The PhoulBallz Minor League Podcast is back with its 27th episode. On this edition of the show, Phillies outfield prospect Kelly Dugan calls in to chat with the guys. Additionally, Jay and Tug discuss shortstop Roman Quinn's recent offensive improvements leading the way for the Class A Lakewood BlueClaws as well as righty pitcher Perci Garner's success with Class A Advanced Clearwater. Some breaking TheFightins.com news is announced and discussions also include Brian Gump, Bill Rice and some local independent league clubs.
Use the media player below to stream the full episode, or simply download it by clicking HERE.
You can also check out previous episodes and subscribe on iTunes.
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Aumont Demoted, Real Problems Remain on Roster
For a club that entered that evening's contest with a bullpen ERA that ranked 4th worst in all of Major League Baseball, surely some adjustments were in order. However, Aumont was not the problem. As recently as Sunday, the 24-year-old righty's season ERA was 2.92 and sat at 2.25 last Friday. After coughing up two earned runs in 2/3 of an inning on Monday, Aumont's season ERA rose to an unlucky 4.15 in 16 games.
Surely Aumont, who gave up runs in each of his two most recent appearances and who sported the worst WHIP (2.08) on the pitching staff, hadn't been sparkling as of late, but he had an ERA better than the Phils' stud 8th inning guy Mike Adams just last weekend.
And even with his recent efforts, or lack there of, Aumont's 4.15 ERA and K-per-9 rate of 10.38 ERA were considerably better than the numbers posted by Jeremy Horst (5.09 ERA and 5.60 K/9), Chad Durbin (8.10 ERA and 9.45 K/9) and anything B.J. Rosenberg can do for the Phils.
Triple-A hurler Mike Stutes, who has been blazing hot out of the IronPigs bullpen lately, as he's tallied a 0.59 ERA over his last 11 games with 14 strike outs and three walks during that stretch, is deserving of consideration for a promotion and could be the guy that fills the void left by Aumont.
In 63 career big league contests, the 26-year-old Stutes has a 6-2 record along with 3.86 ERA. Stutes missed much of last season after requiring shoulder surgery in June.
Again, there's no question that some revamping was needed in order to improve the Phillies' relief corps, but there are multiple pitchers hurting the team worse than Aumont had been. Here's hoping the move is temporary and the 6-foot-7 260-pounder gets the chance to work on his command and the silver lining of a potential Stutes return sees his success continue.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
PhoulBallz Interview: Former Phillies RHP Tyson Brummett
Through nine games with NH thus far this season, Brummett is without a win and sports a 5.91 ERA, but tossed six shutout innings against his former club, Reading, early this month.
Recently, I spoke with Tyson about the differences between the Phils and Blue Jays organizations, his time playing in the Venezuelan Winter League, facing top Phils prospect Jesse Biddle and plenty more. Read ahead for that full interview.
- What would you say are the key differences between the Phillies and Blue Jays organizations?
There's always a lot of differences. I was in that organization for a long time. I grew up with a lot of those guys, you know, roommates and people like that, coming up through the ranks. This is my first time in a different organization, obviously there are new people, new faces. At the end of the day, it's still baseball. You've gotta go out there and perform and do all those fun things on the field.
- I saw you earlier this month out in Reading, competing against your old organization and matching a great performance by their top prospect, Jesse Biddle. Do you get up when facing the Phillies and does it make a difference facing the guy that's their top prospect?
I mean it's always...you get up to face your old organization. I know there's guys that jump around and have played for three or four different organizations. I think there's that kind of connection there. They know you and you know them and things like that, but you always want to go out and put on a show for the team that you used to be with and obviously the team that you're with against your old team. Kind of like giving a message like, "Hey, I can still help a team win."
As for Biddle, that kid's got a great future ahead of him. He's definitely on his way to a very good career.
- I spoke with your teammate Kevin Pillar and he admitted to me that, after that outing against Biddle in Reading when he threw six scoreless innings and struck out 10, Pillar had the date circled on his calendar for another shot at him. Did you get the vibe from a lot of the Fisher Cats players that they all felt the same way?
