We’ll have more to come on the 2014 IronPigs Opening Day Roster. For now, learn more about the players– and we’ll have more to come before the ‘Pigs take the field in Pawtucket Thursday to open the 2014 season:
[DISABLED LIST PLAYERS ARE INCLUDED BELOW, EXCEPT ADAM MORGAN. TYSON GILLIES IS WITH THE TEAM, THE OTHERS ARE, PRESUMABLE, IN CLEARWATER GETTING WORK IN EXTENDED SPRING TRAINING. WE KNOW GILLIES IS HAMSTRING, AND SAPPELT HAD OFFSEASON WRIST SURGERY. MORE NEWS TO COME.]
—
CATCHERS
Cameron Rupp
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell
CAMERON RUPP:
AGE: 25
MLB EXPERIENCE: Made his debut last season with the Phillies.
LAST SEASON: Started in Reading, worked his way past higher prospects Tommy Joseph and Sebastian Valle, played for the IronPigs, then for the Phillies in September.
OUTLOOK: Should find his way back to Philadelphia at some point this season. Spend most of Spring Training in MLB camp, hitting .346 with a home run.
NOTABLE: Cameron is from Texas and supports the Dallas Cowboys, and his alma mater, the University of Texas
Koyie Hill
Photo Courtesy MiLB
KOYIE HILL:
AGE: 35
MLB EXPERIENCE: Parts of 10 seasons with the Dodgers, Diamondbacks, Cubs and Marlins
LAST SEASON: 18 games with the Marlins, 60 at AAA New Orleans Zephyrs.
OUTLOOK: Koyie replaces former IronPig Lou Marson who opened camp with the Phillies–he was acquired via trade (Cash Considerations) from Washington half way through camp after Marson’s release. He provides experienced, veteran back-up for Cameron Rupp and for the catchers in Philadelphia. If he’s playing better, it’s not inconceivable that he would be called up before Rupp.
NOTABLE: His first name is pronounced “KOY.” He played in the International League in 2012 with Syracuse and 2006 with Columbus. He’s a switch hitter, but throws Right-handed. In college he played 3B, and played 2B for Team USA in 1999. His right hand was injured in a table saw accident in October, 2007. He has two daughters. It’s unknown if he has an opt-out.
INFIELDERS
Jim Murphy from Spring Training, Photo: Cheryl Pursell
JAMES “JIM” MURPHY: 1B, DH
AGE: 28
MLB EXPERIENCE: None
LAST SEASON: Full Season with Reading: .273/.352/.465 with 23 Home Runs in 139 games.
OUTLOOK: Jim has earned the promotion to AAA by virtue of his outstanding season last year. Right-handed.
NOTABLE: Went to Washington State University. Cheers for the Seattle Seahawks (just like our own Dan). Played in Venezuela and the Dominican over the winter.
Brian Bixler, from a minor league spring training game. Photo: (c) Cheryl Pursell
BRIAN BIXLER util.
[OPENS ON THE IRONPIGS DISABLED LIST]
AGE: 31
MLB EXPERIENCE: Parts of four seasons with Pittsburgh, Washington, and Houston.
LAST SEASON: 101 games for Las Vegas (Mets) in the PCL: .259/.323/.372 with 5HR
OUTLOOK: Has had a strong Spring Training. As a “super-utility” he may be called upon to fill any number of roles with the Major League team if the situation presents itself.
NOTABLE: Has played every position except pitcher and catcher on the MAJOR LEAGUE level! Righty. It’s unknown if he has an opt-out. Has played in the International League previously with Columbus, Indianapolis, and Syracuse.
Blanco Singles.
Photo: DiPro
ANDRES BLANCO: SS
AGE: 30 (on 4/11)
MLB EXPERIENCE: Parts of 6 seasons with Kansas City, the Cubs, and Texas
LAST SEASON: Did not play. Remained signed by the Phillies, but spent the year recovering from shoulder problems.
OUTLOOK: As a superior defender, Blanco may be called back to the Majors if he can hit well enough. Hit .235 for the IronPigs in 2012.
NOTABLE: “Andy White” can be cheered on with: “LETS GO! BLAN-CO!”
Franco from Spring Training; Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell
MAIKEL FRANCO: 3B, 1B
AGE: 21 (22 in August)
MLB EXPERIENCE: None. Spent a significant amount of time in “big league” camp this spring.
LAST SEASON: 31 Home Runs between Clearwater and Reading.
OUTLOOK: He’s a top prospect in the Phillies Minor League system–if not the very top. While he’s young, and may struggle, he also could be called upon to help the Phillies this season. At the very least, he may get a taste of the Majors again in September.
