The Triple-A Norfolk Tides beat the Columbus Clippers, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox won against the Harrisburg Senators.

The Single-A Frederick Keys earned a shutout win over the Salem Red Sox, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds made it a clean sweep for the four full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system with a victory over the Kannapolis Intimidators.

Prior to today's game, relief pitcher Fredy Deza was transferred back to Bowie from the Tides. Also, Radhames Liz will start tomorrow night for Norfolk.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 7, Columbus Clippers 3 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Oscar Salazar was 3-for-5 with a two-run home run, and the Tides defeated Columbus, 7-3, for their fourth straight win.

Norfolk starting pitcher Andy Mitchell (4-1) earned the victory in his second start of the season. The 30-year-old right-hander gave up three runs and seven hits in six innings for the Tides.

Catcher Steve Torrealba and designated hitter Jolbert Cabrera each contributed two hits and an RBI for Norfolk, while center fielder Justin Christian was added a double and three RBIs.

Tides relief pitcher Chris Ray retired all six batters he faced in order to pick up his first save of the season. The 27-year-old right-hander collected two strikeouts.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 7, Harrisburg Senators 4 (Box score)

Recap: Left fielder Joe Nowicki collected three hits, including a three-run home run, to lead the Baysox to a 7-4 victory over Harrisburg in the series finale.

Bowie right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion was 2-for-4 with two runs scored, and designated hitter Guillermo Rodriguez was 2-for-4 with one run scored.

Baysox starting pitcher Sean Gleason (3-3) earned the win after allowing two runs and seven hits in seven innings. Relief pitcher Josh Perrault recorded the final four outs to earn his sixth save of the season for Bowie.

Center fielder Dave Krynzel and third baseman Jonathan Tucker each added an RBI for the Baysox.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 6, Salem Red Sox 0 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Brian Matusz (4-2) scattered five hits in seven scoreless innings to lead the Keys over Salem, 6-0, in the series finale. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out four batters and issued one walk.

Frederick shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. was 3-for-5 with a pair of two-run home runs, and second baseman Bobby Stevens added a solo shot.

Catcher Caleb Joseph was 1-for-3 with a walk and an RBI for the Keys, and center fielder Matt Angle was 1-for-3 with two walks and two runs scored.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 9, Kannapolis Intimidators 2 (Box score)

Recap: Six Shorebirds players had at least two hits, and the team collected 18 total hits in a 9-2 victory over Kannapolis.

Delmarva shortstop Greg Miclat, right fielder Ronnie Welty and second baseman LJ Hoes each had three hits and an RBI.

Shorebirds left fielder Kyle Hudson was 2-for-4 with a double and two runs scored, and first baseman Elvin Polanco and center fielder Xavier Avery each added two hits.

Starting pitcher Nathan Moreau (1-1) gave up two runs and eight hits in five innings for the Shorebirds.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides take on the Columbus Clippers, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox host the Harrisburg Senators at Prince George's Stadium.

The Single-A Frederick Keys play the Salem Red Sox, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds face the Kannapolis Intimidators.

Prior to yesterday's game, the Shorebirds sent relief pitcher Colin Allen to extended spring training. To fill his spot, Delmarva added right-hander Travis Keating to their roster.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Columbus Clippers (1:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Andy Mitchell (3-1, 3.29)
Columbus: Chuck Lofgren (3-1, 1.48 ERA with the Double-A Akron Aeros this season)

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Harrisburg Senators (2:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Sean Gleason (2-3, 7.08 ERA)
Harrisburg: Erik Arnesen (2-1, 2.84 ERA)

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Salem Red Sox (2:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Brian Matusz (3-2, 2.68 ERA)
Salem: Jose Capellan (2-1, 6.75 ERA)

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Kannapolis Intimidators (5:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Nathan Moreau (0-1, 6.43 ERA)
Kannapolis: Charlie Leesman (4-3, 2.82 ERA)

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

In case you missed it earlier, I provided live updates from the press box during the Double-A Bowie Baysox's victory over the Harrisburg Senators. Check them out by clicking here.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides defeated the Columbus Clippers, and the Single-A Frederick Keys beat the Salem Red Sox. The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds fell to the Kannapolis Intimidators.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 4, Columbus Clippers 2 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Jeff Fiorentino was 2-for-5 with two doubles and two RBIs to lead the Tides to a 4-2 victory over Columbus.

Norfolk starting pitcher Chris Waters (6-2) allowed two runs and six hits in six innings.

Center fielder Justin Christian added two hits and two runs scored for the Tides, while third baseman Melvin Dorta and second baseman Justin Turner each collected an RBI.

Relief pitchers Bob McCrory, Alberto Castillo and Jim Miller each tossed a scoreless inning for the Tides. Castillo picked up three strikeouts, and Miller earned his 12th save of the season.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 7, Harrisburg Senators 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Troy Patton (6-1) retired the first six hitters, and the Baysox earned a 7-2 victory over Harrisburg at Prince George's Stadium.

The 23-year-old left-hander allowed two runs and five hits in seven-plus innings for Bowie, but he wasn't entirely pleased with his performance.

"It was hit or miss. Sometimes [things were working], sometimes they didn't," Patton said. "I threw some sliders right where I wanted to, and some sliders didn't do anything."

"It wasn't as consistent as I would like to be, but we came out with the win so I can't complain too much," he added.

Patton, who struck out three batters and issued two walks, tired in the eighth inning. He allowed a solo home run to Harrisburg catcher Jhonatan Solano and walked shortstop Michael Martinez.

"I was more mentally tired than I was physically," Patton said. "When I went out there, I just wasn't mentally ready. I got behind both those guys real quick, and that's not my style."

Bowie manager Brad Komminsk was pleased with Patton's performance, but he knew the starting pitcher was ready to come out of the game.

"It was just time to get him. We were going to give him a chance to get eight innings in, but he just didn't get it done," Komminsk said. "He gave us seven quality innings though, and you can't ask for much more than that from a starter."

Bowie's big offensive blow came in the bottom of the fifth inning when third baseman Mike Costanzo hit a grand slam against Senators starting pitcher Justin Jones.

"We've been practicing on hitting the ball the other way to get some backspin on [it] since I haven't been doing that very much," Costanzo said. "It felt good. I got a good pitch to hit, and luckily it went out."

Baysox second baseman Miguel Abreu collected two hits, including a solo home run in the second inning.

"I try to be patient and go to the other side," Abreu said. "That's why I think I've been hitting good."

Shortstop Robert Valido was 3-for-4 for the Baysox, raising his batting average to .197 this season.

"I was seeing the ball pretty good," Valido said. "I've just been working on stuff every day and it just turned out pretty good."

Baysox center fielder Danny Figueroa, left fielder Jonathan Tucker and designated hitter Dave Krynzel each added two hits. First baseman Brandon Snyder was 0-for-3 with three strikeouts and an intentional walk for Bowie.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 8, Salem Red Sox 4 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Brandon Waring was 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBIs, and the Keys cruised to an 8-4 win over Salem.

Frederick center fielder Matt Angle collected three hits, and third baseman Tyler Henson was 1-for-2 with a double and two RBIs. Henson was ejected in the fifth inning.

Keys starting pitcher Tim Bascom (4-4) earned the victory after giving up two runs and six hits in six innings. The 24-year-old right-hander collected four strikeouts and didn't walk anyone.

Designated hitter Robbie Widlansky was 2-for-4 with a double and two runs scored for the Keys, and infielder Bobby Stevens added two hits, an RBI and a run scored.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Kannapolis Intimidators 4, Delmarva Shorebirds 3 (Box score)

Recap: The Shorebirds collected 13 hits as a team, but the runs weren't as frequent in a 4-3 loss on the road against Kannapolis.

Delmarva shortstop Greg Miclat led the team with four hits, including two doubles, and two runs scored. First baseman Elvin Polanco was 4-for-5 with two RBIs for the Shorebirds, and left fielder Kyle Hudson added three hits and a run scored.

Starting pitcher Oliver Drake allowed three runs (two earned) and five hits in seven innings for Delmarva, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out six batters and issued three walks.

Shorebirds relief pitcher Raul Rivero (4-1) suffered the loss after giving up an unearned run in the eighth inning. A wild pitch by Rivero allowed Intimidators second baseman Drew Garcia to move to second base and a passed ball by Delmarva catcher Luis Bernardo let the go-ahead run score.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Starting pitcher Troy Patton tossed seven-plus innings to lead the Baysox to a 7-2 victory over the Harrisburg Senators.

Patton allowed a solo home run to Senators catcher Jhonatan Solano to lead off the top of the eighth. He then walked Harrisburg shortstop Michael Martinez before being removed with a 7-2 lead and no outs in the inning.

At my count, Patton threw 95 pitches (57 strikes) for Bowie.

Baysox relief pitcher Ryan Ouellette retired the first two batters before allowing a single to Harrisburg center fielder Elijah Dukes. Ouellette got Senators third baseman Joel Guzman to fly out to end the eighth.

Catcher Adam Donachie and right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion grounded out for the Baysox in the bottom of the inning before shortstop Robert Valido picked up his third single of the game. Bowie designated hitter Dave Krynzel struck out swinging to end the inning.

Ouellette retired the side in order in the top of the ninth to seal the win for the Baysox.

I'll have more to share in the game recaps later tonight, but I'm heading to the clubhouse to talk to some of the players right now.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Senators shortstop Michael Martinez smacked a double into left field to lead off the sixth inning. Martinez scored the first run for Harrisburg against Baysox starting pitcher Troy Patton on a groundout by left fielder Michael Daniel.

Baysox right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion struck out to start the bottom of the sixth, and shortstop Robert Valido grounded out to second base. Designated hitter Dave Krynzel hit a double into right-center field with two outs for Bowie, and left fielder Jonathan Tucker knocked him in with an RBI single to give the Baysox a 7-1 lead.

First baseman Brandon Snyder struck out to end the sixth for the Baysox. He is now 0-for-3 with an intentional walk and three strikeouts in the game. Luckily for Bowie, it hasn't seemed to bother them to this point.

Baysox left fielder Jonathan Tucker made a diving catch to rob Senators first baseman Matt Whitney of a base hit to lead off the seventh. Patton struck out designated hitter Luke Montz on three pitches and retired Harrisburg second baseman Jemel Spearman on a groundout. The 23-year-old left-hander only threw six pitches in the inning, and he is at 85 pitches (54 strikes) through seven innings.

Third baseman Mike Costanzo, second baseman Miguel Abreu and pinch hitter Joe Nowicki all grounded out in order for the Baysox in the bottom of the seventh.

After seven innings, the Baysox are leading, 7-1.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

In the fourth inning, Baysox starting pitcher Troy Patton threw six of his 11 pitches for strikes. Senators center fielder Elijah Dukes popped out to first base, third baseman Joel Guzman lined to center field, and first baseman Matt Whitney hit a slow roller that Patton fielded and flipped to first base.

Baysox second baseman Miguel Abreu and center fielder Danny Figueroa led off the bottom of the fourth with back-to-back singles. Catcher Adam Donachie grounded into a 5-4-3 double play, and right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion struck out swinging to end the inning.

Senators designated hitter Luke Montz slapped a single past Abreu to lead off the top of the fifth against Patton. Montz was retired on a fielder's choice, and catcher Jhonatan Solano hit into a double play to end the inning.

Patton only threw eight pitches (six strikes) in the fifth. According to my count, which is unofficial, he has thrown 66 pitches (41 strikes) so far in the game.

Baysox shortstop Robert Valido hit a ground ball to second base to start the bottom of the fifth. Senators starting pitcher Justin Jones was late covering first base, and Valido reached on an infield single. Center fielder Dave Krynzel struck out looking for Bowie, and left fielder Jonathan Tucker singled to center field.

Both runners moved up when Harrisburg center fielder Elijah Dukes threw the ball past his cutoff man, and then Baysox first baseman Brandon Snyder was walked intentionally to load the bases. Third baseman Mike Costanzo followed with a grand slam to put the Baysox in front, 6-0.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Baysox starting pitcher Troy Patton was a little wild to start the third inning. The 23-year-old left-hander walked Senators second baseman Ofilio Castro on five pitches, but he quickly retired the next two hitters on fly outs.

After allowing a single to Harrisburg right fielder Edgardo Baez, Patton got left fielder Michael Daniel to hit a ground ball to Baysox shortstop Robert Valido. He stepped on second base to end the inning.

Baysox right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion hit a triple to left field to start the bottom of the third. Daniel took a bad route to the ball, which skipped past him all the way to the wall. Valido followed with an RBI single to left field, putting Bowie up, 2-0, over the Senators.

Center fielder Dave Krynzel followed with a single to left field for the Baysox, and left fielder Jonathan Tucker flied out to right. With Baysox first baseman Brandon Snyder batting, Valido and Krynzel pulled off a double steal. Snyder struck out and third baseman Mike Costanzo grounded out to end the inning.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 7:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

There are some things that you can't make up.

In the top of the first inning, Senators left fielder Michael Daniel hit a foul ball that came back off the roof of the stadium and landed right in a woman's drink. Perfect shot, right into the cup.

Baysox starting pitcher Troy Patton retired the side in order in the first. Harrisburg right fielder Edgardo Baez flied out to right field, before Patton struck out Daniel swinging. Center fielder Elijah Dukes hit a fly ball to deep center field to end the inning. Patton threw 14 pitches (nine strikes).

The Baysox also went down in order during the first inning. Designated hitter Dave Krynzel hit a deep fly ball to right field, but it was caught on the warning track. Bowie left fielder Jonathan Tucker grounded out to third base, and first baseman Brandon Snyder struck out looking.

Patton stayed strong in the top of the second. Harrisburg third baseman Joel Guzman popped out to Baysox second baseman Miguel Abreu, first baseman Matt Whitney struck out looking and designated hitter Luke Montz popped out to Baysox shortstop Robert Valido. Patton threw 16 pitches (13 strikes) in the inning.

The Baysox jumped into the lead in the second inning. After third baseman Mike Costanzo grounded out, second baseman Miguel Abreu hit a solo home run to left field, giving Bowie a 1-0 advantage.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 7:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

It's a beautiful day -- not one cloud within sight here in the press box -- for baseball, but there seems to be plenty of open seats in the stadium. I'm pretty sure Matt Wieters playing in Baltimore might have something to do with that.

Here are some other notes, courtesy of the two teams, as we await the beginning of tonight's game:

• Dave Krynzel is batting .296 in 22 games as the leadoff hitter for the Baysox this season.

• Baysox second baseman Miguel Abreu has at least two hits in four of his past six games.

• The Baysox are fifth in the Eastern League with a 3.62 team ERA this season. They are also fourth in the league with a .268 team batting average.

• Harrisburg is second in the league with 40 home runs, but the Senators rank last in the league with 157 runs scored in 44 games. They have scored two runs or less 18 times so far this season.

• The Senators have lost by two runs or less on 16 different occasions in 2009. Harrisburg has held the lead in 27 of their 44 games this season, but they have only 13 wins.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 6:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Baysox communications manager Tom Sedlacek sent a news release last night informing everyone that the Golden Matt Wieters bobblehead was found, and it's a good time to pass that along to the O's on Deck readers since he is sitting next to me in the press box.

Crofton resident David Miller found the bobblehead between shelves at the Bowie branch of the Prince George's County Memorial Library System. Miller receives a prize pack focused around the new Orioles catcher, including a regular Wieters bobblehead, a T-shirt and an autographed baseball. He will also throw out the first pitch at an upcoming Baysox game at Prince George's Stadium.

The team expects to hold another scavenger hunt for Baysox fans in Anne Arundel County next month. For more information, check out the team's Web site.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 6:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Good evening from the press box at Prince George's Stadium in Bowie.

I'll be blogging live from tonight's game between the Double-A Bowie Baysox and Harrisburg Senators.

It will be a matchup of left-handers as Troy Patton is scheduled to make his ninth start of the season for the Baysox, while Justin Jones gets the ball for the Senators.

Patton is 5-1 with a 1.62 ERA, which is second in the Eastern League behind Akron Aeros starting pitcher Chuck Lofgren. Jones is 2-6 with a 5.05 ERA with Harrisburg.

As you'll notice in the lineup below, Washington Nationals outfielder Elijah Dukes is here on a rehabilitation assignment. In case you missed it, The Washington Post's Chico Harlan reported today that Dukes could face jail time if he doesn't pay $39,767 in outstanding legal fees.

Here are the starting lineups for tonight's game:

HARRISBURG (13-31)

Edgardo Baez RF
Michael Daniel LF
Elijah Dukes CF
Joel Guzman 3B
Matt Whitney 1B
Luke Montz DH
Ofilio Castro 2B
Jhonatan Solano C
Michael Martinez SS

Justin Jones LHP

BOWIE (23-22)

Dave Krynzel DH
Jonathan Tucker LF
Brandon Snyder 1B
Michael Costanzo 3B
Miguel Abreu 2B
Danny Figueroa CF
Adam Donachie C
Ambiorix Concepcion RF
Robert Valido SS

Troy Patton LHP

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 5:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

I don't have much time to post detailed game previews because there are plenty of errands that need to be completed on my day off. So, it's probably best to share the probable pitchers for the four full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system.

The good news, however, is that I'll be heading to Prince George's Stadium to provide live updates from the game between the Double-A Bowie Baysox and Harrisburg Senators. The matchup is scheduled to begin at 7:05 p.m., and I'll be there as soon as possible.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides play the Columbus Clippers, while the Single-A Frederick Keys take on the Salem Red Sox. The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds hit the road to face the Kannapolis Intimidators.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Columbus Clippers (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Waters (5-2, 4.53 ERA)
Columbus: Kirk Saarloos (3-5, 5.37 ERA)

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Harrisburg Senators (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Troy Patton (5-1, 1.62 ERA)
Harrisburg: Justin Jones (2-6, 5.05 ERA)

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Salem Red Sox (6:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Tim Bascom (3-4, 3.24 ERA)
Salem: Casey Kelly (6-1, 1.12 ERA with the Single-A Greenville Drive this season)

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Kannapolis Intimidators (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Oliver Drake (1-2, 2.82 ERA)
Hickory: Stephen Sauer (2-2, 2.53 ERA)

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides ran away with a win on the road over the Columbus Clippers, but the Double-A Bowie Baysox lost to the Harrisburg Senators at home.

The Single-A Frederick Keys fell to the Salem Red Sox, and the game between the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds and Hickory Crawdads was rained out.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 13, Columbus Clippers 2 (Box score)

Recap: Despite losing their starting catcher and several pitchers to the major leagues, the Tides continue to collect victories. Norfolk pounded Columbus for a 13-2 win on Friday.

With Matt Wieters, Jason Berken, Brad Bergesen and David Hernandez all playing for the Orioles, several other players stepped up to lead the Tides.

Norfolk starting pitcher David Pauley (4-4) allowed one run and five hits in six innings to earn the victory. The 25-year-old right-hander struck out three batters and issued two walks. Relief pitcher Fredy Deza, who was promoted from Bowie earlier in the day, gave up one run and four hits in three innings to pick up his first save of the season for the Tides.

Second baseman Justin Turner was 3-for-5 with a double and four RBIs for Norfolk, while right fielder Jeff Fiorentino collected three hits, two RBIs and four runs scored.

Tides third baseman Melvin Dorta was 4-for-5 with a double and two runs scored, and designated hitter Jolbert Cabrera was 3-for-5 with two doubles, an RBI and three runs scored. Center fielder Justin Christian and first baseman Oscar Salazar each added two hits for Norfolk.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Harrisburg Senators 8, Bowie Baysox 4 (Box score)

Recap: The Senators scored four runs in the final two innings to break open a tie game and knock off Bowie, 8-4, at Prince George's Stadium.

Relief pitcher Chad Thall (1-2) suffered the loss after giving up one run and three hits in two innings for the Baysox, and Josh Perrault surrendered three unearned runs in one inning.

Bowie center fielder Dave Krynzel collected three hits, one RBI and one run scored in the loss, while left fielder Jonathan Tucker and shortstop Robert Valido each added two hits.

Baysox pitcher Ryan Keefer, who was making another spot start, allowed four runs and six hits in two innings. Relief pitcher Pat Egan tossed four scoreless innings in his Double-A debut with Bowie.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Salem Red Sox 5, Frederick Keys 2 (Box score)

Recap: Salem scored four runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to beat the Keys, 5-2.

Frederick starting pitcher Nathan Nery (0-2) gave up four runs (three earned) and seven hits in six innings. The 23-year-old left-hander collected five strikeouts and walked one batter in the Keys' loss.

Keys right fielder Billy Rowell was 2-for-4 with a double, and designated hitter Robbie Widlansky collected two hits and an RBI. Shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. was 0-for-4 for the Keys, which ended his hitting streak at eight games.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

The game between the Shorebirds and Crawdads at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium was canceled due to thunderstorms in the area. Since Hickory doesn't return to Delmarva again in the first half of the season, the game will not be made up unless there are playoff implications.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Here is a look at recent media coverage of the catching prospect's upcoming promotion to the Orioles. If there is a link that I missed, e-mail me and I'll add it as soon as possible.

• ESPN's Jayson Stark makes an observation about Matt Wieters and the amount of time he spent behind the plate while playing for the Triple-A Norfolk Tides this season.

America's favorite catching prospect, Matt Wieters, arrives in Baltimore this weekend. But before you project him as your every-day fantasy catcher, here's something that might shock you:

"I think he'll hit enough that nobody will complain," one scout said. "But I just don't see him as a catcher. For a while, I thought maybe it was just me. So I asked around, and other guys said the same thing: Move him to first base."

• ESPN's Buster Olney discusses Wieters' promotion to the major leagues in a recent video.

• On Yahoo Sports' Big League Stew blog, Kevin Kaduk wonders if there has ever been as much hype for another position player in the history of professional baseball.

So wunderkind catcher Matt Wieters is finally on his way to Baltimore and his Friday arrival has some of the bloggerati breathlessly comparing him to O's backstop greats like Chris Hoiles and Mickey Tettleton. (Charming times for Charm City, indeed.)

Seriously, though, the Wieters' hype is the most I can ever remember for a rookie position player. Since I'm having a bit of trouble recalling other heralded arrivals, does anyone want to refresh my memory of other top prospects whose MLB debuts were greeted with everything just short of Sunday morning palm fronds? And remember I'm talking about position players here, since pitching prospects routinely get a lot of attention for their first starts.

• MASN's Steve Melewski talked to Orioles right-hander Jason Berken, Wieters' teammate in the minor leagues during the past two seasons, about the catcher's promotion to the majors.

Jason Berken, who picked up his first major league win here [Tuesday], pitched often to Wieters last year at Bowie and this season at Norfolk.

"He's the total package, he does everything well. All the hype is worthy. Until yesterday he's the best player I've ever played with. He did things last year I've never seen before. He was doing stuff in Double-A I couldn't believe. Everyone should be excited, he's an unbelievable player."

• Prior to Wieters becoming eligible for the list, The Washington Post's Dave Sheinin shares his thoughts about the best catchers in Orioles history.

When uber-prospect Matt Wieters makes his big league debut on Friday for the Baltimore Orioles, will he automatically rank as the best catcher in franchise history? OK, perhaps it's a bit hyperbolic -- in the vein of this Web site -- to even ask such a question.

It isn't easy coming up with five players to populate this list, but here goes...

• The Detroit News' Tom Gage alerts Detroit Tigers fans to the amount of media attention that will likely follow their team's trip to play the Orioles at Camden Yards this weekend.

Norfolk's catcher Matt Wieters went 4-for-4 with four RBIs against Toledo on Tuesday night.

Because it was Wieters -- and the buzz in Baltimore about Wieters catching his first major league game on Friday night is what the Tigers are heading toward next.

• David Driver of the Laurel Leader shares some insight from Tides radio announcer Bob Socci about Wieters' popularity with baseball fans.

I spoke to Socci today, and he had nothing but good things to say about Wieters, who was been besieged by autograph seekers throughout the International League. Socci said in Syracuse the team had to put up barriers next to the visiting clubhouse the day after fans lined up to greet Wieters -- with pens in hand.

“This was Syracuse, far from Oriole country,” said Socci, who estimated 50 or 60 fans came one day to try to get Wieters to sign for them. “I have never seen anything like it.”

• Baseball Prospectus' Joe Sheehan writes a humorous account of the effect that Orioles fans hope Wieters will have on the team's chances this season.

