The Triple-A Norfolk Tides topped the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox lost to the Akron Aeros.

The Single-A Frederick Keys beat the Wilmington Blue Rocks, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds won against the Hickory Crawdads.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds were edged by the Staten Island Yankees, and the rookie-level Bluefield Orioles fell against the Burlington Royals.

The Orioles released catcher Dustin Black earlier today. Black hit .159 with two home runs and four RBIs in 18 games for the Shorebirds this season. Catcher Victor Castillo was activated from the disabled list and added to Delmarva's roster.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 3, Lehigh Valley IronPigs 1 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher David Pauley (6-6) gave up one run and five hits in seven innings in the Tides' 3-1 victory over Lehigh Valley. The 26-year-old right-hander collected five strikeouts.

Norfolk third baseman Brandon Pinckney was 2-for-3 with an RBI, while first baseman Brandon Snyder added a double, an RBI and a run scored.

Tides designated hitter Michael Aubrey was 1-for-3 with a double and a run scored.

Relief pitcher Alberto Castillo retired the side in the ninth inning to earn his third save of the season for the Tides.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Akron Aeros 5, Bowie Baysox 1, 8 innings (Box score)

Recap: Catcher Guillermo Rodriguez was 1-for-2 with a solo home run, but the Baysox lost to Akron, 5-1, in eight innings at Prince George's Stadium.

The game was called early due to rain.

Bowie starting pitcher Radhames Liz (2-1) gave up five runs and 11 hits in six innings. The 25-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and issued one walk.

Starting pitcher Fausto Carmona (1-0), who is trying to work his way back to the major leagues after struggling to start the season with the Cleveland Indians, allowed one run and four hits in seven innings for the Aeros.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 7, Wilmington Blue Rocks 5 (Box score)

Recap: Left fielder Tyler Henson was 2-for-4 with two home runs and four RBIs, and the Keys collected a 7-5 win over Wilmington at Harry Grove Stadium.

Frederick shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. added two doubles, an RBI and two runs scored, but he also committed his 19th and 20th errors on defense.

Designated hitter Wally Crancer was 1-for-3 with a triple and a run scored for the Keys, while second baseman Ryan Adams and center fielder Matt Angle each had an RBI.

Keys starting pitcher Pedro Beato gave up four runs and nine hits in 4 2/3 innings. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out two batters and issued two walks.

Relief pitcher Jake Stevens (3-4) earned the victory after tossing 1 1/3 scoreless innings for Frederick, and Ryan Rodriguez recorded the final two outs for his first save since moving down to the Carolina League.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 4, Hickory Crawdads 1 (Box score)

Recap: Left fielder Kyle Hudson was 3-for-4 with a double and a run scored, and the Shorebirds beat Hickory, 4-1, at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

Delmarva designated hitter Joe Mahoney was 2-for-4 with a run scored, while third baseman Tyler Kolodny and first baseman Elvin Polanco each added a double and an RBI.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Chris Salberg (1-0) gave up one run and four hits in 5 1/3 innings. The 25-year-old left-hander collected five strikeouts and didn't walk anyone.

Relief pitcher Cliff Flagello retired the final two batters to pick up his first save since joining the Shorebirds.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Score: Staten Island Yankees 4, Aberdeen IronBirds 3, 11 innings (Box score)

Recap: Second baseman Michael Mooney was 2-for-6 with two-run home run and a double, but the IronBirds suffered a 4-3 loss in 11 innings against Staten Island.

Aberdeen designated hitter Tom Edwards was 2-for-3 with a walk, and right fielder Arthur Bonevacia added two hits, a walk and a run scored.

IronBirds starting pitcher Patrick Kantakevich gave up two runs and four hits in 4 2/3 innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 22-year-old right-hander walked four batters and collected two strikeouts.

Relief pitcher Jose Barajas (0-1) allowed one run, two hits and two walks in 1 2/3 innings for the IronBirds.

Aberdeen catcher Justin Dalles, who was selected by the Orioles in the sixth round of this year's MLB draft, was 0-for-4 with a walk and three strikeouts in his professional debut. First baseman Tyler Townsend, the team's third-round pick, was 0-for-5 with four strikeouts in his first start for the IronBirds.

Bluefield Orioles (Rookie)

Score: Burlington Royals 10, Bluefield Orioles 3 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Luis Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a two-run home run in the eighth inning, but the Orioles fell, 10-3, to Burlington.

Bluefield second baseman Omar Casamayor collected two hits, including a solo home run, and first baseman Corey Thomas was 2-for-4 with a double.

Orioles starting pitcher Bobby Bundy (0-2) allowed five runs (three earned), two hits and four walks in three innings. The 19-year-old right-hander struck out three batters.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides wrap up a road trip against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox return home to Prince George's Stadium to play the Akron Aeros.

The Single-A Frederick Keys continue their homestand against the Wilmington Blue Rocks at Harry Grove Stadium, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds return to Arthur W. Perdue Stadium to face the Hickory Crawdads.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds are on the road against the Staten Island Yankees.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Lehigh Valley IronPigs (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Pauley (5-6, 4.39 ERA)
Lehigh Valley: Kyle Kendrick (4-4, 3.97 ERA)

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Akron Aeros (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Radhames Liz (2-0, 3.00 ERA)
Akron: Fausto Carmona (2-6, 7.42 ERA with Cleveland Indians this season)

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Wilmington Blue Rocks (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Pedro Beato (4-5, 4.62 ERA)
Wilmington: Alex Caldera (1-6, 6.42 ERA)

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Hickory Crawdads (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Chris Salberg (0-0, 2.70 ERA)
Hickory: Martin Perez (2-4, 2.81 ERA)

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Opponent

at Staten Island Yankees (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Aberdeen: Patrick Kantakevich (0-1, 7.94 ERA)
Staten Island: Arodys Vizcaino (0-2, 1.08 ERA)

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

Three Eastern League teams, including the Double-A Bowie Baysox, are working together with the Alliance for Consumer Education (ACE) for the "Striking Out Inhalant Abuse" program.

The Baysox will welcome students to Prince George's Stadium for the Inhalant Abuse Night during their game against the Harrisburg Senators on Wednesday, July 8, at 7:05 p.m.

The Trenton Thunder and New Britain Rock Cats are planning similar events.

"The Baysox look forward to putting aside our competitive differences with the Thunder and the Rock Cats for this program," Baysox general manager Brian Shallcross said in a statement. "Hopefully, by working together, we can have a greater positive impact on the youth that mean so much to our communities."

Nationwide, children abuse more than 1,400 everyday products, according to a statement. With the cooperation of the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), Louie, the Baysox mascot, and team representatives will visit dozens of local schools to discuss inhalant abuse.

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

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides beat the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox topped the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys lost in extra innings to the Wilmington Blue Rocks, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds outlasted the Lakewood BlueClaws.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds fell to the Staten Island Yankees, and the rookie-level Bluefield Orioles dropped a decision to the Burlington Royals.

Before tonight's game, the Orioles added two 2009 draft picks to the IronBirds' roster -- first baseman Tyler Townsend (third round) and catcher Justin Dalles (sixth round).

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 6, Lehigh Valley IronPigs 1 (Box score)

Recap: Third baseman Melvin Dorta hit a grand slam in the fifth inning to lead the Tides to a 6-1 victory over Lehigh Valley.

Norfolk first baseman Brandon Snyder, who dropped to sixth in the lineup tonight, was 2-for-4 with a double, an RBI and a run scored. Right fielder Jolbert Cabrera added two hits for the Tides.

Starting pitcher Andy Mitchell (5-2) allowed one run and six hits in six innings to pick up the victory for Norfolk. The 30-year-old right-hander walked four batters and collected two strikeouts.

Tides relief pitcher Ross Wolf struck out four of the six batters he faced in two innings, while Jim Miller picked up three strikeouts and gave up one hit in the ninth.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 5, Altoona Curve 1 (Box score)

Recap: The Baysox hit three home runs, including two in the first inning, to cruise to a 5-1 win over Altoona in the series finale.

Bowie first baseman Eric Crozier and center fielder Dave Krynzel each hit a two-run home run in the first. Crozier finished 3-for-3 in the game.

Right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion added a solo shot in the fourth for Bowie.

Baysox starting pitcher Bobby Livingston (6-2) gave up one run and five hits in seven innings. The 26-year-old left-hander struck out four batters and issued two walks.

Relief pitcher Ryohei Tanaka tossed two scoreless innings for the Baysox.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Wilmington Blue Rocks 7, Frederick Keys 3, 10 innings (Box score)

Recap: Catcher Caleb Joseph was 2-for-5 with a solo home run, but the Keys fell to Wilmington, 7-3, in 10 innings at Harry Grove Stadium.

Frederick starting pitcher Zach Britton struck out nine batters in six innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 21-year-old left-hander allowed three runs, six hits and one walk.

Relief pitcher Joe Esposito (0-2) gave up four runs and four hits in two innings for the Keys. The 24-year-old right-hander suffered back-to-back losses in two appearances since being called up from Delmarva, where he was 3-0 with a 1.08 ERA in 18 games.

Keys left fielder David Cash collected three hits, including a triple, and an RBI, while shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. scored two runs.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 13, Lakewood BlueClaws 9 (Box score)

Recap: The Shorebirds scored eight runs in the sixth inning, and they ended Lakewood's five-run rally in the ninth for a 13-9 victory.

Delmarva left fielder Kyle Hudson led the team offensively with four hits, two stolen bases, two RBIs and two runs scored, while second baseman L.J. Hoes and center fielder Xavier Avery each added three hits. Hoes scored three runs, and Avery scored twice and collected an RBI.

Shorebirds third baseman Tyler Kolodny was 2-for-4 with a double, a triple, two RBIs and two runs scored, and first baseman Joe Mahoney was 2-for-5 with three RBIs and a run scored.

Starting pitcher Oliver Drake (4-4) picked up the win for the Shorebirds after allowing four runs and six hits in 5 1/3 innings. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out seven batters and issued two walks.

Catcher Luis Bernardo had two hits and two RBIs for Delmarva.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Score: Staten Island Yankees 5, Aberdeen IronBirds 2 (Box score)

Recap: Shortstop Michael Mooney picked up his first two professional hits, but the IronBirds lost, 5-2, to Staten Island. The 21-year-old infielder was 2-for-5 with a triple and a run scored.

Aberdeen starting pitcher Colin Allen (0-2) allowed three runs and six hits in three innings. The 22-year-old right-hander collected three strikeouts and walked one batter.

IronBirds center fielder Richard D'Oleo was 2-for-4 with a triple and a run scored, and left fielder Arthur Bonevacia collected an RBI.

Townsend struck out in his professional debut as a pinch-hitter in the ninth inning.

Bluefield Orioles (Rookie)

Score: Burlington Royals 8, Bluefield Orioles 5 (Box score)

Recap: Shortstop Javier Santana was 2-for-3 with a double and two runs scored, but the Orioles dropped an 8-5 decision to Burlington.

Bluefield starting pitcher Vito Frabizio threw well in the loss, allowing only two unearned runs and four hits in five innings. The 20-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and issued one walk.

Orioles second baseman Omar Casamayor was 1-for-3 with two RBIs and two runs scored, while left fielder Jose Kianes and third baseman Mike Flacco each added an RBI.

Relief pitcher Robert Holloway (0-1) gave up six runs, four hits and three walks in one inning for Bluefield.

GCL Orioles (Rookie)

The game between the GCL Orioles and GCL Twins was suspended with the score tied, 2-2, in the top of the ninth inning.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides face the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox conclude their road trip against the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys host the Wilmington Blue Rocks at Harry Grove Stadium, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds wrap up their series on the road against the Lakewood BlueClaws.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds play the Staten Island Yankees.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Lehigh Valley IronPigs (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Andy Mitchell (4-2, 4.36 ERA)
Lehigh Valley: Gustavo Chacin (2-2, 3.81 ERA)

Notes

* Following yesterday's loss, the Tides (41-34) dropped into second place in the International League South Division. Norfolk trails the first-place Durham Bulls (43-34) by one game in the division. Lehigh Valley (38-38) is in fourth place in the North Division, and the IronPigs are five games behind the division-leading Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (42-32).

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

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

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Bobby Livingston (5-2, 3.97 ERA)
Altoona: Derek Hankins (0-1, 4.15 ERA)

Notes

* The Baysox (41-34) are in third place in the Eastern League Southern Division, and they trail the first-place Akron Aeros (50-24) by 9 1/2 games. Bowie is 1 1/2 games behind the Reading Phillies (42-32) for a playoff berth, while Altoona (27-49) is in last place in the division. The Curve is 24 games behind Akron.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Wilmington Blue Rocks (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Zach Britton (4-2, 1.94 ERA)
Wilmington: Rowdy Hardy (2-0, 2.25 ERA)

Notes

* All four teams in the Carolina League Northern Division, including Frederick and Wilmington, are tied for first place with a 2-2 record in the second half. Overall, the Keys have a 33-40 record in 2009, while the Blue Rocks are 40-33.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Lakewood BlueClaws (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Oliver Drake (3-4, 2.97 ERA)
Lakewood: Justin De Fratus (2-0, 1.58 ERA)

Notes

* The Shorebirds (2-2 in second half, 38-35 overall) are one game off the pace in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. The Lake County Captains and West Virginia Power are tied for first place in the division with a 3-1 record in the second half, which puts them both one game in front of Delmarva. Lakewood (2-2, 44-28) is tied with the Shorebirds.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Opponent

at Staten Island Yankees (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Aberdeen: Colin Allen (0-1, 6.00 ERA)
Staten Island: Shaeffer Hall (0-0, 0.00 ERA)

Notes

* The IronBirds (4-5) are tied with the Hudson Valley Renegades (4-5) for second place in the New York-Penn League McNamara Division. Both teams trail the first-place Brooklyn Cyclones (7-2) by three games, while Staten Island is in last place with a 3-6 record.

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

In case you missed it, the Orioles signed first-round draft pick Matt Hobgood and introduced him to the crowd at Camden Yards during Saturday's game against the Washington Nationals.

Bluefield Orioles general manager Michael Showe said in an e-mail that Hobgood was set to join the rookie-level affiliate yesterday, and it's unclear at this time when he will make his first appearance with the team.

Check out the links below for additional Baltimore Sun coverage from over the weekend about Hobgood's signing.

• In his Sunday column, Peter Schmuck -- you can also find him here in the blogosphere -- talks about Hobgood's decision to bypass a baseball scholarship at Cal State Fullerton to start his professional career.

"I think the biggest thing is they've been really welcoming to us," [his mother] Becky Hobgood said, wiping her eyes. "That's what's important to us. It makes it easier to leave him here. Tomorrow, we go home without him, Tomorrow, he gets to start his dream career."

• Here are some photos of Hobgood, including several new images of the news conference during which he signed his first professional contract at Camden Yards.

• Mike Klingaman takes a look at five interesting, but mostly unknown facts about the young right-handed pitcher on The Baltimore Sun's Toy Department blog.

Hobgood hates to lose. At anything.

"I like to mess with people, let them think they’re beating me and then go after them. Sometimes in baseball I’ll get a little wild, walk a couple of guys and then tell myself, ‘You’ve got to get it done.’ Then I’ll strike out three people."

• Here is a video of Hobgood signing his contract and talking about the team, courtesy of Baltimore Sun photographer Karl Merton Ferron:

Finally, the folks at BaseballBeginnings.com e-mailed me over the weekend to pass along several other links to content about Hobgood on their Web site.

Author John Klima, who is also a former minor league baseball broadcaster, is the creator of Baseball Beginnings, and he seems to be one of the most knowledgeable sources about Hobgood on the Internet.

• Here is the pre-draft scouting report video of Hobgood, which also features a brief analysis of what you're seeing in the piece.

• Here is the scouting report about Hobgood. For what it's worth, the Web site ranks the first-round pick as a 55 overall, which means they see him as an above-average prospect who would grade out to a "B".

• Here is an interview with Hobgood from March. The California high school right-hander talks about several things, including his preference to remain as a starter in professional baseball.

• Here is a follow-up interview with Hobgood after the draft.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Well, it's not exactly a Fourth of July celebration, but the Double-A Bowie Baysox will hold a fireworks display following their game against the Akron Aeros on Friday, July 3, at Prince George's Stadium.

The fireworks show is scheduled to be almost twice as long as the regular display at the stadium, according to the Baysox.

"We think our fans will be really impressed by the fireworks display," Baysox general manager Brian Shallcross said in a statement. "We are excited to provide a family-friendly venue for our community to kick off the holiday weekend."

A special cookout also will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. at the ballpark. Fans can celebrate the holiday with hot dogs, hamburgers, watermelons and soft drinks in the Picnic Pavilion.

Tickets for the event are $19 each for season-ticket holders and children from age 6 to 12, while others will be able to reserve a spot for $23 each. The package includes a place at the cookout, as well as a general admission ticket for the game. For $4 more per ticket, fans can upgrade to the lower reserved section.

The game is scheduled to begin at 6:05 p.m., and the gates to the stadium will open at 5 p.m. To purchase tickets, contact Jed Vess at 301-464-4890 by 3 p.m. Wednesday.

In honor of the holiday, there will also be a contest to see who can be the fastest to eat an apple pie without using hands or utensils. There will be 10 fans in the event, and the winner will receive four tickets to Hersheypark and assorted Baysox apparel. The contest will begin at 5:30 p.m.

For more information on the festivities, check out Bowie's Web site.

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

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost to the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox fell to the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys struggled in the late innings against the Wilmington Blue Rocks, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds beat the Lakewood BlueClaws.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds dropped a decision to the Staten Island Yankees.

The rookie-level Bluefield Orioles swept the Kingsport Mets, while the rookie-level GCL Orioles lost to the GCL Reds.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Lehigh Valley IronPigs 6, Norfolk Tides 1 (Box score)

Recap: Left fielder Joey Gathright was 3-for-5 with a stolen base and a run scored, but the Tides fell to Lehigh Valley, 6-1, for their second straight loss.

Norfolk starting pitcher Chris Tillman (5-5) cruised through the first six innings, but he couldn't avoid trouble in the seventh. The IronPigs scored six runs in the seventh, including five against Tillman. Overall, the 21-year-old right-hander allowed five runs and three hits in 6 2/3 innings. He struck out five batters and issued three walks.

Tides designated hitter Michael Aubrey was 2-for-4 with an RBI, and shortstop Melvin Dorta and third baseman Brandon Pinckney each collected two hits, including a double.

First baseman Brandon Snyder was 0-for-4 with two strikeouts for Norfolk, lowering his batting average to .189 in 10 games since joining the Tides.

Former Orioles starting pitcher Rodrigo Lopez (5-4) gave up one run and seven hits in seven innings to earn the victory for the IronPigs. The 33-year-old right-hander threw 70 of his 95 pitches for strikes.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Altoona Curve 8, Bowie Baysox 4 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Tim Bascom (2-1) was roughed up for the first time since joining the Baysox in an 8-4 loss to Altoona. The 24-year-old right-hander allowed seven runs (six earned) and eight hits in five innings.

Bowie left fielder Jonathan Tucker was 2-for-4 with a double, a stolen base, an RBI and a run scored, while center fielder Danny Figueroa added two hits and an RBI.

Right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion collected two hits for the Baysox, and first baseman Eric Crozier had a double and an RBI.

Baysox relief pitchers Wilfrido Perez and Josh Perrault each tossed a scoreless inning.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Wilmington Blue Rocks 7, Frederick Keys 6 (Box score)

Recap: The Keys squandered a six-run lead in a 7-6 loss to Wilmington at Harry Grove Stadium.

Frederick relief pitcher Luis Lebron (2-3) gave up three runs and three hits in the ninth inning. The 24-year-old right-hander collected two strikeouts and walked two batters.

Keys second baseman Bobby Stevens was 2-for-5 with a solo home run and two runs scored, while designated hitter David Cash added two hits and an RBI.

Starting pitcher Rick Zagone's debut with the Keys was spoiled. The 22-year-old left-hander only allowed three hits and a walk in six scoreless innings. He struck out five batters.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 7, Lakewood BlueClaws 2 (Box score)

Recap: Third baseman Tyler Kolodny was 2-for-5 with two home runs and three RBIs to lead the Shorebirds to a 7-2 win over Lakewood.

Delmarva second baseman L.J. Hoes was 4-for-5 with a double, two stolen bases and two runs scored, and shortstop Rodolfo Cardona added two hits and two RBIs.

