds’ minor league system, but the move will likely allow him to develop quicker.

“I really didn’t know too much about it,” he said at the Keys’ media day last week at Harry Grove Stadium in Frederick. “It’s definitely a better opportunity for me to move up the ladder [with the Orioles].”

“The Reds were kind of loaded at the corner spots, so I’m excited about being here,” he added.

Waring said the coaching staff in the Orioles’ minor league system makes him happy for the opportunity to play in the organization.

“I’m definitely excited. All of these guys are good guys,” he said. “[There are] good coaches over here with a lot of knowledge. I’ve learned some things already.”

While his experience so far has been relatively positive, the Reds’ seventh-round selection in the 2007 MLB draft admitted that he was worried about adjusting to a new organization before the season started.

“When I was leaving my house for spring training, I was excited, but nervous and anxious at the same time,” he said. “Every organization is the same as far as how they run it, but it’s just getting to know people and getting comfortable with everything going on.”

Uniformity and concentration are the keys to success in professional baseball, and Waring mentioned he wanted to work on both skills during the 2009 season.

“I’m looking to improve on what I did last year [and] be more consistent,” he said. “Come to the park everyday and be focused and ready to go.

Waring hit 20 home runs in each of his first two professional seasons, but he struck out 156 times in 119 games for the Single-A Dayton Dragons last year.

Although he struck out seven times in the first five games of the 2009 season, Waring offered this simple solution to the problem.

“Focus every pitch and every at-bat, and that’s when good things happen,” he concluded.

Despite the strikeouts, that advice seems to be working well for Waring with the Keys early in the 2009 season.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 5:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

Strong pitching performances lifted the Triple-A Norfolk Tides, Double-A Bowie Baysox and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds to victories tonight. The Single-A Frederick Keys attempted a late comeback, but they ultimately fell short in an 8-6 loss.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 7, Charlotte Knights 0 (Box score)

Recap: Tides starting pitcher Chris Tillman collected five strikeouts and walked three hitters in four scoreless innings to lead Norfolk to a 7-0 win over Charlotte. The 20-year-old right-hander didn't allow any hits.

Outfielders Lou Montanez and Nolan Reimold once again led the Tides' offense. Montanez was 3-for-5 with an RBI and Reimold was 3-for-4 with a walk and two runs scored.

The biggest contributor in Norfolk's win, however, was shortstop Jolbert Cabrera. With the Tides clinging to a 2-0 lead in the eighth inning, the 36-year-old infielder hit a grand slam that sealed the victory.

Tides catcher Matt Wieters collected his first multi-hit game of the season. He was 2-for-4 with a walk.

Norfolk relief pitcher Ross Wolf (1-0) earned the win after throwing three scoreless innings. Bob McCrory and Andy Mitchell each added a scoreless inning for the Tides. McCrory allowed Charlotte's only two hits in the eighth.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 2, Erie SeaWolves 1 (Box score)

Recap: It was the first time this season that the SeaWolves suffered a loss, and it was all thanks to Baysox first baseman Brandon Snyder.

The 22-year-old infielder broke a 1-1 tie with a solo home run in the sixth inning to put the Baysox ahead. Snyder finished 3-for-4 in the game, and he is now batting .476 this season.

Designated hitter Paco Figueroa and left fielder Jonathan Tucker each had a double for Bowie. Second baseman Miguel Abreu added a single for the Baysox.

Bowie starting pitcher Bobby Livingston (1-0) earned the victory after giving up one run and six hits in five innings.

Relief pitchers Ryan Keefer, Josh Perrault and Wilfrido Perez combined to toss four scoreless innings to preserve the win. Perez earned his second save of the season after striking out two hitters and issuing one walk in the ninth.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Myrtle Beach Pelicans 8, Frederick Keys 6 (Box score)

Recap: Facing an 8-2 deficit late in the game, the Keys scored four times in the final two innings but suffered an 8-6 loss to Myrtle Beach.

Frederick starting pitcher Sean Gleason (0-1) allowed four runs and four hits in 4 2/3 innings. The 23-year-old right-hander gave up two home runs in his first start during the 2009 season. In 150 2/3 innings last season with the Shorebirds, he only surrendered three home runs.

Third baseman Tyler Henson and catcher Caleb Joseph each hit solo home runs for the Keys. Henson was 2-for-4 with two runs scored, and left fielder Kraig Binick and right fielder Billy Rowell both had two hits for Frederick.