Oh, yeah! Definitely, with how things started over there (in Reading), both times we've faced him, he's gotten into a little bit of trouble early. He got lucky over there. The one up there in Manchester, he wasn't lucky. He walked a couple guys, hit a pitch count and stuff like that. I think that's how we all are, competitors. If I pitch bad against a team, I want to go back at them and get them again. I'm sure with hitters, for anyone that's a top prospect that gets the best of you, or with anyone that kind of makes them look stupid, so they want to circle the date or wonder, "When's the next time we get to take a crack at him?"
- In recent years you've gotten to pitch in the winter leagues, when you've completed in Venezuela. What can you tell me about enjoying success down there?
Winters leagues are fun. I've been down there the past two years. My first year down there I had what anyone would call my better winter league experience. I mean, I came kind of toward the end of November. Pitched there, started real hot, made the playoffs, went to the Caribbean World Series. So, I kind of got the whole caboodle all in one take. My first year down there I was kind of amazed. I have a special spot in my heart for that stuff. It's good competition. The guys that are there are former big league players, or guys from that country that are on their way to the big leagues. Just a good competition. The fans love it. I mean, they're, I think, I've never been to a European soccer game, but I imagine they're comparable. They save up all week to go to one game. It's a riot.
- I spoke to Darin Ruf last year after he got back from playing in Venezuela and he talked about how welcoming the native players are because they know that you're foreign. He said it kind pays forward because you all do the same for those guys that come to play here. Did you get that same vibe?
Oh, yeah. Whenever they come up here, obviously we have our little quirks and the crazy things that we do, but when you go down there, it's they're world and you have to appreciate their things and you're kind of like the Lone Ranger. Most of the people down there in the Latin communities, they're welcoming because they know that you went out of your comfort zone to go down there. So, if you put on a good performance and you're a good player, then they'll like you that much more. It's a fun experience.
- And just back on the topic of your team here for the regular season, I know you mentioned you were with the Triple-A team for a short stretch and now, of course, with New Hampshire. Who has been the biggest help to you thus far in the Blue Jays system?
I mean, honestly, there's a lot of veteran guys both here, in Double-A and at Triple-A. I think I probably learned the most, it was my first big league (spring training) this year, I had a lot of guys that I played with and Northwoods League and collegiate leagues. Once you've played this game and you move around, it's hard to not run into somebody you've played and vice versa. It's just really good communication over here. Lots of friends. They went out this year and picked up a lot of veteran guys, so it's a lot of guys that have been all over the place, so you feel like you have an instant connection with them, 'cause they're kind of in the same boat you are. I think overall it's pretty welcoming.
- Have you been up north of the border, to Toronto, since the team acquired you?
I haven't been up to Toronto yet. Just been up to Buffalo for a week, but I'm looking forward to a shot at it.
Monday, May 20, 2013
Series Preview: Phillies at Marlins, May 20-22
The Phillies (21-23) hit the road this week, beginning a three-game series against the Marlins (12-23) in Miami on Monday night.
Looking to get back on the positive side of .500, the Phillies will kick off the series with two of their main stars ailing, as Ryan Howard is sidelined with right knee soreness and Carlos Ruiz left Sunday's contest against the Reds with a right hamstring issue.
The Phils have won four of seven meetings with Miami thus far this season.
Read ahead for full details on the pitching match ups from this series and plenty more key stats from this series.
Monday, 7:10 PM. Cole Hamels (1-6, 4.61 ERA) vs. Alex Sanabia (2-6, 5.00 ERA). In four road starts this year, Hamels is 1-2 with a 3.52 ERA. In 26 career starts against the Marlins, Hamels is 8-11 with a 3.24 ERA. In two career starts against the Phils, Sanabia is 0-1 with a 2.45 ERA. Sanabia is 1-3 with a 5.70 ERA in four home starts this season. Jimmy Rollins is 0-for-6 against the right-handed Sanabia.
Tuesday, 7:10 PM. Tyler Cloyd (0-0, 2.84 ERA) vs. Jose Fernandez (2-2, 3.48 ERA). Cloyd gave up just two hits and two earned runs in his lone MLB start this season against Arizona on May 10th. Cloyd was 1-4 with a 6.57 ERA in seven starts for Triple-A Lehigh Valley this year. In two starts against the Phillies this season, the rookie Fernandez is 1-0 with no runs allowed in 13 innings pitched. Fernandez has a 2.12 ERA with a .169 batting average against in three home starts this season. Fernandez, a righty, was the Marlins' 1st round draft pick in 2011.