Left fielder Kyle Hudson and right fielder Ronnie Welty each collected two hits and an RBI for Delmarva.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Ryan O'Shea gave up two runs and eight hits in five innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. Relief pitcher T.R. Keating (4-1) tossed three scoreless innings to earn the victory for Delmarva.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Score: Staten Island Yankees 8, Aberdeen IronBirds 7 (Box score)

Recap: The IronBirds hit four home runs as a team, but the bullpen couldn't hold a late lead in an 8-7 loss to Staten Island.

Aberdeen shortstop Blake Davis was 2-for-5 with a solo home run and a double, while left fielder Lance West, second baseman Buck Britton and first baseman T.J. Baxter each added a solo home run.

IronBirds starting pitcher Nicholas Haughian allowed one unearned run and five hits in four innings, but he didn't factor in the decision.

Relief pitcher Jose Barajas gave up four runs and four hits without retiring a batter for Aberdeen, and James Brandhorst (0-1) suffered the loss after surrendering two runs and four hits in 1 2/3 innings.

Right fielder Jason Rook hit a two-run double for the IronBirds.

Bluefield Orioles (Rookie)

Score: Bluefield Orioles 10, Kingsport Mets 4 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Corey Thomas was 3-for-4 with two RBIs and a run scored as the Orioles completed a three-game sweep over Kingsport with a 10-4 victory.

Bluefield left fielder Kipp Schutz collected two hits and two RBIs, while center fielder Michael Planeta was 2-for-4 with a walk and two runs scored.

Orioles starting pitcher Jesse Beal (1-1) earned his first professional victory after allowing three runs (two earned) and five hits in six innings. The 18-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and didn't walk anyone.

Third baseman Mike Flacco was 1-for-2 with three walks and three runs scored for Bluefield, and second baseman Gary Helmick hit his first professional home run, a solo shot in the third inning.

GCL Orioles (Rookie)

Score: GCL Reds 7, GCL Orioles 5 (Box score)

Recap: Second baseman Bo Ford was 3-for-4 with two RBIs, but the Orioles couldn't take advantage of five errors by the Reds in a 7-5 loss.

Orioles first baseman David Anderson was 3-for-4 with a double, an RBI and two runs scored, and third baseman Anyi Tejeda added two hits, an RBI and a run scored.

Relief pitcher Jason Hallerman (0-1) struggled with his control for the Orioles. The 21-year-old right-hander didn't allow any hits, but he walked five batters and surrendered three runs in two-thirds of an inning. Hallerman also threw three wild pitches.

So far this season, Hallerman hasn't given up any hits, but he has walked seven batters and allowed four runs while recording only two outs in two appearances.

Orioles starting pitcher Daurin Tavarez gave up one unearned run and four hits in five innings. The 20-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and didn't walk anyone.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides continue their series on the road against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox play the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys host the Wilmington Blue Rocks at Harry Grove Stadium, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds face the Lakewood BlueClaws.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds travel to New York for a game against the Staten Island Yankees.

Former Orioles starting pitcher Rodrigo Lopez is scheduled to pitch for Lehigh Valley against the Tides this evening.

The 33-year-old right-hander hasn't pitched in the major leagues since 2007 with the Colorado Rockies. Lopez was 60-58 with a 4.72 ERA in five seasons with the Orioles. He is 4-4 with a 4.20 ERA in 12 starts for the IronPigs so far in 2009.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Lehigh Valley IronPigs (5:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Tillman (5-4, 2.59 ERA)
Lehigh Valley: Rodrigo Lopez (4-4, 4.20 ERA)

Notes

* After last night's loss, the Tides (41-33) dropped into a first-place tie with the Durham Bulls (42-34) in the International League South Division. The IronPigs are in fourth place in the North Division with a 37-38 record, and they trail the first-place Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (42-31) by six games.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Altoona Curve (6:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Tim Bascom (2-0, 1.89 ERA)
Altoona: Kyle Bloom (1-4, 3.26 ERA)

Notes

* With four consecutive victories, the Baysox (41-33) climbed into third place in the Eastern League Southern Division. Bowie trails the division-leading Akron Aeros (50-23) by 9 1/2 games, and the Baysox are 1/2 game behind the second-place Reading Phillies (41-32) for a playoff berth. Altoona (26-49) is in last place in the division, trailing Akron by 25 games.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Wilmington Blue Rocks (6 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Rick Zagone (4-5, 4.66 ERA with Delmarva this season)
Wilmington: Eduardo Paulino (3-4, 4.45 ERA)

Notes

* The Keys jumped out to a good start in the second half by taking two out of three games from the Winston-Salem Dash. Frederick (2-1 in second half, 33-39 overall) is currently tied for first place with the Potomac Nationals (2-1, 39-31) in the Carolina League Northern Division during the second half. Wilmington (1-2, 39-33) is one game behind the leaders in the division.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Lakewood BlueClaws (1:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Ryan O'Shea (5-3, 3.13 ERA)
Lakewood: Trevor May (0-1, 8.12 ERA)

Notes

* The Shorebirds (1-2, 37-35) dropped both games against Lakewood (2-1, 44-27) on Saturday to fall into a three-way tie for fifth place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. The BlueClaws are tied for first place in the division.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Opponent

at Staten Island Yankees (4 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Aberdeen: Nicholas Haughian (0-1, 1.80 ERA)
Staten Island: Trenton Lare (1-0, 0.00 ERA)

Notes

* After winning three out of six games on their first homestand of the season, the IronBirds (4-4) are tied for second place in the New York-Penn League McNamara Division. Staten Island (2-6) is in last place in the division. Aberdeen trails the first-place Brooklyn Cyclones (6-2) by two games, while the Yankees are four games behind.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides failed to score a run against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox swept a doubleheader from the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys beat the Winston-Salem Dash, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds dropped both games against the Lakewood BlueClaws.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds topped the Brooklyn Cyclones.

The rookie-level Bluefield Orioles came alive late for a blowout win over the Kingsport Mets, and the rookie-level GCL Orioles earned a win over the GCL Red Sox.

Before tonight's game, the Orioles released Lee Ellis. The 24-year-old outfielder batted .210 with nine RBIs in 36 games for the IronBirds last season. He was on Aberdeen's disabled list to start the 2009 season.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Lehigh Valley IronPigs 5, Norfolk Tides 0 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Troy Patton (1-2) gave up five runs (four earned) and 10 hits in 5 1/3 innings, and the Tides were blanked, 5-0, by Lehigh Valley.

Norfolk third baseman Jolbert Cabrera was 2-for-4 with a double, and left fielder Justin Christian added a single and two stolen bases.

Tides center fielder Joey Gathright, who collected at least two hits in five of his past 10 games, was 0-for-4 with a strikeout and a double play.

Designated hitter Brandon Snyder went 0-for-4 for the second consecutive night for the Tides, lowering his batting average to .212 in nine games at the Triple-A level.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Game 1 score: Bowie Baysox 5, Altoona Curve 1 (Box score)

Game 1 recap: Starting pitcher Brian Matusz (2-0) allowed one run and three hits in 5 1/3 innings, and the Baysox cruised to a 5-1 win over Altoona in the first game of the doubleheader. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out five batters and issued three walks.

Bowie first baseman Eric Crozier was 3-for-4 with a double, an RBI and three runs scored, and second baseman Miguel Abreu added two hits and three RBIs.

Baysox third baseman Mike Costanzo was 1-for-2 with an RBI triple and a run scored, while left fielder Jonathan Tucker collected a single, a run scored and his 18th stolen base of the season.

Relief pitcher Ryan Ouellette tossed 1 2/3 scoreless innings to earn his first save of the season for the Baysox.

Game 2 score: Bowie Baysox 5, Altoona Curve 0 (Box score)

Game 2 recap: Costanzo hit a grand slam with no outs in the sixth inning to boost the Baysox to a 5-0 victory over Altoona in the nightcap.

Tucker was 2-for-3 with a triple and two runs scored, while shortstop Robert Valido was 1-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored for the Baysox.

Bowie starting pitcher Fredy Deza (3-2) tossed five scoreless innings to pick up the win. The 26-year-old right-hander allowed three hits and struck out two batters.

Relief pitcher Jim Hoey didn't allow a run in two innings for the Baysox. The 26-year-old right-hander collected three strikeouts and hit a batter.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 8, Winston-Salem Dash 5 (Box score)

Recap: Third baseman Brandon Waring was 2-for-3 with a home run and four RBIs to lead the Keys to an 8-5 win over Winston-Salem at Harry Grove Stadium.

Frederick second baseman Ryan Adams added a double, two RBIs and a run scored, while catcher Billy Killian was 2-for-4 with two RBIs and two runs scored.

Keys starting pitcher Nathan Nery allowed five runs and five hits in 3 2/3 innings. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out four batters and issued four walks, but he didn't factor in the decision.

After Frederick relief pitcher Pat Egan tossed 3 1/3 scoreless innings, Ryan Rodriguez (1-0) picked up the win after not giving up a run in one inning.

Center fielder Matt Angle and first baseman Robbie Widlansky each collected two hits for the Keys.

Frederick closer Luis Lebron pitched a scoreless ninth for his 11th save of the season.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Game 1 score: Lakewood BlueClaws 1, Delmarva Shorebirds 0 (Box score)

Game 1 recap: Lakewood scored a run in the bottom of the ninth inning to beat the Shorebirds, 1-0, in the completion of last night's suspended game.

When play resumed tonight, Delmarva left-hander Cole McCurry began the third and tossed 5 1/3 scoreless innings. McCurry struck out six batters and gave up two hits.

First baseman Elvin Polanco was 1-for-4 with a double for the Shorebirds, and right fielder Ronnie Welty added a single and a stolen base.

Delmarva starting pitcher Nathan Moreau tossed two scoreless innings before play was postponed due to rain last night.

Game 2 score: Lakewood BlueClaws 3, Delmarva Shorebirds 2, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 2 recap: The Shorebirds committed four errors in the 3-2 loss to Lakewood during the regularly scheduled meeting between the two teams.

Delmarva first baseman Joe Mahoney was 1-for-3 with an RBI triple and a run scored, while second baseman L.J. Hoes collected an RBI and a stolen base.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Brent Allar gave up one run and five hits in three innings, and relief pitcher Cliff Flagello (0-1) suffered the loss after allowing two unearned runs and three hits in three innings.

Allar, third baseman Tyler Kolodny, shortstop Rodolfo Cardona and right fielder Brian Conley each committed a defensive miscue for the Shorebirds.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Score: Aberdeen IronBirds 4, Brooklyn Cyclones 2 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Arthur Bonevacia was 3-for-4 with two doubles and a run scored, and the IronBirds beat Brooklyn, 4-2, at Ripken Stadium.

Aberdeen starting pitcher Kenny Moreland (2-0) gave up two runs (one earned) and three hits in six innings. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and didn't allow any walks.

IronBirds outfielder Richard D'Oleo was 2-for-3 with an RBI, and designated hitter Blake Davis added an RBI double.

Relief pitcher Scott Mueller tossed a scoreless inning to pick up his first save of the season for the IronBirds.

Aberdeen second baseman Michael Mooney, the Orioles' 23rd-round selection in this year's draft, was 0-for-5 with three strikeouts in his professional debut.

Bluefield Orioles (Rookie)

Score: Bluefield Orioles 15, Kingsport Mets 7 (Box score)

Recap: The Orioles scored 10 runs in the top of the ninth inning to come from behind in a 15-7 victory over Kingsport.

Bluefield third baseman Mike Flacco was 4-for-5 with a walk, two RBIs and two runs scored, while right fielder Luis Ramirez added two hits, four RBIs and two runs scored.

First baseman Edinho Meyer hit a two-run home run for Bluefield, and second baseman Omar Casamayor was 2-for-5 with three runs scored.

Orioles relief pitcher Sam Taveras (1-0) allowed two runs and three hits in 1 1/3 innings, but he earned the win after the team's late offensive outburst.

GCL Orioles (Rookie)

Score: GCL Orioles 8, GCL Red Sox 3 (Box score)

Recap: Left fielder Edwin Cintron was 2-for-4 with two RBIs to lead the Orioles to an 8-3 win over the Red Sox.

Orioles first baseman David Anderson collected a double, two RBIs and a run scored, while shortstop Anderson Childers was 2-for-4 with an RBI.

Starting pitcher Jario De La Cruz allowed three runs (two earned) and three hits in 3 2/3 innings for the Orioles, but he didn't factor in the decision.

Orioles relief pitcher Christopher Schmitt (1-0) retired all six batters he faced to pick up the victory. The 22-year-old right-hander collected three strikeouts.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides hit the road to play the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox continue their road trip with a doubleheader against the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys host the Winston-Salem Dash at Harry Grove Stadium, and the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds face the Brooklyn Cyclones at Ripken Stadium.

The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds will finish last night's suspended game with the Lakewood BlueClaws before the two teams play a seven-inning matchup. The first game will be picked up in a scoreless tie beginning in the bottom of the third inning.

New York Mets starting pitcher John Maine, a former Oriole, was scheduled to pitch against the IronBirds tonight, but he won't make that appearance.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Lehigh Valley IronPigs (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Troy Patton (1-1, 4.50 ERA)
Lehigh Valley: Drew Carpenter (6-1, 3.02 ERA)

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Doubleheader at Altoona Curve (5:05 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Bowie: Brian Matusz (1-0, 0.00 ERA)
Altoona: Tyler Herron (0-0, 0.00 ERA)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Bowie: Fredy Deza (2-2, 3.38 ERA)
Altoona: Sean Smith (3-1, 2.21 ERA)

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Winston-Salem Dash (6 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Nathan Nery (1-3, 4.44 ERA)
Winston-Salem: Anthony Carter (6-4, 3.84 ERA)

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Lakewood BlueClaws (6:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (3-5, 3.51 ERA)
Lakewood: Heitor Correa (4-2, 2.81 ERA)

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Opponent

Brooklyn Cyclones (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Aberdeen: Kenny Moreland (1-0, 0.00 ERA)
Brooklyn: Angel Cuan (0-1, 5.40 ERA)

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

Good morning, everyone.

I had some computer issues last night, so I apologize for the game recaps not being posted in a timely manner. It's better late than never, however, so here they are.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides beat the Pawtucket Red Sox, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox topped the Altoona Curve. The Single-A Frederick Keys fell to the Winston-Salem Dash, and the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds were routed by the Brooklyn Cyclones.

The rookie-level Bluefield Orioles picked up their first win of the season by beating the Kingsport Mets, and the GCL Orioles pounded the GCL Rays. The game between the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds and Lakewood BlueClaws was suspended due to rain in the bottom of the third inning.

There are a couple transactions to be reported in the Orioles' minor league system.

The Tides placed outfielder Jeff Fiorentino on the disabled list with a sprained finger, and the team activated infielder Justin Turner from the DL.

Before Friday's game, the Keys placed outfielder Kraig Binick on the disabled list and activated second baseman Ryan Adams from the DL.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 4, Pawtucket Red Sox 1 (Box score)

Recap: Third baseman Melvin Dorta was 3-for-4 with two doubles, an RBI and a run scored to lead the Tides to a 4-1 win over Pawtucket at Harbor Park.

Norfolk center fielder Justin Christian was 3-for-4 with a stolen base and a run scored, and left fielder Joey Gathright added two hits in the victory.

Tides starting pitcher Jake Arrieta (1-2) gave up one run and seven hits in six innings, and relief pitcher Jim Miller tossed 1 1/3 scoreless innings for his 16th save of the season.

Designated hitter Michael Aubrey made his debut for the Tides, and he was 1-for-4 with a double, an RBI and a run scored. Also, Turner was 1-for-4 in his return from the disabled list.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 6, Altoona Curve 3 (Box score)

Recap: Second baseman Miguel Abreu was 3-for-4 with a double, an RBI and two runs scored as the Baysox beat Altoona, 6-3.

Bowie first baseman Eric Crozier collected two doubles, an RBI and a run scored, while left fielder Jonathan Tucker added a double, an RBI and a run scored.

Baysox starting pitcher John Mariotti allowed three runs (one earned) and five hits in five innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 24-year-old right-hander walked four batters and collected one strikeout.

Relief pitcher Chad Thall tossed two scoreless innings to pick up the victory for the Baysox, while Ryohei Tanaka blanked the Curve for two innings to earn his third save of the season.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Winston-Salem Dash 4, Frederick Keys 3 (Box score)

Recap: Second baseman Ryan Adams was 2-for-5 with an RBI double and a run scored in his first game since returning from the disabled list, but the Keys lost, 4-3, to Winston-Salem at Harry Grove Stadium.

Frederick starting pitcher Sean Gleason gave up three runs and seven hits in seven innings. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out seven batters and issued one walk.

Relief pitcher Joe Esposito (0-1) allowed one run and two hits in two innings for Frederick.

Keys first baseman Robbie Widlansky hit an RBI double, and center fielder Matt Angle scored a run.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

After 2 1/2 innings, the game between the Shorebirds and BlueClaws was suspended due to rain. There was no score in the matchup, which the two teams will resume at 6:05 p.m. Saturday. Following the completion of the suspended game, Delmarva and Lakewood will play a seven-inning contest.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Score: Brooklyn Cyclones 9, Aberdeen IronBirds 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Brandon Erbe only gave up a solo home run to Cyclones designated hitter Ralph Henriquez in three innings during his injury rehabilitation start, and the IronBirds suffered a 9-2 loss to Brooklyn at Ripken Stadium.

Aberdeen third baseman Garabez Rosa was 1-for-4 with a double and a run scored, and shortstop Blake Davis collected an RBI single.

IronBirds relief pitcher Tyler Sexton (1-1) allowed five runs and six hits in 4 1/3 innings, and Mick Mattaliano surrendered three runs and four hits in one inning.

Bluefield Orioles (Rookie)

Score: Bluefield Orioles 4, Kingsport Mets 1 (Box score)

Recap: Second baseman Omar Casamayor was 2-for-4 with a stolen base and two RBIs to lead the Orioles to their first win of the season, a 4-1 decision over Kingsport.

Bluefield left fielder Kipp Schutz was 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored, and designated hitter Edinho Meyer added two hits and a run scored.

Orioles starting pitcher Jorge Almanzar (1-0) struck out seven batters in five scoreless innings. The 22-year-old right-hander allowed three hits and issued two walks.

Relief pitcher Josh Dowdy, the Orioles' 38th-round selection in this year's MLB draft, collected five strikeouts in two scoreless innings for Bluefield.

GCL Orioles (Rookie)

Score: GCL Orioles 9, GCL Rays 2 (Box score)

Recap: Relief pitcher Eiri Ramirez (1-0) allowed one unearned run and five hits in six innings, and the Orioles cruised to a 9-2 win over the Rays.

Orioles starting pitcher Zach Clark retired all six batters he faced. The 25-year-old right-hander collected three strikeouts.

First baseman David Anderson was 3-for-5 with two doubles and four RBIs for the Orioles, and shortstop Anderson Childers was 2-for-3 with a triple and two runs scored.

Orioles right fielder Jaynnertt Melenciano added two RBIs and two runs scored, while designated hitter Bo Ford was 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 6:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides conclude their homestand tonight against the Pawtucket Red Sox at Harbor Park, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox travel to play the Altoona Curve.

The Single-A Frederick Keys host the Winston-Salem Dash at Harry Grove Stadium, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds meet the Lakewood BlueClaws on the road.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds face the Brooklyn Cyclones at Ripken Stadium.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Pawtucket Red Sox (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Jake Arrieta (0-2, 4.63 ERA)
Pawtucket: Kris Johnson (3-6, 6.40 ERA)

Notes

* Despite losing eight of their past 10 games, the Tides (40-32) are still in first place in the International League South Division. They lead the Gwinnett Braves (41-34) by 1/2 game, and the Durham Bulls (40-34) are one game behind. Pawtucket (39-33) is in third place in the North Division, trailing the first-place Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (41-30) by 2 1/2 games.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

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

Probable pitchers

Bowie: John Mariotti (2-5, 2.87 ERA)
Altoona: Daniel Moskos (4-6, 4.01 ERA)

Notes

* The Baysox (38-33) are in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division, and they trail the first-place Akron Aeros (48-23) by 10 games. Bowie is two games behind the Erie SeaWolves and Reading Phillies (both teams are 40-31) for a playoff berth. Altoona (26-46) is in last place in the division, and the Curve is 22 1/2 games behind Akron.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Winston-Salem Dash (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Sean Gleason (0-2, 4.82 ERA)
Winston-Salem: Jacob Rasner (1-0, 3.38 ERA)

Notes

* With last night's victory over Winston-Salem, the Keys started the second half with a 1-0 record. Frederick is currently tied with the Potomac Nationals for first place in the Carolina League Northern Division for the second half, and Winston-Salem is tied for last place in the Southern Division. Winston-Salem, however, won the first half in its division, so the Dash has already clinched a spot in the playoffs.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Lakewood BlueClaws (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Nathan Moreau (1-2, 4.55 ERA)
Lakewood: Jesus Sanchez (3-4, 4.43 ERA)

Notes

* The Shorebirds (1-0) currently sit in a four-way tie for first place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. Lakewood (0-1) is tied for last place, but the BlueClaws won the division during the first half.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Opponent

Brooklyn Cyclones (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Aberdeen: Brandon Erbe (0-0, 18.00 ERA)
Brooklyn: Mark Cohoon (1-0, 3.60 ERA)

Notes

* After last night's loss, the IronBirds dropped to 3-3 so far this season. Aberdeen is tied for second place in the New York-Penn League McNamara Division, and the IronBirds trail first-place Brooklyn (5-1) by two games. The Hudson Valley Renegades are also 3-3.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Double-A Bowie Baysox will hold a fundraiser on July 1 to help the family of a local teenager who died after allegedly being beaten by two others.

