Superb!

Ethan Martin with a SUPERB game!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

The IronPigs won their fourth straight last night by a 4-1 score at Coca Cola Park.  The story was the pitching:  Ethan Martin was pounding the strike zone early with his fastball running 92-94 on the stadium gun, touching 96 once.  He gave up a couple hard hits during those first few innings–some were caught, and some should have been caught.  By the third inning he was mixing in the curve and the change more, and was not giving up contact at all.

Mike Stutes, returning to form
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Diekman again Dominant
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

But Ethan threw a lot of pitches, and that meant that the bullpen was going to be called upon to come through once again.  Since Coach Burris gave them ‘what for’ the other day about giving up walks, they’ve given no quarter–and no free passes.  Last night, Mike Stutes and Jake Diekman came through with two clean innings and a ninth with a double only, respectively.  Stutes’ last three outings have been dominant and he’s been pitching more than one inning each time.  Diekman has regained control and is re-emerging as a lefty option for the Phillies bullpen when needed.  It’s really good to see both of these guys return to form, as we’ve seen them pitch this well in the past.

–

Castro game winner!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Look! He does it again!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner

In case you missed it, the IronPigs won in dramatic fashion–twice–thanks to a Leandro Castro walk-off–twice–Saturday and Sunday.  Starting pitchers in those games were Tom Cochran on Saturday, and Adam Morgan on Sunday.  While not dominant, both pitched well and kept the team in the game with an opportunity to win late.  And both times the bullpen held Indianapolis scoreless to give the ‘Pigs’ bats a chance.  Cochran had been 0-3 at Reading since having been activated from extended Spring Training, and came to the IronPigs in exchange for struggling reliever Justin Friend.  Morgan was coming off his weakest outing of the year, and wasn’t always sharp, but did enough to help the team get the win.  This capped off the Indy series with a three-out-of-four win.  That is significant, as Indy had the best record in the International League when the series began.

Young Adam Morgan continues to develop
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Not to be outdone, the SteelHawks also managed a dramatic win Sunday evening.  They were down by 10 late in the fourth quarter, got a fortunate call on a potential fumble, and managed a last minute touchdown.  The defense was able to prevent a winning field goal by Columbus and the offense added another TD at the buzzer.  It was nice to feel the satisfaction of a dramatic win as opposed to the dramatic losses we’ve suffered at times this season. There are two more home games this season.  I’d encourage you to get out to one if you have the chance.  My youngest was at the game for the first time this past weekend, and really had a good time.  ”It’s better than hockey,” he says.

So where’s the Chicken Dinner?  It all started Saturday morning as I took time off to help produce over 400 chicken dinners for a fundraiser.  Since then, I can’t stop saying, “winner, winner, chicken dinner.”  Thanks Las Vegas.

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Odds and Ends and Roster Notes

As I mentioned above, Tom Cochran was added from Reading in exchange for Justin Friend, to finally fill Jon Pettibone’s vacant starter’s spot.  The move left Reading down TWO starters with Brody Colvin’s balky hamstring.  Reading added a free agent starter, lefty Greg Smith, who had been in the International League with Scranton and Pawtucket in 2011.

Zach Miner’s done well in all roles, lately
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

 

As we detailed yesterday, we’ll likely lose another starter to the Phillies by Friday to take Halladay’s spot.  My guess is Tyler Cloyd, in which case we’ll know by Wednesday as that would be his scheduled start.  I would presume that Zach Miner would return to the starting role or at least continue his half-and-half with Cesar Jimenez.  Miner has extensive experience as a starter, and has pitched well lately.  If it were up to me, I’d go ahead and get him stretched out for starting again.  I know it’s thought to be a shorter path to the Phillies as a reliever, but you never know the way things have been going up there, and with the resurgence of De Fratus and Stutes with the ‘Pigs, starter could be valuable as well.  Also, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Savery stay up (he was called to make the immediate fill-in for Halladay’s spot on the roster) as a lefty reliever, and have Horst return.   Horst hasn’t done well, and does have two options, I believe.  We’ll see if my prediction about Brian Bass’ phone ringing comes true, soon, too.

Joe Savery deserves to stay with the Phillies
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Andres Blanco remains on the DL in Florida.  In passing, Matt Provence said on the radio the other day that it is not likely he’ll play this year.  At the Horn and Bell, we’re searching for more information and confirmation as of this writing.  Matt Tolbert was removed from the IronPigs DL roster and added to Clearwater.  He played one game 4/24, then was added to the Threshers’ 7-day DL.  His status is unknown at this time as well.

