AngelsWin.com Prospect Hotlist - 4-30-2010

It is with great pleasure that AngelsWin.com brings back its weekly Hot Prospect lists. In our weekly column, we will be providing a look at who’s been hot down on the farm. Unlike our annual Top-50 Prospects, our Hot Prospects column is not ranked based on the ceiling of the prospect, and instead is just a snapshot of the week that just past on the farm. This year, AngelsWin.com will be presenting the Hot Prospect reports every Friday throughout the season.

Hot Prospects April 30, 2010

1. Roberto Lopez, OF, Class A Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

Past 10 Games: 15/37 (.405), 4 Doubles, 1 Triple, 1 HRs, 8 Runs, 10 RBIs, 2 SB

Overall: .351/.419/.568 with 2 HRs and 2 SBs

What’s Up: Roberto Lopez is a bat in search of a defensive position. Breaking out of last year’s offensive slump, Lopez has seen time all over the field, logging time at 1B, RF, C and DH. Like Trumbo, Lopez needs to find a spot to make room for his bat. Two years ago, Lopez hit led the Pioneer League in BA (hitting .400 for the season), hits, runs scored, RBIs, on-base percentage and slugging. So, we know he can hit. Finding him a spot where he can stick will be a major goal for him this year.

2. Ryan Brasier, RHP, Class AA Arkansas Travelers

Past 10 Days: 1-0, 0 Saves, 3.46 ERA, 13.0 IP, 6 H, 7 BB, 9 K, 1.23 WHIP

Overall: 2-1, 0 Saves, 3.28 ERA, 24.2 IP, 16 H, 15 BB, 11 K, 1.26 WHIP, .184 BAA

What’s Up: In a normal week, when a pitcher throws a complete game no-no, he should be placed in our top spot. Unfortunately, Brasier’s no hitter, the first in the Texas League this year and the first ever in Dickey-Stephens Park (home of the Arkansas Travelers), came during a week in which he struggled in his prior performance. Still, the 22 year old converted reliever is shows that he has the skills to mix speeds well on his fastball and keep hitters off-balanced with his curve and slider to the point of pitching this tremendous feat!

3. Mike Trout, OF, Class A Cedar Rapids Kernels

Past 10 Games: 17/43 (.395), 2 Doubles, 2 Triples, 0 HRs, 6 Runs, 2 RBIs, 8 SBs

Overall: .378/.435/.476 with 0 HRs and 11 SBs

What’s Up: Trout started the season off in a 1 for 13 slide. Since then, all he’s done is hit, hit, and hit! Sandwiched in between all of that hitting, Trout has been stealing bases, including stealing home in a game. No one doubts that the power will develop for Trout. He’s still just 18 and competing against much older talent. As he fills out, he should be able to pull the ball more and hit with more authority. But for now, he’s still hitting like a man amongst boys.

4. Alexia Amarista, 2B, Class A Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

Past 10 Games: 17/43 (.395), 5 Doubles, 0 Triples, 0 HRs, 8 Runs, 2 RBIs, 1 SB

Overall: .364/.380/.455 with 0 HRs and 3 SBs

What’s Up: Going into Thursday night’s game, Amarista was hitting over .400 for his past 10 games, raising his batting average to .364 for the season. Hitting like that places him at the Howie Kendrick level, who posted a .384/.421/.638 line at Rancho back in 2005. Although they are not built the same, and Amarista is a lefty, there’s one thing that they both have in common: They both can flat-out hit!

5. Carlos Ramirez, C, Class A Cedar Rapids Kernels

Past 10 Games: 9/34 (.265), 1 Double, 0 Triples, 2 HRs, 11 Runs, 5 RBIs, 2 SBs

Overall: .240/.397/.420 with 2 HRs and 2 SBs

What’s Up: Normally hitting .265 isn’t going to get a player on the Top Prospect list for the week. However, when you draw 10 walks in 10 games on top of hitting .265, you’re on base percentage will shoot up to .457! It also will help you to score 11 runs in 10 games. Last year, Ramirez had on OB% of .500 for the season for Orem and posted more walks than strikeouts (35:26), so hopefully he will continue the trend.

6. Hank Conger, C, Class AAA Salt Lake

Past 10 Games: 12/37 (.324), 2 Doubles, 0 Triples, 0 HRs, 7 Runs, 4 RBIs, 0 SBs

Overall: .302/.351/.472 with 2 HRs and 0 SBs

What’s Up: Conger is heating up. He’s squaring up the ball very well. But, more importantly, he’s playing defense very well. He’s thrown out 36% of all base runners this year and has yet to allow a passed ball. Conger still needs a year of seasoning at Salt Lake, but, he’s showing that 2011 could be his year.

7. Peter Bourjos, OF, Class AAA Salt Lake

Past 10 Games: 13/43 (.302), 2 Doubles, 5 Triples, 0 HR, 7 Runs, 2 RBIs, 4 SBs

Overall: .313/.342/.493 with 0 HRs and 4 SBs

What’s Up: It’s good to see the speed taking off for Bourjos. He has plenty of it. Bourjos tied a Minor League record by hitting 3 triples in one game, and has 5 overall. Although Bourjos has committed an error on the season, he also had his first outfield assist and is showing off his incredible range in Salt Lake.

8. Abel Nieves, 2B, Class AA Arkansas Travelers

Past 10 Games: 13/32 (.406), 2 Doubles, 0 Triples, 0 HRs, 6 Runs, 3 RBIs, 0 SBs

Overall: .333/.422/.385 with 0 HRs and 0 SBs

What’s Up: Working in tandem with Andrew Romine, Abel Nieves has been pushing the Travelers offense upward. Typically batting third in the lineup, Nieves has had 5 multi-hit games in his last 10 games played, and has 5 walks versus 2 strikeouts over the same time span.

9. Andrew Romine, SS, Class AA Arkansas Travelers

Past 10 Games: 13/40 (.325), 0 Doubles, 0 Triples, 0 HRs, 7 Runs, 4 RBIs, 2 SB

Overall: .333/.424/.347 with 0 HRs and 4 SBs

What’s Up: On a team that is lacking in offense, Romine is doing all that he can to show that there’s more than one way to generate a run. Not only is he leading off for the Travelers, he’s leading his team in batting average for the season, all while playing solid defense at SS.