Christopher Jones, 14, died last month in Crofton after he was apparently attacked while riding his bicycle.

The Baysox are joining forces with Crofton Printing and Copy Centre and the Greater Crofton Chamber of Commerce on the event.

General admission tickets purchased at select Crofton businesses for Bowie's doubleheader on that day against the Akron Aeros will be $5 each, and all proceeds will be donated to the family. Tickets will not be available through the box office at Prince George's Stadium.

The first game of the doubleheader is set to begin at 6:05 p.m., and the second matchup will start approximately 30 minutes after the end of the other game.

For more information on the fundraiser, fans should visit Bowie's Web site or contact the Greater Crofton Chamber of Commerce at 410-721-9131.

Fans can purchase tickets at:

Ledo's Pizza of Crofton
1286 Rt. 3 South, Crofton

Crofton Printing and Copy Centre
2431 Crofton Lane, Suite 10

Vocelli's Pizza
1129 Rt. 3 North Crain Hwy.

Partyland
1166 Maryland Rt. 3 South
Crofton Princess Center

State Farm
2431 Crofton Lane, Suite 13

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

I know we've briefly discussed the Orioles' first-round pick in this year's MLB draft on O's on Deck.

Since California high school pitcher Matt Hobgood is apparently close to signing with the team, it seems like a good time to hear your expectations for the young right-hander.

The Baltimore Sun's Jeff Zrebiec reports that Hobgood arrived in Baltimore on Wednesday, and he is expected to sign his contract and be introduced to the crowd at Camden Yards before Saturday's game against the Washington Nationals.

From today's edition of The Baltimore Sun:

Orioles first-round draft pick Matt Hobgood arrived in Baltimore late Wednesday night and started his physical Thursday. Barring anything unforeseen, Hobgood, a right-handed pitcher out of Norco High in suburban Los Angeles, will sign his contract and be introduced to the Camden Yards crowd during Saturday's game against the Nationals.

"We basically got this thing done," Orioles director of amateur scouting Joe Jordan said. "He's just got to get through the physical process, and we'll sign the contract, and get this thing going."

It's definitely refreshing for the organization to take care of the first-round pick without heading down to the signing deadline, like the Orioles did in each of the past two seasons with Matt Wieters and Brian Matusz.

I also can't help but think that the timing of the introduction at Camden Yards -- while the Orioles are playing their "rival" from the other Beltway -- is a well-thought plan by the front office.

With that said, Hobgood will be able to take a slow path through the organization due to the abundance of quality starting pitchers at higher levels. He might not be in that ballpark again, honestly, for another five to six years or more.

What are your expectations for Hobgood's career?

Remember that he is a high school player, but he was also named the Player of the Year by USA Today and several analysts project him as a top-of-the-rotation starter in the future.

For some extra analysis, here is a link to Hobgood's high school statistics on MaxPreps.com.

Also, check out a photo gallery of Hobgood on The Baltimore Sun's Web site.

Here is some video from Baseball Beginnings of Hobgood's bullpen session at Camden Yards prior to the draft.

At first, I was skeptical about the pick, but I admit that I've slowly accepted the move by the front office. It makes sense because they have a surplus and can afford to be patient with Hobgood.

It will just take equal patience from the fans to see if the front office is rewarded for the selection.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (19)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides fell to the Pawtucket Red Sox this afternoon, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox blanked the Binghamton Mets tonight.

The Single-A Frederick Keys notched a come-from-behind victory over the Winston-Salem Dash, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds beat the Lakewood BlueClaws.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds lost to the Brooklyn Cyclones, and the rookie-level Bluefield Orioles were beaten by the Elizabethton Twins.

After tonight's game, shortstop Michael Mooney was added to Aberdeen's roster, according to the team. He was the Orioles' 23rd-round choice in this year's MLB draft. No corresponding move was immediately announced.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Pawtucket Red Sox 7, Norfolk Tides 4 (Box score)

Recap: Center fielder Joey Gathright was 3-for-5 with an RBI, but the Tides fell, 7-4, against Pawtucket at Harbor Park.

Norfolk first baseman Brandon Snyder was 2-for-4 with a double, a triple and two RBIs, while left fielder Justin Christian added two hits and two runs scored.

Tides starting pitcher David Pauley (5-6) gave up seven runs and 10 hits in five innings. The 26-year-old right-hander surrendered two home runs.

Relief pitcher Andy Mitchell tossed three scoreless innings for the Tides, and Kam Mickolio retired all three batters he faced.

Former Orioles relief pitchers Randor Bierd and Fernando Cabrera combined to set down the final six Tides hitters in order. Cabrera lowered his ERA to 1.06, and he picked up his International League-leading 16th save of the season.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 2, Binghamton Mets 0 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Radhames Liz (2-0) scattered three hits and one walk in seven scoreless innings as the Baysox beat Binghamton, 2-0. The 25-year-old right-hander struck out six batters.

Bowie center fielder Dave Krynzel paced the offense with three hits, including a double, while catcher Guillermo Rodriguez was 2-for-3 with a triple and a run scored.

Second baseman Miguel Abreu added an RBI double for the Baysox, and shortstop Robert Valido was 2-for-4 with a run scored.

Baysox relief pitcher Josh Perrault picked up his 13th save of the season after shutting down the Mets in order in the ninth inning.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 5, Winston-Salem Dash 4 (Box score)

Recap: Catcher Caleb Joseph hit a solo home run in the eighth inning, and the Keys came back from a three-run deficit to beat the Dash, 5-4, at Harry Grove Stadium to begin the second half.

First baseman Robbie Widlansky delivered a game-winning RBI single for the Keys with no outs in the bottom of the ninth.

Frederick right fielder Billy Rowell was 2-for-4 with two runs scored, and left fielder Tyler Henson added two hits, including an RBI triple.

Starting pitcher Pedro Beato allowed three runs and eight hits in six innings for the Keys, but he didn't factor in the decision. Frederick relief pitcher Luis Lebron (2-2) retired all three batters he faced in the ninth inning to earn the win.

Keys shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. was 2-for-3 with three stolen bases and a run scored.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 4, Lakewood BlueClaws 2 (Box score)

Recap: Second baseman L.J. Hoes was 1-for-4 with a double and two RBIs to lead the Shorebirds to a 4-2 win over Lakewood.

Delmarva designated hitter Joe Mahoney was 2-for-4 with a run scored, and third baseman Tyler Kolodny added a triple and a run scored.

Relief pitcher T.R. Keating (3-1) allowed one hit in 2 2/3 scoreless innings to pick up the victory for the Shorebirds, while Brandon Cooney tossed a scoreless frame for his 12th save of the season.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Chris Salberg gave up two runs (one earned) and five hits in 3 1/3 innings.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Score: Brooklyn Cyclones 8, Aberdeen IronBirds 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Patrick Kantakevich (0-1) allowed five runs and eight hits in 5 2/3 innings, and the IronBirds suffered an 8-2 loss to Brooklyn at Ripken Stadium.

Aberdeen first baseman Tom Edwards was 2-for-3 with a double, and designated hitter Levi Carolus added an RBI double and a run scored.

It was a rocky season debut for IronBirds relief pitcher Daniel Eastham. The 24-year-old right-hander walked one batter and hit two others. He also threw two wild pitches, allowing three runs without giving up a hit or retiring a batter.

Center fielder Steve Bumbry was 1-for-4 with an RBI single for the IronBirds.

Bluefield Orioles (Rookie)

Score: Elizabethton Twins 8, Bluefield Orioles 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Robert Bundy (0-1) allowed three runs (two earned) and three hits in four innings, and the Orioles lost, 8-2, to Elizabethton at Bowen Field.

Bluefield left fielder Luis Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a double and two RBIs, and first baseman Mike Flacco added a single and a run scored.

Orioles relief pitcher Justin Anderson, the team's 24th-round selection in this year's MLB draft, gave up three runs and five hits in two innings during his professional debut.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

New York Mets pitcher John Maine, who is currently on the 15-day disabled list with shoulder fatigue, will start for the Brooklyn Cyclones against the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds on Saturday at Ripken Stadium as part of his injury rehabilitation assignment.

The 28-year-old right-hander pitched for the IronBirds in 2002 on his way to the major leagues in the Orioles' minor league system. Maine was 1-1 with a 1.74 ERA in four games (two starts) for Aberdeen that year. He struck out 21 batters and issued only three walks in 10 1/3 innings.

Maine was 2-4 with a 6.60 ERA in parts of two seasons with the Orioles before being traded with relief pitcher Jorge Julio to the Mets on Jan. 22, 2006 for starting pitcher Kris Benson.

The Orioles' sixth-round selection in the 2002 MLB draft won a career-high 15 games for the Mets in 2007, and he finished sixth in the National League with 180 strikeouts. Maine is 5-4 with a 4.52 ERA in 11 starts for New York this season.

The IronBirds and Cyclones are scheduled to play at 7:05 p.m. Saturday at Ripken Stadium.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides continue their series against the Pawtucket Red Sox with an afternoon game at Harbor Park, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox play the Binghamton Mets on the road tonight.

The Single-A Frederick Keys begin the second half at Harry Grove Stadium against the Winston-Salem Dash, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds come out of the All-Star break with a road matchup against the Lakewood BlueClaws.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds face the Brooklyn Cyclones.

Along with the three pitchers who were promoted to the Keys yesterday -- Rick Zagone, Eddie Gamboa and Pat Egan -- the Shorebirds announced that Joe Esposito will head to Frederick.

Also, right-handed pitcher Patrick Kantakevich was transferred from Delmarva to Aberdeen, and left-handed pitcher Nathan Moreau headed back to the Shorebirds.

The Keys are less than 3,000 fans away from six million in franchise history, so they're likely to surpass that milestone at tonight's game.

Frederick will give a prize pack to the fan who is the six-millionth person to enter the stadium. The prizes include:

1. A Keys jersey with the No. 6
2. Autographed ball by the Keys
3. Two Keys Cafe tickets
4. Six Keys game tickets
5. Six Keys baseball hats
6. Matt Wieters bobblehead
7. Several more "six"-themed items and coupons

Yesterday, a few IronBirds players went to Rock State Park to participate in a summer camp for children of military personnel. Aberdeen infielder Tom Edwards (left) and right-handed pitcher James Brandhorst were among the players who talked to the kids during the event. A special thanks to the IronBirds for passing along the photo.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Pawtucket Red Sox (12:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Pauley (5-5, 3.76 ERA)
Pawtucket: Enrique Gonzalez (6-6, 5.35 ERA)

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Binghamton Mets (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Radhames Liz (1-0, 7.20 ERA)
Binghamton: Eric Niesen (0-2, 11.00 ERA)

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Winston-Salem Dash (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Pedro Beato (4-5, 4.63 ERA)
Winston-Salem: Johnnie Lowe (5-2, 4.10 ERA)

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Lakewood BlueClaws (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Chris Salberg (1-3, 6.80 ERA with Frederick this season)
Lakewood: Jason Knapp (2-5, 3.62 ERA)

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Opponent

Brooklyn Cyclones (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Aberdeen: Patrick Kantakevich (0-0, 6.43 ERA with Delmarva this season)
Brooklyn: Collin McHugh (1-0, 3.60 ERA)

Photo courtesy of the Aberdeen IronBirds

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides beat the Pawtucket Red Sox, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox relinquished a late lead against the Binghamton Mets.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds topped the Staten Island Yankees in extra innings.

The rookie-level Bluefield Orioles fell to the Elizabethton Twins, and the rookie-level Gulf Coast League Orioles failed to get a hit in a loss to the Gulf Coast League Twins.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 4, Pawtucket Red Sox 2 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Brandon Snyder was 3-for-4 with two doubles and two RBIs to lead the Tides to a 4-2 victory over Pawtucket at Harbor Park.

Norfolk third baseman Jolbert Cabrera collected two hits, including a solo home run, and right fielder Jeff Fiorentino hit a double and scored a run.

Starting pitcher David Hernandez retired all 12 batters he faced for the Tides before being removed after four innings. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out four hitters and threw 28 of his 40 pitches for strikes.

I sent e-mails to a few people asking why he was pulled early, and I'll pass along anything that I hear. It's a good possibility that he could be on his way back to Baltimore, but let's not get ahead of ourselves.

Tides relief pitcher Ross Wolf (4-2) tossed two scoreless innings to pick up the victory. The 26-year-old right-hander allowed one hit and collected two strikeouts.

Former Orioles relief pitcher Rocky Cherry surrendered two runs and three hits in 1 2/3 innings for Pawtucket. The 29-year-old right-hander is 2-0 with a 1.80 ERA in 23 appearances for the Red Sox this season.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Binghamton Mets 5, Bowie Baysox 4 (Box score)

Recap: Relief pitcher Josh Perrault (0-2) recorded only one out in the ninth inning, and he allowed three runs and four hits as the Baysox suffered a 5-4 loss to Binghamton.

Bowie designated hitter Ambiorix Concepcion was 2-for-4 with a two-run home run, and second baseman Miguel Abreu added two hits and an RBI.

First baseman Mike Costanzo was 1-for-3 with a walk and two runs scored, and catcher Adam Donachie also scored a run.

Baysox starting pitcher Bobby Livingston gave up two runs and 10 hits in six innings. The 26-year-old left-hander struck out two batters and issued one walk.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Score: Aberdeen IronBirds 4, Staten Island Yankees 3, 10 innings (Box score)

Recap: First baseman T.J. Baxter was 3-for-4 with two doubles, a stolen base, an RBI and a run scored in the IronBirds' 4-3 win over Staten Island in 10 innings at Ripken Stadium.

Aberdeen infielder Garabez Rosa added two hits and two RBIs, while designated hitter Zach Booker collected an RBI.

Starting pitcher Colin Allen allowed three runs in four innings for the IronBirds. The 22-year-old right-hander gave up two hits and issued three walks, but he didn't factor in the decision. Aberdeen relief pitcher Scott Mueller (1-0) retired all nine batters he faced to pick up the victory.

IronBirds catcher Brian Ward was 2-for-3 with a walk.

Bluefield Orioles (Rookie)

Score: Elizabethton Twins 4, Bluefield Orioles 1 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Vito Frabizio only allowed one hit in 6 1/3 scoreless innings, but the Orioles fell to Elizabethton, 4-1, at Bowen Field. The 19-year-old right-hander struck out nine batters and issued three walks.

Bluefield first baseman Mike Flacco collected his first professional hit when he tripled in the bottom of the eighth inning, and left fielder Jose Kianes was 2-for-4 with an RBI.

Orioles relief pitcher Thomas Phelps (0-1) gave up four runs and five hits in 1 2/3 innings, and Chase Phillips pitched a scoreless inning.

GCL Orioles (Rookie)

Score: GCL Twins 5, GCL Orioles 0 (Box score)

Recap: Three Twins pitchers combined to no-hit the Orioles in a 5-0 loss. A double play in the eighth inning erased a one-out walk to Orioles designated hitter Xavier Lopez, eliminating the team's only base runner.

Twins starting pitcher B.J. Hermsen tossed six innings, relief pitcher Dakota Watts walked one batter in two innings, and Jose Gonzalez finished with a scoreless inning.

Starting pitcher Angel Cespedes (0-1) gave up three runs (one earned) and five hits in seven innings for the Orioles. The 19-year-old right-hander collected two strikeouts and issued two walks.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Orioles first-round draft pick Matt Hobgood continues to receive accolades for his high school accomplishments.

After being selected as the Gatorade National Baseball Player of the Year earlier this month, the 18-year-old right-hander was honored by USA Today as the Player of the Year for the publication's 2009 All-USA baseball team earlier today.

Hobgood, who is expected to sign with the Orioles this weekend, was 11-1 with a 0.92 ERA and 101 strikeouts in 68 1/3 innings for Norco (Calif.) High School this spring.

The right-handed pitcher also proved to be solid at the plate, batting .475 with 21 home runs and 55 RBIs in his senior year.

Hobgood possesses a mid-90s fastball and three other pitches he can command for strikes, which some analysts say could help him to be a top-of-the-rotation starting pitcher in the future.

Orioles second-round selection Mychal Givens was named to the second team after hitting .374 with 31 RBIs for Plant (Fla.) High School this season. The 6-foot-2, 185-pound infielder is also an accomplished right-handed pitcher.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 5:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

Left-handed pitcher Rick Zagone, who started yesterday's South Atlantic League All-Star Game for the North Division team, was one of three players promoted to the Single-A Frederick Keys, the team announced today.

Zagone was 4-5 with a 4.66 ERA in 13 games (12 starts) for the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds. The 22-year-old pitcher, who was selected in the sixth round of the 2008 MLB draft, struggled in his four starts with Delmarva in June. He was 0-2 with a 16.50 ERA in 12 innings during that span.

Also being promoted to Frederick from the Shorebirds were relief pitchers Pat Egan and Eddie Gamboa.

So far in 2009, Egan is 1-0 with a 2.58 ERA and two saves in 16 games while splitting time between the Shorebirds and Double-A Bowie Baysox.

Gamboa was 6-0 with a 1.86 ERA in 18 appearances for the Shorebirds.

In order to make room for the three pitchers with the Keys, left-hander Chris Salberg and right-handers Cliff Flagello and Andrew Barb were sent to Delmarva.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

The Orioles acquired first baseman Michael Aubrey from the Cleveland Indians for a player to be named later, according to the Associated Press.

In 57 games this season with the Triple-A Columbus Clippers, Aubrey batted .292 with five home runs and 29 RBIs. The 27-year-old first baseman is tied for 13th in the International League with 16 doubles.

Aubrey hit .200 (9-for-45) with two home runs and three RBIs in 15 games for the Indians last season. Cleveland's 2003 first-round selection -- No. 11 overall -- also played for the Double-A Akron Aeros and Triple-A Buffalo Bisons in 2008. Aubrey batted .282 with two home runs and 16 RBIs in 25 games for the Aeros, and he hit .281 with seven home runs and 37 RBIs in 72 games for Buffalo.

In seven minor league seasons, Aubrey holds a .295 batting average with 53 home runs and 260 RBIs. His best year came in 2004 when he batted .310 with 15 home runs and 82 RBIs while splitting time between Akron and the Single-A Kinston Indians.

Aubrey's biggest downside is that he has never played more than 98 games in a single season due to injuries.

I haven't heard where Aubrey will be assigned, but it's likely that the veteran will join the Triple-A Norfolk Tides due to his experience at the level. If that's the case, the Orioles could possibly adjust Brandon Snyder's role and give him more playing time at third base.

Of course, that's all speculation and we'll have to wait and see about the specifics.

What are your thoughts on the trade?

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (22)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides host the Pawtucket Red Sox at Harbor Park, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox continue their series on the road against the Binghamton Mets.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds face the Staten Island Yankees at Ripken Stadium.

The Single-A Frederick Keys and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds are both idle tonight.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Pawtucket Red Sox (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Hernandez (3-2, 3.54 ERA)
Pawtucket: Michael Bowden (3-3, 3.26 ERA)

Notes

* Despite back-to-back losses, the Tides (39-31) remain in first place in the International League South Division. Norfolk holds a 1/2-game lead over the Gwinnett Braves (40-33). Pawtucket (38-32) is in second place in the North Division, trailing the first-place Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (41-28) by 3 1/2 games.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Binghamton Mets (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Bobby Livingston (5-2, 3.97 ERA)
Binghamton: Mike Antonini (4-2, 5.37 ERA)

Notes

* The Baysox (37-32) remain in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division, trailing the first-place Akron Aeros (47-22) by 10 games. Bowie is three games behind the Erie SeaWolves (40-29) for a playoff berth. Binghamton (26-43) is in last place in the Northern Division, and the Mets are 12 1/2 games behind the division-leading Connecticut Defenders (39-31).