Relief pitcher Brett Bordes allowed four runs and three hits in two innings for the Keys. Left-hander Brian Matusz is scheduled to make his second start for Frederick in Tuesday night's game against the Pelicans.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 2, Hagerstown Suns 1 (Box score)

Recap: Shorebirds starting pitcher Oliver Drake threw six strong innings in his first career start, allowing one run and three hits against Hagerstown. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out six hitters and issued two walks, but he didn't factor in the decision.

Relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa (1-0) tossed three scoreless innings, giving up three hits and walking one batter, to earn the victory.

The Shorebirds were led on offense by designated hitter Elvin Polanco, who was 2-for-4 with a double and two RBIs. Shortstop Greg Miclat was 1-for-4 with a stolen base and a run scored for Delmarva.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides are still searching for their first victory in 2009, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox hope to hand the Erie SeaWolves their first loss of the season.

The Single-A Frederick Keys continue their road trip in Myrtle Beach, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds travel across the state to play the Hagerstown Suns.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Charlotte Knights (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Tillman (11-4, 3.18 ERA with the Baysox in 2008)
Charlotte: Carlos Torres (9-5, 3.42 ERA with Knights and Double-A Birmingham Barons in 2008)

Notes

* Tillman makes his first start for the Tides tonight. The young right-hander, who will celebrate his 21st birthday on Wednesday, was 11-4 with a 3.18 ERA in 28 starts for Bowie last season. Tillman finished second in the Eastern League with 154 strikeouts, but he also was third in the league with 65 walks.

* Torres compiled a 9-5 record with a 3.42 ERA in 29 games (18 starts) while splitting time between Charlotte and Birmingham in the minor league system of the Chicago White Sox. The 26-year-old right-hander was 9-5 with a 3.20 ERA in 21 games (17 starts) with the Barons before collecting a 4.58 ERA in eight games (one start) with the Knights.

* Last season, the Tides didn't hit the team's first home run until the ninth game of the season. Through the first three games in 2009, Norfolk has three home runs -- two by outfielder Nolan Reimold and one by infielder Donnie Murphy. According to the Tides, the fence at Harbor Park was moved in 20 feet this season due to the construction of a party deck. Look for the home runs to continue when the team concludes the season-opening road trip.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Erie SeaWolves (6:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Bobby Livingston (0-0, 9.00 ERA)
Erie: Luis Marte (7-7, 3.76 ERA with three teams in Detroit Tigers' minor league system)

Notes

* Livingston gave up one run and two hits in one inning during a relief appearance against the Akron Aeros on Thursday. The 26-year-old left-hander, who the Orioles signed as a minor league free agent in January, struck out one hitter and issued one walk in the outing. Livingston was 7-6 with a 4.03 ERA in 15 starts for three different teams (rookie-level Gulf Coast Reds, Single-A Sarasota Reds and Triple-A Louisville Bats) in the Cincinnati Reds' minor league system.

* Marte was 3-2 with a 1.98 ERA in seven starts for the Single-A Lakeland Flying Tigers last season. The 22-year-old right-hander also posted a 4-4 record with a 5.05 ERA in 10 starts for the SeaWolves in 2008. Marte has 216 strikeouts in 215 career innings in the minor leagues, but he only struck out 32 hitters in 57 innings for the SeaWolves last year.

* Through four games, Baysox first baseman Brandon Snyder is leading the team with a .412 batting average. The 22-year-old infielder also ranks first on the team with five RBIs. Second baseman Miguel Abreu is hitting .313 (5-for-16) with an RBI and two runs scored so far this season.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Myrtle Beach Pelicans (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Sean Gleason (0-0, 0.00 ERA)
Myrtle Beach: Jose Ortegano (0-1, 13.50 ERA)

Notes

* Gleason will make his first start of the 2009 season after pitching one scoreless inning against the Salem Red Sox on April 10. The 23-year-old right-hander was 12-2 with a 2.63 ERA in 30 games (21 starts) for the Shorebirds in 2008. Gleason only allowed three home runs in 150 2/3 innings last season.

* Pitching out of the bullpen, Ortegano suffered the loss against the Wilmington Blue Rocks on April 9. The 21-year-old left-hander gave up two runs and two hits in 1 1/3 innings for the Pelicans, who are the Single-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. Ortegano was 2-5 with a 4.62 ERA in 17 games (15 starts) for the Single-A Rome Braves in 2008. He led the rookie-level Appalachian League with a 1.48 ERA during the 2007 season with the Danville Braves.