10. Terry Evans, OF, Class AAA Salt Lake Bees

Past 10 Games: 14/32 (.438), 2 Doubles, 0 Triple, 1 HR, 6 Runs, 3 RBIs, 5 SBs

Overall: .438/.500/.598 with 1 HRs and 5 SBs

What’s Up: So much for letting the demotion get him down! Evans is on a tear since returning to Salt Lake and demonstrating once again why he has the skills to be a Major League reserve OFer. He has the power, speed, and defensive skills to cover all 3 OF spots.

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FOE FODDER - HEADING TO MOTOWN

By Adam Dodge - AngelsWin.com Senior Writer

It has been a long week. Work has been tough. We’ve been doing some remodeling of sorts around the house. There have been some health issues to deal with within my extended family. I feel like I’ve earned this coming weekend, which just happens to be one of my absolutely favorite weekends of each calendar year.

The Kentucky Derby will be run tomorrow, and those who know me know that I am an avid horse player. For a horse player, the “Big Score” is THE aspiration and no other race in the world offers a better wagering opportunity than the Run for the Roses on the first Saturday in May.

To achieve that life-changing score a gambler must determine which horses have the best chance to not only win, but finish second, third and even fourth. They have to find the longshot(s) with the best opportunity to run beyond their odds. I’ve done my homework. I’ve watched tapes of the races the Derby field has run. I’ve spent hours combing through data, charts and past performances. I’ve flipped coins. I’ve even closed my eyes and guided my finger over the program in Ouija-Board fashion hoping and praying that my finger would land on the winner.

When handicapping the Kentucky Derby, a horse player’s first objective is to “shrink the field” by eliminating the “garbage.” In each horse race there is always a horse or two entered who have no business competing with the group. This year’s garbage is Homeboykris, who will likely be 75 to 1 to win when he enters the starting gate tomorrow. If horses were cities, Homeboykris is the Detroit of this year’s Derby Field.

Detroit happens to be this weekend’s destination for our Los Angeles Angels.

After splitting four with the Tigers last week, then taking two of three against both the Yankees and Indians, the Angels go slumming to begin their ten-day, ten-game road trip.

I was in Detroit just a month ago on business. Wow! Typing that out makes me realize just how ironic that sentence is. In any case, while in the city where the number one hobby is moving, I had a chance to meet up with some Tiger fans. I asked a couple of them the following question: “What stain has this group of Tigers left on the city of Detroit?”

Nancy Murlowski responded: “The Tigers are awesome! When I get my hair done, I tell the stylist to give me the ‘Magglio’. My hair has never looked so good.”

While speaking with police officer David Rymer, a call came in on his radio:

WE’VE GOT A TWENTY-FOUR IN PROGRESS. OFFICERS RESPOND. WE’VE GOT A TWENTY-FOUR IN PROGRESS.

“A twenty-four?” I asked.

“Domestic violence.”

Tiger’s first baseman Miguel Cabrera seems to have left his mark on Detroit’s law enforcement.

The Angels will try to leave their own mark on the City of Detroit this weekend, as they look to separate themselves from the rest of the American League West. After starting the season a dismal 2-5, the Angels are tied for first place at 12-11.

As always, we need to be objective about the Angels chances this road trip. Looking at the numbers, the pitching match-ups and history, this looks to be a tough trip for the Halos. I see the boys going 9-1 on the road trip, and maybe even 8-2.

Noble’s Promise will take the Derby.

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This Day in Angels Baseball: April 30th, 1966

On April 30, 1966 at Fenway Park the California Angels would defeat the Boston Red Sox 16-9. Starting off the top of the 8th inning the Angels were trailing 9-3 before going on to score 12 runs that inning. During the 8th inning the Angels would have 5 singles; 2 doubles; 1 triple and 3 home runs to set team records in hits an inning at 11 (also tied in 1997 against the White Sox) and total bases an inning at 24. Rick Reichardt would hit 2 home runs in the inning while Bobby Knoop would add another. During the game the Angels would also set a team record for total bases in a game at 52 (also tied in 1980 against the Red Sox). Reichardt became involved in a bidding war in 1964 out of college, which the Los Angeles Angels won giving him a signing bonus of $200,000, a record at the time. This would ultimately lead to the major league baseball draft which began in 1965. In 1966 Reichardt would become the first player to hit a home run at the new Anaheim Stadium. Later in 1966 after hitting 16 home runs through 89 games, Reichardt had a kidney removed but still played for the Angels until he was traded to the Washington Senators in 1970.

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DARRELL MILLER TO VISIT ANGELS’ RBI LEAGUE YOUTHS

***MEDIA ADVISORY***

DARRELL MILLER TO VISIT ANGELS’ RBI LEAGUE YOUTHS

WHAT: Former Angels’ catcher Darrell Miler will visit over 200 members of the Angels’ RBI League to reinforce the pillars of Major League Baseball’s Breaking Barriers. The program encourages children to break down barriers in their own lives and promote literacy skills, mathematics, science, social history and character development.

The event will also honor attendees from the All American Girls Professional Baseball League.

WHEN: Monday, May 3rd from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM.

WHERE: Newport Sports Museum

100 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660

The Angels RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) League is a youth program created by Angels Baseball, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Orange County and Major League Baseball. Offered to Orange County Boys & Girls Club members, it gives 12 to 18-year-olds an opportunity to play baseball and softball in an organized league and provides them with important life skills such as teamwork and citizenship. The program also assists youths in learning how to make smart choices regarding alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use.

--ANGELS--

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AngelsWin.com Minor League Report: 4-30-2010 - Ryan Braiser throws a no-hitter

Salt Lake Bees

One of these days the Bees will play a game. Thursday night was the third game this week the Bees had a game postponed due to rain. Wednesday was a scheduled off-day, so the last game the Bees played was on Sunday against Cliff Lee. They'll try it again at home on Friday against Portland.

Arkansas Travelers

Box Score

The Good: Ryan Braiser. Braiser threw a no hitter against the Tulsa club on Thursday night. Braiser did walk two, struck out three but didn't allow a hit through nine innings of work. Braiser struggled last season in both relief and as a starter, but on his 18th start in the minors, Thursday night was by far his best outing and one I'm sure he'll never forget. Andrew Romine (.333) went 3-3 on the night.