Capping the greatest story in baseball history... no, sports history... the Baltimore Orioles became World Champions last night, beating the Los Angeles Dodgers 11-1 to complete their sweep, and extend their winning streak to 129 games, a stretch that dates to May 25, four days before catcher Matt Wieters made his major league debut.

No, it was the rookie catcher from Georgia Tech who took the hardware, the same way he's taken everything else from the day he arrived in Baltimore. Joining a last-place team whose goals were long-term, he played the kind of baseball last seen depicted by Robert Redford, with a dash of Bugs Bunny. Wieters hit three home runs in his major league debut, the last a majestic shot off of the warehouse to break a 9-9 tie in the 11th inning, making him a legend before he'd taken his first MLB shower.

• Jason Grey of ESPN.com lists Wieters as his top short-term fantasy baseball prospect who is not already in the major leagues.

1. Matt Wieters, C, Orioles: Wieters will get his long-awaited call to the big leagues Friday after hitting .305 and slugging .504 at Triple-A. Start him immediately in all formats.

• Also, on ESPN.com's Fantasy Baseball Blog, Tristan H. Cockcroft says the initial projections for Wieters' production in 2009 might be a little low because the Orioles will bring him up earlier than most analysts expected.

Interestingly, our preseason estimates had the Orioles waiting until at least June 1, and probably closer to June 15, to promote Wieters. We weren't off by much, only a couple of weeks, but with Wieters set to debut May 29, he will be available to the Orioles for 114 of their 162 games (70.3 percent). Our preseason projections called for 300 at-bats, a .287 batting average, 13 home runs and 46 RBIs. Considering that a typical starting catcher generally gets about 75 percent of the playing time, and a typical team gets a bit short of 600 at-bats from its backstops, Wieters might stand a chance at 325-350 at-bats. In other words, our initial projection might be shortchanging him.

To the second point, Wieters has done nothing but rake throughout the minor leagues. He's batting .285 with five home runs, 26 RBIs and an .849 OPS in 38 games for Triple-A Norfolk this season, having improved those numbers with a .299 batting average and .919 OPS in 24 contests this month. Those numbers look suspiciously similar to our preseason projections, no? Meanwhile, for his minor league career, Wieters has batted .338 with a 1.005 OPS in 168 games, having obliterated the pitching in the Single-A Carolina League and Double-A Eastern League in 2008.

• On FanHouse.com, Matt Snyder offers some advice to fantasy owners on what to expect from Wieters for the rest of the 2009 season.

He's no secret. He's viewed by many as the best prospect in baseball and he's owned in most fantasy leagues (63 percent in Yahoo as of Wednesday morning). Let's take a look at what we can expect, though. He's going to play most everyday, otherwise the Orioles would be stunting his development. He's obviously not going to catch everyday, but I'm betting the O's use him at DH on days when he doesn't suit up in the tools of ignorance.

Expected Line: 100 games played, .280, 15 home runs, 60 RBI, 45 runs.

• Scott Pianowski pokes fun at the attention surrounding Wieters' call-up in a recent entry on Yahoo Sports' Roto Arcade blog.

In a stunning move, the Orioles are apparently "not" going to retire Matt Wieters's jersey before he plays in his first game Friday. That's a blog post of its own, but we can't ignore what the 30 MLB clubs do for the next two days, the end of the Before Wieters era. Let's have a look around the Wednesday sandlot action, bullet style.

Reaction from Orioles fans and bloggers

• If you haven't already checked it out, go to MattWietersFacts.com. The mock Hall of Fame plaque on the right-hand side of the page is quite humorous, and one of my favorite quotes is listed below.

Matt Wieters Is So Important That When He Gets Called Up, Peter Schmuck Will Stop Wearing Hawaiian Shirts And Wear Suits Instead.

• The message boards at OriolesHangout.com are full of discussion about Wieters, and "larrytt" takes a humorous approach to the top 10 problems with the catcher. The top issue on the list is below

1. He can't pitch. (Okay, he's probably our best pitcher, but he probably won't get the chance.)

• "joeb" on BirdsWatcher.com expresses his enthusiasm about the Orioles' decision to add Wieters to the major league roster beginning with Friday night's game against the Tigers.

Wow, this week is so exciting as an Orioles fan. So, yeah we all know about how the team was down by 5 in the middle of the game, then came back in the 8th and then blew it in the 11th, and then Nolan Reimold hit a 3-run shot to win it, and got pied in his post-game interview. Yeah, all of that’s fine and dandy. But some other things are much, much, much cooler happening this week. Here’s a list, ranked by how excited I am about each event.

1. MATT WIETERS HAS ARRIVED!!!!! Dos Equis should sign him up for their ad, scratch that old Mexican guy who gets all the attractive ladies.

• The Oriole Post hopes fans won't put too many expectations on the young catcher as soon as he is promoted to the major leagues.

I am all for Matt Wieters coming up to the majors, being anointed as the savior of the franchise, selling tickets and walking on water; however, for all my excitement -- will he make the team better? Not really -- at least now?

The timing of the announcement was a little odd in my mind, but hey, the team needs buzz, attendance is sagging and was only above ten thousand yesterday; however, as Andy MacPhail said, "it's about time".

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides continue their road trip by starting a series against the Columbus Clippers, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox return home to face the Harrisburg Senators at Prince George's Stadium.

The Single-A Frederick Keys play the Salem Red Sox, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds host the Hickory Crawdads.

Prior to today's games, relief pitcher Fredy Deza was promoted from the Baysox to Norfolk. No other moves were immediately announced.

According to the Keys, David Hernandez was the 100th player in the 21-year history of the franchise to play in the major leagues. Ben McDonald was the first player to earn that distinction. Matt Wieters will become No. 101 in tonight's game against the Detroit Tigers at Camden Yards.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Columbus Clippers (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Pauley (3-4, 4.23 ERA)
Toledo: Ken Ray (4-0, 3.00 ERA with Long Island Ducks in independent league)

Notes

* Pauley suffered the loss against the Rochester Red Wings in his last start on May 24. The 25-year-old right-hander allowed six runs (four earned) and eight hits in six innings during the Tides' 6-2 loss. Pauley struck out six batters and issued two walks, but he didn't allow any scoring after the first inning.

* The Tides (31-15) continue to lead the International League South Division by 1 1/2 games over the Durham Bulls (30-17). Both teams won last night. Columbus leads the West Division with a 25-23 record, and the Clippers are currently on a three-game winning streak.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Harrisburg Senators (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: TBA
Harrisburg: TBA

Notes

* It is Bobby Livingston's turn in the rotation for the Baysox, but he was promoted to Norfolk and started last night. Bowie hasn't named a replacement. Harrisburg's game against Erie was postponed on Thursday, so there starting pitcher is also unknown at this point.

* Bowie is 23-21 and in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division. The Baysox are 8 1/2 games behind the Akron Aeros in the division, while Harrisburg (12-31) is in last place. The Senators are 19 games behind Akron.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Salem Red Sox (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Nathan Nery (0-1, 3.91 ERA)
Salem: Kyle Weiland (1-5, 7.78 ERA)

Notes

* Overall, Nery has allowed 15 runs (10 earned) and 28 hits in 23 innings during four starts since being promoted from Delmarva in the beginning of this month. The 23-year-old left-hander gave up five runs (four earned) and seven hits in five innings against the Kinston Indians in his last start on May 23. Nery walked four batters and collected three strikeouts in the Keys' 10-5 loss.

* After last night's loss, the Keys (23-24) fell back below .500 this season. Frederick is in last place in the Carolina League Northern Division, trailing the first-place Lynchburg Hillcats (30-16) by 7 1/2 games. Salem (22-25) is in second place in the Southern Division. The Red Sox are 1/2 game behind the division-leading Winston-Salem Dash (22-24).

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Hickory Crawdads (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Oliver Drake (1-2, 2.82 ERA)
Hickory: Wilmer Font (2-0, 1.99 ERA)

Notes

* Drake tossed 5 2/3 scoreless innings against the Kannapolis Intimidators in his last start on May 24. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and issued one walk in the Shorebirds' 2-1 win. Drake's only victory so far this season was on April 19 against the Lake County Captains. He allowed one earned run and three hits in seven innings.

* The Shorebirds are in second place in the South Atlantic League with a 25-19 record. Delmarva trails the division-leading Lakewood BlueClaws (27-19) by one game, while Hickory (24-23) is in fourth place. The Crawdads are 3 1/2 games behind Lakewood.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides defeated the Toledo Mud Hens, but the Double-A Bowie Baysox lost to the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys fell to the Wilmington Blue Rocks, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds beat the Hickory Crawdads with a suicide squeeze.

Before today's games, there were several transactions in the Orioles' minor league system.

As I mentioned earlier, Bobby Livingston was promoted to the Tides from Bowie in order to make a start for the injured Chris Tillman. The Baysox later filled Livingston's spot by adding relief pitcher Pat Egan from Delmarva.

The Shorebirds added two players from extended spring training to their roster -- outfielder Brian Conley and pitcher Shane Mathews.

Finally, the Orioles claimed left-hander David Davidson from the Florida Marlins and assigned him to Norfolk. The 25-year-old relief pitcher was designated for assignment by the Marlins on May 22.

This is actually the second time Davidson has been claimed this season. The Pittsburgh Pirates designated him for assignment on April 15, and the Marlins added him to their roster.

Davidson appeared in one game for the Marlins, and he gave up five runs and four hits in one inning against the Tampa Bay Rays on the day he was designated for assignment. He was 0-1 with a 3.00 ERA in 13 games while splitting time between the Indianapolis Indians and New Orleans Zephyrs at the Triple-A level.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 7, Toledo Mud Hens 6, 10 innings (Box score)

Recap: Designated hitter Jolbert Cabrera collected three hits, including a go-ahead RBI single in the top of the 10th inning, and the Tides pulled out a 7-6 victory over Toledo.

Norfolk first baseman Oscar Salazar returned to the lineup after missing three games due to a wrist injury. The 30-year-old utility player was 2-for-5 with a home run and three RBIs.

Tides left fielder Justin Christian was 2-for-5 with a triple and an RBI, while catcher Robby Hammock added two hits.

After being recalled from Bowie, Livingston gave up four runs and 10 hits in six innings. The Tides were leading, 5-4, when the 26-year-old left-hander exited the game, but the bullpen was unable to preserve the advantage.

Norfolk relief pitcher Jim Miller (2-1) suffered a blown save after allowing two runs and four hits in one inning. The 27-year-old right-hander picked up the win, however, when the Tides scored in the 10th. Ross Wolf picked up his first save of the season after tossing a scoreless inning for Norfolk.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Altoona Curve 3, Bowie Baysox 1 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Jake Arrieta (4-3) allowed two runs and six hits in six innings, and the Baysox suffered a 3-1 loss to Altoona. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and issued three walks.

Bowie left fielder Jonathan Tucker and second baseman Miguel Abreu were each 2-for-4. Tucker collected a double, while Abreu scored the only run for the Baysox. Center fielder Dave Krynzel also hit a double for Bowie.

Relief pitcher Ryan Ouellette gave up one run and three hits in one inning for the Baysox, and Wilfrido Perez struck out two of the three batters he faced.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Wilmington Blue Rocks 4, Frederick Keys 2 (Box score)

Recap: Zach Britton turned in a quality start for the Keys, but they suffered a 4-2 loss to Wilmington. The 21-year-old left-hander gave up two runs (one earned) and four hits in seven innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. He struck out five batters and issued four walks.

Once again, Frederick catcher Caleb Joseph led the team offensively. He was 2-for-4 with an RBI in the loss, and third baseman Tyler Henson added a double and an RBI.

Relief pitcher Brett Bordes (2-3) suffered the loss after allowing two runs and two hits in one inning for the Keys.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 3, Hickory Crawdads 2, 10 innings (Box score)

Recap: After scoring two runs in the first inning against Shorebirds starting pitcher Ryan O'Shea, the Crawdads were unable to cross the plate for the rest of the game in Delmarva's 3-2 victory in 10 innings.

O'Shea allowed two runs -- both on solo home runs -- and seven hits in seven innings for Delmarva. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out seven batters and didn't walk anyone.

The Shorebirds scored the game-winning run on a suicide squeeze by catcher Luis Bernardo.

Shorebirds third baseman Tyler Kolodny was 3-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored, and center fielder Xavier Avery added two hits.

Delmarva relief pitcher Brandon Cooney (2-2) earned the win after retiring all three batters he faced in the top of the 10th.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides will face the Toledo Mud Hens tonight, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox lost to the Altoona Curve earlier today.

The Single-A Frederick Keys take on the Wilmington Blue Rocks, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds host the Hickory Crawdads.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Toledo Mud Hens (6:30 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Bobby Livingston (5-1, 3.80 ERA with the Double-A Bowie Baysox)
Toledo: Ruddy Lugo (3-4, 3.64 ERA)

Notes

* It's Chris Tillman's turn in the rotation for Norfolk, but he will be skipped because of the groin injury suffered in his last start. Left-hander Bobby Livingston will be promoted from Bowie to replace him, according to the Tides. Tillman is still listed as day-to-day, so I'll pass along any additional updates as I get them.

* Also, for those who asked about Oscar Salazar, the Tides say he will be back within the next few days. He suffered a hand injury in a collision at first base during Sunday's game against the Rochester Red Wings. Salazar hasn't played since leaving that game in the ninth inning.

* The Tides (30-15) continue to hold the best record in the International League, and they lead the Durham Bulls (29-17) by 1 1/2 games in the South Division. Toledo snapped a 10-game losing streak yesterday against Norfolk, and the Mud Hens are in last place in the West Division with an 18-28 record. They trail the first-place Columbus Clippers (24-23) by 5 1/2 games.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

The Baysox suffered a 3-1 loss to Altoona earlier today. Bowie starting pitcher Jake Arrieta suffered the loss after giving up two runs and six hits in six innings. Designated hitter Danny Figueroa collected the only RBI for the Baysox.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Wilmington Blue Rocks (6:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Zachary Britton (2-1, 2.66 ERA)
Wilmington: Mario Santiago (1-5, 5.40 ERA)

Notes

* With so many other talented pitching prospects in the Orioles' minor league system, Britton continues to fly under the radar. The 21-year-old left-hander is 2-0 with a 3.00 ERA in 21 innings during four games (three starts) in May. Britton gave up three runs and five hits in five innings in his last appearance on May 22 against the Kinston Indians. It was actually the completion of the suspended game between the two teams from May 17, so Britton wasn't credited with a start.

* With last night's win, the Keys returned to the .500 mark with a 23-23 record. They are still in last place in the Carolina League Northern Division, trailing the first-place Lynchburg Hillcats (29-16) by 6 1/2 games. Wilmington (23-22) is six games behind Lynchburg and in third place in the division.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Hickory Crawdads (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Ryan O'Shea (3-2, 3.68 ERA)
Hickory: Yoon-Hee Nam (4-1, 0.95 ERA)

Notes

* O'Shea earned the victory against the Kannapolis Intimidators in his last start on May 23. The right-hander, who will turn 23 tomorrow, gave up one run and three hits in seven innings during the Shorebirds' 6-2 win. He struck out five batters and issued three walks. In four starts this month, O'Shea is 2-1 with a 2.66 ERA in 23 2/3 innings.

* Following yesterday's loss, the Shorebirds are in second place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division with a 24-19 record. They trail the first-place Lakewood BlueClaws (26-19) by one game, while fourth-place Hickory (24-22) is 2 1/2 games behind the division leaders.

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

While Matt Wieters is making his major league debut with the Orioles this weekend, the Double-A Bowie Baysox will be running a series of promotions for fans.

On Friday night, the Baysox will attempt to set the world record for most people wearing sunglasses at night. All fans who participate in the event must register in order for the record to be considered official, and the first 1,000 fans to sign up will receive a free pair of sunglasses. The game against the Harrisburg Senators is scheduled to begin at 7:05 p.m. at Prince George's Stadium.

OK, you know I am going to take this opportunity to link to Corey Hart's hit from the 1980s, so here is the link to the YouTube video. I would just embed the player into this entry, but we need to keep some sense of order with O's on Deck.

When the Baysox host the Senators on Saturday, the members of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League will be honored. The women will take part in an on-field ceremony before the game starts at 7:05 p.m. They will toss out ceremonial first pitches and meet with fans for autographs and photos following the national anthem.

The six former players who will attend the festivities are Sarah Jane "Salty" (Sands) Ferguson, Ruth "Rocky" (Kramer) Hartman, Gloria (Cordes) Elliott, Joanne McComb, Gertrude (Alderfer) Benner, Joyce Steele and Ruth "Richy" Richard.

Phillip Wrigley founded the AAGPBL in 1943, and the league was composed of 11 teams around the country before it was disbanded in 1954. It was featured in A League of Their Own with Tom Hanks, Rosie O'Donnell, Geena Davis and Madonna.

The Baysox will wrap up the weekend with a chance to meet the players and coaches on Sunday before the game against Harrisburg.

The matchup is set to start at 2:05 p.m., and Baysox players and coaches will be signing autographs on the concourse level at the ballpark from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m.

Pitching coach Larry McCall and the starting pitcher and catcher will not be available because they will be preparing for the game.

For more information on any of this weekend's promotions, check out Bowie's Web site.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost to the Toledo Mud Hens, but the Double-A Bowie Baysox scored seven unanswered runs to beat the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys defeated the Wilmington Blue Rocks, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds lost to the Hickory Crawdads.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Toledo Mud Hens 8, Norfolk Tides 6 (Box score)

Recap: The Tides are learning to live without catcher Matt Wieters, and they got off to a rough start with an 8-6 loss to Toledo.

Despite collecting 14 hits in the game, Norfolk was unable to hold down the Mud Hens, who had 16 hits and snapped a 10-game losing streak.

Tides outfielder Jeff Fiorentino led the team with a home run and three RBIs. Second baseman Justin Turner was 4-for-5 with an RBI and two runs scored for Norfolk, and shortstop Carlos Rojas added three hits and an RBI.

Norfolk starting pitcher Radhames Liz gave up two unearned runs and seven hits in 3 2/3 innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 25-year-old right-hander struck out six batters in the Tides' loss.

Relief pitcher Kam Mickolio (1-3) suffered the loss after allowing one run and three hits in 1 1/3 innings for Norfolk, and left-hander Alberto Castillo gave up five runs (four earned) and five hits in two-thirds of an inning.

Tides utility player Brandon Pinckney pitched a scoreless eighth inning. He collected one strikeout and allowed one hit. Offensively, Pinckney picked up two hits and an RBI for Norfolk.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 7, Altoona Curve 3 (Box score)

Recap: Trailing 3-0 in the seventh inning, the Baysox scored the game's final seven runs to beat Altoona, 7-3. Bowie scored once in the seventh, two times in the eighth and tacked on four more runs in the top of the ninth.

Center fielder Danny Figueroa led the Baysox with four hits, including two doubles. Bowie right fielder Joe Nowicki hit a three-run home run in the ninth, and third baseman Mike Costanzo added three hits and two RBIs.

Baysox designated hitter Dave Krynzel was 3-for-5, while first baseman Brandon Snyder was 1-for-2 with two walks and a run scored.

Starting pitcher John Mariotti allowed three unearned runs and four hits in six innings for Bowie. The 24-year-old right-hander walked four batters and collected one strikeout. Baysox relief pitcher Ryan Rodriguez (1-2) earned the victory after tossing three no-hit innings.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 4, Wilmington Blue Rocks 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Pedro Beato (3-3) allowed one run and six hits in 6 1/3 innings, and the Keys edged Wilmington, 4-2. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out two batters and issued one walk.

Frederick center fielder Matt Angle was 3-for-5 with two triples and an RBI, while right fielder Billy Rowell was 2-for-4 with a run scored.

Designated hitter Caleb Joseph, who pinch-hit for Wally Crancer in the seventh inning, was 2-for-2 with an RBI and a run scored for the Keys, and catcher Billy Killian added two hits, an RBI and a run scored.

Keys closer Luis Lebron struck out the side in the ninth inning to earn his ninth save of the season.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Hickory Crawdads 9, Delmarva Shorebirds 6 (Box score)

Recap: The Shorebirds scored six of the final seven runs in the game, but an early deficit caused them to fall to Hickory, 9-6, at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

Delmarva starting pitcher Cole McCurry (3-3) allowed six runs and six hits in two innings. Relief pitcher Colin Allen gave up two runs and seven hits in five innings for the Shorebirds, and Brent Allar surrenedered one run and two hits in two innings.

Shorstop Greg Miclat had another big game for Delmarva. The was 3-for-5 with a double, two RBIs and a run scored. It was the second three-hit outing for the 21-year-old infielder in his past five games.

Shorebirds first baseman Joe Mahoney was 3-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored, and left fielder Kyle Hudson added two hits and two RBIs. Center fielder Xavier Avery was 2-for-5 with a triple, an RBI and a run scored for Delmarva.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game recaps
        

As expected, Triple-A Norfolk Tides starting pitcher David Hernandez was scratched from this morning's game on the road against the Toledo Mud Hens.

A source confirmed to The Baltimore Sun's Dan Connolly on Tuesday that Hernandez is scheduled to start for the Orioles on Thursday night at Camden Yards against the Detroit Tigers.

Since he was pulled from his start for the Tides this morning, it only makes sense that Hernandez is on his way to Baltimore to pitch for the Orioles. I'm sure the move will be made official before Thursday's game, similar to the way the team waited to promote Jason Berken until the last minute.

Hernandez was 3-1 with a 2.91 ERA in eight starts for Norfolk. The 24-year-old right-hander collected 60 strikeouts and walked 13 batters in 43 1/3 innings. He struck out 14 hitters against the Rochester Red Wings on May 22 in his last start.

With Berken, Hernandez and Bergesen in the starting rotation, and catcher Matt Wieters on his way to the big leagues, the Orioles' youth movement is alive. This is the time that Orioles fans have been imagining for the past several years, so we'll soon see if it was worth the wait.

Radhames Liz will start for Norfolk in place of Hernandez. It remains to be seen if Liz will remain in Hernandez's spot in the rotation with the Tides or if it is a temporary move.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (9)
        

I apologize in advance to the fans who are checking out today's game previews for the four full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system.

Unfortunately, there isn't much time to post extended notes because all four teams play before noon.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides face the Toledo Mud Hens, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox take on the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys continue their series against the Wilmington Blue Rocks, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds host the Hickory Crawdads.

Take note of Norfolk's starting pitcher. If he is scratched, it's pretty much assumed who will be starting for the Orioles on Thursday night. We should know by 10:30 a.m. at the latest.

According to The Baltimore Sun's Dan Connolly, a baseball source confirmed that it will be David Hernandez who will start for the Orioles against the Tigers on Thursday.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Toledo Mud Hens (10:30 a.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Hernandez (3-1, 3.50 ERA)
Toledo: Chris Lambert (1-5, 6.29 ERA)

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Altoona Curve (10:35 a.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: John Mariotti (0-2, 6.46 ERA)
Altoona: Brad Lincoln (1-3, 2.31 ERA)

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Wilmington Blue Rocks (11 a.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Pedro Beato (2-3, 4.54 ERA)
Wilmington: Eduardo Paulino (1-1, 6.75 ERA)

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Hickory Crawdads (10:35 a.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (3-2, 1.62 ERA)
Hickory: Yoon Hee Nam (4-1, 0.95 ERA)

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

In case you missed the MASN telecast of tonight's game between the Orioles and Toronto Blue Jays at Camden Yards, there was a piece of news shared that fans have been anticipating since the beginning of the season.

Orioles president of baseball operations Andy MacPhail told fans watching the game that top prospect Matt Wieters will be called up to the major leagues for Friday's game against the Detroit Tigers.

It's funny. I actually wasn't watching the game when MacPhail made the announcement, but I'm almost certain that I heard a loud yell from throughout the city at that exact moment. Maybe it was just thunder, but I think it was thousands of Orioles fans rejoicing at the news.

Speaking of Wieters, he led the Triple-A Norfolk Tides to a win on the road against the Toledo Mud Hens. The Double-A Bowie Baysox and Altoona Curve were rained out.

The Single-A Frederick Keys lost a heartbreaker to the Wilmington Blue Rocks, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds won in extra innings.

Also, before tonight's game, the Shorebirds placed outfielder Jacob Julius on the disabled list, retroactive to May 24, with a wrist injury. No corresponding move was immediately announced.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 9, Toledo Mud Hens 5 (Box score)

Recap: It seems like Wieters is taking the upcoming promotion with a sense of determination.