* Caleb Joseph is hitting .308 (4-for-13) with one RBI and two runs scored in three games for the Keys. Shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. is batting .300 (3-for-10) with a home run, four RBIs and four runs scored.

* In the first four games, the Keys committed eight errors. The team made four defensive miscues during the first game of the season against Salem. Third baseman Tyler Henson leads the team with four.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Hagerstown Suns (6:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Oliver Drake (1-0, 0.82 ERA with Aberdeen and Bluefield in 2008)
Hagerstown: Marcos Frias (3-4, 2.92 ERA with the GCL Nationals in 2008)

Notes

* The Shorebirds just announced that Drake will make tonight's start, and left-hander Nathan Nery was sent to the Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds in order to make room on the roster. Drake was 1-0 with a 0.82 ERA in 12 appearances split between the IronBirds and rookie-level Bluefield Orioles in 2008. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out 24 hitters and only issued three walks in 22 innings last season. Tonight will be his first professional start.

* Frias was 3-4 with a 2.92 ERA in 13 games (nine starts) for the Washington Nationals affiliate in the rookie-level Gulf Coast League last season. The 20-year-old right-hander struck out 38 hitters and issued 14 walks in 64 2/3 innings in 2008.

* With six RBIs in yesterday's victory over the Lakewood BlueClaws, Joe Mahoney is leading the team by an overwhelming margin in that category. The 22-year-old first baseman has seven RBIs overall, while Greg Miclat and LJ Hoes are tied for second with two each. Mahoney also leads the team in batting average (.375), triples (two), hits (six) and total bases (10).

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 3:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

Brad Bergesen established a franchise record for wins with the Double-A Bowie Baysox in 2008, but which pitcher finished second on the team?

It wasn’t Chris Tillman or David Hernandez, who both joined Bergesen in Triple-A Norfolk’s starting rotation to begin the 2009 season.

You can probably tell by the title of this entry that it was Jason Berken, who is pitching in Bowie for the second straight year.

Despite going 12-4 with a 3.58 ERA for the Baysox in 2008, Berken said he wasn't upset with the Orioles’ decision to start him at Bowie again.

“That’s totally out of my control. I try not to focus on things that are out of my control,” the 25-year-old right-hander said at the team’s media day last week at Prince George’s Stadium.

“What I can control is to have another good year, put up good numbers again,” Berken added. “[I can] just continue to work hard, regardless of where I am.”

What skills does the 6-foot, 175-pound starting pitcher plan to improve in 2009?

“I try to fine tune things,” he said. “I think this year I really want to work on slowing the tempo down and controlling my game a little better.”

Berken suffered the loss in Bowie’s first game of the season against the Akron Aeros. He allowed three runs and two hits in three innings. Berken walked four hitters and collected three strikeouts in the game.

Berken is expected to start for the Baysox (1-3) again in Tuesday night’s game against the Erie SeaWolves, who are undefeated (4-0) so far this season.

While he generally depends on his slider to get outs, Berken said his changeup contributed to his success last season.

“My changeup is one of my most improved pitches,” he said. “It’s one that I went to in big situations.”

The Orioles’ sixth-round selection in the 2006 MLB draft credited former Baysox pitching coach Mike Griffin, who is now with the Tides, for much of his success in 2008.

“Last year, [Griffin] helped me an unbelievable amount as far as the mental part of the game,” Berken said.

Another coach who helped in the early part of his professional career is former Orioles pitcher Calvin Maduro, according to Berken.

Maduro was the pitching coach for the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds during Berken’s first season in the minor leagues in 2006, and he is currently the pitching coach for the rookie-level Gulf Coast Orioles.

“Just coming from college, I didn’t know a lot about pro ball,” Berken said. “He’s someone that made a big difference initially.”

Berken seemed to have the right idea to help the Baysox make a second consecutive appearance in the Eastern League playoffs.

What is the primary goal for the 2009 season?

“Give us a chance to win every time I pitch,” he concluded.

Note: The original version of this post mentioned Berken was scheduled to start tonight's game against Erie. The Baysox, however, have since announced that Berken will pitch tomorrow night and left-hander Bobby Livingston will start tonight.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost in a close game, but the Single-A Frederick Keys and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds earned victories in the final games of their series.