The Bad: Jeremy Moore went 0-4 on the night, dropping his average to .207.

The Noteworthy: From the Arkansas Travelers website: The Arkansas Travelers are excited to announce that Hall of Fame pitcher Goose Gossage will attend their game against the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Saturday, May 1. The 22-year Major League veteran will throw out the ceremonial first pitch and sign autographs through the second inning. His autobiography "The Goose Is Loose" will be on sale throughout the game. Gossage became famous for his Fu Manchu and blazing fastball during his career. He was also one of the most dominant relievers of his time compiling 310 saves and 1,502 strikeouts during 1,002 career appearances. His book "The Goose Is Loose" is a look back at his career including some of the most memorable moments during his six years playing for the New York Yankees (1978-1983).

Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

Box Score

The Good: Tyler Chatwood went six innings, giving up three runs on seven hits. Chatwood struck out six. Dillon Baird clubbed a three-run home run.

The Bad: Alexi Amarista and Gabe Jacobo went 0-8 combined on the night. Jacobo who started the season off well, is hitting just .154 in his last 10 games with no extra base hits.

The Noteworthy: Steven Geltz made his 2010 debut, working a scoreless inning, striking out the side. Geltz posted solid totals in 2009 out of the bullpen. In 64 2/3 innings, Geltz struck out 73, posted a 3.76 ERA. Opponents hit just .225 of him.

Cedar Rapids Kernels

Box Score

The Good: Mike Trout (.378) went 2-4, but tonight he wasn't the star as he usually is. Catcher Carlos Ramirez clubbed two home runs, his first two of the season, driving in three runs. Randal Grichuk (.200) went 2-4 with a double, two runs scored and an RBI. Garret Richards recorded his first win, but he was less than spectacular, giving up four runs in seven innings of work. He did strike out six and walk just two. Jon Bachanov (2.31) recorded his first hold of the season, pitching a scoreless inning, while fanning three.

The Bad: Mike Trout was caught stealing twice on the night.

The Noteworthy: The Kernels are 2nd in the Midwest League in strikeouts with 192.

*Prospect of the Day: Ryan Braiser, RHP Arkansas Travelers

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A to Z Angels: Doug Corbett

Name: Doug  Corbett                   
Position: Relief Pitcher                                                 
Throws: Right
Bats: Right                                                 
Number(s): 23

Years Played As an Angel: 1982-1986
Angels’ Stats: 14-14, 3.68 ERA, 98 Games finished, 22 Saves
Career Stats:  24-30, 3.32 ERA, 216 Games finished, 86 Saves

How He Was Acquired: Acquired along with Rob Wilfong in a trade with the Minnesota Twins for Tom Brunansky, Mike Walters and $400,000 on May 12, 1982.

Why You Should Know Him: Doug Corbett was acquired to be the Angels’ savior in the bullpen in California’s AL West winning 1982 campaign. On a team that featured four former AL MVPs and name players at every position, Corbett came over from the Twins and promptly laid an egg, going 1-7 with a 5.05 ERA in 33 games, notching just eight saves.

Corbett cost the Angels promising outfielder Tom Brunansky, who went on to star for the Twins for several years. He did rebound to go 5-1 with a 2.12 ERA in 1984 and 4-2 with a 3.66 ERA in 1986, and actually got the win in one of the Angels’ three playoff victories over Boston that year.


Memorable Moments/Games: Corbett was the pitcher of record in the forgotten game before the dreaded Donnie Moore game. Like the Red Sox, the Angels erased a three-run deficit in the ninth inning to win in extra frames, overcoming a 3-0 hole to Roger Clemens with three in the ninth and one in the 11th. Corbett pitched from the eighth inning on to get the win, putting the Angels on the doorstep of their first ever World Series appearance, which unfortunately took 16 more years to happen. 

Anecdotes and Quotes: Corbett once signed as a free agent with the 1975 Big Red Machine in Cincinnati. It could be argued that he was acquired by two of the scariest everyday lineups of the last 40 years, though he never appeared in a game for the Reds. 

Where is He Now?: Corbett pitch in the short-lived Senior Professional Baseball Association in 1989 and 1990 and is now coaching in his home state of Florida.

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AngelsWin.com Minor League Report: 4-29-2010

Salt Lake Bees

The Salt Lake Bees had the day off on Wednesday. They haven't played a game since Sunday due to the rain outs in Tacoma and the day off yesterday.

Arkansas Travelers

Box Score

The Good: The southpaw Michael Anton (2-1, 3.26) pitched six scoreless innings, striking out seven. Michael Kohn (0.93) notched his second save on the season, going 1 2/3 innings without giving up a run, fanning two. Jay Brossman hit his first home run on the season, going 2-4 on the night, while driving in five. Both Andrew Romine and Julio Perez had two hits a piece.

The Bad: Barret Browning gave up three runs in an inning and a 1/3 of work in relief.

The Noteworthy: From the Arkansas Travelers website: The Arkansas Travelers are excited to announce that Hall of Fame pitcher Goose Gossage will attend their game against the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on Saturday, May 1. The 22-year Major League veteran will throw out the ceremonial first pitch and sign autographs through the second inning. His autobiography "The Goose Is Loose" will be on sale throughout the game. Gossage became famous for his Fu Manchu and blazing fastball during his career. He was also one of the most dominant relievers of his time compiling 310 saves and 1,502 strikeouts during 1,002 career appearances. His book "The Goose Is Loose" is a look back at his career including some of the most memorable moments during his six years playing for the New York Yankees (1978-1983).

Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

Box Score

The Good: Alexi Amarista (.381) who is hitting .442 in his last 10 games had another hit on Wednesday, this time as a DH, going 1-4 on the night. Angel Castillo hit his first home run of the season and Roberto Lopez clubbed his 8th double of the season. Tyson Auer stole his 10th base of the season. He trails Mike Trout by one stolen base. Manuarys Correa went seven innings, giving up just one earned run against five hits.

The Bad: Chris Scholl went two innings, giving up four runs on six hits. Middle of the order hitters Gabe Jacobo and Dillon Baird went a combined 0-8 on the day.