Welcome to the IronPigs, Humberto Quintero!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Finally, Humberto Quintero somewhat surprisingly passed through waivers (I thought the Yankees would grab him) and just as surprisingly (I thought he’d opt for free-agency) accepted his assignment to AAA.  Once he reported to the IronPigs this past weekend, Tyson Gillies was moved to Reading to make room.  I think we’ll see Tyson back here if he can stay healthy and gain some confidence in his new swing.  I thought his approach at the plate was good; just some bad luck and not always getting the ball squared up.  It was fortunate to get another catcher, though, as Tommy Joseph is currently nursing a mild concussion.  I imagine they could even put him on the 7-day DL if they needed the space (Bass?).

Get Well Soon, Tommy
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Out by a mile! Nice tag Tommy!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

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What’s Next?

The ‘Pigs continue their series with Louisville tonight with Tyler Cloyd bobbleheads.  Get there early if you must have one.  They always go fast, and I think he’ll soon be a Phillie again.  Could he get promoted on his own bobblehead day?  Golly, that would be something.

BJ Rosenberg is on the mound tonight.  I had mentioned before that his pitching looked less “violent” to me this year as compared with last year.  I thought I saw some of that return in his last start, but ultimately he didn’t do well.  Here’s hoping he returns to form as some of the others have of late.  If we didn’t need starters so badly, I’d even propose moving him back to the ‘pen temporarily–but there’s no time for that now.  Go get them, BJ!

Wednesday we’ll find out about our rotation; then Thursday is the second of the 2013 Education Days, as Tom Cochran takes the mound.  The IronPigs will head out on their first southern road trip following the game, to Durham and Norfolk.  You’ll see guys like Richie T and Mike Fontenot with the Bulls, and Kyle Hudson with the Tides, if you’re watching on MiLB.TV.

–

As always, photos are here thanks to the hard work and expertise of Cheryl Pursell.  Here are some additional photos from recent games:

Ruf Rakes!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Pete Orr is heating up!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Ride the J-Train! J-Mitch goes big fly!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Cesar, the forgotten. All he does it hit!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Justin De Fratus brings the heat
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Big Gerrit Cole, soon to be a Pittsburgh Pirate
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

 

Thanks all,

See you at the park,

@Kram209

Talking Food with the IronPigs: NoiseNation TV

We had the opportunity to do a little media work the other day.  DiPro and I had just spent the noon hours down in Reading for their Education Day on Thursday, then back to Allentown to cover the IronPigs.  You can see that I got a little sun.  Perhaps I’m going to need some make-up work if this is going to continue.  Or, I could just ask Cheryl to put some soft-focus on me.  Leaving me off altogether is another option, if I’d only shut up and let the players talk.  Crimony.  Pay no attention to the goofy guy in the NoiseNation polo, and here’s some stuff from Josh Fields and Tyson Gillies–remember, food is something our bodies need anyway:

Asking Josh about FireHouse Subs, and what makes a great sandwich:

We heard via Twitter that Tyson Gillies had been grilling on the off day, and I wanted to ask him about it:

Credits:  I’ve got to thank Matt Sutor from the IronPigs Media Department for his help arranging our access and facilitating the interviews.  Thanks of course, to Josh and Tyson for taking the time before the game to speak with us.  Thanks to Cheryl for the camera work and for doing her best to get the good lighting and for keeping my ugly mug off of there.  Thanks to DiPro for showing me the ropes.

—

A couple things about our day in Reading:

• The team didn’t look so good.  It was their second straight day game and they were winging the ball around the field like the IronPigs of earlier this year.  DiPro said, “We went to Reading, and an IronPigs game broke out.”  Remember, we have a lot of the prospects here, so Reading is a little thin this year.
• Zach Collier and Anthony Hewitt had the day off.
• I still like Derrick Mitchell
• Sebastian Valle was DH, and while he didn’t have any hits, he did seem to be more patient at the plate.  He looked like he had a plan, at least.
• The ostriches are cool.  We obeyed the sign and didn’t try to feed them or any other mischief.
• The Portland pitcher (AA Boston prospect Anthony Ranaudo) was good.  We’ll see him with Pawtucket and Boston soon enough.
• The new gear in the store is nicer than I thought.  I didn’t buy a new hat, but almost.