The Tides travel to play the Charlotte Knights tomorrow at 7:15 p.m., while the Double-A Bowie Baysox return to action on the road against the Erie SeaWolves at 6:35 p.m.

The Keys head to Myrtle Beach for four games against the Pelicans beginning at 7 p.m. tomorrow. Delmarva begins a three-game series with the Hagerstown Suns tomorrow at 6:35 p.m.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Durham Bulls 2, Norfolk Tides 1 (Box score)

Recap: In a classic pitchers' duel, Durham edged the Tides, 2-1, after scoring a run in the bottom of the ninth inning against Norfolk relief pitcher Jim Miller (0-1).

Tides starter David Hernandez struck out nine hitters in 4 2/3 innings, allowing one run and two hits. The 23-year-old right-hander walked two batters. Wade Davis gave up one run and two hits in four innings for the Bulls. He collected five strikeouts and issued three walks.

Norfolk catcher Matt Wieters picked up his first hit of the season, but he was 1-for-4 in the game. Overall, the 22-year-old prospect is hitting .091 (1-for-11) through three games. Right fielder Lou Montanez had two of the Tides' four hits, and he is now batting .583 (7-for-12) this season.

Ex-Orioles right-hander Winston Abreu (1-0) earned the win for Durham after pitching two perfect innings.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 3, Salem Red Sox 2 (Box score)

Recap: Tim Bascom (1-0) tossed five scoreless innings, and the Keys bullpen held on for a 3-2 victory over Salem in the series finale. The 24-year-old right-hander gave up four hits and one walk in the game.

Keys first baseman Brandon Waring remained hot, going 2-for-4 with an RBI. Second baseman Ryan Adams was 2-for-5 with a double for Frederick. Keys designated hitter Billy Rowell was 1-for-3 with a double and a walk.

John Mariotti allowed two runs (one earned) and three hits in three innings for the Keys. Cliff Flagello pitched a scoreless inning to earn his first save of the season for Frederick.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 14, Lakewood BlueClaws 5 (Box score)

Recap: Twelve of the Shorebirds' 14 hits were singles, but it was more than enough in a 14-5 victory over the BlueClaws.

Designated hitter Joe Mahoney paced the Shorebirds by going 4-for-5 with a triple, a run scored and six RBIs. Delmarva outfielder Ronnie Welty was 3-for-5 with a double, an RBI and three runs scored. Jacob Julius also scored three times for the Shorebirds.

Delmarva starting pitcher Nathan Nery (1-0) earned the victory after giving up two runs and five hits in five innings. The 23-year-old left-hander walked three hitters and collected three strikeouts.

Relief pitcher Brandon Cooney struggled with his control for the Shorebirds. The 23-year-old right-hander gave up three runs in 1 1/3 innings. He walked four hitters, hit three batters and threw two wild pitches in the outing.

Every Shorebirds starter had at least one hit in the game.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (12)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Durham Bulls (5:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Hernandez (10-4, 2.68 ERA with the Baysox in 2008)
Durham: Wade Davis (13-8, 3.47 ERA with the Bulls and Double-A Montgomery Biscuits in 2008)

Notes

* After two seasons with an ERA above 4.00 in Single-A -- 4.15 in 2006 with Delmarva and 4.95 in 2007 with Frederick -- Hernandez dropped to 2.68 in 27 starts with the Baysox last season. The 23-year-old right-hander was 10-4 with 166 strikeouts in 141 innings for Bowie. He was first in the Double-A Eastern League in strikeouts and third in ERA, but he also led the league with 71 walks. Today's start offers a first glimpse at how Hernandez will perform in 2009.

* Davis, who the Tampa Bay Rays selected in the third round of the 2004 MLB draft, split the 2008 season between Durham and Montgomery. The 23-year-old right-hander was 9-6 with a 3.85 ERA in 19 starts with the Biscuits, and he compiled a 4-2 record with a 2.72 ERA in nine starts with the Bulls. In 609 minor league innings, Davis has struck out 605 hitters.

