I do plan on catching the Danville Braves this weekend as they head to Bluefield to play the Orioles. I hope to have updates (and maybe some photos) to share when I return.
]]>Richmond Braves outfielder Esix Snead was suspended for 10 games today by the International League for his role in this week's brawl with the Syracuse Sky Chiefs. R-Braves manager Pat Kelly was also suspended for one game by the IL. 20 other R-Braves were fined for their roles in the melee. Surprisingly, James Jurries was not suspended.
]]>Off Day
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Mississippi Braves (33-32, 3.5 GB)
Mississippi 0, Chattanooga 9 (Box Score)
Starter Chuck James was pulled after one inning last night. This was due to being "on call" for a promote to Atlanta. It appears that he will likely be the starter on Saturday, replacing the injured Tim Hudson.
Matt Coenen (2-4) followed James and allowed seven runs (five earned) in 3.2 innings to take the loss. Paul Bush allowed the other two runs. Gregor Blanco was 2-for-4 with a double.
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Myrtle Beach Pelicans (31-35, 7.0 GB)|
Myrtle Beach 7, Salem 0 (Box Score)
Chris Waters (1-0) and Jason Richardson combined on a two-hit shutout of the Avalanche. Waters allowed both hits in seven innings, walking three and striking out seven. Richardson finished with two scoreless innings. Josh Burrus was 3-for-3 with a HR, 2 RBIs, and two walks. Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Carlos Guzman also had three hit nights.
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Rome Braves (37-27, 3.5 GB)
OFF DAY
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Notes
The speculation is that Esix Snead will be suspended possibly for nine games. Given that he is not a prospect, I wouldn't be surprised to hear that his days as an R-Brave are limited (or at least on very thin ice).
RHP Ken Ray has had his contract purchased by the Braves. He will report to Richmond.
IF Josh Arteaga has been signed by the Braves (Link). He was formerly with the Cubs system. Career Stats
OF Mike Rosamond has been promoted to Richmond again.
IF Scott Schade has been placed on the DL at MB. His roster spot was taken by Mark Jurich.
RHP Paul Bacot is reporting to Rome from EST. 5th Rounder RHP Will Startup also reports to Rome.
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Draft Signings (Link)
According to Baseball America, the Braves have now signed the following:
1. RHP Joey Devine
1s. LHP Beau Jones
2. SS Yunel Escobar
2. RHP Jeff Lyman
3. CF Jordan Schafer
5. LHP Will Startup
7. 2B Brandon Monk
8. RHP Kyle Cofield
9. C Steven Garcia
11. RHP Michael Nix
12. RHP Rudolph Quinonez
13. CF Quentin Davis
37. RHP David Williams
It still appears that Devine will report to MB in a couple weeks. Will Startup has been assigned to Rome.
Richmond 2, Syracuse 13 (Box Score)
Does this come as a surprise anymore? Richmond took another one off the chin and continues to sink further and further in the standings. The only consolation is that the Charlotte Knights are even worse off than they are.
Anyways, back to the game, Trey Hodges (0-3) was drilled once again. Hodges allowed eight runs (six earned, 6.89 ERA) in two innings. This is obviously not the Hodges of two years ago and you have to wonder how many more starts he will get with Richmond. Billy McCarthy was 3-for-4 and James Jurries/Scott Barnes were each 2-for-4.
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Mississippi Braves (33-31, 2.5 GB)
Mississippi 3, Chattanooga 2 (Box Score)
Anthony Lerew (6-2) allowed two runs in six innings to pick up another win. Lerew walked two and struck out six. Iker Franco's 3-run home run was all that this team needed. One note for the "stat-conscious" fans out there, Jeff Francoeur had two walks yesterday.
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Myrtle Beach Pelicans (30-35, 7.0 GB)
Myrtle Beach 5, Salem 8 (Box Score)
The Pelicans allowed eight unanswered runs to the Avalanche and fell after gaining the five run lead in the fourth. Bryan Digby (1-4) allowed three runs and took the loss. Kelvin Villa had a better outing at MB. Villa allowed three runs (two earned) in 6.2 innings. Jamie Trejo hit a two-run HR and Matt Esquivel/Ben Thomas each had two hits.
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Rome Braves (37-27, 3.5 GB)
Rome 5, Hickory 3 (Box Score
Matt Harrison (6-3) had another good outing, allowing three runs in seven innings, earning the victory. Mark Jurich was 1-for-4 with a two-run home run. Ivan Terrazas and J.C. Holt each drove in a run.
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Notes:
Esix Snead has been suspended indefinetly pending review by the International League involving the bench clearing brawl from Tuesday. James Jurries might also serve a suspension as well.
Paul Bush has been promoted to Mississippi from Myrtle Beach. Dan Smith replaced him at the Beach.
Also just announced, Mark Jurich has been moved up to Myrtle Beach. Juan Alvarez has been outrighted to the Mexican Leagues, again. IF Bo Brown moves to Rome.
The Rosters page has been updated to reflect these changes.
]]>Richmond 6, Syracuse 7 (Box Score)
The R-Braves 2005 season keeps getting uglier by the second. The big story out of last night's game was the bench clearing brawl and ejections of Esix Snead and James Jurries. To get more on this brawl, read the recap from The Richmond Times Dispatch.
As for the game, they lost again. Sam McConnell's (3-7) season has not been a pretty one. McConnell gave up six runs (five earned) in 4.2 innings. Brayan Pena was 2-for-5 with two doubles in his return to The Diamond. Pena is currently batting .417 in AAA.
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Mississippi Braves (32-31, 2.5 GB)
Mississippi 4, Chattanooga 6 (Box Score)
Roman Colon made his first appearance in Mississippi to mixed results. Colon gave up a run in 2.2 innings, walking two, and striking out four. Matt Wright (5-6) followed Colon and gave up the final five runs to take the loss. Gregor Blanco and Iker Franco each had two hits.
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Myrtle Beach Pelicans (30-34, 7.0 GB)
Myrtle Beach 7, Salem 6 (Box Score)
Willie James drove in the game winning run with an RBI single in the bottom of the 11th to help the Pelicans prevail over the Avalanche. Ralph Roberts (3-3) earned the win, despite blowing the save in the ninth. Josh Burrus was 3-for-4 with a HR (8) and three RBIs. Jarrod Saltalamacchia was 2-for-5 with two doubles.
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Rome Braves (36-27, 4.5 GB)
Rome 8, Hickory 4 (Box Score)
James Parr (6-3) pitched in relief and has extended his no hit streak to at least 11 straight innings. Clint Sammons was 2-for-4 and hit a pivotal 2-run home run in the six-run eighth inning. Mark Jurich was 1-for-4 with a triple and three RBIs.
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Transactions:
C Brayan Pena returned to Richmond from Atlanta
OF Mike Rosamond returned to Mississippi from Richmond
RHP Hector Almonte was released from Richmond
RHP Jason Childers will be coming off the DL today for Richmond
RHP Roman Colon was assigned to Mississippi from Atlanta
RHPs Blaine Boyer and Jorge Vasquez joined the A-Braves this weekend
RHP Dan Smith has been promoted to Myrtle Beach from Rome
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All Stars
C Clint Sammons, RHP Luis Atilano, and IF Mike Rozema will represent the Rome Braves in the Sally League All Star game this year.
6/9: Richmond 1, Rochester 6 (Box Score)
Trey Hodges (0-2) allowed four runs in 4.1 innings, taking the loss in this 6-1 defeat by the Red Wings. The offensive impact was minimal, once again, as the decimated roster could only get one run on five hits. Scott Barnes had a 2-for-2 night with 2 walks.
6/10: Richmond 3, Rochester 1 (Box Score)
The R-Braves scored three quick runs and had good pitching by Seth Greisinger (3-4) and Macay McBride (SV, 2) to earn the victory on Friday. Greisinger allowed no runs on four hits in six innings. He walked none and struck out three. James Jurries' first inning two-run home run (9) was all the Braves needed in this one.
6/11: Richmond 3, Syracuse 4 (Box Score)
The R-Braves were looking for back-to-back wins, but the bullpen blew this one late (allowing all four runs in the eighth and ninth innings). Chris Mears (3-3) allowed the winning run in the top of the ninth. This bullpen implosion blew a great start by starter Zach Miner, who threw six scoreless innings. He allowed four hits, one walk, and struck out six. The offense had ten hits, but all were singles. Esix Snead, James Jurries, and Billy McCarthy had two hits a-piece.
6/12: Richmond 6, Syracuse 10 (Box Score)
The R-Braves and Sky Chiefs battled all night long, but the Chiefs ended up with the knockout blow (with three runs in the ninth) and the victory. Jeremy Ward (2-3) was credited with the loss coming out of the 'pen. Scott Pratt was 2-for-5 with a double and a triple. Scott Barnes and Esix Snead each had two hits.
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Mississippi Braves (32-30, 3.0 GB)
6/9: Mississippi 4, West Tennessee 9 (Box Score)
The MissBraves fought hard to overcome an early deficit, but the DiamondJaxx were just a little too much for them in this one. Starter Matt Coenen (2-3) took the loss, allowing six runs in 4.1 innings. Casey DeHart allowed the final three runs to cross the plate. Wes Timmons was 2-for-4 with two doubles and an RBI. Iker Franco also had two hits and an RBI.
6/10: Mississippi 11, West Tennessee 8 (Box Score)
Even though the pitching was a little shaky, the offense exploded for the MissBraves victory. Onil Joseph and Jeff Francoeur each had great nights. Joseph went 2-for-3 with two triples and five RBIs. He's now hitting .253 after his rough start. Francoeur went 2-for-5 with three RBIs. Wes Timmons hit a solo home run, #4 on the season. Jonathan Schuerholz also had a great night, going 3-for-5 and is now batting .279. Starter Chuck James had his worst start at AA, allowing five runs (four earned) in two innings. Ryan Basner (1-5) pitched four scoreless relief innings to earn the win. Jorge Vasquez earned his 10th save with a scoreless ninth.
6/11: Mississippi 1, West Tennessee 2 (Box Score)
The Braves lost a rain-shortened eight inning game to the DiamondJaxx on Saturday. Starter Brian O'Connor (4-3) took the loss despite pitching well. O'Connor allowed two runs on five hits in seven innings. Luis Hernandez had the only Braves hits in this game. Hernandez was 2-for-3 with a triple and scored the only run.
6/12: Mississippi, West Tenn RAINED OUT
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Myrtle Beach Pelicans (29-34, 7.0 GB)
6/9: OFF DAY
6/10: Myrtle Beach 9, Kinston 12 (Box Score)
Both the Pelicans and Indians took their lumps on the mound, however the Indians survived this battle on Saturday. Wes Letson (3-1) took the loss after allowing three runs (one earned). Chris Waters allowed five of the runs and Jason Richardson allowed the other five. Doetsch and Prado each had two hits nights. Jarrod Saltalamacchia hit home run #7 on the season.
6/11: Myrtle Beach 2, Kinston 4 (Box Score)
Kelvin Villa (0-3) had another rough outing as a Pelican. Villa, in relief of starter Brady Endl, allowed two runs and only recorded one out in the seventh inning. Endl had allowed two runs in six innings, striking out eight in the meantime. Steven Doetsch and Martin Prado each had two hits again. Matt Esquivel hit his ninth home run this season.
6/12: Myrtle Beach 1, Kinston 2 (Box Score)
The Pelicans lost a pitching duel to the Indians last night, 2-1. Sean White allowed one run in six innings, getting the no decision. Ricardo Rodriguez (1-4) took the loss after allowing a run in the eighth. Martin Prado continued his hot streak, falling a triple short of the cycle. Prado now has his batting average up to .300.
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Rome Braves (35-27, 5.5 GB)
6/9: Rome 9, Savannah 7 (Box Score)
Rome rallied from a 7-1 deficit with eight unanswered runs to win this one. Matt Young (1) and Mark Jurich (5) each blasted home runs and drove in three runs. The bullpen pitched six scoreless innings after start Luis Atilano allowed the seven early runs. Jason Paul (1-0) earned the win.
6/10: Doubleheader Cancelled by Rain
6/11: Rome 4, Hickory 3 (Box Score)
Chris Vines (4-1) pitched a complete game and the Rome Braves held on for the 4-3 victory. Vines allowed three runs (two earned) on eight hits. He walked none and struck out six. Matt Young was 3-for-3 with two walks. Ivan Terrazas was 2-for-3 with a HR (1).
6/12: Rome 3, Hickory 2 (Box Score)
Matt Young drove in the game winning run in the ninth inning as the Rome Braves take the Crawdads, 3-2. Young finished the game 2-for-4. Carl Loadenthal was 3-for-4 with two doubles. Clint Sammons also had two hits. Angelo Burrows (3-1) earned the win in relief.
Richmond 0, Rochester 9 (Box Score)
Ouch! The R-Braves were shutout, again. They were held to five singles. Sam McConnell (3-6) got roughed up in 5.2 innings. He allowed seven runs (four earned) and allowed two home runs. Hey, Matt Childers pitched two scoreless innings, that's gotta count for something.
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Mississippi Braves (31-28, 0.5 GB)
Off Day
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Myrtle Beach Pelicans (29-31, 4.0 GB)
Myrtle Beach 5, Lynchburg 7 (Box Score)
The Pelicans fought hard to rally from a 7-2 deficit in the ninth, but it was for naught. Starter Jake Stevens (3-5) did not have a good outing. Stevens went 3.1 innings and allowed five runs on four hits and three walks. Steven Doetsch was 3-for-5 with a HR and two RBIs. Ardley Jansen was 2-for-4.
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Rome Braves (32-27, 8.0 GB)
Rome 0, Savannah 1 (Box Score)
Matt Harrison tried to accomplish the unthinkable last night... back-to-back no-hitters. Unfortunately, he allowed a hit with two outs in the sixth. Tough break. Harrison finished the night with 6.2 scoreless innings, walking none and striking out five. Arthur Santos (1-1) took the loss despite giving up an unearned run (player scored on a J.C. Holt error in the 8th). The offense could only get three hits off of the Sand Gnats. Matt Young was 1-for-3 with a double.
Draft Picks:
19 (587). SS Cole Miles, Viewmont HS, UT (5'8", 160, S/R, 3/24/1987)
Article:
Class 5A All Star UT Game MVP
20 (617). RHP Andrew Cashner, Conroe HS, TX (6'5", 180, R/R, 9/11/1986)
Tall, slim pitcher. Mentioned having a "heavy fastball".
21 (647). RHP Kristopher Cichoski, Durango HS, NV (6'1", 180, R/R, 6/8/1987)
Another pitcher in the Braves mold (tall/slim), fastball with movement, change, and curve)
Article:
Class 4A All Star in NV
22 (677). RHP Thomas Hanson, Riverside CC (6'6", 210, R/R, 8/28/1986)
"Another tall/slim guy, fastball, change"
23 (707). RHP Brian O'Dell, Osceola Senior HS, FL (6'3", 180, R/R, 3/5/1987)
24 (737). OF Justin Reynolds, Central HS, OR (6'3", 195, R/R, 11/13/1986)
Article:
Game Recap Mentioning
25 (767). OF Matt Miller, Redmond HS, WA (6'2", 215, S/R, 1/26/1987)
Article:
First Team All-Star
26 (797). RHP Michael Ryan, Lake City CC (6'1", 170, R/R, 8/7/1985)
27 (827). 3B Kyle Miller, Terry Parker HS, FL (6'1", 200, R/R, 9/1/1986)
Article:
From the Braves to the Braves, cute
28 (857). P Harold Coleman, Pillow Academy HS, MS (6'4", 195, R/R, 4/4/1986)
29(887). P Tyler Musselwhite, Gainesville HS, GA (6'3", 190, R/R, 9/19/1986)
Article:
Another Clemson Recruit
30 (917). LHP Brett Wiggins, Cross Creek HS, GA (5'10", 170, L/L, 9/11/1986)
Article:
A Game Recap
31 (947). LHP Cole McCurry, Surry CC (6'2", 180, L/L, 9/25/1985)
Article:
A former Basketball Player
32 (977). RHP Brad Schwarzenbach, Cerritos Col (6'1", 205, R/R, 2/11/1986)
Article:
Player Bio for "Swartz"
33 (1007). 1B Tyler Flowers, Chipola JC (6'4", 220, R/R, 1/24/1986)
Re-drafted... 27th rounder from 2004. Was drafted last year as a catcher. Looks like he outgrew the position.
34 (1037). CF Blake Holt, Belton HS, TX (6'2", 205, R/R, 6/2/1987)
35 (1067). C Blake Guthrie, Dan River HS, VA (6'5", 190, R/R, 2/20/1987)
36 (1097). RHP Dwain Green, Logan HS, WV (6'5", 220, R/R, 7/17/1987)
A WV Pick... Cool! Don't know anything on this guy though.
37 (1127). RHP David Williams, Surry CC (6'4", 190, R/R, 5/6/1985)
Second Surry CC Pick, Teammate of #31 Cole McCurry
38 (1157). RHP Brett Scarpetta, Madison Area Tech Col (R/R, 5/16/1986)
18th Rounder in 2004 of the Chicago White Sox
39 (1186). RHP Austin Fleet, Edmond Sante Fe HS, OK (6'1", R/R, 4/17/1987)
40 (1215). RHP James Curtis, Manatee JC (6'1", 190, R/R, 5/6/1986)
41 (1244). LHP Michael Robbins, Meridian CC (6'0", 165, R/L, 1/25/1986)
42 (1273). C Thomas Alexander, Santa Barbara CC (6'1", 185, R/R, 10/31/1985)
43 (1302). OF Ryan Littlejohn, Verdigris HS, OK (5'10", 190, R/R, 9/22/1986)
What!... What!... Ok!... Yeah!... Sorry it's been a long day.
44 (1331). RHP Benjamin Jeffers, Madison Cty HS, GA (6'1", 185, R/R, 8/30/1987)
45 (1360). RHP Mikey Griffin, Issaquah HS, WA (6'1", 185, R/R, 9/22/1986)
46 (1389). SS Luis Sanchez, Lake City CC (6'0", 150, S/R, 5/27/1987)
Braves 34th rounder from 2004
47 (1417). RHP Aaron Brady, CC South Nevada (6'0", 180, R/R, 11/13/1983)
A Gray-beard, eh?... Oldest guy on the list, so far
48 (1445). OF Nathan Weidenaar, Bozeman Sr HS, MT (6'2", 190, R/R, 12/14/1986)
49 (1472). RHP Jesse Simpson, Zachary HS, LA (6'0", 180, R/R, 1/29/1987)
50 (1517). LHP Derick Himpsl, Johnstown HS, NY (6'4", 240, L/L, 6/4/1986)
Mr. Insignificant is a rather big guy!
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News Updates:
Article on Joey Devine
He hopes to sign by today at the latest. The article mentioned the thoughts that were mentioned yesterday about him potentially making it to Atlanta this season.
Official Site Press Release on Draft
Nothing new, but thought I would pass it along
Macon Telegraph article
Braves happy to get Devine, Mention Not-So-Strong Georgia crop this year, Startup compared to John Foster, A little more on Yuniel Escobar
More on Joey Devine
Devine slated to start at Myrtle Beach!
North GA article
Mentions Devine to A-ball, also Startup to A-Ball (Rome ?).
NC State Article, Another Confirmation of Devine to MB
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Draft Day Thoughts:
10:05 am: Exciting news about Devine heading to The Beach! The clock will be ticking with the NL East race and some of the disappointing bullpen arms in Atlanta. Could it be too much to ask of this college kid? Or, is he the next Huston Street?
12:29 pm: Daniel Rios, 44th rounder from 2004, picked by Pittsburgh in the 19th. Jordan Danks, 1st round talent, to 19th round by Chicago White Sox.
1:56 pm: Christian Marrero, 20th rounder from 2004, picked by Chicago White Sox in 22nd.
3:35 pm: Iain Sebastian came off the board in 29th, picked by Pittsburgh
4:18 pm: MLB Radio has just reported that the Braves have signed their first five picks. RHP Joey Devine, LHP Beau Jones, SS Yuniel Escobar, RHP Jeff Lyman, CF Jeff Schafer. As reported this morning, it looks like Devine is headed to MB.
4:28 pm: Also according to MLB, the Braves have signed seventh round pick IF Brandon Monk and eighth round pick RHP Kyle Cofield.
5:41 pm: Oakland passes in the 39th. I find it kind of curious that anyone would do this. It's not like they had to sign any of the rest of their picks. I thought Texas had passed a few rounds ago, but perhaps it was just a bunch of hot air.
5:45 pm: Other thoughts while the draft goes through the last ten rounds. There are a number of things that just get to you when listening to the draft live. A number of things just annoy you... like the team with the Napoleon Dynamite/Nerd-like tone (won't name the team) or the constant talk about not having the "red button" (I guess they were having a ton of tech problems yesterday) or the New York Yanks rep who has the horrible line connection that grates your nerves everytime they pick. There's a couple other funny things in the draft like the Mets/Orioles guys sounding like they are straight out of "Joisey". You'll also constantly hear chattering in the background and occasionally you'll hear some pretty funny comments. The only other cool thing you'll miss not listening to the draft is the antics of Tommy Lasorda, who announced the Dodgers' first 10-15 picks yesterday. Real funny stuff at times.
6:03 PM: Interview with Joey Devine on MLB Radio. Talked about the story of how his brother knew he was picked minutes before he did due to lag between online and XM radio. Mentioned his signing and that he will be going to Orlando for some sessions, then returning to Raliegh to pack up. I believe MB was mentioned, but it cut out a bit. He was cut off due to the 41st round starting.
6:23 PM: The O's went from the New York/New Jersey guy to a full South'n guy.
6:38 PM: George Washington, Junior.... 44th rd pick of the Brewers... too easy to joke about this one.
7:12 PM: Houston passes in the 47th. Still kinda funny... why give up three picks? Stay for the fun guys!
7:24 PM: St. Louis decides they are too good for 50 rounds. Wusses...
7:35 PM: One more round to go... and I can't find that damn red button.
7:36 PM: *$*(#&(*$#! Will someone please fix the Dodgers' buttons! Technical glitches, sheesh...
7:39 PM: Of course, the 50th round is always one where the other teams congratulate each other for staying awake. I couldn't imagine the pain a 60+ round brought to the teams.
7:43 PM: Even though this draft has been dreadfully longer than previous years, MLB did themselves good with their MLB.TV coverage and the "Draft Caster 2005" tool. Hopefully it gets even better next year. The Braves Mr. Insignificant is coming up shortly...
7:46 PM: Buster Posey to Anaheim in the 50th...
7:48 PM: Thanks for joining me for this coverage! The 2005 draft picks are now up in the Draft Section.
]]>Richmond 4, Rochester 3 (12 inn) (Box Score)
Mike Rosamond's 2-out single in the bottom of the 12th propelled the Braves to the 4-3 victory on Tuesday night. Jeremy Ward (2-2) earned the win with a scoreless inning of relief. Starter Daniel Curtis pitched very well, but did not get a decision. Curtis allowed one run on seven hits in six innings. Relievers Macay McBride and Frank Brooks each pitched two scoreless innings.
Offensively, James Jurries had a great night. Jurries went 3-for-4 with two doubles and a home run (8). I think this helping to disprove many doubters after his steriods suspension early this season. Very good results from Jurries. Bill McCarthy hit his fourth home run of the year.
Note: Seth Greisinger will probably be back with the R-Braves in the next day or two after being outrighted by Atlanta.
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Mississippi Braves (31-28, 0.5 GB)
Mississippi 10, Huntsville 8 (Box Score)
The MissBraves rallied for five runs in the top of the eighth to overcome the Stars, 10-8. The Braves batted around in that inning, getting RBIs from Onil Joseph (2), Luis Hernandez (1), Wes Timmons (1-walk), and Scott Thorman (1). Gregor Blanco also drove in two runs with a two-run home run in the fourth inning. Jonathan Schuerholz had two more hits and is now batting .275 on the season.
Glenn Tucker (2-2) earned the win in relief. Jorge Vasquez earned the save (9) after pitching two scoreless innings. His ERA is now at 1.23 on the season. Starter Matt Wright allowed six runs in 4.1 innings.
Note: After the game, catcher Brian McCann got the call to Atlanta.
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Myrtle Beach Pelicans (29-30, 3.5 GB)
Myrtle Beach 4, Lynchburg 0 (Box Score)
Sean White (7-1) and Ralph Roberts combined on a seven-hit shutout of the Lynchburg Hillcats. White allowed all seven hits in his seven inning outing. He walked three and struck out eight. His ERA now sits at 3.36 on the season. Roberts struck out two and walked one to finish the last two innings.
Martin Prado had a 2-for-4 night with a solo home run (2). Steven Doetsch was 2-for-4 with a double. Every other Pelican had a hit except for SS Jamie Trejo.
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Rome Braves (32-26, 8.0 GB)
Rome 5, Savannah 0 (NO HITTER!) Box Score
James Parr (5-3) and Angelo Burrows combined on a No Hitter against the Sand Gnats of Savannah. Parr went eight, walking two and striking out nine. Burrows pitched the scoreless ninth.
J.C. Holt was 2-for-5 with a HR and three RBIs. Dean White had three hits and is now batting .250. Ivan Terrazas had two hits, including a double.
Articles:
AJC
Story on the College World Series
1s* (41). LHP Beau Jones, Destrehan HS, LA (6'1", 195, L/L, 8/25/1986)
6'1... projectable pick, a Braves pick. Committed to LSU
Articles:
Louisiana Mr. Baseball
Outstanding Player of the Year Award
2 (75). SS Yuniel Escobar, Cuba (6'2", 200, R/R, 11/2/1982)
He slipped and the Braves could have gotten some value here. He might be older than listed though. There were some worries about that.
Article:
BA - Five Cubans Declare for Draft
2* (77). RHP Jeffrey Lyman, Monte Vista HS, CA (6'3", 215, R/R, 1/14/1987)
Another bulldog pitcher. Hard thrower, mid 90s. Commiteed to Arizona State, but appears to be signable.
Article:
Wyman tops locals for draft
3 (107). CF Jordan Schafer, Winter Haven HS, FL (6'1", 190, L/L, 9/4/1986)
Another one of those "worker-like" outfielders similar to the style of players like Adam Stern. He also had some accomplishments as a youngster, earning the 13-year-old of the year award by BA in 2000.
Article:
Draft put (Clemson) Tigers on Defensive
Class 4A Player of the Year
4 (137). RHP Michael Broadway, Pope County HS, IL (6'5", 190, R/R, 3/30/1987)
Plenty of potential... throws in the low 90s, eventually could be in the mid 90s
Articles:
Brief mention of this "pro prospect"
5 (167). LHP William Startup, University of Georgia (6'0", 190, L/L, 8/4/1984)
BA mentions that he throws pretty hard. Listed as a reliever.
Article:
Lead Bulldogs in Wins and Saves
6 (197). RHP Tyler Bullock, Baylor Univ (6'3", 225, R/R, 1/22/1984)
Also caught for the Baylor Bears. Relief pitcher.
Article:
Roster Bio at Baylor's Baseball Site
7 (227). 2B Brandon Monk, LaGrange HS, GA (5'11", 180, R/R, 2/22/1987)
Has a committment to Auburn
Article:
"Great Work Ethic and is a Tough Competitor"
8 (257). RHP Kyle Cofield, Southside HS, AL (6'5", 190, R/R, 1/23/1987)
Committment to Alabama
Article:
From Alabama's site
9 (287). C Steven Garcia, Temecula Valley HS, CA (5'11", 190, R/R, 9/7/1986)
10 (317). LHP Colin Carter, Grayson CC (6'1", 200, L/L, 9/26/1984)
33rd Round Pick of San Diego in 2003
11 (347). RHP Michael Nix, Auburn Univ (6'5", 235, R/R, 5/21/1983)
Reliever (low 90s), was projected around the 5th round.
12 (377). RHP Rudolph Quinonez, Fresno St U (6'2", 200, R/R, 6/17/1984)
13 (407). CF Quentin Davis, Francis Marion U (5'10", 172, L/R, 3/7/1983)
14 (437). OF Jose Cabrera, Los Angeles Pierce JC (5/10, 190, R/R, 8/3/1986)
15 (467). RHP Mason Tobin, Kentridge HS, WA (6'3", 200, R/R, 7/8/1987)
16 (497). RHP Jerome Chapman, A Crawford Mosely HS, FL (6'0", 180, R/R, 5/22/1987)
17 (527). RHP Clayton Caulfield, Pensacola JC (6'3", 195, R/R, 9/23/1985)
Braves 32nd Round Pick in 2004
18 (557). LHP Zachary Oliver, Midway HS, TX (6'2", 195, L/L, 1/29/1987)
*-Picks for the Jaret Wright-NYY signing
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Draft News/Articles:
Official Site Draft Preview
Mark Bowman is speculating that the Braves will try to grab 6'6" right-hander Chaz Roe out of Lexington, KY with their first pick. The Braves are also looking at the 22 year old Cuban SS Yuniel Escobar, a former teammate of current A-Brave Brayan Pena.
Myrtle Beach Online: Draft Memories
An entertaining piece on the draft experiences of Pelicans Manager Randy Ingle, Catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia, OF Matt Esquivel, and IF Scott Schade
Kris Harvey, Re-Entering the Draft
The Braves Fifth Round Pick in 2002 re-enters the Draft after his college stay at Clemson. He's projected to go early again and the question still remains whether or not he will pitch or catch. For those that did not remember, he's the son of former major league pitcher Bryan Harvey. If I recall correctly, I believe Harvey spent a little time in the Braves system in the early-to-mid 90s. It may have just been a spring training and I think he had run out of gas by then.
Interest in 2B Michael DeJesus
DeJesus, brother of KC prospect David, has received some interest from the Braves according to this article. He's projected to be a mid-round or later pick.
CF Colby Rasmus being looked at for #27.
OF Colby Rasmus out of Russell HS in Phenix City, AL is being looked at for the 27th pick by the Braves. The article said that the Braves expected him to be gone by the time the supplemental pick (#41) rolls around.
John Sickels--2005 NL East Mock Draft
Sickels put together a mock draft on for the NL East and had some interesting picks for the Braves. I don't think the first pick will fly (college SS Cliff Pennington). I think if you replace that pick for Rasmus or Roe and it could be pretty darn close.
Catcher Ralphie Henriquez enters the draft
If the name Henriquez sounds familiar, it is because Ralph Henriquez (Ralphie's father) was a manager for the Danville Braves and is still part of the minor league instructors/staff. Ralphie is a switch-hitter who would love to go pro. Sounds almost like a lock to go to the Braves in the first 10 rounds.
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Latest Thoughts:
8:52 am: Taking a look at the Georgia players list, here's some interesting names to look at:
SS Tyler Greene out of Georgia Tech: #2 pick in 2002, spurning the Braves for the Jackets. I'd be surprised to see him picked again by the Braves.
RHP Ian Sebastian out of Columbus HS: At 6'3", he's the size that the Braves covet and features a fastball in the low 90s.
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8:59 am: Another interesting name out in the mid first is RHP Chris Volstead out of Palm Beach Gardens HS, FL. The Braves have dipped into this high school a number of times over the past couple years. He's projected by BA in the mid first, but I would love to see him drop to the Braves. He's 6'7", 195... that screams Adam Wainwright.
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9:40 am: Taking a look around at other lists... here's some prospects that are interesting:
1B Nick Welgarz (6'3") - Power hitter, projected to go early in the first day. The Braves have mined Canada pretty well, getting Scott Thorman, Pete Orr, and Adam Stern.
RHP Tyler Herron (6'3") - Florida pitcher that's projected in the area of the supplemental first/second round.
LHP Sean West (6'8") - Rail thin pitcher in the mold of some of the Braves past picks. Could go in the second/third.
There's also a number of college pitchers mixed in there from GA that could be picked.
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1:39 pm: Got back a little late for the first round. I'm surprised I can pick up MLB Radio. Getting ready for the supplemental first.
First round notes: Colby Rasmus went off the board to St. Louis with the 28th pick (one after the Braves, kinda suprising). SS Tyler Greene also went to the Cards (#30). The Cuban SS Escobar and RHP Roe are still both on the board. Could one go to the Braves in the supplemental first?
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1:59 PM: Chaz Roe to the Rockies in supplemental. Vinny Castilla strikes again!
2:02 PM: Eli Iorg... brother of former Brave Isaac, picked by Astros at 38.
2:05 PM: Braves -> Beau Jones, LHP, Lousiana HS
2:08 PM: West/Herron off the board.
2:13 PM: Daniel Carte, a WV kid (my home state) taken... WV guys are a pretty rare breed in the draft.
2:18 PM: A GA catcher, Jonathan Egan to Boston
2:22 PM: Kris Harvey went to Florida at 64. Listed him as an outfielder. Was listed as a catcher or pitcher. Interesting...
2:29 PM: Ralphie Henriquez went to Houston at 72. Switch-hitting catcher with a little power is a rare thing. Braves up in a sec.
2:30 PM: Braves get the Cuban at 75
2:50 PM: GT Pitcher Neighborgall taken of the board by Arizona. Fastball guy that doesn't have good control. Micah Owings, Brave minor leaguer Jon Mark's brother, also taken by Arizona.
3:00 PM: Weglarz to the Indians
3:12 PM: After this pick, I need to get back to work. Will check back in about 30 minutes.
5:52 PM: MLB Radio Interviewed 4th rounder Michael Broadway. He was pretty compliamentary of the Braves, nothing out of the norm. He said he was ready to start his career and couldn't wait to become an Atlanta Brave.
6:38 PM: Could someone please find these teams that damn red button? I think Lasorda stole it.
6:56 PM: DeJesus to Cincinnati in the 15th. This has to be the longest first day of the draft since I've started covering this... sheesh...
7:46 PM: It's finally over! The draft will start at 12:00 PM (EST) at round 19. Overall, this draft has fallen to be expected... a lot of high school picks. The pick of Devine is pretty interesting though.
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Other Draft Stuff:
BravesBeat Draft History
I updated the site for the 2004 draft finally. It has all of the previous year's drafts now.
Mac's Draft Postings
Mac at Braves Journal reviewed some of the previous drafts in recent weeks. Here's a list of those:
1999 - Go, John Foster
1994 - Second in a series
2000 - Evolution
2001 - The Matriculators
1986 - What Might Have Been
1992 - It Begins
1995 - The value of a Stanford education
1996 - Zapped
AAA
Tony Pena Jr: .370/.400/.444 3 steals
Kevin Barry: 5IP, 4H, 0 BB, 0 ER, 6K
Pat Kelly: Constant fortitude in the face of losing Johnson, Marte, Pena, Foster, Greisenger, and Davies to the Big Leagues. Our hearts go out to you Pat.
AA
Everybody on offense, but especially Luis Hernandez (.263/.417/.421). If he can hit at anything close to .750 OPS in the major leagues, he’ll be a fixture.
Other noteworthy performances:
Jeff Francoeur: .290/.343/.516 2 HR (3BB in 31AB)
Onil Joseph: .393/.500/.429 (check out that OBP)
JS Jr: .346/.393/.500 3 SB
Scott Thorman: .387/.441/.742 3 2B, 3B, 2 HR
Wes Timmons: .440/.588/.680 (now that’s doing work)
Solid pitching performances by Lerew and Wright this past week. (Lerew followed that up by getting a jump on the next week’s honors with a 2-hit gem last night), and the Bullpen has been lights out with Basner, Boyer, Tucker, and Vasquez (20.2 IP, 13H, 4BB, 2ER, 11K).
High-A
Josh Burrus .313/.389/.469 with a HR and 2 SB
Matt Esquivel .258/.324/.581 with 3 HR
Martin Prado .458/.517/.500 (turning an early season draught around quickly)
Paul Bush, Brady Endl, and Jake Stevens combined for 23 IP, 16H, 11 BB, 19K. Granted the defense got a wee shaky behind Bush with 5 unearned; still, these guys are each putting together nice season with Dal Canton.
A
Jurich’s got it going: .357/.379/.607 with a HR
Loadenthal continues his hot streak: .280/.471/.440
Burrows is powering the relief corps (5 IP, 1ER, 6K), and Atilano, Harrison, and Parr continue to put up quality starts
Richmond 0, Pawtucket 3 (Box Score)
The R-Braves lost Andy Marte to Atlanta and they seemed to lose their bats again. The PawSox threw a one-hitter and struck out a combined 14 R-Braves. Zach Miner (2-4) allowed three runs in six innings, walking one and striking out three. Esix Snead had the lone hit, a single. No other Brave reached base.
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Mississippi Braves (30-28, 1.0 GB)
Mississippi 7, Huntsville 1 (Box Score)
Anthony Lerew (5-2) pitched a complete game, allowing one run on two hits. The right-hander also had a triple at the plate. Jonathan Schuerholz hit his second home run in a week, #3 on the season. Jeff Francoeur hit his ninth home run of the year, a two-run shot off of former Brave Brett Evert. Luis Hernandez was 3-for-4.
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Myrtle Beach Pelicans (28-30, 5.0 GB)
Myrtle Beach 3, Wilmington 2 (Box Score)
Josh Burrus' first hit of the night was the game-winning hit, a solo home run in the 11th inning. Matt Esquivel was 2-for-4 with a HR (8). Wes Letson (2-0) earned the win in relief. Starter Brady Endl allowed 2 runs in 5.2 innings pitched. He walked seven and struck out three.
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Rome Braves (31-26, 8.0 GB)
Rome-Charleston Rained Out
]]>While this is a pretty big blow to what has been a pretty weak offense this year, it is time for more youngsters to step up. David O'Brien of the AJC speculated that Wilson Betemit could see more time at the hot corner than Marte due to Betemit's hot start. I tend to disagree based on a couple points:
1. The Braves would not have moved Marte up to sit the bench. Why start his clock now if you are going to use Betemit mostly? If the plan was to bring up a player to sit the bench, wouldn't Tony Pena, Jr be a better choice?
2. Andy Marte has been the hot choice of many fans to bring up to help the team. This has a pretty reminiscent feel of the beginning of the major league careers of Marcus Giles, Andruw Jones, and Rafael Furcal. The Braves are giving Marte the chance to prove his prospectdom.
As I've said plenty of times before, Marte is an excellent, excellent prospect. Very smooth around the bag, good arm, very good eye at the plate. It will be very entertaining to watch him in the Bigs.
29th Rd OF Trevion Griffin, Lurleen B. Wallace JC, Alabama
31st Rd RHP Jamie Richmond, Texarkana CC, Texas
36th Rd C Phillip Britton, Olney Central JC, Illinois
37th Rd RHP Josh Ward, Chipola JC, Florida
45th Rd LHP Jesse Warren, Rockingham CC, North Carolina
*46th Rd RHP Marcus Covington, Louisburg CC, North Carolina
* If you recall, Covington was also the 42nd round pick of the Braves in 2003.
The Braves lead all teams in the majors with 2004 "DnF"'s with their six signed.
Due to a number of issues, I've pulled together our minor league team and Brad at No Pepper to reform the site. Brad is still focusing his time on his job, but the hope is that he will be aboard to help this new team as soon as he can.
If you weren't around to see the old FutureBraves.com, be sure to check out the archive of the old site, thanks to the "Wayback Machine" at archive.com.
I'm also looking for volunteers to help around with the site to help keep it up-to-date, so if you are interested, drop me a line at merv@bravesbeat.com.
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