The 23-year-old catcher was 4-for-4 with a double, four RBIs and a run scored in the Tides' 9-5 victory over Toledo. With the big night, Wieters is now batting .305 with five home runs and 30 RBIs in 39 games.

Norfolk second baseman Brandon Pinckney was 2-for-5 with a solo home run, and left fielder Jeff Fiorentino was 2-for-4 with a triple, two RBIs and two runs scored.

Designated hitter Justin Turner collected three hits and three runs scored for the Tides, and right fielder Robby Hammock added two hits and an RBI.

Tides pitcher Andy Mitchell earned the start in place of Jason Berken. Mitchell gave up four runs (three earned) and four hits in four innings. The 30-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and issued two walks.

Relief pitcher Ross Wolf (2-1) collected five strikeouts in two perfect innings to earn the victory for Norfolk.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Due to inclement weather, the game between the Baysox and Curve was postponed. The two teams will play a doubleheader on Saturday, June 27 at 5:05 p.m. Tonight's starting pitchers -- Bowie's John Mariotti and Altoona's Brad Lincoln -- will start tomorrow at 10:35 a.m.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Wilmington Blue Rocks 1, Frederick Keys 0 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Brian Matusz turned in another strong outing for the Keys, but they dropped a 1-0 decision against Wilmington. The 22-year-old left-hander collected five strikeouts and allowed four hits in seven scoreless innings. He also issued two walks.

Frederick relief pitcher Jake Stevens (2-1) suffered the loss after giving up one unearned run and two hits in one inning. A fielding error by Keys left fielder Kraig Binick and an RBI double by Blue Rocks third baseman Mike Moustakas led to the only run of the game.

Designated hitter Bobby Stevens led the team with two hits, including a double, but that was the extent of the Keys' offense.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 2, Hickory Crawdads 1, 11 innings (Box score)

Recap: Infielder Jedidiah Stephen was 2-for-5 with two RBIs, including a game-winning single in the 11th inning to lead the Shorebirds to a 2-1 victory.

Delmarva starting pitcher Rick Zagone allowed four hits in seven scoreless innings. The 22-year-old left-hander collected six strikeouts and walked two batters. He lowered his ERA to 1.92 after the outing.

Shorebirds relief pitcher Pat Egan suffered a blown save after giving up one run and two hits in one inning, while Eddie Gamboa (4-0) earned the win after pitching three scoreless innings.

Orioles designated hitter Luke Scott was 1-for-2 with a walk in the final game of his rehabilitation assignment with Delmarva.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides continue their series on the road against the Toledo Mud Hens, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox travel to play the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys will face the Wilmington Blue Rocks, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds host the Hickory Crawdads at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

If you're looking to kill some time, check out this nice video interview with Baysox starting pitcher Jake Arrieta on RightOffRussell.com, a blog about the sports teams in the Baltimore area.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Toledo Mud Hens (6:30 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: TBA
Toledo: Jeremy Bonderman (0-1, 7.50 ERA)

Notes

* Jason Berken is scheduled to pitch for the Tides, but he will most likely be starting for the Orioles at Camden Yards -- unless the game is rained out. Therefore, Norfolk will need to announce another starter for tonight's game, which hasn't happened yet.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Altoona Curve (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: John Mariotti (0-2, 6.46 ERA)
Altoona: Brad Lincoln (1-3, 2.31 ERA)

Notes

* In his last start, Mariotti suffered the loss against the Curve on May 21. The 24-year-old right-hander only allowed two runs and five hits in six innings, but Lincoln tossed a two-hit shutout for Altoona in the 2-0 win over the Baysox. Mariotti struck out four batters and issued four walks in the game.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Wilmington Blue Rocks (6:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Brian Matusz (3-2, 3.09 ERA)
Wilmington: Danny Duffy (5-1, 3.43 ERA)

Notes

* Matusz continues to lead the Carolina League with 60 strikeouts in eight starts this season. In fact, five of the next six pitchers on the list -- all except teammate Zach Britton -- have already in nine games so far in 2009. Matusz allowed three runs and four hits in seven innings during his last start on May 20 against the Lynchburg Hillcats. The 22-year-old left-hander collected nine strikeouts and walked one batter in the Keys' 9-5 win.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Hickory Crawdads (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Rick Zagone (4-3, 2.22 ERA)
Hickory: Carlos Pimentel (2-2, 3.32 ERA)

Notes

* Zagone struck out 10 batters in six scoreless innings against the Crawdads in his last start on May 21. The 22-year-old left-hander allowed two hits and walked three batters in the Shorebirds' 1-0 victory. Zagone leads Delmarva with 46 strikeouts in 44 2/3 innings this season.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

As everyone knows, the worst-kept secret in Baltimore over the past couple days is expected to be made official sometime today.

Jason Berken, who is listed by Baseball America as the 11th-best pitcher in the Orioles' minor league system, will be promoted to start tonight against the Toronto Blue Jays at Camden Yards.

If you haven't read the article already, The Baltimore Sun's Dan Connolly talked to Orioles starting pitcher Brad Bergesen, one of Berken's former teammates in the minor leagues, about the relatively unknown prospect.

The Orioles selected Berken in the sixth round of the 2006 MLB draft from Clemson. The 25-year-old right-hander was 1-1 with a 5.63 ERA in two starts for the Double-A Bowie Baysox before being promoted to the Triple-A Norfolk Tides to replace Bergesen, who was called up to the major leagues.

It was in Norfolk that Berken continued his dominance from last season, when he was 12-4 with a 3.58 ERA in 26 games (25 starts) for the Baysox. He finished fourth in the Eastern League in 2008 with 125 strikeouts and fifth in the league in wins. In five starts for the Tides in 2009, Berken is 2-0 with a 1.05 ERA.

Berken was 1-4 with a 2.80 ERA in nine games (eight starts) during his professional debut with the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds in 2006. He struck out 46 batters and issued only five walks in 45 innings for the IronBirds. Berken was 9-9 with a 4.53 ERA in 27 games (26 starts) for the Single-A Frederick Keys in 2007.

When I spoke with Berken earlier in the season, the 6-foot, 175-pound pitcher expressed no disappointment that the Orioles assigned him to Bowie for the second straight year.

“What I can control is to have another good year, put up good numbers again,” Berken told me at the time. “[I can] just continue to work hard, regardless of where I am.”

And that's exactly what he has done in 2009. Now he'll get a chance to prove he belongs in the major leagues when he replaces Adam Eaton in the starting rotation.

I think Berken will eventually stick with the Orioles, but it will likely be in a bullpen role. For now, he provides a good alternative until the younger pitchers -- Chris Tillman, Troy Patton, David Hernandez and others -- make their way to Camden Yards.

Berken needs to stay under control in his first start. With seven consecutive losses, the Blue Jays' offense has played poorly in recent games. It will be up to the rookie to take advantage of their struggles and work ahead in the count.

Here is my prediction for Berken's debut: 6 innings, 2 runs, 7 hits, 1 walk, 5 strikeouts.

For a measuring stick before making your guesses about Berken's statistics, Bergesen allowed three runs (one earned) and four hits in 5 2/3 innings during his first major league start against the Chicago White Sox on April 21. He collected four strikeouts and walked two batters in the Orioles' 10-3 win.

What are your expectations for Berken in his major league debut? Do you think he'll remain in the rotation for the rest of the season, or will he struggle to adapt to the major leagues?

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 5:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (15)
        

It was a clean sweep of victories for the three full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides beat the Toledo Mud Hens on the road, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox topped the Harrisburg Senators. The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds used some help from an Orioles veteran to beat the Kannapolis Intimidators.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 5, Toledo Mud Hens 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Chris Waters (5-2) gave up two runs and five hits in six innings, and the Tides cruised to a 5-2 win over Toledo.

The 28-year-old left-hander walked five batters and collected three strikeouts in the game. He threw 99 pitches (59 strikes), so you can probably count Waters out of Thursday's start for the Orioles if Koji Uehara is unable to pitch.

Five different players -- Jolbert Cabrera, Justin Christian, Brandon Pinckney, Steve Torrealba and Justin Turner -- each contributed one RBI for the Tides.

Torrealba led Norfolk with two hits, and center fielder Joey Gathright added a double and two runs scored. Tides catcher Matt Wieters was 1-for-3 with two walks. Pinckney was added to Norfolk's roster earlier in the day from the Baysox.

Tides closer Jim Miller allowed three hits in the ninth inning, but the Mud Hens failed to score a run and he picked up his 11th save of the season. The 27-year-old right-hander is 1-1 with a 0.98 ERA in 18 appearances in 2009.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 3, Harrisburg Senators 2 (Box score)

Recap: Designated hitter Joe Nowicki hit a two-run home run in the second inning, and the Baysox held on for a 3-2 victory over Harrisburg.

Bowie starting pitcher Sean Gleason (2-3) allowed two runs and eight hits in five innings. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and issued one walk.

Baysox left fielder Jonathan Tucker led the team with three hits and a run scored. Second baseman Miguel Abreu collected two doubles for Bowie, and third baseman Mike Costanzo added an RBI.

Bowie's bullpen continues to excel, as Wilfrido Perez and Josh Perrault combined to seal the win. Perez pitched a scoreless inning before Perrault recorded the final three outs for his fifth save of the season.

Perrault hasn't allowed a run since May 9, and the two pitchers have only allowed opponents to score seven runs in 40 1/3 innings in 2009.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 4, Kannapolis Intimidators 3 (Box score)

Recap: Orioles designated hitter Luke Scott, who served as the left fielder in tonight's game as part of his rehabilitation assignment, was 2-for-2 with a solo home run in Delmarva's 4-3 win over Kannapolis.

The 30-year-old outfielder hit the homer inside the foul pole in left field against Intimidators starting pitcher Charlie Leesman during the first inning. Scott walked in his second at-bat and hit a single before being removed for a pinch runner in the sixth inning.

Shorebirds third baseman Tyler Kolodny, shortstop Greg Miclat and catcher Luis Bernardo each added an RBI.

Delmarva starting pitcher Nathan Moreau gave up one run and one hit in 4 2/3 innings. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out five batters and issued five walks, but he didn't factor in the decision.

Relief pitcher Raul Rivero (4-0) tossed 2 1/3 scoreless innings to collect the win for the Shorebirds, and closer Brandon Cooney recorded the final two outs for this seventh save of the season.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Game recaps
        

I hope everyone is enjoying Memorial Day, whatever it is that you are doing today.

Don't forget the true meaning of the holiday while you're taking part in the cookout or getting a tan at the beach. Remember to thank the military personnel around you for their contributions to our country.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides hit the road to play the Toledo Mud Hens, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox wrap up their series against the Harrisburg Senators.

The Single-A Frederick Keys are idle, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds play the Kannapolis Intimidators.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Toledo Mud Hens (5 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Waters (4-2, 4.74 ERA)
Toledo: Eddie Bonine (0-1, 1.97 ERA)

Notes

* It's going to be interesting if Waters makes tonight's start for the Tides. It's also going to be interesting to see how long he pitches. Waters is likely to pitch, which means that Jason Berken probably will be called up to start tomorrow's game for the Orioles against the Toronto Blue Jays at Camden Yards. Waters could make the jump to the major leagues if his outing is cut short tonight and the Orioles need a replacement for Koji Uehara on Thursday, which seems like a good possibility. Waters is 2-0 with a 1.80 ERA in 20 innings during his past three starts for the Tides.

* After yesterday's loss to the Rochester Red Wings, the Tides fell to 28-14 this season. Norfolk still leads the International League South Division by 1 1/2 games over the Durham Bulls (27-16). Toledo (17-26) is in last place in the West Division, trailing the first-place Columbus Clippers (22-22) by 4 1/2 games.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Harrisburg Senators (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Sean Gleason (1-3, 7.67 ERA)
Harrisburg: Erik Arnesen (2-0, 2.08 ERA)

Notes

* Gleason allowed six runs (five earned) and seven hits in five innings against the Altoona Curve in his last start on May 20, but the Baysox rallied for an 8-7 victory. The 23-year-old right-hander has given up at least four earned runs in five of his six starts since being promoted to Bowie in the middle of April. Opponents are batting .349 against Gleason in 29 1/3 innings at the Double-A level.

* The Baysox won 10 out of their past 14 games, allowing them to climb back above .500 (21-20) this season. Bowie, however, remains in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division. The Baysox are nine games behind the first-place Akron Aeros (30-11), while Harrisburg (11-29) is in last place in the division.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Kannapolis Intimidators (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Nathan Moreau (0-1, 8.68 ERA)
Kannapolis: Charles Leesman (4-2, 2.79 ERA)

Notes

* In three starts so far in 2009, Moreau has struggled for the Shorebirds. The 22-year-old left-hander gave up seven runs (six earned) and seven hits in 2 1/3 innings against the West Virginia Power on May 14, but he didn't pitch as bad against the Hickory Crawdads in his last start on May 20. Moreau allowed two runs and six hits in four innings, and he collected seven strikeouts in Delmarva's 6-2 win.

* Luke Scott will play in left field tonight and bat third in the lineup for the Shorebirds as part of his minor league rehabilitation assignment. Scott is expected to serve as the designated hitter in tomorrow's game at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

* With five consecutive victories, the Shorebirds are within one game of first place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. Delmarva (22-18) is in third place, while the Lakewood BlueClaws (24-18) lead the division, and the Greensboro Grasshoppers (24-19) are in second. Kannapolis (20-23) is in sixth place in the division, trailing Lakewood by 4 1/2 games.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost to the Rochester Red Wings, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox defeated the Harrisburg Senators.

The Single-A Frederick Keys rallied to beat the Kinston Indians, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds used a last-inning comeback to top the Kannapolis Intimidators.

The Shorebirds announced today that Orioles outfielder Luke Scott will take part in a rehabilitation assignment in Delmarva on Monday and Tuesday.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Rochester Red Wings 6, Norfolk Tides 2 (Box score)

Recap: My first trip to Harbor Park to see the Tides play was definitely a memorable one.

I watched the game from different vantage points around the stadium with Baysox communications manager Tom Sedlacek, Mike Miller of Orioles Hangout and Jake Linger of The Bowie Blade-News.

It's good news that the Tides won the game for the final eight innings, outscoring Rochester, 2-0, during that span. The bad news, however, is that Norfolk allowed six runs in the first inning.

Despite the rough start, Tides starting pitcher David Pauley (3-4) settled down and retired 16 of the final 18 batters he faced. The 25-year-old right-hander gave up six runs (four earned) and eight hits in six innings. Pauley struck out six batters and threw 91 pitches (62 strikes) in the loss.

The Tides had a chance to climb back into the game during the fourth inning, but they couldn't capitalize on the opportunity.

The first three batters -- Justin Christian, Matt Wieters and Oscar Salazar -- all hit singles to load the bases with no outs. Norfolk, however, stranded all three base runners and didn't score in the inning.

Christian made two great defensive plays in the top of the third inning for the Tides, and shortstop Carlos Rojas was 2-for-4 in the game.

Unfortunately, two players left early for the Tides when they were injured.

Norfolk third baseman Melvin Dorta was hit in the upper body by a hard ground ball in the top of the first inning, and he left the game in the second. Salazar was removed in the top of the ninth inning after he collided with Rochester's Alexi Casilla on a play at first base.

No word on their conditions, but I'll pass along any updates.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 7, Harrisburg Senators 3 (Box score)

Recap: Another game, another home run for Baysox first baseman Brandon Snyder.

The 22-year-old infielder hit his fifth home run in the past 10 games -- a solo shot against Harrisburg starting pitcher Justin Jones in the first inning -- and Bowie cruised to a 7-3 victory over the Senators.

Starting pitcher Troy Patton (5-1) gave up three runs and seven hits in five innings for the Baysox. It was enough for the 23-year-old left-hander to collect his fifth victory of the season, even though it was the most runs he allowed in a single start so far in 2009.

Baysox right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion collected two doubles and two RBIs. The 27-year-old outfielder is currently on a six-game hitting streak. Center fielder Danny Figueroa, shortstop Robert Valido and second baseman Miguel Abreu each added two hits for Bowie.

Snyder is leading the Eastern League in RBIs (37), and he is in second place in batting average (.354) and home runs (nine).

If either Salazar or Dorta is expected to miss significant action for the Tides, the rumors will inevitably start about Snyder moving up to Triple-A. I'm not sure what the Orioles' plans are for the young prospect, but he's definitely proving that he can handle the competition at this level.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 7, Kinston Indians 5 (Box score)

Recap: Designated hitter Caleb Joseph was 2-for-4 with three RBIs, and the Keys came back to defeat Kinston, 7-5, at Harry Grove Stadium.

Frederick right fielder Kraig Binick was 2-for-3 with a double, two RBIs and a run scored, while catcher Billy Killian and second baseman Bobby Stevens each had two hits.

Relief pitcher Brian Parker (3-0) allowed Kinston to take the lead, but he was credited with the victory after the Keys jumped back in front in the bottom of the seventh inning. The 23-year-old right-hander gave up two runs and three hits in two innings.

Keys starting pitcher Tim Bascom allowed three runs and six hits in six innings. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out seven batters and issued two walks. Luis Lebron retired all three batters he faced to pick up his eighth save of the season for Frederick.

Shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. was 1-for-3 with an RBI double and two runs scored for the Keys.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 2, Kannapolis Intimidators 1 (Box score)

Recap: The Shorebirds defeated Kannapolis in dramatic fashion by scoring two runs in the bottom of the ninth inning to collect a 2-1 victory at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

With two outs in the ninth, Delmarva right fielder Ronnie Welty hit a single and first baseman Joe Mahoney walked to set the stage for the winning rally.

Designated hitter Elvin Polanco then hit a single to center field. Welty easily scored from second base. Mahoney came around from first base and collided with Kannapolis catcher Zach Larson, jarring the ball loose and scoring the game-winning run.

Shorebirds relief pitcher Brandon Cooney (1-2) tossed one scoreless inning to earn his first victory of the season. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out one batter and allowed one hit.

Starting pitcher Oliver Drake gave up four hits in 5 2/3 scoreless innings for Delmarva. The 22-year-old right-hander collected four strikeouts and walked one hitter.

Shorebirds center fielder Xavier Avery had two hits in the game, raising his batting average to .285 in 40 games this season.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game recaps
        

I'm currently on a bus trip to watch the Triple-A Norfolk Tides play against the Rochester Red Wings at Harbor Park.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox are sponsoring the event, which will allow fans to catch up with some of the team's former players who are now with the Tides.

I hope to provide live updates from the game, but we'll see how everything goes. I'm not sure how things will be set up in Norfolk. At the very least, you'll receive a first-hand account of how the Tides play as soon as I can later post later tonight.

The Baysox are in action on the road against the Harrisburg Senators, while the Single-A Frederick Keys host the Kinston Indians. The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds look for their fifth consecutive victory against the Kannapolis Intimidators.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Rochester Red Wings (1:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Pauley (3-3, 3.96 ERA)
Rochester: Brian Duensing (2-3, 5.10 ERA)

Notes

* Pauley earned a win against the Louisville Bats in his last start on May 18 after pitching six scoreless innings. The 25-year-old right-hander gave up four hits and collected seven strikeouts in the Tides' 2-0 victory in the second game of a doubleheader. Pauley has allowed three runs or less in six of his seven starts this season.

* Norfolk continues to lead the International League South Division with a 28-13 record. The Tides have won 10 of their past 11 games, and they lead the Durham Bulls (26-16) by 2 1/2 games in the division. Rochester (20-20) is in third place in the North Division, trailing the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (28-14) by seven games.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Harrisburg Senators (2 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Troy Patton (4-1, 1.14 ERA)
Harrisburg: Justin Jones (2-5, 4.25 ERA)

Notes

* Patton leads the Eastern League with a 1.14 ERA in seven starts, and his four wins rank second on the Baysox behind Bobby Livingston, who earned his fifth victory on Saturday night against Harrisburg. Patton hasn't pitched more than six innings in any of his starts so far this season. The 23-year-old left-hander tossed five scoreless innings against the Altoona Curve on May 19.

* Bowie improved to 20-20 after last night's win over the Senators. The Baysox are in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division, trailing the first-place Akron Aeros (30-10) by 10 games. Harrisburg (11-28) is in last place in the division, and the Senators are 18 1/2 games behind Akron.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Kinston Indians (2 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Tim Bascom (3-4, 2.78 ERA)
Kinston: Eric Berger (3-2, 1.82 ERA)

Notes

* Bascom is tied for the most victories on the Keys (three), but he also leads the team in losses (four). Despite only allowing two runs and five hits in seven innings, the 24-year-old right-hander suffered the loss against the Lynchburg Hillcats in his last start on May 19. Bascom has given up 26 runs in 35 2/3 innings this season, but only 12 were earned.

* The Keys (21-22) fell back below .500 with last night's loss to Kinston. Frederick is in last place in the Carolina League Northern Division, but first-place Lynchburg (27-15) is only 6 1/2 games ahead. Kinston (19-24) is in third place in the Southern Division. The Indians are 2 1/2 games behind the division-leading Winston-Salem Dash (21-21).

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Kannapolis Intimidators (2:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Oliver Drake (1-2, 3.31 ERA)
Kannapolis: Stephen Sauer (2-2, 3.24 ERA)

Notes

* Drake only gave up two runs and six hits in seven innings against the Hickory Crawdads in his last start on May 19, but he didn't factor in the decision. Opponents are batting .239 against the 22-year-old right-hander in 32 2/3 innings so far this season. Drake struck out 21 batters and issued eight walks in his first seven games (six starts) in 2009.

* With four straight victories, the Shorebirds (21-18) have climbed back into third place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. Delmarva trails the first-place Lakewood BlueClaws (24-17) by two games in the division, while the Kannapolis Intimidators (20-22) are 4 1/2 games behind.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides edged the Rochester Red Wings in extra innings, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox outlasted the Harrisburg Senators.

The Single-A Frederick Keys blew an early lead in a loss to the Kinston Indians, but the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds beat the Kannapolis Intimidators.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 5, Rochester Red Wings 4, 10 innings (Box score)

Recap: Tides starting pitcher Chris Tillman left the game after two innings with tightness in his groin. The 21-year-old right-hander allowed two unearned runs and three hits before being removed for precautionary reasons.

Relief pitcher Radhames Liz filled in nicely for Norfolk. The 25-year-old right-hander pitched four scoreless innings, giving up only three hits. Tides reliever Kam Mickolio (1-2) tossed one scoreless inning to collect his first victory of the season.

Tides first baseman Oscar Salazar was 3-for-4 with a solo home run and two runs scored. Catcher Matt Wieters collected two RBIs for Norfolk, while second baseman Justin Turner and shortstop Jolbert Cabrera each added one RBI.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 8, Harrisburg Senators 6 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Brandon Snyder was 2-for-3 with a grand slam and five RBIs, and the Baysox grabbed an 8-6 victory over Harrisburg.

Snyder is batting .357 with eight home runs and 36 RBIs in 39 games this season for Bowie.

Starting pitcher Bobby Livingston (5-1) collected his team-leading fifth victory after giving up four runs and eight hits in six innings for the Baysox. Relief pitcher Josh Perrault recorded the final two outs to collect his sixth save of the season for Bowie.

Baysox left fielder Dave Krynzel added three hits, and second baseman Miguel Abreu had two hits in the game.

Bowie designated hitter Brandon Pinckney, shortstop Robert Valido and third baseman Mike Costanzo each collected one RBI. Valido and center fielder Danny Figueroa each scored two runs for the Baysox.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Kinston Indians 10, Frederick Keys 5 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Brandon Waring hit a three-run home run in the first inning, and the Keys jumped out to a five-run lead after two innings. Kinston, however, soared past Frederick and sent the home team to a 10-5 loss at Harry Grove Stadium.

Keys starting pitcher Nathan Nery was charged with five runs (four earned) and seven hits in five innings. The 23-year-old left-hander walked four batters and collected three strikeouts.

Relief pitcher Brett Bordes (2-2) suffered the loss after allowing three runs and four hits in two innings. The 25-year-old left-hander has an 8.85 ERA in 18 games for the Keys this season. Cliff Flagello gave up two runs and three hits in two innings, raising his ERA to 8.31 in 14 appearances for Frederick in 2009.