NOTABLE: Scouts are worried that his swing may not be “compact” or “short” enough–that an exaggerated “load” may slow his overall bat speed somewhat and allow him to be fooled at the plate. Others are worried that he may not be able to field well enough to stay at 3B, and may ultimately be Ryan Howard’s replacement at 1B some day. He does have a very strong throwing arm. Bats Right/Throws Right.
Tyler Henson
Photo: Cheryl Pursell
TYLER HENSON: 3B
AGE: 26
MLB EXPERIENCE: None.
LAST SEASON: 80 games in Reading, 31 with the IronPigs
OUTLOOK: First made it to AAA with Norfolk in 2011, playing 123 games with the Tides. Looking to take the next step, he excelled in his short time with the ‘Pigs last season hitting .316/.376/.526 with 4 HR.
NOTABLE: Homered twice in his first home series with the Pigs last season. Has a young daughter. Enjoys hunting in the off-season.
Troy Hanzawa
Photo: Cheryl Pursell
TROY HANZAWA: SS, 3B
AGE: 28
MLB EXPERIENCE: None
LAST SEASON: 60 games in Reading, 19 with the IronPigs.
OUTLOOK: The slick-fielding, light-hitting Hanzawa is still trying to prove he belongs in AAA after spending parts of the last three seasons with Reading.
NOTABLE: Born in Hawaii, he went to college at San Diego State
Brignac, from a Spring Training game
Photo: (c) Cheryl Pursell
REID BRIGNAC: SS, Util
AGE: 28
MLB EXPERIENCE: Parts of 6 seasons with Tampa, Colorado, and the Yankees
LAST SEASON: 46 games with Colorado and the Yankees: .185/.219/.261, .230/.325/.315 at AAA
OUTLOOK: The former 2nd round pick of the Rays looks to get back to the Majors. It’s not known if he has an opt-out.
NOTABLE: .316/.500/.474 with the Phillies MLB group this spring.
OUTFIELDERS
Castro Raking,
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell
LEANDRO CASTRO
AGE: Turns 25 in June
MLB EXPERIENCE: None, but was invited to MLB Spring Training this season, after re-signing with the Phillies.
OUTLOOK: The free-swinging righty will need to be more disciplined at the plate. Good outfield play and some seasoning, and he may be of value to the Phillies this year or next as a fourth outfielder.
NOTABLE: Seems to always come through with a big hit at clutch times–including several game winners last season.
Gillies!
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell
TYSON GILLIES CF, LF
[OPENS ON THE IRONPIGS DISABLED LIST]
AGE: 25
MLB EXPERIENCE: None.
LAST SEASON: Broke camp with the IronPigs but was sent back to Reading to work on swing mechanics and such. Returned to Lehigh Valley later in the season and played well.
OUTLOOK: High expectations persist as Tyson was a key piece in the trade that sent Cliff Lee to Seattle. Consistent, healthy performance at AAA will earn him the call.
NOTABLE: Tyson is hearing-impaired. He has had some “misunderstandings” in his career which may or may not be related. He’s had difficulty staying healthy, and has an injured hamstring as of this writing. Is active on Twitter: @TysonGillies21
Dave Sappelt
Photo: MiLB.com
DAVE SAPPELT CF, OF
[OPENS ON THE IRONPIGS DISABLED LIST]
AGE: 27
MLB EXPERIENCE: Parts of 3 seasons in Cincinnati and Chicago (Cubs).
LAST SEASON: 90 games with Iowa (AAA), 31 games with the Cubs. Iowa: .252/.305/.364 5HR, Cubs: .240/.269/.280 0 HR
OUTLOOK: Was thought to be in the mix with Tony Gwynn Jr. to challenge for a bench spot in Philly, but had some minor off-season surgery which delayed action in camp. He could still be an outfield piece for the Phillies if needed.
NOTABLE: Just recently returned to the batter’s box, he’s been hitting well in camp. It’s unknown if he has an opt-out. Born in Buffalo, NY, he supports the Bills. Bats Right.
Susdorf
Photo: DiPro
STEVE SUSDORF, RF/LF
AGE: 28
MLB EXPERIENCE: Received his first call to the bigs last season, where he got is first hit, appearing in three games.
LAST SEASON: IronPigs
OUTLOOK: Said to have one of the purest swings around, he gives quality at-bats and looks to earn a trip down the turnpike once again.
NOTABLE: He and his wife, with the help of IronPigs Charities, held a raffle last season to benefit an orphanage in Haiti. It was a huge success, and led to the famous DiPro Day.