* Through the first two games of the season, Tides outfielders Lou Montanez and Nolan Reimold are tearing up the Durham pitching staff. Montanez is 5-for-8 (.625) with two doubles and a run scored, while Reimold is 4-for-9 (.444) with two home runs and four RBIs. Norfolk infielder Oscar Salazar is 3-for-9 (.333) with a triple and a run scored.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

The Baysox will begin a three-game series on the road against the Erie SeaWolves on Monday at 6:35 p.m. Erie is 4-0 to start the 2009 season, while the Baysox are 1-3.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Salem Red Sox (2:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Tim Bascom (0-0, 9.00 ERA)
Salem: Jarod Plummer (4-1, 4.19 ERA with the Double-A Northwest Arkansas Naturals in 2008)

Notes

* Bascom gave up one run and one hit while pitching in relief during the season opener against Salem. The 24-year-old right-hander was 6-5 with a 5.78 ERA in 19 starts last season with the Keys, but he pitched strong down the stretch. In August, Bascom was 3-0 with a 3.44 ERA. He allowed 15 home runs in 95 innings for Frederick in 2008.

* Plummer is entering his eighth season in the minor leagues. The Los Angeles Dodgers originally selected the 25-year-old right-hander in the 26th round of the 2002 MLB draft. He also has played in the Kansas City Royals' minor league system. Last season, Plummer was 4-1 with a 4.19 ERA in the Royals organization as a member of Northwest Arkansas in the Double-A Texas League.

* Keys infielder Brandon Waring is 4-for-12 with three doubles and four runs scored in 2009. Outfielder Kraig Binick is 4-for-12 with a double, a home run and three RBIs this season. It's a small sample size, but six Keys hitters are batting over .300 in the first three games of the year.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Lakewood BlueClaws (1:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Nathan Nery (7-3, 3.39 ERA with the Shorebirds)
Lakewood: Jesus Sanchez (first professional start)

Notes

* In 15 starts for the Shorebirds in 2008, Nery was 7-3 with a 3.39 ERA. The 23-year-old left-hander collected 59 strikeouts and issued 22 walks in 82 1/3 innings last season.

* Sanchez makes his first professional start for Lakewood today. The 21-year-old right-hander played in 35 games as a catcher with the BlueClaws in 2008. He batted .186 with one home run and seven RBIs. In three minor league seasons as a catcher, Sanchez hit .220 with one home run and 21 RBIs. He pitched one scoreless inning for the GCL Phillies last season.

* Shorebirds second baseman LJ Hoes is 3-for-11 with two doubles and two RBIs in the first three games of the 2009 season. Third baseman Tyler Kolodny is batting .308 (4-for-13) with one RBI and one run scored for Delmarva. Outfielder Kyle Hudson leads the team with two stolen bases.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

On Saturday, all four of the Orioles' full-season affiliates failed to make it into the win column.

The Single-A Frederick Keys and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds each suffered a one-run loss, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox were handed a lopsided defeat by the Akron Aeros. The Triple-A Norfolk Tides fell to the Durham Bulls, 8-4.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Durham Bulls 8, Norfolk Tides 4 (Box score)

Recap: Everyone watching the matchup between two of the top prospects in baseball -- Tides catcher Matt Wieters and Bulls starting pitcher David Price -- likely went home disappointed.

Wieters was 0-for-4 with a walk, two strikeouts and a throwing error in the Tides' 8-4 loss, and Price allowed two runs and four hits in 3 2/3 innings for Durham. Neither player lived up to the hype in this particular performance, but there's still plenty of time left in the 2009 season.

Tides left fielder Nolan Reimold hit a two-run home run in the second inning against Price. The 25-year-old outfielder was 2-for-5 with three RBIs in the game. Right fielder Lou Montanez was 3-for-5 with a double and a run scored for Norfolk. Second baseman Donnie Murphy hit a solo home run in the eighth inning, and Oscar Salazar added two hits for the Tides.

Chris Waters (0-1) suffered the loss after giving up four runs and six hits in 3 1/3 innings.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Akron Aeros 12, Bowie Baysox 2 (Box score)

Recap: It was an ugly night in Akron for the Baysox.

Bowie only surrendered six hits to the Aeros, but Akron scored 12 runs. Baysox pitchers combined to walk 10 batters, and the team committed four errors.

Baysox starter Brandon Erbe (0-1) picked up the loss after giving up three runs (one earned) in three innings. The 21-year-old right-hander didn't allow any hits, but he walked four batters. Bowie relief pitcher Fredy Deza gave up four runs (three earned) and two hits in two innings, and Ryan Keefer allowed four runs and two hits in 1/3 of an inning.