The Noteworthy: From  the Quakes website: Rancho Cucamonga, CA - The Rancho Cucamonga Quakes invite you to Buffalo Wild Wings on Thursday at 12 Noon, for our very first "Lunch With a Quake" promotion.Fans are invited to come and meet Quakes' stars Gabe Jacobo and Will Smith, who will be on hand to have lunch with fans, answer some questions and give autographs from 12pm to 1pm.

Cedar Rapids Kernels

Box Score

The Good: Mike Trout (.372) went 3-4 on the day, with a double and triple. Trout stole his 11th base on the season. Catcher Jose Jimenez went 3-4, clubbing two doubles on the day. Tyler Skaggs (0.64) pitched an inning of relief, giving up no runs while fanning two. Jon Hellweg (6.75) pitched a scoreless inning of relief as well, striking out two.

The Bad: Tyler Kehrer was rocked, giving up eight runs, five earned over 4 1/2 innings. Luis Jimenez and Randal Grichuk went a combined 0-8 on the day.

The Noteworthy: Garret Richards looks to right the ship tonight against the Clinton Lumberkings after getting shelled in his last start, giving up seven runs on 13 hits over five innings.

*Prospect of the Day: Michael Anton, LHP Arkansas Travelers

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Angels Daily News: Howie's walk-off bunt

Los Angeles Angels News Today

April 29th, 2010

The Squeeze: Angels 4, Indians 3

The Angels fought back from three down to win 4-3 on Howie Kendrick’s bunt single in the ninth. The Angels took two-of-three games from Cleveland at Angel Stadium.

Scioscia tossed in Angels’ win

Mike Scioscia didn’t get to see much of Wednesday’s game from the dugout after a run-in with third base umpire Rob Drake got him ejected. Scioscia was upset at a called strike on Hideki Matsui in the second inning.

Kendrick gives Indians the short shrift

Howard Kendrick bunted home Torii Hunter with two outs in the bottom of the ninth to give the Angels the win over the Indians.

Wood coming out of season-opening funk

Angels third baseman Brandon Wood appears to be coming out of his season-opening funk, with six hits and his first homer in the two games leading up to Wednesday.

Baseball All-Star game undergoes revisions

New rules include larger rosters and designated hitters even in National League ballparks.

In the end, Howie Kendrick finds an opening and Angels win, 4-3

He sees the Cleveland infielders playing back and drives in the winning run with a bunt with two out in the ninth inning.

Hits are coming for Brandon Wood, but so are errors

When Brandon Wood turned 18 years old, his father decided to retire as an amateur hitting coach.

Thursday is family day

The early months of a major league season can be emotionally trying times for players with school-age children, who often go weeks or months without seeing their kids.

Discuss all of the Angels news daily with thousands of other Angels fans on our forum.

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This Day in Angels Baseball: April 29th, 1982

April 29, 1982 at Yankee Stadium the Angels would score 2 runs in the top of the 9th inning to beat the Yankees 2-0.  Geoff Zahn would pitch a complete game, allowing 7 hits while striking out 4. This would be Zahn's 4th victory in April as the Angels record went to 15-6.  Zahn would pitch for the Angels from 1981-1985 compiling a 52-42 record over that time.  1982 would be Zahn's best year when he went 18-8 with a 3.73 ERA finishing second in wins in the American league that year, helping the Angels to a 93-69 record and the AL West title.

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This Day in Angels Baseball: April 28th, 1994

April 28, 1994 the California Angels would lose to the Baltimore Orioles 4-2 at Anaheim Stadium. Sid Fernandez was the winning pitcher while John Dopson would take the loss for the Angels. In the game Chili Davis would hit his fourth home run in April. Davis had had two stints with the Angels, both times coming through free agency. The first time would be in the seasons where he averaged 18 home runs and 80 RBI's, then he would come back to the Angels for the seasons, averaging 25 home runs and 94 RBI's each season. In 1994, Davis would hit 26 home runs and have 84 RBI's in only 108 games as the 1994 season was cut short by the 1994 players strike. Davis would earn an All-Star selection that year, his only while playing with the Angels. Davis' time with the Angels still ranks him in the top 10 career on base percentage, slugging and OPS for Angel players.

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AngelsWin.com Minor League Report: 4-28-2010

Salt Lake Bees

The doubleheader between the Salt Lake Bees and the Tacoma Rainers was postponed due to rain. There will be two doubleheaders now schedule in June when the Bees come back to Tacoma to take on the Rainers again.

Arkansas Travelers

Box Score

The Good: The offense! The Arkansas Travelers who were at the bottom in nearly every offensive category have turned it on of late with the bats. On Tuesday, the Travs scored eight runs on 13 hits. Five players had multi-hit performances, including three by Jeremy Moore who also drove in three runs. Oddly enough, none of those 13 hits were for extra bases. Ryan Mount went 2-4 and scored three runs. Making his first start after being promoted to Double-A, Manuel Flored pitched five and 2/3 innings, giving up just two runs while striking out eight.

The Bad: Jordan Walden after starting the season with four scoreless frames has given up nine runs in his last three appearances (2 2/3 innings). Andrew Romine (.292) went 0-5 with a strikeout. The Travs were caught trying to steal three times on Tuesday, including twice by Jeremy Moore (picked off and caught stealing) and A. Rosario trying to steal home.

The Noteworthy: Reliever Bryan Rembisz made his first relief appearance of the season, facing one hitter and recording an out.

Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

Box Score

The Good: Alexi Amarista collected two more hits on Tuesday, giving him 31 on the season which ties him with four others for most hits in the minors. Alexi's double play partner Darwin Perez (.328) went 3-4 on the night, one of those hits was his 2nd home run on the season. Dillon Baird and Roberto Lopez also collected two hits a piece. The Visalia Oaks had a hard Pil to swallow on Tuesday, as the Korean starting pitcher Pil-Joon Jang shut them down for five innings, giving up just one run on three hits. Jang fanned three. The relievers Robert Fish and Nick Pugliese finished the game in relief giving up no runs and just one hit in the final four innings of work. Between them both, they also struck out seven.

The Bad: Gabe Jacobo and Jon Townsend went 0-10 combined on the night with three strikeouts.