Waring is hitting .303 with seven home runs and 30 RBIs in 42 games this season for Frederick.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 6, Kannapolis Intimidators 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Ryan O'Shea (3-2) gave up one run and three hits in seven innings, and the Shorebirds cruised to a 6-2 win over Kannapolis at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and issued three walks.

Delmarva shortstop Greg Miclat, who has been in a slump for most of the season, was 3-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored. The 21-year-old infielder raised his batting average to .207 with the three-hit performance. First baseman Joe Mahoney collected his 15th stolen base for the Shorebirds.

Relief pitcher Brent Allar allowed one run and two hits in two innings for Delmarva. The 24-year-old right-hander collected five strikeouts and walked one hitter.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game recaps
        

I've been running errands all morning, and I'm heading down to Nationals Park shortly for the game between the Orioles and Washington Nationals.

Therefore, unfortunately, I don't have much time to post anything more than probable pitchers for today's games for the full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides continue their series against the Rochester Red Wings, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox face the Harrisburg Senators again. The Single-A Frederick Keys play the Kinston Indians, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds host the Kannapolis Intimidators.

For all the people who keep asking, I believe Jason Berken will be the pitcher called up to start on Tuesday for the Orioles. I don't have any inside scoop on the subject, but that's my personal hunch because it would be his turn in the rotation for the Tides on that night.

David Hernandez looked impressive with 14 strikeouts in 7 1/3 innings against Rochester last night. Keep in mind, however, that the 24-year-old right-hander threw 114 pitches (84 strikes), so it's probably asking him a lot to make his major-league debut on short rest.

The Shorebirds activated infielder Jedidiah Stephen from the disabled list and sent infielder Javier Santana back to extended spring training.

It's Family Fitness Night at Harry Grove Stadium tonight, and former NBA player Gheorghe Muresan will be in attendance. There will also be fireworks after the game in Frederick.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Rochester Red Wings (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Tillman (5-0, 2.25 ERA)
Rochester: Philip Humber (1-1, 5.85 ERA)

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Harrisburg Senators (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Bobby Livingston (4-1, 3.46 ERA)
Harrisburg: Adrian Alaniz (1-2, 5.32 ERA)

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Kinston Indians (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Nathan Nery (0-1, 3.00 ERA)
Kinston: Russell Young (0-2, 5.66 ERA)

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Kannapolis Intimidators (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Ryan O'Shea (2-2, 4.14 ERA)
Kannapolis: Gregory Infante (2-2, 1.85 ERA)

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides beat the Rochester Red Wings, but the Double-A Bowie Baysox lost on the road against the Harrisburg Senators.

The Single-A Frederick Keys swept both games of their doubleheader against the Kinston Indians, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds defeated the Kannapolis Intimidators.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 4, Rochester Red Wings 3 (Box score)

Recap: If it was his last appearance for the Tides, starting pitcher David Hernandez sure knows how to go out in style.

The 24-year-old right-hander struck out 14 batters in 7 1/3 innings. Hernandez only allowed three unearned runs and three hits, but he didn't factor in the decision. He didn't walk any hitters in the game. After tonight's outing, Hernandez ranks second in the International League with 60 strikeouts.

Norfolk designated hitter Robby Hammock was 2-for-4 with a solo home run and two runs scored. Catcher Matt Wieters collected two hits, one RBI and one run scored, while infielder Jolbert Cabrera added two hits and one RBI.

Tides relief pitcher Jim Miller (1-1) suffered a blown save, but he wasn't charged with any runs in 1 1/3 innings. He struck out two batters and issued one walk in Norfolk's win.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Harrisburg Senators 3, Bowie Baysox 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Jake Arrieta (4-2) collected nine strikeouts, but he suffered the loss after allowing three runs in the first inning. The 23-year-old right-hander gave up six hits and one walk in six innings during Bowie's 3-2 loss to the Senators.

Baysox center fielder Dave Krynzel led the team with two hits and an RBI, and catcher Adam Donachie also added an RBI.

Right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion and shortstop Brandon Pinckney each collected two hits for Bowie.

Baysox relief pitcher Chad Thall tossed two scoreless innings.

Frederick Keys (A)

Game 1 score: Frederick Keys 9, Kinston Indians 4 (Box score)

Game 1 recap: Designated hitter Billy Rowell and third baseman Tyler Henson each picked up a home run and two RBIs in the Keys' 9-4 victory over Kinston in the completion of the suspended game between the two teams.

Frederick catcher Wally Crancer added two hits and two RBIs, and left fielder David Cash also had two RBIs. Shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. was 1-for-1 with three walks, an RBI and a run scored for the Keys.

Left-hander Zach Britton (2-1) allowed three runs and five hits in five innings, but he picked up his second consecutive victory. Relief pitcher Andrew Barb tossed four scoreless innings to earn his first save of the season.

In the game, Henson committed his 12th error, and Florimon made his 10th defensive miscue of the season.

Game 2 score: Frederick Keys 5, Kinston Indians 4, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 2 recap: The Keys scored four runs in the first inning and held on for a 5-4 win over Kinston in the second game.

Rowell was 1-for-2 with a double and two RBIs, and first baseman Brandon Waring was 2-for-3 with a run scored for Frederick. Florimon and center fielder Matt Angle were each 2-for-4 with a run scored for the Keys.

Frederick designated hitter Robbie Widlansky had one hit and one RBI in his season debut. Henson was 1-for-4 with an RBI, and he committed his 13th error of the season.

Keys relief pitcher Jake Stevens (2-0) didn't allow a hit in 3 1/3 innings, and he earned the victory. He struck out five batters and issued one walk.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 6, Kannapolis Intimidators 2 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Ronnie Welty hit two home runs -- a solo shot and a two-run blast -- and the Shorebirds cruised to a 6-2 win over Kannapolis.

Delmarva second baseman LJ Hoes was 2-for-4 with two RBIs, and center fielder Xavier Avery also collected a single and a run scored.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Cole McCurry (3-2) picked up the victory after allowing one unearned run and three hits in seven innings. The 23-year-old left-hander collected four strikeouts and walked one batter. Relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa recorded the final four outs to earn his first save of the season for Delmarva.

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

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides continue their series against the Rochester Red Wings, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox hit the road to face the Harrisburg Senators.

The Single-A Frederick Keys and Kinston Indians will play two games, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds return home to face the Kannapolis Intimidators.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Rochester Red Wings (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Hernandez (3-1, 3.50 ERA)
Rochester: Reid Santos (0-1, 5.96 ERA)

Notes

* Hernandez seems to be a popular choice among fans and writers as a replacement for Adam Eaton in the starting rotation for the Orioles. So, could this be his final start as a member of the Tides? It's too early to tell, but Hernandez pitched well in his previous start for Norfolk on May 16 against the Louisville Bats. The 24-year-old right-hander only allowed two hits in 5 1/3 scoreless innings during the Tides' 1-0 victory. He struck out six batters and issued four walks.

* Santos will make another start for the Red Wings after losing his spot in the rotation due to struggles early in the season. The 26-year-old left-hander was 0-1 with a 7.11 ERA in four starts for Rochester. Santos' last start was on May 5 against the Louisville Bats, and he made a relief appearance against the Indianapolis Indians on May 12. Santos only gave up two hits in 3 2/3 innings during the Red Wings' 6-5 win.

* Despite last night's loss, the Tides remain in first place in the International League South Division with a 26-13 record. Norfolk is 1 1/2 games ahead of the Durham Bulls (25-15) in the division. Rochester (20-18) is in third place in the North Division, and the Red Wings trail the first-place Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (27-13) by six games.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Harrisburg Senators (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Jake Arrieta (4-1, 2.70 ERA)
Harrisburg: Luis Atilano (2-3, 6.52 ERA)

Notes

* In his past two starts, Arrieta is 2-0 with a 0.75 ERA and 16 strikeouts in 12 innings. He tossed a seven-inning shutout against the Erie SeaWolves on May 16. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out 10 batters and allowed only one hit in Bowie's 4-0 win. Overall, Arrieta is tied for second in the Eastern League with 42 strikeouts, and he ranks 13th in ERA (2.70).

* It has been an up-and-down struggle for Atilano so far this season, but he pitched well against the Reading Phillies in his last start on May 17. The 24-year-old right-hander only allowed one run and six hits in five innings, and the Senators collected a 3-1 victory. Atilano, however, has given up at least four earned runs in four of his six starts in 2009.

* The Baysox are 19-19 this season, and they are currently in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division. Bowie is 10 games behind the division-leading Akron Aeros (29-9). Harrisburg (10-27) is in last place in the division, and the Senators are trailing Akron by 18 1/2 games.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Doubleheader vs. Kinston Indians (5 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Frederick: Zach Britton (1-1, 2.27 ERA)
Kinston: Joey Mahalic (0-1, 1.91 ERA with the Lake County Captains in 2009)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Frederick: Chris Salberg (1-3, 7.30 ERA)
Kinston: Jonathan Holt (1-1, 3.33 ERA)

Notes

* Prior to tonight's originally scheduled matchup, the two teams will resume the game that was suspended due to rain in Kinston last Sunday. The Keys are winning, 2-0, in the bottom of the first inning. Since the game was started in Kinston, the Indians will be the home team even though it will be completed at Harry Grove Stadium.

* Although he has several solid performances this season, Britton finally picked up his first victory against Kinston in his last start on May 16. The 21-year-old left-hander struck out six batters and scattered four hits in six scoreless innings during the Keys' 4-3 victory. Britton is fourth in the Carolina League with a 2.27 ERA, and he is tied for sixth in the league with 38 strikeouts in 35 2/3 innings.

* Mahalic was 0-1 with a 1.91 ERA in six starts for the Lake County Captains before recently being promoted to Kinston. He'll make his first appearance for the Indians in the opener tonight, but it technically doesn't count as a start since it's a suspended game.

* Salberg is scheduled to make his fourth start for the Keys in the nightcap. Primarily a relief pitcher, the 25-year-old left-hander is 1-3 with a 7.30 ERA in 10 games so far this season. Salberg suffered the loss against the Lynchburg Hillcats during his last appearance on May 18 after giving up five unearned runs in one inning.

* Holt will come out of the bullpen to make a spot start for Kinston in the second game. The 23-year-old right-hander is 1-1 with a 3.33 ERA in 12 appearances (one start) for the Indians so far this season. Overall, Holt has given up five home runs in 27 innings in 2009.

* The Keys (19-21) remain in last place in the Carolina League Northern Division, but they only trail first-place Lynchburg (25-15) by six games. After losing back-to-back games, Frederick won the final two meetings of their series against Lynchburg. Kinston is in third place in the Southern Division with an 18-22 record. The Indians trail the division-leading Salem Red Sox (21-20) by 2 1/2 games.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Kannapolis Intimidators (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (2-2, 1.93 ERA)
Kannapolis: Justin Edwards (1-1, 2.12 ERA)

Notes

* Although he still ranks eighth in the South Atlantic League with a 1.93 ERA, McCurry has suffered back-to-back losses for the Shorebirds. The 23-year-old left-hander gave up four runs and four hits in four innings against the West Virginia Power on May 17. McCurry collected four strikeouts and walked two batters in Delmarva's 10-2 loss.

* In his last start, Edwards didn't factor in the decision after allowing three runs and eight hits in six innings against the Lakewood BlueClaws on May 17. Overall, the 21-year-old left-hander has started three games for the Intimidators so far this season. Edwards missed the 2008 season after having Tommy John surgery.

* The Shorebirds are tied for third place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division with a 19-18 record. Kannapolis (20-20) is tied for fifth place in the division. Delmarva trails the division-leading Lakewood BlueClaws (23-16) by three games, while the Intimidators are 3 1/2 games back.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

All four full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system played in close games on Thursday, and there were mixed results.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost to the Rochester Red Wings in extra innings, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox were shut down by the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys beat the Lynchburg Hillcats, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds edged the Hickory Crawdads.

The Keys will make up the suspended game from this past Sunday against the Kinston Indians as part of a doubleheader on Friday night. The two teams will play two games beginning at 5 p.m. in Frederick.

Prior to tonight's game, the Baysox added Brandon Pinckney to their roster. The 27-year-old infielder was 1-for-3 in Bowie's loss to Altoona. Pinckney batted .280 with six home runs and 36 RBIs in 90 games for the Akron Aeros last season.

Speaking of the Aeros, starting pitcher Jeanmar Gomez threw the first perfect game in the minor leagues in almost two seasons on Thursday.

The 21-year-old right-hander lowered his ERA to 0.31 after his fourth start for Akron since being promoted from Kinston in late April. Gomez is 4-0, and he has 26 strikeouts and only one walk in 29 innings for the Aeros.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Rochester Red Wings 5, Norfolk Tides 4, 12 innings (Box score)

Recap: Catcher Matt Wieters was 1-for-4 with a solo home run and two RBIs, but the Tides' eight-game winning streak was snapped with a 5-4 loss to Rochester in 12 innings.

Designated hitter Robby Hammock and second baseman Justin Turner each added two hits for Norfolk. Turner is batting .424 (14-for-33) with one home run and five RBIs in his past 10 games. After getting off to a slow start for the Tides, he is now hitting .290 in 32 games this season.

Tides starting pitcher Jason Berken struck out seven batters in six innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 25-year-old right-hander gave up two runs and five hits. He threw 68 of his 95 pitches for strikes in the game.

Relief pitcher Ross Wolf (1-1) suffered the loss after allowing two runs and three hits in two innings for Norfolk.

Center fielder Joey Gathright had a triple and a run scored for the Tides.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Altoona Curve 2, Bowie Baysox 0 (Box score)

Recap: Altoona starting pitcher Brad Lincoln (1-3) only gave up two hits in a 2-0 shutout over the Baysox.

The 23-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and issued two walks in nine innings. Thanks to three double plays, he faced only one batter over the minimum.

John Mariotti (0-2) pitched much better than his previous two starts for the Baysox, but it wasn't enough for a win against the Curve. The 24-year-old right-hander allowed two runs and five hits in six innings. He collected four strikeouts and walked four batters.

Pinckney and right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion had Bowie's only two hits, while first baseman Brandon Snyder was 0-for-3. After going 0-for-4 in Wednesday's game against Altoona, Snyder was held hitless in back-to-back games for the first time this season.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 3, Lynchburg Hillcats 2 (Box score)

Recap: Designated hitter Bobby Stevens was 2-for-3 with an RBI, and the Keys grabbed a 3-2 victory over the Hillcats at Harry Grove Stadium.

Frederick starting pitcher Pedro Beato (2-3) earned the win after allowing two runs and five hits in six innings. The 22-year-old right-hander collected two strikeouts and walked two batters. Beato retired the first 10 batters he faced in order.

Shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. was 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored for the Keys, and right fielder Billy Rowell also added a double and a run scored. Frederick catcher Caleb Joseph had an RBI triple and a run scored.

Relief pitchers Cliff Flagello, Brett Bordes and Luis Lebron each tossed a scoreless inning for the Keys. Lebron picked up his seventh save of the season after striking out three of the four batters he faced.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 1, Hickory Crawdads 0 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Rick Zagone (4-3) struck out 10 batters in six innings, and the Shorebirds held off Hickory, 1-0. The 22-year-old left-hander gave up two hits and issued three walks.

Delmarva third baseman Tyler Kolodny drove in the only run of the game with an RBI single in the top of the sixth inning. Designated hiter Elvin Polanco and right fielder Ronnie Welty each added two hits for the Shorebirds.

Relief pitcher Joe Esposito tossed two scoreless innings for Delmarva, and closer Brandon Cooney earned his sixth save of the season after pitching the ninth.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides open up a four-game series against the Rochester Red Wings, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox face the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys wrap up their four-game series with the Lynchburg Hillcats, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds conclude their road trip with a game against the Hickory Crawdads.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Rochester Red Wings (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Jason Berken (2-0, 0.46 ERA)
Rochester: Kevin Mulvey (2-2, 4.15 ERA)

Notes

* In his last start, Berken gave up one run and six hits in 4 2/3 innings against the Syracuse Chiefs on May 15. It was the first time that an opponent scored on the 25-year-old right-hander since he was promoted from the Baysox in the middle of April. Berken has only allowed one run and 14 hits in 19 2/3 innings since being called up to the Tides.

* Mulvey suffered the loss in his last start after giving up seven runs and five hits in 4 1/3 innings against the Indianapolis Indians on May 15. The 23-year-old right-hander walked five batters and collected five strikeouts in the Red Wings' 8-3 loss. It was Mulvey's first lackluster outing since he gave up three runs and seven hits in 4 2/3 innings against the Pawtucket Red Sox on April 15.

* The Tides (26-12) hold the best record in the International League, and they are 2 1/2 games ahead of the Durham Bulls (24-15) in the South Division. Norfolk is currently on an eight-game winning streak, while Rochester has suffered back-to-back losses. The Red Wings (19-18) are in third place in the North Division. They trail the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (26-13) by six games in the division.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Altoona Curve (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: John Mariotti (0-1, 8.68 ERA)
Altoona: Brad Lincoln (0-3, 2.87 ERA)

Notes

* Since being promoted from Frederick, Mariotti has struggled in two starts for the Baysox. The 24-year-old right-hander gave up six runs (five earned) and six hits in 4 1/3 innings during Bowie's 12-5 loss to the Erie SeaWolves in his last start on May 15. Mariotti allowed four runs and six hits in five innings against Erie in his Double-A debut on May 9.

* Lincoln, who the Pittsburgh Pirates selected with the fourth overall pick in the 2006 MLB draft, is still searching for his first victory of the 2009 season. Although he is winless, the 23-year-old right-hander hasn't pitched poorly. Lincoln has not allowed more than three earned runs in any of his seven starts, and he is tied for seventh in the Eastern League with 36 strikeouts.

* The Baysox finally made it back over the .500 mark with yesterday's win. Bowie (19-18) has won five straight games, but the Baysox remain in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division. They trail the division-leading Akron Aeros (28-9) by nine games, while Altoona (12-26) is 16 1/2 games behind and in fifth place.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Lynchburg Hillcats (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Pedro Beato (1-3, 4.79 ERA)
Lynchburg: Paul Mildren (1-3, 5.46 ERA)

Notes

* Beato gave up three runs and six hits in six innings during his last start against the Kinston Indians on May 15. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out two batters and issued two walks, but he didn't factor in the decision as the Keys won, 6-4. Beato has allowed exactly three earned runs in six of his seven starts this season.

* Although he has struggled to be consistent in 2009, Mildren pitched well in his last start for Lynchburg. The 25-year-old left-hander held the Wilmington Blue Rocks to two runs and eight hits in six innings during the Hillcats' 6-5 loss on May 16. Mildren left with a 5-2 lead, but the bullpen was unable to preserve the victory.

* After last night's win over Lynchburg, the Keys improved to 18-21 this season. Frederick remains in last place in the Carolina League Northern Division, but recently they have been inching closer to the rest of the pack. The Keys trail the division-leading Hillcats (25-14) by seven games.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Hickory Crawdads (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Richard Zagone (3-3, 2.56 ERA)
Hickory: Carlos Pimentel (2-1, 3.93 ERA)

Notes

* Zagone looks to rebound after a rocky outing against the West Virginia Power in his last start on May 15. The 22-year-old left-hander gave up five runs and nine hits in 3 2/3 innings, and the Shorebirds suffered a 5-4 loss to West Virginia. Zagone is tied with Cole McCurry for the most strikeouts on the team. Both pitchers have 36.

* Pimentel earned the win after allowing three runs and six hits in five innings against the Lake County Captains during his last start on May 16. The 19-year-old right-hander struck out six batters and issued three walks in the game, which ended after five innings due to rain. Pimentel has surrendered five home runs in 36 2/3 innings this season, which is tied for the second-most in the South Atlantic League.

* The Shorebirds snapped an eight-game losing streak with last night's victory over Hickory. Delmarva is tied for fifth place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division with an 18-18 record. Hickory is tied for third place in the division with a 20-19 record. The Crawdads trail the division-leading Lakewood BlueClaws (23-15) by 3 1/2 games, and the Shorebirds are four games behind.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Game previews
        

It was a clean sweep for the three full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system who played on Wednesday.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox edged the Altoona Curve, and the Single-A Frederick Keys beat the Lynchburg Hillcats. The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds snapped an eight-game losing streak with a victory over the Hickory Crawdads.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 8, Altoona Curve 7 (Box score)

Recap: Catcher Guillermo Rodriguez was 2-for-2 with two doubles and two runs scored, and the Baysox outlasted Altoona, 8-7, at Prince George's Stadium.

Bowie designated hitter Adam Donachie collected two RBIs, and third baseman Mike Costanzo was 1-for-3 with two runs scored. First baseman Brandon Snyder was 0-for-4 for the Baysox.

Starting pitcher Sean Gleason gave up six runs (five earned) and seven hits in five innings for Bowie. The 23-year-old right-hander walked three batters and collected two strikeouts, but he didn't factor in the decision.

Baysox relief pitcher Ryan Ouellette (1-0) couldn't hold Bowie's one-run lead in the seventh inning, but he earned the win when the team went back ahead in the bottom of the inning. The 23-year-old right-hander walked two batters and picked up two outs in the game.

Josh Perrault allowed two hits and a walk in one inning, but he was able to earn his third save of the season for the Baysox.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 9, Lynchburg Hillcats 5 (Box score)

Recap: While he wasn't unhittable, Keys starting pitcher Brian Matusz (3-2) struck out nine batters in the team's 9-5 win over Lynchburg. The 22-year-old left-hander gave up three runs and four hits in seven innings.

Keys shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. led the offensive attack by going 3-for-4 with a triple, a home run, three RBIs and three runs scored. First baseman Brandon Waring was 2-for-4 with a double and a solo home run for Frederick, and center fielder Kraig Binick collected two hits.

Catcher Caleb Joseph, designated hitter Bobby Stevens and second baseman Rodolfo Cardona each added an RBI for the Keys.

Frederick relief pitcher Luis Lebron allowed one run and three hits in 1 2/3 innings, and he earned his sixth save in 2009.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 6, Hickory Crawdads 2 (Box score)

Recap: After eight straight losses, the Shorebirds were able to beat Hickory, 6-2. Starting pitcher Nathan Moreau struck out seven batters in four innings for Delmarva, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 22-year-old left-hander allowed two runs and six hits.

Delmarva designated hitter Elvin Polanco was 2-for-5 with a two-run home run. Shorebirds center fielder Xavier Avery, third baseman Tyler Kolodny and left fielder Kyle Hudson each added two hits and an RBI.

First baseman Joe Mahoney scored two runs, and he collected his 14th stolen base for the Shorebirds. The 22-year-old infielder has not been caught stealing so far this season, and he is tied for third in the South Atlantic League in stolen bases.

Relief pitcher Raul Rivero (3-0) tossed three scoreless innings to earn the victory for the Shorebirds. The 23-year-old right-hander collected three strikeouts and didn't walk anyone. Pat Egan pitched two scoreless innings to earn his second save of the season for Delmarva.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides don't play tonight, but the other three full-season affiliates in the Orioles' minor league system are in action.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox host the Altoona Curve at Prince George's Stadium, and the Single-A Frederick Keys play the Lynchburg Hillcats at Harry Grove Stadium.

The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds are on the road against the Hickory Crawdads.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Altoona Curve (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Sean Gleason (1-3, 7.40 ERA)
Altoona: Kyle Bloom (0-1, 5.40 ERA)

Notes

* After two games (one start) with the Keys and four lackluster starts for Bowie this season, Gleason finally earned his first victory in his last start against the Erie SeaWolves on May 14. Gleason allowed one run and six hits in five innings in Bowie's 6-1 win. The 23-year-old right-hander was 12-2 with a 2.63 ERA in 30 games (21 starts) for the Shorebirds in 2008, but he's still looking to adjust to the Double-A level.

* Bloom is scheduled to make his third start of the season for the Curve. The 26-year-old left-hander suffered the loss against the Akron Aeros in his last game on May 14. He gave up four runs (three earned) and five hits in four innings during Altoona's 7-0 loss. Opponents are batting .294 against Bloom in his first two starts in 2009.