—

Finally, here’s some bonus footage with Josh Fields, as DiPro and I kibitz with Josh about Black Forest Deli, Cactus Blue, and Pennsylvania BYOB:

We hope to do some more stuff like this–maybe even bigger and better!  Stay tuned!

See you at the park,

@Kram209

Welcome Back Cloyd-er!

Tyler Cloyd pitched a gem tonight against one of the hottest AAA teams in the land. Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

The Tyler Cloyd we’ve come to know and love as a dominant pitcher for the IronPigs returned tonight, much to the chagrin of the AAA-leading Indians.  He scattered four hits over eight quick innings with zero walks.  His ten strikeouts tied his career high.  Only a Matt Hague solo home-run to the lawn spoiled the potential shut-out.  Justin De Fratus worked an efficient ninth to close things down on a dominant win at Coca Cola park this evening in front of 9,411.

Castro, Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

IronPigs scoring came courtesy of an all-around team effort, aggressive base running, and outstanding performances by the Dictator and the J-Train.  Leandro Castro and Jermaine Mitchell caused all kind of havoc for the first-place Indians.  Castro went 2/3 with a 2B, 2 RBI and a run scored, while JMitch went 2/4 plus reached on an error and a BB.  He had a 3B (almost tried for an inside-the-park), and RBI, and scored twice.  That’s the kind of set-up you need out of that lead-off spot!

The J-Trane on Track! Safe at Second!
(c) Cheryl Pursell

…and safe at home too!
(c) Cheryl Pursell

And speaking of lead-off hitters, word from Twitter as of this writing, had Tyson Gillies headed to New Hampshire to join the AA Reading Fightin Phils to make room for catcher Humberto Quintero who accepted his assignment to AAA and will report to the IronPigs tomorrow.  We wish Tyson well as he continues to work on his new batting stance and swing.  In fact, we saw him working with roving hitting instructor and Iron Pig Emeritus Andy Tracy yesterday during batting practice.  In addition to the extra work, Tyson still found time to talk with us on camera about grilling with his roommates and finding sushi on the road trips.  Look for video and audio from that interview in upcoming posts.

Jordy Mercer, who broke our back with a three-run double last night, was called up to the Pirates today and similarly helped defeat the Washington Nationals.  Good for him!  In other Pirate news, top pitching prospect and former #1 overall draft pick Gerrit Cole will start against the ‘Pigs tomorrow night at Coca Cola Park.  He’s similarly young and talented as our roster, and it should be fun to watch.  Rehab-ing Major League-er Charlie Morton was throwing hard tonight for the Indians, but didn’t have the control necessary to keep the ‘Pigs in check, despite not giving up a hit.  He threw 49 pitches over three innings giving up a run and two BB with one K.  On Sunday, the ‘Pigs should see another rehabbing MLBer, Francisco Liriano (again).  That will be interesting as well because the ‘Pigs saw him in Indy on the recent road trip.  I will be curious to see how our young hitters adjust, seeing him a second time (and, as somewhat of a Pirates fan myself, Liriano’s ability to adjust, as well.)

We welcome back Tom Cochran, as well, who will start for the ‘Pigs tomorrow night.  Some say Life is a Highway, but I think he can beat Gerrit Cole.  Then again, I might be some kind of lunatic.  Lunantic Fringe, that is:

or, the original (with Red Rider):

Stay tuned for video interviews, and NoiseCast episode 5, and I’ll see you at the park!

@Kram209

Pigs Drop a Pair

The cold breeze wasn’t enough to cool off the hot-hitting Buffalo Bison, and the home-town ‘Pigs lost both ends of an evening doubleheader.

–

As we whittle away at the remaining starters who could join Philadelphia for Monday evening’s start against Pittsburgh, Ethan Martin took the mound and eliminated himself from contention.  Of course, he was eliminated by virtue of starting pitching, but he struggled with his control as well.  That was the “book” on Ethan; he’s got great “stuff” but will sometimes suffer if he can’t locate the pitches properly.  This seemed to be the case Saturday in the early game, as many of his off-speed offerings were wild-high.  And it wasn’t just that the high off-speed pitches were there to hit, it was that they were so obviously high that the Bison hitters were able to lay off them and wait for a fastball in the strike zone to swing at.  Martin was able to throw the heater for a strike, but didn’t have the benefit of off-balance hitters, and they made him pay.  He surrendered five hits and four free-passes (plus a hit batsman) which lead to seven runs, all earned.  Justin Friend relieved him and allowed two inherited runners to score, plus one of his own over two innings.