The Noteworthy: Robert Fish has yet to give up a run through 10 2/3 innings of work this season. What's even more impressive of the southpaw is he's struck out 21 and given up just five hits and two walks over those 10 2/3 innings of work thus far.

Cedar Rapids Kernels

Box Score

The Good: Orangel Arenas pitched well, giving up just two runs in six innings of work while striking out six on the night. Mike Trout (.351) went 1-4, but he stole his 10th base of the season. He leads all Angels minor leaguers in that category. Matt Long went 2-4 on the evening.

The Bad: The Kernels struck out 16 times on Tuesday against Clinton's pitching. Carlos Ramirez struck out in all four of his at bats. Jean Segura committed two errors on the night at second base.

The Noteworthy: Oddly enough, out of all of the 16 strikeouts from Kernels hitters on Tuesday, Randal Grichuk who leads the team with 22 whiffs, managed to put the ball in play in all three of his at bats.

*Prospect of the Day: Robert Fish, LHP  Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

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Angels Daily News: Weaver keeps it rolling

Los Angeles Angels News Today
April 27th, 2010

Angels keep things going in right direction
With another quality start from Jered Weaver and a 6-for-12 night from the top three hitters in their lineup, the Angels handed the Cleveland Indians a 5-2 defeat Monday night, poking their heads above .500 (11-10) for the third time in the season's first three weeks.

Saunders could make Angels 5 for 50
Angels left-hander Joe Saunders will be going for his 50th career victory when he starts against the Indians tonight.

Morales: “Maybe even hit a light”
Angels first baseman Kendry Morales has become a TV star in a series of commercials promoting the MLB 2K10 video game. In the spot, Morales sits on a dugout bench with Mariners ace Felix Hernandez, each talking smack in Spanish about how their head-to-head matchups will go.

Weaver keeps rolling in Angels' victory
Right-hander Jered Weaver tossed six strong innings and was backed by home runs from Erick Aybar and Bobby Abreu in the Angels' 5-2 win over the Indians on Monday at Angel Stadium.

Morales blossoming into elite slugger
It will be Cleveland starter Mitch Talbot's job to try to keep hot-hitting Angels slugger Kendry Morales in check on Tuesday in Anaheim.


Jered Weaver delivers again for the Angels
He doesn't have his best stuff but goes six innings, giving up one run, in a 5-2 victory over the Cleveland Indians. Erick Aybar and Bobby...

Abreu points Morales in the right direction
Bobby Abreu has been scorching the baseball lately, with a .455 batting average in the last six games.

Discuss all of the Angels news daily with thousands of other Angels fans on our forum.

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AngelsWin.com Minor League Report: 4-27-2010

Salt Lake Bees

The game between the Salt Lake Bees and the Tacoma Rainers was postponed due to rain. There will be a doubleheader today starting at 7 MDT.

Arkansas Travelers

Box Score

The Good: Andrew Romine, Julio Perez and Paul McAnulty all had two hits on the night, Perez with a two-run home run. Romine lifted his batting average to .317. Jayson Miller (3.68) went seven innings giving up just three runs on six hits. Michael Kohn (1.13) pitched a scoreless ninth to earn the victory in relief.

The Bad: Ryan Mount went 0-4, lowering his batting average to .214 on the season. Mount had a nice two home run game over the weekend, but he's repeating Double-A so he needs to put together a solid season so he can move to the next level in his development.

The Noteworthy: Travs southpaw Manuel Flores (1-2, 6.78 at Rancho Cucamonga) is making his double-A debut tonight against Tulsa.

Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

Box Score

The Good: Gabe Jacobo (.308) had two hits on the night, driving in two runs against the Visalia club. Andrew Taylor (1.64) pitched two scoreless innings, fanning two, without giving up a baserunner. Jose Perez fanned four in two scoreless innings of work.

The Bad: Angel Castillo went 0-3 and struck out all three times. Dillon Baird went 0-5 with two strikeouts.

The Noteworthy: Roberto Lopez (.343) is hitting .413 in his last ten games. The catcher, first baseman and outfielder may move quickly through the organization this season if he continues to excel at these three positions while hitting opposing pitchers at the rate he has.

Cedar Rapids Kernels

The Cedar Rapids Kernels had the day off on Monday.

*Prospect of the Day: Matt Shoemaker SP, RC Quakes and Jayson Miller, SP Arkansas Travelers.

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This Day in Angels Baseball: April 27th, 1981

April 27, 1981 in Oakland the California Angels beat the Oakland Athletics 3-2.  Ken Forsch would pitch a complete game allowing 2 runs and striking out 4, giving him his 3rd win of April.  In the game Don Baylor would drive in runs with a home run and sacrifice fly.  Baylor would also hit into a triple play, one of eight times opponents have accomplished this against the Angels. Also to date there have been 37 times where a player would hit a home run and hit into a triple play in the same game in the majors. The Angels would finish 51-59 in the A.L. West, good for 5th,  during 1981 in the strike shortened season. 1981 is when Gene Mauch would take over as manager mid-season replacing Jim Fregosi and lead the Angels to the American League West title the next year.

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A to Z Angels: David Courtney

Name: David Courtney
Position: Public Address Announcer
Time Period: October 1989 - Present

Since 1994, the fans at Angel Stadium have heard the voice of David Courtney announcing the players, the lineups and promotions throughout each game. He has become a familiar voice to fans who attend regularly and a welcoming voice for fans experiencing a live Angels game for the first time. He is the first and last sound heard over the PA system for all games. Additionally, David works as the PA Announcer for the L.A. Kings and can be heard Monday through Friday on KNX (1070 AM) and KOLA (99.9 FM) radio doing traffic and news. For fans eagerly awaiting the first game of the season, here is a look into the man behind the voice of the stadium.

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This Day in Angels Baseball: April 26th, 1976

On April 26, 1976 the California Angels would lose to the Milwaukee Brewers 1-0 at County Stadium in Milwaukee. Frank Tanana would pitch 8 innings, allowing 1 run on two hits while striking out 12. Tanana came to the Angels as their number one draft pick in 1971. 1976 would be the first year Tanana was selected to the All-Star team as a member of the Angels when he won 19 games with a 2.43 ERA and pitching 23 complete games. That year he would also set the Angels single season low for WHIP at 0.988.