* With four straight wins, the Baysox have pulled to the .500 mark for the first time since April 22. Bowie is 18-18 this season, which is good enough for fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division. The Akron Aeros lead the division with a 28-8 record, which puts them 10 games ahead of the Baysox. Altoona (12-25) is in fifth place in the division, trailing the Aeros by 16 1/2 games.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Lynchburg Hillcats (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Brian Matusz (2-2, 2.95 ERA)
Lynchburg: Chi-Hung Cheng (3-1, 4.41 ERA)

Notes

* In every start since his first of the season, Matusz has struck out at least six hitters. The 22-year-old left-hander collected 13 strikeouts against the Wilmington Blue Rocks on May 8, and he followed that up with a six-strikeout performance against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans in his last start on May 14. Matusz leads the Carolina League with 51 strikeouts, and he is eighth in the league with a 2.95 ERA after eight starts.

* Cheng gave up three runs and seven hits in 5 2/3 innings against Wilmington in his last start on May 15. The 23-year-old left-hander has allowed 16 runs and 39 hits in 32 2/3 innings during eight games (six starts) for the Hillcats, an affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates, this season. He was 5-9 with a 4.88 ERA in 25 games (14 starts) for the Single-A Lansing Lugnuts -- a member of the Toronto Blue Jays' minor league system -- in the Midwest League in 2008.

* After losing back-to-back games, the Keys dropped back into last place all by themselves in the Carolina League Northern Division. Frederick is 17-21, which is eight games behind the division-leading Hillcats (25-13).

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Hickory Crawdads (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Nathan Moreau (0-1, 11.81 ERA)
Hickory: Martin Perez (1-2, 2.84 ERA)

Notes

* Moreau was roughed up for seven runs (six earned) and seven hits in 2 1/3 innings by the West Virginia Power during his last start on May 14. The 22-year-old left-hander allowed two home runs in the Shorebirds' 14-4 loss. Moreau pitched much better in his first start for Delmarva. He gave up one run and two hits in three innings, and the Shorebirds beat the Power, 7-1, on May 8.

* Perez celebrated his 18th birthday in April, and the young left-hander has pitched extremely well so far this season. In each of his seven games (four starts), Perez has not allowed more than three earned runs or four hits. His outings have ranged from four to five innings. In his last appearance, Perez gave up two runs and four hits in five innings against the Lake County Captains on May 15.

* The Shorebirds are descending rapidly into the bottom of the South Atlantic League Northern Division. Following eight consecutive losses, Delmarva is now 17-18 and in sixth place in the division. The Shorebirds trail the division-leading Lakewood BlueClaws (22-15) by four games, while Hickory is in third place -- 2 1/2 games behind Lakewood -- with a 20-18 record.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides beat the Louisville Bats, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox blanked the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys lost again to the Lynchburg Hillcats. The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds continued their slide with another loss to the Hickory Crawdads.

Prior to today's game, the Keys added outfielder Robbie Widlansky to their roster. In order to make room for him, the Orioles released designated hitter Chris Vinyard.

Widlansky batted .266 with four home runs and 31 RBIs in 55 games while splitting time between the Shorebirds and short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds last season. Vinyard was hitting .208 with four home runs and 15 RBIs in 34 games for the Keys in 2009.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 7, Louisville Bats 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Chris Waters (4-2) allowed two runs and five hits in six innings, and the Tides cruised to their eighth straight win, 7-2, over Louisville. The 28-year-old left-hander struck out four batters and issued one walk.

Norfolk center fielder Justin Christian, designated hitter Oscar Salazar and first baseman Steve Torrealba all hit a two-run home run in the game. Catcher Matt Wieters and second baseman Justin Turner were both 2-for-4 with a run scored for the Tides.

Relief pitchers Ross Wolf, Matt Albers and Bob McCrory each tossed a scoreless inning for Norfolk.

With their current winning streak, the Tides are now 26-12, which is the best record in the International League. They are 2 1/2 games ahead of the Durham Bulls (24-15) in the South Division. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (26-13) have the second-best record in the league.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 2, Altoona Curve 0 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Brandon Snyder smacked a two-run home run in the fourth inning, and that was all the Baysox needed to win, 2-0, against Altoona at Prince George's Stadium.

Snyder continues to lead the Eastern League with a .373 batting average, and he is tied for first in the league with 31 RBIs. The 22-year-old first baseman is also tied for third in the league with seven home runs, and he is tied for second in the league with 13 doubles.

Bowie starting pitcher Troy Patton (4-1) collected five strikeouts and gave up five hits in five scoreless innings to earn the victory. The 23-year-old left-hander threw 95 pitches in the start.

Left-hander Wilfrido Perez retired all six batters he faced to pick up his seventh save of the season for the Baysox.

Right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion was 1-for-3 with a double for Bowie, and designated hitter Guillermo Rodriguez added a single. Baysox left fielder Jonathan Tucker walked and scored on Snyder's home run.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Lynchburg Hillcats 2, Frederick Keys 1 (Box score)

Recap: The Keys scored one run in the first inning, but they didn't cross the plate again in a 2-1 loss to Lynchburg.

Frederick center fielder Matt Angle collected a leadoff walk, and he moved to third base on a double by left fielder David Cash. Third baseman Tyler Henson knocked Angle in with an RBI groundout, but that's all the Keys could manage.

Second baseman Rodolfo Cardona was 2-for-3 with a triple and a stolen base for Frederick, and right fielder Billy Rowell had a single.

Keys starting pitcher Tim Bascom (3-4) gave up two runs and five hits in seven innings. Relief pitcher Andrew Barb tossed two scoreless innings for Frederick.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Hickory Crawdads 3, Delmarva Shorebirds 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Oliver Drake allowed two runs and six hits in seven innings, but the Shorebirds still suffered a 3-2 loss to Hickory. The 22-year-old right-hander collected three strikeouts and walked one batter.

Delmarva relief pitcher Colin Allen (0-3) suffered the loss after giving up one run and three hits in one inning.

Shorebirds first baseman Elvin Polanco was 2-for-4 with two RBIs, and right fielder Ronnie Welty added two hits. Left fielder Kyle Hudson was 1-for-3 with two runs scored for Delmarva.

Also, the benches reportedly cleared in the bottom of the eighth inning after Welty threw out Crawdads right fielder Michael Bianucci at home plate. Bianucci attempted to knock the ball loose by colliding with Shorebirds catcher Dustin Black, and a small confrontation occurred.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides will attempt to sweep the Louisville Bats this afternoon, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox return to action against the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys face the Lynchburg Hillcats, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds look to snap their seven-game losing streak when they play the Hickory Crawdads this morning.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Louisville Bats (12:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Waters (3-2, 5.02 ERA)
Louisville: Daryl Thompson (1-2, 7.40 ERA)

Notes

* In each of his past two starts for the Tides, Waters has pitched seven innings. The 28-year-old left-hander earned the win against the Syracuse Chiefs on May 14 after giving up three runs and four hits. He struck out six batters and issued two walks in Norfolk's 12-3 victory. Waters allowed one run and three hits in the Tides' 4-1 loss to the Buffalo Bisons on May 8.

* Thompson, who graduated from La Plata High School in 2003, struggled in his last start. The 23-year-old right-hander gave up five runs and six hits in 2 2/3 innings during Louisville's 11-6 loss to the Durham Bulls. Thompson was 0-2 with a 6.91 ERA in three starts for the Cincinnati Reds last season.

* The Tides (25-12) are currently on a seven-game winning streak, which has allowed them to build a 2 1/2-game lead in the International League South Division. After six consecutive losses, Louisville (18-20) is 1/2 game behind the Columbus Clippers in the West Division.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Altoona Curve (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Troy Patton (3-1, 1.31 ERA)
Altoona: Daniel Moskos (2-2, 4.41 ERA)

Notes

* Despite suffering a loss against the Akron Aeros in his last start on May 13, Patton continues to lead the Eastern League with a 1.31 ERA in six games for the Baysox. The 23-year-old left-hander allowed two runs and five hits in six innings during Bowie's 2-1 loss to the Aeros. Overall, opponents are batting .171 in 34 1/3 innings against Patton this season.

* The Pittsburgh Pirates selected Moskos with the fourth overall pick in the 2007 MLB draft, but the 23-year-old left-hander still hasn't lived up to the expectations that come with such a high choice. In 49 games (26 starts) in the minor leagues, Moskos is 9-9 with a 5.39 ERA. He earned the win in his last start after giving up two runs (one earned) and six hits in six innings against the Harrisburg Senators on May 13.

* After winning four out of five games against the Erie SeaWolves over the weekend, the Baysox improved to 17-18 this season. Bowie remains in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division. The Akron Aeros (27-8) are 10 games ahead of the Baysox. Altoona (12-24) is in fifth place in the division, 15 1/2 games behind the Aeros.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Lynchburg Hillcats (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Tim Bascom (3-3, 2.83 ERA)
Lynchburg: Ronald Uviedo (1-1, 3.47 ERA)

Notes

* Bascom started for Frederick on Sunday against the Kinston Indians, but he only threw four pitches before the game was suspended in the bottom of the first inning. So, the Keys decided to push all of their starting pitchers back one day and allow the 24-year-old right-hander to face Lynchburg. Bascom gave up two hits in 6 1/3 scoreless innings against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on May 12.

* On April 22, Uviedo allowed two hits and collected five strikeouts in five scoreless innings against the Keys in Lynchburg. The 22-year-old right-hander wasn't as successful in his last start. Uviedo gave up five runs and eight hits in six innings during the Hillcats' 6-5 victory over the Winston-Salem Dash.

* Despite last night's loss, Frederick is playing well lately. The Keys have won seven of their past nine games to climb to 17-20 this season. Frederick is in last place in the Carolina League Northern Division, trailing the first-place Hillcats (24-13) by seven games.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Hickory Crawdads (11 a.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Oliver Drake (1-2, 3.51 ERA)
Hickory: Wilmer Font (2-0, 1.50 ERA)

Notes

* Drake's last start was suspended by rain after he threw 1 2/3 innings against the Greensboro Grasshoppers on May 9. So, the 22-year-old right-hander pitched two innings as a reliever against Greensboro on May 12. Drake allowed two runs (one earned) and four hits in Delmarva's 10-5 loss to the Grasshoppers. He has given up one earned run or less in four of his six outings so far this season.

* In eight games (five starts), Font is 2-0 with a 1.50 ERA. The 18-year-old right-hander has collected 25 strikeouts and issued 16 walks in 24 innings this season. Font allowed four hits in five scoreless innings against the Lake County Captains in his last start on May 14. He earned the win after striking out six batters and issuing three walks.

* The Shorebirds are desperate for a victory after losing their past seven games. Delmarva is now 17-17 and in fifth place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. The Shorebirds trail the division-leading Lakewood BlueClaws (21-15) by three games, while Hickory (19-18) is 2 1/2 games behind the BlueClaws.

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

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides won both games of their doubleheader against the Louisville Bats.

The Single-A Frederick Keys and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds each lost in extra innings.

Prior to today's game, the Shorebirds placed infielder Jedidiah Stephen on the 7-day disabled list, retroactive to May 16, with an elbow injury.

Delmarva later announced that Javier Santana was added to the roster from extended spring training. The 21-year-old infielder will be available for Tuesday's game against the Hickory Crawdads.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Game 1 score: Norfolk Tides 6, Louisville Bats 2, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 1 recap: After giving up a two-run home run to Louisville right fielder Jonny Gomes in the first inning, Tides starting pitcher Chris Tillman (5-0) settled down as Norfolk won, 6-2, in the first game.

The 21-year-old right-hander allowed two runs and six hits in five innings. Tillman, who is now tied for the lead in the International League in victories, struck out five batters and issued one walk for the Tides. He threw 49 of his 88 pitches for strikes.

Norfolk right fielder Jeff Fiorentino was 1-for-3 with a three-run home run in the fifth inning. Catcher Matt Wieters had a two-run triple, and first baseman Oscar Salazar was 1-for-2 with an RBI and a run scored for the Tides.

Relief pitcher Radhames Liz tossed two scoreless innings to close out the win for the Tides. He allowed two hits and lowered his ERA to 6.08.

Game 2 score: Norfolk Tides 2, Louisville Bats 0, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 2 recap: Starting pitcher David Pauley (3-3) tossed six scoreless innings, and the Tides swept the doubleheader with a 2-0 win over Louisville. The 25-year-old right-hander allowed four hits and struck out seven batters.

Norfolk right fielder Justin Christian collected an RBI double, and Wieters also added an RBI. Shortstop Jolbert Cabrera was 2-for-3 for the Tides.

Relief pitcher Jim Miller struck out all three hitters he faced to earn his 10th save of the season, which is the best in the league.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Lynchburg Hillcats 13, Frederick Keys 9, 11 innings (Box score)

Recap: Relief pitcher Chris Salberg (1-3) allowed five unearned runs in the top of the 11th inning after shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. committed a throwing error, and the Keys lost, 13-9, to the Lynchburg Hillcats.

It was Florimon's 10th defensive miscue this season, and Frederick right fielder Billy Rowell and second baseman Bobby Stevens also made errors in the game.

Rowell had a solo home run and two RBIs for the Keys, and third baseman Tyler Henson added a three-run shot. Catcher Caleb Joseph was 4-for-6 with an RBI and a run scored for Frederick, while first baseman Brandon Waring collected two doubles and two RBIs.

Keys starting pitcher Nathan Nery gave up five runs (two earned) and seven hits in six innings. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out six batters and issued one walk, but he didn't factor in the decision.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Hickory Crawdads 4, Delmarva Shorebirds 3, 14 innings (Box score)

Recap: Relief pitcher Brent Allar (0-1) surrendered a bases-loaded walk in the bottom of the 14th inning, and the Shorebirds suffered their seventh consecutive loss, 4-3, against Hickory.

The 24-year-old right-hander allowed two hits and walked four batters in 3 1/3 innings. He also collected six strikeouts for Delmarva in the loss.

Shorebirds center fielder Xavier Avery was 4-for-7 with a run scored, and right fielder Ronnie Welty added two hits and two RBIs.

The Crawdads tied the game with two outs in the ninth inning after left fielder Eric Fry connected for a solo home run against Shorebirds relief pitcher Joe Esposito.

Starting pitcher Ryan O'Shea gave up one run and one hit -- a solo home run to Crawdads second baseman Erik Morrison -- in six innings for Delmarva, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out six batters and issued three walks.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Double-A Bowie Baysox starting pitcher Jake Arrieta was selected as the Eastern League Pitcher of the Week after earning two victories last week.

Arrieta earned his first career shutout in a rain-shortened victory over the Erie SeaWolves at Prince George's Stadium on Saturday. He struck out 10 batters and allowed only one hit in seven innings during Bowie's 4-0 victory.

The 23-year-old right-hander allowed one run and four hits in five innings on the road against the first-place Akron Aeros on May 11. He collected six strikeouts and walked two hitters as the Baysox won, 3-1.

Arrieta, who the Orioles selected in the fifth round of the 2007 MLB draft, is tied for second in the league with 42 strikeouts in seven starts. He is also tied with Bobby Livingston for the most victories on the Baysox (four).

The last Baysox pitcher to earn the award was closer Julio Manon, who was honored for his performance during the week of April 28 to May 4, 2008. In my opinion, this tidbit is very remarkable because of all the successful starting pitchers who have played in Bowie over the past two seasons.

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

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides play a doubleheader against the Louisville Bats. The first game is scheduled for 6:15 p.m., and both contests are scheduled for seven innings.

The Single-A Frederick Keys return to Harry Grove Stadium to face the Lynchburg Hillcats, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds play on the road against the Hickory Crawdads.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox are idle.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Doubleheader vs. Louisville Bats (6:15 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Tillman (4-0, 2.03 ERA)
Louisville: Sam LeCure (2-2, 4.19 ERA)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Pauley (2-3, 4.68 ERA)
Louisville: Homer Bailey (3-4, 4.81 ERA)

Notes

* Tillman has earned a win in each of his past four starts for the Tides. The 21-year-old right-hander hasn't allowed an earned run in three of his seven starts this season. Tillman gave up five hits in six scoreless innings against the Syracuse Chiefs in his last start on May 12. He struck out 10 batters and issued two walks in Norfolk's 9-1 victory.

* LeCure allowed four runs and eight hits in 5 2/3 innings against the Durham Bulls in his last start on May 12. The 25-year-old right-hander struck out three batters and issued two walks. LeCure pitched much better against the Rochester Red Wings on May 7. He collected eight strikeouts and gave up five hits in seven scoreless innings.

* In his last start, Pauley gave up three runs and nine hits in 6 2/3 innings against Syracuse on May 13. The 25-year-old right-hander collected one strikeout, but he didn't factor in the decision in Norfolk's 5-3 win over the Chiefs. Opponents are batting .310 against Pauley in six starts this season.

* It has been an up-and-down start to the 2009 season for Bailey, who was a former top prospect in the Cincinnati Reds' minor league system. The 23-year-old right-hander lost his first two starts, but then he rebounded to win his next three games. Now, he is working on back-to-back losses again. Bailey gave up four runs and six hits in six innings against Durham on May 13.

* After winning five consecutive games, the Tides maintain a two-game lead in the International League South Division with a 23-12 record. Durham (22-15) is in second place in the division. Louisville (18-18) is leading the West Division by one game over the Columbus Clippers (18-20) and Indianapolis Indians (17-19).

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Lynchburg Hillcats (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Nathan Nery (0-1, 3.00 ERA)
Lynchburg: Justin Wilson (2-3, 5.86 ERA)

Notes

* Despite only allowing one unearned run and five hits in six innings, Nery suffered the loss against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans in his last start on May 13. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out six batters and issued one walk in the Keys' 2-1 loss. Nery was 3-0 with a 1.17 ERA in five games (four starts) for the Shorebirds before being promoted to Frederick.

* Wilson was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2008 after leading Fresno State to the national championship in the College World Series. The 21-year-old left-hander signed too late to play professional baseball last season. He earned the win after allowing three hits in five scoreless innings against the Keys on April 21.

* Frederick (17-19) has won three straight games, bringing the Keys into a tie for third place in the Carolina League Northern Division with the Wilmington Blue Rocks. Both teams trail first-place Lynchburg (23-13) by six games in the division.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Hickory Crawdads (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Ryan O'Shea (2-2, 4.65 ERA)
Hickory: Joseph Wieland (5-1, 1.44 ERA with rookie-level AZL Rangers in 2008)

Notes

* O'Shea was roughed up by the Greensboro Grasshoppers in his last start on May 12. The 22-year-old left-hander suffered the loss after giving up six runs (five earned) and eight hits in 3 2/3 innings. O'Shea also struggled against the Grasshoppers on April 30 -- allowing six runs and 11 hits in 4 1/3 innings -- but he has pitched well in his other four starts this season.

* Wieland will make his first start for the Crawdads after being added to the roster from extended spring training. The 19-year-old right-hander was 5-1 with a 1.44 ERA in 13 games (seven starts) for the rookie-level AZL Rangers in the Arizona League last season. Wieland collected 41 strikeouts and walked eight batters in 43 2/3 innings in 2008.

* With six consecutive losses, the Shorebirds (17-16) dropped to third place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. Delmarva is tied with the Hagerstown Suns, and both teams trail the division-leading Lakewood BlueClaws (20-15) by two games. Hickory is tied for fifth place in the division with the Kannapolis Intimidators. Both teams are 2 1/2 games behind the BlueClaws with an 18-18 record.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

Rain forced the game between the Triple-A Norfolk Tides and Louisville Bats to be postponed, and the matchup between the Single-A Frederick Keys and Kinston Indians was suspended in the bottom of the first inning due to the weather.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox defeated the Erie SeaWolves for the fourth time in five games this weekend at Prince George's Stadium.

The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds lost both games of a doubleheader to the West Virginia Power.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

As I mentioned earlier, the Tides and Bats were unable to play their scheduled game due to inclement weather. The two teams will make up the rainout as part of a doubleheader on Monday beginning at 6:15 p.m. Chris Tillman is expected to start the first game for Norfolk, and David Pauley will pitch in the nightcap. Sam LeCure and Homer Bailey will start the two games for Louisville.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 3, Erie SeaWolves 1 (Box score)

Recap: The Baysox beat Erie, 3-1, to complete a series in which they won four out of five games from the SeaWolves this weekend.

Bowie starting pitcher Bobby Livingston (4-1) earned the victory after giving up one run and seven hits in five innings. The 26-year-old left-hander is now tied with Jake Arrieta for the most wins on the team.

Baysox third baseman Mike Costanzo was 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI, and first baseman Brandon Snyder also added an RBI double. Center fielder Jonathan Tucker was 1-for-3 with a double and a run scored for Bowie.

Relief pitcher Ryan Ouellette allowed one hit in two scoreless innings for the Baysox, while Chad Thall and Josh Perrault each tossed one scoreless frame. Perrault earned his second save of the season for Bowie.

Frederick Keys (A)

The Keys scored two runs before the rain forced their game against Kinston to be suspended with the Indians batting in the bottom of the first inning. There is no word on when the game will be continued. Frederick is scheduled to make two more trips to Kinston this season -- once in July and once in August. The Keys return home to play the Lynchburg Hillcats in a four-game series beginning tomorrow night at Harry Grove Stadium.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Game 1 score: West Virginia Power 10, Delmarva Shorebirds 2, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 1 recap: Starting pitcher Cole McCurry (2-2) encountered his first rough outing of the season, and the Shorebirds suffered a 10-2 loss in the first game of the doubleheader. The 23-year-old left-hander allowed four runs and four hits in four innings, raising his ERA to 1.93 after seven starts in 2009.

Delmarva right fielder Jacob Julius was 2-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored, and first baseman Joe Mahoney was 1-for-3 with a double and a run scored.

Relief pitcher Colin Allen was charged with six runs and six hits in one inning for the Shorebirds. The 22-year-old right-hander also walked three batters and gave up two home runs.

Shorebirds designated hitter Dustin Black was 0-for-2 after pinch-hitting for Elvin Polanco in the fourth inning. Black later pitched an inning for Delmarva, allowing one hit and one walk.

Game 2 score: West Virginia Power 2, Delmarva Shorebirds 1, 8 innings (Box score)

Game 2 recap: Raul Rivero pitched well in a spot start for the Shorebirds, but they eventually lost to West Virginia, 2-1, in eight innings. The 23-year-old right-hander gave up one run and two hits in three innings for Delmarva.

Shorebirds second baseman LJ Hoes was 1-for-4 with a double, but he also committed his ninth error of the season. Delmarva scored its only run on a solo homer by catcher Victor Castillo in the fifth inning.

Relief pitcher Pat Egan lowered his ERA to 0.96 in eight appearances for the Shorebirds after tossing three scoreless innings against the Power. Brandon Cooney (0-2) suffered the loss for Delmarva after giving up one run and two hits in 1 1/3 innings.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 7:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game recaps
        

For the second straight day, I'm only going to have time to post the probable pitchers.

I'll continue with the regular game previews tomorrow, so thanks again for your patience.

Today's game between the Triple-A Norfolk Tides and Louisville Bats has already been postponed due to rain.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox will host the Erie SeaWolves at 2:05 p.m., and the Single-A Frederick Keys are scheduled to play on the road against the Kinston Indians at 2 p.m.

The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds will face the West Virginia Power in a doubleheader. The first game is scheduled to begin at 2:05 p.m. in Charleston, W.Va.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

The Tides and Bats will make up today's rainout as part of a doubleheader on Monday beginning at 6:15 p.m. Chris Tillman is expected to start the first game for Norfolk, and David Pauley will pitch in the nightcap. Sam LeCure and Homer Bailey will start the two games for Louisville.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Erie SeaWolves (2:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Bobby Livingston (3-1, 3.72 ERA)
Erie: Alfredo Figaro (2-0, 2.61 ERA)

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Kinston Indians (2 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Tim Bascom (3-3, 2.83 ERA)
Kinston: Joey Mahalic (0-1, 1.91 ERA with the Single-A Lake County Captains in 2009)

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Doubleheader at West Virginia Power (2:05 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (2-1, 1.08 ERA)
West Virginia: Gabriel Alvarado (1-2, 5.96 ERA)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Ryan O'Shea (2-2, 4.65 ERA)
West Virginia: Maurice Bankston (1-3, 4.40 ERA)

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

OK, so I'm glad no one listened to my prediction that Rachel Alexandra wouldn't be a factor in the Preakness. The 3-year-old filly dominated the race, but Mine That Bird charged hard at the end.

Still, he just ran out of room to continue the comeback. Since the Belmont Stakes is a longer race, I think Mine That Bird is the best candidate to win the third leg of the Triple Crown.