Bowie first baseman Brandon Snyder extended his hitting streak to four games with an RBI double. He was 2-for-4 with two strikeouts. Third baseman Jonathan Tucker also had two hits for the Baysox.

Akron wasn't immune to the defensive breakdown. The Aeros made three errors.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Salem Red Sox 6, Frederick Keys 5 (Box score)

Recap: Zach Britton shined in his Keys debut, allowing only one unearned run and three hits in five innings, but Frederick suffered a 6-5 loss to Salem. The 21-year-old left-hander walked four hitters and collected three strikeouts.

Keys relief pitcher Chris Salberg (0-1) picked up the loss after giving up five runs and three hits in 1 1/3 innings. The 24-year-old left-hander struck out two hitters, hit two batters and issued two walks. Luis Lebron had three strikeouts and two walks in 1 2/3 innings for the Keys.

Frederick center fielder Kraig Binick hit a two-run home run against Salem starting pitcher Jose Capellan with one out in the fourth inning. Brandon Waring, who was playing third base tonight for the Keys, was 2-for-4 with a double and two runs scored. Designated hitter Ryan Adams was 2-for-4 with a double and two RBIs for Frederick.

Keys second baseman Tyler Henson, who committed his fourth error of the season in the game, was ejected by the home plate umpire in the ninth inning.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Lakewood BlueClaws 3, Delmarva Shorebird 2, 11 innings (Box score)

Recap: BlueClaws center fielder D'Arby Myers hit an RBI single against Delmarva relief pitcher Andy Schindling (0-1) in the bottom of the 11th inning to lift Lakewood to a 3-2 victory over the Shorebirds.

Delmarva forced extra innings when LJ Hoes hit an RBI double with two outs in the top of the ninth. The 19-year-old second baseman was 2-for-4 in the game. Jacob Julius also had two hits for the Shorebirds.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Ryan O'Shea gave up one run and four hits in five innings. Reliever Pat Egan pitched three scoreless innings for Delmarva.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides were rained out last night, so the notes below are the same that I posted yesterday about them.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds look to build on last night's victories, while the Single-A Frederick Keys hope to rebound from yesterday's loss.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Durham Bulls

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Waters (8-6, 4.65 ERA in minors; 3-5, 5.01 ERA with Orioles)
Durham: David Price (12-1, 2.30 ERA in minors; 0-0, 1.93 ERA with Tampa Bay Rays)

Notes

* This is the first 2009 matchup that everyone is waiting for -- Price against Orioles top prospect Matt Wieters. The 6-foot-6, 225-pound left-hander rapidly climbed through the Rays' minor league system in 2008. He made stops in Single-A, Double-A and Triple-A before finishing the season with the Rays. Price collected 109 strikeouts and walked 32 hitters in 109 2/3 innings in the minor leagues. Wieters struggled in the season opener Thursday, going 0-for-3 with a walk and two strikeouts. These two players could meet for several years in the majors, so it will be interesting to see what happens tonight in Durham, N.C.

* Waters was 1-1 with a 6.48 ERA in three starts against Durham in 2008. The 28-year-old left-hander had 13 strikeouts and walked seven hitters in 16 2/3 innings against the Bulls. He was 5-0 with a 1.69 ERA at Bowie before being promoted to Norfolk in the middle of last season.

* This is an interesting tidbit from the Tides' game preview -- none of Norfolk's position players and only two pitchers (Waters and Alberto Castillo) are left-handed throwers. It really doesn't have a lot to do with the game, but I thought it was one of those quirky facts that was worth sharing.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Akron Aeros

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Brandon Erbe (10-12, 4.30 ERA with the Keys in 2008)
Akron: Steven Wright (6-7, 3.66 ERA with the Aeros and Single-A Kinston Indians in 2008)

Notes

* As a member of the Keys last season, Erbe led the Carolina League in strikeouts (151) and finished second in innings (150 2/3). The 21-year-old right-hander, however, also led the league with 21 home runs allowed in 2008. Erbe needs to reduce that number this season, in my opinion, in order to remain on the path to the major leagues with the Orioles.