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AngelsWin.com Minor League Report: 4-26-2010

Salt Lake Bees
Sunday's Box Score

The Good: Trevor Bell is back! Bell allowed just one run in 6 2/3 innings on Sunday against the Tacoma Rainers. I was in attendance for the game to witness both the Angels Triple-A prospects, but also Cliff Lee who was making his final tuneup before starting against the Rangers this Friday. Bell's fastball was clocked as high as 96 mph on the day, but sitting in the 90-94 for almost the entire game. The other Trevor, earned his second win on the season (2-0), going five innings and 2/3, while giving up just one run. Reckling did allow four walks on the day vs. four strikeouts. Trumbo hit his 5th home run on the season. He's tied with Paul McAnulty in that department. with five dingers Terry Evans (.438) continued to hit well, going 4-10 over the weekend.

The Bad: While Sean O'Sullivan's strikeout rate is up this season (fanned seven on Saturday and has struck out 23 batters in 22 1/3 innings), Sully gave up five runs on six hits in five innings of work. His ERA is currently at 5.64.

The Noteworthy: Terry Evans leads the team with five stolen bases already, despite joining the team a week after the minor league season started. Peter Bourjos has four.

Arkansas Travelers
Sunday's Box Score

The Good: The offense. What? Yeah, the offense. The Arkansas Travelers produced 21 runs over the weekend. Ryan Mount clubbed two home runs on Saturday, driving in four. Andrew Romine (.304) had two straight mult-hit games (Saturday and Sunday) to raise his average back up over .300.

The Bad: Jordan Walden, Michael Kohn and Ryan Aldridge gave up runs over the weekend. Walden gave up three runs on three hits, including a home run on Saturday. Kohn gave up his first run on the season, in two innings of work on Friday. Aldridge walked three on Sunday, giving up one run on one hit in 2/3 innings of work.

The Noteworthy: The Travs head home for an eight-game home stand beginning Monday with the Tulsa Drillers. The Travelers have not announced a starting pitcher for Monday night's game. It could be Tommy Mendoza who was sent to Arkansas to make room for Trevor Bell on the Bees roster.

Rancho Cucamonga Quakes
Sunday's Box Score

The Good: Alexi Amarista raised his average to .400 on the season with two four hit games over the weekend on Friday and Sunday. Dillion Baird hit his 4th home run. Will Smith pitched six scoreless innings on Sunday, lowering his ERA to 2.55. He did walk five, which is unusual for southpaw with his above average command. Tyler Chatwood pitched well, giving up just two runs over six innings while fanning five on Saturday. He walked just two.Chris Scholl (1.04) fanned three over two scoreless innings. Robert Fish pitched two scoreless innings on Friday, striking out six. The southpaw has fanned 18 batters in just 8 2/3 innings out of the bullpen this year. Fish has yet to give up a run on the season.

The Bad: Darwin Perez committed his 2nd and 3rd errors on the season. Manuarys Correa gave up seven runs on 12 hits in just 4 2/3 innings of work.

The Noteworthy: Roberto Lopez (.343) is hitting .413 in his last ten games. The catcher, first baseman and outfielder may move quickly through the organization this season if he continues to excel at these three positions while hitting opposing pitchers at the rate he has.

Cedar Rapids Kernels
Sunday's Box Score

The Good: Mike Trout (.357) went 0-5 on Friday, but redeemed himself on Saturday by recording three hits, including stealing his 9th base on the season, which leads all Angels' prospects. Tyler Skaggs (0.69) pitched three scoreless innings on Saturday, fanning five. 1B Casey Haerther went 2-3 with a walk and three-run home run on Sunday.

The Bad: Prospect pitchers: Richards (5 IP, 7 ER, 13 H), Corbin (7 IP, 5 ER, 8 H) and F. Martinez  ( 4 2/3 IP, 5 ER, 3 H, 3 BB) were pounded over the weekend. Randal Grichuk went 0-9 over the weekend and is hitting .203 on the season. Grichuk has whiffed 22 times in just 17 games.

The Noteworthy: The Kernels finish their nine game road trip at 4-5. After an off day on Monday, they open a seven game home stand at Perfect Game Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium on Tuesday, April 27th with games against Clinton and Kane County.

*Prospect of the Weekend: Alexi Amarista, 2B Rancho Cucamonga Quakes

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Angels Daily News: Angels find comfort zone

Los Angeles Angels News Today
April 26th, 2010

The Squeeze: Angels 8, Yankees 4

The Yankees came to Anaheim looking to win their sixth consecutive series to open a season for the first time in franchise history. They left having lost two of three to the Angels after an 8-4 defeat Sunday afternoon.

Was that the hit to turn Wood around?
Was that it? Was that the hit that will set Brandon Wood free, releasing him from his own personal 6-for-53 (now) nightmare?

Angels' Wilson 'fuzzy' but holds no grudges over collision
Bobby Wilson never saw what hit him Friday night.But he has seen it since – and so has...

Wood's big hit sparks rally for Angels
The Angels' offense stormed to life behind Scott Kazmir, with Kendry Morales and Bobby Abreu going deep and Brandon Wood delivering a two-run double to power an 8-4 victory over the Yankees on Sunday.

Angels starting to find comfort zone
The Angels won't have much time to savor their series win over the Yankees as they'll have to prepare for a scrappy Cleveland team on Monday night.


Yankees' Joe Girardi regrets going against his gut
The New York manager's decision to pitch to Kendry Morales after initially choosing to intentionally walk the Angels first baseman proves...

Week ahead for the Angels
The Angels host the Cleveland Indians on Monday through Wednesday before traveling to Detroit to take on the Tigers

Wilson X-rays reveal... nothing?
The Angels just announced that team doctor Lewis Yocum's  examination of catcher Bobby Wilson was inconclusive. Yocum couldn't get a good read on the X-ray because of extensive swelling in Wilson's ankle.

Discuss all of the Angels news daily with thousands of other Angels fans on our forum.