Clete, from Spring Training
Photo: (c) Cheryl Pursell
CLETE THOMAS: RF, OF
AGE: 30
MLB EXPERIENCE: Parts of 4 seasons with Detroit and Minnesota
LAST SEASON: 36 games with Rochester, 92 with Minnesota. He’s been in the International league with both Rochester and Toledo. With ROC last season: .296/.385/.576, 9HR.
OUTLOOK: Left-handed bat with some pop should play well in Coca Cola Park. Would provide an easy back-up for Marlon Byrd in RF for the Phillies if needed due to injury. It’s not currently known if he has an opt-out.
NOTABLE: Clete has one of the strongest arms in the IL. Look for him to gun down runners from Right Field.
STARTING PITCHERS
David Buchanan dealing.
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell
DAVID BUCHANAN: RHP
AGE: 25 in May
MLB EXPERIENCE: none
LAST SEASON: 10-13, 4.40ERA between Reading and Lehigh Valley. 28 Starts.
OUTLOOK: Stock is rising for Buchanan as he looks to be on the short list of starters available to the Phillies in April if needed. He had a very strong camp with the MLB team.
NOTABLE: The Georgia native went to Georgia State
Barry Enright, this spring
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell
BARRY ENRIGHT, RHP
AGE: 28 (today!)
MLB EXPERIENCE: Parts of 4 seasons with the Diamondbacks and Angels. 6-7, 3.91 with Arizona in 17 starts, in 2010.
LAST SEASON: 2 starts with the Angels, 22 with Salt Lake.
OUTLOOK: Statistics not impressive from last season; however, Barry has had an excellent camp with the minor leaguers, and looks to find new life in the more pitching friendly International League.
NOTABLE: The west-coast native has never pitched in the International league. He was named MVP of the Finals in the Winter Mexican League.
Greg Smith Brings It
Photo: (c) Cheryl Pursell
GREG SMITH: LHP
AGE: 30
MLB EXPERIENCE: 2008 with Oakland, 2010 with Colorado
LAST SEASON: Was about to report to an independent league team with the Phillies picked him up for help in Reading. He spent much of the season with us on the IronPigs, where he became the most dependable starter down the stretch. He was 8-4 in 14 starts with 3.31 ERA.
OUTLOOK: He may be a consideration if the Phillies are in need of a LHP starter, and Jesse Biddle isn’t ready.
NOTABLE: The Louisiana native went to LSU.
Chris Bootcheck
Photo: MiLB.com
CHRIS BOOTCHECK
[OPENS ON THE IRONPIGS DISABLED LIST]
AGE: 35
MLB EXPERIENCE: Parts of 7 seasons with the Angels, Pittsburgh, and the Yankees
LAST SEASON: 23 starts with Scranton/Wilkes Barre. 10-7, 3.69ERA
OUTLOOK: The veteran was not invited to MLB camp, but could become an integral part of either the IronPigs or the Phillies at some point this season. While he was a starter last season in Moosic, he is also experienced as a reliever and a closer, which may earn him a promotion at some point this season. He could move between reliever and starter during the season, and may open as co-starter with Pettibone until Jon gets stretched out.
NOTABLE: When the IronPigs win the IronRail Trophy this season, he’ll become the first two-time winner. Had 20 saves for Indianapolis in 2009, and 17 for Toledo in 2012.
Sean O’Sullivan, seen here pitching in Spring Training game
Photo: (c) Cheryl Pursell
SEAN O’SULLIVAN: RHP
AGE: 27 on 9/1
MLB EXPERIENCE: Parts of 4 seasons with Angels, Royals, and Padres. 37 MLB starts.
LAST SEASON: 20 starts with AAA Tuscon 8-5 3.83, 3 starts with San Diego 0-2, 3.96
OUTLOOK: In MLB camp was in a three-way battle for the #5 starter job with David Buchanan and Jeff Manship. While Manship won the opening-day ‘pen job, additional starter spots in Philly are still up for grabs as guys are yet to get healthy.
NOTABLE: Younger brother Ryan looks to secure a spot in the Reading bullpen this season, as he works his way up the Phillies system. Ryan is 23, will turn 24 in September.
(c) Decal
JON PETTIBONE, RHP
AGE: 24 in July
MLB EXPERIENCE: 18 starts with the Phillies last season.
OUTLOOK: He’s recovering from shoulder difficulty. May need time to acquire stamina. Still in the mix for the 5th Starter spot if healthy and stretched out.
NOTABLE: Ended season with shoulder injury last year. Did not lose job, but health a big question going into the season, now. Didn’t pitch much during Spring Training with rest and a cortisone injection. Watch for his velocity, stamina, and control as he returns to form.
RELIEF PITCHERS
Shawn Camp
Photo: MiLB.com
SHAWN CAMP: RHP
AGE: 38
MLB EXPERIENCE: 10 seasons: Kansas City, Tampa, Toronto, and the Cubs
LAST SEASON: 26 games with the Cubs, 19 games in the minors.
OUTLOOK: The veteran had a good Spring; many including myself thought he had earned a ‘pen job. He should be quickly called up should the Phillies need relief help. Not known if he has an opt-out.
NOTABLE: Experienced and effective, but not a power pitcher. Appeared in 80 games in 2012 with the Cubs. Traditionally used as a one-inning middle relief guy. International League with Syracuse shortly in 2008.
Aumont (Photo courtesy of Cheryl Pursell)
PHILLIPPE AUMONT: RHP
AGE: 25
MLB EXPERIENCE: Parts of the last two seasons with the Phillies.
OUTLOOK: Electric stuff will have him back with the Phillies this season most likely. Needs control, which can be difficult given his 6’7″ frame. Look for Brundage to challenge him with closer-duties.
NOTABLE: Another piece from Seattle in the Cliff Lee deal, along with Tyson Gillies and JC Ramirez (now with Cleveland/Columbus). Owns the highest recorded score in Konami Contra, the video game in the IronPigs clubhouse.
Jimenez. Photo – Cheryl Pursell
CESAR JIMENEZ, LHP
AGE: 29
MLB EXPERIENCE: Parts of 4 seasons with Seattle and Philadelphia
OUTLOOK: Reasonable expectation to make it back to Philadelphia should they need a LHP reliever.
NOTABLE: Pitches in his native Venezuela in the winter. Spent this past winter season concerned with the unrest there.
Jeremy Horst
(Photo courtesy of Cheryl Pursell)
JEREMY HORST: LHP
AGE: 28
MLB EXPERIENCE: Parts of the last three seasons with Cincinnati and Philadelphia.
LAST SEASON: Coming back from injury, appeared in games with Clearwater, Lehigh Valley, and the Phillies
OUTLOOK: Like Jimenez, he’s an experienced LHP relief man available as needed. Like Pettibone, he’ll have to prove he’s healthy and ready for the job.
NOTABLE: Came over in the trade which sent Wilson Valdez to the Reds. Born in Wyoming, went to college in Georgia.
Luis Garcia
Photo: MiLB.com
LUIS GARCIA: RHP
AGE: 27
MLB EXPERIENCE: Made his debut last season with the Phillies
LAST SEASON: Made appearances at 4 levels, from Clearwater to the Phillies.
OUTLOOK: Sometimes electric stuff, needs polish. Throws hard.
NOTABLE: Did not pitch affiliated ball in 2011 or 2012. Worked as a barber to makes ends meet. Had never pitched above AA prior to last season. A native of the Dominican Republic, had a 1.80ERA in winter ball there this past offseason.
Kyle Simon
Photo: (c) Cheryl Pursell
KYLE SIMON, RHP
AGE: 24 in August
MLB EXPERIENCE: None
LAST SEASON: 2-6, 4.45 ERA in 45 relief appearances in Reading
OUTLOOK: High. Had a great camp and earned the promotion. 11 saves last season should have him getting inning in middle relief as well as in closing. Not usually used for more than an inning +.
NOTABLE: Came to the Phillies organization as part of the Jim Thome trade with Baltimore in 2012 along with catcher Lino.
Hector Neris
Photo MiLB.com
HECTOR NERIS: RHP
AGE: 25 in June
MLB EXPERIENCE: None
LAST SEASON: 6-4, 4.55 ERA, 46 Games, 8 Starts in Reading
OUTLOOK: The right-handed swing man takes the next step after spending all of last season in Reading. Filled in as a starter for 8 games when Reading was short.
NOTABLE: The Dominican native has progressed through the Phillies system one level per year, doing Williamsport and Lakewood in one shot.
Mike Nessesth
Photo (c) Cheryl Pursell
MIKE NESSETH: RHP
AGE: 26 in April
MLB EXPERIENCE: None
LAST SEASON: 1-5, 2.50 ERA over three levels from Clearwater to the IronPigs, appeared in 48 games, started 1
OUTLOOK: After a good spring, Nesseth earns the promotion. Pitched well when the IronPigs needed a win to stay in playoff contention in August.
NOTABLE: Went to college at Nebraska
—
More to come, with reaction and analysis on the roster,
Stay tuned!
@Kram209
Categories: CherylPursellsPhotos, Kram's Korner - From the Club Level, Lehigh Valley IronPigs
noisenation.wordpress.com 
Leave a comment