* Wright split the 2008 season between Akron and Single-A Kinston. The 24-year-old right-hander was 2-4 with a 2.99 ERA in 14 starts with Kinston, and he compiled a 4-3 record with a 4.30 ERA in 14 starts with the Aeros. Wright allowed 20 home runs between the two levels in 2008. Today's matchup (1:35 p.m.) could see a lot of home runs being hit out of Canal Park in Akron.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Salem Red Sox

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Zach Britton (12-7, 3.12 ERA with the Shorebirds in 2008)
Salem: Jose Capellan (3-6, 4.65 ERA with Single-A Greenville Drive in 2008)

Notes

* Britton moves up to Frederick after pitching well for Delmarva in 2008. The 21-year-old left-hander was 12-7 with a 3.12 ERA in 27 starts for the Shorebirds. He collected 114 strikeouts and walked 49 hitters in 147 1/3 innings at Delmarva. It's going to be interesting to see how Britton pitches with the Keys in 2009.

* Capellan was 3-6 with a 4.65 ERA in 15 starts for Greenville last season. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out 54 hitters and issued 15 walks in 69 2/3 innings with the Drive.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Lakewood BlueClaws

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Ryan O'Shea (2-1, 3.00 ERA with the Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds in 2008)
Lakewood: Robert Roth (7-2, 3.39 ERA with the Single-A Williamsport Crosscutters in 2008)

Notes

* O'Shea made 16 relief appearances for the IronBirds in 2008, but the Orioles have shifted the 22-year-old right-hander into the starting rotation at Delmarva this season. O'Shea was 2-1 with a 3.00 ERA with Aberdeen last year, and he struck out 31 hitters in 33 innings.

* Roth pitched in the New York-Penn League during the 2008 season. The 20-year-old right-hander was 7-2 with a 3.39 ERA in 10 starts for the Crosscutters. He allowed 47 hits and walked 21 batters in 58 1/3 innings.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The highly anticipated matchup between Orioles top prospect Matt Wieters and Tampa Bay Rays top prospect David Price didn't happen tonight. The game between the Triple-A Norfolk Tides and Durham Bulls was postponed due to rain.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds both earned victories, but the Single-A Frederick Keys suffered a one-run loss.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Postponed due to rain.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 3, Akron Aeros 0 (Box score)

Recap: In his first start as a member of the Orioles' minor league system, Baysox left-hander Troy Patton (1-0) pitched five scoreless innings against the Akron Aeros. The 23-year-old pitcher gave up three hits and walked three hitters in Bowie's 3-0 victory. Patton struck out three batters.

Baysox first baseman Brandon Snyder was 1-for-4 with two RBIs. Catcher Guillermo Rodriguez led the Baysox with two hits, and he also scored a run. Designated hitter Paco Figueroa added a double and a run scored for Bowie.

Wilfrido Perez pitched out of trouble in the ninth inning to earn his first save of the season. The 24-year-old left-hander walked a batter and gave up a single, but he got Aeros second baseman Niuman Romero to ground into a game-ending double play.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Salem Red Sox 3, Frederick Keys 2 (Box score)

Recap: Shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. hit a two-run home run in the third inning, but the Keys lost, 3-2, to Salem. Frederick first baseman Brandon Waring was 1-for-3 with a double and a run scored.

Keys right fielder Billy Rowell threw out Red Sox designated hitter Jason Place at home plate in the fourth inning. Offensively, Rowell was 0-for-4 with a strikeout.

Frederick starting pitcher Pedro Beato (0-1) gave up three runs and six hits in five innings. The 22-year-old right-hander had two strikeouts and walked one hitter.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 3, Lakewood BlueClaws 1 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Cole McCurry tossed four scoreless innings in the Shorebirds' 3-1 victory over Lakewood. The 23-year-old left-hander gave up four hits, walked two hitters and collected four strikeouts. Delmarva right-hander Raul Rivero (1-0) earned the victory after allowing one run and three hits in two innings.

Shorebirds first baseman Joe Mahoney hit an RBI triple in the sixth inning. Shortstop Greg Miclat was 1-for-3 with an RBI single for Delmarva, and catcher Luis Bernardo had a double and a run scored.