Wednesday, 7:10 PM. Cliff Lee (4-2, 2.83 ERA) vs. Kevin Slowey (1-4, 3.44 ERA). Lee is 3-1 with a 2.00 ERA in five road starts this season. In his past three starts, Lee is 2-0 with a 1.64 ERA. In three career starts against the Phils, the right-handed Slowey is 1-0 with a 5.14 ERA. Slowey held the Phillies scoreless over seven innings on May 5th, to lock down a win. Ryan Howard is 3-for-7 (.429 avg) with a double and a home run in his career against Slowey.
In 12 road games this year, Freddy Galvis is batting .400 with two homers and three RBI. Galvis is a .294 career hitter in 10 games against the Marlins.
Michael Young is batting .211 in 16 games this month. In 21 games against the Marlins in his career, Young is a .289 hitter with five doubles and nine RBI.
Chase Utley is batting .308 with four home runs and 15 RBI in 21 road games this season.
Placido Polanco has a career .287 average with three doubles and four RBI in 28 games against the Phillies. Polanco is batting .239 in 20 home games this season.
Heading into action on Sunday, righty hitting opponents were batting .115 against Marlins closer Steve Cishek while lefties had tallied a .316 average.
Rookie outfielder Marcell Ozuna is 8-for-16 with four doubles a homer and eight RBI in four career games against the Phillies. Ozuna is batting .286 in eight home games.
PNTV Interview: Australian Pitching Prospect Josh Warner
Australian pitcher Josh Warner began the 2013 season as a member of the starting rotation for the Class A Lakewood BlueClaws. Through six starts, the 20-year-old right-hander posted a 1-3 record along with a 7.50 ERA. Phillies brass decided to reassign Warner to extended spring training so he could make some adjustments to his delivery aimed at enhancing his deception toward hitters.
The Queensland native, who pitches for the Brisbane Bandits in the Australian Baseball League during the off-season, was signed by the Phils as an amateur free agent in 2010. Combined over the past two seasons, since making his affiliated pro debut, Warner has split his time with the Gulf Coast League Phillies, the Williamsport Crosscutters and Lakewood, posting a combined 7-13 record along with a 5.28 ERA.
Early this season I spoke with Josh for Phillies Nation TV, but the segment went unused on the television program. During the interview, Josh spoke about the growth of baseball down under, his time in the ABL and more. Check out the interview in the media player below and tune into Phillies Nation TV every Tuesday at 6 PM on The Comcast Network.
Additionally, if you missed last week's edition of PNTV, which featured my recent interview with top Phillies pitching prospect Jesse Biddle, check it out below. Clearly, you'll wish to view the entire episode, but if you wish to see my interview first, it comes on at about the 20 minute mark.
The Queensland native, who pitches for the Brisbane Bandits in the Australian Baseball League during the off-season, was signed by the Phils as an amateur free agent in 2010. Combined over the past two seasons, since making his affiliated pro debut, Warner has split his time with the Gulf Coast League Phillies, the Williamsport Crosscutters and Lakewood, posting a combined 7-13 record along with a 5.28 ERA.
Early this season I spoke with Josh for Phillies Nation TV, but the segment went unused on the television program. During the interview, Josh spoke about the growth of baseball down under, his time in the ABL and more. Check out the interview in the media player below and tune into Phillies Nation TV every Tuesday at 6 PM on The Comcast Network.
Additionally, if you missed last week's edition of PNTV, which featured my recent interview with top Phillies pitching prospect Jesse Biddle, check it out below. Clearly, you'll wish to view the entire episode, but if you wish to see my interview first, it comes on at about the 20 minute mark.
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Minors Notes: Who's Hot, Who's Cold & Venezuelan Summer League Begins
It's time for the weekly rundown of minor league notes, taking a look at who is hot and who is not, from each team. Stats and standing accurate through game action played on Saturday.
Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs (18-24, 4th place, North Division International League)-
Hot list...