Ethan seemed to be in good spirits when we met him briefly after the second game.  I would expect the young starter will continue to work on his craft and his day to be called up to help Philadelphia will come soon enough.

The ‘Pigs were able to get some hits, draw some walks, and have some chances–but just weren’t able to capitalize on them.  Cody Overbeck went 2/3 with 2 RBI on a homer and a double, but was thrown out at the plate.  Darrin Ruf struck out twice on the big looping curves from former ‘Pig Dave Bush to leave four on base.  Cody Asche went 2/3 to bring his average up to .260 on the season.

Nevertheless, the Home Team was able to bring the tying run to the plate with the bases loaded in the bottom-half of the final-inning seventh in the form of outfielder Leandro Castro.  I have to say I’ve been impressed with the young outfielder thus far this season.  But had I been the manager, I probably would have inserted Josh Fields as a pinch-hitter and told him to either hit a grand-slam or strike out trying.  Brundage sent Castro up, though, and he put a charge into a 2-1 pitch.  It wasn’t quite high enough to get into the wind stream, and was caught at the warning track in left-center.  It brought 9,000 of us at Coca Cola Park to our feet, though.  Hats off to Leandro for giving it his best!

—

The second game began with spot-starter Zach Miner on the mound.  While starter BJ Rosenberg was on normal rest to have started the game, it was pointed out on the radio broadcast the other day that if a “bullpen” day is in order, it might be easier to have it in a seven-inning game rather than a nine-inning game.  Miner started shaky, yielding a few walks before getting a pep-talk from pitching coach Ray Burris in the first inning with the bases loaded and no outs.  Whatever the pitching guru said to Zach, it worked.  He extracted himself from the situation with a strikeout, a pop-up and a come-backer.  He then went on to pitch two more innings of no-hit ball.  Justin De Fratus then came in for innings four and five and scattered three hits and two walks to go along with three strikeouts, but allowed no runs as the IronPigs nursed a 1-0 lead.  Gillies had drawn a walk, stolen second, and easily scored on a Cesar Hernandez single.

The red-hot Bisons don’t go away that easily, though.  While the two runs surrendered by reliever Mike Stutes were listed as “earned” it sure didn’t feel that way as the ‘Pigs worked their way up to four errors in the shortened game.  Jake Diekman allowed an inherited runner to score as he pitched for the last out in the top of the seventh.

Once again, the ‘Pigs had a chance in the home half:  they had runners on second and third–enough to walk off down 2-1–and the mighty Cesar couldn’t come through.

Alas, it wasn’t meant to be on the clear and blustery evening, but our young club showed that they could play with experienced and talented AAA players from the first-place Blue Jays’ farm team.

—

Once again, heightened security was present at the park as bags were inspected and officers discretely patrolled the park.  ”Sweet Caroline” made an appearance and the 9,000 in attendance enjoyed the evening.  Many left after the first game, but as always, faithful were on hand until the last out was made 14 innings later.  Quality glass pint glasses with John Mayberry Jr.’s likeness were distributed, and folks with an eye on Philadelphia lamented Cliff Lee’s difficult night.  I was following the SteelHawks game via Twitter updates, and was disappointed to learn of another narrow loss in a very high-scoring game.

But today’s another day.  BJ Rosenberg is set to take the mound in an afternoon game and the sun is out.  Pending a change, I’d guess Tyler Cloyd–now the scheduled Monday starter–will be called to Philadelphia with Jon Pettibone moving up to take the Monday AM-start in Allentown on regular rest.  Perhaps Tom Cochran will move up from Reading to take Cloyd’s spot.  But we shall see.

It’s dog day today, and knit caps will be distributed to the first 3,000 adult humans.  The Bisons don’t have a projected starter, so perhaps we can get a win from them.

Put on your Sunday vests.  Put on your powder blues.  Let’s get out there and show why we’re the best fans in the MiLB.