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This Day in Angels Baseball: April 25th, 1973

April 25, 1973 at Anaheim Stadium the California Angels would beat the Baltimore Orioles 1-0. Bobby Valentine would drive in the lone run to back the pitching of Bill Singer who went the distance in the game allowing 4 hits while striking out 10. Singer would come to the Angels at the end of 1972 when the L.A. Dodgers would send him, Billy Grabarkewitz, Frank Robinson, Mike Strahler, and Bobby Valentine in a trade for Ken McMullen and Andy Messersmith. Singer would play for the Angels from 1973 through 1975 and in 1973 he would win 20 games in 40 starts also pitching 19 complete games that year. Singer was selected to the 1973 American League All-Star team that year playing for the Angels.

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Coral's Corner: Angels PiNK Clothing Line

By Coral Marshall - AngelsWin.com Columnist

While the Angels may be off to a slow start this season there are still many things for Angels fans, particularly lady fans, to be very excited about. Over the past few years Victoria’s Secret PiNK,line of casual clothes has been working to create a partnership with Major League Baseball to create a line of apparel. Last season a few teams were released, mostly focusing on the Eastern Division clubs. But this year Halos fans who have been seeking to sport cute apparel to show their fandom should rejoice as PiNK has finally come to an agreement with the Angels’- and their clothing line is now available in stores.

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This Day in Angels Baseball: April 24th, 1971

April 24, 1971 saw the California Angels beat the Baltimore Orioles 7-4 at Anaheim Stadium. In the game Roger Repoz would hit a grand-slam in the bottom of the ninth inning to lead the halos to victory. Sandy Alomar would go 2-4 in the game and knock in a run. Alomar would play in 162 games in both 1970 and 1971 earning an All-Star berth in 1970. In 1971 Alomar would steal a career high 42 bases and his 689 at bats that year are an Angel record.

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FOE FODDER: Yankees Return to Big A

By Adam Dodge - AngelsWin.com Senior Writer

This is the first installment of AngelsWin.com’s newest column; and while the goal of Foe Fodder is to bring some humor to the blog, I am not feeling my comedic best at the moment.

Maybe it’s because the Yankees are rolling into town for the first time since beating the Angels in last year’s American League Championship Series and the sting of recollection has dampened my mood.

Maybe it’s because I was recently married and just now realized I will be sharing a bank account with my wife. Accountability has never been one of my strong suits. Looks like I’ll soon be losing my “client” in Temecula. No more midweek runs to Pechanga.

Or maybe, just maybe, it’s the Yankees themselves. The Boston Red Sox have certainly replaced the Pinstripers as public enemy No. 1 in Orange County, but that doesn’t mean we have to roll out the proverbial red carpet for the Bronx Bombers. If you were curious, the answer is YES (pun absolutely intended) — I am trying to squeeze as many monikers for the Yankees as I can into this paragraph. Did you know it was Boston Red Sox President Larry Luchino who termed “The Evil Empire”? Anyhow, the Yanks are in town and there is some noteworthy fodder.

• It is 2010, Yankees … put your damn names on your jerseys. Enough with the “tradition” and “history” spiel. If you’re inclined to continue running out there void of last names in the name of tradition, then forfeit your right to wear modern materials. Wrap your bodies in wool and enjoy asking the equipment manager for a new pair of stockings. 

• Joba Chamberlain continues to be the most abused talking point of local and national play-by-play men and color commentators in all of baseball. We should all be eating sweaty Joba gristle. How could five million flies be wrong?

• Did you hear Derek Jeter retired? Yep. He was recently engaged to girlfriend, Minka Kelly. Beautiful celebrities will have to once again get herpes the old fashioned way, by using the restroom at Paris Hilton’s house. No word if all of Jeter’s exes will attend the wedding. They can always go hiking with huge smiles under a picturesque sunset, if not.

Finally, after so many complaints by readers of the blog that we are homers and wear rose-colored glasses, I vow to bring objectivity to the blog by making thoughtful, in depth predictions for each series featured in Foe Fodder.

Angels take the series, three games to zero.

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AngelsWin.com Prospect Hotlist - 4-23-2010

Hot Prospects April 23rd, 2010

It is with great pleasure that AngelsWin.com brings back its weekly Hot Prospect lists. In our weekly column, we will be providing a look at who’s been hot down on the farm. Unlike our annual Top-50 Prospects, our Hot Prospects column is not ranked based on the ceiling of the prospect, and instead is just a snapshot of the week that just past on the farm. This year, AngelsWin.com will be presenting the Hot Prospect reports every Friday throughout the season.

1. The Arkansas Firemen, Double-A (Kohn, Aldridge, Walden)

Overall Combined: 15 2/3 innings, 1 ER (0.59 ERA), 29 K's

What’s Up: Jordan Walden gave up the first run between the three last night against the Royals Northwest Arkansas club. Before then, the three fireballers went nearly 15 innings combined without giving up a run to start the season. Still, a 0.59 ERA and 29 strikeouts in 15 2/3 innings is as dominant as you can get. What's even more impressive is that between the three, they have only given up four hits. Michael Kohn hasn't given a hit yet and Aldridge has given up just one hit, while striking out 12 in 5 2/3 innings of work.

2. Luis Jimenez, 3B, Low-A Cedar Rapids Kernels

Past 10 Games: (.364), 5 Doubles, 1 triple, 14 RBI's

Overall: .293/.323/.431

What’s Up: Yes you read that right, 14 RBI's in Jimenez last 10 games, including a game winning, base clearing triple back on April 19th against the Oakland A's Low-A Ball club. Known by his teammates as "Lucho", Luis Jimenez won the short season Pioneer League home run crown with 15 homers (beating teammates Angel Castillo (14) and Robert Lopez (14)) a year after leading the rookie level Dominican Summer League with 11 HR's in '07. He also led the Pioneer League in doubles (28) and extra-base hits with 49, helping the Owlz reach the finals. Jimenez missed the entire 2009 minor league season after offseason shoulder surgery.

3. Mike Trout, OF, Low-A Cedar Rapids Kernels

Past 10 Games: (.439), 1 Doubles, 2 triples, 5 RBI's, 8 SB's

Overall: .367/.443/.450

What’s Up: Trout began the season going just 1-13, but he's had a hit in every game since. In his last 10 games, Trout has stolen all eight of his stolen bases on the season, one of those stolen bases was sliding into homeplate for a run. Trout has an impressive 9:9 walk-to-strikeouts ratio, so when he's not lacing line drives from foul line to foul line, he's on base via the walk.

