The AFL East Division team scored seven runs in the top of the first inning of the Rising Stars Showcase in the Arizona Fall League, but it wasn't enough for the victory.

After chipping away at the lead, the West Division team scored two runs in the bottom of the eighth to take an 8-7 victory in the fourth annual matchup of top prospects.

Rising Stars Showcase

Score: AFL West 8, AFL East 7 (Box score)

Recap: Orioles minor league third baseman Josh Bell hit a sacrifice fly and also walked in the loss for the AFL East Division in the game.

First baseman Brandon Snyder played the entire game for the AFL East Division, and he was 1-for-4 with a walk and a strikeout.

Orioles minor league right-hander Brandon Erbe was selected for the East squad, but he didn't play.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The Phoenix Desert Dogs were doubled up by the Scottsdale Scorpions in an 8-4 loss during the Arizona Fall League today.

Despite the defeat, the Desert Dogs are 13-9 and still in first place in the AFL East Division.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Scottsdale Scorpions 8, Phoenix Desert Dogs 4 (Box score)

Recap: Third baseman Brandon Waring hit a solo home run to lead off the bottom of the fifth inning, but he also struck out twice in the Desert Dogs' loss.

Waring, who also committed a throwing error in the game, is hitting .290 with two home runs and nine RBIs in eight games for Phoenix this season.

Desert Dogs center fielder Matt Angle was 1-for-3 with a sacrifice fly. The 24-year-old outfielder also grounded into a double play and picked up an outfield assist.

Orioles minor league first baseman Brandon Snyder was 0-for-3 with a walk and a strikeout. Snyder's four-game hitting streak was snapped in the loss.

None of the other Orioles minor leaguers played in today's game.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The Phoenix Desert Dogs survived a slugfest today, earning a 12-11 victory over the Peoria Saguaros in the Arizona Fall League.

Phoenix continues to lead the AFL East Division with a 13-8 record. The Mesa Solar Sox and Scottsdale Scorpions are 4 1/2 games behind the Desert Dogs. Both teams are 8-12.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Phoenix Desert Dogs 12, Peoria Saguaros 11 (Box score)

Recap: Designated hitter Brandon Snyder was 2-for-4 with a double, a triple and two RBIs in the Desert Dogs' victory over the Saguaros.

The 22-year-old infielder also walked twice and scored a run.

Orioles minor league third baseman Josh Bell was 1-for-5 with a walk and two strikeouts for Phoenix.

Starting pitcher Ryohei Tanaka was roughed up for five runs and eight hits in three innings for the Desert Dogs. The 26-year-old right-hander also pitched to four batters in the fourth before being removed.

Desert Dogs relief pitchers Eddie Gamboa and Josh Perrault also appeared in today's game.

Gamboa struggled in two-thirds of an inning, giving up two runs and three hits, while Perrault recorded the final out to pick up his first save in Arizona.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The Phoenix Desert Dogs scored two runs in the bottom of the ninth inning, but their rally fell short in a 3-2 loss to the Peoria Saguaros in the Arizona Fall League.

Despite the loss, Phoenix is still in first place in the AFL East Division with a 12-8 record. The Desert Dogs are 4 1/2 games ahead of the Mesa Solar Sox and Scottsdale Scorpions, who are both 7-12 this season.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Peoria Saguaros 3, Phoenix Desert Dogs 2 (Box score)

Recap: Third baseman Brandon Waring was 1-for-4 with a run scored and two strikeouts for Phoenix.

Orioles minor league center fielder Matt Angle was hitless in four at-bats with two strikeouts for the Desert Dogs, but he picked up an RBI when he was hit by a pitch with two outs in the ninth.

Phoenix first baseman Brandon Snyder was 1-for-3 with a walk.

None of the other Orioles minor leaguers played for the Desert Dogs in the loss.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 7:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

In case you missed my post earlier, Orioles minor leaguers Brandon Snyder and Brandon Erbe were selected for the Rising Stars Showcase in the Arizona Fall League, which will take place Saturday night.

The Phoenix Desert Dogs fell to the Surprise Rafters, 6-5, in 11 innings today. Despite the loss, the Desert Dogs remain in first place in the AFL East Division with a 12-7 record.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Surprise Rafters 6, Phoenix Desert Dogs 5, 11 innings (Box score)

Recap: Orioles minor league relief pitcher Josh Perrault (0-1) suffered the loss for the Desert Dogs after surrendering one run, three hits and one walk in one inning.

Relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa was more successful in his outing for Phoenix. The 24-year-old right-hander gave up two hits in two innings, but he didn't allow any runs. Gamboa threw 13 of his 18 pitches for strikes.

In four games for the Desert Dogs this season, Gamboa has allowed two runs (one earned) in 6 1/3 innings. He has struck out two batters and issued one walk in Arizona.

Designated hitter Josh Bell was 1-for-4 with a walk and an RBI for the Desert Dogs. The 22-year-old infielder struck out twice.

None of the other Orioles minor leaguers appeared in today's game for Phoenix.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
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The fourth annual Arizona Fall League Rising Stars Showcase is scheduled for Saturday night in Surprise, Ariz., and two Orioles minor leaguers will be representing the Phoenix Desert Dogs in the event.

Starting pitcher Brandon Erbe and first baseman Brandon Snyder were selected to represent the organization in the fall showcase. Double-A Bowie Baysox coach Moe Hill, who is a coach with the Desert Dogs, is also going to be in attendance.

Through Monday, in three starts for Phoenix, Erbe has a 2.00 ERA and nine strikeouts in nine innings. The 21-year-old right-hander has given up three runs (two earned) and eight hits.

Erbe was 5-4 with a 2.70 ERA in 18 starts while splitting the regular season between the Baysox and the short-season Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds.

Snyder ranks among the AFL leaders in several offensive categories through Monday's game. The 22-year-old infielder is ninth in the league with a .365 batting average, third with 16 RBIs and tied for third with 15 runs scored.

The Orioles' first-round draft pick in the 2005 MLB draft batted .289 with 12 home runs and 88 RBIs in 131 games while splitting time between the Baysox and Triple-A Norfolk Tides in 2009.

Snyder hit .343 with 10 home runs and 45 RBIs in 58 games for Bowie before struggling with the Tides. He only batted .248 with two home runs and 43 RBIs in 73 games at the Triple-A level.

The Rising Stars Showcase will be broadcast on the MLB Network at 8:15 p.m. EST on Saturday. I'll also provide a recap of the game on the blog later that night.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 3:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Last week, several people asked if any of the games in the Arizona Fall League would be televised, and I wasn't sure about an answer at the time.

However, it was announced Friday that MLB Network will broadcast two upcoming games -- the fourth annual Rising Stars Game (Saturday, Nov. 7 at 8 p.m.) and the AFL championship (Saturday, Nov. 21 at 2:30 p.m.).

In today's action, the Phoenix Desert Dogs defeated the Surprise Rafters, 10-2, in the fall showcase for minor leaguers. Phoenix remains in first place in the AFL East Division with a 12-6 record.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Phoenix Desert Dogs 10, Surprise Rafters 2 (Box score)

Recap: Orioles minor league first baseman Brandon Snyder displayed a good eye in the Desert Dogs' victory over Surprise.

The 22-year-old infielder was 1-for-1 with four walks and two runs scored. Defensively, Snyder helped to turn three double plays for Phoenix.

Third baseman Josh Bell was 1-for-4 with a walk for the Desert Dogs, and right fielder Matt Angle was hitless in four at-bats in his return to the lineup.

Before today's game, Angle hadn't played since last Monday.

None of the other Orioles minor leaguers played today for the Desert Dogs.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 5:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The Phoenix Desert Dogs recovered from two consecutive losses to top the Mesa Solar Sox, 4-3, in the Arizona Fall League.

Phoenix remains in first place in the AFL East Division with an 11-6 record.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Phoenix Desert Dogs 4, Mesa Solar Sox 3 (Box score)

Recap: Orioles minor league relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa retired all three batters he faced in the Desert Dogs' victory.

The 24-year-old right-hander threw five of his six pitches for strikes.

First baseman Brandon Waring was 0-for-2 with a walk and a sacrifice fly for Phoenix. In six games in Arizona, the 23-year-old infielder is batting .304 (7-for-23) with one home run and eight RBIs.

The Desert Dogs' Josh Bell, who served as the designated hitter in tonight's game, was 0-for-4. The 22-year-old infielder is hitting .333 in Arizona, but he is 2-for-22 in his past six games.

None of the other Orioles minor leaguers played in today's game.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The Phoenix Desert Dogs scored three runs in the bottom of the eighth inning, but their rally came up just short in a 5-4 loss to the Peoria Javelinas in the Arizona Fall League.

With the loss, the Desert Dogs dropped to 10-6 this season. They continue to lead the AFL East Division.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Peoria Javelinas 5, Phoenix Desert Dogs 4 (Box score)

Recap: Orioles minor league starting pitcher Brandon Erbe turned in a strong performance in the Desert Dogs' loss to the Javelinas.

The 21-year-old right-hander allowed one run and three hits in 4 1/3 innings. Erbe gave up a solo home run to Javelinas catcher Jonathan Lucroy, a Milwaukee Brewers prospect, with two outs in the top of the second.

Erbe struck out five batters and issued one walk, throwing 51 of his 71 pitches for strikes.

Relief pitcher Ryohei Tanaka took over for Erbe and gave up one hit in 1 2/3 scoreless innings for the Desert Dogs. The 26-year-old right-hander collected two strikeouts and walked one hitter.

First baseman Brandon Snyder was 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI for the Desert Dogs.

Orioles minor league relief pitcher Josh Perrault allowed one hit in one scoreless inning for Phoenix.

Third baseman Josh Bell, center fielder Matt Angle, infielder Brandon Waring and relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa did not appear in today's game.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The Phoenix Desert Dogs' four-game winning streak was snapped as they were blanked, 4-0, by the Peoria Saguaros in the Arizona Fall League.

Phoenix remains in first place in the AFL East Division with a 10-5 record. The Desert Dogs are four games ahead of the Scottsdale Scorpions (6-9).

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Peoria Saguaros 4, Phoenix Desert Dogs 0 (Box score)

Recap: Designated hitter Brandon Snyder struggled in the Desert Dogs' loss to the Saguaros.

The 22-year-old infielder was 0-for-4 with three strikeouts in the game. Snyder is batting .340 with three home runs and 15 RBIs in Arizona, but he is only 3-for-20 in his past five games.

Orioles minor league third baseman Josh Bell was hitless in three at-bats for Phoenix. The 22-year-old infielder flied out twice and grounded into a double play.

Bell is hitting .368 with one home run and nine RBIs in 10 games in Arizona.

Former Orioles starting pitcher Adam Loewen was 1-for-3 with a strikeout for the Desert Dogs. He played left field in the game.

The 25-year-old outfielder is hitting .171 with 17 strikeouts in 10 games for Phoenix. Four of his six hits came in one game against Scottsdale on Oct. 15.

None of the other Orioles minor leaguers appeared in today's game.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Phoenix Desert Dogs left fielder Grant Desme, an Oakland Athletics prospect, was 3-for-4 with two home runs, four RBIs and four runs scored in the 11-6 victory over the Peoria Javelinas in the Arizona Fall League.

The 23-year-old outfielder leads the league in batting average (.469), home runs (10), RBIs (22) and runs scored (19). Desme has hit two home runs in a game twice this season.

With their four-game winning streak, the Desert Dogs remain in first place in the AFL East Division with a 10-4 record. The Scottsdale Scorpions (6-8) are four games behind Phoenix.

Continue reading "Arizona Fall League recap -- Oct. 28" »

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
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Orioles minor league relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa hasn't appeared in a game for the Phoenix Desert Dogs in the Arizona Fall League since Oct. 16. It was his only appearance so far this season.

During that game, Gamboa allowed two runs (one earned) and two hits in 2 1/3 innings against the Scottsdale Scorpions. The 24-year-old right-hander struck out one batter and issued one walk.

Earlier tonight, I exchanged text messages with Gamboa.

He told me that he "just had a little tweak" in his back, but he is ready to return to the mound. Gamboa added that he hopes to pitch for the Desert Dogs when they travel to play the Peoria Javelinas on Wednesday.

At three different levels in the Orioles' minor league system this season, Gamboa was 11-0 with a 1.08 ERA in 39 appearances. He collected 75 strikeouts and walked 17 batters in 83 2/3 innings while pitching with the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds, Single-A Frederick Keys and Double-A Bowie Baysox.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 8:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Despite allowing four runs in the final two innings, the Phoenix Desert Dogs held on for a 7-6 victory over the Surprise Rafters in the Arizona Fall League.

Washington Nationals pitching prospect Stephen Strasburg rebounded from a rough outing in his previous start to toss 4 1/3 strong innings for Phoenix.

The 21-year-old right-hander allowed one run, one hit and two walks. Strasburg picked up five strikeouts and threw 42 of his 67 pitches for strikes.

It was the third consecutive win for the Desert Dogs, who continue to lead the AFL East Division with a 9-4 record. Phoenix currently has the best record in the league.

Continue reading "Arizona Fall League recap -- Oct. 27" »

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 7:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Catcher Nevin Ashley, a Tampa Bay Rays prospect, hit a walk-off grand slam in the bottom of the ninth inning to give the Phoenix Desert Dogs a 9-5 win over the Mesa Solar Sox in the Arizona Fall League.

Oakland Athletics prospect Grant Desme was 2-for-4 with a three-run home run for the Desert Dogs. The 23-year-old outfielder has eight home runs in Arizona, including six in his past five games.

After the win, Phoenix holds a two-game lead in the AFL East Division with an 8-4 record.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Phoenix Desert Dogs 9, Mesa Solar Sox 5 (Box score)

Recap: Third baseman Josh Bell was 1-for-4 with two runs scored for Phoenix. The 22-year-old infielder only has two hits in his past 12 at-bats.

Overall, Bell is batting .438 with one home run, four doubles, nine RBIs and 11 runs scored in eight games for the Desert Dogs.

Orioles minor league first baseman Brandon Snyder collected one hit in four at-bats during the Desert Dogs' victory. He also scored once.

Matt Angle played right field for Phoenix. The 24-year-old outfielder was 0-for-4 with one strikeout.

Infielder Brandon Waring and the four Orioles minor league pitchers in Arizona did not play for Phoenix.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The Phoenix Desert Dogs snapped a two-game losing streak with a 7-3 victory over the Scottsdale Scorpions in the Arizona Fall League.

Phoenix is in first place in the AFL East Division with a 7-4 record.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Phoenix Desert Dogs 7, Scottsdale Scorpions 3 (Box score)

Recap: Right fielder Matt Angle was 3-for-5 with a double and an RBI in the Desert Dogs' win.

The 24-year-old outfielder also scored twice and picked up his league-leading sixth stolen base.

Angle is batting .406 (13-for-32) with three doubles, three RBIs and 11 runs scored in seven games for Phoenix this season. He has five consecutive multi-hit games.

Orioles minor leaguer Brandon Waring, who played third base for the Desert Dogs tonight, was 1-for-3 with a double and three RBIs.

Phoenix designated hitter Josh Bell was 0-for-3 with a walk and a strikeout.

Brandon Erbe started for the Desert Dogs. The 21-year-old right-hander gave up two runs (one earned) and five hits in 2 2/3 innings. He threw 33 of his 54 pitches for strikes and didn't factor in the decision.

Orioles minor league relief pitcher Ryohei Tanaka (1-1) tossed 3 1/3 scoreless innings to pick up the victory. The 26-year-old right-hander struck out two batters, allowed two hits and issued one walk.

First baseman Brandon Snyder, and right-handed pitchers Eddie Gamboa and Josh Perrault didn't appear in today's game for Phoenix.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The Phoenix Desert Dogs encountered their first two-game losing streak of the season, thanks to a 15-12 defeat to the Surprise Rafters in the Arizona Fall League.

Both teams scored eight runs in the seventh inning.

After 10 games, the Desert Dogs are 6-4 in the fall showcase.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Surprise Rafters 15, Phoenix Desert Dogs 12 (Box score)

Recap: Orioles minor league center fielder Matt Angle was 3-for-5 with a walk and three runs scored.

Angle also collected two stolen bases for the Desert Dogs in the loss.

The 24-year-old outfielder, who played for the Single-A Frederick Keys for the majority of the 2009 season, is batting .370 (10-for-27) with five stolen bases and nine runs scored in six games.

First baseman Brandon Snyder's seven game hitting streak was snapped for the Desert Dogs. However, the 22-year-old infielder picked up two RBIs and a run scored.

Through Friday afternoon, Snyder was leading the league with 15 RBIs.

Phoenix third baseman Josh Bell was 1-for-5 with an RBI and a run scored. The 22-year-old infielder struck out three times, and his batting average dropped to .520 in six games in Arizona.

None of the other Orioles minor leaguers appeared in today's game.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

In his second start in the Arizona Fall League, Nationals minor league pitcher Stephen Strasburg didn't look like someone who is ready to go directly to the major leagues.

The No. 1 overall pick in the 2009 MLB draft allowed eight runs (seven earned) and seven hits in 2 2/3 innings as the Phoenix Desert Dogs suffered a 9-6 loss to the Peoria Javelinas.

Strasburg gave up three home runs and walked one batter. He also collected four strikeouts.

One of the Javelinas' home runs was a grand slam hit by Detroit Tigers minor league outfielder Casper Wells, who played in college at Towson. The 24-year-old outfielder is batting .476 (10-for-21) with two home runs and 11 RBIs in five games in Arizona.

The Desert Dogs remain in first place in the AFL East Division with a 6-3 record, one game ahead of the Scottsdale Scorpions.

Continue reading "Arizona Fall League recap -- Oct. 22" »

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

After losing to the Peoria Saguaros yesterday, the Phoenix Desert Dogs returned to the win column by pounding the Peoria Javelinas in Arizona Fall League action.

The Desert Dogs continue to lead the AFL East Division with a 6-2 record.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Phoenix Desert Dogs 17, Peoria Javelinas 4 (Box score)

Recap: First baseman Brandon Snyder blasted the Desert Dogs to a 17-4 rout over the Javelinas.

The 22-year-old infielder was 4-for-5 with two home runs and seven RBIs. Snyder also hit a double, picked up a stolen base and scored three runs.

Not to be outdone by his teammate, Orioles minor league third baseman Josh Bell was also 4-for-5 with a home run, a double, three RBIs and two runs scored.

Snyder is hitting .481 in six games in the Arizona Fall League, while Bell leads the league with a .600 batting average in five appearances with Phoenix.

Right fielder Matt Angle collected two hits, an RBI and two runs scored in the Desert Dogs' victory. He is batting .318 in five games.

Orioles minor league infielder Brandon Waring and the four pitchers representing the organization in Arizona -- Brandon Erbe, Eddie Gamboa, Josh Perrault and Ryohei Tanaka -- did not play.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Today's game against the Peoria Saguaros was full of ups and downs for the Phoenix Desert Dogs in the Arizona Fall League, but it ultimately ended in a loss.

The Desert Dogs' five-game winning streak was snapped when the Saguaros scored six runs in the top of the ninth inning to win, 11-8. Phoenix took an 8-5 advantage with eight runs in the bottom of the seventh, but the bullpen was unable to hold the lead.

Despite the loss, Phoenix continues to lead the AFL East Division with a 5-2 record.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Peoria Saguaros 11, Phoenix Desert Dogs 8 (Box score)

Recap: Once again, center fielder Matt Angle performed well in the leadoff spot for Phoenix.

The 24-year-old outfielder was 3-for-5 with a double, an RBI and a run scored. Angle also collected his third stolen base in four games in Arizona, and he picked up an outfield assist.