Anyway, there were a couple of roster moves in the Orioles' minor league system before Saturday's games.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides placed infielder Scott Moore on the 7-day disabled list, retroactive to May 15, with a sprained right thumb. To take his place, infielder Melvin Dorta was promoted from the Double-A Bowie Baysox.

The Baysox also placed infielder Paco Figueroa on the 7-day disabled list, retroactive to May 15, and added infielder Buck Britton from extended spring training.

Britton, who is the older brother of Single-A Frederick Keys starting pitcher Zach Britton, batted .289 with 14 RBIs in 47 games for the rookie-level Bluefield Orioles last season.

Norfolk, Bowie and Frederick were all victorious on Saturday, while the game between the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds and West Virginia Power was rained out.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 1, Louisville Bats 0 (Box score)

Recap: Designated hitter Matt Wieters hit a triple with two outs in the first inning, and he scored on an RBI single by first baseman Oscar Salazar for the game's only run in the Tides' 1-0 victory over Louisville.

Dorta, who played second base, was 1-for-2 with a stolen base in his debut for Norfolk. The 27-year-old infielder also committed a fielding error in the game.

Tides starting pitcher David Hernandez (3-1) earned the win after giving up two hits in 5 1/3 innings. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out six batters and issued four walks. Hernandez threw 66 of his 102 pitches for strikes.

Relief pitcher Bob McCrory tossed 1 2/3 scoreless innings in his first appearance since being sent back to the Tides. Kam Mickolio and Alberto Castillo each pitched a scoreless inning for Norfolk. Castillo earned his second save of the season.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 4, Erie SeaWolves 0, 7 innings (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Jake Arrieta (4-1) only allowed one hit in seven innings during Bowie's rain-shortened 4-0 victory over Erie. The 23-year-old right-hander gets credit for his first professional shutout since the game was stopped short due to inclement weather at Prince George's Stadium.

Arrieta collected 10 strikeouts, which matched his career high, and he walked three batters in the win for the Baysox. Arrieta is now second in the Eastern League with 42 strikeouts in seven starts.

Baysox first baseman Brandon Snyder continues to play well. The 22-year-old infielder was 1-for-3 with a two-run home run in the first inning against Erie. He is tied for first in the league with a .375 batting average. Snyder also has 12 doubles, six home runs and 28 RBIs.

Designated hitter Guillermo Rodriguez had a double and a run scored for Bowie.

SeaWolves starting pitcher Jon Kibler, a Baltimore native, was the hard-luck loser. Like Arrieta, he also tossed a complete game, allowing four runs (two earned) and five hits in seven innings.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 4, Kinston Indians 3 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Brandon Waring was 2-for-3 with a two-run home run, and the Keys edged Kinston, 4-3. The 23-year-old infielder is 5-for-11 with three home runs and seven RBIs in his past three games.

Frederick shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. also hit a two-run home run. Third baseman Tyler Henson and left fielder David Cash each scored a run for the Keys.

Starting pitcher Zach Britton (1-1) tossed six scoreless innings to finally earn his first victory in 2009. The 21-year-old left-hander struck out six batters and allowed four hits, lowering his ERA to 2.27 in seven starts this season. Britton ranks fifth in the Carolina League in ERA, and he is fourth in the league with 38 strikeouts.

Keys closer Luis Lebron allowed one hit in the final two innings to earn his fifth save of the season. The 24-year-old right-hander collected four strikeouts.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Saturday night's game between the Shorebirds and Power was postponed due to heavy rain in West Virginia. The two teams will play a doubleheader beginning at 2:05 p.m. on Sunday afternoon. Each game is scheduled for seven innings.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Unfortunately, since I'll be part of baltimoresun.com's coverage for the 134th Preakness throughout the entire day, there isn't much time for me to post anything other than the probable pitchers for today's games in the Orioles' minor league system.

Be sure to check back later tonight for the game recaps. Thanks for your cooperation.

By the way, I'm going with Pioneerof the Nile, Big Drama and Mine That Bird -- in that order -- for the big race. Don't believe the hype that surrounds Rachel Alexandra.

OK, so there's a reason why I'm writing about minor league baseball and not horse racing. Still, we'll see how good my picks are in about eight hours.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Louisville Bats (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Hernandez (2-1, 4.11 ERA)
Syracuse: Matt Maloney (3-1, 2.89 ERA)

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Erie SeaWolves (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Jake Arrieta (3-1, 3.42 ERA)
Erie: Jon Kibler (1-2, 4.60 ERA)

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Kinston Indians (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Zach Britton (0-1, 2.73 ERA)
Kinston: Ryan Morris (1-4, 7.27 ERA)

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at West Virginia Power (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (2-1, 1.08 ERA)
West Virginia: Gabriel Alvarado (1-2, 5.96 ERA)

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides completed a four-game sweep against the Syracuse Chiefs on Friday night, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox split a doubleheader with the Erie SeaWolves.

The Single-A Frederick Keys beat the Kinston Indians in extra innings, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds lost again to the West Virginia Power.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 4, Syracuse Chiefs 2 (Box score)

Recap: Catcher Matt Wieters hit his third home run in two nights to lead the Tides to a 4-2 victory over Syracuse. The 22-year-old prospect was 2-for-3 with a walk and two RBIs for Norfolk.

Tides second baseman Justin Turner also is playing well lately. The 24-year-old infielder was 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBIs in Norfolk's win. In his past 10 games, Turner is batting .375 with seven RBIs and six runs scored.

Norfolk starting pitcher Jason Berken surrendered a run for the first time since being recalled from the Baysox last month. The 25-year-old right-hander allowed one run and six hits in 4 2/3 innings against Syracuse, but he didn't factor in the decision.

Relief pitcher Andy Mitchell (3-1) earned the victory for the Tides after giving up one unearned run and one hit in 1 1/3 innings. Jim Miller tossed a scoreless inning to pick up his ninth save of the season for Norfolk.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Game 1 score: Erie SeaWolves 12, Bowie Baysox 5, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 1 recap: Starting pitcher John Mariotti (0-1) allowed six runs (five earned) and six hits in 4 1/3 innings, and the Baysox were routed in the first game of the doubleheader, 12-5, by the SeaWolves.

Bowie first baseman Brandon Snyder was 2-for-3 with a home run, three RBIs and two runs scored in the loss. Catcher Guillermo Rodriguez added a solo home run for the Baysox.

Relief pitcher Chad Thall allowed two runs and two hits in two-thirds of an inning for Bowie, and Ryan Rodriguez gave up four runs and six hits in two innings out of the bullpen.

Game 2 score: Bowie Baysox 5, Erie SeaWolves 4, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 2 recap: Designated hitter Joe Nowicki hit a two-run, walkoff home run with one out in the seventh inning to lift the Baysox to a 5-4 victory over Erie in the nightcap at Prince George's Stadium.

For the first time this season, Bowie closer Wilfrido Perez (1-0) allowed a run. In fact, the 24-year-old left-hander gave up a two-run home run to Erie left fielder Maxwell Leon with two outs in the top of the seventh. Still, Perez was credited with the victory after Nowicki's home run in the bottom of the inning.

Bowie second baseman Melvin Dorta was 1-for-1 with two runs scored after entering the game as a pinch runner for Miguel Abreu in the fifth inning. Snyder was 1-for-3 with an RBI for the Baysox.

Baysox starting pitcher Ryan Keefer gave up two runs and five hits in three innings.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 6, Kinston Indians 4, 10 innings (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Brandon Waring led the Keys to a 6-4 victory in 10 innings with two home runs and three RBIs. The 23-year-old infielder is batting .293 with 10 doubles, four home runs and 21 RBIs in 34 games for Frederick this season.

Keys center fielder Matt Angle and third baseman Tyler Henson each added two hits and an RBI. Second baseman Bobby Stevens and catcher Billy Killian also had two hits each for the Frederick, which won for the sixth time in the past seven games.

Starting pitcher Pedro Beato gave up three runs and six hits in six innings for the Keys. Despite a blown save, Frederick relief pitcher Brian Parker (2-0) earned the victory after allowing one run and two hits in two innings. Brett Bordes recorded the final out to record his first save of the season for Frederick.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: West Virginia Power 5, Delmarva Shorebirds 4 (Box score)

Recap: With one run already scored and the tying run at third base, the Shorebirds came up short in a 5-4 loss to West Virginia.

Delmarva second baseman LJ Hoes was 3-for-4 with a double and a run scored, and third baseman Tyler Kolodny collected two hits and an RBI.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Rick Zagone (3-3) suffered the loss after giving up five runs and nine hits in 3 2/3 innings. The 22-year-old left-hander collected three strikeouts and walked one batter in the game.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides wrap up their series on the road against the Syracuse Chiefs, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox face the Erie SeaWolves in a doubleheader at Prince George's Stadium.

The Single-A Frederick Keys travel to play the Kinston Indians, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds continue their series against the West Virginia Power.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Syracuse Chiefs (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: TBA
Syracuse: Craig Stammen (4-1, 1.85 ERA)

Notes

* Rich Hill was listed as the starting pitcher for the Tides in tonight's game, but all signs seem to indicate that he will start Saturday for the Orioles against the Kansas City Royals. So, that leaves Norfolk without a starter against Syracuse. I haven't heard who they will start in Hill's place, but it could be Jason Berken, who is scheduled to pitch tomorrow.

* It has been a tremendous beginning of the season for Stammen. The 25-year-old right-hander earned the victory in four out of his past five starts after losing his first game on April 13. Stammen has allowed seven runs and 27 hits in 34 innings for the Chiefs in 2009. In his last start, Stammen gave up four hits in six scoreless innings against the Indianapolis Indians on May 10.

* After winning their past three games, the Tides continue to hold first place in the International League South Division with a 21-12 record. Norfolk is 1 1/2 games ahead of the Durham Bulls (20-14). Syracuse is in fourth place in the North Division with a 16-16 record. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (23-10) continue to lead the division, 6 1/2 games ahead of the Chiefs.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Erie SeaWolves (5:35 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Bowie: John Mariotti (0-0, 7.20 ERA)
Erie: Jonah Nickerson (1-2, 7:04 ERA)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Bowie: Ryan Keefer (0-1, 7.43 ERA)
Erie: Ramon Garcia (1-0, 4.96 ERA)

Notes

* In his first start after being called up from Frederick, Mariotti gave up four runs and six hits in five innings against the SeaWolves on May 9. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and issued four walks in Bowie's 7-5 loss. Mariotti was 1-2 with a 4.37 ERA in seven games (two starts) for the Keys before his promotion.

* For the most part, Nickerson struggled in his first six starts this season, and the Baysox played a big role. The 24-year-old right-hander is scheduled to make his fourth start against Bowie tonight, and he has also faced the Altoona Curve three times. Nickerson hasn't pitched against any other teams so far this season. He is 1-1 with a 7.80 ERA in three starts against the Baysox.

* Keefer is expected to make his second spot start for the Baysox against Erie in the past week. The 27-year-old right-hander allowed five runs and five hits in three innings during Bowie's 6-5 loss to the SeaWolves. Overall, Keefer has given up 11 runs and 12 hits in 13 1/3 innings for the Baysox in 10 appearances in 2009.

* Garcia will also be filling in as a starter during the second game of the doubleheader. The 24-year-old left-hander earned his first save of the season after giving up one run and two hits in 1 1/3 innings against the Reading Phillies on May 11. Garcia has a 9.00 ERA in two appearances against the Baysox so far this season.

* The Baysox are 14-17 and in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division. Erie (21-11) is in second place in the division. The Akron Aeros (24-7) are in first place, leading the SeaWolves by 3 1/2 games and Bowie by 10 games.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Kinston Indians (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Pedro Beato (1-3, 4.85 ERA)
Kinston: Jonathan Holt (1-1, 3.52 ERA)

Notes

* Beato allowed three runs and seven hits in five innings against the Wilmington Blue Rocks during his last start on May 9. The 22-year-old right-hander walked two batters and collected two strikeouts, but didn't factor in the decision during the Keys' 7-6 win. Beato's only victory so far this season was against the Potomac Nationals on April 26. He gave up four runs (three earned) and five hits in five innings during Frederick's 13-7 win.

* After 11 relief appearances for Kinston, it is expected that Holt will make his first start tonight against the Keys. The 23-year-old right-hander allowed four runs (three earned) and four hits in four innings against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans during his last game on May 9. Overall, Holt has given up 12 runs (nine earned) and 18 hits in 23 innings this season.

* The Keys remain in last place in the Carolina League Northern Division with a 15-19 record. Frederick is 6 1/2 games behind the division-leading Lynchburg Hillcats (21-12). Kinston (17-17) is in second place in the Southern Division. The Indians trail the Salem Red Sox (18-16) by one game in the division.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at West Virginia Power (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Rick Zagone (3-2, 1.54 ERA)
West Virginia: Kyle McPherson (1-1, 7.71 ERA)

Notes

* Zagone leads the Shorebirds with 33 strikeouts in 35 innings so far this season, and he is second on the team with a 1.54 ERA -- trailing Cole McCurry (1.08). Zagone pitched 7 1/3 scoreless innings after taking over in the completion of a suspended game against the Greensboro Grasshoppers on May 9. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out eight batters and only allowed two hits in Delmarva's 8-0 victory.

* McPherson allowed five runs and four hits in one inning against the Shorebirds on May 6. The 21-year-old right-hander is scheduled to make his second start of the season for West Virginia in tonight's game. He also has five relief appearances for the Power in 2009. McPherson gave up six runs and seven hits in 3 1/3 innings against the Hagerstown Suns in the second game of a doubleheader on May 10.

* Despite three straight losses, the Shorebirds are still in first place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division with a 17-13 record. West Virginia (10-23) is in last place in the division, trailing Delmarva by 8 1/2 games in the division.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides routed the Syracuse Chiefs, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox beat the Erie SeaWolves.

The Single-A Frederick Keys outlasted the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, but the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds were beaten by the West Virginia Power.

Before Thursday's game, the Baysox placed relief pitcher Jim Hoey on the 7-day disabled list, retroactive to May 12, with right shoulder soreness. In order to fill his roster spot, Ryan Ouellette was promoted from Frederick. Jake Stevens replaced Ouellette with the Keys.

The Baysox also announced Thursday that they will be playing a doubleheader on the road against the Trenton Thunder on Tuesday, June 2. The extra game, which will begin at 6:05 p.m., is being played in order to make up the rainout between the two teams on May 5 in Bowie.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 12, Syracuse Chiefs 3 (Box score)

Recap: Catcher Matt Wieters was 0-for-12 in his past three games before hitting two home runs in the Tides' 12-3 win over Syracuse.

The 22-year-old prospect had four RBIs and three runs scored in the victory. Wieters is now batting .270 with three home runs and 16 RBIs in 28 games for Norfolk.

Third baseman Scott Moore added a three-run home run for the Tides, but the 25-year-old infielder left in the ninth inning after he apparently hurt his wrist or hand. No word on the extent of the injury at this time.

Norfolk second baseman Justin Turner collected three hits, two runs scored and an RBI. Jolbert Cabrera and Robby Hammock each added two hits for the Tides.

Starting pitcher Chris Waters (3-2) allowed three runs in the first inning, but he recovered to retire 21 of the final 24 batters he faced. Overall, the 28-year-old left-hander gave up three runs and four hits in seven innings. Waters struck out six batters and issued two walks.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

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

Recap: Starting pitcher Sean Gleason (1-3) gave up one run and six hits in five innings to earn his first victory of the season for the Baysox, who snapped Erie's six-game winning streak with a 6-1 victory at Prince George's Stadium.

Right fielder Joe Nowicki was 2-for-4 with a home run and three RBIs for the Baysox, while catcher Guillermo Rodriguez was 2-for-3 with a home run and two RBIs.

Bowie left fielder Jonathan Tucker, shortstop Melvin Dorta and third baseman Mike Costanzo each had two hits in the game.

Ouellette, who was making his Double-A debut, didn't allow a run in 2 1/3 innings for the Baysox. Closer Wilfrido Perez tosed 1 2/3 scoreless innings to pick up his sixth save of the season for Bowie.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 7, Myrtle Beach Pelicans 6, 11 innings (Box score)

Recap: Shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. hit a walkoff home run to lead off the 11th inning, giving the Keys a 7-6 victory over Myrtle Beach. The 22-year-old infielder was 2-for-5 with three RBIs for Frederick.

Keys first baseman Brandon Waring collected two RBIs, and center fielder Matt Angle added two hits and an RBI. Second baseman Bobby Stevens, right fielder Billy Rowell and catcher Caleb Joseph had two hits each for Frederick.

Brian Matusz didn't factor in the decision for the Keys after allowing one run and four hits in 5 2/3 innings. The 22-year-old left-hander collected six strikeouts and walked four batters in the game. Relief pitcher Jake Stevens (1-0) tossed one scoreless inning to pick up the victory for Frederick.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: West Virginia Power 14, Delmarva Shorebirds 4 (Box score)

Recap: Nathan Moreau (0-1) gave up seven runs (six earned) and seven hits in 2 1/3 innings, and the Shorebirds suffered a 14-4 loss to West Virginia.

Delmarva third baseman Tyler Kolodny hit his third home run of the season, and designated hitter Elvin Polanco added an RBI double.

The Shorebirds committed four errors in the game, including two by second baseman LJ Hoes. Delmarva, however, showed some defensive prowess by throwing out three different runners at second base. Each outfielder -- Ronnie Welty, Xavier Avery and Kyle Hudson -- picked up an assist.

Delmarva's bullpen allowed seven runs (five earned), five hits and seven walks in 5 2/3 innings. Brent Allar surrendered three runs, three hits and four walks in 2 1/3 innings, while Colin Allen gave up two runs, one hit and three walks in 2 1/3 innings. Brandon Cooney allowed two unearned runs and one hit in one inning for the Shorebirds.

The 14 runs scored by West Virginia were the most allowed in a single game by Delmarva so far this season.

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

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides play the Syracuse Chiefs on the road, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox return to Prince George's Stadium to face the Erie SeaWolves.

The Single-A Frederick Keys conclude their homestand with an early game against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds travel to play the West Virginia Power.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Syracuse Chiefs (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Waters (2-2, 5.28 ERA)
Syracuse: Michael O'Connor (1-2, 3.68 ERA)

Notes

* In his last start, Waters didn't factor in the decision after allowing one run and three hits in seven innings against the Buffalo Bisons on May 8. The 28-year-old left-hander threw 89 pitches (61 strikes) in the Tides' 4-1 loss. Overall, Waters has given up 19 runs (18 earned) and 30 hits in 30 2/3 innings during six starts for Norfolk in 2009.

* O'Connor, who graduated from Mount St. Joseph, is 1-2 with a 3.68 ERA since being promoted from the Double-A Harrisburg Senators. The 28-year-old left-hander was 0-1 with a 2.45 ERA in three starts for Harrisburg before being called up to the Chiefs. O'Connor allowed three runs and eight hits in 3 1/3 innings during his last start against the Indianapolis Indians on May 9.

* With last night's 5-3 victory, the Tides (20-12) maintained a 1 1/2-game lead over the Durham Bulls (19-14) in the International League South Division. Syracuse dropped to 16-15 this season, and the Chiefs currently trail the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (23-10) by six games in the North Division. Syracuse is in fourth place in the division.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Erie SeaWolves (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Sean Gleason (0-3, 8.84 ERA)
Erie: TBA

Notes

* Gleason allowed four runs and nine hits in 6 1/3 innings against the SeaWolves in his last start on May 8. The 23-year-old right-hander collected one strikeout and walked two batters in Bowie's 4-3 loss. In six games (five starts) between Frederick and Bowie so far this season, Gleason is 0-4 with an 8.28 ERA in 25 innings.

* The Baysox (13-17) dropped to 10 games behind the Akron Aeros (23-7) in the Eastern League Southern Division after yesterday's loss. Erie has won six consecutive games to improve their record to 21-10 this season. The SeaWolves trail Akron by 2 1/2 games in the division.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Myrtle Beach Pelicans (11 a.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Brian Matusz (2-2, 3.18 ERA)
Myrtle Beach: Richard Sullivan (0-1, 5.54 ERA)

Notes

* What can Matusz do for an encore? The 22-year-old left-hander struck out a career-high 13 batters and only issued one walk in seven innings during the Keys' 3-0 loss to the Wilmington Blue Rocks on May 8. Matusz allowed two runs (one earned) and six hits in the game. After six starts, Matusz leads the Carolina League with 45 strikeouts in 2009.

* Sullivan is scheduled to make his third start of the season for the Pelicans. The 22-year-old left-hander was 4-1 with a 3.72 ERA in five starts for the Single-A Rome Braves in the South Atlantic League before being promoted to Myrtle Beach earlier this month. Sullivan allowed four runs and seven hits in six innings against the Kinston Indians on May 9.

* Frederick (14-19) remains in last place in the Carolina League Northern Division after last night's 2-1 loss to Myrtle Beach. The Keys are 6 1/2 games behind the two division leaders -- Lynchburg Hillcats and Potomac Nationals -- who are both 20-12 so far this season. The Pelicans (11-22) are six games behind the Kinston Indians and Salem Red Sox in the Southern Division. Kinston and Salem are both 17-16 in 2009.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at West Virginia Power (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Nathan Moreau (0-0, 3.00 ERA)
West Virginia: Rudy Owens (3-1, 3.38 ERA)

Notes

* Moreau pitched well in his season debut against the Power on May 8 at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium. The 22-year-old left-hander gave up one run and two hits in three innings, and the Shorebirds cruised to a 7-1 victory. Moreau was 1-2 with a 5.70 ERA in 10 games (seven starts) for the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds last season after the Orioles selected him in the 11th round of the 2008 MLB draft.

* Owens earned the victory against the Hagerstown Suns in his last start on May 9. The 21-year-old left-hander allowed one run and four hits in six innings. Owens struck out six batters and didn't allow any walks in West Virginia's 10-4 win. He has given up two earned runs or less in five out of six starts this season.

* The Shorebirds (17-12) are in a virtual tie with the Lakewood BlueClaws (18-13) in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. Delmarva has lost back-to-back games, while the BlueClaws have a three-game winning streak. West Virginia (9-23) is in last place in the division, trailing the two teams by 9 1/2 games.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides defeated the Syracuse Chiefs, but the Double-A Bowie Baysox and Single-A Frederick Keys each lost by one run.

In case you missed it -- because it happened after the end of Wednesday night's game -- the Orioles promoted outfielder Nolan Reimold from Norfolk and optioned relief pitcher Bob McCrory to the Tides.

Reimold was hitting .394 with nine home runs and 27 RBIs in 31 games for the Tides. McCrory, who allowed four runs in 1 2/3 innings against the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday night, had a 9.00 ERA in three games during his time with the Orioles.

Honestly, I thought the Orioles would make the move to bring up Joey Gathright, who was recently acquired from the Chicago Cubs, or Oscar Salazar before calling up Reimold.

Still, this move shows that Andy MacPhail and the Orioles are committed to taking a deep look at their highly regarded prospects. It remains to be seen how much Reimold plays during his stint in the major leagues, but I'm sure Orioles fans hope he receives significant playing time.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 5, Syracuse Chiefs 3 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Jeff Fiorentino and third baseman Scott Moore each hit a solo home run to power the Tides to a 5-3 victory over Syracuse.

Fiorentino finished 2-for-4 in the win, which raised his batting average to .367 (11-for-30) in eight games since being promoted from Bowie. Moore's home run was his sixth this season.

Gathright was 3-for-5 with two runs scored, and center fielder Justin Christian added two hits and a run scored. Salazar was 1-for-3 with two RBIs for the Tides.

Tides starting pitcher David Pauley gave up three runs and nine hits in 6 2/3 innings, but he didn't factor in the decision.

Relief pitcher Alberto Castillo (1-0) earned the victory for Norfolk after retiring the only batter he faced. Despite allowing two hits and a walk, Jim Miller picked up his eighth save of the season for the Tides after tossing one scoreless inning.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Akron Aeros 2, Bowie Baysox 1 (Box score)

Recap: Troy Patton (3-1) only gave up two runs and five hits in six innings, but he was dealt his first loss of the season as the Baysox fell, 2-1, to Akron. The 23-year-old left-hander collected two strikeouts and issued two walks in the game.

First baseman Brandon Snyder led Bowie with two hits, including an RBI double in the seventh inning. The 22-year-old infielder is batting .374 with 12 doubles, four home runs and 22 RBIs in 29 games for the Baysox this season.