4. Tyler Skaggs, LHP, Low-A Cedar Rapids Kernels

Overall (two starts): 10 IP, 1 ER, 7 H, 4BB, 9 K's (0.90 ERA)

What’s Up: The southpaw looked great in his second start of the season, throwing five scoreless innings against the Oakland A's Low-A Ball club. Skaggs fanned six Kane County Cougars.

5. Terry Evans, OF, Triple-A Salt Lake Bees

Overall (6 Games): .455/.500/.682 with, 2 2B's, 1 HR and 2 SB's

What’s Up: Terry Evans responded immediately with his play after being demoted to Triple-A after making the club out of Spring Training, seeing just one at bat while with the big league club. Evans went 4-5 with a double and two stolen bases on April 20th against the Las Vegas 51's club.

6. Roberto Lopez , 1B/C/OF, High-A RC Quakes

Past 10 Games: .351, 3 2B's, 1 HR, 10 RBI's.

Overall:.321/.385/.482

What’s Up: Roberto Lopez has played everywhere on the diamond it seems in an effort to become a super utility player down the road and possibly find a position that he can stick with. Lopez has seen time in the outfield, at firstbase and even behind the dish for the Quakes. Lopez could be Robb Quinlan's future replacement.

7. Sean O'Sullivan, RHP, Triple-A Salt Lake Bees

Last Start: 6 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 6 K's

Overall: 4.67 ERA, 1-1, 17.1 IP, 16 K's, 1.21 WHIP

What’s Up: Sully has notched two straight quality starts for the Salt Lake Bees, fanning 15 hitters in 12 and 2/3 innings of work. The increased strikeouts is something to take note of. He struck out just 29 batters in 51 and 2/3 innings in 2009.

8. John Hellweg, RHP, Low-A Cedar Rapids Kernels

Past 3 Games:3 2/3 IP, 6 K's, no runs

Overall: 6.75 ERA, 2 Saves

What’s Up: The 6'9 reliever who brings the heat at 95-98 MPH has shut down opposing hitters in his last three appearances. In 3 2/3 innings of work, Hellweg has fanned six batters. Hellweg's first appearance of the the season wasn't too pretty, as he gave up three runs on three walks and one hit in a 1/3 inning of work.

9. Garrett Richards, RHP, Low-A Cedar Rapids Kernels

Last Start: 5.1 IP, 1 ER, 5 BB, 8 K's

Overall: 1.10 ERA, 16.1 IP, 20 K's, 8 BB, .196 BAA

What’s Up: Richards looked dominant in his last start striking out eight batters through 5 and 1/3 innings. Richards had a heavy mid 90's fastball working for him and his breaking ball generated some ugly swings. He did struggled a bit with the control of his secondary stuff, resulting in five walks. Richards starts tonight against Burlington.

10. Dillon Baird, 3B, High-A RC Quakes

Past 10 Games: .289, 2 HR's, 4 2B's, 7 RBI's

Overall: .259/.349/.519 with 3 HR's

What’s Up: The Angels saw enough of what Baird could do with the bat last season with the Orem Owlz that they decided to have Baird skip a level and go right to High-A Ball with the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes. Baird has three multi-hit games in his last five contests, including a 3-3, 2 HR performance on the 20th against Lake Elsinore. His other hit was a double and he also walked in the game.

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AngelsWin.com Minor League Report: 4-23-2010

Salt Lake Bees
Box Score

The Good: Trumbo, Conger, and Evans all had 2 hits a piece on a night when the whole team only had 8 hits.  Tommy Mendoza struck out 5 in 5.1 IP and only allowed 1 run, while Francisco Rodriguez pitched 2.1 scoreless innings to earn the win.

The Bad: Base stealing. Evans and Gorneault were both picked off of 1st base during the game.

The Noteworthy: The Bees offense really mixed things up to get the win.  In the 6th inning, Conger led off the inning with a bunt single.  In the 9th inning, Trumbo stole his first base of the season which led to him scoring the winning run.

Arkansas Travelers
Box Score

The Good: An ugly loss for the Travelers. Not much to report here, although 2B Abel Nieves was 2 for 3 with 2 doubles and a walk.

The Bad: Pitching. Everyone who pitched gave up at least a run, including Walden who gave up his first run as a reliever. The worst came from Taylor Wilding who gave up 6 runs in 0.1 IP.

The Noteworthy: The Travelers are really struggling right now, having lost 5 games in a row.  The highly touted Kansas City Royals prospect Mike Moustakas made his Double-A debut for the Northwest Arkansas Naturals and he went 3 for 4 with 2 HRs, a double, and 4 RBIs against the Travelers. This morning the Angels sent Tommy Mendoza from triple-A to the Travs replacing Jayson Miller in the starting pitching rotation. Miller went to class-A Rancho Cucamonga before Thursday's loss to Northwest Arkansas.

Rancho Cucamonga Quakes
Box Score

The Good: Leading off outfielder Tyson Auer went 3 for 4 with 3 runs scored.  Dillon Baird went 2 for 4 with a double and 2 RBIs.  Roberto Lopez went 2 for 4 with a run scored.

The Bad: Manuel Flores took the loss giving up 5 runs and 12 hits in 6.2 IP.

The Noteworthy: Left handed reliever Andrew Taylor is back to his productive ways, pitching 1.2 innings of shutout ball, striking out 3.

Cedar Rapids Kernels
Box Score

The Good: 3B prospect Luis Jimenez is showing that he has recovered from his torn labrum which cost him all of last year.  He went 2 for 4 with a 2 RBIs and a run scored and has gone 16 for 44 (.364) in his last 10 games. 

The Bad: Lefty Tyler Kehrer got hammered pretty hard last night, giving up 7 runs on 5 hits and 5 walks in just 3.2 IP.  The defense didn’t help and committed 4 errors in the game. 

The Noteworthy: Mike Trout extended his hitting streak to 12 games, going 1 for 4 with an SB.  

*Prospect of the Day: Mark Trumbo, 1B Salt Lake Bees

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