Orioles minor league infielder Brandon Waring hit a double and scored a run for the Desert Dogs. He played third base in today's game.

Relief pitcher Josh Perrault allowed one run and two hits in one inning for Phoenix. The 27-year-old right-hander struck out one batter and threw 10 of his 14 pitches for strikes.

The rest of the Orioles minor leaguers -- Josh Bell, Brandon Erbe, Eddie Gamboa, Brandon Snyder and Ryohei Tanaka -- did not appear for the Desert Dogs in the defeat.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 11:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

So far, there have been a lot of correct answers in the trivia contest to win tickets to the Babe Ruth Museum's "An Evening with Brooks" gala.

If you haven't submitted your guess, I'm welcoming answers until Wednesday night at 11:59 p.m. Then, I'll round up all of the correct submissions and randomly select a winner.

Despite what some people think, there isn't a secret catch. If you believe you've answered correctly, the chances are pretty good that you did.

I also learned that there are at least two correct answers to the question. I'm accepting either one, as well as any new correct answers that someone can find.

Now, let's get to today's Arizona Fall League recap.

Continue reading "Arizona Fall League recap -- Oct. 19" »

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The Phoenix Desert Dogs dominated the Surprise Rafters for an 11-2 victory in the Arizona Fall League on Saturday afternoon.

It was the fourth straight win for the Desert Dogs, and they continue to lead the AFL East Division with a 4-1 record this season.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Phoenix Desert Dogs 11, Surprise Rafters 2 (Box score)

Recap: Designated hitter Brandon Snyder continues to shine for the Desert Dogs in the fall showcase.

Snyder was 2-for-4 with two RBIs and two runs scored for Phoenix. The 22-year-old infielder is batting .412 (7-for-17) with one home run and five RBIs in four games in Arizona.

Brandon Waring played third base for the Desert Dogs, and he was 1-for-4 with a two-run single in the win. The 23-year-old infielder also scored a run.

Orioles minor leaguer Matt Angle batted leadoff and started in right field for the Desert Dogs. The 24-year-old outfielder was 2-for-5 with a double and two runs scored.

Angle also threw out Rafters third baseman Mike Moustakas, a Kansas City Royals prospect, at home plate to end the bottom of the first inning.

Third baseman Josh Bell and the four Orioles minor league pitchers did not appear in today's game.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 6:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Washington Nationals prospect Stephen Strasburg (1-0), the top pick in the 2009 MLB draft, tossed 3 1/3 scoreless innings to lead the Phoenix Desert Dogs to a 7-4 victory over the Scottsdale Scorpions in the Arizona Fall League.

Strasburg allowed two hits, struck out two batters and issued one walk. The 21-year-old right-hander threw 32 of his 50 pitches for strikes.

After losing the first game of the season, Phoenix is currently riding a three-game winning streak. The Desert Dogs are in first place in the AFL East Division.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Phoenix Desert Dogs 7, Scottsdale Scorpions 4 (Box score)

Recap: Strasburg's debut was the primary storyline in tonight's game, but several Orioles prospects also made an impact in the final score.

Desert Dogs third baseman Josh Bell was 3-for-4 with a double, three RBIs and a run scored, while first baseman Brandon Snyder added two hits, a walk and three runs scored.

It was a rocky outing for Phoenix relief pitcher Eddie Gamboa.

After going 11-0 with a 1.08 ERA in 39 games at three different levels in the Orioles' minor league system in 2009, Gamboa gave up two runs (one earned) and two hits -- including a home run -- in 2 1/3 innings. He also committed a fielding error.

Orioles minor league relief pitcher Josh Perrault didn't allow any runs in 1 1/3 innings. The 27-year-old right-hander surrendered one hit and one walk in the outing.

Center fielder Matt Angle was 0-for-4 with a strikeout for Phoenix. The 24-year-old outfielder is now 0-for-7 in two games this season.

First baseman Brandon Waring and right-handers Brandon Erbe and Ryohei Tanaka did not play.

The Desert Dogs turned four double plays, and Snyder was a part of all of them.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The Phoenix Desert Dogs defeated the Scottsdale Scorpions, 9-4, for their second consecutive victory in the Arizona Fall League. Phoenix is now 2-1 in the league, which puts them in a tie with Scottsdale for first place in the AFL East Division.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Phoenix Desert Dogs 9, Scottsdale Scorpions 4 (Box score)

Recap: Third baseman Josh Bell was 1-for-3 with a double, an RBI and two runs scored in the Desert Dogs' 9-4 victory over Scottsdale.

The 22-year-old infielder also walked twice in the game.

First baseman Brandon Snyder was 1-for-5 with an RBI, and center fielder Matt Angle was 0-for-3 with three walks, two stolen bases and a run scored.

Angle batted leadoff for the Desert Dogs in his first game in the league.

Former Orioles pitcher Adam Loewen was 4-for-5 with a double and a run scored while playing left field for the Desert Dogs.

Orioles minor league infielder Brandon Waring, as well as the four pitchers who are representing the organization in the fall showcase, did not appear in the game.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Before I get into the latest recap of the Orioles minor leaguers in the Arizona Fall League, I wanted to say thanks to everyone who attended The Baltimore Sun's Mobbies event last night.

For those who didn't know about the event and don't want to click the link above, it was The Sun's contest to award the "Most Outstanding Blogs" in various topic areas.

I had the pleasure to network with several sports bloggers from around the area. If I didn't catch up with you last night, I apologize. It was difficult to touch base with everyone.

Anyway, let's get to the Arizona Fall League news and notes. There was another powerful debut by a corner infield prospect in the Orioles' minor league system for the Phoenix Desert Dogs on Wednesday night.

Continue reading "Arizona Fall League recap -- Oct. 14" »

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (14)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The Arizona Fall League kicked off today, so I'm going to take a quick break from my series of positional rankings to discuss the first game of the season.

Eight players are representing the Orioles as members of the Phoenix Desert Dogs in the annual fall showcase for minor leaguers.

First baseman Brandon Snyder and third baseman Josh Bell headline the Orioles prospects. They are joined by right-handed pitchers Brandon Erbe, Josh Perrault, Eddie Gamboa and Ryohei Tanaka, as well as center fielder Matt Angle and infielder Brandon Waring.

Double-A Bowie Baysox bench coach Moe Hill is also representing the organization as a member of the coaching staff for the Desert Dogs.

I know a lot of Orioles fans are craving information about the performance of the players in the league, so I'm going to write a daily recap of the games for O's on Deck.

Phoenix Desert Dogs

Score: Mesa Solar Sox 10, Phoenix Desert Dogs 6 (Box score)

Recap: Snyder jumped out to a strong start for the Desert Dogs.

The 22-year-old infielder was 2-for-5 with a two-run home run and a single in the team's 10-6 loss to the Solar Sox, while Bell was 0-for-3 with a walk and a strikeout.

Tanaka (0-1) started today's game for Phoenix, and he suffered the loss after allowing one run and three hits in three innings. He struck out four batters and threw 34 of his 41 pitches for strikes.

Former Orioles pitcher Adam Loewen started in left field for the Desert Dogs. Loewen, who made the transition to a position player this season, was 0-for-1 with three walks and two runs scored.

The 25-year-old outfielder batted .236 with four home runs and 31 RBIs for the Single-A Dunedin Blue Jays in the Florida State League during the regular season.

Angle, Waring, Gamboa, Perrault and Erbe did not play in today's game.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 7:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Several players from the Orioles’ minor league system are participating in the various Caribbean leagues. There is one new addition to this week’s list – infielder Rodolfo Cardona, who played for the Bluefield Orioles in 2008.

I’ve attempted to compile a complete list, but I may have missed some players because it’s difficult to acquire information about the leagues. Feel free to get in touch with me if you think someone was inadvertently omitted and I’ll include them in next week’s entry.

Look for reports from the Caribbean leagues to appear on O’s on Deck every Wednesday for the remainder of the season.

Here are updates through Tuesday’s games on the players in the Orioles’ system:

Dominican Winter League

Fredy Deza, RHP – The 26-year-old relief pitcher hasn’t pitched for the Azucareros in December. Deza didn’t allow any runs in his past two performances, but his ERA remains high. He tossed a scoreless inning against Escogido on Nov. 24, and he threw 1 1/3 scoreless innings against the Estrellas on Nov. 30. Overall, Deza has given up 12 runs (11 earned) and 19 hits in 13 innings. He has a 7.62 ERA in 11 appearances.

Radhames Liz, RHP – After two rough starts to begin the winter season with the Estrellas, Liz rebounded in his last game. The 25-year-old right-hander only gave up one hit and one walk in five innings against the Aguilas on Dec. 13. He had four strikeouts in the outing. Overall, Liz was 0-1 with a 5.73 ERA in 11 innings, but his performance might not be as bad as it looked on the surface. Opponents only hit .186 against Liz – left-handed hitters had a .348 batting average, while right-handed hitters didn’t have any hits against him. The Estrellas didn’t make the postseason, so Liz is likely finished for the winter.

Wilfredo Perez, LHP – Perez was 1-1 with a 4.26 ERA in 17 appearances for the Estrellas this season. He gave up six runs and 10 hits in 12 2/3 innings. Opponents batted .227 against Perez. The 24-year-old left-hander tossed 2 2/3 scoreless innings against the Gigantes on Dec. 20. Perez had three strikeouts and gave up two hits in the outing. He was 2-4 with a 2.71 ERA in 42 games split between the Bowie Baysox and Frederick Keys in 2008.

Jose Reyes, C – The 25-year-old catcher started the winter season with the Estrellas, but he was transferred to the Azucareros at the end last month. Reyes was 0-for-2 against the Aguilas in his first game with the Azucareros on Nov. 28. He batted .222 (4-for-18) with two RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Estrellas.

Alfredo Simon, RHP – Simon is 2-0 with a 4.57 ERA in five starts for the Gigantes this season. He has 17 strikeouts and five walks in 21 2/3 innings. The 27-year-old right-hander earned the victory against Carolina of the Puerto Rican Winter League after giving up one run and four hits in six innings on Dec. 6. Simon struggled in his last start, however, against Licey on Dec. 13. He allowed four runs and four hits in 1 1/3 innings.

Venezuelan Winter League

Gerardo Casadiego, RHP – The 27-year-old right-hander has received plenty of action for La Guaira. Casadiego has a 4.05 ERA and two saves in 21 appearances. He has surrendered 10 runs (nine earned) and 21 hits in 20 innings. Casadiego has only allowed two earned runs in his past 10 games. He was 5-6 with a 3.18 ERA in 55 games for the Bowie Baysox in 2008.

Rodolfo Cardona, 2B/SS – Cardona is 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in two games for Lara. The 22-year-old shortstop was 0-for-3 against Caracas on Tuesday. In 49 games for Bluefield in 2008, Cardona hit .283 with three home runs and 28 RBIs. He had 10 doubles and 25 runs scored. He batted .283 with two home runs and 30 RBIs in 40 games for the Gulf Coast League Orioles in 2007.

Victor Castillo, C – Castillo hasn’t played for La Guaira since going 0-for-2 with a strikeout against Lara on Oct. 22 in his only appearance. The 24-year-old catcher batted .231 with four home runs and 12 RBIs in 39 games for the Delmarva Shorebirds this season. He hit .294 with one home run and 27 RBIs in 81 games for Delmarva in 2007.

Cesar Izturis, SS – Although he is hitting .292 with three RBIs and nine runs scored in 16 games for Lara, Izturis has struggled recently. The 28-year-old shortstop is 1-for-12 in his past three games. He was 1-for-4 with two walks and a run scored against La Guaira on Dec. 27. Izturis batted .263 with 24 RBIs and 24 stolen bases for the St. Louis Cardinals in 2008.

Andy Mitchell, RHP – Mitchell started the winter season with the Aguilas in the Dominican Winter League, but he joined Magallanes at the end of November. In four appearances (three starts) with the Aguilas, the 30-year-old right-hander was 0-1 with an 11.12 ERA. He walked 15 hitters and allowed 14 runs in 11 1/3 innings. Since becoming a member of Magallanes, he has a 7.71 ERA in 2 1/3 innings. Mitchell hasn’t pitched in a game since Dec. 7. He was 12-8 with a 4.29 ERA in 32 games (21 starts) for the Norfolk Tides in 2008.

Guillermo Quiroz, C – In seven games with Zulia, Quiroz is hitting .111 (2-for-18) with three RBIs and eight strikeouts. The 27-year-old catcher was 0-for-1 against Aragua on Dec. 22. It was his first game since Nov. 26 against the Caribes, when Quiroz was 0-for-3 with a walk and two strikeouts. He was 1-for-5 with a double, three RBIs and three strikeouts against La Guaira on Nov. 12. Quiroz batted .187 with two home runs and 14 RBIs in 56 games for the Orioles in 2008.

Raul Rivero, RHP – Rivero could be a pitcher to follow in the Orioles’ minor league system during the 2009 season. The 22-year-old right-hander is 2-0 with a 2.31 ERA in nine games (one start) for Lara. He gave up one run and four hits in three innings against Magallanes on Dec. 28. In his only start, Rivero earned the victory after allowing one run and five hits in five innings against Caracas on Dec. 23. He also tossed four scoreless innings against the Caribes in a 16-inning game on Dec. 14. Rivero was 1-5 with a 5.78 ERA in 13 starts for the Bluefield Orioles in 2008.

Guillermo Rodriguez, C – In 40 games for Lara, the 30-year-old catcher is hitting .296 with 13 RBIs and 25 runs scored. Rodriguez has slumped lately, however. He is batting .147 (5-for-34) with one RBI and seven strikeouts in his past 10 games. Rodriguez was 0-for-6 against La Guaira on Dec. 27. The Orioles signed Rodriguez to a minor league deal earlier this month. He batted .266 with two home runs and seven RBIs in 33 games for Triple-A Fresno in the San Francisco Giants’ minor league system during the 2008 season.

Carlos Rojas, 2B/SS – Rojas is hitting .211 (4-for-19) with three RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Caribes. The 24-year-old infielder hasn’t played since he was 0-for-3 with a walk against La Guaira on Nov. 11. He batted .247 with two home runs and 38 RBIs in 120 games for the Bowie Baysox this season.

Oscar Salazar, UTIL – Salazar hit well during the first part of the winter season, but he has cooled off considerably. For the first few weeks, the 30-year-old utility player was hitting around .400. He remains second in the league in batting average, but it has dropped to .352 after 49 games for La Guaira. Salazar is batting .244 (10-for-41) with no home runs and one RBI in his past 10 games. He was 2-for-5 with a walk against Magallanes on Dec. 26. He is tied for seventh in the league with 15 doubles.

Steve Torrealba, C/1B – The 30-year-old backup catcher is batting .188 with seven RBIs and six runs scored in 20 games for the Caribes this season. Torrealba was 0-for-3 against Lara on Dec. 14. He has also received some playing time at first base in Venezuela. Torrealba hit .283 with eight home runs, 26 RBIs and 16 runs scored in 37 games for the Baysox in 2008.

Puerto Rican Winter League

Miguel Abreu, 2B – Abreu is hitting .211 with two RBIs and two runs scored in 16 games for Ponce. The 24-year-old infielder has two stolen bases so far this season. He was 0-for-4 with a strikeout on Tuesday against Carolina. Abreu hit .275 with six home runs and 43 RBIs in 116 games for the Frederick Keys in 2008. He had 24 doubles, 21 stolen bases and 55 runs scored for the Keys.

Mike Costanzo, 1B/3B – Costanzo is only hitting .220 with seven runs scored in 12 games for Caguas. The 6-foot-3, 215-pound third baseman has struck out seven times, and he has four walks. Costanzo was 2-for-5 with a double and two runs scored against Licey on Dec. 7. The 25-year-old infielder doesn’t have any home runs or RBIs in Puerto Rico. While playing for the Norfolk Tides during the regular season, he was second in the International League with 159 strikeouts in 129 games.

Mexican Pacific League

Alberto Castillo, LHP – Castillo pitched 2/3 of an inning against Mexicali on Monday. The 33-year-old left-hander gave up one hit and had one strikeout. He suffered the loss after allowing five runs and four hits in 4 1/3 innings against Mazatlan on Dec. 21. Castillo is 0-4 with an 8.20 ERA in seven games (five starts) for Mochis. He has 19 strikeouts and 17 walks in 27 innings this winter. Castillo was 1-0 with a 3.81 ERA in 28 relief appearances for the Orioles during the regular season.

Scott Chiasson, RHP – Chiasson is 3-3 with a 3.24 ERA and six saves in 17 appearances for Navojoa this season. He has 22 strikeouts in 25 innings. The 31-year-old right-hander hasn’t pitched since tossing a scoreless inning against Obregon on Nov. 23. He posted a 3.38 ERA and one save in 10 games for the Norfolk Tides in 2008.

Jeff Nettles, SS/3B – The 30-year-old infielder batted .262 with one home run and six RBIs in 19 games for Mochis, but he hasn’t played since Nov. 2. Nettles hit successfully in eight of his last 10 games. During that span, he was 11-for-31 (.355) with five RBIs and three runs scored.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Several players from the Orioles’ minor league system are participating in the various Caribbean leagues. There are two new additions to this week’s list – shortstop Cesar Izturis, who recently signed a two-year contract with the team, and catcher Guillermo Rodriguez, who agreed to a minor league deal with an invite to spring training.

I’ve attempted to compile a complete list, but I may have missed some players because it’s difficult to acquire information about the leagues. Feel free to get in touch with me if you think someone was inadvertently omitted and I’ll include them in next week’s entry.

Look for reports from the Caribbean leagues to appear on O’s on Deck every Wednesday for the remainder of the season.

Here are updates through Tuesday’s games on the players in the Orioles’ system:

Dominican Winter League

Fredy Deza, RHP – The 26-year-old relief pitcher hasn’t pitched for the Azucareros in December. Deza didn’t allow any runs in his past two performances, but his ERA remains high. He tossed a scoreless inning against Escogido on Nov. 24, and he threw 1 1/3 scoreless innings against the Estrellas on Nov. 30. Overall, Deza has given up 12 runs (11 earned) and 19 hits in 13 innings. He has a 7.62 ERA in 11 appearances.

Radhames Liz, RHP – After two rough starts to begin the winter season with the Estrellas, Liz rebounded in his last game. The 25-year-old right-hander only gave up one hit and one walk in five innings against the Aguilas on Dec. 13. He had four strikeouts in the outing. Overall, Liz is 0-1 with a 5.73 ERA in 11 innings, but his performance might not be as bad as it looks on the surface. Opponents are only hitting .186 against Liz – left-handed hitters have a .348 batting average, while right-handed hitters don’t have any hits against him.

Wilfredo Perez, LHP – Perez is 1-1 with a 4.26 ERA in 17 appearances for the Estrellas this season. He has given up six runs and 10 hits in 12 2/3 innings. Opponents are batting .227 against Perez. The 24-year-old left-hander tossed 2 2/3 scoreless innings against the Gigantes on Dec. 20. Perez had three strikeouts and gave up two hits in the outing. He was 2-4 with a 2.71 ERA in 42 games split between the Bowie Baysox and Frederick Keys in 2008.

Jose Reyes, C – The 25-year-old catcher started the winter season with the Estrellas, but he was transferred to the Azucareros at the end last month. Reyes was 0-for-2 against the Aguilas in his first game with the Azucareros on Nov. 28. He batted .222 (4-for-18) with two RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Estrellas.

Alfredo Simon, RHP – Simon is 2-0 with a 4.57 ERA in five starts for the Gigantes this season. He has 17 strikeouts and five walks in 21 2/3 innings. The 27-year-old right-hander earned the victory against Carolina of the Puerto Rican Winter League after giving up one run and four hits in six innings on Dec. 6. Simon struggled in his last start, however, against Licey on Dec. 13. He allowed four runs and four hits in 1 1/3 innings.