Third baseman Cody Asche has hit safely in 12 of his last 13 contests. In his last 10 games, Asche is batting .326 with two doubles, two home runs and 10 RBI. The 22-year-old was the Phillies' 4th round pick in 2011 out of the University of Nebraska.
Cold list...
Joe Savery has allowed nine earned runs in one total inning over his last two appearances with the IronPigs. Savery, whose season ERA in the International League sits at 5.87, sported a 0.63 mark this season prior to his most recent two appearances.
Lefty starter Adam Morgan has a 0-4 record along with an 8.33 ERA over his last five games. The University of Alabama product was the Phillies' 3rd round draft pick in 2011. Morgan, a Georgia native, is 23-years-old.
Double-A Reading Fightin Phils (15-25, last place, East Division Eastern League)-
Hot list...
OF Tyson Gillies went 9-for-23 (.391 avg) with six RBI over a stretch of six starts this week. Overall through 13 games with Reading, Gillies has a .244 average with three doubles and a stolen base.
First baseman Jim Murphy is 13-for-30 (.433 avg) with four doubles, a triple, three homers and nine nine RBI over his previous nine games. Murphy, 27, leads the Eastern League in total bases with 88.
Cold list...
Right-handed starter Seth Rosin is 0-1 with a 5.51 ERA in three starts this month. The 23-year-old, who was acquired in the Hunter Pence trade with the Giants last year, is 1-3 with a 3.95 ERA in eight starts this season.
Class A Advanced Clearwater Threshers (21-20, 3rd place, North Division Florida State League)-
Hot list...
Third baseman Maikel Franco is 8-for-25 (.320 avg) with a double, a triple and two homers over his last six games. Franco, a Dominican native, is 20-years-old.
Righty reliever Chris Nichols, who was added to the Threshers' roster this week out of extended spring training, has made three scoreless appearances since joining the active roster. The 22-year-old University of Sioux Falls product was a 31st round draft choice by the Phillies last year.
Outfielder Cameron Perkins leads the FSL in hits with 56 and ranks second in the league in average with a .354 mark. The 22-year-old was the Phils' 6th round draft selection last year out of Purdue University.
Cold list...
Shortstop Jose Mojica has gone 3-for-26 (.115 avg) over his last seven games. Prior to his recent slow stretch, the 24-year-old Mojica was among the Florida State League's top hitters with a .354 average.
Following a four-game stretch in which he went 4-0 with a 0.75 ERA, lefty starter Hoby Milner has thrown back to back outings with no decisions while allowing six earned runs in 11 innings (4.91 ERA). Milner was a 7th round draft pick out of the University of Texas last year.
Class A Lakewood BlueClaws (17-24, 6th place, North Division in South Atlantic League)-
Hot list...
Larry Greene Jr. posted a seven-game hitting streak that ended on Saturday. During the streak, Greene was 10-for-23 (.435 average). Overall in 23 games, Greene, the Phils' 1st round draft choice in 2011, is batting .227 with four doubles and eight RBI.
Outfielder Zach Taylor is 11-for-25 (.440 avg) with four doubles, two home runs and six RBI in his last seven games. Taylor, who is batting .306 in 22 games, was selected in the 12th round of the 2012 draft by the Phillies.
Cold list...
Infielder Angelo Mora is 1-for-19 (.053 avg) in his last six games. The 20-year-old Dominican is batting .109 in 13 games this month.
Venezuelan Summer League Phillies (4-0 record, 1st place)-
Hot list...
Catcher/first baseman Wilson Garcia is 9-for-17 (.529 avg) with a double, a homer and eight RBI thus far. The switch-hitting 19-year-old is in his third season in the VSL.
Gregori Rivero, a 17-year-old, is 7-for-17 (.412 avg) with a double and a triple. Rivero, a catcher, was signed by the Phillies last July.
Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs (18-24, 4th place, North Division International League)-
Hot list...
 |
| Cody Asche with Reading in 2012 |
Cold list...
Joe Savery has allowed nine earned runs in one total inning over his last two appearances with the IronPigs. Savery, whose season ERA in the International League sits at 5.87, sported a 0.63 mark this season prior to his most recent two appearances.