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Opponent

Staten Island Yankees (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Aberdeen: Colin Allen (0-1, 7.50 ERA)
Staten Island: Shaeffer Hall (professional debut)

Notes

* Following last night's game, the IronBirds (2-2) dropped into second place in the New York-Penn League McNamara Division. They trail the first-place Brooklyn Cyclones (3-1) by one game, and Staten Island (1-3) is in last place in the division.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

Before the Orioles host the Washington Nationals in a three-game series this weekend at Camden Yards, the mascots of the two teams will take part in a competition at ESPN Zone.

The second annual "Battle of the Birds" begins at 4 p.m. on Friday afternoon, and it is tentatively scheduled to last one hour.

The Oriole Bird and Screech, the Washington Nationals' mascot, will take part in several challenges, including tug of war, arm wrestling, free-throw shooting, horse racing and more. A golden birdhouse trophy will be awarded to the winning mascot.

After the contest, both mascots will sign autographs and pose for photographs with fans.

It's not technically about the Orioles' minor league system, but I'm going to be working for The Baltimore Sun at the event and talking with fans. So, come out to the Inner Harbor and get fired up before the weekend series.

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

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost in extra innings to the Pawtucket Red Sox at Harbor Park, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox beat the Binghamton Mets on the road.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds fell to the Staten Island Yankees at Ripken Stadium.

The rookie-level Bluefield Orioles dropped their season opener to the Elizabethton Twins, while the rookie-level GCL Orioles beat the GCL Reds.

The Single-A Frederick Keys were idle, but five players participated in the California/Carolina League All-Star Game. Two players participated in the South Atlantic League All-Star Game for the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds, who also didn't play tonight.

Baysox left-hander Wilfrido Perez was activated from the disabled list prior to tonight's game, and relief pitcher Ryan Rodriguez was transferred to Frederick. Perez tossed a scoreless inning in Bowie's win.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Pawtucket Red Sox 6, Norfolk Tides 5, 10 innings (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Chris Tillman allowed two runs and seven hits in six innings, but the Tides suffered a 6-5 loss in 10 innings to Pawtucket. The 21-year-old right-hander collected three strikeouts and didn't walk anyone.

Norfolk infielder Melvin Dorta was 3-for-4 with a double and an RBI, while catcher Chad Moeller added a double and two RBIs.

Left fielder Justin Christian and designated hitter Jolbert Cabrera each collected two hits for the Tides, and infielder Brandon Snyder was 0-for-3 with a walk. Snyder is now batting .118 (2-for-17) with two RBIs in five games at Norfolk.

Norfolk relief pitcher Jim Miller (2-2) gave up two runs and three hits in two innings, and Ross Wolf gave up two runs, two hits and two walks without recording an out in the seventh inning.

The Tides hit into a triple play in the fifth inning, which was the first time that happened since June 26, 2006 on the road against the Toledo Mud Hens, according to the team.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 7, Binghamton Mets 3 (Box score)

Recap: Center fielder Dave Krynzel was 3-for-5 with a three-run home run to lead the Baysox to a 7-3 win on the road against Binghamton.

Bowie starting pitcher Tim Bascom (2-0), who took Brian Matusz's turn in the rotation, allowed three runs and nine hits in five innings. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out two batters and issued one walk.

Third baseman Mike Costanzo was 2-for-5 with a run scored for the Baysox, while right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion and second baseman Miguel Abreu each added a double and a run scored.

The first seven batters in Bowie's lineup scored one run each.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Score: Staten Island Yankees 5, Aberdeen IronBirds 1 (Box score)

Recap: Second baseman Mike Gioioso was 1-for-2 with an RBI single, but the IronBirds' offense slumped in a 5-1 loss to Staten Island.

Aberdeen starting pitcher Nicholas Haughian (0-1) gave up two runs (one earned) and four hits in five innings. The 22-year-old left-hander collected six strikeouts and walked one batter.

Relief pitcher James Brandhorst retired all three batters he faced in his professional debut for Aberdeen.

IronBirds shortstop Garabez Rosa was 1-for-4 with a double.

Bluefield Orioles (Rookie)

Score: Elizabethton Twins 8, Bluefield Orioles 2 (Box score)

Recap: Batting fourth, designated hitter Mike Flacco was 0-for-4 with a strikeout in his professional debut during the Orioles' 8-2 loss to Elizabethton.

Bluefield right fielder Luis Ramirez was 1-for-4 with an RBI, and shortstop Javier Santana and second baseman Omar Casamayor each scored a run.

Starting pitcher Jesse Beal (0-1) gave up six runs and 10 hits in four innings for the Orioles. The 18-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and didn't walk anyone.

GCL Orioles (Rookie)

Score: GCL Orioles 5, GCL Reds 0 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Jaynnertt Melenciano was 4-for-5 with a run scored in the Orioles' 5-0 victory over the Reds in the Gulf Coast League.

Orioles shortstop Moises Ciriaco was 2-for-4 with two RBIs, and third baseman Anyi Tejeda added two hits, including a double.

Starting pitcher Zach Clark, who is recovering from a shoulder injury, allowed two hits in one scoreless inning for the Orioles before being removed from the game.

Orioles relief pitcher Zachary Petersime (1-0) tossed five scoreless innings to pick up the win. The 20-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and issued one walk.

Right-hander Daurin Tavarez didn't give up any runs in the final three innings to pick up his first save of the season for the Orioles.

California/Carolina League All-Star Game (A)

Score: California League All-Stars 2, Carolina League All-Stars 1, 10 innings (Box score)

Recap: Keys shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. was 1-for-3 with a triple and a run scored, but the Carolina League All-Stars fell to the California League All-Stars in 10 innings.

Frederick first baseman Brandon Waring was 0-for-4 with a walk and two strikeouts, while catcher Caleb Joseph didn't get a hit in two at-bats for the Carolina League All-Stars.

Keys relief pitcher Luis Lebron tossed a scoreless inning, and starting pitcher Zach Britton didn't play in the game. Florimon and Waring played all 10 innings, while Joseph entered as a defensive replacement in the bottom of the fifth inning.

South Atlantic League All-Star Game (A)

Score: North All-Stars 8, South All-Stars 7 (Box score)

Recap: Shorebirds right fielder Ronnie Welty was 1-for-2, and he scored the game-winning run in the North Division's 8-7 win over the South Division in the 50th annual South Atlantic League All-Star Game.

Delmarva pitcher Rick Zagone started the game for the North Division, and he allowed one hit in one scoreless inning. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out two batters and issued one walk.

Lake County Captains infielder Karexon Sanchez earned Most Valuable Player honors after going 2-for-2 with a double, two RBIs and two runs scored to lead the North Division, while Lakewood BlueClaws catcher Travis D'Arnaud added two RBIs.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game recaps
        

For the second consecutive week, a Single-A Frederick Keys player was honored as the Carolina League Player of the Week.

After Frederick center fielder Matt Angle received the award last week, outfielder Robbie Widlansky was selected for the week ending on June 21.

Widlansky batted .500 (12-for-24) with six RBIs and six runs scored during that span.

The 24-year-old outfielder was added to the Keys from extended spring training on May 19. In his first 20 games with Frederick, Widlansky has at least two hits in 11 contests. Overall, he is hitting .431 with 15 RBIs and 14 runs scored.

The Orioles selected Widlansky in the 11th round of the 2007 MLB draft.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides welcome the Pawtucket Red Sox to Harbor Park, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox hit the road to play the Binghamton Mets.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds host the Staten Island Yankees at Ripken Stadium.

Five Single-A Frederick Keys players will take part in the California/Carolina League All-Star Game, which is being played tonight in Lake Elsinore, Calif., while two players from the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds are set to play for the Northern Division All-Star team in the 50th annual South Atlantic League All-Star Game at Appalachian Power Park in Charleston, W.Va.

It's important to note that Baysox starting pitcher Brian Matusz won't make tonight's start as originally planned. There's no need for Orioles fans to panic, however, because Matusz is apparently healthy. The team just wanted to give him some extra rest. Ironically, the 22-year-old left-hander was named to the Carolina League All-Star team tonight, but he won't pitch for that team either.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Pawtucket Red Sox (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Tillman (5-4, 2.55 ERA)
Pawtucket: Charlie Zink (4-6, 4.34 ERA)

Notes

* Despite losing seven of their past 10 games, the Tides (39-30) are clinging to a one-game lead over the Durham Bulls (39-32) in the International League South Division. Pawtucket (37-32) is in second place in the North Division, and the Red Sox are 4 1/2 games behind the first-place Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees (41-27).

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at Binghamton Mets (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: TBA
Binghamton: Jenrry Mejia (0-2, 2.25 ERA)

Notes

* The Baysox (36-32) are currently in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division, and they trail the first-place Akron Aeros (46-22) by 10 games. Binghamton (26-42) is in last place in the Northern Division. The Mets are 12 1/2 games behind the division-leading Connecticut Defenders.

Frederick Keys (A)

Game

California/Carolina League All-Star Game

Time and location

10:05 p.m. at The Diamond in Lake Elsinore, Calif.

Notes

* The Keys were scheduled to send six players to California for the game, but starting pitcher Brian Matusz was promoted to Bowie after he was selected.

First baseman Brandon Waring, shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr., catcher Caleb Joseph, starting pitcher Zach Britton and relief pitcher Luis Lebron will represent Frederick.

Waring is scheduled to represent the Carolina League All-Stars in the home run derby, which will take place before tonight's game.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Game

South Atlantic League All-Star Game

Time and location

7:35 p.m. at Appalachian Power Park in Charleston, W.Va.

Notes

* Starting pitcher Rick Zagone and outfielder Ronnie Welty were the two Shorebirds players who were selected to represent the Northern Division.

Zagone is 4-5 with a 4.66 ERA in 13 games (12 starts) for Delmarva, and he has struggled lately. The 22-year-old left-hander hasn't earned a win since May 21, and he has allowed 22 runs and 25 hits in 12 innings this month.

Welty is batting .314 with six home runs and 35 RBIs in 63 games for the Shorebirds. The 21-year-old outfielder is tied for 12th in the South Atlantic League with 71 hits, and he is tied for 13th in the league with 37 runs scored.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Opponent

Staten Island Yankees (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Aberdeen: Nicholas Haughian (0-2, 9.60 ERA with Aberdeen in 2008)
Staten Island: Trenton Lare (2-3, 2.34 ERA with independent league Kalamazoo Kings this season)

Notes

* With last night's win in the home opener, Aberdeen moved into a three-way tie for first place in the New York-Penn League McNamara Division. The IronBirds, Brooklyn Cyclones and Hudson Valley Renegades are each 2-1 so far this season. Staten Island (0-3) is still searching for its first victory in 2009, and the Yankees are currently two games behind the three division leaders.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

Aberdeen IronBirds outfielder Steve Bumbry and other players will make a trip to Rock State Park on Wednesday to visit a camp for the children of military personnel, the team announced today.

Al Bumbry, a former Orioles outfielder and Steve's father, was one of only six Vietnam veterans to play in the major leagues, according to the IronBirds.

Children ages 7 to 12 with parents on deployment in the National Guard or U.S. Army, as well as kids with parents who are scheduled to be deployed, are eligible to attend the camp.

Approximately 70 children attend the camp, and the IronBirds will be visiting from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

Please keep in mind that this is a private event. The IronBirds will make other public appearances in the future, so remember to check out the team's Web site for news and information.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides were routed by the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, while the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds blanked the Staten Island Yankees.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox, Single-A Frederick Keys and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds were all idle tonight.

In case you missed it, here is my live coverage from the IronBirds' win over Staten Island.

Also, relief pitcher Joe Esposito was promoted from Delmarva to Frederick earlier today, according to the team. In order to make room for Esposito, the Keys placed left-hander Brett Bordes on the disabled list, retroactive to June 21.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Lehigh Valley IronPigs 11, Norfolk Tides 1, 6 innings (Box score)

Recap: Shortstop Jolbert Cabrera hit an RBI single in the first inning for the Tides, but the weather and Lehigh Valley owned the rest of the night.

After a lengthy rain delay at Harbor Park, the IronPigs defeated the Tides, 11-1, in six innings.

Norfolk starting pitcher Jake Arrieta gave up one hit in one scoreless inning before being removed from the game after the delay. Tides relief pitcher Andy Mitchell (4-2) allowed eight runs (seven earned) and seven hits in two-plus innings.

Tides left fielder Joey Gathright was 3-for-3 with a run scored.

Relief pitcher Chris Waters surrendered three runs and five hits in 2 2/3 innings for Norfolk.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Score: Aberdeen IronBirds 2, Staten Island Yankees 0 (Box score)

Recap: Second baseman Garabez Rosa hit a two-run home run in the bottom of the sixth inning, and the IronBirds held on for a 2-0 victory over Staten Island in the home opener at Ripken Stadium.

After the game, Rosa expressed his pleasure in playing in front of such a large crowd. The announced attendance was 6,658 people.

Aberdeen starting pitcher Kenny Moreland (1-0) tossed six scoreless innings. The 23-year-old right-hander allowed five hits and collected three strikeouts.

"My defense behind me was solid the entire day," Moreland said.

"You feel good for the guys because they went out there, and we pitched and we got some timely hits," IronBirds manager Gary Kendall said. "We played very good defense."

Center fielder Steve Bumbry, who received a loud applause from the home crowd several times throughout the night, was 0-for-1 with two walks and a stolen base for the IronBirds.

"It's a lot easier when you're in center field because you get to see the ball coming into the batter," said Bumbry, who showed above-average defensive range in tonight's game.

IronBirds relief pitcher Mick Mattaliano pitched around a leadoff walk in the ninth inning for his first save of the season.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The IronBirds preserved a 2-0 victory over Staten Island in the home opener at Ripken Stadium in front of an announced crowd of 6,658.

Aberdeen relief pitcher Jose Barajas tossed two scoreless innings, and Mick Mattaliano closed out the win after walking the leadoff batter in the ninth.

IronBirds second baseman Garabez Rosa was the offensive hero with a two-run home run in the bottom of the sixth inning, and shortstop Blake Davis was 1-for-3 with a run scored.

Steve Bumbry made a couple impressive plays in center field for Aberdeen. He had a stolen base, but was also caught stealing once.

I'm heading down to the clubhouse to talk to some of the IronBirds players, but don't forget to check out O's on Deck for full game recaps later tonight.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

IronBirds starting pitcher Kenny Moreland is finished for the evening after tossing six scoreless innings. The 23-year-old right-hander threw 47 of his 68 pitches for strikes.

Moreland allowed five hits, and he struck out three batters.

Relief pitcher Jose Barajas entered the game to begin the top of the seventh inning for Aberdeen. After a leadoff walk to Staten Island catcher Kyle Higashioka, Barajas retired the next three batters to preserve the 2-0 lead.

Aberdeen center fielder Steve Bumbry walked with one out in the bottom of the seventh. After pinch hitter Richard D'Oleo flied out to left field, Bumbry was caught stealing to end the bottom of the seventh.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

IronBirds center fielder Steve Bumbry made a tremendous running catch in the top of the fifth inning to rob Staten Island second baseman Hector Rabago of a base hit.

Bumbry broke for the ball immediately and made the catch as he sprinted into the left-center field gap. He almost made another catch over the shoulder to deep center field, but the ball dropped in for a double by Yankees right fielder DeAngelo Mack.

With one out in the bottom of the fifth, Bumbry walked and promptly stole second base. After a walk to Aberdeen left fielder Lance West, catcher Brian Ward grounded into an inning-ending double play.

IronBirds starting pitcher Kenny Moreland allowed a leadoff single to Staten Island center fielder Francisco Santana. After Yankees shortstop Carmen Angelini popped out to second base, Ward threw out Santana attempting to steal. Then, Staten Island first baseman Rob Lyerly struck out to end the top of the sixth.

Shortstop Blake Davis singled to right field with two outs for the IronBirds in the bottom of the sixth, and second baseman Garabez Rosa launched a two-run home run onto the roof of the visitors' clubhouse in left field.

Through six innings, the IronBirds lead, 2-0.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

The IronBirds collected their first base runners in the bottom of the third inning.

With one out, Aberdeen catcher Brian Ward walked, and right fielder Arthur Bonevacia singled into left field to put runners on first and second base.

The brief offensive threat ended, however, when IronBirds third baseman Tyler Kelly lined to third base and Ward was doubled off second to end the inning.

IronBirds starting pitcher Kenny Moreland allowed back-to-back singles in the top of the fourth, but he escaped by getting Staten Island left fielder Neil Medchill to ground into an inning-ending double play.

Moreland threw all eight of his pitches for strikes in the fourth inning. Through the first four innings, he has thrown 31 of his 42 pitches for strikes.

Aberdeen shortstop Blake Davis struck out to lead off the bottom of the fourth. Second baseman Garabez Rosa flied out to center field, and first baseman T.J. Baxter grounded out to second base to end the inning.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

IronBirds starting pitcher Kenny Moreland looked impressive in the first inning. The 23-year-old right-hander retired the side in order, throwing eight of his 12 pitches for strikes.

The first two Staten Island hitters -- center fielder Francisco Santana and shortstop Carmen Angelini -- flied out to Aberdeen center fielder Steve Bumbry, and Yankees first baseman Rob Lyerly struck out to end the inning.

The IronBirds went quietly in the bottom of the first. Third baseman Tyler Kelly struck out swinging to lead off the game. Aberdeen shortstop Blake Davis grounded out to second base, and second baseman Garabez Rosa grounded out to first base for the final out.

Moreland retired the first two batters in the second inning before Staten Island third baseman Kelvin Castro singled to right field. Then, Moreland retired Yankees second baseman Hector Rabago on a groundout to third base.

Aberdeen first baseman T.J. Baxter hit a hard ground ball back at Yankees starting pitcher Francisco Rondon to begin the bottom of the second. Designated hitter Levi Carolus grounded out to third base for the Shorebirds, and Bumbry hit a slow roller in front of home plate to end the inning.

Through two innings, there is still no score at Ripken Stadium.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Good evening to everyone from the press box at Ripken Stadium.

It seems to be a nice night for baseball, but there are some dark clouds out in the distance. I'm not sure if rain is in the forecast, so we'll see if the game is delayed at any point tonight.

So far this season, the IronBirds have a 1-1 record. They split a series on the road with the Hudson Valley Renegades, and one of the matchups was postponed until next month.

InsideTheOs.com's Michael Jaffe spoke to Brandon Erbe and Blake Davis prior to the game about the recovery from their respective injuries. Both players are in Aberdeen on an injury rehabilitation assignment.

Here are some notes about tonight's game, courtesy of the two teams:

• The IronBirds are 3-3 in Opening Day games at Ripken Stadium, and their last win in a home opener was in 2007. Aberdeen defeated Hudson Valley, 12-1, on June 19, 2007.

• Aberdeen plays its first 12 games of the season against opponents from within the McNamara Division of the New York-Penn League. The IronBirds were 12-21 against teams in the division.

• Staten Island dropped its first two games of the 2009 season to the Brooklyn Cyclones. The Yankees were defeated, 5-2, in six innings on Sunday afternoon.

• There are nine players from the 2009 MLB draft on Staten Island, and first baseman Rob Lyerly is the highest pick (sixth round). Other notable players on the Yankees are the organization's eighth-round selection, left-handed pitcher Samuel Elam, and the 13th-round choice, outfielder DeAngelo Mack.

Here are tonight's lineups:

STATEN ISLAND YANKEES (0-2)

Francisco Santana CF
Carmen Angelini SS
Rob Lyerly 1B
Kyle Higashioka C
Neil Medchill LF
Kelvin Castro 3B
Hector Rabago 2B
DeAngelo Mack RF
Jimmy Parades DH

Francisco Rondon LHP

ABERDEEN IRONBIRDS (1-1)

Tyler Kelly 3B
Blake Davis SS
Garabez Rosa 2B
T.J. Baxter 1B
Levi Carolus DH
Steve Bumbry CF
Lance West LF
Brian Ward C
Arthur Bonevacia RF

Kenny Moreland RHP

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 6:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides host the Lehigh Valley IronPigs at Harbor Park, and the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds will play their home opener at Ripken Stadium tonight against the Staten Island Yankees.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox are idle today, while the Single-A Frederick Keys and Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds have entered the All-Star break.

I'll be in the press box at the IronBirds' matchup against Staten Island, and I hope to provide updates.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Lehigh Valley IronPigs (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Jake Arrieta (0-2, 5.06 ERA)
Lehigh Valley: Kyle Kendrick (4-4, 3.70 ERA)

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Opponent

Staten Island Yankees (7:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Aberdeen: Kenny Moreland (1-0, 1.93 ERA with Frederick this season)
Staten Island: Francisco Rondon (2-1, 3.22 ERA with GCL Yankees in 2008)

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides snapped a five-game losing streak with a victory over the Lehigh Valley IronPigs at Harbor Park, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox slumped to a loss against the New Britain Rock Cats at Prince George's Stadium.

The Single-A Frederick Keys fell to the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds defeated the Hagerstown Suns at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds collected their first victory of the 2009 season by beating the Hudson Valley Renegades.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 4, Lehigh Valley IronPigs 2 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Jeff Fiorentino was 3-for-4 with a solo home run, a double and four runs scored in the Tides' 4-2 win over Lehigh Valley.

The 26-year-old outfielder is batting .378 with four doubles, six RBIs and 10 runs scored in his past 10 games. Overall, Fiorentino is hitting .314 with five home runs and 30 RBIs in 44 games since being recalled from Bowie.

Norfolk second baseman Melvin Dorta was 3-for-3 with a double and an RBI, while third baseman Brandon Pinckney and catcher Chad Moeller each added an RBI.

Tides starting pitcher Troy Patton (1-1) allowed one run and seven hits in six innings. The 23-year-old left-hander threw 50 of his 79 pitches for strikes, and he walked one and collected one strikeout.

Relief pitcher Chris Ray gave up one run and one hit in one inning for the Tides. In eight appearances, the 27-year-old right-hander is 0-1 with a 2.25 ERA.

Norfolk closer Jim Miller tossed a scoreless inning to earn his 15th save of the season, which is the best in the International League.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: New Britain Rock Cats 9, Bowie Baysox 1 (Box score)

Recap: One ugly inning buried the Baysox in a hole that was too deep for the team to make a recovery.

Bowie shortstop Robert Valido committed an error with two outs in the top of the fifth, and the Rock Cats followed with a walk and five straight singles to build a 5-0 lead.

Starting pitcher John Mariotti (2-5) once again suffered from bad luck for the Baysox. The 24-year-old right-hander allowed five unearned runs and seven hits in 4 2/3 innings, but his ERA lowered to 2.87 in nine starts since being promoted.

"I was rushing a little bit with some of my pitches, but I made some adjustments," Mariotti said. "I felt like I threw pretty decent. There weren't too many hard hits."

Baysox center fielder Dave Krynzel was 3-for-4 with a double and an RBI, while right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion added two hits, including a double.

"It felt good to have some good [at-bats], hit a couple balls hard," Krynzel said. "I've been working real hard the last couple days with [Baysox field coach] Moe [Hill] to figure some mechanical things out."

Relief pitcher Ryohei Tanaka retired all three batters he faced for the Baysox. The 26-year-old right-hander hasn't allowed a run in his first five appearances (seven innings) since joining the team.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Myrtle Beach Pelicans 7, Frederick Keys 5 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Robbie Widlansky was 3-for-4 with two runs scored, but the Keys fell to Myrtle Beach, 7-5, in the final game of the first half. The 24-year-old outfielder is batting .431 with 15 RBIs in 20 games since joining Frederick.

First baseman Wally Crancer was 2-for-4 with three RBIs for the Keys, and designated hitter Brandon Waring added an RBI.

Frederick shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. hit a double, and center fielder Matt Angle picked up his 22nd stolen base of the season.

Keys starting pitcher Sean Gleason gave up three runs and five hits in six innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. Relief pitcher Jake Stevens (2-4) was charged with the loss for Frederick after allowing four runs and four hits in two innings.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Delmarva Shorebirds 3, Hagerstown Suns 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Oliver Drake (3-4) gave up two runs and five hits in seven innings, and the Shorebirds held on for a 3-2 victory over Hagerstown. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out six batters and issued two walks.

Delmarva left fielder Kyle Hudson was 1-for-3 with an RBI double, and catcher Brendan Monaghan added an RBI and a run scored.

First baseman Elvin Polanco collected an RBI for the Shorebirds, and right fielder Brian Conley was 1-for-3 with a double and a run scored.

Shorebirds relief pitcher Brandon Cooney didn't allow any runs in two innings to pick up his 11th save of the season.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Score: Aberdeen IronBirds 8, Hudson Valley Renegades 3 (Box score)

Recap: Brandon Erbe struggled in his first injury rehabilitation appearance for the IronBirds, but they were able to rebound for an 8-3 win over Hudson Valley.

The 21-year-old right-hander allowed a solo home run to Renegades leadoff hitter Brett Nommensen.

Erbe gave up two runs and four hits in one inning, and the McDonogh graduate also threw two wild pitches. He surrendered as many earned runs against Hudson Valley (two) as he did in 20 innings for the Baysox at the beginning of the season.

Aberdeen shortstop Garabez Rosa was 3-for-4 with two RBIs and two runs scored. The 19-year-old infielder was a home run shy of the cycle.

Blake Davis, who is also playing for the IronBirds on an injury rehabilitation assignment, was 4-for-6 with four singles while serving as the designated hitter.

IronBirds second baseman Tyler Kelly was 2-for-6 with a double, an RBI and two runs scored, and third baseman Tom Edwards added two hits and a run scored.

Tyler Sexton (1-0) relieved Erbe and allowed only one unearned run and six hits in six innings. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out six batters and issued one walk.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides look to snap a five-game losing streak when they face the Lehigh Valley IronPigs at Harbor Park, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox host the New Britain Rock Cats at Prince George's Stadium.

The Single-A Frederick Keys look to sweep the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds play the Hagerstown Suns at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds finish their road trip against the Hudson Valley Renegades.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Lehigh Valley IronPigs (1:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Troy Patton (0-1, 7.50 ERA)
Lehigh Valley: Drew Carpenter (6-0, 2.91 ERA)

Notes

* Despite losing five consecutive games, the Tides (38-29) remain in first place with a one-game lead in the International League South Division because the Durham Bulls (38-31) have dropped seven straight decisions. Lehigh Valley (32-36) is in fifth place in the North Division, and the IronPigs trail the first-place Scranton-Wilkes/Barre Yankees (41-25) by 10 games.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

New Britain Rock Cats (2:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: John Mariotti (2-4, 3.14 ERA)
New Britain: Cole DeVries (4-5, 3.27 ERA)

Notes

* The Baysox (36-31) are still in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division, but they are only three games behind the second-place Reading Phillies (39-28) for a playoff berth. The division-leading Akron Aeros (45-22) hold a nine-game advantage over Bowie. The Rock Cats (35-32) are 2 1/2 games behind the first-place Connecticut Defenders (38-30) in the Northern Division.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Myrtle Beach Pelicans (6:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Sean Gleason (0-2, 4.97 ERA)
Myrtle Beach: Erik Cordier (3-2, 2.38 ERA)

Notes

* The first half wraps up today in the Carolina League, and the Keys (31-37) will finish in last place in the Northern Division. Frederick is 14 games behind the division-leading Lynchburg Hillcats (45-23), but the standings reset for the second half. Myrtle Beach (24-42) is in last place in the Southern Division, and the Pelicans trail the first-place Winston-Salem Dash (37-29) by 13 games.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Hagerstown Suns (2:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: TBA
Hagerstown: TBA

Notes

* With only three wins in their past 10 games, the Shorebirds (35-33) dropped into fourth place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. Delmarva trails the first-place Lakewood BlueClaws (41-25) by seven games, while Hagerstown (31-35) is 10 games behind the division leaders and in sixth place. The first half concludes today.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Opponent

at Hudson Valley Renegades (1:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Aberdeen: Brandon Erbe (1-3, 0.90 ERA with Bowie this season)
Hudson Valley: Kyle Lobstein (professional debut)

Notes

* Aberdeen (0-1) lost the first game of the season on Friday, but last night's game was rained out and will be made up next month. Erbe is being held to a limited pitch count for today's start against Hudson Valley, and left-hander Tyler Sexton is scheduled to take over for him.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost to the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox jumped out to an early lead and cruised to a win over the New Britain Rock Cats.

The Single-A Frederick Keys survived against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds split a doubleheader with the Hagerstown Suns.

The game between the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds and the Hudson Valley Renegades was postponed due to rain.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Lehigh Valley IronPigs 5, Norfolk Tides 3 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher David Pauley (5-5) allowed four runs (three earned) and six hits in seven innings, and the Tides fell to Lehigh Valley, 5-3.

Norfolk center fielder Justin Christian was 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI. The 29-year-old outfielder also scored a run and stole three bases in the game.

Left fielder Joey Gathright collected two stolen bases for the Tides, and third baseman Brandon Pinckney was 3-for-4 with a double and a run scored.

Tides first baseman Brandon Snyder was 1-for-5 with an RBI.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 5, New Britain Rock Cats 4 (Box score)

Recap: The Baysox scored five runs in the first inning, and they held on for a 5-4 victory over New Britain.

Bowie first baseman Eric Crozier hit his second home run in as many nights since being signed by the Orioles. The 30-year-old infielder connected for a three-run shot down the right-field line with two outs in the bottom of the first.

Designated hitter Adam Donachie was 2-for-3 with two doubles and an RBI for the Baysox, and shortstop Robert Valido added an RBI with a sacrifice fly.

Baysox starting pitcher Radhames Liz (1-0) earned the win despite allowing four runs and four hits in five innings. The 25-year-old right-hander walked five batters, and he didn't collect any strikeouts.

Relief pitcher Josh Perrault gave up two hits, but he completed one scoreless inning to pick up his 12th save of the season for Bowie.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 12, Myrtle Beach Pelicans 7 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Brandon Waring smacked three hits, including a double and his 13th home run of the season, in the Keys' 12-7 win over Myrtle Beach. The 23-year-old infielder scored three runs and finished with three RBIs.

Keys starting pitcher Nathan Nery (1-3) picked up his first victory in the Carolina League after giving up four runs and nine hits in seven innings. The 23-year-old left-hander struck out 10 batters and didn't walk anyone.

Frederick first baseman Robbie Widlansky was 4-for-5 with a double, four RBIs and a run scored, while left fielder Tyler Henson added three hits and three RBIs.

Second baseman Bobby Stevens was 3-for-5 with an RBI and four runs scored for Frederick, and catcher Billy Killian collected two hits and a run scored.

Relief pitcher Luis Lebron allowed two runs and three hits in 1 1/3 innings for the Keys, but he earned his 10th save of the season.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Game 1 score: Hagerstown Suns 4, Delmarva Shorebirds 2, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 1 recap: Center fielder Xavier Avery was 2-for-3 with an RBI, but the Shorebirds dropped the first game of the doubleheader, 4-2, to Hagerstown.

Delmarva first baseman Elvin Polanco contributed a sacrifice fly, and designated hitter Ronnie Welty was 1-for-4 with a run scored.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Ryan O'Shea (5-3) allowed four runs (three earned) and three hits in 2 2/3 innings. Relief pitcher Raul Rivero tossed 3 1/3 scoreless innings for Delmarva, striking out five batters and only giving up one hit.

Game 2 score: Delmarva Shorebirds 6, Hagerstown Suns 5, 9 innings (Box score)

Game 2 recap: Polanco's sacrifice fly in the bottom of the ninth lifted the Shorebirds to a 6-5 win over Hagerstown in a game that was originally scheduled for seven innings.

Delmarva shortstop Greg Miclat was 3-for-4 with two doubles, a stolen base, an RBI and a run scored, while outfielder Ronnie Welty added two hits and a run scored.

Starting pitcher Patrick Kantakevich gave up four runs and four hits in four innings for the Shorebirds, and he didn't factor in the decision. Delmarva relief pitcher Travis Keating (2-1) struck out two of the three batters he faced to pick up the victory.

Shorebirds catcher Brendan Monaghan hit a three-run home run, and outfielder Brian Conley was 2-for-4 with two runs scored.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

The IronBirds' matchup against Hudson Valley was postponed until Saturday, July 25 due to inclement weather. The two teams will play a doubleheader on that day to make up for the rainout.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides host the Lehigh Valley IronPigs at Harbor Park, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox take on the New Britain Rock Cats at Prince George's Stadium.

The Single-A Frederick Keys play the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on the road, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds face the Hagerstown Suns in another doubleheader at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

There were a few transactions in the Orioles' minor league system, and at least one was a bit surprising.

Right-handed pitcher Radhames Liz, who appeared in the major leagues with the Orioles in each of the past three seasons, was demoted to Bowie from the Tides. The 26-year-old pitcher was once considered one of the Orioles' top prospects, but he hasn't lived up to expectations and has been passed by others. Liz will start for the Baysox tonight.

In order to make room at Bowie for Liz, the Orioles released relief pitcher Ryan Keefer.

Also, Tides relief pitcher Andy Mitchell rejoins the team from the temporary inactive list, and catcher Zach Booker was transferred from Norfolk to the IronBirds.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Lehigh Valley IronPigs (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Pauley (5-4, 3.75 ERA)
Lehigh Valley: Carlos Carrasco (2-7, 5.57 ERA)

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

New Britain Rock Cats (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Radhames Liz (0-2, 6.00 ERA with Norfolk)
New Britain: Ryan Mullins (3-7, 4.83 ERA)

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Myrtle Beach Pelicans (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Nathan Nery (0-3, 4.33 ERA)
Myrtle Beach: Jacob Thompson (0-0, 1.42 ERA)

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Doubleheader vs. Hagerstown Suns (5:05 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: TBA
Hagerstown: TBA

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: TBA
Hagerstown: TBA

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Opponent

at Hudson Valley Renegades (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Aberdeen: Nicholas Haughian (0-2, 9.60 ERA with Aberdeen in 2008)
Hudson Valley: Kyle Lobstein (professional debut)

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost to the Lehigh Valley IronPigs at Harbor Park, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox were edged by the New Britain Rock Cats at Prince George's Stadium.

The Single-A Frederick Keys pounded the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on the road, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds split a doubleheader with the Hagerstown Suns at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds fell in their first game to the Hudson Valley Renegades.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Lehigh Valley IronPigs 8, Norfolk Tides 6 (Box score)

Recap: In his Triple-A debut, first baseman Brandon Snyder was 1-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored, but the Tides dropped an 8-6 decision against Lehigh Valley.

Norfolk starting pitcher David Hernandez (3-2) suffered the loss after giving up five runs and seven hits in six innings. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out eight batters and issued two walks.

Center fielder Joey Gathright continued his recent hot streak for the Tides. The 28-year-old outfielder was 2-for-4 with three runs scored, and he is batting .410 with six doubles and nine runs scored in his past 10 games.

Tides designated hitter Jolbert Cabrera and right fielder Jeff Fiorentino each collected two RBIs, and second baseman Melvin Dorta added two hits and an RBI.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: New Britain Rock Cats 5, Bowie Baysox 4 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Eric Crozier, who joined the Baysox on Friday, hit a solo home run in the ninth inning during Bowie's 5-4 loss to New Britain.

The Baysox trailed, 5-0, in the eighth inning before climbing back into the game.

Bowie third baseman Mike Costanzo was 1-for-4 with a double and two RBIs, and shortstop Robert Valido added an RBI and a run scored.

Starting pitcher Bobby Livingston (5-2) gave up four runs (three earned) and nine hits in six innings for the Baysox. The 26-year-old left-hander collected five strikeouts and didn't walk anyone.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 11, Myrtle Beach Pelicans 2 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Brandon Waring was 3-for-6 with a home run, two RBIs and two runs scored in the Keys' 11-2 victory over Myrtle Beach.

It was the 23-year-old infielder's 12th home run of the season, which ties him for fourth place in the Carolina League.

Center fielder Matt Angle was 4-for-5 with two stolen bases and three runs scored for the Keys, raising his batting average to .300 in 58 games this season, while shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. added a stolen base and two RBIs.

Frederick starting pitcher Zach Britton (4-2) allowed one run and seven hits in five innings. The 21-year-old left-hander struck out seven batters and issued two walks.

Keys right fielder Billy Rowell collected two hits and two runs scored, and left fielder Robbie Widlansky was 2-for-5 with an RBI and a run scored.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Game 1 score: Hagerstown Suns 4, Delmarva Shorebirds 2, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 1 recap: Infielder Tyler Kolodny hit his fifth home run of the season, but the Shorebirds blew a late lead in a 4-2 loss to Hagerstown in the first game of the doubleheader.

Delmarva relief pitcher Brandon Cooney (2-3) gave up three runs (one earned) and three hits in one inning, while Travis Keating tossed a scoreless inning.

Shorebirds second baseman LJ Hoes was 2-for-2 with a double and an RBI.

Starting pitcher Cole McCurry allowed one run and five hits in five innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 23-year-old left-hander collected six strikeouts and didn't issue any walks.

Game 2 score: Delmarva Shorebirds 8, Hagerstown Suns 4 (Box score)

Game 2 recap: In the second game, Hoes was 2-for-3 with two RBIs and a run scored to lift the Shorebirds to an 8-4 win over Hagerstown.

Delmarva catcher Brendan Monaghan and first baseman Elvin Polanco each added two RBIs.

Relief pitcher Joe Esposito earned the victory for the Shorebirds after only giving up two hits in 2 2/3 scoreless innings. All eight outs that the 24-year-old right-hander recorded were on strikeouts.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Pat Egan collected six strikeouts and didn't walk anyone in 4 1/3 innings. The 24-year-old right-hander allowed four runs (two earned) and nine hits.

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Score: Hudson Valley Renegades 4, Aberdeen IronBirds 2 (Box score)

Recap: Center fielder Steve Bumbry hit his first professional home run, but the IronBirds dropped their season opener to Hudson Valley, 4-2.

Aberdeen third baseman Tyler Kelly was 3-for-4, and shortstop Blake Davis added a hit and a run scored.

Starting pitcher Colin Allen (0-1) allowed four runs (three earned) and five hits in five innings for the IronBirds. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out five batters and issued one walk.

IronBirds relief pitcher Stephen Procner only gave up one hit in three scoreless innings.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Towson University players Gary Helmick and Jason Stifler recently signed with the Orioles, and both joined affiliates in the team's minor league system.

"We're very pleased that Gary and Jason are getting a chance to play professionally," Towson University coach Mike Gottlieb said in a statement. "This is a great opportunity for them and we know they will represent our university and our baseball program very well."

Helmick, an infielder who went to Northeast High in Anne Arundel County, was a first-team All-Colonial Athletic Conference selection as a senior in the spring. He is set to join the rookie-level Bluefield Orioles in the Appalachian League when their season begins next week.

The 5-foot-11, 185-pound infielder led the CAA with a .430 batting average. Helmick, who was selected as a third-team All-American by Louisville Slugger, set school records for base hits (98), triples (nine) and runs scored (72) in 2009.

Helmick also collected 12 doubles, and he led the team with 17 home runs and 51 RBIs this season. He hit for the cycle in a victory over Yale in March, becoming the fourth player in school history to accomplish the feat.

Stifler graduated from North Harford High, and he begins his professional career with the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds in the New York-Penn League.

The 6-foot-1, 215-pound catcher, who was the starter for the past two seasons, was named to the All-CAA third team as a junior in 2008. Stifler batted .266 with 12 home runs and 44 RBIs this season for the Tigers.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Double-A Bowie Baysox plan to commemorate the Negro League with the eighth annual tribute night tomorrow at Prince George's Stadium.

Former Negro League players will be in attendance for the game against the New Britain Rock Cats, which is scheduled to begin at 7:05 p.m.

"These players never received the credit they deserved in their playing days," Baysox assistant general manager Phil Wrye said in a statement. "It's great that we get the opportunity to honor them at Prince George's Stadium."

Also, the first 1,250 fans who are at least 3 years old will receive a Homestead Grays replica hat, and there will be an on-field ceremony to honor former Negro League players before the game.

The Baysox will be wearing nine different replica Negro League jerseys, and a fireworks display will take place following the conclusion of the matchup between Bowie and New Britain.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides return to Harbor Park to face the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox welcome the New Britain Rock Cats to Prince George's Stadium.

The Single-A Frederick Keys continue their road trip against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds host the Hagerstown Suns in a doubleheader at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

The short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds open the 2009 season on the road against the Hudson Valley Renegades.

In addition to first baseman Brandon Snyder's promotion to Norfolk, there were a few transactions within the Orioles' minor league system today.

To fill Snyder's spot, the Orioles signed first baseman Eric Crozier and assigned him to the Baysox. The 30-year-old infielder appeared in 14 games with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2005. Crozier batted .152 with two home runs and four RBIs for the Blue Jays that year, but he has bounced around the minor leagues and independent teams since then.

Starting pitchers Cole McCurry and Oliver Drake were added back to Delmarva's roster from Aberdeen. In a related move, left-handed pitcher Rick Zagone was transferred to the roster of the rookie-level Bluefield Orioles.

The Keys activated Jason White from the disabled list. The 25-year-old infielder hasn't played since April 24 due to a finger injury.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

Lehigh Valley IronPigs (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Hernandez (3-1, 3.04 ERA)
Lehigh Valley: Gustavo Chacin (1-1, 2.40 ERA)

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

New Britain Rock Cats (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Bobby Livingston (5-1, 4.09 ERA)
New Britain: Jeff Manship (5-4, 4.70 ERA)

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

at Myrtle Beach Pelicans (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Zach Britton (3-2, 1.95 ERA)
Myrtle Beach: Cole Rohrbaugh (3-3, 5.12 ERA)

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

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

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (3-5, 3.65 ERA)
Hagerstown: Matt Chico (0-0, 3.00 ERA)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Pat Egan (0-0, 2.57 ERA)
Hagerstown: TBA

Aberdeen IronBirds (A)

Opponent

at Hudson Valley Renegades (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Aberdeen: Colin Allen (0-3, 7.04 ERA with Delmarva this season)
Hudson Valley: Albert Suarez (0-2, 3.92 ERA with rookie-level Princeton Devil Rays in 2008)

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

The Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds open the 2009 campaign tonight on the road against the Hudson Valley Renegades in the short-season New York-Penn League.

Last night, the IronBirds released their Opening Day roster of 30 players, and there are a lot of familiar faces on the team this season.

First baseman T.J. Baxter, who was second on the IronBirds with a .279 batting average last season, returns for his second year with the club. Infielders Garabez Rosa and Tom Edwards are among the players heading back to Aberdeen in 2009.

Also, three players from this year's MLB draft will begin their professional career in Aberdeen. Steve Bumbry, the Orioles' 12th-round selection and son of former Orioles outfielder Al Bumbry, headlines the roster. Infielder Tyler Kelly, the team's 13th-round pick, and James Brandhorst, the 20th-round draft choice, will also join Aberdeen.

Two players will start with the IronBirds as part of injury rehabilitation assignments.

Double-A Bowie Baysox right-handed pitcher Brandon Erbe, who posted a 0.90 ERA before going on the disabled list with a fatigued shoulder, will pitch for the IronBirds. Triple-A Norfolk Tides shortstop Blake Davis, who hasn't played yet this season after suffering a foot injury in spring training, is expected to debut with Aberdeen.

Below is Aberdeen's complete roster for 2009 (31 are listed because one is on the disabled list):

Pitchers

RHP Colin Allen
RHP Jose Barajas
RHP James Brandhorst
RHP Dan Eastham
RHP Brandon Erbe
LHP Nick Haughian
RHP Mick Mattaliano
RHP Kenny Moreland
RHP Scott Mueller
RHP Thomas Phelps
RHP Chase Phillips
LHP Stephen Procner
LHP Tyler Sexton
LHP Brian Sisk
LHP Jake Smith

Catchers

Jason Stifler
Brian Ward

Infielders

T.J. Baxter
Buck Britton
Levi Carolus
Blake Davis
Tom Edwards
Mike Gioioso
Tyler Kelly
Garabez Rosa

Outfielders

Arthur Bonevacia
Steve Bumbry
Richard D'Oleo
Lee Ellis (DL)
Jason Rook
Lance West

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides fell to the Louisville Bats, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds couldn't score for the second straight night against the Lake County Captains.

The Double-A Bowie Baysox defeated the Reading Phillies, and in case you missed it, I provided live updates from the press box at Prince George's Stadium.

The big news, of course, coming out of Thursday wasn't about the games played. It was the promotion of first baseman Brandon Snyder from Bowie to Norfolk that stole the headlines.

Check out my earlier post about the transaction, including quotes from Snyder and Orioles director of player development David Stockstill, who was in attendance in Bowie.

The move will become official on Friday afternoon, and a corresponding move will be announced.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Louisville Bats 3, Norfolk Tides 1 (Box score)

Recap: After beginning the season with a 5-0 record, starting pitcher Chris Tillman (5-4) suffered his fourth consecutive loss -- all since suffering a minor groin injury.

The 21-year-old right-hander allowed three runs and four hits in six innings, and the Tides fell to Louisville, 3-1, in the final game of their road trip. Tillman struck out four batters and issued two walks.

Norfolk left fielder Joey Gathright was 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored, and center fielder Justin Christian added an RBI double.

Tides relief pitcher Chris Ray retired all six batters he faced, including four with strikeouts.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 2, Reading Phillies 0 (Box score)

Recap: Before Snyder's promotion, it was shortstop Robert Valido who stole the show for the Baysox in a 2-0 win over Reading.

The 24-year-old infielder was 2-for-4, and he provided the only scoring with a two-run home run in the bottom of the eighth inning.

"My family is in town -- my Dad and my little sister -- so I was pointing at them," Valido said about his gesture as he crossed home plate following the homer.

Bowie starting pitcher Tim Bascom tossed seven scoreless innings. The 24-year-old right-hander gave up three hits and collected seven strikeouts. In 14 innings during his first two starts with the Baysox, Bascom has allowed only one run and 10 hits.

"I had a few hitters [tonight] where I kind of got them the way I usually do," Bascom said. "Basically, just keeping everybody off balance and throwing strikes."

Second baseman Miguel Abreu added two hits for the Baysox, and first baseman Mike Costanzo collected a double.

Bowie relief pitchers Ryan Ouellette and Josh Perrault each threw a perfect inning. Ouellette (3-1) earned the victory, and Perrault struck out the final two batters of the game to pick up his 11th save of the season.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Lake County Captains 6, Delmarva Shorebirds 0 (Box score)

Recap: Third baseman Tyler Kolodny was 2-for-4, but the Shorebirds failed to get much going offensively in a 6-0 loss to Lake County at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

Delmarva starting pitcher Rick Zagone (4-5) gave up four runs and seven hits in 4 1/3 innings. The 22-year-old left-hander struck out three batters and issued two walks.

It was the second consecutive game in which the Shorebirds failed to score a run. Delmarva has lost four straight games and six of their past seven.

Catcher Luis Bernardo collected a double for the Shorebirds.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game recaps
        

In the clubhouse after the game, Baysox players were congratulating Brandon Snyder.

The 22-year-old first baseman was promoted to the Triple-A Norfolk Tides following Bowie's 2-0 win over the Reading Phillies at Prince George's Stadium.

Snyder will head to Norfolk in the morning, and he plans to be ready for tomorrow night's game against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs.

No corresponding move was announced, but one is expected tomorrow afternoon.

Snyder was 0-for-3 with a walk in tonight's game, and he batted .343 with 10 home runs and 45 RBIs in 58 games for the Baysox this season.

"It definitely means a lot to me," Snyder said about the promotion. "I've been fortunate to play with these guys, and everything I've done here, you have to tip your hat to the guys you play with."

Orioles director of player development David Stockstill spoke highly of Snyder after the game.

"He has swung the bat really well, and he has made improvements on how he reads offspeed pitches," Stockstill said. "He's matured in taking the pitches and driving the ball all over the field, so we feel like it's the time that he can move up and make adjustments and compete at that level."

Stockstill didn't rule out a possible promotion for Snyder to the Orioles before the end of this season, but he stressed that the young prospect would need to excel in Norfolk.

"I think it's better to talk to [Orioles president of baseball operations] Andy [MacPhail] to do the call-ups, but if Snyder goes up there [to Norfolk] and shows what he showed here, there's a lot of possibilities," Stockstill said.

With the Baysox improving to 35-30 after tonight's victory, the move to Norfolk is bittersweet for Snyder.

"It's tough to leave, but at the same time, it's going to be good to start the new adventure," he said.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (19)
        

After a two-run home run by Baysox shortstop Robert Valido in the bottom of the eighth inning, closer Josh Perrault came into the game to preserve the 2-0 win over Reading.

Phillies right fielder Gus Milner flied out to center field on the first pitch of the top of the ninth inning. Left fielder Michael Taylor and designated hitter Jeremy Slayden struck out for Reading to end the game.

I'm heading down to the clubhouse to talk to some of the Baysox players and coaches, but check out O's on Deck later tonight for the full game recap.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Reading failed to take advantage of a leadoff walk in the top of the seventh inning.

After Phillies designated hitter Jeremy Slayden reached first base, third baseman Neil Sellers grounded out and first baseman Brian Stavisky struck out. Shortstop Ozzie Chavez grounded out to third base to end the top of the seventh for the Phillies, and Slayden was stranded at second base.

Baysox first baseman Mike Costanzo flied out to right field to begin the bottom of the seventh. Second baseman Miguel Abreu lifted a high fly ball to left field for the Baysox, and it dropped between Reading left fielder Michael Taylor and Chavez for a double.

Bowie center fielder Dave Krynzel hit a deep fly ball to right field, which allowed Abreu to tag up and move to third base. Right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion walked to put runners on the corners for the Baysox, but left fielder Joe Nowicki grounded out to end the threat.

Baysox starting pitcher Tim Bascom gave up three hits in seven scoreless innings. With seven strikeouts and only two walks, he pitched very well in his first start in front of the home crowd at Prince George's Stadium.

Relief pitcher Ryan Ouellette entered the game for Bowie in the top of the eighth, and he retired the Phillies in order.

Bowie catcher Guillermo Rodriguez led off the bottom of the eighth, and he hit a single down the left-field line. Danny Figueroa entered the game as a pinch runner for Rodriguez, and he moved up to second base on a sacrifice bunt by third baseman Jonathan Tucker.

Shortstop Robert Valido followed with a two-run home run to left field, giving the Baysox a 2-0 lead. Bowie designated hitter Brandon Snyder hit a deep fly ball to center field for the second out, and Costanzo smacked a ground-rule double. Abreu reached on an infield single, and with runners on the corners, Krynzel struck out looking to end the bottom of the eighth.

The Baysox lead, 2-0, heading into the ninth inning.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

Baysox right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion made an impressive running catch to rob Reading first baseman Brian Stavisky of an extra-base hit to lead off the top of the fifth inning.

Phillies shortstop Ozzie Chavez followed with a single up the middle, and he stole second base with Brad Harman at the plate.

Harman grounded into a fielder's choice when Baysox starting pitcher Tim Bascom caught Chavez heading to third base and got him out after a brief rundown. Bowie catcher Guillermo Rodriguez threw out Harman attempting to steal to end the top of the fifth.

Bowie center fielder Dave Krynzel struck out to start the bottom of the fifth. Concepcion grounded out to shortstop, and left fielder Joe Nowicki lined out to second base for the final out.

Reading catcher Tuffy Gosewisch struck out, but reached on a passed ball by Rodriguez to begin the top of the sixth. Center fielder Quintin Berry moved Gosewisch over to second base with a sacrifice bunt for the Phillies, and right fielder Gus Milner popped up to shortstop for the second out. Left fielder Michael Taylor flied out to end the top of the sixth.

Rodriguez started the bottom of the sixth by grounding out to third base. Third baseman Jonathan Tucker flied out to center field for the Baysox, and shortstop Robert Valido lined a single to right-center field. Bowie first baseman Brandon Snyder struck out for the final out of the bottom of the sixth.

Through six innings, it's still scoreless at Prince George's Stadium. Each team has three hits.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

After Reading catcher Tuffy Gosewisch singled to start the top of the third inning, Baysox starting pitcher Tim Bascom struck out Phillies center fielder Quintin Berry for the second time. Then, Bascom forced Reading right fielder Gus Milner to hit into a double play to end the inning.

Baysox left fielder Joe Nowicki reached on an infield single to start the bottom of the third. Bowie catcher Guillermo Rodriguez grounded into a double play, and third baseman Jonathan Tucker struck out.

Reading left fielder Michael Taylor popped out to third base to begin the top of the fourth. Phillies designated hitter Jeremy Slayden struck out swinging, and third baseman Neil Sellers grounded out to end the top of the fourth.

Through four innings, Bascom has thrown 54 pitches (35 strikes).

In the bottom of the fifth, Bowie shortstop Robert Valido grounded out to third base. Then, Baysox designated hitter Brandon Snyder walked, and first baseman Mike Costanzo struck out. Bowie second baseman Miguel Abreu grounded out to the pitcher for the final out of the bottom of the fourth.

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

Baysox starting pitcher Tim Bascom struck out Reading center fielder Quintin Berry to start the game, and Phillies right fielder Gus Milner singled to right field.

After Reading left fielder Michael Taylor grounded into a fielder's choice, Bascom struck out Phillies designated hitter Jeremy Slayden to end the top of the first inning.

Baysox third baseman Jonathan Tucker got hit to lead off the bottom of the first inning, and he moved to second base on a groundout by shortstop Robert Valido.

Tucker headed to third base on a fly ball to center field by designated hitter Brandon Snyder, but he was stranded when first baseman Mike Costanzo grounded out to end the bottom of the first.

In the top of the second, Reading third baseman Neil Sellers was the leadoff hitter, and he popped out to the catcher. Phillies first baseman Brian Stavisky walked and shortstop Ozzie Chavez struck out looking.

Finally, Reading second baseman Brad Harman flied out to end the top of the second. Baysox center fielder Dave Krynzel and Valido ran into each other on the play, but Krynzel made the catch.

Through two innings, Bascom has thrown 20 of his 33 pitches for strikes.

Bowie second baseman Miguel Abreu grounded out to shortstop to begin the bottom of the second. Krynzel struck out looking, and right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion singled up the middle for the Baysox. With left fielder Joe Nowicki batting, Concepcion broke early for second base and was caught stealing.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 7:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

The Double-A Bowie Baysox host the Reading Phillies tonight in the finale of a three-game series at Prince George's Stadium, and I'll be providing periodic updates from the press box.

As hard as it was raining when I woke up this morning, it's amazing that it is a beautiful night here.

Honestly, it's actually pretty humid. I wouldn't be surprised if thunderstorms entered the picture later in the evening, but it looks like the game will at least be started on time.

Some game notes, courtesy of the two teams:

• In his past two games, Baysox catcher Adam Donachie is 5-for-6 with a home run, two doubles and seven RBIs. With that said, he's not in the starting lineup tonight.

• Bowie left-hander Chad Thall leads the Eastern League with 10 holds.

• The Phillies have been swept twice in 2009, and Bowie could make that three times with a win tonight.

• Reading pitchers have surrendered 67 home runs so far this season, which is the most in the Eastern League. However, the Phillies lead the league in fielding percentage (.984), and they have committed a league-low 38 errors.

Here are the starting lineups for tonight's game:

READING PHILLIES (37-27)

Quintin Berry CF
Gus Milner RF
Michael Taylor LF
Jeremy Slayden DH
Neil Sellers 3B
Brian Stavisky 1B
Ozzie Chavez SS
Brad Harman 2B
Tuffy Gosewisch C

Tyson Brummett RHP

BOWIE BAYSOX (34-30)

Jonathan Tucker 3B
Robert Valido SS
Brandon Snyder DH
Mike Costanzo 1B
Miguel Abreu 2B
Dave Krynzel CF
Ambiorix Concepcion RF
Joe Nowicki LF
Guillermo Rodriguez C

Tim Bascom RHP

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 6:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Live game updates
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides conclude their road trip against the Louisville Bats, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox wrap up their series against the Reading Phillies at Prince George's Stadium.

The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds host the Lake County Captains at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium, and the Single-A Frederick Keys are idle.

Earlier today, the Baysox sent infielder Rodolfo Cardona to Delmarva. Additionally, infielder Jedidiah Stephen was added to Bowie's roster from the Keys, and infielder Garabez Rosa was moved from Delmarva to the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds.

Also, right-handed pitcher Kenny Moreland was transferred from Frederick to the IronBirds.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Louisville Bats (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Tillman (5-3, 2.33 ERA)
Louisville: Justin Lehr (8-2, 3.93 ERA)

Notes

* The Tides (38-26) hold a one-game lead over the Durham Bulls (38-28) in the International League South Division, despite losing their past two games. Louisville (35-30), which has won eight of its past 10 games, holds a 3 1/2-game lead over the Columbus Clippers (32-34) in the West Division.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Reading Phillies (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Tim Bascom (1-0, 1.29 ERA)
Reading: Tyson Brummett (3-6, 4.67 ERA)

Notes

* The Baysox have won three straight games to improve to 34-30 this season. They remain in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division, trailing the first-place Akron Aeros (43-21) by nine games. Reading (37-27) is in second place in the division, and the Phillies are six games behind Akron.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

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

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Richard Zagone (4-4, 4.40 ERA)
Lake County: Chris Jones (1-1, 1.80 ERA)

Notes

* After three consecutive losses, the Shorebirds dropped into a tie for third place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division with a 33-30 record. Delmarva trails the first-place Lakewood BlueClaws (39-25) by 5 1/2 games in the division, while Lake County (29-34) is in seventh place. The Captains are 9 1/2 games behind Lakewood.

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

Three of the Orioles' full-season affiliates will play home games on Father's Day, and each team will feature special activities to celebrate the occasion.

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides will hand out a player photograph to the first 5,000 fans before their matchup against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs at Harbor Park. The game is scheduled to begin at 1:15 p.m., and fans -- both children and adults -- will also be able to run the bases at the end of the day.

At Prince George's Stadium, the Double-A Bowie Baysox will hold an all-you-can-eat barbecue event for fans before the 2:05 p.m. meeting with the New Britain Rock Cats.

Fathers can enjoy two hours of unlimited food, as well as the opportunity to play catch on the field and the chance to meet Baysox players and coaches.

The gates at the ballpark will open at 12:30 p.m., and fans can play catch until 1:15 p.m. on the field. Players and coaches, with the exception of Baysox pitching coach Larry McCall and the starting pitcher and catcher, will sign autographs on the concourse at that time.

The buffet starts at 1 p.m., and it includes a grilled sausage station, pulled pork barbecue sandwiches, hot dogs, soft drinks, desserts and more.

Tickets to Bowie's Father's Day event are $27 each for all fans ages 13 and older, $19 for fans ages 6 to 12 years old and free to fans who are younger than 5 years old and have a ticket to the game. To reserve your spot in Bowie, contact Vince Riggs at 301-464-4885 or e-mail him at vriggs@baysox.com.

Finally, the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds welcome fans to Arthur W. Perdue Stadium for a Father's Day picnic.

Delmarva's game against the Hagerstown Suns is scheduled to begin at 2:05 p.m., and the gates at the ballpark will open at 12:05 p.m. The two-hour buffet starts at 1:30 p.m., and it includes hamburgers, hot dogs, pulled pork barbecue and more.

The Shorebirds will also allow fans to play catch and take photographs with family members on the field before the game. On Sunday, the Shorebirds will give a baseball hat with the team's new alternate logo to the first 1,000 fans.

If that's not enough, members of the Oaksville Eagles senior baseball team will play a game against a team of former players from Delaware and Virginia before the matchup between the Shorebirds and Suns. The event is organized by the Oaksville Community Club in an attempt to raise money and awareness for the restoration project of Oaksville Ball Park.

To help generate funds for the restoration project, the Shorebirds will be wearing Oaksville Eagles replica jerseys during their game against Hagerstown, and the jerseys will be auctioned off with proceeds going to the Oaksville Community Club.

Tickets to the Shorebirds' event are $20 per person, and they must be purchased in advance. To reserve a spot in Salisbury, call Jonathan Patrick at 410-219-3112 ext. 147.

For more information, check out the Shorebirds' Web site.

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

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost to the Louisville Bats, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox defeated the Reading Phillies.

The Single-A Frederick Keys fell to the Winston-Salem Dash, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds were blanked by the Lake County Captains.

Tides manager Gary Allenson will serve as a coach for the International League All-Stars during the Triple-A All-Star Game in Portland, Ore., on July 15. He has managed Norfolk since 2007.

Before today's game, the Shorebirds added left-handed pitcher Nathan Moreau to their active roster. In order to make room for Moreau, who started tonight's game against Lake County, Delmarva transferred right-hander Oliver Drake to the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Louisville Bats 6, Norfolk Tides 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Jake Arrieta (0-2) gave up five runs and seven hits in 4 2/3 innings, and the Tides lost, 6-2, to Louisville. The 23-year-old right-hander collected seven batters and issued two walks.

Norfolk right fielder Jeff Fiorentino and catcher Chad Moeller each collected two hits and a run scored, and first baseman Jolbert Cabrera added two hits.

Second baseman Melvin Dorta was 1-for-3 with an RBI for the Tides, and Steve Torrealba had a pinch-hit RBI single.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 4, Reading Phillies 1 (Box score)

Recap: In his Double-A debut, starting pitcher Brian Matusz (1-0) shined, and the Baysox cruised to a 4-1 win over Reading at Prince George's Stadium.

The 22-year-old left-hander struck out 10 batters and issued one walk in six innings. Matusz gave up one unearned run and three hits.

Bowie catcher Adam Donachie was 2-for-2 with a home run and three RBIs, while second baseman Miguel Abreu added two doubles and an RBI.

First baseman Brandon Snyder hit a triple for the Baysox, and third baseman Mike Costanzo collected a double and a run scored.

Baysox relief pitcher Ryohei Tanaka tossed two scoreless innings to earn his second save of the season. The 26-year-old right-hander hasn't allowed a run in six innings so far in 2009.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Winston-Salem Dash 8, Frederick Keys 7 (Box score)

Recap: Catcher Wally Crancer was 3-for-4 with a home run, two RBIs and two runs scored, but the Keys suffered an 8-7 loss to Winston-Salem.

Frederick starting pitcher Pedro Beato allowed four runs (three earned) and six hits in five innings, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out four batters and issued one walk.

Designated hitter Billy Killian was 1-for-4 with two RBIs for the Keys, and center fielder Matt Angle added his 19th stolen base of the season and an RBI.

Keys relief pitcher Jake Stevens (2-3) gave up one run and four hits in one inning.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

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

Recap: Starting pitcher Nathan Moreau (1-2) pitched well, but the Shorebirds managed only two hits in a 3-0 loss to Lake County.

The 22-year-old left-hander allowed one run and five hits in 6 2/3 innings. Moreau collected eight strikeouts and walked two batters.

Delmarva shortstop Greg Miclat and right fielder Ronnie Welty each collected a single.

Relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa allowed two runs and two hits in 1 1/3 innings for the Shorebirds, and Brandon Cooney retired all three batters he faced.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides play against the Louisville Bats this morning, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox host the Reading Phillies at Prince George's Stadium tonight.

The Single-A Frederick Keys and Winston-Salem Dash meet this afternoon, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds return home to play the Lake County Captains at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Louisville Bats (11:45 a.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Jake Arrieta (0-1, 1.50 ERA)
Louisville: Homer Bailey (6-5, 3.13 ERA)

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Reading Phillies (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Brian Matusz (4-2, 2.16 ERA with Frederick this season)
Reading: Michael Stutes (4-2, 4.43 ERA)

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

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

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Pedro Beato (4-5, 4.57 ERA)
Winston-Salem: Jacob Rasner (1-0, 3.22 ERA)

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

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

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Nathan Moreau (1-1, 5.48 ERA)
Lake County: T.J. House (1-7, 3.05 ERA)

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

A tough decision for fans who collect memorabilia featuring Orioles players will need to be made tonight.

While the Orioles will be handing out Adam Jones bobbleheads at Camden Yards against the New York Mets, the Double-A Bowie Baysox will give away Matt Wieters figurines (left) to fans at Prince George's Stadium.

The first 1,000 fans who are at least 3 years old at tonight's game against the Reading Phillies at 7:05 p.m. will receive one of the popular items in the likeness of the Orioles catcher.

There is a limit of one per person. All fans must have a ticket to the game in order to receive the figurine, which is about six inches tall on a wooden base. Wieters is throwing a baseball while wearing his equipment and No. 32 Baysox jersey.

For more information, visit Bowie's Web site.

Which game are you attending tonight?

Photo courtesy of the Bowie Baysox

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides lost to the Louisville Bats, but the Double-A Bowie Baysox topped the Reading Phillies at Prince George's Stadium.

The Single-A Frederick Keys fell to the Winston-Salem Dash, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds dropped a one-run decision against the Lakewood BlueClaws.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Louisville Bats 6, Norfolk Tides 4 (Box score)

Recap: In his first start for the Tides, left-hander Troy Patton (0-1) allowed more earned runs than in any of his 11 appearances for the Baysox.

The 23-year-old starting pitcher gave up five runs and seven hits in six innings. Patton surrendered three home runs and walked two hitters in the loss.

Norfolk left fielder Joey Gathright collected a pair of doubles, and catcher Steve Torrealba was 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI.

Right fielder Jeff Fiorentino added two hits and two runs scored for the Tides, and infielder Jolbert Cabrera had an RBI.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 3, Reading Phillies 2 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher John Mariotti (2-4) gave up two runs and seven hits in seven innings, and the Baysox held off Reading for a 3-2 win at Prince George's Stadium.

Bowie right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion hit a solo home run, and second baseman Miguel Abreu was 2-for-4 with a double and two RBIs.

First baseman Brandon Snyder was 1-for-2 with two walks and two runs scored for the Baysox, and third baseman Mike Costanzo added two hits.

Baysox relief pitchers Ryan Ouellette and Josh Perrault each retired all three batters they faced. Perrault picked up his 10th save of the season.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Winston-Salem Dash 4, Frederick Keys 1 (Box score)

Recap: Catcher Caleb Joseph was 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI, but the Keys suffered a 4-1 loss to Winston-Salem.

Frederick starting pitcher Sean Gleason (0-2) allowed four runs (three earned) and seven hits in seven innings. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out one batter and issued one walk.

Shortstop Pedro Florimon Jr. was 1-for-4 with a stolen base and a run scored for the Keys, and third baseman Tyler Henson added a single.

Keys right fielder Billy Rowell was 0-for-3, and his batting average dropped to .229 in 63 games this season. The 20-year-old outfielder is hitting .114 in his past 10 games.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Lakewood BlueClaws 6, Delmarva Shorebirds 5 (Box score)

Recap: The Shorebirds scored five runs in the seventh inning, but that's all the offense they had in a 6-5 loss to Lakewood.

Delmarva starting pitcher Oliver Drake (2-4) allowed five runs and six hits in 3 1/3 innings. The 22-year-old right-hander collected three strikeouts and walked three batters.

Right fielder Ronnie Welty hit a two-run triple for the Shorebirds, and third baseman Tyler Kolodny added an RBI double.

Shorebirds catcher Luis Bernardo also collected an RBI double, and first baseman Elvin Polanco had an RBI and a run scored.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides continue their series on the road against the Louisville Bats, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox return to Prince George's Stadium to take on the Reading Phillies.

The Single-A Frederick Keys face the Winston-Salem Dash, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds play the Lakewood BlueClaws.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Louisville Bats (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Troy Patton (6-2, 1.99 ERA with Bowie this season)
Louisville: Ramon Ramirez (1-4, 4.75 ERA)

Notes

* Patton makes his first start for the Tides tonight after going 6-2 with a 1.99 ERA in 11 games for the Baysox. The 23-year-old left-hander allowed three earned runs or less in each of his appearances at the Double-A level, and opponents only batted .211 against him.

* With last night's win, the Tides (38-24) jumped back in front of the Durham Bulls (38-26) by one game in the International League South Division. Louisville (33-30) is in first place in the West Division, and the Bats lead the Columbus Clippers (31-33) by 2 1/2 games.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

Reading Phillies (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: John Mariotti (1-4, 3.24 ERA)
Reading: Vance Worley (4-3, 3.15 ERA)

Notes

* Mariotti is 1-3 with a 1.67 ERA in his past five starts for the Baysox. The 24-year-old right-hander gave up two runs and four hits in seven innings against the Connecticut Defenders in his last start on June 11. Mariotti struck out four batters and issued two walks in Bowie's 2-1 loss.

* The Baysox (32-30) are in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division, and they are 8 1/2 games behind the first-place Akron Aeros (40-21). Reading is in second place in the division with a 37-25 record, and the Phillies trail Akron by 3 1/2 games.

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

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

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Sean Gleason (0-1, 6.35 ERA)
Winston-Salem: Anthony Carter (5-3, 4.24 ERA)

Notes

* Gleason returns to Frederick after 10 starts with the Baysox. The 23-year-old right-hander was 3-5 with a 5.96 ERA at the Double-A level, and he was 0-1 with a 6.35 ERA in two appearances with the Keys before being promoted in April. Gleason allowed three runs and eight hits in five innings against Connecticut during his last start on June 10.

* Frederick is in last place in the Carolina League Southern Division with a 29-35 record. The Keys trail the division-leading Lynchburg Hillcats (41-21) by 13 games, so they are already eliminated from the first-half championship. Winston-Salem (33-29) is in first place in the Northern Division (33-29) and the Dash holds a six-game lead over the second-place Salem Red Sox (28-36).

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Lakewood BlueClaws (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Oliver Drake (2-3, 2.40 ERA)
Lakewood: Heitor Correa (3-2, 2.64 ERA)

Notes

* Drake gave up two runs (one earned) and four hits in six innings against the Lake County Captains during his last start on June 11. The 22-year-old right-hander collected five strikeouts and walked one batter in the Shorebirds' 3-2 loss. Drake tossed five scoreless innings against Lakewood on June 6.

* After splitting a doubleheader last night, the Shorebirds (33-28) remain four games behind Lakewood (38-25) in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. Delmarva is tied for second place with the Kannapolis Intimidators (34-29).

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

On Friday, the Double-A Bowie Baysox will hold a Scout Night Sleepover at Prince George's Stadium for all Tiger, Cub and Boy Scouts during the 7:05 p.m. game against the New Britain Rock Cats.

Each scout will receive a special badge for participating in the event, and the Bowie Food Pantry will be accepting donations of non-perishable food items before the game.

A special parade, which is scheduled to begin at 6:15 p.m., will be held before the game to honor the scouts in attendance. After the conclusion of the meeting between the Baysox and Rock Cats, a fireworks display will occur and then scouts will be able to set up tents in the outfield at the ballpark.

Discounted seats and food vouchers for the annual sleepover are available for purchase, but you'll need to hurry if you want the special rates.

To reserve space for the sleepover and receive the special prices for tickets and food vouchers, you'll need to order tickets by 5:00 p.m. today. For more information, contact Chris Rogers at 301-464-4855 or crogers@baysox.com.

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

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides beat the Louisville Bats, and the Single-A Frederick Keys topped the Winston-Salem Dash.

The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds split a doubleheader with the Lakewood BlueClaws, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox didn't play.

I wanted to clarify an earlier note about Frederick right-hander Kenny Moreland, who started tonight against Winston-Salem. In today's game previews, I mentioned that the Keys needed to clear room for Moreland on their active roster.

However, as Keys director of broadcasting and public relations Adam Pohl pointed out, Moreland was already on the team's roster. Thanks to Adam for setting me straight. All of these recent pitching moves in the organization tricked me, but I'll try not to let it happen again.

Also, the Baysox passed along a list of their recent transactions earlier. In case you haven't kept up with the moves over the past few days, they're listed below:

Friday, June 12

RHP Jake Arrieta transferred to Norfolk from Bowie.
RHP Tim Bascom transferred to Bowie from Frederick.
LHP Bobby Livingston transferred to Bowie from Norfolk.

Saturday, June 13

RHP Pat Egan transferred to Delmarva from Bowie.
RHP Jim Hoey activated from the disabled list.

Sunday, June 14

LHP Troy Patton transferred to Norfolk from Bowie.
RHP Fredy Deza transferred to Bowie from Norfolk.

Monday, June 15

RHP Sean Gleason transferred to Frederick from Bowie.
LHP Brian Matusz transferred to Bowie from Frederick.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 5, Louisville Bats 1 (Box score)

Recap: Center fielder Joey Gathright was 3-for-3 with a run scored in the Tides' 5-1 victory over Louisville, and second baseman Melvin Dorta added a two-run home run.

Norfolk right fielder Jeff Fiorentino collected two hits, including a double, an RBI and a run scored, while shortstop Carlos Rojas and first baseman Jolbert Cabrera each had an RBI.

Starting pitcher David Pauley (5-4) allowed one run and five hits in five innings. The right-hander, who will turn 26 on Wednesday, struck out six batters and issued one walk.

Tides relief pitchers Chris Waters, Chris Ray and Bob McCrory combined to throw four scoreless innings.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 4, Winston-Salem Dash 0 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Kenny Moreland (1-0) only allowed three hits in five scoreless innings, and the Keys blanked Winston-Salem, 4-0. The 23-year-old right-hander struck out two batters and didn't walk anyone.

Frederick left fielder Robbie Widlansky was 2-for-3 with two doubles, an RBI and a run scored, and catcher Caleb Joseph added two hits and an RBI.

Third baseman Tyler Henson collected a double and two RBIs for the Keys, but he also committed his 20th error of the season.

Keys relief pitcher Brian Parker tossed three scoreless innings, and Luis Lebron didn't allow a run in one inning.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Game 1 score: Delmarva Shorebirds 5, Lakewood BlueClaws 1, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 1 recap: Catcher Luis Bernardo hit a two-run double, and the Shorebirds beat Lakewood, 5-1, in the first game of the doubleheader.

Delmarva third baseman Tyler Kolodny and second baseman LJ Hoes each added an RBI, and first baseman Joe Mahoney scored two runs.

Starting pitcher Ryan O'Shea gave up one unearned run and three hits in 4 1/3 innings for the Shorebirds, but he didn't factor in the decision. Delmarva relief pitcher Joe Esposito (2-0) tossed 2 2/3 scoreless innings to earn the win.

Game 2 score: Lakewood BlueClaws 6, Delmarva Shorebirds 4, 5 innings (Box score)

Game 2 recap: Shortstop Garabez Rosa was 1-for-2 with a three-run home run, but the Shorebirds suffered a rain-shortened 6-4 loss to Lakewood in the nightcap.

Delmarva left fielder Kyle Hudson was 2-for-3 with a run scored, and Kolodny added a hit, an RBI and a run scored.

Relief pitcher Shane Mathews (0-1) allowed five runs and six hits in 1 1/3 innings for the Shorebirds. The 24-year-old right-hander collected two strikeouts and walked two batters.

In his season debut, Shorebirds starting pitcher Patrick Kantakevich gave up one run and three hits in three innings.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds right fielder Ronnie Welty was honored as the South Atlantic League Player of the Week for his performance from June 8 to 14.

The 21-year-old outfielder batted .517 with three home runs, nine RBIs and nine runs scored for Delmarva during the week. Welty is the first Shorebirds player to earn the award in 2009.

Welty, who was named to the South Atlantic League All-Star team, was 15-for-29 during the time period, and he hit safely in all seven games. Welty is currently on a nine-game hitting streak heading into tonight's doubleheader against the Lakewood BlueClaws.

Welty, the Orioles' 20th-round selection in the 2008 MLB draft, leads the Shorebirds in batting average (.332), hits (65), RBIs (33), home runs (six) and runs scored (33).

Welty was named an Appalachian League All-Star in 2008 while playing for the rookie-level Bluefield Orioles. He hit .314 with three home runs and 34 RBIs in 55 games.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 5:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Starting pitcher Brian Matusz was promoted to the Double-A Bowie Baysox today, according to the Orioles, and he will make his debut on Wednesday at Prince George's Stadium against the Reading Phillies.

The 22-year-old left-hander was 4-2 with a 2.16 ERA in 11 starts for the Single-A Frederick Keys so far this season. Matusz, who was the Orioles' first-round selection in the 2008 MLB draft, didn't allow a run in his final 23 innings with the Keys.

Matusz currently leads the Carolina League with 75 strikeouts, and he ranks among the league leaders with 66 2/3 innings and a 2.16 ERA. In eight of his 11 starts, Matusz struck out at least six batters.

Before his promotion, Matusz was scheduled to pitch in the California/Carolina League All-Star Game on June 23 in Lake Elsinore, Calif.

In order to make room for Matusz with the Baysox, right-hander Sean Gleason will return to the Keys.

Gleason, who won 12 games with the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds last season, began the season with the Keys before being promoted to Bowie. He was 3-5 with a 5.96 ERA in 10 starts for the Baysox.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 3:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
        

The Carolina League named Single-A Frederick Keys center fielder Matt Angle as the Player of the Week for his performance from June 8 to 14.

The 23-year-old outfielder batted .417 (10-for-24) with five RBIs and three runs scored during the period. Angle, who serves as Frederick's leadoff hitter, struggled at the beginning of the season. He batted. 203 in April, but has since hit .348 in his past 36 games.

Angle ranks seventh in the Carolina League with a .297 batting average, and he is fourth in the league in stolen bases (18). On three different occasions this season, Angle collected at least four hits in a game.

The Orioles selected Angle in the seventh round of the 2007 MLB draft out of Ohio State.

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

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides play on the road against the Louisville Bats, and the Single-A Frederick Keys face the Winston-Salem Dash.

The Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds and Lakewood BlueClaws will meet in a doubleheader, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox are idle.

In between games of the doubleheader, the Shorebirds plan to add right-handed pitcher Patrick Kantakevich to their roster from extended spring training. The 22-year-old pitcher, who was 3-0 with a 1.29 ERA in 14 relief appearances for the rookie-level Bluefield Orioles last season, is expected to start the nightcap against Lakewood.

To make room for Kantakevich on their roster, the Shorebirds will transfer left-hander Cole McCurry to the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds.

Also, the Keys need to make a roster move in order for starting pitcher Kenny Moreland to play in tonight's game, but I haven't heard what it's going to be. I'll update that in the game recaps later tonight.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Louisville Bats (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Pauley (4-4, 3.93 ERA)
Louisville: Ben Jukich (4-2, 5.21 ERA)

Notes

* After yesterday's win, the Tides (37-24) moved back into a tie for first place in the International League South Division with the Durham Bulls (38-25). Louisville leads the West Division with a 33-29 record, and the Bats are 2 1/2 games ahead of the Columbus Clippers (31-32).

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

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

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Kenny Moreland (0-0, 4.15 ERA)
Winston-Salem: Daniel Hudson (4-2, 3.55 ERA)

Notes

* The Keys are in last place in the Carolina League Northern Division with a 28-35 record. They are 14 games behind the division-leading Lynchburg Hillcats (41-20). Winston-Salem (33-28) is currently in first place in the Southern Division with a seven-game lead over the Salem Red Sox (27-36).

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Doubleheader at Lakewood BlueClaws (6:05 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Ryan O'Shea (5-2, 3.05 ERA)
Lakewood: Jason Knapp (2-4, 3.92 ERA)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Patrick Kantakevich (3-0, 1.29 ERA with Bluefield in 2008)
Lakewood: Trevor May (1-1, 3.75 ERA with GCL Phillies in 2008)

Notes

* The second-place Shorebirds (32-27) trail Lakewood (37-24) by four games in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. Delmarva is 18-8 at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium this season, but the Shorebirds are only 14-19 on the road.

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

Law and Order Night will be held this Thursday at Prince George's Stadium during the game between the Double-A Bowie Baysox and Reading Phillies at 7:05 p.m.

Several activities are planned for fans who attend the matchup, including demonstrations by police dogs and tours of emergency equipment.

Police motorcycles and cars will be on display, and a narcotics dog will be practicing his duties for fans in front of the ballpark. A truck from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives will be available for tours in the parking lot.

Many police and goverment agencies will be in attendance at the event, and each organization will have a display inside the stadium during the game. Fans can talk about issues affecting public safety and meet McGruff the Crime Dog.

Prince George's County Police Chief Roberto Hylton will throw out a ceremonial first pitch.

For more information, check out Bowie's Web site.

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

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides snapped a four-game losing streak by beating the Indianapolis Indians, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox beat the New Britain Rock Cats.

The Single-A Frederick Keys fell to the Potomac Nationals, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds failed to score a run in their loss to the Hagerstown Suns.

The Keys added left-hander Nathan Nery to the active roster for tonight's start, and they transferred Kenny Moreland to the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Norfolk Tides 4, Indianapolis Indians 2 (Box score)

Recap: Left fielder Joey Gathright was 2-for-3 with a double, an RBI, two runs scored and two stolen bases in the Tides' 4-2 win over Indianapolis.

Norfolk first baseman Jolbert Cabrera was 1-for-4 with two RBIs, and right fielder Jeff Fiorentino added his 25th RBI in 37 games at Triple-A in 2009.

Starting pitcher David Hernandez gave up two runs and two hits in four innings for the Tides, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out seven batters and issued three walks.

Tides relief pitcher Ross Wolf (3-2) only allowed one hit in three scoreless innings to earn the victory, and Jim Miller retired all three batters he faced for this 14th save of the season.

Shortstop Carlos Rojas collected a double and a run scored for the Tides.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 5, New Britain Rock Cats 2 (Box score)

Recap: Catcher Adam Donachie was 3-for-4 with two doubles and four RBIs, and the Baysox beat New Britain, 5-2.