Venezuelan Winter League

Gerardo Casadiego, RHP – The 27-year-old right-hander has received plenty of action for La Guaira. Casadiego has a 4.05 ERA and two saves in 21 appearances. He has surrendered 10 runs (nine earned) and 21 hits in 20 innings. Casadiego has only allowed two earned runs in his past 10 games. He was 5-6 with a 3.18 ERA in 55 games for the Bowie Baysox in 2008.

Victor Castillo, C – Castillo hasn’t played for La Guaira since going 0-for-2 with a strikeout against Lara on Oct. 22 in his only appearance. The 24-year-old catcher batted .231 with four home runs and 12 RBIs in 39 games for the Delmarva Shorebirds this season. He hit .294 with one home run and 27 RBIs in 81 games for Delmarva in 2007.

Cesar Izturis, SS – The 28-year-old shortstop is hitting .316 with five stolen bases and eight runs scored in 14 games for Lara. Izturis also has three doubles and three RBIs in Venezuela. He was 2-for-4 with a triple and a run scored against Aragua on Dec. 21. On Monday against the Caribes, Izturis was 1-for-2 with two walks and a run scored. He batted .263 with 24 RBIs and 24 stolen bases for the St. Louis Cardinals in 2008.

Andy Mitchell, RHP – Mitchell started the winter season with the Aguilas in the Dominican Winter League, but he joined Magallanes at the end of November. In four appearances (three starts) with the Aguilas, Mitchell was 0-1 with an 11.12 ERA. He walked 15 hitters and allowed 14 runs in 11 1/3 innings. Since becoming a member of Magallanes, he has a 7.71 ERA in 2 1/3 innings. The 30-year-old right-hander was 12-8 with a 4.29 ERA in 32 games (21 starts) for the Norfolk Tides in 2008.

Guillermo Quiroz, C – In six games with Zulia, Quiroz is hitting .111 (2-for-18) with three RBIs and eight strikeouts. The 27-year-old catcher was 0-for-1 against Aragua on Dec. 22. It was his first game since Nov. 26 against the Caribes, when Quiroz was 0-for-3 with a walk and two strikeouts. He was 1-for-5 with a double, three RBIs and three strikeouts against La Guaira on Nov. 12. Quiroz batted .187 with two home runs and 14 RBIs in 56 games for the Orioles in 2008.

Raul Rivero, RHP – The 22-year-old right-hander made his first start of the winter season Tuesday against Caracas. Rivero earned the victory after allowing one run and five hits in five innings. He is 2-0 with a 2.21 ERA in eight appearances for Lara. Rivero tossed four scoreless innings against the Caribes in a 16-inning game on Dec. 14. He gave up two hits and three walks in the outing. Rivero also pitched two innings against Aragua on Dec. 18 without giving up a run. He was 1-5 with a 5.78 ERA in 13 starts for the Bluefield Orioles during the regular season.

Guillermo Rodriguez, C – Rodriguez is batting .308 with 13 RBIs and 25 runs scored in 38 games for Lara. He’s been struggling recently, however. The 30-year-old catcher is hitting .182 with six strikeouts and only two RBIs in his past 10 games. The Orioles signed Rodriguez to a minor league deal earlier this month. He batted .266 with two home runs and seven RBIs in 33 games for Triple-A Fresno in the San Francisco Giants’ minor league system during the 2008 season.

Carlos Rojas, 2B/SS – Rojas is hitting .211 (4-for-19) with three RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Caribes. The 24-year-old infielder hasn’t played since he was 0-for-3 with a walk against La Guaira on Nov. 11. He batted .247 with two home runs and 38 RBIs in 120 games for the Bowie Baysox this season.

Oscar Salazar, UTIL – In 46 games for La Guaira, Salazar is hitting .359 with six home runs and 26 RBIs. The 30-year-old utility player has cooled off considerably, however, after a rapid start in Venezuela. He is only batting .220 with one RBI in his past 10 games. Salazar was 2-for-3 with two runs scored in Dec. 17 against Zulia. He is third in the league in batting average, tied for fifth in doubles (15) and seventh in runs scored (37).

Steve Torrealba, C/1B – The 30-year-old backup catcher is batting .188 with seven RBIs and six runs scored in 19 games for the Caribes this season. Torrealba was 0-for-3 against Lara on Dec. 14. He has also received some playing time at first base in Venezuela. Torrealba hit .283 with eight home runs, 26 RBIs and 16 runs scored in 37 games for the Baysox in 2008.

Puerto Rican Winter League

Miguel Abreu, 2B – Abreu is hitting .231 (3-for-13) in 13 games for Ponce. The 24-year-old infielder has two RBIs, two runs scored and two stolen bases so far this season. Abreu was 1-for-1 with an RBI against Carolina on Dec. 19. He hit .275 with six home runs and 43 RBIs in 116 games for the Frederick Keys in 2008. Abreu had 24 doubles, 21 stolen bases and 55 runs scored for the Keys.

Mike Costanzo, 1B/3B – Costanzo is only hitting .220 with seven runs scored in 12 games for Caguas. The 6-foot-3, 215-pound third baseman has struck out seven times, and he has four walks. Costanzo was 2-for-5 with a double and two runs scored against Licey on Dec. 7. The 25-year-old infielder doesn’t have any home runs or RBIs so far in Puerto Rico. While playing for the Norfolk Tides during the regular season, he was second in the International League with 159 strikeouts in 129 games.

Mexican Pacific League

Alberto Castillo, LHP – Castillo suffered his fourth consecutive loss after giving up five runs and four hits in 4 1/3 innings against Mazatlan on Dec. 21. The 33-year-old left-hander walked six hitters and had three strikeouts in the game. Castillo allowed three runs and six hits in seven innings against Culiacan on Dec. 14. He is 0-4 with an 8.20 ERA in six games (five starts) for Mochis. He has 18 strikeouts and 17 walks in 26 1/3 innings this winter. Castillo was 1-0 with a 3.81 ERA in 28 relief appearances for the Orioles during the regular season.

Scott Chiasson, RHP – Chiasson is 3-3 with a 3.24 ERA and six saves in 17 appearances for Navojoa this season. He has 22 strikeouts in 25 innings. The 31-year-old right-hander hasn’t pitched since tossing a scoreless inning against Obregon on Nov. 23. He posted a 3.38 ERA and one save in 10 games for the Norfolk Tides in 2008.

Jeff Nettles, SS/3B – The 30-year-old infielder batted .262 with one home run and six RBIs in 19 games for Mochis, but he hasn’t played since Nov. 2. Nettles hit successfully in eight of his last 10 games. During that span, he was 11-for-31 (.355) with five RBIs and three runs scored.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Before I update the progress of the players in the Orioles’ system that are participating in the Caribbean winter leagues, I wanted to share another set of statistics from the Arizona Fall League.

Second baseman Justin Turner, who was acquired from the Cincinnati Reds in the trade for Ramon Hernandez, hit .337 with one home run and 15 RBIs in 23 games for the Peoria Javelinas. The 24-year-old infielder had three stolen bases in four attempts, and he scored 18 runs in Arizona.

Several players from the Orioles’ minor league system are participating in the various Caribbean leagues. There is one new addition to this week’s list – outfielder Ambiorix Concepcion, who recently signed a minor league contract with the team.

I’ve attempted to compile a complete list, but I may have missed some players because it’s difficult to acquire information about the leagues. Feel free to get in touch with me if you think someone was inadvertently omitted and I’ll include them in next week’s entry.

Look for reports from the Caribbean leagues to appear on O’s on Deck every Wednesday for the remainder of the season.

Here are updates through Monday’s games on the players in the Orioles’ system:

Dominican Winter League

Fredy Deza, RHP – The 25-year-old relief pitcher hasn’t pitched for the Azucareros in December. Deza didn’t allow any runs in his past two performances, but his ERA remains high. He tossed a scoreless inning against Escogido on Nov. 24, and he threw 1 1/3 scoreless innings against the Estrellas on Nov. 30. Overall, Deza has given up 12 runs (11 earned) and 19 hits in 13 innings. He has a 7.62 ERA in 11 appearances.

Radhames Liz, RHP – After two rough starts to begin the winter season with the Estrellas, Liz rebounded in his last game. The 25-year-old right-hander only gave up one hit and one walk in five innings against the Aguilas on Dec. 13. He had four strikeouts in the outing. Overall, Liz is 0-1 with a 5.73 ERA in 11 innings, but his performance might not be as bad as it looks on the surface. Opponents are only hitting .186 against Liz – left-handed hitters have a .348 batting average, while right-handed hitters don’t have any hits against him.

Wilfredo Perez, LHP – Perez is 1-1 with a 4.50 ERA in 15 appearances for the Estrellas this season. He has given up five runs and seven hits in 10 innings. The 24-year-old left-hander walked one hitter and didn’t retire anyone in each of his past three games. Perez had two strikeouts in 1 2/3 innings of scoreless relief against Licey on Nov. 28. He hasn’t pitched since Dec. 5.

Jose Reyes, C – The 25-year-old catcher started the winter season with the Estrellas, but he was transferred to the Azucareros at the end last month. Reyes was 0-for-2 against the Aguilas in his first game with the Azucareros on Nov. 28. He batted .222 (4-for-18) with two RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Estrellas.

Alfredo Simon, RHP – Simon is 2-0 with a 4.57 ERA in five starts for the Gigantes this season. He has 17 strikeouts and five walks in 21 2/3 innings. The 27-year-old right-hander earned the victory against Carolina of the Puerto Rican Winter League after giving up one run and four hits in six innings on Dec. 6. Simon struggled in his last start, however, against Licey on Dec. 13. He allowed four runs and four hits in 1 1/3 innings.

Venezuelan Winter League

Gerardo Casadiego, RHP – The 27-year-old right-hander has received plenty of action for La Guaira. Casadiego has a 4.05 ERA and two saves in 21 appearances. He has surrendered 10 runs (nine earned) and 21 hits in 20 innings. Casadiego has only allowed two earned runs in his past 10 games. He was 5-6 with a 3.18 ERA in 55 games for the Bowie Baysox in 2008.

Victor Castillo, C – Castillo hasn’t played for La Guaira since going 0-for-2 with a strikeout against Lara on Oct. 22 in his only appearance. The 24-year-old catcher batted .231 with four home runs and 12 RBIs in 39 games for the Delmarva Shorebirds this season. He hit .294 with one home run and 27 RBIs in 81 games for Delmarva in 2007.

Andy Mitchell, RHP – Mitchell was 12-8 with a 4.29 ERA in 32 games (21 starts) for the Norfolk Tides in 2008. The 30-year-old right-hander started the winter season with the Aguilas in the Dominican Winter League, but he joined Magallanes at the end of November. In four appearances (three starts) with the Aguilas, Mitchell was 0-1 with an 11.12 ERA. He walked 15 hitters and allowed 14 runs in 11 1/3 innings. Since becoming a member of Magallanes, he has a 7.71 ERA in 2 1/3 innings.

Guillermo Quiroz, C – In six games with Zulia, Quiroz is hitting .118 (2-for-17) with three RBIs and eight strikeouts. The 27-year-old catcher hasn’t played since Nov. 26 against the Caribes. He was 0-for-3 with a walk and two strikeouts in that game. Quiroz was 1-for-5 with a double, three RBIs and three strikeouts against La Guaira on Nov. 12. He batted .187 with two home runs and 14 RBIs in 56 games for the Orioles in 2008.

Raul Rivero, RHP – The 22-year-old right-hander is 1-0 with a 2.70 ERA in six appearances for Lara. Rivero tossed four scoreless innings against the Caribes in a 16-inning game on Dec. 14. He gave up two hits and three walks in the outing. Rivero also pitched 3 2/3 innings against Caracas on Dec. 12 without giving up a run. He was 1-5 with a 5.78 ERA in 13 starts for the Bluefield Orioles during the regular season.

Carlos Rojas, 2B/SS – Rojas is hitting .211 (4-for-19) with three RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Caribes. The 24-year-old infielder hasn’t played since he was 0-for-3 with a walk against La Guaira on Nov. 11. He batted .247 with two home runs and 38 RBIs in 120 games for the Bowie Baysox this season.

Oscar Salazar, UTIL – In 43 games for La Guaira, Salazar is hitting .372 with six home runs and 26 RBIs. The 30-year-old utility player trails San Francisco Giants prospect Pablo Sandoval (.378) in batting average, but he continues to rank among the leaders in several offensive categories. Salazar is tied for third in the league with 30 walks, tied for fourth in doubles (15), fourth in total bases (95) and sixth in runs scored (35).

Steve Torrealba, C/1B – The 30-year-old backup catcher is batting .188 with seven RBIs and six runs scored in 19 games for the Caribes this season. Torrealba was 0-for-3 against Lara on Dec. 14. He has also received some playing time at first base in Venezuela. Torrealba hit .283 with eight home runs, 26 RBIs and 16 runs scored in 37 games for the Baysox in 2008.

Puerto Rican Winter League

Miguel Abreu, 2B – Abreu is hitting .182 (2-for-11) in 10 games for Ponce. The 24-year-old infielder has one RBI, two runs scored and two stolen bases so far this season. Abreu was 0-for-1 against Arecibo on Dec. 12. He hit .275 with six home runs and 43 RBIs in 116 games for the Frederick Keys in 2008. Abreu had 24 doubles, 21 stolen bases and 55 runs scored for the Keys.

Mike Costanzo, 1B/3B – Costanzo is only hitting .220 with seven runs scored in 12 games for Caguas. The 6-foot-3, 215-pound third baseman has struck out seven times, and he has four walks. Costanzo was 2-for-5 with a double and two runs scored against Licey on Dec. 7. The 25-year-old infielder doesn’t have any home runs or RBIs so far in Puerto Rico. While playing for the Norfolk Tides during the regular season, he was second in the International League with 159 strikeouts in 129 games.

Mexican Pacific League

Alberto Castillo, LHP – Castillo only allowed three runs and six hits in seven innings against Culiacan on Dec. 14, but he suffered the loss. The 33-year-old left-hander is 0-3 with a 7.77 ERA in five games (four starts) for Mochis. He has 15 strikeouts and 11 walks in 22 innings this winter. Castillo was 1-0 with a 3.81 ERA in 28 relief appearances for the Orioles during the regular season.

Scott Chiasson, RHP – Chiasson is 3-3 with a 3.24 ERA and six saves in 17 appearances for Navojoa this season. He has 22 strikeouts in 25 innings. The 31-year-old right-hander hasn’t pitched since tossing a scoreless inning against Obregon on Nov. 23. He posted a 3.38 ERA and one save in 10 games for the Norfolk Tides in 2008.

Jeff Nettles, SS/3B – The 30-year-old infielder batted .262 with one home run and six RBIs in 19 games for Mochis, but he hasn’t played since Nov. 2. Nettles hit successfully in eight of his last 10 games. During that span, he was 11-for-31 (.355) with five RBIs and three runs scored.

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

Several players from the Orioles’ minor league system are participating in the various Caribbean leagues. There are three new additions to this week’s list – right-handed pitchers Gerardo Casadiego, Scott Chiasson and Andy Mitchell.

I’ve attempted to compile a complete list, but I may have missed some players because it’s difficult to acquire information about the leagues. Feel free to get in touch with me if you think someone was inadvertently omitted and I’ll include them in next week’s entry.

Look for reports from the Caribbean leagues to appear on O’s on Deck every Wednesday for the remainder of the season.

Here are updates through Tuesday’s games on the players in the Orioles’ system:

Dominican Winter League

Fredy Deza, RHP – The 25-year-old relief pitcher hasn’t pitched for the Azucareros in December. Deza didn’t allow any runs in his past two performances, but his ERA remains high. He tossed a scoreless inning against Escogido on Nov. 24, and he threw 1 1/3 scoreless innings against the Estrellas on Nov. 30. Overall, Deza has given up 12 runs (11 earned) and 19 hits in 13 innings. He has a 7.62 ERA in 11 appearances.

Radhames Liz, RHP – Liz was 6-6 with a 6.72 ERA in 17 starts for the Orioles in 2008, and he has continued to struggle in the Dominican Republic. The 25-year-old right-hander is 0-1 with a 10.50 ERA in two starts for the Estrellas. He allowed four runs (three earned) and three hits in 3 1/3 innings against Escogido on Dec. 5. Liz walked two hitters and had three strikeouts in the game.

Wilfredo Perez, LHP – Perez is 1-1 with a 4.50 ERA in 15 appearances for the Estrellas this season. He has given up five runs and seven hits in 10 innings. The 24-year-old left-hander walked one hitter and didn’t retire anyone in each of his past three games. Perez had two strikeouts in 1 2/3 innings of scoreless relief against Licey on Nov. 28.

Jose Reyes, C – The 25-year-old catcher started the winter season with the Estrellas, but he was transferred to the Azucareros at the end last month. Reyes was 0-for-2 against the Aguilas in his first game with the Azucareros on Nov. 28. He batted .222 (4-for-18) with two RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Estrellas.

Alfredo Simon, RHP – In three of his four starts for the Gigantes, Simon has pitched extremely well. The 27-year-old right-hander is 2-0 with a 3.10 ERA and one complete game. He earned the victory on Dec. 6 against Carolina of the Puerto Rican Winter League after giving up one run and four hits in six innings. Simon struck out six hitters and issued two walks in the game.

Venezuelan Winter League

Gerardo Casadiego, RHP – The 27-year-old right-hander, who recently re-signed with the organization, has received plenty of action for La Guaira. Casadiego has a 4.05 ERA and two saves in 21 appearances. He has surrendered 10 runs (nine earned) and 21 hits in 20 innings. Casadiego has only allowed two earned runs in his past 10 games. He was 5-6 with a 3.18 ERA in 55 games for the Bowie Baysox in 2008.

Victor Castillo, C – Castillo hasn’t played for La Guaira since going 0-for-2 with a strikeout against Lara on Oct. 22 in his only appearance. The 24-year-old catcher batted .231 with four home runs and 12 RBIs in 39 games for the Delmarva Shorebirds this season. He hit .294 with one home run and 27 RBIs in 81 games for Delmarva in 2007.

Andy Mitchell, RHP – Mitchell recently signed a minor league contract to stay with the organization. The 30-year-old right-hander was 12-8 with a 4.29 ERA in 32 games (21 starts) for the Norfolk Tides in 2008. He started the winter season with the Aguilas in the Dominican Winter League, but he joined Magallanes at the end of November. In four appearances (three starts) with the Aguilas, Mitchell was 0-1 with an 11.12 ERA. He walked 15 hitters and allowed 14 runs in 11 1/3 innings. Since becoming a member of Magallanes, he has a 7.71 ERA in 2 1/3 innings.

Guillermo Quiroz, C – In six games with Zulia, Quiroz is hitting .118 (2-for-17) with three RBIs and eight strikeouts. The 27-year-old catcher hasn’t played since Nov. 26 against the Caribes. He was 0-for-3 with a walk and two strikeouts in that game. Quiroz was 1-for-5 with a double, three RBIs and three strikeouts against La Guaira on Nov. 12. He batted .187 with two home runs and 14 RBIs in 56 games for the Orioles in 2008.

Raul Rivero, RHP – The 22-year-old right-hander has a 5.79 ERA in three appearances for Lara. Rivero retired one hitter without giving up a run on Dec. 5 against Margarita. He tossed 2 1/3 scoreless innings against Aragua on Dec. 2. Rivero pitched for the Bluefield Orioles during the regular season. He was 1-5 with a 5.78 ERA in 13 starts for the rookie-level affiliate.

Carlos Rojas, 2B/SS – Rojas is hitting .211 (4-for-19) with three RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Caribes. The 24-year-old infielder hasn’t played since he was 0-for-3 with a walk against La Guaira on Nov. 11. He batted .247 with two home runs and 38 RBIs in 120 games for the Bowie Baysox this season.

Oscar Salazar, UTIL – Although his batting average has finally dipped below .400, Salazar continues to lead the Venezuelan Winter League. The 30-year-old utility player, who has played multiple positions during the winter, is hitting .384 with six home runs and 25 RBIs in 39 games for La Guaira. Salazar is leading the league with 30 walks. He’s third in runs scored (34) and fifth in doubles (13). In his past 10 games, Salazar is only batting .273 with four RBIs and six runs scored.

Steve Torrealba, C/1B – The 30-year-old backup catcher is hitting .214 (6-for-28) with seven RBIs and six runs scored in 17 games for the Caribes this season. Torrealba, who batted .283 with eight home runs, 26 RBIs and 16 runs scored in 37 games for the Baysox in 2008, was 2-for-3 with a double and three RBIs against Zulia on Dec. 4. He has also received some playing time at first base in Venezuela.

Puerto Rican Winter League

Miguel Abreu, 2B – Abreu is batting .200 (2-for-10) with one RBI and two runs scored in seven games for Ponce. The 24-year-old infielder was 1-for-4 with a walk and two runs scored against Caguas on Nov. 23. He hit .275 with six home runs and 43 RBIs in 116 games for the Frederick Keys in 2008. Abreu had 24 doubles, 21 stolen bases and 55 runs scored for the Keys.

Mike Costanzo, 1B/3B – The 25-year-old infielder is only hitting .220 with seven runs scored in 12 games for Caguas. Costanzo was 2-for-5 with a double and two runs scored against Licey on Dec. 7. Costanzo has struck out seven times, and he has four walks. While playing for the Norfolk Tides during the regular season, he was second in the International League with 159 strikeouts in 129 games. The 6-foot-3, 215-pound third baseman doesn’t have any home runs or RBIs so far this season.

Mexican Pacific League

Alberto Castillo, LHP – Castillo is 0-2 with a 9.60 ERA in four games (three starts) for the Mochis Caneros. The 33-year-old left-hander has been roughed up in his past two starts. Castillo allowed five runs and six hits in 3 2/3 innings against Obregon on Dec. 3, and he gave up seven runs and seven hits in five innings against Hermosillo in Tuesday’s game. Castillo was 1-0 with a 3.81 ERA in 28 relief appearances for the Orioles during the regular season.

Scott Chiasson, RHP – Chiasson, who recently signed a minor league contract to stay with the organization, is 3-3 with a 3.24 ERA and six saves in 17 appearances for Navojoa this season. The 31-year-old right-hander hasn’t pitched since tossing a scoreless inning against Obregon on Nov. 23. He posted a 3.38 ERA and one save in 10 games for the Norfolk Tides in 2008.

Jeff Nettles, SS/3B – The 30-year-old infielder batted .262 with one home run and six RBIs in 19 games for the Mochis Caneros, but he hasn’t played since Nov. 2. Nettles hit successfully in eight of his last 10 games. During that span, he was 11-for-31 (.355) with five RBIs and three runs scored.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Before diving into today’s update on the Caribbean leagues, I wanted to remark on Monday’s post about Luis Matos. The purpose of the entry was to let readers know how he’s been doing since the Orioles designated him for assignment in 2006. I also wanted to see if people thought another team in the major leagues should give him a chance to play.

The reactions from the numerous commenters definitely surprised me. As I expected, there were people who thought Matos shouldn’t be allowed anywhere near Camden Yards. I’ve got to say, however, I thought that sentiment would have been almost unanimous.

But that wasn’t the case. Many people thought it would be a good idea to start fitting Matos for another Orioles uniform. Others mentioned that he should get a shot with any organization except the Orioles. One person even chimed in about his good looks. I’m not going to comment on that one.

Let me make it clear that I wasn’t suggesting the Orioles should give the veteran outfielder another chance. It’d be nice to see him get an opportunity to make it back to the majors, but I don’t think it’s something that should happen in Baltimore.

By the way, I was sitting in the left field seats when he made that remarkable catch against Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz. I also recall several other highlight-reel plays during his tenure in Baltimore. Thanks for the memories, and good luck in the future. Just not with the Orioles.

Let’s switch gears now to the players from the organization in the Caribbean leagues. Several people from the Orioles’ minor league system are participating in the various leagues.

There are three new additions to this week’s list – right-handed pitcher Radhames Liz, who is playing for the Estrellas in the Dominican Winter League, left-handed pitcher Alberto Castillo, who is playing for the Mochis Caneros in the Mexican Pacific League and right-handed pitcher Raul Rivero, who is playing for Lara in the Venezuelan Winter League.

I’ve attempted to compile a complete list, but I may have missed some players because it’s difficult to acquire information about the leagues. Feel free to get in touch with me if you think someone was inadvertently omitted and I’ll include them in next week’s entry.

Look for reports from the Caribbean leagues to appear on O’s on Deck every Wednesday for the remainder of the season.

Here are updates through Tuesday’s games on the players in the Orioles’ system:

Dominican Winter League

Fredy Deza, RHP – The 25-year-old relief pitcher hasn’t allowed any runs in his past two performances for the Azucareros, but his ERA remains high. Deza tossed a scoreless inning against Escogido on Nov. 24, and he threw 1 1/3 scoreless innings against the Estrellas on Nov. 30. Overall, Deza has given up 12 runs (11 earned) and 19 hits in 13 innings. He has a 7.62 ERA in 11 appearances.

Radhames Liz, RHP – Liz didn’t have an impressive debut with the Estrellas. The 25-year-old right-hander gave up four runs and four hits in 2 2/3 innings against Licey on Nov. 28. He issued two walks and had one strikeout in the game. Liz was 6-6 with a 6.72 ERA in 17 starts for the Orioles in 2008.

Wilfredo Perez, LHP – After surrendering two runs without retiring a hitter against Licey on Nov. 18, Perez has thrown 3 2/3 scoreless innings in his past three appearances for the Estrellas. During that span, he has only surrendered one hit while picking up seven strikeouts. Perez is 1-1 with a 5.40 ERA in 10 games so far this season.

Jose Reyes, C – Reyes is one of the latest additions to the organization. The 25-year-old catcher started the winter season with the Estrellas, but he was recently transferred to the Azucareros. Reyes was 0-for-2 against the Aguilas in his first game with the Azucareros on Nov. 28. He batted .222 (4-for-18) with two RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Estrellas.

Alfredo Simon, RHP – The 27-year-old right-hander excelled in his first two starts for the Gigantes, but he ran into some trouble against the Aguilas on Nov. 30. In that game, Simon allowed five runs (four earned) and six hits in 3 2/3 innings. He had three strikeouts and walked one in the outing. Overall, Simon is 1-0 with a 3.77 ERA in 14 1/3 innings in the Dominican Republic.

Venezuelan Winter League

Victor Castillo, C – Castillo hasn’t played for La Guaira since going 0-for-2 with a strikeout against Lara on Oct. 22 in his only appearance. The 24-year-old catcher batted .231 with four home runs and 12 RBIs in 39 games for the Delmarva Shorebirds this season. He hit .294 with one home run and 27 RBIs in 81 games for Delmarva in 2007.

Raul Rivero, RHP – The 22-year-old right-hander has a 6.23 ERA in two appearances for Lara. Rivero gave up three runs and five hits in two innings against La Guaira on Nov. 27, but he bounced back with 2 1/3 scoreless innings against Aragua on Tuesday. Rivero pitched for the Bluefield Orioles during the regular season. He was 1-5 with a 5.78 ERA in 13 starts for the rookie-level affiliate.

Carlos Rojas, 2B/SS – Rojas is hitting .211 (4-for-19) with three RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Caribes. The 24-year-old infielder hasn’t played since he was 0-for-3 with a walk against La Guaira on Nov. 11. He batted .247 with two home runs and 38 RBIs in 120 games for the Bowie Baysox this season.

Oscar Salazar, 1B/3B/LF – Salazar continues to lead the Venezuelan Winter League in batting average, but it’s not as high as it was last week. The 30-year-old utility player is the only person in the league who is hitting over .400 – he’s hitting .404 through 32 games for La Guaira – and he has six home runs and 22 RBIs. Salazar is tied for third in the league with 29 runs scored. He also has 10 doubles, two triples and three stolen bases. In his past 10 games, Salazar is 10-for-32 (.313) with four RBIs and eight runs scored.

Steve Torrealba, C/1B – The 30-year-old backup catcher is hitting .160 (4-for-25) with four RBIs and five runs scored in 14 games for the Caribes this season. Torrealba, who hit .283 with eight home runs, 26 RBIs and 16 runs scored in 37 games for the Baysox in 2008, was 0-for-2 with a walk against Zulia on Nov. 27. He has also received some playing time at first base in Venezuela.

Puerto Rican Winter League

Miguel Abreu, 2B – Abreu is batting .200 (2-for-10) with one RBI and two runs scored in five games for Ponce. The 24-year-old infielder was 1-for-4 with a walk and two runs scored against Caguas on Nov. 23. He hit .275 with six home runs and 43 RBIs in 116 games for the Frederick Keys in 2008. Abreu had 24 doubles, 21 stolen bases and 55 runs scored for the Keys.

Mike Costanzo, 1B/3B – The 25-year-old infielder is only hitting .222 (6-for-27) with four runs scored in eight games for Caguas. Costanzo, however, might be ready to break out of his slump because he has hit successfully in his past four games. He was 2-for-5 with a triple and two runs scored against Ponce on Tuesday. Costanzo has struck out seven times, and he has four walks. While playing for the Norfolk Tides during the regular season, he was second in the International League with 159 strikeouts in 129 games.

Mexican Pacific League

Alberto Castillo, LHP – Castillo has a 5.68 ERA in two games (one start) for the Mochis Caneros. The 33-year-old left-hander allowed three runs (two earned) and six hits in five innings against Obregon on Nov. 27. He struck out three hitters and issued two walks in the game. Castillo was 1-0 with a 3.81 ERA in 28 relief appearances for the Orioles during the regular season.

Jeff Nettles, SS/3B – The 30-year-old infielder batted .262 with one home run and six RBIs in 19 games for the Mochis Caneros, but he hasn’t played since Nov. 2. Nettles hit successfully in eight of his last 10 games. During that span, he was 11-for-31 (.355) with five RBIs and three runs scored.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Several players from the Orioles’ minor league system are participating in the various Caribbean leagues. There are a couple new additions to this week’s list – catcher Jose Reyes, who is playing for the Estrellas in the Dominican Winter League, and infielder Mike Costanzo, who is playing for Caguas in the Puerto Rican Winter League.

I’ve attempted to compile a complete list, but I may have missed some players because it’s difficult to acquire information about the leagues. Feel free to get in touch with me if you think someone was inadvertently omitted and I’ll include them in next week’s entry.

Look for reports from the Caribbean leagues to appear on O’s on Deck every Wednesday for the remainder of the season.

Here are updates through Monday’s games on the players in the Orioles’ system:

Dominican Winter League

Fredy Deza, RHP – Deza pitched a scoreless inning against Escogido on Monday, but he’s struggled for most of the winter. The 25-year-old relief pitcher has an 8.49 ERA in 10 appearances for the Azucareros. He’s allowed 18 hits and three home runs in 11 2/3 innings. Opposing hitters are batting .360 against Deza., so there’s definitely plenty of room for improvement before the season ends.

Wilfredo Perez, LHP – The 24-year-old left-hander is 1-1 with a 7.11 ERA in eight appearances for the Estrellas. Perez has walked seven hitters and has eight strikeouts in 6 1/3 innings this season. He suffered the loss against Licey on Nov. 18 after allowing two runs without retiring a hitter. Perez bounced back with a strong outing against Escogido on Nov. 21. He struck out four batters and didn’t allow any base runners in 1 2/3 innings.

Jose Reyes, C – One of the newest additions to the organization, Reyes is hitting .222 (4-for-18) with two RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Estrellas. The 25-year-old catcher has two walks and four strikeouts this season, and all four of his hits have been singles. In his best performance so far in the Dominican Republic, Reyes was 2-for-3 with a walk and two runs scored against the Gigantes on Oct. 26.

Alfredo Simon, RHP – In his first two starts for the Gigantes, Simon is 1-0 with a 1.69 ERA. The 27-year-old right-hander earned the victory against the Azucareros on Nov. 21 after giving up one run and six hits in six innings. He had two strikeouts and didn’t walk anyone in the game. Simon allowed one run and four hits in 4 2/3 innings against Escogido in his first start on Nov. 14. Simon had a 6.23 ERA in four appearances (one start) for the Orioles in 2008.

Venezuelan Winter League

Victor Castillo, C – Castillo hasn’t played for La Guaira since going 0-for-2 with a strikeout against Lara on Oct. 22 in his only appearance. The 24-year-old catcher batted .231 with four home runs and 12 RBIs in 39 games for the Delmarva Shorebirds this season. He hit .294 with one home run and 27 RBIs in 81 games for Delmarva in 2007.

Carlos Rojas, 2B/SS – Rojas is hitting .211 (4-for-19) with three RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Caribes. The 24-year-old infielder hasn’t played since he was 0-for-3 with a walk against La Guaira on Nov. 11. He batted .247 with two home runs and 38 RBIs in 120 games for the Bowie Baysox this season.

Oscar Salazar, 1B/3B/LF – Salazar continues to lead the Venezuelan Winter League in batting average. The 30-year-old utility player is hitting .436 with six home runs and 21 RBIs in 26 games for La Guaira. He is tied for fifth in the league with 24 runs scored. Salazar also has seven doubles, two triples and three stolen bases. He was 3-for-4 with two RBIs and three runs scored against Aragua on Nov. 18.

Steve Torrealba, C/1B – The 30-year-old backup catcher is batting .182 (4-for-22) with four RBIs and five runs scored in 12 games for the Caribes this season. Torrealba, who hit .283 with eight home runs, 26 RBIs and 16 runs scored in 37 games for the Baysox in 2008, was 0-for-2 with a walk against La Guaira on Nov. 16. He has also received some playing time at first base in Venezuela.

Puerto Rican Winter League

Miguel Abreu, 2B – Abreu is hitting .250 (2-for-8) with one RBI and two runs scored in three games for Ponce. The 24-year-old infielder was 1-for-4 with a walk and two runs scored against Caguas on Nov. 23. He batted .275 with six home runs and 43 RBIs in 116 games for the Frederick Keys in 2008. Abreu had 24 doubles, 21 stolen bases and 55 runs scored for the Keys.

Mike Costanzo, 1B/3B – The 25-year-old infielder has received playing time at both corner infield positions in Puerto Rico, but he’s struggling at the plate so far this winter. Costanzo is hitting .071 (1-for-14) with five strikeouts in four games for Caguas. He was 0-for-3 with two walks, a stolen base and a run scored against Ponce on Nov. 23. This is a very small sample size, so it will be interesting to see how Costanzo performs for the rest of the season.

Mexican Pacific League

Jeff Nettles, SS/3B – The 30-year-old infielder is hitting .262 with one home run and six RBIs in 19 games for the Mochis Caneros, but he hasn’t played since Nov. 2. Nettles has hit successfully in eight of his past 10 games. During that span, he is batting .355 (11-for-31) with five RBIs and three runs scored. Nettles is only 2-for-13 with runners in scoring position.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The Surprise Rafters finished 12-26, which was the worst record in the Arizona Fall League. The Phoenix Desert Dogs won the National Division with an 18-18 record and the Peoria Javelinas finished 16-22. The Mesa Solar Sox and Peoria Saguaros tied atop the American Division (26-12), but Mesa advanced to play Phoenix in the championship game. The Scottsdale Scorpions finished in last place in the division (14-22).

The Desert Dogs captured their fifth consecutive league championship with a 10-4 victory over the Solar Sox. Josh Donaldson, a prospect with the Oakland Athletics, was 3-for-5 with a home run and four RBIs to lead Phoenix. Evan Frey, who plays in the Arizona Diamondbacks’ organization, was 2-for-4 with three RBIs.

Here are updates on the Orioles' prospects through the end of the season:

Blake Davis, SS – The 24-year-old shortstop received most of his playing time over the final two weeks of the season. Davis finished with a .161 batting average (9-for-56), seven RBIs and five runs scored. He was 4-for-5 with a walk and three RBIs on Nov. 8 against the Javelinas. On Nov. 19 against Phoenix, Davis was 2-for-5 with a double – his only extra-base hit in Arizona – and two RBIs.

Ryan Keefer, RHP – Keefer missed most of the winter season with an arm injury, and he finished with a 6.00 ERA in four appearances. The 27-year-old right-hander gave up two runs and five hits in three innings for Surprise. He allowed two hits and had three strikeouts in one inning against Scottsdale on Nov. 17 during his final game.

Brian Matusz, LHP – Matusz was 2-4 with a 4.73 ERA in seven appearances (six starts) for the Rafters. While the numbers show that he didn’t dominate the league, the 21-year-old left-hander’s first professional action wasn’t a total disaster. He had 31 strikeouts in 26 2/3 innings against some of the best prospects in the minor leagues. Matusz allowed at least two runs in six of his seven outings, but he also had at least five strikeouts in four of the seven. There’s definitely room for improvement, but the Orioles’ first-round draft pick showed that he’s capable of getting outs at the professional level.

Bob McCrory, RHP – McCrory didn’t pitch for the Rafters after Oct. 25. He surrendered two runs and three hits in one inning during that game against Mesa. In four games for Surprise, the 26-year-old relief pitcher had a 7.36 ERA. Earlier in the fall, McCrory experienced discomfort in his right elbow. The Orioles’ fourth-round pick in the 2003 draft allowed seven runs (three earned) and seven hits in 3 2/3 innings in Arizona.

Nolan Reimold, OF – The 25-year-old outfielder batted .261 with four home runs and 16 RBIs in 25 games for Surprise. Reimold struggled at the beginning of the winter, but he improved considerably by the end of the season. He hit .306 with five doubles, one home run and five RBIs in his final 10 games. The Orioles have taken a patient approach with Reimold, and it will be interesting to see when he’s finally given a chance to prove himself in the major leagues.

Brandon Snyder, 1B – While the Orioles had several high-profile prospects playing in Arizona, Snyder’s performance was probably the most important. After hitting .315 with 13 home runs and 80 RBIs in 116 games for the Frederick Keys in 2008, the 21-year-old first baseman showed that he’s able to hit against some of the best pitchers in the minor leagues. Snyder batted .349 with eight doubles, four home runs and 10 RBIs in 17 games for Surprise. The Orioles’ first-round draft pick in 2005 was 9-for-23 (.391) with three home runs and six RBIs in his final six games.

Chad Thall, LHP – Thall was 0-1 with a 10.22 ERA in nine appearances for the Rafters, but those numbers were inflated because he gave up six earned runs and five hits in 1/3 of an inning against Phoenix on Oct. 28. If you take away that outing, the 23-year-old left-hander allowed eight earned runs in 12 innings. That’s still not a great performance, but it’s much better than what he actually had. The 6-foot-4, 220-pound pitcher had 15 strikeouts and four walks in 12 1/3 innings for Surprise.

Matt Wieters, C – The 22-year-old catcher concluded his first professional season by hitting successfully in his final six games. Wieters hit .275 (11-for-40) with one home run and seven RBIs in his last 10 games with Surprise. He was 2-for-5 with two RBIs against Scottsdale on Nov. 17. Overall, Wieters batted .301 with one home run and 12 RBIs in 20 games for the Rafters. That’s still remarkable, but it doesn’t look as good after the Orioles’ first-round pick in the 2007 draft hit .355 with 27 home runs and 91 RBIs in 130 games split between the Keys and Bowie Baysox. It remains to be seen where Wieters begins next season, but he certainly lived up to the hype during his first season in the organization.

If you’re interested, here are some archived photos of Matusz and Wieters, as well as some of the Orioles’ previous first-round draft picks.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The West Oahu CaneFires won the West Division with a 19-14 record. The North Shore Honu (14-20) finished 5 1/2 games behind West Oahu in the division.

The CaneFires lost to the Waikiki BeachBoys, who won the East Division with a 19-17 record, in the championship game. The Honolulu Sharks finished 1 1/2 games behind the BeachBoys at 17-18.

Former Orioles starting pitcher Adam Loewen, who is attempting to return to the major leagues as a position player, hit .207 (6-for-29) with two RBIs and four runs scored in 10 games for West Oahu. The 24-year-old first baseman struck out eight times and had five walks during the season. All six of his hits were singles.

Here is the final update, through the end of the season, on the players in the Orioles’ minor league system who played for West Oahu in Hawaii Winter Baseball:

Tim Bascom, RHP – Bascom finished 1-3 with a 7.78 ERA in six starts for the CaneFires, but he didn’t pitch in November. He had 16 strikeouts and 10 walks in 19 2/3 innings in Hawaii. Bascom gave up five runs and four hits in his last start against North Shore on Oct. 30. The Orioles’ fourth-round pick in the 2007 draft walked three hitters and had four strikeouts in the game. The 23-year-old right-hander was 6-5 with a 5.78 ERA in 19 starts for the Frederick Keys in 2008, and he continued to struggle for West Oahu.

Wally Crancer, C/1B/DH – The 24-year-old utility player hit .224 with one home run and eight RBIs in 14 games for the CaneFires. Crancer struck out 13 times and scored seven runs in Hawaii. He was 2-for-5 with a double and three RBIs in his last game against Waikiki on Nov. 1. Crancer hit successfully in eight of his final 10 games for West Oahu.

Cliff Flagello, RHP – Flagello was 1-2 with a 4.70 ERA and three saves in 11 appearances for West Oahu. He had 14 strikeouts and walked seven hitters in 15 1/3 innings. The 23-year-old right-hander pitched a scoreless inning in his last game against North Shore on Nov. 14. He had one strikeout in the outing.

Sean Gleason, RHP – The 23-year-old right-hander finished 2-2 with a 6.08 ERA, but he pitched much better as a reliever for the CaneFires. After giving up 14 runs in 18 innings as a starter, Gleason only allowed two runs in 5 2/3 innings out of the bullpen. Despite walking two batters and surrendering a hit, he didn’t give up a run in an inning against Honolulu on Nov. 12. Opponents only batted .239 against Gleason, so his performance might not have been as bad as it appears with the high ERA.

Tyler Henson, 3B – After enduring a slump during the middle of the winter season, Henson finished strong for West Oahu. The 20-year-old third baseman hit .342 with one home run and eight RBIs in his last 10 games. Henson led the league in doubles (13), runs scored (28) and walks (25). He also played the most games (35) and finished second in strikeouts (44). Overall, the Orioles’ fifth-round pick in the 2006 draft batted .266 with one home run and 16 RBIs for the CaneFires.

Brian Parker, RHP – Parker finished with a 6.75 ERA in 11 appearances for the CaneFires. The 23-year-old relief pitcher allowed three runs and three hits in one inning during his final game against North Shore on Nov. 14. He also walked one hitter in the outing. Opponents hit .333 in 17 1/3 innings against the 6-foot-4, 195-pound right-handed pitcher. During the regular season, Parker was 7-5 with a 3.77 ERA in 39 games split between the Delmarva Shorebirds and Frederick Keys.

Chris Salberg, LHP – The Orioles’ strongest pitching performance in Hawaii came from the 24-year-old left-hander. Salberg was 4-0 with a 3.90 ERA in 12 appearances (four starts) for the CaneFires. He had 23 strikeouts and walked 16 hitters in 30 innings. The 6-foot-1, 185-pound pitcher earned the victory after giving up two runs and four hits in his final start against North Shore on Nov. 14.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Several players from the Orioles’ minor league system are participating in the various Caribbean leagues.

I’ve attempted to compile a list, but I may have missed some players because it’s difficult to acquire information about the leagues. Feel free to get in touch with me if you think someone was inadvertently omitted and I’ll include them in next week’s entry.

Look for reports from the Caribbean leagues to appear on O’s on Deck every Wednesday for the remainder of the season.

Here are updates through Monday’s games on the players in the Orioles’ system:

Dominican Winter League

Fredy Deza, RHP – Like he’s done for most of the winter, Deza struggled in his last appearance for the Azucareros. The 25-year-old relief pitcher allowed three runs and three hits in one inning against the Aguilas on Nov. 15. All three runs scored on a home run by Matt Carson with one out in the sixth inning. Deza has a 9.28 ERA in nine games in the Dominican Republic. He has given up three home runs and 18 hits in 10 2/3 innings.

Wilfredo Perez, LHP – Perez is 1-0 with a 5.79 ERA in six appearances for the Estrellas. He has walked six hitters in 4 2/3 innings this season, but he pitched well against Escogido on Nov. 16. The 24-year-old left-hander, who was added to the Orioles’ 40-man roster, retired both hitters he faced in the sixth inning. It was the first game in which he didn’t allow a walk.

Alfredo Simon, RHP – Simon made his debut for the Gigantes on Nov. 14. The 27-year-old right-hander started the game and allowed one run and four hits in 4 2/3 innings. Despite his strong performance, Simon didn’t factor in the decision. He had three strikeouts and didn’t issue any walks in the game. Simon had a 6.23 ERA in four appearances (one start) for the Orioles in 2008.

Venezuelan Winter League

Victor Castillo, C – Castillo hasn’t played for La Guaira since going 0-for-2 with a strikeout against Lara on Oct. 22 in his only appearance. The 24-year-old catcher batted .231 with four home runs and 12 RBIs in 39 games for the Delmarva Shorebirds this season. He hit .294 with one home run and 27 RBIs in 81 games for Delmarva in 2007.

Carlos Rojas, 2B/SS – Rojas is hitting .211 (4-for-19) with three RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Caribes. The 24-year-old infielder has received more playing time after seeing little action during the first few weeks of the season. Rojas was 0-for-3 with a walk against La Guaira on Nov. 11. He batted .247 with two home runs and 38 RBIs in 120 games for the Bowie Baysox this season.

Oscar Salazar, 1B/3B/LF – Salazar is hitting .439 with six home runs and 18 RBIs in 22 games for La Guaira. The 30-year-old utility player is first in the Venezuelan Winter League in batting average and tied for fifth in runs scored (21). He also has six doubles, two triples and three stolen bases. Salazar was 2-for-3 with a home run and four RBIs against Lara on Nov. 15. He was 2-for-3 with a double and a walk against the Caribes on the following night.

Steve Torrealba, C/1B – The 30-year-old backup catcher is batting .182 (4-for-22) with four RBIs and five runs scored in 11 games for the Caribes this season. Torrealba, who hit .283 with eight home runs, 26 RBIs and 16 runs scored in 37 games for the Baysox in 2008, was 0-for-2 with a walk in his last game against La Guaira on Nov. 16. He has also received some playing time at first base in Venezuela.

Puerto Rican Winter League

Miguel Abreu, 2B – Abreu was 1-for-4 with an RBI in his debut for Ponce against Carolina on Nov. 14. The 24-year-old infielder batted .275 with six home runs and 43 RBIs in 116 games for the Frederick Keys in 2008. He had 24 doubles, 21 stolen bases and 55 runs scored for the Keys.

Mexican Pacific League

Jeff Nettles, SS/3B – The 30-year-old infielder is hitting .262 with one home run and six RBIs in 19 games for the Mochis Caneros, but he hasn’t played since Nov. 2. Nettles has hit successfully in eight of his past 10 games. During that span, he is batting .355 (11-for-31) with five RBIs and three runs scored. Nettles is only 2-for-13 with runners in scoring position.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 9:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

With four games remaining in the regular season, the Surprise Rafters are 10-24 in the Arizona Fall League. They are still in last place in the National Division. The Phoenix Desert Dogs lead the division with an 18-14 record and the Peoria Javelinas are 14-20. The Peoria Saguaros and Mesa Solar Sox are tied for the lead in the American Division. Both teams are 23-11 and 10 games ahead of the Scottsdale Scorpions (12-20).

Here are updates on the Orioles' prospects through Sunday:

Blake Davis, SS – Most of the playing time that Davis has received in Arizona has occurred over the past two weeks. The 24-year-old shortstop has played in eight games since Nov. 3 for the Rafters, but he’s continued to struggle. Davis was only 5-for-31 (.161) with four RBIs during that span, and that’s including four hits and three RBIs in a game against the Javelinas on Nov. 8. Overall, he is hitting .136 (6-for-44) with five RBIs and three runs scored in 11 games for Surprise.

Ryan Keefer, RHP – Keefer finally returned to the Rafters after missing most of the winter season with an arm injury. The 27-year-old right-hander gave up one hit during a scoreless inning against Scottsdale on Nov. 10. He surrendered a solo home run to Mesa left fielder Matt Young in the eighth inning on Nov. 13. Keefer walked one hitter and had one strikeout during one inning of work in the game.

Brian Matusz, LHP – The 21-year-old left-hander is 2-3 with a 4.37 ERA in six starts for Surprise. Matusz has 27 strikeouts, and he’s only walked five hitters in 22 2/3 innings. The Orioles’ first-round draft pick has allowed five home runs for the Rafters, but opponents are only hitting .230 against him. Matusz suffered the loss against Scottsdale on Nov. 10 after giving up two runs and three hits in four innings. He picked up his second victory of the season after surrendering two runs and five hits in 4 2/3 innings against the Javelinas on Nov. 15.

Bob McCrory, RHP – McCrory hasn’t pitched for the Rafters since Oct. 25. He surrendered two runs and three hits in one inning during that game against Mesa. In four games for Surprise, the 26-year-old relief pitcher has a 7.36 ERA. Earlier in the fall, McCrory experienced discomfort in his right elbow. The Orioles’ fourth-round pick in the 2003 draft has allowed seven runs (three earned) and seven hits in 3 2/3 innings in Arizona.

Nolan Reimold, OF – Reimold is hitting .378 (14-for-37) with three doubles, two home runs and nine RBIs in his past 10 games for Surprise. The 25-year-old outfielder has raised his batting average to .269 after a terrible start in Arizona. He was 2-for-4 with a double and two RBIs against Scottsdale on Nov. 10. Overall, Reimold has four home runs and 15 RBIs in 21 games for the Rafters.

Brandon Snyder, 1B – The 21-year-old first baseman has been a pleasant surprise in Arizona. As the only representative for the Orioles from the Single-A Frederick Keys, Snyder has been playing well against tough competition. He is hitting .309 (17-for-55) with four home runs and nine RBIs in 15 games for Surprise. Snyder was 2-for-3 with a home run and two RBIs against Scottsdale on Nov. 11. The Orioles’ first-round draft pick in 2005 has seven doubles and 10 runs scored for the Rafters.

Chad Thall, LHP – Thall is 0-1 with a 10.97 ERA in seven appearances for the Rafters, but he hasn’t pitched since Oct. 31. Those numbers are particularly high because of his outing against Phoenix on Oct. 28, in which the 23-year-old left-hander gave up six runs and five hits in 1/3 of an inning. Thall rebounded with four strikeouts in two scoreless innings against Scottsdale in his last appearance, but he’s not likely to significantly reduce his ERA before the season is over. The 6-foot-4, 220-pound pitcher has 13 strikeouts and four walks in 10 2/3 innings for Surprise.

Matt Wieters, C – The 22-year-old catcher hasn’t had two hits in a game since Oct. 17 against Phoenix. Wieters only batted .211 (8-for-38) in his past 10 games, but he hit successfully in eight of them. He was 1-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored against Scottsdale on Nov. 10. The Orioles’ 2007 first-round draft pick is hitting .281 with one home run and 10 RBIs in 18 games for the Rafters. Wieters has four doubles, a triple and 10 runs scored for Surprise.

If you’re interested, here are some archived photos of Matusz and Wieters, as well as some of the Orioles’ previous first-round draft picks.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

With the championship game scheduled for Sunday, the Hawaii Winter Baseball season will be concluding soon. Through Thursday, the West Oahu CaneFires are in first place in the West Division with an 18-14 record. They are 4 1/2 games ahead of the North Shore Honu (14-19) and have already clinched a spot in the championship game. The Waikiki BeachBoys lead the East Division with an 18-16 record and the Honolulu Sharks are 16-17.

On Wednesday, former Orioles starting pitcher Adam Loewen, who is attempting to rejuvenate his career as a position player, was 3-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored against Honolulu. Loewen also picked up his first stolen base in the game. Overall, the 24-year-old first baseman is hitting .240 (6-for-25) with four runs scored and two RBIs in nine games for West Oahu. He has six strikeouts and five walks.

Here is an update, through Thursday’s games, on the players in the Orioles’ minor league system who are with West Oahu in Hawaii Winter Baseball:

Tim Bascom, RHP – Bascom is 1-3 with a 7.78 ERA in six starts for the CaneFires, but he hasn’t pitched in November. He has 16 strikeouts and 10 walks in 19 2/3 innings in Hawaii. Bascom gave up five runs and four hits in his last start against North Shore on Oct. 30. The Orioles’ fourth-round pick in the 2007 draft walked three hitters and had four strikeouts in the game. The 23-year-old right-hander was 6-5 with a 5.78 ERA in 19 starts for the Frederick Keys in 2008, and he’s continued to struggle for West Oahu.

Wally Crancer, C/1B/DH – In 14 games for the CaneFires, Crancer is hitting .224 with one home run and eight RBIs. The 24-year-old utility player has struck out 13 times and scored seven runs in Hawaii. He was 2-for-5 with a double and three RBIs in his last game against Waikiki on Nov. 1. Crancer has hit successfully in eight of his past 10 games for West Oahu.

Cliff Flagello, RHP – Flagello has given up at least one earned run in his past five appearances for West Oahu. The 23-year-old right-hander allowed two runs (one earned) and two hits in two innings against Waikiki on Nov. 11. He is 1-2 with a 5.02 ERA and three saves in 10 games for the CaneFires. Flagello has 13 strikeouts and he’s issued seven walks in 14 1/3 innings.

Sean Gleason, RHP – Gleason is 2-2 with a 6.08 ERA in eight games (four starts) for the CaneFires. The 23-year-old right-hander has pitched much better since moving to the bullpen on Oct. 22. He gave up two runs and two hits in 1 2/3 innings during his first relief appearance, but hasn’t surrendered any runs in his past four innings. Gleason has allowed base runners in each game, but he’s shown the ability to escape without letting the other team score.

Tyler Henson, 3B – It looks like Henson has emerged from his recent slump for the CaneFires. The 20-year-old third baseman had two hits in each of his past five games. During that stretch, he was 10-for-21 with a home run – his first of the season – and five RBIs. Henson continues to lead the league in runs scored (27) and walks (25), but he’s also tied with the most strikeouts (43). The Orioles’ fifth-round pick in the 2006 draft is hitting .269 with 12 doubles, three triples, one home run and 16 RBIs in 34 games for West Oahu.

Brian Parker, RHP – Parker has a 5.51 ERA in 10 appearances for the CaneFires. The 23-year-old reliever gave up one run and three hits in two innings against Waikiki on Nov. 11. He had three strikeouts in the game. Opponents are batting .313 in 16 1/3 innings against the 6-foot-4, 195-pound right-handed pitcher. During the regular season, Parker was 7-5 with a 3.77 ERA in 39 games split between the Delmarva Shorebirds and Frederick Keys.

Chris Salberg, LHP – Salberg tossed six innings, allowing only an unearned run and four hits, against North Shore on Nov. 8 to pick up his third victory. The 24-year-old left-hander had four strikeouts and walked two hitters in the game. Overall, he is 3-0 with a 3.96 ERA in 25 innings for the CaneFires. The 6-foot-1, 185-pound pitcher is tied for second on the team with 11 appearances.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 10:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Several players from the Orioles’ minor league system are participating in the various Caribbean leagues. This week’s update, however, contains less information because many players from the organization who were playing in the Caribbean leagues declared for free agency on Nov. 6.

If you’re interested, feel free to check out the full list of minor league free agents, which can be found on Baseball America’s Web site. As always, feel free to get in touch with me if you think players have been inadvertently omitted and I’ll include them in next week’s entry.

Look for reports from the Caribbean leagues to appear on O’s on Deck every Wednesday for the remainder of the season.

Here are updates through Tuesday’s games on the players in the Orioles’ system:

Dominican Winter League

Fredy Deza, RHP – The 25-year-old relief pitcher has given up nine runs (eight earned) and 14 hits in eight innings for the Azucareros. Opponents are batting .378 against Deza this season, and he has walked six hitters in his seven games. He allowed two runs and five hits in two innings against the Aguilas on Nov. 7. In his last appearance, Deza surrendered two runs (one earned) and three hits in one inning against the Estrellas on Nov. 10.

Wilfredo Perez, LHP – Perez is 1-0 with a 6.75 ERA in five appearances for the Estrellas. He has struggled with his control, issuing six walks in four innings this season. The 24-year-old left-hander has walked at least one hitter in each game. Despite not giving up any hits against the Gigantes on Nov. 9, Perez allowed one run. He walked one hitter and had one strikeout in the game.

Venezuelan Winter League

Victor Castillo, C – Castillo was 0-for-2 with a strikeout against Lara on Oct. 22 in his only game for La Guaira so far this season. The 24-year-old catcher batted .231 with four home runs and 12 RBIs in 39 games for the Delmarva Shorebirds this season. He hit .294 with one home run and 27 RBIs in 81 games for Delmarva in 2007.

Carlos Rojas, 2B/SS – Rojas is hitting .211 (4-for-19) with three RBIs and two runs scored in 11 games for the Caribes. The 24-year-old infielder has played regularly after seeing little action during the first few weeks of the season. Rojas was 1-for-3 with an RBI and two runs scored against La Guaira on Nov. 5. He batted .247 with two home runs and 38 RBIs in 120 games for Bowie this season.

Oscar Salazar, 1B/3B/LF – Salazar continues to play well for La Guaira. The 30-year-old utility player is hitting .469 (30-for-64) with five home runs and 13 RBIs in 17 games. He is first in the Venezuelan Winter League in batting average and tied for fifth in runs scored (18). Salazar was 2-for-4 with a solo home run and three runs scored against Magallanes on Nov. 8. He also hit a home run against Margarita on the following night.

Steve Torrealba, C/1B – The 30-year-old backup catcher is batting .222 (4-for-18) with four RBIs and five runs scored in eight games for the Caribes this season. Torrealba was 2-for-3 with two walks against La Guaira on Tuesday. He had a double, two RBIs and two runs scored while playing first base in the game. Torrealba hit .283 with eight home runs, 26 RBIs and 16 runs scored in 37 games for the Baysox this season.

Mexican Pacific League

Jeff Nettles, SS/3B – The 30-year-old infielder is hitting .262 with one home run and six RBIs in 19 games for the Mochis Caneros. Nettles has hit successfully in eight of his past 10 games. During that span, he is 11-for-31 with five RBIs and three runs scored. Nettles is hitting .381 (8-for-21) against left-handed pitchers, but he’s only hitting .200 (8-for-40) against right-handers.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

The Surprise Rafters are only 9-19, through Sunday, but they have won four of their past six games. Despite their recent success, the Rafters are still in last place in the National Division of the Arizona Fall League. The Phoenix Desert Dogs lead the division with a 16-11 record and the Peoria Javelinas are 11-17. The Peoria Saguaros are in first place in the American Division with a 19-9 record. The Mesa Solar Sox are 18-10 and the Scottsdale Scorpions are 10-17.

Here are updates on the Orioles' prospects through Sunday:

Blake Davis, SS – After not playing for over two weeks in Arizona, Davis has played in four of the Rafters’ past six games. The 24-year-old shortstop was 4-for-5 with three RBIs and a walk against the Javelinas on Nov. 8. He had a two-run single in the eighth inning to lead Surprise to a 9-6 victory. Davis didn’t have a good game, however, against the Javelinas on Nov. 5, when he was 0-for-4 with three fielding errors. Overall, Davis is hitting .200 (6-for-30) with five RBIs and two runs scored in seven games for Surprise.

Ryan Keefer, RHP – The 27-year-old right-hander hasn’t pitched for Surprise since injuring his arm on Oct. 15 against Scottsdale. Keefer surrendered a leadoff home run in the eighth inning to Scorpions third baseman Ryan Rohlinger before leaving the game.

Brian Matusz, LHP – Matusz has given up six runs and nine hits in seven innings during his past two starts for Surprise. The 21-year-old left-hander had six strikeouts in four innings against Phoenix on Nov. 4, but he gave up three earned runs and four hits. He is 1-2 with a 4.50 ERA in four starts for Surprise. The Orioles’ first-round draft pick has 16 strikeouts in 14 innings, but he’s allowed four home runs. Matusz is scheduled to pitch today against Scottsdale.

Bob McCrory, RHP – McCrory hasn’t pitched for the Rafters since Oct. 25. He surrendered two runs and three hits in one inning during that game against Mesa. In four games for Surprise, the 26-year-old relief pitcher has a 7.36 ERA. Earlier in the fall, McCrory experienced discomfort in his right elbow. The Orioles’ fourth-round pick in the 2003 draft has allowed five runs (three earned) and seven hits in three innings since returning from the injury.

Nolan Reimold, OF – The 25-year-old outfielder has recovered from a slow start in Arizona. In his past 10 games, Reimold is hitting .368 (14-for-38) with three home runs and eight RBIs. He also has three doubles and seven runs scored during that span. Reimold was 2-for-4 with an RBI double and a solo home run against Phoenix on Nov. 4. He had two of the Rafters’ three hits in the team’s 5-2 loss to the Desert Dogs. Reimold was 3-for-3 with a walk against the Javelinas on Nov. 6. The Orioles’ second-round pick in the 2005 draft is batting .273 with four home runs and 13 RBIs in 18 games for Surprise.

Brandon Snyder, 1B – The 21-year-old first baseman is hitting .306 with three home runs and seven RBIs in 13 games for Surprise. Snyder also has six doubles and nine runs scored in Arizona. The Orioles’ first-round draft pick in 2005 was 2-for-5 with two home runs and three RBIs against the Javelinas on Nov. 5. Defensively, Snyder has committed five errors for the Rafters.

Chad Thall, LHP – Thall is 0-1 with a 10.97 ERA in seven appearances for the Rafters. Those numbers are particularly high because of his outing against Phoenix on Oct. 28, in which the 23-year-old left-hander gave up six runs and five hits in 1/3 of an inning. Thall rebounded with four strikeouts in two scoreless innings against Scottsdale on Oct. 31, but it’s going to take a few more strong performances to reduce his ERA to a respectable level. The 6-foot-4, 220-pound pitcher has 13 strikeouts and four walks in 10 2/3 innings for Surprise.

Matt Wieters, C – In his past 10 games, Wieters is hitting .211 (8-for-38). The 22-year-old catcher hasn’t had two hits in a game since Oct. 17 against Phoenix. Overall, the Orioles’ 2007 first-round draft pick is batting .286 with one home run and eight RBIs for the Rafters. Wieters has four doubles, a triple and nine runs scored. He has 12 strikeouts and 12 walks in 16 games for Surprise.

If you’re interested, here are some archived photos of Matusz and Wieters, as well as some of the Orioles’ previous first-round draft picks.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 12:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Through Thursday, the West Oahu CaneFires are 14-14 and 1 1/2 games ahead of the North Shore Honu (13-16) in the West Division. The Honolulu Sharks lead the East Division with a 16-13 record and the Waikiki BeachBoys are 14-14.

Before we get into the statistics for the Orioles’ prospects, let’s look at how one of the team’s former first-round draft picks is performing in Hawaii. Adam Loewen, who is playing first base for West Oahu, is 3-for-15 with an RBI and a run scored in six games. All three of his hits were singles.

Here is an update, through Thursday’s games, on the players in the Orioles’ minor league system who are with West Oahu in Hawaii Winter Baseball:

Tim Bascom, RHP – The 23-year-old right-hander was 6-5 with a 5.78 ERA in 19 starts for the Frederick Keys in 2008, and he’s continued to struggle for West Oahu. Bascom is 1-3 with a 7.78 ERA in six starts for the CaneFires. He has 16 strikeouts and 10 walks in 19 2/3 innings in Hawaii. Bascom gave up five runs and four hits against North Shore on Oct. 30. The Orioles’ fourth-round pick in the 2007 draft walked three hitters and had four strikeouts in the game.

Wally Crancer, C/1B/DH – Crancer is hitting .224 with one home run and eight RBIs in 14 games for West Oahu. The 24-year-old utility player has struck out 13 times and scored seven runs in Hawaii. He was 2-for-5 with a double and three RBIs against Waikiki on Nov. 1. Crancer has hit successfully in eight of his past 10 games for the CaneFires.

Cliff Flagello, RHP – After allowing no earned runs in his first five appearances for West Oahu, Flagello has given up at least one earned run in his past four games. The 23-year-old right-hander surrendered three runs and four hits in two innings against Waikiki on Oct. 31. He allowed two runs and three hits in one inning against the same team on Nov. 2. Flagello is 1-2 with a 5.11 ERA and three saves in 12 1/3 innings for the CaneFires.

Sean Gleason, RHP – The 23-year-old right-hander is 1-2 with a 6.97 ERA in six games (four starts) for West Oahu. Gleason pitched a scoreless inning in his last appearance against Waikiki on Nov. 2. He has given up four home runs and walked 11 hitters in 20 2/3 innings in Hawaii. Gleason was 12-2 with a 2.63 ERA in 30 games for the Delmarva Shorebirds during the regular season.

Tyler Henson, 3B – Henson has been struggling recently for West Oahu. The 20-year-old third baseman is only batting .182 (6-for-33) with 17 strikeouts in his past 10 games. Despite his recent slump, Henson is still first in the league in runs scored (23) and walks (25). He is also tied for the most doubles in the league with 11. Overall, the Orioles’ fifth-round pick in the 2006 draft is hitting .224 with 11 RBIs and 36 strikeouts – second in the league – in 29 games for the CaneFires.

Brian Parker, RHP – Parker has a 5.65 ERA in nine appearances for the CaneFires. The 23-year-old reliever pitched poorly against Waikiki on Nov. 1. He gave up four runs and five hits in 1/3 of an inning during the game. Parker rebounded to throw 1 1/3 scoreless innings, allowing two hits and two walks, against Honolulu on Wednesday. Opponents are batting .310 in 14 1/3 innings against the 6-foot-4, 195-pound right-handed pitcher.

Chris Salberg, LHP – Although he gave up four runs and five hits in 4 2/3 innings against Waikiki on Nov. 1, the 24-year-old left-hander picked up his second victory. Salberg walked three hitters and had three strikeouts in the game. Overall, he is 2-0 with a 5.21 ERA for the CaneFires. The 6-foot-1, 185-pound pitcher is second on the team with 10 appearances.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 2:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (12)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Several players from the Orioles’ minor league system are participating in the various Caribbean leagues. I’ve attempted to compile a list, but I may have missed some players because it’s difficult to acquire information about the leagues.

Also, some players on the list could be free agents and may not return to the organization in 2009. Feel free to get in touch with me if you think someone was inadvertently omitted and I’ll include them in next week’s entry.

Look for reports from the Caribbean leagues to appear on O’s on Deck every Wednesday for the remainder of the season.

Here are updates through Monday’s games on the players in the Orioles’ system:

Dominican Winter League

Fredy Deza, RHP – The 25-year-old relief pitcher has experienced mixed results in five appearances for the Azucareros. Deza didn’t allow any runs in three of his outings, but he gave up five total earned runs in the other two games. He tossed 1/3 of an inning on Oct. 28 against the Aguilas and surrendered one hit and one walk. Deza gave up two runs and two hits against the Gigantes on Oct. 30. He walked one and had three strikeouts in the game. In his last appearance, Deza pitched a scoreless inning against the Estrellas on Nov. 2.

Andy Mitchell, RHP – In all four appearances (three starts) for the Aguilas, Mitchell has given up at least two runs. The best start for the 30-year-old right-hander was on Oct. 28 against the Azucareros. He only allowed two runs and five hits in five innings, but he also issued five walks. On Monday, Mitchell struggled against the Estrellas. He gave up five runs and four hits in 1 2/3 innings. Overall, Mitchell is 0-1 with an 11.12 ERA and 15 walks in 11 1/3 innings.

Wilfredo Perez, LHP – The 24-year-old left-hander is 1-0 with a 5.40 ERA in four appearances for the Estrellas. Perez has pitched three scoreless outings, but his ERA is high because he gave up two runs in 1/3 of an inning against Licey on Oct. 24. He didn’t allow any runs against the Gigantes on Oct. 29, but he walked two and surrendered a hit in 2/3 of an inning.

Felix Romero, RHP – The 28-year-old relief pitcher gave up one run and two hits in 1 2/3 innings against the Azucareros on Nov. 2. Romero had three strikeouts in the game. He is 0-1 with a 3.24 ERA in four appearances (one start) for the Estrellas. Romero has eight strikeouts and he’s walked four hitters in 8 1/3 innings this season. Opponents are batting .172 against him.

Luis Terrero, OF – Terrero is hitting .269 with three doubles, four RBIs and 11 runs scored in 15 games for the Aguilas this season. The 28-year-old outfielder has scored eight runs in his past 10 games, including one run in each of the past six. He has struck out 16 times, however, so far in 2008. Terrero was 1-for-2 with a double against the Estrellas on Monday.

Venezuelan Winter League

Gerardo Casadiego, RHP – The 27-year-old relief pitcher has a 7.04 ERA and one save in eight appearances for La Guaira. Casadiego gave up three runs and five hits in one inning against Aragua on Nov. 1. He collected the save after allowing one hit in 1 1/3 scoreless innings against the Caribes on Monday.

Victor Castillo, C – Castillo was 0-for-2 with a strikeout against Lara on Oct. 22 in his only game for La Guaira so far this season. The 24-year-old catcher batted .231 with four home runs and 12 RBIs in 39 games for the Delmarva Shorebirds this season. He hit .294 with one home run and 27 RBIs in 81 games for Delmarva in 2007.

Cory Doyne, RHP – The 27-year-old relief pitcher has not allowed any runs in 5 1/3 innings for La Guaira in 2008. Doyne has three saves and he’s only given up two hits in five appearances. The 6-foot-2, 240-pound pitcher tossed a perfect inning against Margarita in his last outing on Oct. 30. Doyne had a 3.43 ERA in 17 games while splitting time between the Gulf Coast League Orioles, Aberdeen IronBirds, Frederick Keys and Norfolk Tides in 2008.

Luis Hernandez, SS – Hernandez, who was the starting shortstop for the Orioles on Opening Day, is hitting .308 (12-for-39) with six RBIs and five runs scored in 10 games for La Guaira. The 24-year-old infielder was 3-for-5 with a double, an RBI and a run scored against Caracas on Oct. 31. Hernandez is only 2-for-11, however, in the first three games in November.

Carlos Rojas, 2B/SS – The 24-year-old infielder has played regularly for the Caribes recently after seeing little action during the first few weeks of the season. Rojas, who played second base for the Bowie Baysox in 2008, is 3-for-9 with two RBIs in three games in November. He had a two-run single against Caracas on Nov. 2. Rojas batted .247 with two home runs and 38 RBIs in 120 games for Bowie this season.

Oscar Salazar, 1B/3B/LF – Salazar is dominating in the Dominican Republic so far this season. The 30-year-old utility player is hitting .511 (23-for-45) with three home runs and 11 RBIs in 11 games for La Guaira. Salazar has hit safely in eight consecutive games and he’s collected at least two hits in each of his past five. He has displayed versatility by playing first base, third base, left field and designated hitter. Salazar was 2-for-4 with two home runs and four RBIs against the Caribes on Monday.

Steve Torrealba, C – The 30-year-old backup catcher is 1-for-12 in five games for the Caribes so far this season. Torrealba was 1-for-2 with a walk and a run scored against Magallanes on Oct. 30. He hit .283 with eight home runs, 26 RBIs and 16 runs scored in 37 games for the Baysox this season.

Mexican Pacific League

Jeff Nettles, SS/3B – Nettles is batting .262 with one home run and six RBIs in 19 games for the Mochis Caneros. The 30-year-old infielder has hit successfully in six of his past seven games. During that span, he is 9-for-20 with two RBIs and two runs scored. Nettles is hitting .381 (8-for-21) against left-handed pitchers, but he’s only hitting .200 (8-for-40) against right-handers.

Chris Roberson, OF – Roberson is currently leading the league in batting average (.398). The 29-year-old outfielder is also first in hits (33), second in doubles (eight), third in stolen bases (six) and tied for third in runs scored (18). He is 6-for-10 with a double and six runs scored in two games in November. Roberson was 4-for-5 with four runs scored against Mexicali on Nov. 1.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 1:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Through Sunday, the Surprise Rafters have lost 10 of their past 11 games. They are 5-17 and in last place in the National Division of the Arizona Fall League. The Phoenix Desert Dogs lead the division with a 13-9 record and the Peoria Javelinas are 10-12. The Mesa Solar Sox are in first place in the American Division with a 16-6 record. The Peoria Saguaros are 15-7 and the Scottsdale Scorpions are 7-15.

Here are updates on the Orioles' prospects through Sunday:

Blake Davis, SS – The 24-year-old shortstop hasn’t played for Surprise since Oct. 18. Davis is 1-for-13 (.077) with an RBI and two runs scored in three games for the Rafters. I’m not sure why he’s been out of the lineup for so long, but I’ll let you know if I find out any explanation about his absence.

Ryan Keefer, RHP – Keefer is another player from the Orioles’ minor league system who hasn’t appeared for the Rafters in a long time. The 27-year-old right-hander hasn’t pitched for Surprise since injuring his arm on Oct. 15 against Scottsdale. He surrendered a leadoff home run in the eighth inning to Scorpions third baseman Ryan Rohlinger before leaving the game.

Brian Matusz, LHP – After pitching well in his first two starts for Surprise, in addition to a solid outing in the league’s third annual Rising Stars Showcase, Matusz ran into some trouble in his third appearance. The 21-year-old left-hander picked up his first loss of the winter season after giving up three runs and five hits in three innings against the Saguaros on Oct. 29. Matusz walked one and had one strikeout, but the most alarming statistic is that he allowed three home runs. He threw 59 pitches (36 strikes) in the game. The Orioles’ first-round draft pick is 1-1 with a 3.60 ERA in three starts for Surprise. Matusz has 10 strikeouts and three walks in 10 innings in Arizona.

Bob McCrory, RHP – McCrory has a 7.36 ERA in four games for Surprise. He has given up seven runs (three earned) in 3 2/3 innings. Earlier in the fall, the 26-year-old relief pitcher experienced discomfort in his right elbow. McCrory has struggled in three appearances since returning from the injury. The Orioles’ fourth-round pick in the 2003 draft has allowed five runs (three earned) and seven hits in three innings during those three games.

Nolan Reimold, OF – Reimold is 10-for-31 (.323) with three home runs and eight RBIs in his past eight games. The 25-year-old outfielder was 2-for-3 with a three-run home run and two walks against Scottsdale on Saturday. He was 2-for-4 with an RBI single and a walk against Phoenix on Oct. 28. Overall, the Orioles’ second-round pick in the 2005 draft is batting .231 with three home runs and 11 RBIs in 14 games for the Rafters. Reimold has three doubles and eight runs scored.

Brandon Snyder, 1B – The 21-year-old first baseman is batting .351 (13-for-37) with one home run and four RBIs in 10 games for Surprise. Snyder also has six doubles and seven runs scored. He was 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored against Phoenix on Oct. 27. While he’s doing well offensively, Snyder needs to improve on his defense. The Orioles’ first-round draft pick in 2005 has committed five errors for the Rafters.

Chad Thall, LHP – Thall is 0-1 with a 10.97 ERA in seven appearances for the Rafters. Those numbers are particularly high because of his outing against Phoenix on Oct. 28, in which the 23-year-old left-hander gave up six runs and five hits in 1/3 of an inning. Thall rebounded with four strikeouts in two scoreless innings against Scottsdale on Oct. 31, but it’s going to take a few more strong performances to reduce his ERA to a respectable level. The 6-foot-4, 220-pound pitcher has 13 strikeouts and four walks in 10 2/3 innings for Surprise.

Matt Wieters, C – In his past 10 games, Wieters is only hitting .216 (8-for-37). One of those hits was a home run against Phoenix on Oct. 27, which was his first in Arizona. Overall, the 22-year-old catcher is batting .304 (14-for-46) with one home run and eight RBIs in 13 games. The Orioles’ first-round draft pick in 2007 has four doubles and a triple for the Rafters.

If you’re interested, here are some archived photos of Matusz and Wieters, as well as some of the Orioles’ previous first-round draft picks.

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

Through Wednesday, the West Oahu CaneFires are 12-11 and three games ahead of the North Shore Honu in the West Division. The Honolulu Sharks lead the East Division with a 13-9 record and the Waikiki BeachBoys are 11-11.

Here is an update, through Wednesday’s games, on the players in the Orioles’ minor league system who are with West Oahu in Hawaii Winter Baseball:

Tim Bascom, RHP – The 23-year-old right-hander hasn’t pitched since he struggled against Waikiki on Oct. 22. Bascom suffered his second loss of the winter after giving up seven runs (five earned) and six hits in 4 1/3 innings. He walked two hitters and had one strikeout in the game. The Orioles’ fourth-round pick in the 2007 draft is 1-2 with a 6.48 ERA in five starts for West Oahu. He has 12 strikeouts and seven walks in 16 2/3 innings in Hawaii.

Wally Crancer, C/1B/DH – On Wednesday, Crancer played for the first time in a week for the CaneFires. The 24-year-old utility player was 0-for-3 with a walk and a strikeout in the game against North Shore. Crancer is now hitting .205 with one home run and five RBIs in 13 games for West Oahu. Despite the low batting average, he has hit successfully in seven of his past nine games.

Cliff Flagello, RHP – Flagello has been one of the most reliable relievers for West Oahu this winter. The 23-year-old right-hander is 1-0 with a 1.93 ERA and three saves in seven appearances for the CaneFires. He has 11 strikeouts and five walks in 9 1/3 innings. Flagello, however, has allowed five runs (two earned) and four hits in 2 1/3 innings during his past two appearances.

Sean Gleason, RHP – The 23-year-old right-hander is third on the CaneFires with 19 2/3 innings, but he hasn’t been effective so far this winter. Gleason is 1-2 with a 7.32 ERA in five games (four starts) for West Oahu. He has given up four home runs and walked 11 hitters. Gleason allowed two runs and two hits in 1 2/3 innings during his last appearance against Waikiki on Oct. 22. He was 12-2 with a 2.63 ERA in 30 games for the Delmarva Shorebirds during the regular season.

Tyler Henson, 3B – Henson is only batting .139 (5-for-36) with 18 strikeouts in his past 10 games. Despite his recent struggles, the 20-year-old third baseman still leads the league in runs scored (20) and walks (20). He is also second in the league in doubles (10). Henson was 2-for-4 with a double and a triple during Wednesday’s game against North Shore, so maybe he’s on his way to escaping his recent slump. Overall, the Orioles’ fifth-round pick in the 2006 draft is hitting .238 with five RBIs and 28 strikeouts in 23 games for West Oahu.

Brian Parker, RHP – Parker tossed three straight scoreless appearances before giving up one run and two hits in two innings against North Shore on Oct. 28. He had one strikeout in the game. The 23-year-old reliever has a 3.55 ERA in 12 2/3 innings for West Oahu this season. The 6-foot-4, 195-pound right-hander has nine strikeouts and six walks in seven appearances.

Chris Salberg, LHP – The 24-year-old left-hander is 1-0 with a 4.40 ERA in 14 1/3 innings for the CaneFires. Salberg walked one and gave up one run against North Shore on Oct. 28. He has made nine appearances this winter for West Oahu, which is tied for the most on the team. The 6-foot-1, 185-pound pitcher has 13 strikeouts and nine walks.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Several players from the Orioles’ minor league system are participating in the various Caribbean leagues. I’ve attempted to compile a list, but I may have missed some players because it’s difficult to acquire information about the leagues.

Also, some players on the list could be free agents and may not return to the organization in 2009. Feel free to get in touch with me if you think someone was inadvertently omitted and I’ll include them in next week’s entry.

Look for reports from the Caribbean leagues to appear on O’s on Deck every Wednesday for the remainder of the season.

Here are updates through Monday’s games on the players in the Orioles’ system:

Dominican Winter League

Fredy Deza, RHP – The 25-year-old relief pitcher showed improvement in his second appearance of the season for the Azucareros. After giving up three runs and two hits in 1 1/3 innings during his first game in the Dominican Republic, Deza didn’t allow any runs or hits against Licey on Oct. 26. He walked one hitter in the game.

Andy Mitchell, RHP – Mitchell has struggled with his command during his first two appearances of the season for Aguilas. The 30-year-old pitcher has walked nine hitters in 4 2/3 innings. He started the game against Licey on Oct. 23 and surrendered four runs and two hits in three innings. Mitchell walked five hitters in the game and struck out two. Opposing hitters are only hitting .188 against Mitchell, but the erratic control has really hurt him.

Wilfredo Perez, LHP – The 24-year-old left-hander has encountered mixed results in three games with the Estrellas. Perez had three strikeouts in two scoreless innings against the Gigantes on Oct. 17. He walked one and allowed a hit in 1/3 of an inning against Aguilas on Oct. 22. The roughest outing for Perez, however, occurred on Oct. 24 against Licey. He gave up two runs and one hit in 1/3 of an inning. Overall, Perez is 1-0 with a 6.75 ERA in 2 2/3 innings for the Estrellas.

Felix Romero, RHP – The 28-year-old relief pitcher didn’t pitch well in his first appearance against Escogido on Oct. 18, but he was more successful in his second game. Romero allowed one hit and had one strikeout in 1 1/3 innings against the Gigantes on Oct. 26. He is 0-1 with a 4.91 ERA for the Estrellas so far this season.

Luis Terrero, OF – Terrero is the starting center fielder for Aguilas this season. The 28-year-old outfielder is hitting .270 (10-for-37) with four RBIs in 10 games. He has hit successfully in his past six games. Terrero has two doubles and six runs scored, but he has struck out 11 times. He was 1-for-5 with a double and four strikeouts against the Estrellas on Oct. 22.

Venezuelan Winter League

Gerardo Casadiego, RHP – The 27-year-old relief pitcher has pitched well in two outings, but he’s also had two poor appearances for La Guaira. Casadiego tossed a scoreless inning against the Lara Cardenales on Oct. 17. He also didn’t allow any runs in an inning against the Magallanes on Oct. 24. In his worst performance so far this season, Casadiego gave up two runs and two hits in 2/3 of an inning against Caracas on Oct. 25. Overall, he has a 6.75 ERA and four strikeouts in four innings.

Victor Castillo, C – In his debut for La Guaira on Oct. 22, Castillo was 0-for-2 with a strikeout against Lara. He also walked once during the game. The 24-year-old catcher batted .231 with four home runs and 12 RBIs in 39 games for the Delmarva Shorebirds this season. He hit .294 with one home run and 27 RBIs in 81 games for Delmarva in 2007.

Cory Doyne, RHP – The 27-year-old relief pitcher has three saves in four appearances for La Guaira. Doyne has only allowed two hits in 4 1/3 scoreless innings so far this season. He earned his third straight save on Oct. 25 against Caracas. Doyne had two strikeouts, but he gave up two hits and a walk in 1 1/3 innings during the game. The 6-foot-2, 240-pound pitcher had a 3.43 ERA in 17 games while splitting time between the Gulf Coast League Orioles, Aberdeen IronBirds, Frederick Keys and Norfolk Tides in 2008.

Luis Hernandez, SS – Hernandez was the starting shortstop for the Orioles on Opening Day, but his season quickly went downhill from there. The 24-year-old infielder was demoted to Norfolk in June and he only batted .185 with 11 RBIs in 57 games for the Tides. Hernandez, however, is 6-for-12 with two RBIs in his first three games for La Guaira. He was 3-for-4 with a triple and a run scored against the Magallanes on Oct. 24.

Carlos Rojas, 2B/SS – The 24-year-old infielder has played sporadically for the Caribes so far this season. Rojas, who played second base for the Bowie Baysox in 2008, is 0-for-1 with a walk in four games. He walked against Margarita on Oct. 18 and popped out to end the game against Aragua on Oct. 24. Rojas batted .247 with two home runs and 38 RBIs in 120 games for Bowie this season.

Oscar Salazar, 1B/3B/LF – Salazar hit .284 with five home runs and 15 RBIs in 34 games for the Orioles this season. The 30-year-old utility player has continued that success for La Guaira in Venezuela. He has displayed versatility by playing first base, third base, left field and designated hitter in his first four games. Salazar was 4-for-5 with two RBIs in his first game against Lara on Oct. 22. He was 2-for-4 with a double and a home run against Caracas on Oct. 26. Overall, Salazar is 9-for-16 with four RBIs and five runs scored.

Steve Torrealba, C – The 30-year-old backup catcher is 0-for-7 in three games for the Caribes so far this season. Torrealba was 0-for-3 against Aragua on Oct. 25. He hit .283 with eight home runs, 26 RBIs and 16 runs scored in 37 games for the Baysox this season.

Mexican Pacific League

Jeff Nettles, SS/3B – Nettles is batting .229 with one home run and six RBIs in 14 games for the Mochis Caneros. The 30-year-old infielder was 2-for-4 with two RBIs against Hermosillo on Oct. 25. He also had two hits on the following day against the same team. Nettles is batting .375 (6-for-16) against left-handed pitchers, but he’s only hitting .156 (5-for-32) against right-handers.

Chris Roberson, OF – Roberson is currently third in the league in batting average (.400). The 29-year-old outfielder is 22-for-55 with six RBIs and 10 runs scored in 14 games for Hermosillo. He is second in stolen bases (six) and tied for fourth in doubles (five). Roberson is only 1-for-11 in his past three games, but he had five consecutive multi-hit games before this slump.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Through Sunday, the Surprise Rafters are 4-12 and in last place in the National Division of the Arizona Fall League. The Peoria Javelinas lead the division with a 9-7 record and the Phoenix Desert Dogs are 8-8. The Mesa Solar Sox and Peoria Saguaros are 11-5 and tied atop the American Division. The Scottsdale Scorpions are in last place at 5-11.

Surprise has lost five straight games, including a 28-1 setback against Mesa on Oct. 20. Left fielder Nolan Reimold hit a solo home run to give the Rafters a 1-0 lead in the top of the second inning, but they committed eight errors and allowed 24 hits. Luckily, none of the Orioles’ pitching prospects appeared in the game for the Rafters.

Here are updates on the Orioles' prospects through Sunday:

Blake Davis, SS – The 24-year-old shortstop hasn’t played since collecting his first hit in Arizona against Phoenix on Oct. 18. Davis is 1-for-13 with an RBI and two runs scored in three games for the Rafters. He batted .284 with four home runs and 53 RBIs in 132 games for the Bowie Baysox during the regular season.

Ryan Keefer, RHP – Keefer hasn’t pitched for Surprise since injuring his arm on Oct. 15 against Scottsdale. He surrendered a leadoff home run in the eighth inning to Scorpions third baseman Ryan Rohlinger before leaving the game. The 27-year-old right-hander was 2-4 with a 4.80 ERA in 39 games for the Baysox in 2008.

Brian Matusz, LHP – The 21-year-old left-hander pitched in the league’s third annual Rising Stars Showcase on Oct. 24. He entered the game with a runner on second base and one out in the seventh inning. Matusz walked one hitter and had a strikeout in the outing. The Orioles’ first-round draft pick is 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA in two starts for the Rafters. Matusz has nine strikeouts and he’s walked two hitters in seven innings in Arizona.

Bob McCrory, RHP – McCrory has started pitching again after experiencing discomfort in his right elbow earlier in the fall. The 26-year-old relief pitcher has struggled in three appearances for Surprise since returning from the injury. McCrory allowed two unearned runs and two hits in one inning against Mesa on Oct. 21. He surrendered a run, two hits and two walks in one inning on Oct. 23 against the Saguaros. McCrory also gave up two runs and three hits in an inning of work against Mesa on Oct. 25. The Orioles’ fourth-round pick in the 2003 draft has a 7.36 ERA in four games for Surprise. He has given up seven runs (three earned) in 3 2/3 innings.

Nolan Reimold, OF – It’s been difficult for Reimold to find some consistency in Arizona, but the 25-year-old outfielder has hit successfully and scored a run in each of his past four games. He hit his first home run in the blowout loss against Mesa on Oct. 20. Reimold connected for another solo shot on the following day. The Orioles’ second-round pick in the 2005 draft had a double against the Saguaros on Oct. 23. Reimold is hitting .167 (6-for-36) with two home runs and six RBIs in 10 games for Surprise. He has two doubles, two stolen bases and five runs scored.

Brandon Snyder, 1B – The 21-year-old first baseman is batting .375 (9-for-24) with four doubles, one home run and four RBIs in seven games. Snyder was 2-for-5 with two doubles and two RBIs against Phoenix on Oct. 18, but he had a rough day against the Saguaros on Oct. 23. He was 0-for-3 with a fielding error in the game. The Orioles’ first-round draft pick in 2005 has committed three errors for Surprise.

Chad Thall, LHP – With Matusz scheduled to pitch in the Rising Stars Showcase, Thall stepped into his spot in the rotation and started for Surprise on Oct. 23. The 23-year-old left-hander suffered the loss after giving up two runs and three hits in two innings. He is 0-1 with a 7.56 ERA in five games for the Rafters. The 6-foot-4, 220-pound pitcher has nine strikeouts and he’s walked two hitters in 8 1/3 innings.

Matt Wieters, C – Wieters joined Matusz to represent the National Division during the Rising Stars Showcase. As I mentioned in a previous post, the 22-year-old catcher threw out two base runners in the game. He was 0-for-1 with a walk and a strikeout. Wieters is batting .333 with five RBIs and eight runs scored in 10 games for Surprise, but he’s been slumping recently. In his past three games, the Orioles’ first-round draft pick in 2007 is 1-for-11 with three strikeouts.

If you’re interested, here are some archived photos of Matusz and Wieters, as well as some of the Orioles’ previous first-round draft picks.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Orioles prospects Matt Wieters and Brian Matusz took part in the Arizona Fall League's third annual Rising Stars Showcase on Friday night. Their team, the National Rising Stars, scored six runs in the final two innings to edge the American Rising Stars, 7-6.

Wieters was the starting catcher and batted third for the National stars. While he had one of the best offensive seasons in the minor leagues in 2008, the Orioles' 2007 first-round draft pick showed off his defensive skills Friday night.

The 22-year-old catcher threw out two base runners during the game. In the first inning, he gunned down Daniel Murphy, who played in 49 games for the New York Mets in 2008. Wieters picked off shortstop Emmanuel Burriss at first base in the fifth. Burriss had 13 stolen bases in 95 games with the San Francisco Giants this season.

Offensively, Wieters had an uneventful night with a strikeout in the first inning and a walk in the fourth. He is batting .333 (11-for-33) with five RBIs and eight runs scored in 10 games in Arizona.

Matusz, who was selected by the Orioles in the first round of this year's draft, entered the game with a runner on second base and one out in the seventh inning. He retired Brian Bogusevic with a groundout and then walked Josh Thole to put runners on the corners. The 21-year-old left-hander struck out Logan Morrison to end the inning. Matusz threw 13 pitches (seven strikes) to get two outs before his night was finished. He is 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA and nine strikeouts in seven innings in the AFL.

The teams were selected by a vote of major league scouting and farm directors. Wieters and Matusz were joined on the National team by other players from the Peoria Javelinas, Phoenix Desert Dogs and Surprise Rafters. The American team was comprised of players from the Mesa Solar Sox, Peoria Saguaros and Scottsdale Scorpions.

If you’re interested, here are some archived photos of Matusz and Wieters, as well as some of the Orioles’ previous first-round draft picks.

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

Through Wednesday, the West Oahu CaneFires are 10-10 and 2 1/2 games ahead of the North Shore Honu in the West Division. The Honolulu Sharks lead the East Division with a 13-6 record and Waikiki is 9-11.

I’ll be providing statistics from the players in the Orioles’ minor league system every Thursday for the rest of the season, so make sure to check O’s on Deck for future information. Please note that I’m not offering any type of analysis on the prospect status of these players. These reports are designed to give fans an idea of how the competitors in the system are performing.

Here is an update, through Wednesday’s games, on the players in the organization who are with West Oahu in Hawaii Winter Baseball:

Tim Bascom, RHP – The 23-year-old right-hander struggled in Wednesday’s start against Waikiki. Bascom picked up his second loss of the winter after giving up seven runs (five earned) and six hits in 4 1/3 innings. He walked two hitters and had one strikeout in the game. The Orioles’ fourth-round pick in the 2007 draft is 1-2 with a 6.48 ERA in five starts for West Oahu. He has 12 strikeouts and seven walks in 16 2/3 innings in Hawaii. If you’re looking for good news, Bascom has given up only one home run after allowing 15 in 95 innings for Frederick during the 2008 season.

Wally Crancer, C/1B/DH – Crancer has hit successfully in seven of his past eight games for West Oahu. The 24-year-old utility player had his first home run of the season against North Shore on Oct. 19. He was 2-for-4 with a walk and two runs scored against Waikiki during Wednesday’s game. After a slump to start the season, Crancer is now hitting .220 with one home run and five RBIs in 12 games.

Cliff Flagello, RHP – The 23-year-old relief pitcher tossed seven innings before finally allowing an earned run in Hawaii. Flagello gave up four runs (one earned) and three hits in one inning against North Shore on Oct. 19. He walked two hitters and had two strikeouts in the game. Flagello, who was selected by the Orioles in the 25th round of the 2007 draft, is 1-0 with a 1.13 ERA and two saves in Hawaii. He has 10 strikeouts and four walks in eight innings for West Oahu.

Sean Gleason, RHP – Gleason gave up two runs and two hits in 1 2/3 innings against Waikiki during Wednesday’s game. The 23-year-old right-hander was making his first appearance as a reliever after four starts for West Oahu. Gleason allowed three runs and two hits in five innings during his last start against North Shore on Oct. 17. He walked four hitters and had two strikeouts in the game. Gleason leads the team with 19 2/3 innings, but he is 1-2 with a 7.32 ERA.

Tyler Henson, 3B – Henson has cooled off considerably after a quick start in Hawaii, but the 20-year-old third baseman still leads the league in runs scored (19) and walks (18). Henson is also tied for the most doubles in Hawaii with nine, but he is 1-for-14 with 10 strikeouts in his past three games. The Orioles’ fifth-round pick in the 2006 draft is batting .243 with five RBIs and 23 strikeouts in 20 games for the CaneFires.

Brian Parker, RHP – Parker hasn’t given up any runs in his past three appearances in Hawaii. The 23-year-old reliever pitched 1 1/3 scoreless innings against Honolulu on Oct. 16. He had two strikeouts and walked two hitters in the game. Parker gave up one hit and walked one during a scoreless inning against North Shore on Oct. 19. The 6-foot-4, 195-pound right-hander has a 3.38 ERA in 10 2/3 innings for the CaneFires.

Chris Salberg, LHP – Salberg has made eight appearances for the CaneFires. The 24-year-old left-hander is 1-0 with a 3.86 ERA in 14 innings. He started for the first time this winter on Oct. 19 against North Shore and earned the victory. Salberg gave up one run and two hits in 4 1/3 innings in the game. The 6-foot-1, 185-pound pitcher had two strikeouts and walked one in 1 2/3 innings against Honolulu on Oct. 16.

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

Caribbean baseball is comprised of four different leagues – the Dominican Winter League, Mexican Pacific League, Puerto Rican Winter League and Venezuelan Winter League. Three of the four leagues have already started playing this year. The Puerto Rican Winter League is scheduled to begin on Nov. 6.

The 2009 Caribbean Series will take place in Mexicali, Mexico. The winner of each league will represent its respective country and each team will play six games. The team with the best record is declared the champion. Last year, the Licey Tigres from the Dominican Winter League captured the crown.

There are several players from the Orioles’ system who are participating in the Caribbean winter leagues. Several others, including third baseman Melvin Mora and catcher Ramon Hernandez, are listed on rosters, but they haven’t played yet.

Let me preface this entry by saying that I’ve done my best to compile a list of the different players who are currently in the Orioles’ system, but I may have missed some. Also, there might be some players who are included in the list that are free agents and may not return to the organization in 2009. It’s difficult to obtain a lot of information about the Caribbean leagues, so feel free to contact me if you think someone was inadvertently omitted and I’ll include them next week.

Look for reports from the Caribbean leagues to appear on O’s on Deck every Wednesday for the remainder of the season. Also, I forgot to mention on this week’s entry about the Arizona Fall League, but you can expect those posts every Monday.

Here are updates through Monday’s games on the players in the Orioles’ system:

Dominican Winter League

Fredy Deza, RHP – The 25-year-old relief pitcher allowed three runs and two hits in 1 1/3 innings during his only appearance of the season so far for the Azucareros. Deza also walked two hitters during the game against Estrellas on Oct. 19. He was 2-3 with a 3.32 ERA in 40 2/3 innings while splitting time between the Aberdeen IronBirds, Frederick Keys and Norfolk Tides this season.

Andy Mitchell, RHP – Mitchell couldn’t find the strike zone in his first appearance of the season for Aguilas. The 30-year-old pitcher walked four batters and gave up three runs in 1 1/3 innings against the Gigantes on Oct. 19. He was 12-8 with a 4.29 ERA in 32 games (21 starts) for the Tides in 2008.

Wilfredo Perez, LHP – The 24-year-old left-hander earned the victory after pitching two scoreless innings in his debut for the Estrellas on Oct. 17. Perez had three strikeouts, walked one and allowed one hit during the game against the Gigantes. He was 2-4 with a 2.71 ERA in 42 games split between Frederick and the Bowie Baysox in 2008.

Felix Romero, RHP – The 28-year-old relief pitcher gave up two runs and two hits in 2 1/3 innings for the Estrellas against Escogido on Oct. 18. Romero walked four hitters and had two strikeouts in the game. He had 100 strikeouts and only walked 19 hitters in 77 innings for the Baysox during the 2008 season.

Luis Terrero, OF – Terrero is 4-for-11 (.364) with an RBI and three runs scored in three games for the Aguilas this season. The 28-year-old outfielder was 2-for-4 with a double and a triple against Escogido on Oct. 17. He also had two hits against the Gigantes on Oct. 19. Terrero hit .274 with 31 doubles, 13 home runs and 88 RBIs in 129 games for Norfolk this season.

Venezuelan Winter League

Gerardo Casadiego, RHP – The 27-year-old relief pitcher has given up one run and one hit in 2 1/3 innings for La Guaira so far this season. Casadiego had one strikeout, but allowed one run in 1 1/3 innings against Magallanes on Oct. 14. He bounced back with a perfect inning against the Lara Cardenales on Oct. 17. Casadiego was 5-6 with a 3.18 ERA in 55 appearances for the Baysox in 2008.

Cory Doyne, RHP – Doyne has been nearly flawless in two appearances for the Tiburones. The 27-year-old relief pitcher had one strikeout and walked one in one inning against Margarita on Oct. 16. He picked up his first save of the season on Oct. 17 after pitching a scoreless inning against Lara. The 6-foot-2, 240-pound pitcher was recovering from rotator cuff surgery in 2008. He had a 3.43 ERA in 17 games while splitting time between the Gulf Coast League Orioles, Aberdeen, Frederick and Norfolk.

Carlos Rojas, 2B/SS – The 24-year-old infielder has only appeared briefly in three games for the Caribes. Rojas, who played second base for the Baysox during the 2008 season, has entered twice as a defensive replacement at shortstop and once as a pinch hitter. He walked in his only official plate appearance against Margarita on Oct. 18. Rojas batted .247 with two home runs and 38 RBIs in 120 games for Bowie this season.

Steve Torrealba, C – The 30-year-old backup catcher is 0-for-4 in two games for the Caribes so far this season. Torrealba was 0-for-3 with a strikeout in his only start on Oct. 17 against Margarita. He hit .283 with eight home runs, 26 RBIs and 16 runs scored in 37 games for the Baysox this season.

Mexican Pacific League

Jeff Nettles, 3B – The 30-year-old third baseman, who played for Bowie this season, is a member of the Mochis Caneros this winter. In eight games, Nettles is only hitting .185 (5-for-27) with one home run. He was 2-for-3 against the Mazatlan Venados on Oct. 18 and he hit a solo home run against the Mexicali Aguilas on Oct. 14. Nettles batted .253 with 24 home runs and 78 RBIs in 134 games for the Baysox in 2008.

Chris Roberson, OF – Roberson is off to a quick start for the Hermosillo Naranjeros so far this season. The 29-year-old outfielder is tied for first in runs scored (eight), second in doubles (five) and sixth in total bases (19). He is also second in batting average (.438) and stolen bases (four). Roberson has at least two hits in five of the eight games in which he’s played. In his past three games, Roberson is 8-for-15 with four doubles, four runs scored, three stolen bases and three RBIs.

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

Through Sunday, the Surprise Rafters are 4-7 and in last place in the National Division of the Arizona Fall League. The Peoria Javelinas lead the division with a 6-5 record and the Phoenix Desert Dogs are 5-6. The Peoria Saguaros are 8-3 and leading the American Division by two games over the Mesa Solar Sox. The Scottsdale Scorpions are in last place with a 4-7 record.

Here are updates on the Orioles' prospects through Sunday:

Blake Davis, SS – After going 0-for-9 in his first two games in Arizona, Davis finally collected his first hit against Phoenix on Oct. 18. As the leadoff hitter for Surprise, the 24-year-old shortstop was 1-for-4 with an RBI and two runs scored in the game.

Ryan Keefer, RHP – The 27-year-old right-hander finally made his debut for Surprise on Oct. 15 against Scottsdale, but he’d probably like to forget it. Keefer surrendered a leadoff home run in the eighth inning to Scorpions third baseman Ryan Rohlinger and then he left the game with an apparent arm injury. It’s not believed to be serious, but I’ll let you know if I receive any updates about the relief pitcher.

Brian Matusz, LHP – There’s good news and bad news to take from the 21-year-old left-hander’s second start on Oct. 17 against Phoenix. The bad news is that Matusz wasn’t unhittable like in the first start against Mesa on Oct. 11. He gave up three runs (one earned) and three hits in four innings. What is the good news? Matusz had eight strikeouts and only walked one hitter in the game. The Orioles’ first-round draft pick is 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA and nine strikeouts in seven innings in Arizona.

Bob McCrory, RHP – The 26-year-old relief pitcher hasn’t pitched in Arizona since allowing two unearned runs in 2/3 of an inning against Scottsdale on Oct. 9. McCrory hit a batter, walked one and had one strikeout in the game. He has been diagnosed with a sore elbow, so the injury will be something to monitor during the offseason.

Nolan Reimold, OF – Reimold is continuing to struggle for Surprise so far this season. The 25-year-old outfielder is 3-for-25 (.120) with four RBIs and two runs scored in seven games. He was 1-for-5 with a double and two RBIs against the Saguaros on Oct. 13. Reimold batted .245 in 29 games last season in Arizona. He led the league with 23 RBIs and finished tied for first in home runs (six), but he was also tied for the most strikeouts (33).

Brandon Snyder, 1B – Snyder became the first Orioles prospect to hit a home run in Arizona on Oct. 13 against the Saguaros. The 21-year-old first baseman connected for a solo home run off Saguaros left-hander Cory VanAllen in the second inning. Snyder has played in five games for Surprise and he’s had at least two hits in three of those games. The former first-round draft pick is 8-for-18 (.444) with a home run and four RBIs in Arizona. He also has four doubles and four runs scored.

Chad Thall, LHP – This week, the 23-year-old left-hander made two appearances for Surprise. Thall gave up one run and four hits in 1 2/3 innings against the Saguaros on Oct. 14. He had two strikeouts and walked one in the game. Thall pitched 2 2/3 scoreless innings on Oct. 18 against Phoenix. He had four strikeouts and didn’t allow any base runners in the outing. The 6-foot-4, 220-pound reliever has a 7.11 ERA in 6 1/3 innings in Arizona.

Matt Wieters, C – Wieters is hitting .385 (10-for-26) with five RBIs and eight runs scored in eight games for Surprise. The 22-year-old catcher, however, is only 2-for-10 in his past three games. Wieters was 1-for-3 with two RBIs and two runs scored against the Saguaros on Oct. 14. The former first-round pick – that seems like a common theme for the O’s prospects in Arizona this season, doesn’t it? – was 2-for-4 with an RBI against Phoenix on Oct. 17.

If you’re interested, here are some archived photos of Matusz and Wieters, as well as some of the Orioles’ previous first-round draft picks.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Through Wednesday, the West Oahu CaneFires – the team with representatives from the Orioles’ minor league system in Hawaii Winter Baseball – were 7-7 and two games ahead of the North Shore Honu in the West Division. The Honolulu Sharks were on top of the East Division with a 10-4 record and the Waikiki BeachBoys were 6-8.

I’ll be providing information on the prospects in Hawaii on Thursdays for the rest of the season, so make sure you keep checking O’s on Deck for future news.

Here is an update on the players in the organization through Wednesday’s games:

Tim Bascom, RHP – After a rocky beginning in Hawaii, Bascom has excelled in his past two starts. On Wednesday, the 23-year-old right-hander tossed five perfect innings against Honolulu. He threw 51 pitches (39 strikes) and picked up his first victory while retiring all 15 hitters that he faced. Bascom had six strikeouts and only allowed four hits in four scoreless innings in his previous start against North Shore on Oct. 9. The Orioles’ fourth-round draft pick in the 2007 draft struggled in his start on Oct. 3, allowing eight runs (seven earned) and four hits in 1 1/3 innings against Honolulu. Bascom is 1-1 with a 5.11 ERA in four starts so far this season for West Oahu.

Wally Crancer, C/1B/DH – Crancer has continued to struggle for West Oahu early in the winter season, but he was 1-for-2 with a triple and three RBIs in Wednesday’s game against Honolulu. The 24-year-old utility player is hitting .154 (4-for-26) with four RBIs and three runs scored in eight games. Crancer was 0-for-3 with two strikeouts and a walk on Oct. 11 against Waikiki. He has struck out eight total times in Hawaii.

Cliff Flagello, RHP – Flagello has not allowed an earned run in four appearances for West Oahu. The 23-year-old relief pitcher has six strikeouts and two walks in six innings this season. Flagello pitched two scoreless innings against Waikiki on Oct. 12. The Orioles’ 25th-round draft pick in the 2007 draft is 1-0 with a save in Hawaii.

Sean Gleason, RHP – The 23-year-old starting pitcher had back-to-back rough outings after allowing no runs and only two hits in four innings during his first start in Hawaii on Sept. 30 against Waikiki. Gleason suffered the loss against Honolulu on Oct. 5 after giving up four runs and four hits in four innings. He picked up his second loss of the season after surrendering seven earned runs and seven hits in five innings against Waikiki on Oct. 11. Gleason has walked six hitters and only struck out four in 13 innings in Hawaii. He is 1-2 with a 7.62 ERA.

Tyler Henson, 3B – The 20-year-old third baseman continues to lead the league in runs scored (16) and walks (16). Henson is hitting .326 with three RBIs in 14 games for West Oahu. He is also tied for first in the league in doubles (eight) and third in hits (15). The Orioles’ fifth-round pick in the 2006 draft has hit successfully in his past five games and he is 5-for-16 with five walks during that span.

Brian Parker, RHP – The 23-year-old relief pitcher has a 4.32 ERA in four games for West Oahu. He has struck out five hitters and walked three in 8 1/3 innings. In his last appearance, Parker pitched a scoreless inning against Waikiki on Oct. 12. The Orioles’ 19th-round selection in the 2007 draft gave up one earned run and three hits in 2 2/3 innings against North Shore on Oct. 7.

Chris Salberg, LHP – The 24-year-old left-hander has made six appearances as a reliever for West Oahu so far this season. Salberg has surrendered eight runs (five earned) and nine hits in 8 1/3 innings, which translates to a 5.40 ERA. He gave up four runs (three earned) and four hits in 3 2/3 innings against North Shore on Oct. 8. Salberg allowed two unearned runs and two hits in one inning against Waikiki on Oct. 11.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

As many fans know, the Orioles sent several prospects to participate in the Arizona Fall League this season. The league began play last Tuesday, so it’s a good time to take a look at how the players from the Orioles’ minor league system are performing.

The league has two divisions – American and National – with three teams in each division. The Mesa Solar Sox, Peoria Saguaros and Scottsdale Scorpions play in the American Division, while the Peoria Javelinas, Phoenix Desert Dogs and Surprise Rafters compete in the National Division.

The Orioles sent eight representatives to play in Arizona in 2008. Catcher Matt Wieters, infielders Blake Davis and Brandon Snyder, outfielder Nolan Reimold and pitchers Ryan Keefer, Brian Matusz, Bob McCrory and Chad Thall are all playing for Surprise.

Through Sunday, Surprise and Phoenix are both 2-3 and one game behind the Javelinas in the National Division. The Saguaros are 5-0 and leading the American Division, while Mesa is 2-3 and Scottsdale is 1-4.

Here are updates on the Orioles' prospects through Sunday:

Blake Davis, SS – Davis is still searching for his first hit in Arizona. The 24-year-old shortstop is 0-for-9 in two games so far with the Rafters. Davis, who was selected by the Orioles in the fourth round of the 2006 draft, hit .284 with 22 doubles, 57 runs scored and 53 RBIs in 132 games for the Bowie Baysox in 2008.

Ryan Keefer, RHP – The 27-year-old reliever hasn’t pitched for Surprise yet. I’m not sure if there’s something wrong with Keefer, but I’ll try to find out more information and pass it along as soon as possible. Keefer, who was the Orioles’ 13th-round draft pick in 2000, was 2-4 with a 4.80 ERA in 65 2/3 innings for Bowie this season.

Brian Matusz, LHP – Matusz pitched well in his professional debut on Saturday. The 21-year-old left-hander picked up the victory after throwing three scoreless innings against Mesa. Matusz retired the first seven hitters of the game before walking Nate Spears with one out in the third inning. Does that name sound familiar to anyone? You’re a true baseball fan – or pretty good at using search engines – if you know how Spears is connected to the Orioles. Anyway, Matusz is scheduled to pitch again on Friday. It will be interesting to see how he performs for the rest of the season.

Bob McCrory, RHP – The 26-year-old reliever gave up two unearned runs last Thursday against Scottsdale in 2/3 of an inning. McCrory hit a batter, walked one and had one strikeout in the game. He was 2-3 with a 3.80 ERA in 45 innings for Norfolk this season. The numbers in the major leagues were a lot worse for the Orioles’ fourth-round pick in the 2003 draft. He gave up 12 runs (11 earned) in 6 1/3 innings with the Orioles in 2008. It’s important that McCrory works on his command in the fall league if he plans on helping the Orioles next season.

Nolan Reimold, OF – Reimold, who celebrated his 25th birthday yesterday, is off to a slow start in the fall league. The outfielder is 1-for-10 with two strikeouts in three games for Surprise, but he had a game-tying RBI single in the bottom of the ninth inning against Scottsdale on Oct. 9. Reimold is playing in Arizona for the third consecutive year. He had six home runs and 23 RBIs in the league last season.

Brandon Snyder, 1B – Snyder is 4-for-7 in two games for Surprise. The 21-year-old first baseman was 3-for-4 with two doubles, a run scored and an RBI against the Javelinas on Oct. 8. He was 1-for-3 with a run scored as the designated hitter last Friday against Mesa. Snyder, who was selected by the Orioles in the first round of the 2005 draft, hit .315 with 13 home runs and 80 RBIs in 116 games for the Frederick Keys in 2008.

Chad Thall, LHP – The 23-year-old left-hander allowed three runs and seven hits in one inning against the Javelinas on Oct. 7. Thall rebounded in his second appearance on Oct. 10 against Mesa with two strikeouts, but he still allowed one run and two hits in one inning during that game. In 45 games split between Frederick and Bowie in 2008, Thall was 1-0 with a 3.02 ERA and nine saves.

Matt Wieters, C – The Orioles’ first-round pick in last year’s draft is second in the fall league in batting average (.538) through the first week. Wieters is 7-for-13 with two doubles, one triple and five runs scored for Surprise. The 22-year-old catcher was 4-for-4 against Scottsdale on Oct. 9 and he has at least one hit in all four games that he’s played. Wieters hasn’t hit a home run yet, but there’s still plenty of time for the top prospect to display his power before the league ends.

If you’re interested, here are some archived photos of Matusz and Wieters, as well as some of the Orioles’ previous first-round draft picks.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Starting pitcher Brian Matusz, who the Orioles selected with the fourth overall pick in this year's draft, made his debut in the Arizona Fall League today.

The 21-year-old left-hander didn't allow any hits in three scoreless innings for the Surprise Rafters in their game against the Mesa Solar Sox. Matusz walked one and had one strikeout. He threw 45 pitches (26 strikes) in the outing.

Look through some archived photos of Matusz here.

Also, check out the Q&A that I conducted with him in September.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (18)
Categories: Winter leagues
        

Throughout the offseason, I’ll provide updates on how the prospects from the Orioles’ minor league system are performing in the different winter leagues. The best way to do this, in my opinion, is to provide a weekly update on each league.

Hawaii Winter Baseball started on Sept. 27, so they’ve played enough games for me to provide information about the players from the organization.

There are four teams in Hawaii Winter Baseball – Honolulu Sharks, North Shore Honu, Waikiki BeachBoys and West Oahu CaneFires – which are comprised of players from the minor leagues, as well as Japan Professional Baseball and the Korea Baseball Organization. Each team in Hawaii Winter Baseball has 28 total players.

The Orioles sent seven representatives to West Oahu for this season. All of the team’s prospects are from the Delmarva Shorebirds except starting pitcher Tim Bascom, who played for the Frederick Keys in 2008. The other players from the organization are catcher Wally Crancer, infielder Tyler Henson and pitchers Cliff Flagello, Sean Gleason, Brian Parker and Chris Salberg.

Through Tuesday, West Oahu was 6-3 and 3 1/2 games ahead of North Shore in the West Division. Honolulu was on top of the East Division with a 6-3 record and Waikiki was 4-6.

Here is an update on the players in the Orioles’ minor league system through Tuesday’s games:

Tim Bascom, RHP – The 23-year-old starting pitcher was 6-5 with a 5.78 ERA in 19 starts for Frederick this season, so he could benefit from some extra work in Hawaii. In his first start on Sept. 27 against North Shore, Bascom allowed two unearned runs and three hits in two innings with one walk and one strikeout. During his second start of the season on Oct. 3 against Honolulu, things got ugly for the Orioles’ fourth-round pick in the 2007 draft. He surrendered eight runs (seven earned) and four hits in 1 1/3 innings.

Wally Crancer, C/1B/DH – Crancer has seen action as a catcher, first baseman and designated hitter for West Oahu. The 24-year-old utility player batted .287 with six home runs and 39 RBIs in 83 games for Delmarva this season. The Orioles’ 12th-round selection in the 2007 draft has been struggling, however, for West Oahu. In his first five games, Crancer was 2-for-17 with one run scored and one RBI.

Cliff Flagello, RHP – After pitching well for the Shorebirds in 2008, the 23-year-old relief pitcher has continued his success with West Oahu. Flagello was 5-3 with a 2.29 ERA and three saves in 39 games for Delmarva this season. The Orioles’ 25th-round draft pick in the 2007 draft is 1-0 with a save and he has allowed one unearned run and four hits in four innings for the CaneFires.

Sean Gleason, RHP – The 23-year-old starting pitcher had a breakout season for Delmarva this year. After starting the season in the bullpen, Gleason became the team’s ace and was 12-2 with a 2.63 ERA in 150 2/3 innings with the Shorebirds. The Orioles’ 20th-round selection in the 2007 draft has had mixed results in two starts for West Oahu. In his first start on Sept. 30 against Waikiki, Gleason earned the victory after allowing no runs and only two hits in four innings. He suffered the loss against Honolulu on Oct. 5 after giving up four runs and four hits in four innings.

Tyler Henson, 3B – After batting .265 with 11 home runs and 62 RBIs in 127 games for Delmarva, the 20-year-old third baseman is off to a quick start with the CaneFires. Henson is 10-for-30 (.333) with six doubles, one triple and three RBIs in nine games for West Oahu. He leads the league in runs scored (14), but it’s more impressive that the Orioles’ fifth-round pick in the 2006 draft is ranked first in Hawaii Winter Baseball with 11 walks. Henson only walked 25 times in 127 games for the Shorebirds and he’s already almost halfway to that total.

Brian Parker, RHP – The 23-year-old relief pitcher was 7-5 with a 3.65 ERA in 35 games for Delmarva in 2008. Parker currently has a 4.91 ERA in three games for West Oahu. He pitched two scoreless innings in his first game against North Shore on Sept. 28, but the Orioles’ 19th-round selection in the 2007 draft surrendered three runs and three hits in 2 2/3 innings against Waikiki on Oct. 2. He also gave up one earned run and three hits in 2 2/3 innings against North Shore on Oct. 7.

Chris Salberg, LHP – The 24-year-old left-hander was a starting pitcher while splitting time between the Aberdeen IronBirds and Delmarva this season, but he’s been used exclusively as a reliever for West Oahu. Salberg hasn’t allowed any runs in three of his four outings with the CaneFires, but he gave up two runs and two hits in two innings against Waikiki on Oct. 2.

Posted by Dean Jones Jr. at 4:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Winter leagues