Baysox designated hitter Paco Figueroa and third baseman Melvin Dorta each added a double. Second baseman Miguel Abreu was 1-for-3 with two stolen bases for Bowie.

Relief pitcher Josh Perrault tossed two scoreless innings for the Baysox.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Myrtle Beach Pelicans 2, Frederick Keys 1 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Nathan Nery (0-1) only allowed one unearned run and five hits in six innings, but the Keys suffered a 2-1 loss to Myrtle Beach at Harry Grove Stadium. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out six batters and issued one walk.

Frederick center fielder Matt Angle seems to be heating up at the plate. The 23-year-old outfielder collected four out of the Keys' five hits in the game, including a double in the third inning. Angle is hitting .394 (13-for-33) with five stolen bases and five runs scored in his past 10 games, which raised his batting average to .260 overall in 25 games this season.

Left fielder Kraig Binick had an RBI for the Keys, and shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. scored the team's only run.

Relief pitcher Brian Parker gave up one run and struck out five hitters in two innings for Frederick, while Cliff Flagello collected three strikeouts in one scoreless inning.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (8)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides face the Syracuse Chiefs tonight, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox conclude their three-game series against the Akron Aeros.

The Single-A Frederick Keys play the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds are idle.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Syracuse Chiefs (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Pauley (2-3, 4.85 ERA)
Syracuse: Marco Estrada (1-0, 3.49 ERA)

Notes

* It has been a struggle for Pauley to be consistent so far this season. In his last start, the 25-year-old right-hander earned the victory after allowing three runs and seven hits in five innings against the Columbus Clippers on May 7. Pauley gave up five runs and 10 hits in three innings during the Tides' 5-1 loss to the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees on May 2.

* Estrada is scheduled to make his seventh start of the season in Wednesday's game against the Tides. The 25-year-old right-hander hasn't pitched more than five innings in a game so far in 2009, and he has only been involved in the decision during one start -- a victory over the Buffalo Bisons on April 27. Estrada gave up two runs and five hits in 4 2/3 innings against the Indianapolis Indians in his last start on May 8.

* After last night's victory over Syracuse, the Tides (19-12) hold a 1 1/2-game lead over the Durham Bulls (18-14) in the International League South Division. The Chiefs are in fourth place in the North Division with a 16-14 record. They are six games behind the division-leading Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (23-9), who have lost four straight games.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Akron Aeros (10:35 a.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Troy Patton (3-0, 0.95 ERA)
Akron: Josh Tomlin (3-1, 4.44 ERA)

Notes

* Patton leads the Eastern League with a 0.95 ERA after five starts in 2009. The 23-year-old left-hander has given up four runs (three earned) and 16 hits in 28 1/3 innings for the Baysox. In his last start, Patton allowed two hits in six scoreless innings against the Trenton Thunder in the first game of a doubleheader on May 7. He struck out six batters and issued two walks in Bowie's 6-0 victory.

* In two starts against the Baysox so far this season, Tomlin is 1-1 with a 1.64 ERA in 11 innings. The 24-year-old right-hander gave up one run and three hits in five innings in Akron on April 10, and he allowed one run and four hits in six innings on April 17 at Prince George's Stadium. Tomlin suffered the loss in the first start, but he picked up the victory in the second game.

* The Baysox gained two games on Akron with victories in the past two nights. Bowie is currently in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division with a 13-16 record, while the Aeros are nine games ahead of them with a 22-7 record. The Erie SeaWolves (20-10) are in second place in the division, and the Reading Phillies (17-12) are in third.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Myrtle Beach Pelicans (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Nathan Nery (0-0, 6.00 ERA)
Myrtle Beach: Erik Cordier (0-1, 2.25 ERA)

Notes

* Nery is expected to make his second start for Frederick after being recalled from Delmarva earlier this month. The 23-year-old left-hander gave up four runs and nine hits in six innings during his debut with the Keys against the Winston-Salem Dash on May 7. Nery was 3-0 with a 1.17 ERA in five games (four starts) for the Shorebirds before his promotion.

* In his last start, Cordier tossed five scoreless innings, allowing two hits, against the Kinston Indians on May 8. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and issued two walks in the Pelicans' 9-3 loss. Cordier left the game with a 2-0 lead, but the bullpen was unable to preserve the win.

* Frederick is inching closer to the other teams in the Carolina League Northern Division. The Keys have won four straight games, which improves their record to 14-18. Frederick is still in last place in the division, but the Wilmington Blue Rocks (14-17) are only 1/2-game in front of the Keys. The Lynchburg Hillcats (20-11) continue to lead the division. Myrtle Beach is in last place in the Southern Division with a 10-22 record. The Salem Red Sox and Kinston Indians share the division lead. Both teams are seven games ahead of the Pelicans with a 17-15 record.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides defeated the Syracuse Chiefs, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox beat the Akron Aeros for the second consecutive day.

The Single-A Frederick Keys swept both games of a doubleheader against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds suffered a loss in the series finale against the Greensboro Grasshoppers.

Prior to Tuesday's action, the Tides added Joey Gathright to their roster.

In order to make room for the outfielder, who was recently acquired from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for Ryan Freel, third baseman Mike Costanzo was shifted to Bowie.

The Baysox also assigned outfielder Brian Conley to extended spring training so Costanzo could have a roster spot.

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Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 9, Syracuse Chiefs 1 (Box score)

Recap: An impressive all-around performance powered the Tides to a 9-1 victory over Syracuse.

Norfolk starting pitcher Chris Tillman (4-0) struck out 10 batters in six scoreless innings, and the offense pounded 16 hits in the one-sided win.

Tillman allowed five hits and issued two walks in the Tides' victory, lowering his ERA to 2.03 in six starts this season.

Tides left fielder Nolan Reimold was 3-for-5 with his ninth home run of the season -- a two-run shot against Chiefs starting pitcher Collin Balester in the second inning -- and two doubles. The 25-year-old outfielder is batting .396 with 27 RBIs in 30 games for the Tides.

First baseman Oscar Salazar and catcher Robby Hammock also collected three hits each for the Tides, and second baseman Justin Turner added two hits and two RBIs.

Gathright made his debut for Norfolk, and he was 2-for-5 with an RBI and a run scored.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 7, Akron Aeros 4 (Box score)

Recap: Although Troy Patton didn't start as originally expected, the Baysox still managed to knock off previously unbeaten Hector Rondon (5-1) and Akron, 7-4.

Bowie started Bobby Livingston (3-1) in place of Patton, who will start Wednesday's series finale against the Aeros. Livingston allowed two runs and six hits in 5 1/3 innings for the Baysox.

Like Patton for the Baysox, Rondon also didn't start for Akron as planned. Left-hander Ryan Edell tossed three scoreless innings for the Aeros before Rondon entered in the fourth. Bowie collected three runs (two earned) and six hits in two innings against Rondon, who was moved to the bullpen before Tuesday's game.

Baysox left fielder Jonathan Tucker and right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion each collected three hits in the game. Tucker had two stolen bases, two RBIs and a run scored, while Concepcion had two doubles, an RBI and three runs scored.

Catcher Adam Donachie had a pair of doubles and two RBIs for Bowie, and first baseman Brandon Snyder added two hits and an RBI.

Frederick Keys (A)

Game 1 score: Frederick Keys 1, Myrtle Beach Pelicans 0, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 1 recap: If you were looking for a lot of offense, it wasn't a good idea to watch the first game of the doubleheader between the Keys and Pelicans.

Frederick third baseman Tyler Henson hit an RBI double in the bottom of the fifth inning for the only run of the game. It was also the Keys' only hit as they defeated Myrtle Beach, 1-0, at Harry Grove Stadium.

The Pelicans managed only two hits against Keys starting pitcher Tim Bascom (3-3), who tossed 6 1/3 scoreless innings to earn the victory. The 24-year-old right-hander allowed one walk and didn't collect any strikeouts.

Frederick relief pitcher Luis Lebron recorded the final two outs to pick up his fourth save of the season. The 24-year-old right-hander allowed three runs in 1/3 of an inning against the Potomac Nationals on May 1, but he hasn't given up any runs in his other 11 appearances this season.

The first game lasted 1 hour and 27 minutes, which is the shortest game in franchise history, according to the Keys.

Game 2 score: Frederick Keys 5, Myrtle Beach Pelicans 4, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 2 recap: Center fielder Matt Angle was 3-for-3 with a double and a run scored to lead the Keys to a 5-4 win over Myrtle Beach in the nightcap.

Henson collected two more RBIs in the second game, and Frederick designated hitter Caleb Joseph was 2-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored.

Keys starting pitcher Chris Salberg gave up three runs (two earned) and five hits in four innings. Relief pitcher Brett Bordes (2-1) allowed one hit in two scoreless innings to earn the victory for Frederick, and Ryan Ouellette picked up his first save of the season after surrendering one unearned run in the seventh.

Second baseman Bobby Stevens and left fielder Kraig Binick each added an RBI for the Keys, who won their fourth straight game.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Greensboro Grasshoppers 10, Delmarva Shorebirds 5 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Ryan O'Shea (2-2) allowed six runs (five earned) and eight hits in 3 2/3 innings, and the Shorebirds were never able to recover from the early deficit in a 10-5 loss to Greensboro.

Delmarva first baseman Joe Mahoney was 1-for-5 with his first home run of the season, a three-run shot in the eighth inning, and two runs scored.

Mahoney also grabbed his 11th stolen base, which ties him for the team lead with outfielder Kyle Hudson. Mahoney has not been caught stealing so far in 2009 after having only two stolen bases in 95 games for the Shorebirds last season.

Shortstop Greg Miclat was 2-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored. Miclat replaced Jedidiah Stephen, who left the game with an apparent injury to his neck or shoulder after being hit by a pitch in the bottom of the first inning.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides begin a four-game series against the Syracuse Chiefs, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox face the Akron Aeros.

The Single-A Frederick Keys are scheduled to play a doubleheader against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans.

The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds started the final game of their homestand against the Greensboro Grasshoppers at 10:35 a.m.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Syracuse Chiefs (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Tillman (3-0, 2.52 ERA)
Syracuse: Collin Balester (1-4, 4.94 ERA)

Notes

* After two no-decisions to begin the season, Tillman earned a win in his past three starts for the Tides. The 21-year-old right-hander gave up two runs and seven hits in six innings against the Columbus Clippers in his last start in the first game of a doubleheader on May 7. Overall, Tillman has collected 27 strikeouts in 25 innings, and he has walked 10 batters.

* Balester hasn't pitched well to begin the 2009 season. Opponents are batting .313 in six starts against him. The 22-year-old right-hander suffered back-to-back losses in his past two starts, and he has allowed 17 runs and 40 hits in 31 innings so far this year. Balester gave up two runs and six hits in 5 1/3 innings against the Gwinnett Braves in his last start on May 7.

* After splitting a four-game series with the bottom-feeding Buffalo Bisons (7-22), the Tides look to hold onto their 1/2-game lead in the International League South Division. Norfolk is 18-12 so far this season, while the Durham Bulls are 18-13. Syracuse (16-13) is tied for third place in the North Division with the Rochester Red Wings. The Pawtucket Red Sox are in second place with an 18-12 record, and the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (23-8) lead the division.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Akron Aeros (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Troy Patton (3-0, 0.95 ERA)
Akron: Hector Rondon (5-0, 1.23 ERA)

Notes

* Patton leads the Eastern League with a 0.95 ERA after five starts in 2009. The 23-year-old left-hander has given up four runs (three earned) and 16 hits in 28 1/3 innings for the Baysox. In his last start, Patton allowed two hits in six scoreless innings against the Trenton Thunder in the first game of a doubleheader on May 7. He struck out six batters and issued two walks in Bowie's 6-0 victory.

* While Patton has a slightly better ERA, Rondon is tied with New Hampshire Fisher Cats left-hander Marc Rzepczynski for the most victories in the Eastern League (five). Rondon is also third in the league with a 1.23 ERA in five starts. The 21-year-old right-hander hasn't allowed more than one run in each of his five starts. He defeated the Baysox on April 8 after giving up one run and five hits in 5 2/3 innings.

* The Baysox gained a game on Akron in the Eastern League Southern Division with last night's victory. Bowie (12-16) currently sits in fourth place in the division, 10 games behind the Aeros (22-6). The Erie SeaWolves (19-10) are 3 1/2 games behind Akron, while the Reading Phillies (17-11) are five games back.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Myrtle Beach Pelicans (5 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Frederick: Tim Bascom (2-3, 3.63 ERA)
Myrtle Beach: Edgar Osuna (2-2, 4.55 ERA)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Frederick: TBA
Myrtle Beach: TBA

Notes

* In six games (five starts) this season, Bascom has allowed 23 runs and 33 hits in 22 1/3 innings. Only nine of the runs are earned, however, thanks to poor defense behind him. The 24-year-old right-hander allowed five runs (one earned) and five hits in two innings against the Winston-Salem Dash in his last start on May 7 at Harry Grove Stadium.

* Osuna gave up three runs and five hits in three innings against the Lynchburg Hillcats on May 6. He didn't factor in the decision in the Pelicans' 6-5 loss, which was completed on the following day after rain forced the game to be suspended. The 21-year-old left-hander suffered the loss against Frederick on April 14 after allowing five runs and 10 hits in 3 1/3 innings.

* At the time of this entry, neither team had announced a starting pitcher for the second game of the doubleheader. Before last night's rainout, Frederick's listed pitcher for tonight's game was Nathan Nery, while the Pelicans were expected to start Jeffrey Locke. Those two pitchers could start the second game, or the teams might choose to use a relief pitcher in a spot start.

* With two straight victories over the Wilmington Blue Rocks, the Keys (12-18) are closer to getting out of last place in the Carolina League Northern Division. Frederick is now one game behind the Blue Rocks (13-17), but the Keys trail the Potomac Nationals and Lynchburg Hillcats -- both teams are 19-11 -- by seven games in the division. Myrtle Beach is in last place in the Southern Division with a 10-20 record. The Pelicans trail the Kinston Indians (17-14) by 6 1/2 games in the division.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

The Shorebirds are currently losing, 6-0, in the fourth inning against Greensboro at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury. It is Delmarva's final game of the eight-game homestand. The Shorebirds are idle tomorrow, and they start an eight-game road trip against the West Virginia Power on Thursday at 7:05 p.m. Come back to O's on Deck for the complete recap later.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

I'm a big fan of contests that facilitate fan involvement, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox definitely have a winner in their most recent promotional idea.

The Baysox hid a golden Matt Wieters bobblehead somewhere in Prince George's County, and they are asking fans to return it to the stadium.

Basically, you'll need to go to Bowie's Web site and look for hidden clues about the bobblehead's location. The Baysox will add an additional clue to the list on every Tuesday and Friday until the bobblehead is safely returned to Prince George's Stadium. The first clue was released on the Web site today, so start searching.

If you're the lucky person who finds the bobblehead, you'll receive several prizes which focus on the Orioles' top prospect.

The package includes an autographed baseball by Wieters, a bobblehead featuring the catcher's likeness, a Wieters T-shirt and the chance to throw out the first pitch before an upcoming Baysox game at the ballpark.

It doesn't cost anything to enter the contest -- which makes it worth the time and effort to search all over Prince George's County -- and it's open to everyone.

In order to win, you must take the golden Wieters bobblehead to the Baysox front office at Prince George's Stadium. If you find the hidden item, immediately call the Baysox at 301-805-6000 to notify them of your discovery.

For a complete list of contest rules, check out this page on Bowie's Web site.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

Despite another big night by Oscar Salazar, the Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost to the Buffalo Bisons.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox beat the first-place Akron Aeros, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds were handed a one-run loss by the Greensboro Grasshoppers.

The game between the Single-A Frederick Keys and Myrtle Beach Pelicans was postponed until tomorrow due to inclement weather.

Earlier today, the Keys announced that second baseman Ryan Adams was placed on the disabled list, retroactive to May 9, with a groin injury. It's the second trip to the DL for Adams so far this season, who is batting .321 with three RBIs in eight games for Frederick.

In order to replace Adams on the roster, the Keys activated shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. from the disabled list. Florimon is hitting .280 with two home runs and 10 RBIs in 20 games for the Keys this season, but was on the DL since May 3 with a hamstring injury.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Buffalo Bisons 5, Norfolk Tides 3 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Oscar Salazar was 2-for-4 with a two-run home run, but it wasn't enough as the Tides suffered a 5-3 loss to Buffalo. It was Salazar's sixth home run of the season, and he is now batting .378 with 27 RBIs.

Norfolk left fielder Nolan Reimold and right fielder Jolbert Cabrera each collected two hits in the loss. Shortstop Carlos Rojas added an RBI for the Tides.

Starting pitcher David Hernandez gave up three runs (two earned) and seven hits in six innings for Norfolk. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and issued two walks in the game.

Tides relief pitcher Andy Mitchell (2-1) was handed the loss after giving up a two-run walkoff home run to Bisons right fielder Jesus Feliciano with two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

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

Recap: Starting pitcher Jake Arrieta (3-1) allowed one run and four hits in five innings, and the Baysox held off Akron for a 3-1 victory. The 23-year-old right-hander collected six strikeouts and walked two batters.

Bowie left fielder Jonathan Tucker led the offense by going 2-for-2 with an RBI and a run scored. Center fielder Dave Krynzel and shortstop Melvin Dorta each added an RBI for the Baysox, who snapped a three-game losing streak.

Baysox closer Wilfrido Perez pitched a scoreless inning to earn his fifth save of the season. The 24-year-old left-hander hasn't allowed any runs in 12 appearances (13 innings) this season.

Frederick Keys (A)

Tonight's game between the Keys and Myrtle Beach was postponed due to rain. The two teams will play a doubleheader on Tuesday at Harry Grove Stadium. The first matchup will start at 5 p.m., and the gates will open at 4 p.m. Each game is scheduled for seven innings.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Greensboro Grasshoppers 2, Delmarva Shorebirds 1 (Box score)

Recap: Shorebirds starting pitcher Cole McCurry (2-1) only allowed two unearned runs and five hits in 5 2/3 innings, but Delmarva lost to Greensboro, 2-1.

The 23-year-old left-hander lowered his ERA to 1.08, and he struck out five batters in the game. For the season, McCurry has given up four earned runs in 33 1/3 innings, and he has 32 strikeouts and only seven walks allowed.

Designated hitter Elvin Polanco led the Shorebirds with two hits and a run scored. Delmarva second baseman LJ Hoes was 1-for-4 with an RBI, but he also committed a fielding error in the game.

Delmarva relief pitcher Pat Egan only gave up one hit in 3 1/3 innings. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out three hitters and didn't allow any walks.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides conclude their four-game series against the Buffalo Bisons, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox continue their road trip against the Akron Aeros.

The Single-A Frederick Keys welcome the Myrtle Beach Pelicans to Harry Grove Stadium, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds continue their series against the Greensboro Grasshoppers.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Buffalo Bisons (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Hernandez (2-1, 4.38 ERA)
Buffalo: Tim Redding (0-0, 1.50 ERA)

Notes

* In his last start, Hernandez earned the victory against the Columbus Clippers in the second game of a doubleheader on May 5. The 23-year-old right-hander gave up two runs and three hits in five innings during the Tides' 5-2 win. Hernandez is tied for third in the International League with 35 strikeouts in 24 2/3 innings. He will celebrate his 24th birthday on Wednesday.

* Redding is working his way back to the major leagues after starting the season on the disabled list with a strained rotator cuff in his throwing shoulder. The 31-year-old right-hander pitched well in his first start for the Bisons on May 6 against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Redding limited Lehigh Valley to one run and six hits in six innings. He struck out five batters and issued one walk in Buffalo's 2-1 loss.

* The Tides (18-11) continue to hold a 1/2-game lead over the Durham Bulls (18-12) in the International League South Division. Norfolk is currently on a two-game winning streak after losing the first game of the series to the Bisons (6-22), who are in last place in the North Division. Buffalo is 16 games behind the division-leading Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (23-7).

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Akron Aeros (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Jake Arrieta (2-1, 3.80 ERA)
Akron: Erik Stiller (1-1, 4.60 ERA)

Notes

* Arrieta encountered his first rough outing of the season against the Trenton Thunder in his last start on May 6. The 23-year-old right-hander, who had not started in 10 days before that game due to several rainouts, allowed eight runs (five earned) and seven hits in 3 1/3 innings. Overall, Arrieta leads the Baysox with 26 strikeouts in 21 1/3 innings this season.

* So far this season, Stiller has appeared in nine games for the Aeros, including four against Bowie. The 24-year-old right-hander is 1-0 with a 4.70 ERA in those four meetings. Stiller suffered the loss in the second game of a doubleheader against the Altoona Curve in his last start on May 7 after giving up three runs (one earned) and one hit in two innings.

* The Baysox, who lost all three games to the Erie SeaWolves over the weekend, dropped to 11-16 this season. Bowie is in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division, trailing the first-place Akron Aeros (22-5) by 11 games.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Myrtle Beach Pelicans (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Tim Bascom (2-3, 3.63 ERA)
Myrtle Beach: Edgar Osuna (2-2, 4.55 ERA)

Notes

* In six games (five starts) this season, Bascom has allowed 23 runs and 33 hits in 22 1/3 innings. Only nine of the runs are earned, however, thanks to poor defense behind him. The 24-year-old right-hander allowed five runs (one earned) and five hits in two innings against the Winston-Salem Dash in his last start on May 7 at Harry Grove Stadium.

* Osuna gave up three runs and five hits in three innings against the Lynchburg Hillcats on May 6. He didn't factor in the decision in the Pelicans' 6-5 loss, which was completed on the following day after rain forced the game to be suspended. The 21-year-old left-hander suffered the loss against Frederick on April 14 after allowing five runs and 10 hits in 3 1/3 innings.

* With two straight victories over the Wilmington Blue Rocks, the Keys (12-18) are closer to getting out of last place in the Carolina League Northern Division. Frederick is now one game behind the Blue Rocks (13-17), but the Keys trail the Potomac Nationals and Lynchburg Hillcats -- both teams are 19-11 -- by seven games in the division. Myrtle Beach is in last place in the Southern Division with a 10-20 record. The Pelicans trail the Kinston Indians (17-14) by 6 1/2 games in the division.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Greensboro Grasshoppers (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (2-0, 1.30 ERA)
Greensboro: Johnny Dorn (3-1, 2.57 ERA)

Notes

* If you haven't read it yet, check out the article by The Baltimore Sun's Dan Connolly about McCurry. The 23-year-old left-hander has collected back-to-back victories in his past two starts, and he has only allowed four runs in 27 2/3 innings this season. McCurry struck out 27 hitters and only issued five walks in his first five starts in 2009. He gave up one run and four hits in six innings against the West Virginia Power during his last start on May 6.

* Against the Shorebirds on April 30, Dorn only allowed two runs and seven hits in seven innings. The 23-year-old right-hander collected four strikeouts and walked two batters in Greensboro's 7-3 victory over Delmarva. Dorn has also earned wins in back-to-back starts, so it should be an interesting pitching matchup at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium tonight.

* After four straight victories, the Shorebirds (17-10) have jumped out to a two-game lead over the Lakewood BlueClaws (16-13) in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. After losing two consecutive games to the Shorebirds, Greensboro has dropped into a three-way tie for third place with the Hickory Crawdads and the Kannapolis Intimidators. All three teams are 2 1/2 games behind Delmarva with a 16-14 record.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Double-A Bowie Baysox are scheduled to hold Superhero Night at Prince George's Stadium on Saturday, June 6.

The event will be highlighted by a musical performance from Milkshake, a band dedicated to entertaining children with rock music.

The pre-game concert is expected to begin at 5 p.m., and it will be performed on top of the third-base dugout. Gates will open for the event at 4:45 p.m.

Tickets are $10 each (age 3 and older), which includes a general admission seat for the baseball game between the Baysox and Erie SeaWolves at 7:05 p.m.

Also, there is an exclusive offer for Louie's Kids Club members who purchase $10 tickets through the special e-mail from the Baysox.

After the concert, all children who take advantage of the deal will be invited to participate in a meet-and-greet with superheroes near the lighthouse at the ballpark. Kids can be photographed with their favorite characters, as well as get autographs. Members of Louie's Kids Club can also enter a drawing for a special prize pack full of superhero items.

For more information on Louie's Kids Club, Superhero Night including Milkshake or upcoming Baysox games, visit the team's Web site.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides defeated the Buffalo Bisons, but the Double-A Bowie Baysox fell to the Erie SeaWolves for the third consecutive game.

The Single-A Frederick Keys put on a power display in their win over the Wilmington Blue Rocks, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds swept both games from the Greensboro Grasshoppers.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 3, Buffalo Bisons 1 (Box score)

Recap: Orioles pitcher Rich Hill (1-1) earned the victory for the Tides after allowing two hits in six scoreless innings against the Bisons.

The 29-year-old left-hander collected seven strikeouts and walked three batters in Norfolk's 3-1 win. Hill threw 60 of his 95 pitches for strikes, and he retired nine straight hitters at one point in the game.

Norfolk designated hitter Oscar Salazar was 2-for-4 with an RBI, and catcher Matt Wieters added a double, two walks and two runs scored. The Orioles' top prospect raised his batting average to .301 with the performance. Third baseman Mike Costanzo collected two hits for the Tides.

Tides relief pitcher Ross Wolf pitched two perfect innings, and Jim Miller earned his seventh save after giving up an unearned run in the ninth.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Erie SeaWolves 6, Bowie Baysox 5 (Box score)

Recap: Bowie's top four hitters were a combined 11-for-19 in the game, but it wasn't enough as Erie completed a three-game sweep with a 6-5 victory.

Center fielder Dave Krynzel was 3-for-4 with a solo home run and three runs scored for the Baysox, and designated hitter Paco Figueroa added three hits and two RBIs.

Bowie first baseman Brandon Snyder was 3-for-4 with an RBI, while third baseman Melvin Dorta was 2-for-5 with a triple and a run scored. Snyder is now batting .371 with four home runs and 20 RBIs in 26 games for the Baysox.

Right-hander Ryan Keefer (0-1) served as a spot starter for the Baysox. He allowed five runs and five hits -- including two home runs -- in three innings. Wilfrido Perez tossed another scoreless inning for Bowie, collecting three strikeouts.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 15, Wilmington Blue Rocks 9 (Box score)

Recap: Perhaps the shift to right field is paying off better than Orioles fans anticipated for Frederick's Billy Rowell.

The 20-year-old outfielder was 3-for-5 with two home runs and five RBIs in the Keys' 15-9 victory over Wilmington at Harry Grove Stadium. Rowell is now batting .303 with four home runs and 16 RBIs in 29 games for Frederick this season.

Although Rowell was one of the offensive leaders for the Keys in today's game, it was Frederick second baseman Bobby Stevens who stole the show.

The 22-year-old infielder was 5-for-5 with a double, two home runs, four RBIs and three runs scored. To put his performance into perspective, Stevens batted .213 with one home run and 12 RBIs in 49 games for the rookie-level Bluefield Orioles last season.

Keys third baseman Tyler Henson was 4-for-4 with three doubles, two RBIs and five runs scored, and catcher Caleb Joseph added a home run and three RBIs in the game.

Frederick starting pitcher Zach Britton had his first rough outing of the season. The 21-year-old left-hander gave up eight runs (four earned) and six hits in five innings. Keys relief pitcher Cliff Flagello (1-0) earned the win after allowing one unearned run and two hits in two innings.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Game 1 score: Delmarva Shorebirds 8, Greensboro Grasshoppers 0 (Box score)

Game 1 recap: The first game was continued with two outs in the top of the second inning, which was the point when rain forced the suspension last night at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

Shorebirds pitcher Rick Zagone (3-2) began the suspended game -- and finished it. The 22-year-old left-hander only allowed two hits in 7 2/3 scoreless innings as Delmarva cruised to an 8-0 victory over Greensboro. Zagone struck out eight batters and issued two walks in the game. He is now 3-2 with a 1.54 ERA in six appearances this season.

Left fielder Kyle Hudson was 2-for-4 with two RBIs for the Shorebirds, while right fielder Ronnie Welty also collected two RBIs. Delmarva center fielder Xavier Avery was 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored.

Delmarva first baseman Elvin Polanco and catcher Luis Bernardo each added three hits. Bernardo also scored three runs for the Shorebirds.

Game 2 score: Delmarva Shorebirds 4, Greensboro Grasshoppers 1 (Box score)

Game 2 recap: Catcher Dustin Black was 3-for-3 with two doubles and two RBIs, and Delmarva beat Greensboro, 4-1.

Second baseman Jedidiah Stephen and left fielder Kyle Hudson each added an RBI for the Shorebirds, who won their fourth straight game. Delmarva third baseman Tyler Kolodny was 2-for-3 with a double and a run scored.

Shorebirds relief pitcher Joe Esposito (1-0) earned the victory after tossing three scoreless innings. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and issued one walk. Brandon Cooney recorded the final four outs to pick up his fifth save of the season for Delmarva.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Buffalo Bisons (1:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Rich Hill (0-1, 2.45 ERA)
Buffalo: Nelson Figueroa (0-2, 2.57 ERA)

Notes

* Today will be Hill's third rehab start with the Tides and fourth overall as he works his way back to the major leagues. The 29-year-old left-hander pitched four scoreless innings in his last game against the Columbus Clippers on May 5. Hill only allowed two hits, but he also walked five batters in Norfolk's 5-0 victory.

* Figueroa has lost back-to-back games for Buffalo since returning to the minor leagues. The 34-year-old right-hander also suffered a loss in a spot start for the New York Mets on April 19 against the Milwaukee Brewers. Figueroa allowed three runs and five hits in six innings, and the Mets lost, 4-2.

* The Tides are still in first place in the International League South Division with a 17-11 record. Norfolk holds a 1/2-game lead over the Durham Bulls (17-12) in the division. The Bisons (6-21) are 16 games behind the first-place Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (23-6) in the North Division. Buffalo is in last place in the six-team division, trailing the fifth-place Lehigh Valley IronPigs (13-15) by 6 1/2 games.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Erie SeaWolves (1:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: TBA
Erie: Jonah Nickerson (0-2, 7.66 ERA)

Notes

* Due to the high number of rainouts recently, the Baysox have yet to announce a starting pitcher for today's game in Erie. Bowie will likely turn to a relief pitcher to make a spot start, with Fredy Deza, Ryan Keefer or Ryan Rodriguez as the most likely candidate.

* Nickerson is 0-1 with a 10.00 ERA in two starts against the Baysox in 2009. The 24-year-old right-hander is scheduled to make his sixth start so far this season, and he hasn't faced anyone except Bowie and the Altoona Curve. Nickerson gave up three runs and six hits in six innings against the Curve in his last start on May 3.

* After last night's loss, the Baysox dropped to 11-15 this season. Bowie is in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division, trailing the Akron Aeros (21-5) by 10 games. The SeaWolves (17-10) are in second place in the division, 4 1/2 games behind Akron.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Wilmington Blue Rocks (2 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Zach Britton (0-1, 1.82 ERA)
Wilmington: Ray Liotta (1-2, 5.89 ERA)

Notes

* Britton has been very impressive in his first five starts for the Keys, but the 21-year-old left-hander is still searching for his first victory of the season. He allowed one unearned run and one hit in five innings against the Winston-Salem Dash in the first half of a doubleheader on May 5. Britton struck out seven batters and issued three walks in the Keys' 4-3 loss. He has struggled with his control a little bit -- 15 walks in 24 2/3 innings -- but he is second on the team behind Brian Matusz with 27 strikeouts.

* To answer everyone's first question -- according to his biography on the Blue Rocks' Web site, Liotta is a distant cousin of the actor with the same name. The 26-year-old left-hander is 1-2 with a 5.89 ERA in six appearances (five starts) this season. Liotta allowed four runs (two earned) and seven hits in 4 1/3 innings against the Potomac Nationals on May 5.

* With last night's victory, the Keys improved to 11-18 this season. Frederick remains eight games behind the Lynchburg Hillcats (19-10) in the Carolina League Northern Division. Wilmington (13-16) is in third place, trailing the division-leading Hillcats by six games.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Doubleheader vs. Greensboro Grasshoppers (2:05 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Colin Allen (0-2, 4.91 ERA)
Greensboro: Bryan Evans (1-0, 3.33 ERA)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Rick Zagone (2-2, 1.95 ERA)
Greensboro: Kyle Kaminska (3-1, 4.00 ERA)

Notes

* The first game is actually a suspended matchup from last night. The Shorebirds and Grasshoppers will resume the meeting in the second inning. Delmarva is scheduled to begin the suspended game with right-hander Colin Allen on the mound and right-handed pitcher Bryan Evans will start for Greensboro.

* In his last start, Zagone suffered the loss after allowing two runs and six hits in six innings against the Grasshoppers on May 3. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out seven batters and issued two walks in the Shorebirds' 2-1 defeat. Opponents are hitting .172 in five games against Zagone this season.

* Kaminska outdueled Zagone in his last start on May 3. The 20-year-old right-hander earned the win after giving up one run and four hits in six innings. Kaminska collected seven strikeouts and didn't allow any walks. In five starts in 2009, he has 28 strikeouts in 27 innings for Greensboro.

* Since last night's game was suspended between the two teams, the Shorebirds (15-10) remain in first place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. Greensboro is in second place, trailing Delmarva by 1/2 game, with a 16-12 record.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides defeated the Buffalo Bisons, and the Single-A Frederick Keys won against the Wilmington Blue Rocks.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox, however, lost to the Erie SeaWolves, and the game between the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds and Greensboro Grasshoppers was suspended after the first inning.

Before today's game, the Keys activated right-handed pitcher Cliff Flagello from the temporary inactive list and transferred left-hander Jake Stevens to the roster of the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 5, Buffalo Bisons 1 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Oscar Salazar hit his fifth home run of the season in the eighth inning -- a two-run shot against Bisons relief pitcher Carlos Muniz -- and the Tides grabbed a 5-1 victory.

Norfolk designated hitter Matt Wieters was 2-for-4 with a two-run double and two runs scored. Center fielder Justin Christian and second baseman Justin Turner each added a hit and a run scored for the Tides.

Starting pitcher Jason Berken (2-0) tossed five scoreless innings in his first game since returning from the disabled list for Norfolk. The 25-year-old right-hander scattered four hits, and he hasn't allowed any runs in 15 innings since being called up to Triple-A.

Tides relief pitcher Jim Miller retired all three batters he faced to pick up his sixth save of the season.

Wieters is now batting .296 with one home run and 12 RBIs in 23 games this season.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 7, Erie SeaWolves 5 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Brandon Snyder was 3-for-4 with a double and a solo home run, but the Baysox suffered a 7-5 loss to Erie. The 22-year-old infielder is batting .355 with four home runs, 11 doubles and 19 RBIs in 25 games for Bowie.

Baysox catcher Adam Donachie also hit a home run, and right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion added two RBIs. Second baseman Paco Figueroa was 2-for-4 with two run scored for Bowie, while third baseman Miguel Abreu had one RBI.

Bowie starting pitcher John Mariotti gave up four runs and six hits in five innings during his Double-A debut, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 24-year-old right-hander walked four batters and collected four strikeouts in the game.

Relief pitcher Jim Hoey (0-2) suffered the loss for the Baysox after allowing two unearned runs and three hits in one inning.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 7, Wilmington Blue Rocks 6 (Box score)

Recap: David Cash, who entered the game as a pinch runner in the seventh inning, delivered with a two-run single in the ninth to give the Keys a walkoff victory, 7-6, over Wilmington at Harry Grove Stadium.

Frederick left fielder Kraig Binick and first baseman Brandon Waring each collected three hits, while third baseman Tyler Henson was 2-for-4 with a double.

Keys starting pitcher Pedro Beato allowed three runs and seven hits in five innings. Relief pitcher Chris Salberg (1-2) earned the victory for Frederick after tossing a scoreless inning.

Center fielder Matt Angle was 0-for-1 with four walks and two runs scored for the Keys.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Tonight's game between Delmarva and Greensboro was suspended in the second inning due to rain. The two teams will continue the matchup Sunday at 2:05 p.m., and it is scheduled for a full nine innings. The Shorebirds and Grasshoppers will play a seven-inning game -- the one originally planned for Sunday -- following the completion of the first meeting.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game recaps
        

If you're looking for something to do tonight, head out to Harry Grove Stadium to watch the Single-A Frederick Keys play the Wilmington Blue Rocks.

The first 1,000 fans to enter the ballpark will receive a Matt Wieters bobblehead. A fireworks display will also be held after the game, which is set to begin at 6 p.m., and the gates will open at 5 p.m.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides continue their series on the road against the Buffalo Bisons, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox and Erie SeaWolves meet again.

The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds open up a four-game series against the Greensboro Grasshoppers.

Also, Keys infielder Ryan Adams reinjured his groin in last night's loss to Wilmington. Adams left the game after grounding out in the bottom of the sixth inning, and there is no word on how long he will be out of action.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Buffalo Bisons (1:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Jason Berken (1-0, 0.00 ERA)
Buffalo: Kyle Snyder (0-2, 5.06 ERA)

Notes

* Berken is listed as the probable starter for today's game, according to the Tides, but I believe the team will need to make a roster move in order to clear a spot for him. I haven't heard anything, but I'll pass along any news later. The 25-year-old right-hander hasn't allowed any runs in 10 innings since being called up from Bowie last month. Berken tossed seven scoreless innings against the Charlotte Knights in his Triple-A debut on April 21. He didn't give up any hits in three innings against the Durham Bulls on April 26 before leaving with a strained groin.

* Snyder is slated to make his second start of the season for the Bisons. The 31-year-old right-hander allowed two runs and four hits in four innings during the second game of the doubleheader against the Louisville Bats on May 2. Left-handed batters are hitting .353, while righties have a .222 batting average against Snyder.

* Despite last night's loss, the Tides remain in first place in the International League South Division with a 16-11 record. Norfolk is 1/2 game ahead of the Durham Bulls (16-12). Buffalo remains in last place in the North Division with a 6-20 record, which is 16 games behind the division-leading Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (23-5).

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Erie SeaWolves (1:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: John Mariotti (1-2, 4.37 ERA with the Keys this season)
Erie: Luis Marte (2-2, 2.92 ERA)

Notes

* In seven appearances (two starts) with Frederick, Mariotti was 1-2 with a 4.37 ERA. He allowed three runs and four hits in two innings against the Winston-Salem Dash on May 5 in his final game for the Keys. The 24-year-old right-hander was promoted to Bowie earlier this week in order to fill the roster spot vacated by Brandon Erbe, who was placed on the disabled list with shoulder fatigue.

* Marte leads the SeaWolves with 22 strikeouts in 24 2/3 innings this season. The 22-year-old right-hander picked up the victory in his last start after giving up one run and five hits in seven innings against the Altoona Curve on May 2. Marte suffered the loss against the Baysox on April 13. He allowed two runs and five hits in 5 2/3 innings during Bowie's 2-1 win.

* After last night's loss, the Baysox (11-14) dropped to nine games behind the Akron Aeros (20-5) in the Eastern League Southern Division. Erie is in third place with a 16-10 record, 4 1/2 games behind Akron.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Wilmington Blue Rocks (6 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Pedro Beato (1-3, 4.74 ERA)
Wilmington: Eduardo Paulino (1-0, 5.63 ERA)

Notes

* After his first five starts this season, Beato continues to struggle with consistency. The 22-year-old right-hander gave up five runs (three earned) and five hits in 4 2/3 innings against the Potomac Nationals on May 2. He walked four batters and collected four strikeouts in the Keys' 8-4 loss. In the previous start on April 26, which was also against Potomac, Beato struck out eight hitters but allowed three home runs in Frederick's 13-7 victory.

* Paulino is scheduled to make his third start for the Blue Rocks. The 23-year-old right-hander is 1-0 with a 5.63 ERA in five appearances so far this season. Paulino didn't allow any hits in 2 2/3 innings of relief against Potomac on May 5, but he gave up five runs and 10 hits in 4 2/3 innings in his last start against Potomac on April 28.

* The Keys continue to dwell in last place in the Carolina League Northern Division with a 10-18 record. Frederick is eight games behind division-leading Potomac (18-10). Wilmington is five games back of the Nationals with a 13-15 record.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Greensboro Grasshoppers (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Oliver Drake (1-2, 3.68 ERA)
Greensboro: TBA

Notes

* After pitching well in his first two starts in 2009, Drake has suffered back-to-back losses for the Shorebirds. The 22-year-old right-hander gave up four runs and four hits against the Grasshoppers on May 2. Drake allowed four runs (three earned) and eight hits in five innings during Delmarva's 4-1 defeat to the Lakewood BlueClaws on April 27.

* The Shorebirds (15-10) remain in first place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division after last night's 7-1 victory over the West Virginia Power. Greensboro is tied for second place with the Kannapolis Intimidators. Both teams are 16-12 and 1/2 game behind Delmarva.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost to the Buffalo Bisons, who only had five wins before the matchup.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox lost by one run to the Erie SeaWolves, while the Single-A Frederick Keys wasted a fine pitching performance in their loss to the Wilmington Blue Rocks.

The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds brought some optimism to the Orioles' minor league system with a victory over the West Virginia Power.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Buffalo Bisons 4, Norfolk Tides 1 (Box score)

Recap: Chris Waters pitched well for the Tides in a 4-1 loss to Buffalo.

The 28-year-old left-hander gave up one run and three hits in seven innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. Waters threw 61 of his 89 pitches for strikes before leaving with the game tied, 1-1.

Norfolk relief pitcher Kam Mickolio (0-2) was charged with three runs and two hits in 2/3 of an innings. The 24-year-old relief pitcher walked two batters, and he also committed an error on a pickoff attempt. In six appearances this season, Mickolio is 0-2 with a 9.72 ERA.

As a team, the Tides collected only four hits. Left fielder Nolan Reimold was 1-for-4 with a strikeout for Norfolk, and catcher Matt Wieters was 0-for-3 with a walk.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

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

Recap: Center fielder Dave Krynzel was 3-for-4, but it wasn't enough as the Baysox suffered a 4-3 loss to Erie.

Bowie left fielder Jonathan Tucker was 2-for-4 with a double and two runs scored. First baseman Brandon Snyder and catcher Guillermo Rodriguez each added an RBI double for the Baysox.

Starting pitcher Sean Gleason (0-3) allowed four runs and nine hits in 6 1/3 innings for Bowie, while relief pitcher Fredy Deza gave up one hit in 1 2/3 scoreless innings.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Wilmington Blue Rocks 3, Frederick Keys 0 (Box score)

Recap: It was Brian Matusz's time to shine at Harry Grove Stadium tonight, but his performance still wasn't enough to lift the Keys to a victory.

Matusz (2-2) collected a career-high 13 strikeouts in seven innings, but the 22-year-old left-hander was the losing pitcher after allowing two runs (one earned) and six hits. He also walked one batter as Frederick suffered a 3-0 loss to the Blue Rocks.

Wilmington starting pitcher Danny Duffy (4-1) was equally impressive, striking out nine hitters and scattering three hits in 6 1/3 innings.

Designated hitter Tyler Henson was 1-for-2 with a walk for Frederick, who collected only five total hits in the game.

Keys right fielder Billy Rowell was 0-for-4 with a strikeout. The 20-year-old outfielder also committed his fourth error of the season when he dropped a fly ball in the ninth inning.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 7, West Virginia Power 1 (Box score)

Recap: Center fielder Xavier Avery stayed hot with two more hits and an RBI in the Shorebirds' 7-1 victory over West Virginia at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

The 19-year-old outfielder, who also scored two runs against the Power on Friday night, is hitting .455 (15-for-33) with six extra-base hits, four stolen bases and three RBIs in his past 10 games.

Delmarva right fielder Ronnie Welty raised his batting average to .349 this season after going 3-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored. Designated hitter Elvin Polanco and second baseman LJ Hoes each added two RBIs for the Shorebirds.

Left-hander Nathan Moreau gave up one run and two hits in three innings during his debut with Delmarva. Relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa (3-0) allowed one hit in three scoreless innings to earn the victory for the Shorebirds.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides and Double-A Bowie Baysox hit the road to begin weekend series tonight. Norfolk travels to play the Buffalo Bisons, and the Baysox will face the Erie SeaWolves.

The Single-A Frederick Keys continue their homestand with the Wilmington Blue Rocks coming to Harry Grove Stadium, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds conclude their four-game series against the West Virginia Power.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Buffalo Bisons (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Waters (2-2, 6.46 ERA)
Buffalo: Brandon Knight (1-2, 3.96 ERA)

Notes

* In his last start, Waters allowed seven runs and eight hits in 3 2/3 innings against the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees on May 3. Despite the lackluster performance, the 28-year-old left-hander didn't factor in the decision during the Tides' 11-7 loss. Overall, opponents are batting .284 against Waters this season, and he has given up 18 runs (17 earned) and 27 hits in 23 2/3 innings.

* Knight has been one of the bright spots for the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Mets so far this season. The 33-year-old right-hander earned the victory against the Louisville Bats in his last start after allowing five hits in seven shutout innings. Knight struck out nine batters and didn't issue any walks in the Bisons' 4-1 win.

* With four straight victories -- all against the Columbus Clippers -- the Tides (16-10) surged into first place in the International League South Division. Norfolk holds a 1/2-game lead over the Durham Bulls, who are 16-11. Buffalo is in last place in the six-team North Division with a 5-20 record. The Bisons are 16 games behind division-leading Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (22-5).

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

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

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Sean Gleason (0-2, 10.38 ERA)
Erie: Brooks Brown (3-0, 0.73 ERA)

Notes

* Gleason is still searching for his first victory this season after winning 12 games for the Shorebirds in 2008. The 23-year-old right-hander allowed six runs and nine hits in six innings against the Akron Aeros on May 2. Opponents are batting .367 in three starts against Gleason at the Double-A level since he was promoted from Frederick earlier in the season.

* In his first three starts this season, Brown didn't give up any runs. The 23-year-old right-hander finally allowed two runs and seven hits in seven innings against the Altoona Curve on May 1, but he earned his third straight win. Brown has surrendered two runs and 17 hits in 24 2/3 innings for the SeaWolves in 2009.

* The Baysox swept the doubleheader against the Trenton Thunder yesterday, which improved their record to 11-13 this season. Bowie is currently in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division, eight games behind the Akron Aeros (19-5). Erie is in third place in the division with a 15-10 record. The SeaWolves trail Akron by 4 1/2 games.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Wilmington Blue Rocks (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Brian Matusz (2-1, 3.67 ERA)
Wilmington: Danny Duffy (3-1, 4.21 ERA)

Notes

* After five starts this season, Matusz leads the Keys with 27 innings. The 22-year-old left-hander gave up four runs (three earned) and six hits in 5 1/3 innings against the Potomac Nationals on May 1. Matusz struck out six batters in the game, bringing his total to 32 in 2009. He ranks third in the Carolina League in that category, but both pitchers ahead of him have one more start.

* Duffy earned the win against the Winston-Salem Dash in his last start on May 2. The 20-year-old left-hander allowed two runs and four hits in five innings during Wilmington's 10-5 victory. Duffy collected 24 strikeouts and walked nine batters in 25 2/3 innings during his first five starts this season.

* The Keys (10-17) split the doubleheader against Winston-Salem yesterday, but they still need to make up a lot of ground in the Carolina League Northern Division. Frederick remains in last place in the division, trailing the Lynchburg Hillcats and Potomac Nationals -- who both have a 17-10 record -- by seven games. The Blue Rocks are five games behind the division leaders with a 12-15 record.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

West Virginia Power (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Nathan Moreau (1-2, 5.70 ERA with the Aberdeen IronBirds in 2008)
West Virginia: Tyler Cox (0-3, 9.50 ERA)

Notes

* The Shorebirds added Moreau from extended spring training yesterday in order to replace Nathan Nery, who was promoted to Frederick. The Orioles selected Moreau in the 11th round of the 2008 MLB draft, and he pitched for the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds last season. The 22-year-old left-hander was 1-2 with a 5.70 ERA in 10 games (seven starts) for the IronBirds. He struck out 48 hitters and only issued nine walks in 36 1/3 innings.

* In his first five games (four starts) this season, Cox hasn't experienced much success. The 23-year-old left-hander allowed six runs and five hits without recording an out against the Lexington Legends in the second game of a doubleheader on April 11. Cox gave up three runs and five hits in five innings against the Hagerstown Suns in his last start on April 30.

* The Shorebirds (14-10) are percentage points ahead of the Lakewood BlueClaws (15-11) in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. West Virginia is in last place in the division with a 7-19 record, eight games behind the leaders.