Shorebirds right-hander Joe Esposito picked up his first save of the season after striking out two hitters in the ninth inning.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Still searching for their first victory of the 2009 season, the Double-A Bowie Baysox will send left-hander Troy Patton to the mound against the Akron Aeros.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides look to rebound from a 2-1 loss to the Durham Bulls, while the Single-A Frederick Keys and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds hope to build on last night's victories.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Durham Bulls

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Waters (8-6, 4.65 ERA in minors; 3-5, 5.01 ERA with Orioles)
Durham: David Price (12-1, 2.30 ERA in minors; 0-0, 1.93 ERA with Tampa Bay Rays)

Notes

* This is the first 2009 matchup that everyone is waiting for -- Price against Orioles top prospect Matt Wieters. The 6-foot-6, 225-pound left-hander rapidly climbed through the Rays' minor league system in 2008. He made stops in Single-A, Double-A and Triple-A before finishing the season with the Rays. Price collected 109 strikeouts and walked 32 hitters in 109 2/3 innings in the minor leagues. Wieters struggled in the season opener yesterday, going 0-for-3 with a walk and two strikeouts. These two players could meet for several years in the majors, so it will be interesting to see what happens tonight in Durham, N.C.

* Waters was 1-1 with a 6.48 ERA in three starts against Durham in 2008. The 28-year-old left-hander had 13 strikeouts and walked seven hitters in 16 2/3 innings against the Bulls. He was 5-0 with a 1.69 ERA at Bowie before being promoted to Norfolk in the middle of last season.

* This is an interesting tidbit from the Tides' game preview -- none of Norfolk's position players and only two pitchers (Waters and Alberto Castillo) are left-handed throwers. It really doesn't have a lot to do with the game, but I thought it was one of those quirky facts that was worth sharing.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Akron Aeros

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Troy Patton (did not pitch in 2008)
Akron: Josh Tomlin (10-5, 3.04 ERA with Kinston Indians and Buffalo Bisons in 2008)

Notes

* Patton hasn't pitched in an official game in over a year, but he says there have been no setbacks from the labrum surgery in his throwing shoulder. Patton was 10-8 with a 3.51 ERA while splitting time between the Double-A Corpus Christi Hooks and the Triple-A Round Rock Express in 2007. While the Orioles are stockpiling pitchers in the minor leagues, Patton's progress is key to judging the Miguel Tejada trade to the Astros.

* Tomlin was used primarily as a relief pitcher with the Single-A Kinston Indians and Triple-A Buffalo Bisons in the Cleveland Indians' minor league system last season. The 24-year-old right-hander made 41 appearances (10 starts) in 2008. Overall, he was 10-5 with a 3.04 ERA and three saves. Tomlin had 112 strikeouts and only walked 17 hitters in 109 2/3 innings.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Salem Red Sox

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Pedro Beato (4-10, 5.85 ERA for Keys in 2008)
Salem: Eammon Portice (4-4, 3.64 ERA for Single-A Greenville Drive in 2008)

Notes

* Beato hopes to rebound from a poor performance last season to prove that he's still worthy of recognition in the Orioles' minor league system. The 6-foot-5, 210-pound right-hander battled a shoulder injury in 2008, and he stumbled to a 4-10 record with a 5.85 ERA in 19 starts for the Keys. The Orioles selected Beato in the supplemental portion of the first round in the 2006 MLB draft.

* The Red Sox selected Portice in the 12th round of the 2007 MLB draft. The 6-foot-2, 185-pound right-hander was 4-4 with a 3.64 ERA in 18 games (11 starts) for the Single-A Greenville Drive in the South Atlantic League during the 2008 season. He had 80 strikeouts and walked 26 hitters in 71 2/3 innings.

* Center fielder Matt Angle, the Orioles' seventh round selection in the 2007 MLB draft, provided a spark for the Keys' offense yesterday. The 23-year-old outfielder had three hits, including a triple. He also stole two bases, scored two runs and collected an RBI.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Lakewood BlueClaws

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (10-9, 4.29 ERA with Shorebirds and Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds in 2008)
Lakewood: Jason Knapp (3-1, 2.61 ERA with GCL Phillies in 2008)

Notes

* McCurry started last season with the Shorebirds, but he struggled mightily and was sent to the short-season New York-Penn League. The 6-foot-2, 180-pound left-hander was 2-6 with a 6.51 ERA in 13 games (12 starts) for the Shorebirds in 2008. McCurry shined with the IronBirds, however, going 8-3 with a 2.76 ERA in 15 starts. He struck out 75 hitters in 81 2/3 innings with Aberdeen.

* Knapp, an 18-year-old right-hander, was 3-1 with a 2.61 ERA in seven games (six starts) for the GCL Phillies in 2008. The 6-foot-5, 215-pound pitcher struck out 38 hitters and issued 12 walks in 31 innings. He was one of the Phillies' two second-round picks in last year's MLB draft.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews