NYPL Alumni Make The AFL Rising Stars Game

Today, the Arizona Fall League announced the rosters for its Rising Stars Game this Saturday, November 6th at 6 pm in Arizona (9 pm in the East).  The game will be televised live by the MLB Network and online at MLB.com.  Several NYPL Alumni have earned positions in this special game.

East All-Stars:
Mesa (Angles, Cubs, Mets, Phillies, Pirates); Phoenix (Athletics, Braves, Dodgers, Marlins, Yankees); Scottsdale (Diamondbacks, Giants, Nationals, Orioles, Rockies)

Steve Cishek, RHP, Marlins Prospect, Jamestown Jammers 2007
     7 Games, 1 Save, 7.2 IP, 2 R/2ER, 8 Hits, 3 BB, 10 K
Justin De Fratus, RHP, Phillies Prospect, Williamsport Crosscutters 2008
     5 Games, 5.0 IP, 0R/0ER, 1 Hit, 2BB, 10K, 4.0 GO/AO, .063 Avg.
Brad Holt, RHP, Mets Prospect, Brooklyn Cyclones 2008
     4 Games, 4 Starts, 2-1, 2.38 ERA, 11.1 IP, 7 Hits, 6R/3ER, 8BB, 12 K, .175
Cole Kimball, RHP, Nationals Prospect, Vermont Lake Monsters 2006/2007
     6 Games, 1 Save, 1.29 ERA, 7.0 IP, 5 Hits, 1 R/1ER, 1 BB, 7 K, .200 Avg.
Josh Zeid, RHP, Phillies Prospect, Williamsport Crosscutters 2009
     4 Games, 4 Starts, 3-0, 3.86 ERA, 14.0 IP, 6R/6ER, 1 BB, 12 K, .204 Avg.
Ryan Adams, IF, Orioles Prospect, Aberdeen IronBirds 2006/2007
     10 Games, .289 Avg. (11-38), 2 2B, 1 HR, 11 RBI, 1 BB, 9 K
Jordanny Valdespin, IF, Mets Prospect, Brooklyn Cyclones 2009
     16 Games, .364 Avg. (24-66), 2 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 11 RBI, 3 BB, 9 K, 7 SB, 0 CS
Michael Burgess, OF, Nationals Prospect, Vermont Lake Monsters 2007
     11 Games, .244 Avg. (10-41), 2 2B, 1 3B, 7 RBI, 3 BB, 14 K, 1 SB

West All-Stars
Peoria Javelinas (Astros, Blue Jays, Indians, Mariners, Red Sox); Peoria Saguaros (Padres, Rays, Reds, Twins, White Sox); Surprise (Brewers, Cardinals, Rangers, Royals, Tigers)

Ryan Lavarnway, C, Red Sox Prospect, Lowell Spinners 2008
     12 Games, .267 Avg. (12-45), 2 2B, 1 HR, 7 RBI, 12 BB, 9 K
Jose Iglesias, IF, Red Sox Prospect, Lowell Spinners 2010
     9 Games, .294 Avg. (10-34), 4 RBI, 1 BB, 4 K, 3 SB, 1 CS
Jason Kipnis, IF, Indians Prospect, Mahoning Valley Scrappers 2009
     11 Games, .159 Avg. (7-44), 3 2B, 1 3B, 2HR, 10 RBI, 3 BB, 5 K, 1 SB
   

Lowell Spinners Hold Ticket Prices Steady for 2011

On October 29th, the Lowell Spinners, NYPL Affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, announced their upcoming 2011 schedule.  In addition to the news that Lowell will host the 6th Annual NYPL All-Star Game on Tuesday August 16th, the Spinners front-office stated that it will keep ticket prices the same as the 2010 season.

"We aim to provide the most affordable family entertainment option for families throughout the Merrimack Valley and beyond," said Spinners Vice President and General Manager Tim Bawmann. "By maintaining our price structure from 2010, we ensure families can enjoy the best entertainment the Merrimack Valley has to offer at an affordable price."

Tri-City/Batavia Playoff Game Named MiLB Game of the Year

In fan voting at MiLB.com, Game 1 of this season's NYPL Semi-Final between Stedler Division Champion Tri-City ValleyCats and Pinckney Divison Champion Batavia Muckdogs was named the Short-Season A Game of the Year:

Class A Short-Season — Daniel Adamson hits walk-off playoff shot
 
Pinch-hitter Daniel Adamson came through in the clutch for Tri-Cities on Sept. 7, blasting a walk-off homer to complete an unlikely 10-9 victory over Batavia in Game 1 of the New York-Penn League semifinals. Adamson's homer set the postseason tone for the ValleyCats, who went on to win their first-ever league title.

Rochester Community Baseball To Run Muckdogs in 2011

With a pending contract between Rochester Community Baseball (RCB) and the Genesee County Baseball Club (GCBC) set to expire on October 31, Naomi Silver, President and CEO of the RCB, announced that the group will continue to operate the Batavia Muckdogs for the 2011 NYPL Season.

Naomi Silver, President and CEO of RCB, Inc. stated that "The Red Wings are very pleased to be able to continue to help Batavia in maintaining the operation of the Muckdogs. The Muckdogs are an extremely important asset; not only of great financial value as a Minor League Baseball franchise, but an important entertainment venue in the Batavia community. We would not want to walk away from the operation, leaving the team at risk of not being able to support itself financially while awaiting a sale. Our staying will permit the GCBC board the opportunity to seek out a sale of the Muckdogs on terms which will be most beneficial to the Batavia Community."

Earlier this summer, the RCB, owners and operators of the AAA Rochester Red Wings, announced it was not interested in running the nearby Muckdogs due to low attendance, low advertising revenue, and accumlated yearly losses.  As a result, the GCRC decided to seek bids to sell the franchise.  According to a report in the Batavia Daily News, the GCRC have had inquiries from several groups and negotiations are ongoing.

In September, the GCRC and the St. Louis Cardinals renewed their Player Development Contract for the 2011 and 2012 seasons.  This move led to speculation that the RBC would continue operating the team, as well.

The RBC has operated the Muckdogs since 2008, and their contract with the GCRC allows them to net 5% of the total sales price for each year.  With a committment for 2011, the RBC will be entitled to 20% of the final price, which could earn the group $800,000 if the team sells for the going NYPL rate of 4 million dollars.

Brian Paris, President of the GCBC, is confident that the team will remain in Batavia for the 2011 season:

With five months to go before the start of a new season, it is increasingly unlikely that a new owner or ownership group would have the resources — namely a facility — to move the franchise before the start of the 2011 season.

“There’s no facility that I know of, within the geographic area of the New York-Penn League, that would be suitable to move a team into,” said Brian Paris, president of the Genesee County Baseball Club, via phone Tuesday. “So with each day that passes, it grows more unlikely that a new buyer would relocate the team. There’s no guarantee, but logically, it would be difficult to pull off.”

He is also hoping that the final sale of the franchise goes to a local buyer.  If not, the next best option would be for local individuals or groups to come up with the added advertising dollars to make it advantageous for any owner or ownership group to keep the team in Batavia:

“Our hope is that a local sale will occur, or that an individual or company will step forward with an interest in spending substantial sponsorship dollars, allowing the financial  picture to improve,” said Paris.  “A company interested in naming rights, for example, would  make a big difference here in Batavia, the way it has in most communities around the country.” 

Regardless of who is the eventual owner or owners of the team, it is vitally important for the fans in Genesee County to go out and support the Muckdogs in order to stay in the area.  Last year, the Muckdogs were last in attendence for the NYPL, and 166th out of 176 affiliated MLB Minor League teams, with a total of 36,601. 

Former Cyclone Named AFL Player Of The Week

Last Monday, former Brooklyn Cyclone pitcher, Brad Holt, was named the pitcher-of-the-week for Week 2 of the prestigious Arizona Fall League.  Holt, a first round draft pick of the Mets in 2008, played for the Cyclones that same season.  That year, he went 5-3 with a 1.87 ERA and 96 strikeouts in 72.1 innings.  Besides making the NYPL All-Star team in 2008, Holt was named to the Florida State League (Advanced A) All-Star team in 2009.  After a rough 2010, where he went a combined 3-14 with a 8.34 ERA with St. Lucie (Florida State League) and Binghamton (AA Eastern League), Holt seems to have regained his confidence in this Minor League All-Star league:

Brad Holt, Mesa Solar Sox
The 24-year-old Holt, a right-hander, sports a 2-0 record with a perfect 0.00 ERA in two starts. He has allowed only four hits and four walks in nine innings pitched with five strikeouts.
 
The Mets' first-round (33rd overall) choice in the 2008 Draft, Holt, a native of Albermarle, North Carolina, divided his 2010 season between High-A St. Lucie and Double-A Binghamton. He owns a 15-24 career record with a 5.29 ERA in 58 appearances (57 starts) in three minor-league seasons.  

MiLB Profiles Former Doubleday Erik Kratz

"If the day comes when I'm done playing, I want to say at the end that I've put everything I had into it. I want to say that I've worked hard to be in the best shape I can and to be prepared every day, whether I'm playing or not." This philosophy, he knows, "won't make you a big leaguer over night. But it is a mindset that will help you to improve." -- Erik Kratz.

Earlier today, Josh Johnson posted a profile of current Pittsburgh Pirates minor league catcher, Erik Kratz at MiLB.com.  Kratz, who made this year's International League All-Star team, just returned from a successful competition at the 2010 COPABE Pan-American/World Cup Qualifier Tournament in Puerto Rico.

Erik started his career as a 29th round draft pick of the Tornto Blue Jays in 2002.  In 2003, he spent 49 games with the Blue Jays' then-affiliate Auburn Doubledays, and hit .312.  In 2004, he returned to the NYPL team for another 10 games where he hit .308.

From 2002 through 2008, Erik went from Rookie ball in the Pioneer League (Medicine Hat) to the AAA International League (Syracuse).  After his 7th season, Erik became a free-agent and decided to find a team where he could get more playing time.  He was signed by the Pittsburgh Pirates and was assigned to their AAA affiliate in Indianapolis.

In 2009, Kratz was named to the AAA International League (IL)/Pacific Coast League (PCL) All-Star Game, and was named "Top Star" of the game.  In 2010, he again made the IL team.  During the game, he was notified that he had been promoted to the Big Leagues for the very first time.  He stayed with the Pirates for 9 games before returing to Indianapolis in August. 

Erik recently cleared waivers and is still with Pittsburgh.  However, the door remains open for him to find a team that will give him a better chance to make it back to "The Show".

SI Pitcher Named As Finalist For MiLB "Best Reliever"

This week's category for Minor League Baseball's End-Of-Year Awards is "Best Reliever".  For Short Season Leagues, the only NYPL player to be nominated is Staten Island Yankees' Chase Whitley.

Whitley, a 15th round selection out of Troy University in this year's MLB Draft, appeared in 28 games for Staten Island.  Over his NYPL season, Chase went 4-2 with a 1.31 ERA and 15 saves.  In 34.1 IP, he gave up 18 hits, 5 earned runs, and 15 walks while striking out 44.  He had an impressive GO/AO (Ground Out/ Fly Out) ratio of 1.71 while holding opposing batters to .157 average.

His season was so solid that the Yankees moved him up to the Advanced A team in Tampa in September.

The voting will continue through October 25th.

For those interested in last week's poll, Brooklyn Cyclone Cory Vaughn came in 2nd place for Best Short Season Hitter of the Year.

Former IronBird named Top AFL Player Of The Week

Baltimore Orioles infield prospect Ryan Adams (2006,2007 Aberdeen IronBirds) was named Co-Player of the Week for the first week of the prestigious Arizona Fall League:

Ryan Adams, Scottsdale Scorpions
The 6-0, 195-pound Adams hit .500 (6-12) with 2 runs, 1 home run, and 7 RBIs.
A New Orleans native, Adams spent the 2010 season at Double-A Bowie where he hit .298 with 43 doubles, 15 home runs and 68 RBI with a .365 on-base percentage and .464 slugging percentage.
In five Minor League seasons, Adams owns a .287 batting average with 34 home runs and 184 RBIs.
He was the Orioles' second-round (58th overall) selection in the 2006 Draft.

Oakland A's outfield prospect  Michael Taylor (2007 Williamsport Crosscutters) was also considered for the award after his strong week -- .471 (8 for 17) 2 doub., 2 homeruns, 6RBI

IronBird Named A Top Orioles

MiLB has recently started an alphabetical review of each MLB team's Organizational All-Stars.  This year, MiLB has decided to name a parent club's top player at each position.  So far, Kipp Schutz, Baltimore's 2010 19th round selection out of Indiana University, is the first NYPL player to be named to this list.

Left fielder -- Kipp Schutz, Aberdeen (68 games): The 2009 19th-rounder led all Orioles' Minor Leaguers with a .313 average. Schutz finished ninth in the New York-Penn League with 116 total bases and was the starting left fielder for the AL All-Stars. He led the IronBirds with five triples and 42 RBIs.

AFL Week One Summary For NYPL Alumni

The first of the seven week Arizona Fall League was completed on Saturday.

AFL American Division
Team                                                                                       W        L       T     GB
Mesa Solar Sox (Mets,Cubs,Phillies,Pirates,Angels)                     4         1       0       -
Scottsdale Scorpions (O's,Nats,Giants,D'Backs,Rockies)             4         1       0       -
Phoenix Desert Dogs (Yanks,A's,Dodgers,Braves,Marlins)           2         3       0      2.0

AFL National Division
Team                                                                                        W        L      T      GB
Peoria Javelinas (Indians,Astros,Mariners,Blue Jays,Red Sox)       2         2       1       -
Surprise Rafters (Cards,Tigers,Rangers,Royals,Brewers)               2         3       0      0.5
Peoria Saguaros (Reds,Padres,Twins,White Sox,Rays)                 0         4       1     2.0

Note: League rules state a tie game is called if the teams are tied-up after the 11th inning

NYPL Alumni High-lights:
Ryan Adams (Orioles/Scottsdale,'06/'07 Aberdeen): .500 (6 for 12), homerun, 7RBI
Michael Taylor (A's/Phoenix,'07 Williamsport): .471 (8 for 17) 2 doub., 2 homeruns, 6RBI
Derek Norris (Nats/Scottsdale,'08 Vermont): .444 (4 for 9), 1 doub., 1 homerun, 3RBI
Jordy Mercer (Pirates/Mesa,'08 State College): .429 (6 for 14), 2 doub., 5 RBI
Brad Holt (Mets/Mesa,'08 Brooklyn): 1 Win(1-0),3.0 IP, 1 hit, 1 walk, 1 stikeout, 0 runs
Casey Kelly (Red Sox/Peo.Jav,'08 Lowell): 1 Win(1-0),4.0IP, 3 hits, 2R/0ER, 3 strikeouts
Josh Zeid (Phillies/Mesa, '09 Williamsport): 1 Win(1-0), 3.0IP, 2 hits, 1R/1ER, 3 strikeouts
Craig Heyer (Yanks/Phoenix,'07 Staten Isl.): 2.0 IP, 0 hits, 0R/0ER, 0 walks, 1 strikeout
Cole Kimball (Nats/Scotts.,'06/'07 Vermont): 2 G,2.0IP, 0 hits, 0R/0ER, 0 BB, 4 strikeouts
Alex Cobb (Rays/Peo. Sag,'07 Hud. Valley): 3.0 IP,3 hits,0 hits,0R/0ER,0 BB,3 strikeouts

NYPL Alumni Lesser-lights:
Tony Cruz (Cards/Surprise,'07 Batavia): .118 (2 for 17), 3 RBI, 5 strikeouts
Osvaldo Martinez (Marlins/Phoenix,'07 Jamestown): .133 (2 for 15), 4 strikeouts
Ben Guez (Tigers/Surprise,'08 Oneonta): .154 (2 for 13), 1 homerun, 7 strikeouts
Kris Negron (Reds/Peo. Sag.,'06 Lowell): .214 (3 for 14),1R,2BB, 6 strikeouts,1CS
Eammon Portice (Red Sox/Peo Jav.,'07 Lowell): 1.0 IP, 4 hits, 5R/5ER,2 HBP,1K
Sean West (Marlins/Phoenix,'05 Jamestown): 2.0 IP,4 hits,4R/3ER,2 BB,2 K
B.J. Rosenberg (Phillies/Mesa,'08 Williamsport): 1.2 IP,5 hits, 3R/3ER, 2 BB, 1K

Also,------
MLB has asked several of the AFL players to write blogs about their experiences.  Check out  the sites for NYPL Alumnis Josh Zeid (Phillies, Williamsport) and Jason Kipnis (Indians, Mahonin Valley).

Hamilton's Time In The Hudson Valley

The Poughkeepsie Journal has an article about Josh Hamilton and his two tours in the NYPL:

"I mean, you could just tell when he stepped into the batter's box that he didn't belong in the New York-Penn League, even with all he'd been through," -- 2006 Hudson Valley Renegades Manager Matt Quataro.

Josh Hamilton, Texas Rangers All-Star and potential 2010 Americn League MVP, was originally the #1 pick of the Tampa Bay (Devil) Rays in 1999.  After the draft, Hamilton was promoted from Tampa's Appalachian League affiliate in Princeton, West Virginia, to its NYPL affiliate, the Hudson Valley Renegades.  In just 16 regular season games, the 18 year-old hit .194.  In the 1999 NYPL playoffs, however, Hamilton hit .429 with 2 home runs and 8 RBI to lead the Renegades to its only League Championship.

Over the 2000-2002 seasons Hamilton moved up and down the Tampa Bay minor leagues with stops in Charleston (A), Orlando (AA), and Bakersfield (Advanced A).  Then, Josh's drug addiction took over and he was out of organized baseball.  After conquering his addictions and serving his suspension from the game, he made his comeback in 2006 playing in Hudson Valley.

Hamilton was left off of the Rays 40 man roster after the 2006 season.  He was taken by the Chicago Cubs in the 2007 Rule 5 Draft and then sent to Cincinnati.  At the end of the 2007 season, the Reds traded Josh to the Texas Rangers for Edinson Volquez and Danny Herrera.  The rest is baseball history......

Team USA Finishes Third At Pan-Am Qualifier

Despite winning its first nine games of the COPABE Pan-Am/World Cup Qualifier Tournament, Team USA lost its Semi-Final game to the Dominican Republic, 7-2, on Tuesday evening.  The loss placed the team into the Bronze Medal game against Venezuela today.  After a lengthy rain delay, the game was cancelled leaving USA and Venezuela tied for the Third Place.  The Dominican Republic defeated Cuba, 5-2, to take home the Gold Medal.

With its strong showing over the first two rounds, the USA has now qualified for the 2011 Pan-American Games in Mexico, as well as the 2011 World Cup.

Here are the final stats for the NYPL Alumni:

Chase D'Araud (Pirates Prospect, 2008 State College Spikes)
.321 (9-28) with 4 doubles, 1 triple, 4 RBI, 5 walks, and 4 strikeouts

Erik Kratz (Pirates Prospect, 2003/2004 Auburn Doubledays)
.278 (5-18) with 2 doubles, 4 RBI, 1 HBP, and 3 strikeouts

Brad Eldred (Rockies Prospect, 2002 Williamsport Crosscutters)
.250 (10-40) with 2 doubles, 1 triple, 1 home run, 5 RBI, 4 walk, 1 HBP, and 9 strikeouts

Cord Phelps (Indians Prospect, 2008 Mahoning Valley Scrappers)
.237 (9-38) with 1 double, 2 triples, 6 RBI, 3 walks, and 6 strikeouts

Todd Redmond (Braves Prospect, 2005 Williamsport Crosscutters)
2-0, 1.42 ERA, 12.2 IP, 10 hits, 3 R/2 ER, 2 walks, 10 strikeouts

Justin De Fratus (Phillies Prospect, 2008 Williamsport Crosscutters)
0-0, 5 relief appearances, 1 save, 4.2 IP, 5 hits, 2 R/1 ER, 0 walks, and 3 strikeouts

NYPL Alumni In The Arizona Fall League

Today is Opening Day for the Arizona Fall League (AFL), the premier fall/winter league for minor league prospects.

According to the League Website, each team is required to send six players with the following eligibility (note: the items described below are more like guidelines than hard and fast rules):

All Triple-A and Double-A players are eligible, provided the players are on at least a Double-A level roster no later than Aug. 1.

One player below the Double-A level is allowed per Major League team.

One foreign player is allowed, as long as the player does not reside in a country that participates in winter ball, as part of the Caribbean Confederation or the Australian winter league.

No players with more than one year of credited Major League service as of August 31 are eligible, except a team may select one player picked in the most recently concluded Major League Rule 5 Draft.

To be eligible, players on Minor League disabled lists must be activated at least 45 days before the conclusion of their respective seasons.

The players are then split up into 6 teams, each with a 30-man roster.  The teams are scheduled to compete against each other Monday-Saturday for 6 weeks:
Mesa Solar Sox--- prospects from the Angels, Mets, Cubs, Phillies, and Pirates
Peoria Javelinas--- prospects from the Indians, Astros, Mariners, Blue Jays, and Red Sox
Peoria Sagueros---prospects from the Reds, Padres, Twins, White Sox, and Rays
Pheonix Desert Dogs--prospects from the Yankees, Marlins,Dodgers, Athletics, and Braves
Scottsdale Scorpions---prospects from the Nationals, Rockies, Diamondbacks, Orioles, and Giants
Surprise Rafters---prospects from  Cardinals,Tigers,Rangers,Royals, and Brewers

The Rising Stars game will be played on Saturday November 6th and the Championship Game is scheduled for Saturday November 20th.  Both games are scheduled to be aired on the MLB Network.

NYPL Alumni can be found in each of the 6 teams.  Over the next few weeks, these players will be spotlighted.

In the first game of the day, the Mesa Solar Sox (1-0) defeated the Phoenix Desert Dogs (0-1), 8-3 (box).  The winning pitcher was Brad Holt (1-0), who was the NY Mets' 1st round draft pick in 2008.  That season, he pitched for the Brooklyn Cyclones and went 5-3 with a 1.87 ERA.  This year, he struggled greatly in Advanced A and AA ball, where he went a combined 3-14 with a 8.34 ERA.  Today, Brad went 3.0 innings giving up only one hit.  He threw 23 of 37 pitches for strikes, while striking out one batter.

Kirk Nieuwenhuis (Mets Prospect, 2008 Brooklyn Cyclones) started in Center Field, and went 2-3 with a double, a run scored, a walk, and 2 RBI for the Solar Sox.  1B Matt Rizzotti (Phillies Prospect, 2008 Williamsport Crosscutters) went 2-4 with a walk for Mesa.  RF Michael Taylor (Athletics Prospect, 2007 Williamsport Crosscutters) went 2-4 with a home run, a run scored, and 2 RBI for Phoenix.

In the other afternoon game, the Suprise Rafters (1-0) beat the Peoria Javelinas (0-1) by a score of 8-6 (box).  LF Ben Guez (Tigers Prospect, 2008 Oneonta Tigers) went 2-4 with a home run, 2 runs scored, and 1 RBI.  LF Jack Shuck (Astros Prospect, 2008 Tri-City ValleyCats) went 1-5 with a triple and RBI, and 1B Michael McDade (Blue Jays Prospect, 2008 Auburn Doubledays) went 2-4 with a double and an RBI for Peoria.

UPDATE:
The evening game saw the Scottsdale Scorpions (1-0) defeat the Peopria Saguaros (0-1), 4-3 (box).  Scottsdale took the lead in the bottom of the eighth inning when 3B Ryan Adams (Orioles Prospect, 2006/2007 Aberdeen IronBirds) delivered a single for the go-ahead run.  For the game, Adams went 1-4 with 1 walk, 1 strikout, and 1 RBI.  Starting catcher Derek Norris (Nationals Prospect, 2008 Vermont Lake Monsters) went 1-2 with one home run, 2 walks, 2 RBI, and 2 runs scored.  He also caught 2 different runners attempting to steal.  Also, Scorpions relief pitcher Brad Peacock (Nationals Prospect, 2008 Vermont Lake Monsters) threw 2.0 innings with 1 hit, 0 runs, and 4 strikeouts.  For the losing Saguaros, starting pitcher Alex Cobb (Rays Prospect, 2007 Hudson Valley Renegades) went 3.0 innings giving up 3 hits, 1 walk, 3 strikeouts, and throwing 24 of 36 pitches for strikes.

Almonte Voted Best Starter, Vaughn Nominated For Best Hitter

Minor League Baseball (MiLB) announced the results of its fan voting for Best Starter on Monday, and Brooklyn Cyclone Yohan Amonte was the winner for Short Season:

Class A Short-Season: Yohan Almonte (8-1, 1.91 ERA)
The Cyclones compiled the best winning percentage in all of short-season baseball in 2010, and Almonte was a big reason why. The 20-year-old, signed as an undrafted free agent out of the Dominican Republic in 2007, led the league with a 1.91 ERA while pacing the Cyclones with eight victories. Almonte racked up four times as many strikeouts (60) as he did walks (15), and didn't allow an earned run in seven of his 15 starts. The ultra-lanky righty (listed as 6'1", 150 pounds) posted the only nine-inning complete game shutout in the New York-Penn League, scattering six hits in a dominating win over Connecticut on August 28. Almonte got 44 percent of the overall vote, triumphing in a close race over Bristol's Spencer Arroyo (37 percent) and handily beating rotation-mate Angel Cuan (14 percent).

This week's MiLBy Award category is best hitter.  Cyclone Cory Vaughn is the lone representative from the NYPL.  Cory was selected by the NY Mets' in the fourth round of the 2010 Draft out of San Diego State University.  In his 72 game season, he hit .307 with 14 doubles, 5 triples, 14 home runs, 56 RBI, and an OPS of .953.  You can follow this link to vote for Cory and make it back-to-back victories for the Cyclones and the NYPL.

Getting To Know You, Getting To Know All About You

Earlier this month, the Oakland A's were the last team standing in the Player Development Contract (PDC) with Short Season A Leagues.  The Washington Nationals moved their NYPL affiliation from Vermont to Auburn, after the Blue Jays left Auburn to go to the Vancouver Canadiens of the Northwest League.  These moves left the A's having to leave the Northwest League and come east to sign up with the Vermont Lake Monsters.

Reading how this dynamic played out, the A's do not appear to have had much active due diligence with the Vermont franchise prior to the completion of the 2 year PDC.  Now that the contract is in place, Oakland is just starting to learn about the organization.  According to the Burlington Free Press, Ted Polakowski, Director of Minor League Baseball Operations, recently paid a visit to Vermont to spend time with team Owner Ray Pecor, Vice President Kyle Bostwick, and General Manager Nate Cloutier.

“It was more fact-finding, start to break the ice, start to get to know each other,” Polakowski said about his visit.

“I think it was a start of a great relationship. The A’s are a very family oriented organization and we are happy with the our new relationship,” Lake Monsters general manager Nate Cloutier said.

After these meetings, Mr. Polakowski toured the team's facilites at Centennial Field on the University of Vermont campus.  Built in 1906, Centennial Field is the oldest park in the NYPL, as well as one of the oldest fields in the United States.  It was renovated in 1922 and expanded in 1995.  The Field is owned and maintained by the University.

Presently, the Field has a capacity of 4,415 and this past season had an average game attendance of 2,524, which was 9th in the 14 team league.

In 2010, the Office of the Commissioner of Major League Baseball reported that the field is "dilapidated" due to substandard conditions in the playing surface, lights, and dressing rooms.  A new engineering study is due out this month which will address the conditions of the concrete grandstands.

However, problematic these items are, Mr. Polakowski, a 28 year veteran with the Oakland franchise, looked for the positives:

“Obviously, the facility report says it is not stellar,” Polakowski said of the field. “I’m not sure whether it played into the Nationals hand on leaving, but it may have. Looking at it, and what I heard today about improvements and the facility studies and dollars being spent to protect the playing field and upgrade the playing field, was good,” he said.

Whether aware of the problems or not, before signing the recent PDC, Mr. Polakowski and the Oakland Athletics will need to spend a significant amount of time and energy dealing with the team administrators and the University into making the necessary renovations and improvements of the stadium for the health and well-being of the team and their valuable players, as well as continuted support from the fans.  If not, the long term success of the PDC and the franchise may be in jeopardy.

USA Blanks Team Canada, 4-0

This afternoon, Team USA defeated Team Canada, 4-0, in second round action of the COPABE Pan American/World Cup Qualifier Tournament.  The win puts the USA at 6-0 in the second round (8-0 overall), and Canada at 2-4 (4-4 overall).  With one game left in the second round, the USA has, already, earned spots in the Tournament Final Four, the 2011 World Cup, and the 2011 Pan American Games.  The loss denies Canada, the 3rd ranked team in COPABE and 7th ranked in the International Baseball Federation, a spot in the Tournament Semi-Finals.  Canada will have to await the results of all of tomorrow's games to find out if they have a spot in the World Cup and Pan American Games.

It was a quiet day for the NYPL Alumni on Team USA.  DH Brad Eldred (Rockies System, 2002 Williamsport Crosscutters) went 0-4, 2B Cord Phelps (Indians System, 2008 Mahoning Valley Scrappers) went 1-4 with a run, and SS Chase D'Arnaud (Pirates System, 2008 State College Spikes) went 0-3.

On the Candian side, 2B Pete Orr (Nationals System, 2000 Jamestown Jammers) went 1-4, DH Jimmy Van Ostrand (Astros System, 2006 Tri-City ValleyCats) was 1-4, LF Adam Loewen (Blue Jays System, 2003 Aberdeen IronBirds) was 0-3, 3B Shawn Bowman (Blue Jays System, 2003 Brooklyn Cyclones) went 1-4, and SS Jonathan Malo (Mets System, 2005/2006 Brooklyn Cyclones) was 0-2.

Tomorrow, the USA will complete its second round with a matchup against the top rated Cuban team, which is presently 4-1 in this round (6-1 overall).  Team Canada will hope to rebound against Puerto Rico.

ValleyCats Start To Stut

On Tuesday October 12th, the Tri-City ValleyCats will begin their 2010 NYPL Championship Trophy Tour at the Recovery Sports Grill at 235 Hoosick Street in Troy, NY.  The next planned event is November 4th at the Holiday Inn in Latham, NY during the National Kidney Foundation of Northeast New York's Chili Challenge.

Visitor to these events can take their photograph with the Trophy, enter to win a ValleyCats Championship Ring, and hang out with Mascots, SouthPaw and Rowdy.

Future dates will be made available at the team's website, http://www.tcvalleycats.com/.

  

USA Pulls Out A Win Against Venezuela

USA Baseball won its first two games of the second round in the COPABE 2010 Pan American/World Cup Qualifier.  On Friday night, they shutout Nicaragua 5-0, and pulled out a twelve inning, 6-3, victory against Venezuela this afternoon.

Atlanta Braves Prospect Todd Redmond (Williamsport Crosscutters, 2005) gave up 4 singles and stuck out 6 batters over his 7 scoreless innings to ensure his second victory of the Tournament.  Second baseman Cord Phelps (Cleveland Indians, 2008 Mahoning Valley Scrappers) went 2 for 4 with a double, 2 runs scored, and 2 RBI.  DH Brad Eldred (Colorado Rockies, 2002 Williamsport Crosscutters) went 0 for 4 with 1 RBI.  Catcher Erik Kratz (Pittsburgh Pirates, 2003/2004 Auburn Doubledays) went 1 for 3 with an RBI.  Shortstop Chase D'Arnaud (Pittsburgh Pirates, 2008 State College Spikes) went 0 for 1 with a run scored, a stolen base and 2 walks.  Justin De Fratus (Philadelphia Phillies, 2008 Williamsport Crosscutters), making his third appearance of the Tournament, held the Nicaraguan team to one hit in one scoreless inning.

With the victory, the USA went to 5-0 in the second round.  They were able to carry over their three wins against Group A teams that made it into the second round (Dominican Republic, Panama, Puerto Rico).  Now, after ensuring at least a top seven spot in the Tournament, the USA has earned a spot in the 2011 Pan American Games in Mexico.

In today's game, the USA and Venezuela were tied 2-2 after 11 innings.  The international extra-inning rule then went into effect.  This rule, which was created in 2008, allows the hitting team to place runners on first and second bases and start their inning with whichever batter it wants.  The USA scored 4 runs in the top of the 12th to take a 6-2 lead.  Venezuela was able to load the bases after the first batter walked.  Then, Team USA brought in Justing De Fratus who retired the next three batters to end the game and earned the team's first save of the Tournament.

Cord Phelps started at second base, and went 2-6 with a triple, and an RBI.  DH Brad Eldred went 0 for 3 with 3 walks and a stolen base.  Shortstop Chase D'Arnaud went 1 for 4 with a run scored and a walk.

With this victory, the USA improved to 7-0 for the Tournament and 5-0 in the second round.  The victory has guaranteed them a spot in the Final Four, which begins on October 12th.  Tomorrow, the USA, ranked 2nd in COPABE and the IBF plays Canada, and then finishes the next round against Cuba, the top ranked team in COPABE and the IBF.

Team USA Finishes Round 1 Undefeated

Last night, USA Baseball concluded its first round with a convincing 10-2 victory over Panama.  The win clinched first place in Group A of the COPABE Pan American/World Cup Qualifying Tournament being held in Puerto Rico.

Mike Trout, the highly regarded first year prospect of the California Angels, once again led the way offensively for the USA.  Royals prospect Danny Duffy earned the win by hurling 5 innings of one run ball.  For the NYPL Alumni, Brad Eldred (DH) went 2-5 with a home run and 3 RBI.  Chase D'Arnaud (SS) went 2-4 with a double, a triple, 2 runs scored, 1 walk, and one RBI.  Cord Phelps (2B) went 0-4 with a walk.  Justin De Fratus (RP) made his second appearance of these games and threw an inning of scoreless relief.

After Round 1, here are the NYPL Alumni Stats:

Chase D'Arnaud (SS,Pittsburg Pirates System; NYPL-State College, 2008):
4 GP,.412 Avg.(7-17),3 2B,1 3B,4 R,4 RBI,12 TB,.706 SLG,1 BB,2 K,7 PO,13 A,2 E

Brad Eldred (DH,Colorado Rockies System; NYPL-Williamsport Crosscutter, 2002):
5 GP,.381 Avg.(8-21),2 2B,1 3B,1 HR,4 RBI,15 TB,.714 SLG,1 BB,1 HBP,4 K

Erik Kratz (C,Pittsburgh Pirates System; NYPL-Auburn Doubledays, 2003,2004):
3 GP,.333 Avg.(4-12),2 2B, 3RBI,6TB,.500 SLG,1 HBP,2 K,22 PO, 1 E

Cord Phelps (2B,Cleveland Indians System: NYPL-Mahoning Valley Scrappers,2008):
4 GP,.188 Avg.(3-16),3 RBI,3 TB,.188 SLG,1 BB,3 K,5 PO,13 A,0 E

Todd Redmond (SP,Atlanta Braves System: NYPL-Williamsport Crosscutters,2005):
1 GS,1W-0L,3.18 ERA,5.2 IP,6 H,3 R,2 ER,1 BB,4 K

Justin De Fratus (RP,Philadelphia Phillies Systerm: NYPL-Williamsport Crosscutters,2008):
2 G,0W-0L,0.00 ERA,2.1 IP,2 H,1 R,0 ER,0 BB,1 K

In Group A, the final results of Round 1 had the USA in first with a 5-0 record.  The Dominican Republic (3-2) came in 2nd, Puerto Rico (3-2) came in 3rd, and Panama (3-2) came in 4th place.  Columbia, 1-4, and Aruba, 0-5, were eliminated.

In Group B, the completion of the first round had Cuba on top at 5-0.  Second place went to Venezuela, 4-1.  Canada, at 3-2, came in third, and Nicaragua was fourth at 2-3.  Argentina, 1-4, and the Dutch Antilles, 0-5, were elimiated.

Now, Team USA will take on all four of the remaining teams in Group B.  USA will take on Nicaragua on the 8th, Venezuela on the 9th, Canada on the 10th, and Cuba on the 11th.  At the end of the second round, the top four teams will then compete in the Medal Round, and the top 6 teams will qualify for the 2011 World Cup to be held sometime next fall.

Will Cyclones Manager Get To Lead The Mets?

First-year Brooklyn Cyclones Manager Wally Backman reportedly is one of the front-runners to succeed Jerry Manuel in managing the New York Mets.  In 2010, Backman guided the team to first place in the McNamara Division, a NYPL leading record of 51-24 and a first round playoff victory over the Jamestown Jammers.

Following the dismissal of the team's Manager and General Manager, Mets COO Jeff Wilpon was asked about Wally Backman potential candidacy and responded "I love Wally and I believe in Wally.  But first we have to hire a general manager, and we'll go from there".

Choosing Wally would be a bit of a risk, since he has not had any major league managerial experience.  However, he brings a well-known and fan-appreciated element of intensity to a team that has been regarded, rightly or wrongly, as passive these last several seasons. 

According to John Harper, writing in today's NY Daily News:

Backman would instill toughness, all right, and everywhere he has managed in the minors he has inspired great effort with his passion and his ability to relate to players. 

Recently Marlins second baseman Dan Uggla, who played for Backman in the minors several years ago, was quoted as saying, "I would have run through a brick wall for him."

Also, for a high spending team that is reprtedly looking to be more economical, Backman is a less expensive choice when compared to other high-profile and/or experienced candidates.

Wally Backman started his career as a first round draft pick of the New York Mets in 1977.  His minor league career began with a season at the Mets' NYPL affiliate in Little Falls.  The scrappy second baseman eventually made it up to the parent club in 1980 and stayed in Flushing until 1988.  He was an important part of the team's World Series Championship in 1986.  After leaving the Mets, Backman spent several years with the Twins, Pirates, Phillies, Braves, and Mariners before ending his playing days in 1993.

In 2002, Wally managed the Birmingham Barons (AA, Southern League) for the White Sox.  In 2004, he led the Diamondbacks' Advanced-A Lancaster Jethawks (California League) and was named "Minor League Manager of the Year" by the Sporting News.

At the beginning of November 2004, the Diamondbacks made Backman its suprise choice for Manager.  Over the next several days, reports documented his troubles with a 1999 DUI, a 2000 domestic dispute, and significant financial troubles.  On November 5th, Arizona fired him from his new job, and Backman was persona-non-grata with major league teams.

Wally began his managerial comeback with the South Georgia Peanuts of the independentt South Coast League, and followed that with a stint running the Joliet Jackhammers of the independent Northern League.  By 2009, the Mets were willing to give one of their most beloved playes a chance at redemption.  Initially hired to lead the team's Advanced A Florida State League team in St. Lucie, the ownership changed its mind and assigned Backman to the Brooklyn Cyclones for the 2010.

Since Backman's first season in the NYPL was so successful with his players, the fans, and the Mets front office, don't be surprised if Wally makes the biggest jump of all of the Cyclones in 2011.

USA Beats Dominican Republic, NYPL Alumni Lead The Way

Last night, USA Baseball improved their Group A record to 4-0 with an 8-3 victory over the Dominican Republic.  Former Cy Young Award winner Bartolo Colon started for the Dominican Republic and took the loss after surrendering 6 runs in 2 1/3 innings. 

For the NYPL Alumni, Indians prospect Cord Phelps (Mahoning Valley Scrappers, 2008) started, again, at second base, and went 1-3 with 2 runs scored, 1 RBI, and 2 walks.  Designated Hitter Brad Eldred (Williamsport Crosscutters, 2002) went 1-3 with 2 runs scored, 1 RBI, and 1 walk.  Shortstop Chase D'Arnaud (State College Spikes, 2008) went 1-4 with 2 RBI, and starting catcher Erik Kratz (Auburn Doubledays, 2003 and 2004) had 1 RBI.

For the Tournament, D'Arnaud is batting .455, Eldred is hitting .400, Kratz is at .364, and Phelps is hitting .263.

The Dominican Republic team had some NYPL Alumni, as well.  Indians prospects and Columbus Clipper Jose Constanza (Mahoning Valley Scrappers, 2005) was the Designated Hitter and went 2-4 with a run, an RBI, and a walk.  Former Tigers and Mets prospect Victor Mendez (Oneonta Tigers, 2002) was the backup catcher and had one walk.  Former MLB pitcher Hector Carrasco (Pittsfield Mets, 1991) pitched 0.2 innings of relief, giving up one hit, one earned run, walking one, and hitting one batter.

After the game, USA was in first place in Group A.  Columbia (1-4) and Aruba (0-4) were elimnated from the Group, so the remaining four teams (USA, Panama, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic) will head into the second round.  In the next round, each of the Group A teams will play the four teams from Group B before determining the four teams for the Semi-Finals.

Tonight, Team USA has its last game of the first round against 2nd place Panama (ranked 9th in COPABE and 16th in IBF).  After tomorrow's final games of the first round, the remaining teams will be re-seeded for the second round starting on October 8th.

Ballpark Digest Looking For Front-Office Nominees

Ballpark Digest is a website that focuses on the business and political side of baseball organizations and stadiums.  Yesterday, the editors of the site wrote that they will be announcing their Organization of the Year, New Ballpark of the Year, and Renovated Ballpark of the Year later this week.

The writers have asked their readers to submit nominations in several other categories, including Marketing Campaign of the Year, Logo of the Year, Promotion of the Year, Broadcaster of the Year, Executive of the Year, and Lifetime Achievement.

Readers can take a look at the various NYPL members to find worthy nominees for each of the categories, and contact Ballpark Digest officials at editors@augustpublications.com by noon next Monday, October 11th.

Please feel free to discuss any nominees in the comments section for others to consider.

Support NYPL Players and Teams In 2010 MiLBY Awards

Today, Minor League Baseball (MiLB) announced its finalists for Best Starter in each of the different classifications.  The NYPL, Northwest League, Appalachian League, Gulf Coast League, Pioneer League, and Arizona Summer League are grouped together in the Short Season category.  Of the 5 nominated starters, 2 spent the entire season in the NYPL where each attained All-Star status, while one was promoted to the League at season's end.

Yohan Almonte and Angel Cuan represent the Brooklyn Cyclones (NY Mets), and Enny Romero played most of the season for the GCL Rays and had one start for the Hudson Valley Renegades in September.

Yohan Amonte (2007 Non-Drafted Free Agent, NY Mets, 20 years old):
After spending 2009 with the GCL Mets and Kingsport Mets (Appalachian League), Yohan was promoted to Brookly for 2010.  He went 8-4 with a NYPL leading 1.91 ERA (19 ER/89.2 IP).  He walked 15, stuckout 60, had a 1.34 GO/AO (ground-out/fly-out ratio), and held opponents to a .207 batting average.

Angel Cuan (2007 or 2008 Non-Drafted Free Agent, NY Mets, 21 years old):
Angel spent most of the 2009 season pitching for the Kingsport Mets.  By the end of the season, he had earned a promotion up to Brooklyn for 2 late season starts.  This year, after 3 early relief appearances with the St. Lucie Mets (Advanced A Florida State League), he returned to Brooklyn in time to start the NYPL season.  Angel proceeded to go 5-1 in 14 starts and was second in the NYPL with a 2.03 (18 ER/79.2 IP) ERA.  Angle also had 17 walks, 64 strikeouts, 0.92 GO/AO, and held hitters to a .230 average.

Enny Romero (2008 Non-Drafted Free Agent, Tampa Bay Rays, 19 years old):
After a 2009 campaign where Enny went 2-4 with a 4.81 with the GCL Rays, he started the season with the Princeton Rays of the Appalachian League.  Over 13 starts for Princeton, he went 4-1 with a 1.95 ERA (15 ER/69.1 IP).  He walked 14, struckout 72, had a 1.78 GO/AO ratio, and held batters to a .204 average.  On September 1st, Enny was promoted to Hudson Valley, where he threw 5.0 innings of one-run ball to pick-up his first NYPL victory.

The voting can be found at the Minor League Baseball website and is open until Monday, October 11th. 

Also, voting will be continuing until Wednesday morning for the first round of the 2010 Promotions of the Year.  In the Best Giveaway category, the NYPL is represented by the Brooklyn Cyclones for their "Ike Davis Bobble Legs".  Brooklyn also is a nominee in the Best Theme Night for its "Jersey? Sure! Night".  The Lowell Spinners, the 2010 NYPL Leo Pinckney Award recipient for promotions, is nominated in this category for its "50 Years Of Bubble Wrap Event".  The Vermont Lake Monsters are nominated for Best Celebrity Appearances for Bill "Spaceman" Lee and Dennis "Oil Can" Boyd.  Fortunately or unfortunately, the NYPL did not have a nominee in the Miscellaneous Category.

The four category finalists will then go head-to-head-to-head-to-head (or legs) to determine the fans choice for Best of the Year.

Later this month, MiLB will be taking votes for Best Hitter, Best Reliever, Best Team, and Best Game.

NYPL Alumni Continue Helping USA Baseball

Last night, USA Baseball defeated Aruba 14-0 in a seven inning contest.  The game was shortened due to the international 10-run rule.  The victory, over the 53rd ranked nation in the International Baseball Federation (15th rank in COPABE), puts the US at 2-0 in the Group A round-robin tournament.

While Kansas City Royals prospect Everett Teaford was the star of the night, pitching one hit ball and striking out 10 batters in 5 innings, former NYPL players helped the team's cause.  Starting 2nd Baseman Cord Phelps (2008, Mahoning Valley) went 2-5 with 1 run scored and 2 RBI, while Designated Hitter Brad Eldred (2002, Williamsport) went 1 for 4.

This afternoon, USA Baseball was victorious over Columbia 13-6.  The USA, ranked 2nd in the IBF (2nd in COPABE), collected 19 hits and each starter collected at least one hit and one run.  Shortstop Chase D'Arnaud (2008, State College) led team USA going 3-5 with 1 double, 2 runs scored, and one RBI.  Other NYPL alumni getting into today's action were Designated Hitter Brad Eldred, who went 2-5 with one run scored and 1 RBI, and Catcher Erik Kratz (2003,2004, Auburn Doubledays) who went 2-5 with 1 double, 1 run scored and 2 RBI.

The USA team is now 3-0 heading into tomorrow's game against the 13th ranked (7th in COPABE) Dominican Republic team.  After that, the final game of the first round takes place on Wednesday as the USA  takes on Panama (16th ranked in the IBF, 9th in COPABE). 

From October 7-11, the top 4 teams from Group A and Group B (Canada, Cuba, Venezuela, Netherlands Antilles, and Argentina) will meet.  The semi-finals will take place with the first and fourth place teams meeting in one game, and the second and third teams will battle in the second match.  The bronze and gold medal games will then take place on October 13.

NYPL Alumni Help Team USA Qualify For 2011 Pan Am Games

From October 1-10, USA Baseball is participating in the COPABE (Confederacion Panamericana de Beisbol) Pan American/World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Puerto Rico.  Of the 27 nations that are members of COPABE, 12 have made it to this month's tournament.  The top eight teams will advance to the 2011 Pan American Games competition in Mexico next October, and the top six teams will qualify for the 2011 IABF World Cup scheduled for the fall of 2011.

Currently, the USA is 2nd in the COPABE rankings behind Cuba.  Last year, USA Baseball's World Cup team went 14-1 and defeated Cuba in the finals.

The USA team is composed of 25 players not on the 40-man rosters of MLB teams.  While none of the players spent time in the New York-Penn League in the 2010 season, six team members are NYPL Alumni:

Chase D'Arnaud,  INF (SS), Pittsburgh Pirates (parent club):
Chase was drafted in the 4th round of the 2008 Amateur Entry Draft.  Later that season, he joined the 2008 State College Spikes, where he hit .286 with 10 doubles, 5 triples, and 1 home run.  In addition to being named a 2008 mid-season NYPL All-Star, he was a 2009 South Atlantic League (SAL) Mid-Season All-Star, and a 2010 Eastern League All Star.  At the Eastern League (EL) All-Star game in Harrisburg, Chase was named the Top Star due to his 7th inning grand slam.

Justin De Fratus, Relief Pitcher, Philadelphia Phillies:
Justin was selected in the 11th round of the 2007 Draft.  As a member of the 2008 Williamsport Crosscutters, Justing started 14 games, went 6-5 with a 3.67 ERA, and led the NYPL in innings pitched (83.1).  Justin was named a 2009 SAL Mid-Season All-Star as a member of the Lakewood Blue Claws, and a 2010 Florida State League (FSL) Mid-Season All-Star while playing for the Clearwater Threshers.  Justin ended the season pitching for the Phillies EL affiliate in Reading.

Brad Eldred, INF (1st Base), Colorado Rockies:
Brad was originally chosen by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the sixth round of the 2002 MLB Draft.  He played for the 2002 Williamsport Crosscutters where he earned All-Star honors by hitting .283 with 22 doubles, 3 triples, 10 home runs, and 48 RBI.  He was a Carolina League All-Star in 2004 with Lynchburg, and made it to the Pirates in 2007.  In 2008, Brad was signed by the Chicago White Sox, and was named an International League (IL) All-Star on the strength of a 35 home run/100 RBI season.  After a down 2009 campaign with the Washington Nationals' IL Syracuse affiliate, he signed with the Colorado Rockies in 2010.  While playing for the Rockies' Pacific Coast League (PCL) affiliate in Colorado Springs, Brad once again earned All-Star status hitting .264, 27 doubles, 30 home runs, and 84 RBI.

Erik Kratz, Catcher, Pittsburgh Pirates:
Erik was selected in the 29th round of the 2002 MLB Draft by the Toronto Blue Jays.  He spent parts of the 2003 and 2004 seasons with the NYPL's Auburn Doubledays.  Erik hit .312 in 49 games in 2003, and hit .308 in 10 games in 2004.  By 2008, he had been promoted to the Blue Jays' AAA IL affiliate in Syracuse.  In 2009, Erik signed with the Pirates, made the IL All-Star team with Indianapolis, and was named the Top Star at the IL/PCL All-Star Game.  This past season, Erik, once again, was named to the IL All-Star team.

Cord Phelps, INF (2B), Cleveland Indians:
Cord, a Stanford University student, was taken in the third round of the 2008 MLB Draft by Cleveland.  He played 35 games that season with the NYPL's Mahoning Valley Scrappers posting a .312 average.   In 2009, he was promoted to the Indians' Carolina League (Adv. A) affiliate in Kinston where he earned Mid-Season and Post-Season honors.  This year, Cord was moved to the EL (AA) team in Akron for the first part of the season.  After hitting .296 in his first 53 games, he was sent to the Tribe's AAA (IL) team in Columbus where he hit .317 with 20 doubles, 4 triples, and 6 home runs and helped the Clippers win the IL and AAA Championships.

Todd Redmond, Starting Pitcher, Atlanta Braves:
Todd was originally selected in the 40th round of the 2003 MLB Draft by Kansas City, but did not sign.  The following year he was chosen in the 39th round of the 2004 MLB Draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates.  He played for the Williamsport Crosscutters in 2005 where he went 1-2 in 14 starts, had the NYPL's second-best ERA (1.98), and was named a Mid-Season and Post-Season All-Star.  By 2007, Todd had made it to the Pirates' AA EL affiliate in Altoona.  In 2008, he was traded to the Braves for Tyler Yates, moved to the Braves' AA affiliate in Mississippi, and was named the Most Outstanding Pitcher of the Southern League (SL).  The last two seasons, he has been with the Braves' AAA team in Gwinnett where he is 16-16 with a 4.33 ERA and 248 strikeouts in 307.2 innings pitched.

Yesterday, USA Baseball opened up the tournament action with a 7-4 victory against the host team, Puerto Rico.  Brad Eldred (DH) went 2-4 with a double, triple, and run scored.  Erik Kratz was the starting catcher and went 2-4 with a double and a run scored.  Chase D'Arnaud played shortstop and went 1-4, while Cord Phelps played second base and went 0-4.  Todd Redmond started for the US team, pitched 5.2 innings, gave up 3 runs (2 earned), and earned the win.  Justin De Fratus pitched the final 1.1 innings, allowing 1 unearned run.

Tonight, USA (1-0) takes on Aruba in Ponce, Puerto Rico.

The Spinners Find Off-Field Success

The 2010 campaign was a difficult one for the Lowell Spinners, the NYPL affiliate of the Boston Red Sox.  The team was last in the Stedler Divison with a 24-50 record and had the lowest winning percentage (.324) in the entire New York-Penn League.  However, they have managed to have success in other aspects of their organization.  In addition to setting a record attendance, the team was recently awarded the Leo Pinckney Promotional Award and the team's Corporate Controller, Priscilla Harbour, was named the Joan Weber Female Executive of the Year in the NYPL.

For the first time in the Spinners' history, the franchise passed the 200,000 mark in attendance.  The mark of 201,512 supassed the previous high of 199,197 set in 2008.  For the season, the team averaged 5,446, which was the fourth highest in the NYPL.  While this total figure does include the 22,940 fans who went to watch the Spinners play in Boston at the Red Sox "Futures At Fenway" event, it does not detract from the overall success of this franchise.

In 2008, the NYPL re-named its Promotional Award in honor of Leo Pinckney, the former editor of the Auburn Citizen, the 1998 "King Of Minor League Baseball", and former NYPL President (1984-1993).  This year, the front office of the Spinners took home the Pinckney Award for its varied and successful Promotional Schedule.   Said team General Manager and Executive Vice President Tim Bawmann, "Our mantra in the office is 'Every Night Is Opening Night'.  We recognize whether it is game one or game 38, it is the first game for someone and we aim to provide that special Opening Day buzz at each of our 38 home games. 

Bawman continued, "In a tough economy we recognize the importance families place on making the most of their entertainment dollars.  We want fans to come to the park and leave not caring whether the Spinners won or lost, rather commenting on what a great time they had the park."  Now that the Spinners have earned the Pinckney Award, it is eligible to compete with the representatives of the other affiliated minor leagues for the Larry McPhail Award at the Minor League Baseball Meetings in Orlando this December.

In 2009, the NYPL named its "Female Executive of the Year" in honor of Joann Weber, wife of Lowell's owner Drew Weber, who lost her life to pancreatic cancer in 2006.  Nicknamed the "Queen of the Ballpark", Mrs. Weber handled many of the large and small day-to-day and game-to-game responsibilities for the Spinners.  Priscilla Harbour, the Spinners' Corporate Controller, is in her 13th year with Lowell and tirelessly handles the many transactions and accounitng issues related to the organization.  This is the first time that Ms. Harbour has won the Weber Award.

Tim Bawmann had this to say about Ms. Harbour, "This is a well deserved honor for Priscilla.  Few people understand the amount of time and effort that goes into the behind the scenes operations of a sports organization and Priscilla has been the key component to the Spinners for many years."  Priscilla will now be representing the NYPL in attempting to be named Minor League Baseball's overall "Female Executive of the Year" this December.

While fans can hope that the Spinners improve on their record in 2011, at least they are aware of their tremendous support for the team and the excellent administrative staff working behind the scenes.

A's Top Choice In The Northwest League

Now that the Oakland Athletics have affiliated with the Vermont Lake Monsters, it is time to welcome them into the NYPL family.  Yesterday, Baseball America (BA) released its Top 20 NYPL Prospects.  Today, BA has released its Top 20 Prospects of the Northwest League (NWL), an 8-team Short Season A League, which is similar to the NYPL.

Oakland's Michael Choice (Center Field) was listed as the League's second overall prospect.  Choice was the 10th selection in the 2010 MLB Draft out of the University Texas-Arlington and negotiated a 2 million dollar signing bonus.  After spending 3 games in the Arizona Summer League, he was promoted to the Vancouver Canadians, where he played the next 27 regular-season games.  Following the completion of the first round NWL Playoffs, Choice was again promoted to the team's Class A Midwest League affiliate, Kane County Cougars, for its playoffs.  Now that the regular season and the playoffs are over, Michael will close out his first professional season by traveling to Phoenix for the Athletics' Instructional Legaue games.

Choice's Stats in Vancouver:

G   AVG.   AB   H   2B   3B   HR   RBI   TB   BB   SO   SB   CS   OBP   SLG   OPS
27 .284    102   29   10     2      7     26    64    15     43    6      1     .388   .627    1.016

Andy Seiler of MLB Bonus Baby wrote about Choice in his Pre-Draft Profile:

A monster year as a junior has only elevated his status as a potential big-time bat, and the tools, seen as fringy before the spring, started to receive more favorable ratings as the season went on. His best tools involve his bat, as he’s an above-average hitter with plus-plus raw power, and his speed rates as above-average, as well, giving him big offensive potential. He’s a little more raw as a fielder, and the majority of scouts think he’ll shift over to a corner outfield spot as a pro, as his range is more average than true center field range, and his arm is solid-average. He has the potential to be an all-star player due to his bat, and while he’s not a huge ceiling player, he’s a solid first round option.

Baseball America Notes 2010 NYPL Top 20 Prospects

Yesterday, Baseball America (BA) published its list of the Top 20 Prospects in the 2010 New York-Penn League.  The list is determined by polling scouts and league managers.  For a player to be considered for the list, he must have been with the team for at least one-third of a season.  Position players must have one plate appearance for each game.  Pitchers must have thrown for at least one-third of an inning in each appearance, and relievers must have had a minimum of 10 appearances.

According to those polled, the NYPL had a down year, since there were not as many star-studded players as in the past.  According to Connecticut Tigers Manager Howard Bushsong,

"The New York-Penn League wasn't as good as it was last year. Especially the pitching—it wasn't even close. And there wasn't a position player who blew you away like Westmoreland last year, and no (Alex) Colome like last year that made you go, 'Wow.' I saw some good players, but I didn't see the 'wow' factor we saw last year."

Despite Mr. Bushsong's assessment, there was certainly plenty of top-flight talent on display in the NYPL this past season.  Here is the list of players from BA:

1.  Carlos Perez, Catcher, Auburn Doubledays (Blue Jays)
2.  Jake Thompson, Right Hand Starting Pitcher, Hudson Valley Renegades (Rays)
3.  Cory Vaughn, Outfield, Brooklyn Cyclones (Mets)
4.  Marcell Ozuna, Outfield, Jamestown Jammers (Marlins)
5.  Roman Mendez, Right Hand Starting Pitcher, Lowell Spinners (Red Sox):
          traded during the season to Texas for Jarrod Saltalamaccia
6.  Zach Von Rosenberg, Right Hand Starting Pithcer, State College Spikes (Pirates)
7.  Kolbrin Vitek, Third Base, Lowell Spinners (Red Sox)
8.  Nick Longmire, Outfield, Batavia Muckdogs (Cardinals)
9.  Cesar Hernandez, Second Base, Williamsport Crosscutters (Phillies)
10. Colton Cain, Left Hand Starting Pitcher, State College Spikes (Pirates)
11. Darrell Ceciliani, Outfield, Brooklyn Cyclones (Mets)
12. Domingo Santana, Outfield, Williamsport Crosscutters (Phillies)
13. Bryce Brentz, Outfield, Lowell Spinners (Red Sox)
14. Mike Kvasnicka, Outfield/Third Base/Catcher Tri-City Valley Cats (Astros)
15. Aaron Altherr, Outfield, Williamsport Crosscutters (Phillies)
16. Drew Hutchinson, Starting Right Hand Pitcher, Auburn Doubledays (Blue Jays)
17. Zachk Dodson, Left Handed Starting Pitchers, State College Spikes (Pirates)
18. Daniel Webb, Right Handed Starting Pitchers, Auburn Doubledays (Blue Jays)
19. Josue Carreno, Right Handed Starting Pitchers, Connecticut Tigers (Tigers)
20. Madison Younginer, Right Handed Starting Pitchers, Lowell Spinners (Red Sox)

Note: For those people with a subscption to Basebal America, you can go to the home page to find a scouting report on these 20 players, as well as a New York-Penn Leage Chat Room held earlier today.

MiLB Names Players of the Postseason

Today, Minor League Baseball (MiLB) named its "Players of the Postseason" for the recently concluded 2010 Minor League Playoffs.  In the New York-Penn League, Darrell Ceciliani of the Brooklyn Cyclones (Mets) was named Best Position Player and Andrew Moss of the Batavia Muckdogs (Cardinals) was named Best Pitcher. 

For Ceciliani, the Mets' 4th round pick in 2009, this award is added to his NYPL Batting Championship (.351) and All-Star start in Center Field.  As well as leading the league in average, Darrell was first in hits (95), at-bats (271), runs (56), and triples (12). 

Andrew Moss, the Cardinals' 35th round pick in 2009 and the 2009 Appalachian League ERA leader (1.32), adds this recognition to his earlier award as NYPL Pitcher of the Week for the period of June 28-July 4, 2010.  In that week, Moss threw 7 innings of no-hit ball against Mahoning Valley.

From Minor League Baseball:

Darrell Ceciliani, Brooklyn

          .474/.565/.579, 9-for-19, 2 2B, 0 3B, 0 HR, 2 RBI, 6 RS, 4 BB, 2 K, 4 SB, 1 CS

New York-Penn League batting champion Darrell Ceciliani, who was picked by the Mets in the fourth round of last year's Draft, had plenty of hits left in the tank for the postseason. He had two hits in each of the three games Brooklyn played against Jamestown in the first round of the playoffs. In the series vs. the Jammers, he stole a base in the first game, two in the second game and another in the third game. After he went 0-for-4 in Game 1 of the Finals, and he was 3-for-4 with a double and a run scored in decisive Game 2.

Andrew Moss, Batavia

          0-1, 1.00 ERA, 1 G, 1 GS, 1 CG, 9 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 HR, 0 HBP, 0 BB, 5 K

Andrew Moss did what he could, but his Muckdogs were eliminated in his lone postseason start. Moss, a late-round pick by the Cardinals in last year's Draft, gave up one run on four hits while striking out five without walking anybody over the course of his complete game against the Tri-City ValleyCats, who went on to win the New York-Penn League championship. Moss was 8-2 with a 3.35 ERA in the regular season.

Will the NYPL Soon Include The Pfizer Phillies?

This past Tuesday, the Turk's Head Stadium Alliance (THSA) announced a verbal agreement with Pfizer Pharmaceuticals and the Borough of West Chester (PA) for the purchase of a 30-acre plot of land that will lead to the building of a new 4,000 - 5,000 seat baseball stadium.  The new park, located at the former site of Wyeth Laboratories and owned by Pfizer, ideally would be ready in time for the 2013 season.

There are, however, several hurdles to clear before the stadium becomes a reality.  The cost of the project is expected to be around $40 million, with half coming from state funding and the other half from local sources.  According to Al Kelly, a West Chester retiree involved with the project, the THSA has a local source who will match a State grant.  As of yet, the State of Pennsylvania has not committed any monies to this endeavor.

In addition to the announcement of the possible purchase, the THSA stated that they have a verbal agreement with the Philadelphia Phillies to place a Class A team in the new stadium.  The stadium, which would be owned by the West Chester Redevelopment Authority, would lease the park to the Phillies, who would run the facility and the franchise.  Later that day, the Phillies denied any such commitment to this project.  It was confirmed by a Phillies spokeswoman that team President, David Montgomery, met with representatives of the THSA, but did not promise anything other than general support.

If these large financial issues can be resolved and the Phillies actually have promised to buy and move a Class A team into a new West Chester stadium, which of its three Class A affiliates would it be?  Their Advanced A (Florida State League) team, which is owned by the parent club, is located at the team's Spring Training Complex in Clearwater, Florida.  A move away from its Southern home to Pennsylvania and a transfer to the Carolina League would be possible but not likely or necessary. 

The Phillies Low A (South Atlantic League) team is located in nearby Lakewood, NJ, and is not owned by the team.  The two-time defending SAL Champions, have been the top SAL draw in each of its 10 years.  While the transfer would be an easier logistical move than the Clearwater Threshers, it would not seem likely that the Phillies would be able to convince the owners of this franchise to move such an economically successful team.  It would also seem to be an expensive option for the team to buy out the Blue Claws ownership, as well.

This would leave the Short Season A (NYPL) affiliate in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, which is not owned by the Phillies.  According to MiLB's Benjamin Hill, "the Crosscutters play at 84-year-old Bowman Field, a charming but undeniably ancient ballpark that fits snugly into a residential section of small-market Williamsport".  Since the Phillies would be able to keep a team within the NYPL, move from a small market to a much larger Philadelphia market, and reap the benefits of full franchise ownership, it would seem more likely for the Phillies to purchase either the Williamsport, Batavia, or Vermont franchises and move it into West Chester if the new stadium project becomes a reality.

As THSA member and former West Chester mayor Dick Yoder said, "There is a lot of work that has to be done. This is just the beginning."  However, this is something, for NYPL fans including those in the smaller markets, to keep their eyes on in the months and years ahead.

A's get the last seat in the NYPL musical chairs

On Thursday, the Oakland Athletics, as expected, signed a two-year Player Development Contract (PDC) with the Vermont Lake Monsters.  For the previous 10 years, Oakland had fielded a Short Season A team with Vancouver of the Northwest League.  Vermont, previously, had a 17 year relationship with the Montreal Expos/Washington Nationals.

On Tuesday, the Nationals left Vermont and affiliated with the Auburn Doubledays.  The Nationals stated that there was a desire to bring their minor league teams within closer proximity and lessen the amount of travel for its scouts.  However true those reasons may be, the team was also dismayed at the unsafe and substandard conditions of the facilities at Vermont's home field, Centennial Field.

Centennial Field, which is owned by the University of Vermont and rented to team owner, Ray Pecor, Jr., is presently undergoing an engineering study to determine what modifications can be made to the stadium.  According to Mr. Pecor, he believes that Major League Baseball will ultimately force him to move his team to a better facility.

Last season, the Connecticut Defenders in Norwich, CT lost its AA Eastern League team to Richmond, Virginia.  The NYPL then relocated the Oneonta Tigers to Norwich.  While Oneonta, a member of the NYPL for 44 years, would have Damaschke Field available for an affiliated team, its low attendence (23,521 in 2009), unfavorable local demographics, and economic slow down, would not seem to be favorable for a return of a NYPL team.

For now, the A's are willingly or unwillingly in Burlington with Ray Pecor Jr.'s Vermont Lake Monsters.  We'll see where the future will lead .....

Nationals agree to 2 year deal with Auburn

Last week, the Toronto Blue Jays ended their 10 year affiliation with the Auburn Doubledays in order to go to Vancouver of the Short Season (A) Northwest League.  Tonight, the Nationals/Expos have ended their 17 year relationship with Vermont.

This evening, the Washington Nationals and Auburn Doubledays have announced the signing of a two-year Player Development Contract (PDC), which will cover the 2011 and 2012 seasons.  According to Ben Gossling of MASN Sports, the 35 mile distance between AAA Syracuse and Short Season A Auburn will make it easier for the scouts to travel between the affiliates.

Nationals Press Release:

"We are delighted to add Auburn to the Nationals' family," said Kasten. "This agreement again narrows the footprint of our Minor League system, and starting next summer, Auburn and the Doubledays' fan base will get their first glimpse at the rewards reaped from both our scouting and player development systems."

The Nationals have again compacted the geographical footprint of its affiliates. By partnering with Auburn, the Nationals' NY-P League affiliate is now closer to the nation's capital and just 35 miles west of Syracuse, the Nationals' Triple-A International League affiliate.

Looking at Baseball America's PDC Chart, there are expiring Short Season A-Contracts at Aberdeen, Jamestown, and Vermont of the NYPL, and Yakima of the Northwest League. The teams without a deal are Baltimore, Florida, Oakland, and Arizona. Most people expect the Orioles and Marlins to sign with Aberdeen and Jamestown respectively. The same is true for Arizona and Yakima, which would send the A's to Burlington.

It appears that scout travel distance does not mean as much to the A's as it does to the Nationals.

Batavia lives to see another day... And keeps the Cards, as well.

Earlier today, the Batavia Muckdogs and St. Louis Cardinals announced a new two-year Player Development Contract (PDC).  The Muckdogs became the Cardinals' Short Season (A) Affiliate in the 2007 season, and this agreement will extend the relationship until the completion of the 2012 season.  Additionally, Red Wing Management, LLC reportedly will continue to operate the Muckdogs.

The Muckdogs are owned by the non-profit organization, Genesee County Baseball Club (GCBC).  Three  years ago, the GCBC faced $150,000 in debt.  The members of the GCBC asked Red Wing Management (owners of the Rochester Red Wings of the AAA International League) to pay off the debt and operate the Batavia franchise.  In August, the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle reported that the team has lost close to $400,000 over the previous two seasons and will be losing anywhere up to $140,000 this year.  As a result, the two groups are looking to sell the team for the going NYPL rate of $4 million.

The agreement between GCBC and Red Wing Management calls for Red Wing to net 5% of the total sale price for each year they operate the Muckdogs.  If the team does sell for $4 million next season than Red Wing will earn $800,000.

The huge economic debt, low team sponsorship, and low fan attendence (Batavia is lowest in the NYPL at 1,016 fans per game, while Brooklyn leads the League with 7,147), had caused people to speculate that Red Wing Management would get out of their partnership with GCBC and the Cardinals would seek an affiliation with another team.  Today's news puts a rest to those stories for now.