Bowie first baseman Brandon Snyder collected two doubles, and third baseman Miguel Abreu added two hits and two runs scored.

Baysox starting pitcher Fredy Deza (2-2) picked up the victory after allowing two runs and four hits in five innings. Relief pitcher Ryan Rodriguez tossed two scoreless innings to earn his first save of the season.

Center fielder Dave Krynzel was 1-for-3 with two runs scored for Bowie, and second baseman Rodolfo Cardona knocked in a run with a sacrifice fly.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Potomac Nationals 5, Frederick Keys 4, 10 innings (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Brandon Waring hit his 11th home run of the season, but the Keys lost, 5-4, in 10 innings against Potomac at Harry Grove Stadium.

Frederick center fielder Matt Angle was 2-for-5, and second baseman Bobby Stevens scored two runs.

Starting pitcher Nathan Nery gave up four runs and eight hits in 6 2/3 innings for the Keys, and relief pitcher Jake Stevens (2-2) allowed one run and three hits in 3 1/3 innings.

Every Keys starter had at least one hit in the loss.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Hagerstown Suns 6, Delmarva Shorebirds 0 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Cole McCurry (3-5) allowed three runs and three hits in six innings, and the Shorebirds were blanked, 6-0, by Hagerstown. The 23-year-old left-hander collected seven strikeouts and walked two batters.

Delmarva relief pitcher Travis Keating gave up three runs and three hits in one inning. Shorebirds catcher Dustin Black tossed a scoreless inning of relief, striking out two of the three batters he faced.

The Shorebirds couldn't get much going offensively. Right fielder Ronnie Welty hit a double for Delmarva, but the rest of the team managed only three singles.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides look to score rebound from back-to-back shutout losses to the Indianapolis Indians, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox play the New Britain Rock Cats.

The Single-A Frederick Keys face the Potomac Nationals at Harry Grove Stadium, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds wrap up their series on the road against the Hagerstown Suns.

Left-handed pitcher Troy Patton was officially promoted to Norfolk, according to the team. It hasn't been announced when he will make his first start for the Tides, but Tuesday night's starter is listed as TBA, so use your best judgment.

In order to make room for Patton on the Tides' roster, right-hander Fredy Deza was sent back to Bowie.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Indianapolis Indians (2 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: David Hernandez (3-1, 2.91 ERA)
Indianapolis: Tom Gorzellany (1-1, 3.98 ERA)

Notes

* Currently on a four-game losing streak, the Tides (36-24) dropped into second place in the International League South Division after last night's game. The Durham Bulls (38-24) hold a one-game lead over Norfolk. Indianapolis (30-31) is in third place in the West Division, trailing the first-place Louisville Bats (32-29) by two games.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at New Britain Rock Cats (1:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Fredy Deza (1-2, 3.67 ERA)
New Britain: Ryan Mullins (3-6, 4.88 ERA)

Notes

* The Baysox (31-30) remain in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division, trailing the first-place Akron Aeros (39-21) by 8 1/2 games. The Rock Cats (33-28) are in second place in the Northern Division, and they are 1 1/2 games behind the first-place Connecticut Defenders (35-27).

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Potomac Nationals (6 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Nathan Nery (0-3, 4.14 ERA)
Potomac: Terrence Engles (0-1, 8.31 ERA)

Notes

* With last night's win, the Keys improved to 28-34 this season. Frederick is in fourth place in the Carolina League Northern Division, trailing the first-place Lynchburg Hillcats (40-20) by 13 games. Potomac (34-26) is in second place in the division, and the Nationals are six games behind the Hillcats.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Hagerstown Suns (2:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Cole McCurry (3-4, 3.56 ERA)
Hagerstown: Matt Chico (0-0, 9.00 ERA)

Notes

* The Shorebirds (32-26) are in second place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division. They trail the first-place Lakewood BlueClaws (36-24) by three games, and Hagerstown (28-30) is tied for fifth place in the division. The Suns are seven games behind Lakewood.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides failed to score a run for the second straight night against the Indianapolis Indians, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox lost to the New Britain Rock Cats.

The Single-A Frederick Keys beat the Potomac Nationals, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds split a doubleheader with the Hagerstown Suns.

Prior to tonight's action, right-handed pitcher Pat Egan was sent back to Delmarva from the Baysox. In order to make room for Egan on the Shorebirds' roster, left-hander Nathan Moreau was assigned to the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Indianapolis Indians 5, Norfolk Tides 0 (Box score)

Recap: For the second consecutive night, the Tides suffered a shutout loss against Indianapolis. Tonight, the Indians beat Norfolk, 5-0.

Tides right-hander Chris Tillman (5-3) lost for the third straight start, but he didn't pitch poorly. The 21-year-old pitcher allowed two runs and seven hits in six innings. He struck out eight batters and issued two walks.

First baseman Jolbert Cabrera was 2-for-4 for the Tides, and right fielder Jeff Fiorentino added a double.

Norfolk relief pitcher Bob McCrory gave up three runs and two hits in one inning.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: New Britain Rock Cats 6, Bowie Baysox 5 (Box score)

Recap: Relief pitcher Josh Perrault (0-1) gave up two unearned runs and three hits in two-thirds of an inning, and the Baysox suffered a 6-5 loss to New Britain.

Bowie first baseman Brandon Snyder committed a costly throwing error in the bottom of the ninth inning to allow the Rock Cats the opportunity to score the winning runs.

Baysox left fielder Jonathan Tucker was 3-for-5 with a double and a triple, and shortstop Robert Valido collected an RBI with a sacrifice fly.

Third baseman Mike Costanzo was 2-for-5 with a double and a run scored for the Baysox, and center fielder Danny Figueroa added two hits, an RBI and a run scored.

In his first start since being sent back down to Bowie, left-hander Bobby Livingston allowed four runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings.

Frederick Keys (A)

Score: Frederick Keys 7, Potomac Nationals 3 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Zach Britton allowed two unearned runs and five hits in five innings, and the Keys scored four runs in the bottom of the eighth inning for a 7-3 victory over Potomac at Harry Grove Stadium.

The 21-year-old left-hander struck out six batters and issued one walk. Britton lowered his ERA to 1.95 in 12 games (11 starts) for Frederick, which is good enough for second in the Carolina League.

Keys designated hitter Robbie Widlansky was 3-for-4 with a double and three RBIs, while center fielder Matt Angle collected three hits and an RBI.

Second baseman Bobby Stevens added two hits, including his fourth home run of the season for Frederick, and third baseman Tyler Henson had two hits and an RBI.

Frederick relief pitcher Brett Bordes (3-4) recorded two outs in the game to pick up the win.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Game 1 score: Delmarva Shorebirds 9, Hagerstown Suns 7, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 1 recap: Left fielder Brian Conley hit a three-run home run to power the Shorebirds to a 9-7 win over Hagerstown in the first game of the doubleheader.

Delmarva center fielder Kyle Hudson was 2-for-4 with two RBIs, and first baseman Elvin Polanco added two doubles and an RBI.

Designated hitter LJ Hoes collected two hits, an RBI and two runs scored for the Shorebirds, while right fielder Ronnie Welty was 2-for-3.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Rick Zagone struggled for the third consecutive start. The 22-year-old left-hander allowed six runs and eight hits in 2 2/3 innings.

Relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa (6-0) only gave up one run and three hits in 2 1/3 innings for Delmarva, and Brandon Cooney picked up his 10th save of the season after tossing two scoreless innings.

Game 2 score: Hagerstown Suns 5, Delmarva Shorebirds 4, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 2 recap: Catcher Dustin Black was 2-for-3 with his first two home runs of the year, but the Shorebirds fell to Hagerstown, 5-4, in the nightcap.

Welty also hit a two-run home run for Delmarva, and center fielder Xavier Avery was 1-for-3 with his 16th stolen base of the season.

Egan allowed four runs and seven hits in four innings for the Shorebirds, but he didn't factor in the decision. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out three batters and issued two walks.

Delmarva relief pitcher Brent Allar (0-2) suffered the loss after giving up one run and one hit in 2 1/3 innings.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides continue their series on the road against the Indianapolis Indians, and the Double-A Bowie Baysox face the New Britain Rock Cats.

The Single-A Frederick Keys host the Potomac Nationals at Harry Grove Stadium, while the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds play a doubleheader against the Hagerstown Suns.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Indianapolis Indians (7 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Chris Tillman (5-2, 2.25 ERA)
Indianapolis: Ty Taubenheim (3-5, 4.00 ERA)

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at New Britain Rock Cats (6:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Pat Egan (1-0, 2.08 ERA)
New Britain: Carlos Gutierrez (1-0, 9.00 ERA)

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Potomac Nationals (6 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Frederick: Zach Britton (3-2, 2.11 ERA)
Potomac: Tom Milone (3-2, 3.79 ERA)

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

Doubleheader at Hagerstown Suns (6:05 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Rick Zagone (4-4, 3.65 ERA)
Hagerstown: Jack McGeary (0-5, 6.20 ERA)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Delmarva: TBA
Hagerstown: TBA

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game previews
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides were blanked by the Indianapolis Indians, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox beat the New Britain Rock Cats.

The Single-A Frederick Keys were swept in a doubleheader by the Potomac Nationals, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds lost to the Hagerstown Suns.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Score: Indianapolis Indians 2, Norfolk Tides 0 (Box score)

Recap: Tides right-hander Jake Arrieta (0-1) pitched well in his first start at the Triple-A level, but it wasn't good enough for a victory.

The 23-year-old starting pitcher allowed one run and two hits in six innings, and he struck out six batters, but Norfolk suffered a 2-0 loss to Indianapolis.

Norfolk center fielder Joey Gathright was 2-for-2 with two walks and two stolen bases, and left fielder Justin Christian collected his 16th stolen base of the season.

Tides relief pitcher Jim Miller gave up one run and two hits in one inning.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Score: Bowie Baysox 2, New Britain Rock Cats 1 (Box score)

Recap: Starting pitcher Tim Bascom (1-0) gave up one run and seven hits in seven innings during his Double-A debut, and the Baysox grabbed a 2-1 win over New Britain. The 24-year-old right-hander collected seven strikeouts and issued two walks.

Bowie shortstop Robert Valido and left fielder Joe Nowicki each picked up an RBI, while second baseman Miguel Abreu and right fielder Ambiorix Concepcion each added two hits.

Baysox relief pitcher Josh Perrault struck out two batters in the ninth inning to pick up his ninth save of the season.

Frederick Keys (A)

Game 1 score: Potomac Nationals 4, Frederick Keys 1, 7 innings (Box score)

Game 1 recap: Second baseman Bobby Stevens collected the only RBI with a sacrifice fly for the Keys in their 4-1 loss to Potomac during the first game of the doubleheader.

Frederick catcher Caleb Joseph hit a double in the game, and right fielder Billy Rowell and third baseman Tyler Henson each added a single.

Keys starting pitcher Pedro Beato (4-5) gave up four runs and seven hits in five innings. The 22-year-old right-hander struck out six batters and issued one walk.

Game 2 score: Potomac Nationals 10, Frederick Keys 3, 9 innings (Box score)

Game 2 recap: Third baseman Brandon Waring hit his 10th home run of the season, but the Keys were blown out in the nightcap, 10-3, after allowing seven runs in the top of the ninth inning.

As the second half of the doubleheader, the game was originally scheduled for seven innings.

Frederick relief pitcher Cliff Flagello (1-2) was charged with seven runs (three earned) and six hits in 1 2/3 innings, while starting pitcher Chris Salberg allowed one run and two hits in 3 2/3 innings.

First baseman Robbie Widlansky and designated hitter Wally Crancer each added two hits for Frederick. Widlansky, who also had an RBI in the game, raised his batting average to .375 in 12 games since joining the Keys.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Score: Hagerstown Suns 5, Delmarva Shorebirds 3 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Ronnie Welty was 2-for-3 with a solo home run, but the Shorebirds lost to Hagerstown, 5-3. It was Welty's fifth home run of the season.

Four other Delmarva players -- first baseman Joe Mahoney, designated hitter Elvin Polanco, left fielder Kyle Hudson and catcher Luis Bernardo -- each added two hits in the loss.

Shorebirds starting pitcher Nathan Moreau struggled with his command. The 22-year-old left-hander allowed two unearned runs in 1 2/3 innings, but he didn't give up a hit. Moreau walked four batters and collected three strikeouts.

Relief pitcher Raul Rivero (4-2) gave up three runs and four hits in 3 1/3 innings for Delmarva, and Shane Mathews retired all nine batters he faced.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Game recaps
        

The Triple-A Norfolk Tides face the Indianapolis Indians on the road, while the Double-A Bowie Baysox travel to play the New Britain Rock Cats.

The Single-A Frederick Keys host the Potomac Nationals for a doubleheader at Harry Grove Stadium, and the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds and Hagerstown Suns will meet at Municipal Stadium.

The pitching carousel is starting to spin in the Orioles' minor league system.

Jake Arrieta will pitch for the Tides tonight after being promoted from Bowie, while right-hander Tim Bascom moves up to the Baysox from Frederick to make tonight's start.

There were a few other roster moves in Norfolk today.

Right-hander David Hernandez rejoins the Tides, and left-hander Bobby Livingston was sent back to the Baysox. Also, Norfolk infielder Justin Turner was placed on the disabled list, retroactive to June 9, with a sprained right wrist.

Left-handed pitcher Troy Patton hasn't officially been added to the Tides' roster at this point, but that move will come within the next few days.

Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Opponent

at Indianapolis Indians (7:15 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Norfolk: Jake Arrieta (6-3, 2.59 ERA with Bowie)
Indianapolis: Eric Hacker (1-1, 4.66 ERA)

Notes

* Despite back-to-back losses, the Tides (36-22) remain tied for first place in the International League South Division with the Durham Bulls (37-23). Indianapolis is in third place in the West Division with a 28-31 record. The Indians trail the first-place Louisville Bats (31-28) by three games in the division.

Bowie Baysox (AA)

Opponent

at New Britain Rock Cats (6:35 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Bowie: Tim Bascom (4-5, 3.40 ERA with Frederick)
New Britain: Matt Fox (5-2, 2.81 ERA)

Notes

* The Baysox are in fourth place in the Eastern League Southern Division with a 30-29 record. Bowie trails the division-leading Akron Aeros (38-20) by 8 1/2 games. New Britain (32-27) is in second place in the Northern Division. The Rock Cats are 1 1/2 games behind the division-leading Connecticut Defenders (34-26).

Frederick Keys (A)

Opponent

Doubleheader vs. Potomac Nationals (5 p.m.)

Game 1: Probable pitchers

Frederick: Pedro Beato (4-4, 4.35 ERA)
Potomac: Will Atwood (1-5, 6.39 ERA)

Game 2: Probable pitchers

Frederick: Chris Salberg (1-3, 7.39 ERA)
Potomac: TBA

Notes

* The Keys (27-32) dropped the first two games of their series against the Lynchburg Hillcats (38-20) before last night's matchup was canceled due to rain. Frederick remains in last place in the Carolina League Northern Division, trailing the Hillcats by 11 1/2 games. Potomac (32-25) is tied for second place in the division, and the Nationals are 5 1/2 games behind Lynchburg.

Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Opponent

at Hagerstown Suns (7:05 p.m.)

Probable pitchers

Delmarva: Nathan Moreau (1-1, 5.91 ERA)
Hagerstown: Marcos Frias (4-1, 2.31 ERA)

Notes

* The Shorebirds (31-24) are in second place in the South Atlantic League Northern Division, and they are 1 1/2 games behind the first-place Lakewood BlueClaws (34-24). Hagerstown is in sixth place in the division with a 26-29 record. The Suns are 6 1/2 games behind Lakewood.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 3:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Game previews
        

I'm sure a lot of Orioles fans know very little information about the team's draft picks, so it's a good idea to check the unlimited space of the Internet for some updates.

Below, I've compiled a roundup of coverage about the Orioles' draft picks.

UPDATED: JUNE 11

• On his blog, Minor League Ball, John Sickels offers quick thoughts about the Orioles' draft class.

Baltimore: I don't have a problem with Hobgood at fifth overall. He's signable, and in my opinion the difference between him and the other elite prep arms isn't all that great. He might not be as projectable as some of them, being more physically mature, but I really like his arm and I don't think this is a huge overdraft. Mychal Givens in the second round adds another high-ceiling arm to the system, and if pitching doesn't work out you can try him as a hitter. Townsend out of Florida International in the third round is a solid college bat in the Jay Gibbons mode; not a star but a guy who should be able to contribute. Randy Henry in the fourth round and Ashur Tolliver in the fifth provide more live arms, Tolliver in particular being a good value in that round. 8th round pick OF Devin Harris (East Carolina), 9th round pick RHP Ryan Berry (Rice), and 10th round pick RHP Jacob Cowan (San Jacinto JC) all offer very good value for their draft slots. Harris has tons of tools, and both Berry and Cowan were considered possible second or third round picks if not for injury questions. This may not be a spectacular draft class, but I think it is solid.

• According to the Naples (Fla.) Daily News, Orioles second-round pick Mychal Givens was the second runner-up in the Mr. Baseball voting for Florida.

Mychal Givens of Tampa Plant, the Class 5A Player-of-the-Year, finished third with 59 points followed by Jordan Carroll of Madison County (Class 3A) with 41 points, Jacob Johnson of Lake Worth Trinity Christian (Co-Class 1A) with 37 points, John Nogowski of Tallahassee North Florida Christian (Class 2A) with 34 points, and Josh Romeo of Brooksville Hernando Christian (Co-Class 1A) with 30 points.

• The Cape (Del.) Gazette's Dave Frederick spoke to the Orioles' third-round pick, Florida International first baseman Tyler Townsend, about the team's plans for this season.

Townsend acquired agent Gavin Kahn last fall, is already in negotiations with the Orioles and has every intention of signing with the club.

The slotted bonus signing money from last season for pick number 85 was $465,000.

• Nathan Summers of The Daily Reflector (N.C.) talked to Orioles eighth-round pick Devin Harris about his reaction to the announcement that he was drafted.

When the Baltimore Orioles called Devin Harris on Wednesday afternoon, the East Carolina right fielder already had plans to get out of Greenville, but maybe not permanently.

“I was excited,” said Harris, who was selected with the 236th overall pick. “It's an honor. It's something that I'll be able to take with me for the rest of my life.”

• For the second consecutive season, the Orioles drafted left-handed pitcher Jarret Martin. After failing to sign him last season, the team picked him in the 18th round of this year's draft. Martin hopes to agree to a contract with the Orioles, according to The Bakersfield Californian's Zach Ewing.

Another [Bakersfield College] freshman pitcher, Jarret Martin from Centennial High, was picked by the Baltimore Orioles in the 18th round -- one round higher than the Orioles took him last year. This year’s selection was No. 536.

“They told me, ‘We didn’t draft you not to sign you,’” Martin said. “My dream is not to be drafted high; it’s to be a Major League Baseball player.”

• The (La.) News Star's Krysten Oliphant spoke with the Orioles' 24th-round selection, Louisiana-Monroe pitcher Justin Anderson, and he said it's going to be a tough decision on whether or not to sign.

The junior ... pitcher has a choice to sign with Baltimore or return to the Warhawks for his senior season. The decision, he said, will not be easy.

If Anderson does sign with the Orioles, he said he’ll probably play summer ball in Maryland before being sent to a farm team.

• Kevin Barrett of CanadaEast News Service reports that Canadian left-handed pitcher Jay Johnson, the Orioles' 25th-round selection, was delighted to be picked by the team.

Being selected by the Orioles was an added bonus.

Jay, officially listed as a six-foot-two, 210-pound pitcher, is going to play with the Lethbridge Bulls of the Western Major Baseball League or in Rochester of the Northwoods league, a top collegiate loop where his brother Aaron will also play this summer.

• The Cullman (Ala.) Times chronicles the rocky path that the Orioles' 26th-round pick, left-handed pitcher Blake Mechaw, has taken on the way to professional baseball.

Mechaw signed with Wallace State out of high school, but the hard-throwing left-handed pitcher eventually left the program and transferred to rival Shelton State.

The former West Point star pitched 38-1/3 innings, posting a 5.35 ERA. He finished with a 3-0 record with 35 strikeouts.

• The (Santa Rosa, Calif.) Press Democrat's Eric Branch reports that left-handed pitcher Matt Nadolski, who was selected by the Orioles in the 32nd round, expects to take some time before making a decision about whether to sign a contract.

The 6-foot-2, 190-pound Nadolski, the 956th overall selection, had a 6-2 record and a 2.38 ERA as a senior. He has also signed a full scholarship with San Diego State.