 

See you at the park,

@Kram209

‘Pigs Open Weekend Series Tonight

Friday Night Fireworks, photo courtesy ironpigsbaseball.com

The IronPigs will open a “wrap-around” series with the Buffalo Bison tonight with a 7:05 first pitch–weather permitting.  As of this writing, we’re still expecting Ethan Martin (could be held back by the Lannan/Savery spot in Philly) versus old friend Dave Bush (could be held back by rain).  The Bisons scored 27 runs yesterday, and the IronPigs 14–so no doubt we’re in for a pitcher’s duel tonight if they can get this one in.   The Bison are now the AAA affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, with the Mets having been exiled to Las Vegas.  Some will remember the days when Syracuse was the Jays affiliate….

Also, there will be NoiseNation presence in the Hot Corner tonight, as we prepare for a full review of the new seats and amenities available there.

As mentioned above, weather may be a factor this evening, while the rest of the weekend looks OK.  One strategy is to remain at home until social media informs you that the tarps are coming off.  That will allow you approximately 30 minutes to get to the park while they line the field.  As per usual though–and barring extraordinary weather happenings–they will open the doors.  Stay tuned!

Our new executive chef begins to flex his culinary muscles for this second home stand with a few new offerings at the Pig Stop.  First up on Friday is “The Last Call” – Bourbon BBQ Chicken, Cheddar-Jack Cheese, Char-grilled Jalapeno & Coleslaw on Panini-pressed french bread.  Only $6.00!

John Mayberry, Jr. commemorative pint glass, picture courtesy @porkcenter

Saturday evening first pitch looks to be 6:35PM barring a double-header addition from the Friday game. Projected starter for the ‘Pigs is BJ Rosenberg.  The Bison do not have a projected starter at this time.  It’s John Mayberry Jr. pint glass night for the first 3,000 adults.  Also on Saturday, authentic game-worn road jerseys will be auctioned to benefit ironpigscharities.

Saturday night at the PigStop:  ”The Damn Yankee” – Sliced Meatloaf, French Fried Onions, Cheddar Cheese & stone-ground Dijonaise on sourdough for $7.00.

Knit Cap, photo courtesy @porkcenter

Sunday is knit cap day with a 1:35 first pitch (barring double-header, yadda, yadda) for the first 3,000 adults.  It’s also dog day in the park.  The IronPigs look to send Tyler Cloyd to the mound if things go as planned, to face RHP Claudio Vargas.

At the PigStop: “The Jackhammer” – Honey Cured Ham, Pepper-Jack Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato & Chipotle Mayo on  a Wrap.  $6.50

..

Monday is an “Education” day (I’m still unsure about the actual education going on, but I don’t have a problem with it per se) with the usual 10:35AM start.  It works well as a “get away” day for the ‘Pigs as they get set for the far-western road trip to Indianapolis and Louisville.  I do plan on stopping by for only me second ever early day game–the last was the Elarton “beginning of the end” game–I think versus Brundage’s Gwinnett team last year.  I’m hoping for a better result this time.  Jon Pettibone is scheduled to take the mound.

I’m also hoping they reconsider opening the PigStop for some omelets   The PigStop is to be closed on Monday, which is disappointing as a nice omlet and some coffee would be great when I arrive around 10:00!  Side note: the PigStop has added a “coffee bar” with flavors and whatnot.  It’s a great idea; I hope it continues–especially in the MORNING!

Check in for updates as the weekend progresses.  We may add some audio updates too, and there’s an old podcast to be produced, to get you ready for the games.

Please remember to vote every day in the blog contest; we appreciate it!

See you at the park,

 

@Kram209

‘Pigs use Can Opener, Beat PawSox

The Pawtucket RedSox remain undefeated–against all teams not named IronPigs.

The IronPigs opened up a can of something on the PawSox this afternoon in Rhode Island to close out a 3-1 series win and a 5-2 northeastern road trip by the score 14-5.  Following a lackluster game last evening, which they lost 6-1, the IronPigs opened a 5-1 lead on old “friend” Rubby De La Rosa, whom we beat up pretty good last week.  Young lefty Adam Morgan plowed through the first two innings without allowing a hit, then struggled with his command a tad in the bottom of the third giving up a run on a walk, wild pitch, and two ground outs. With two outs in the bottom of the fourth, Morgan gave up a single and a double, but still no runs.  By the bottom of the fifth, Morgan had thrown 100 pitches and left with a 5-1 lead.  His line was 5.0IP/2H/1R/1ER/3BB/4K.  He remains the IronPigs most effective starting pitcher at this juncture, and speculation has him going to Philadelphia to replace DL-listed John Lannan.  However, with 100 pitches thrown today, that seems somewhat doubtful now as he’d have to pitch again on Monday in Lannan’s spot.

Adam Morgan file photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Mike Stutes came in to give up four earned runs on five hits–including a Big Pappi solo homer–but nevertheless earned the Blown Save/Win combination once Tyson Gillies pulled out the can opener:

An Overbeck K, then an Orr single.  Susdorf walks then Lerud pops out.  Two on and two out:  Gillies launches one to right center on a 2-0 pitch against former IronPig Oscar Villareal.

The Pigs never looked back.  They added a Lerud 2-run homer and an Overbeck Grand Slam in the ninth.

• JMitch–the J-TRAIN!–went 3/6 with 3 RBI to come up a homer short of the cycle and raise his average to .227
• Cody Asche went 4/6 to raise his average to .234
• Susdorf 3/4 with a double and 2 RBI to go with 3 runs scored
• Gillies putting it all together:  3/4, 3RBI, 3Runs and the dinger, to raise his average to .175 and get off the schnide.
• Speedy Petey and the J-Train had stolen bases
• Savery pitched a clean seventh inning with 2K
• Diekman touched 96MPH and pitched the eighth and ninth with 2K, 1BB, and no hits

Asche file photo (c) Cheryl Pursell

Savery file photo
(c) Cheryl Pursell

Diekman file photo (c) Decal

….

Buffalo scored 27 runs on Syracuse TODAY, so we’ll look forward to a 1-0 pitcher’s duel when they come to town tomorrow, no doubt!  Here’s hoping the weather clears as we welcome our piggies back!  Let’s get out there and make some noise!

….

Late word is that the Phillies will call up a reliever tomorrow–I’m guessing Savery–and make the rotation replacement decision before Monday.  My opinion is that it may depend on the weather:  If the Phillies rotation gets moved back a day, it should be Morgan.

See you at the park,

@Kram209

Pigs Win Again!

The Pawtucket RedSox are undefeated–unless they have to play the IronPigs.  The IronPigs took another from the 8-2 PawSox this afternoon as the sounds of screaming school children filled our computers, streaming audio and video of an early afternoon game.

 

Jon Pettibone got the start for the IronPigs and struggled with his control at times.  He made a lot of good pitches for strikes, but narrowly missed some others which led to two walks and seven hits over the first four innings, to go with three strikeouts.  This yielded four runs–earned–for Pawtucket.

Pettibone was to face off against knuckleballer Steven Wright who flummoxed us pretty good on the home end of this home-and-home April series.  However, Wright was a late scratch with speculation that he may be called to Boston.  Chris Hernandez was moved up to take the start against the IronPigs. 

 

The change in pitchers was fortunate for young outfielder Leandro Castro, who was due to get a day off.  He was added to the lineup batting second and playing Right Field.  He e to crush a long drive to center which required a Revere-esque play by Pawtucket Center Fielder Mitch Maier.  Then, he added a three run line-drive home run and a double with run scored. 

 

Tommy Joseph also added a three-run dinger, and Overbeck had a round-tripper as well.  Justin Friend relieved Pettibone and went two and 2/3 yeilding two more runs for the Red Sox AAA affiliate.  While he doesn’t normally pitch that many innings, the IronPigs are preparing for a “bullpen” day tomorrow with Cesar Jimenez getting the start.

 

Tyson Gillies got two hits to get his average back to triple digits; however, was picked off twice while on base.  The first time, he was sent on a hit and run but left early and got nabbed.  The second time was a more traditional pick-off at first.  I’ve gotta feel for Tyson as it seems he’s trying too hard.  Perhaps it’s time for a day off for him as he continues to try to adjust to his new batting instruction as well  as the AAA game.  We’re still pulling for him!

 

Jake Diekman worked a clean 1.1 with but one walk to go with two strikeouts.  With the score now 8-6, it was up to Michael Stutes to close down the heart of the order–although three-hole hitter and rehab player David Ortiz was lifted for a pinch hitter after going oh-for-four.  Gillies with a nice play in Center, then Lavarnway with a can of corn to Castro and a three pitch K of Brentz.  Save Stutes!

 

The ‘Pigs are now above .500 for the first time in the Brundage era!  They’ll face off again with the PawSox tomorrow at 6:15PM.