Lefty starter Adam Morgan has a 0-4 record along with an 8.33 ERA over his last five games. The University of Alabama product was the Phillies' 3rd round draft pick in 2011. Morgan, a Georgia native, is 23-years-old.
Double-A Reading Fightin Phils (15-25, last place, East Division Eastern League)-
Hot list...
 |
| Reading OF Tyson Gillies |
First baseman Jim Murphy is 13-for-30 (.433 avg) with four doubles, a triple, three homers and nine nine RBI over his previous nine games. Murphy, 27, leads the Eastern League in total bases with 88.
Cold list...
Right-handed starter Seth Rosin is 0-1 with a 5.51 ERA in three starts this month. The 23-year-old, who was acquired in the Hunter Pence trade with the Giants last year, is 1-3 with a 3.95 ERA in eight starts this season.
Class A Advanced Clearwater Threshers (21-20, 3rd place, North Division Florida State League)-
Hot list...
 |
| Maikel Franco with Lakewood in 2012 |
Righty reliever Chris Nichols, who was added to the Threshers' roster this week out of extended spring training, has made three scoreless appearances since joining the active roster. The 22-year-old University of Sioux Falls product was a 31st round draft choice by the Phillies last year.
Outfielder Cameron Perkins leads the FSL in hits with 56 and ranks second in the league in average with a .354 mark. The 22-year-old was the Phils' 6th round draft selection last year out of Purdue University.
Cold list...
Shortstop Jose Mojica has gone 3-for-26 (.115 avg) over his last seven games. Prior to his recent slow stretch, the 24-year-old Mojica was among the Florida State League's top hitters with a .354 average.
Following a four-game stretch in which he went 4-0 with a 0.75 ERA, lefty starter Hoby Milner has thrown back to back outings with no decisions while allowing six earned runs in 11 innings (4.91 ERA). Milner was a 7th round draft pick out of the University of Texas last year.
Class A Lakewood BlueClaws (17-24, 6th place, North Division in South Atlantic League)-
Hot list...
 |
| Lakewood OF Larry Greene Jr. |
Outfielder Zach Taylor is 11-for-25 (.440 avg) with four doubles, two home runs and six RBI in his last seven games. Taylor, who is batting .306 in 22 games, was selected in the 12th round of the 2012 draft by the Phillies.
Cold list...
Infielder Angelo Mora is 1-for-19 (.053 avg) in his last six games. The 20-year-old Dominican is batting .109 in 13 games this month.
Venezuelan Summer League Phillies (4-0 record, 1st place)-
Hot list...
Catcher/first baseman Wilson Garcia is 9-for-17 (.529 avg) with a double, a homer and eight RBI thus far. The switch-hitting 19-year-old is in his third season in the VSL.
Gregori Rivero, a 17-year-old, is 7-for-17 (.412 avg) with a double and a triple. Rivero, a catcher, was signed by the Phillies last July.
Friday, May 17, 2013
Series Preview: Reds at Phillies, May 17-19
Winners of six straight games, the Reds are in second place in the National League central division, 1 1/2 games back of first place St. Louis. The Phillies, fresh off a two-game split with Cleveland, are in third place in the NL East, 3 1/2 games behind first place Atlanta and three games back of second place Washington.
In the series opener, the Reds will send rookie Tony Cingrani to the mound. Cingrani, who is a Rice University product, lasted just four innings in his last outing against Milwaukee, but did not factor in the decision. The Phils will counter with ace Cliff Lee, is undefeated with a 1.83 ERA in his previous five starts against Cincinnati.
The Reds swept the Phillies in three games in Cincinnati last month.
Read ahead for full details on the pitching match ups and other key details from this series.
Friday, 7:05 PM. Tony Cingrani (2-0, 2.89 ERA) vs. Cliff Lee (4-2, 2.86 ERA). In two road starts this season, the lefty Cingrani is 1-0 with a 3.00 ERA and a .122 batting average against. Cingrani was the Reds' 3rd round draft choice in 2011. In 12 career starts against the Reds, Lee has a 6-2 record with a 3.79 ERA. Joey Votto is 7-for-16 (.438 avg) with a home run against Lee in his career. Lee has a 4.35 ERA in three home starts this season.
Saturday, 4:05 PM. Bronson Arroyo (3-4, 3.76 ERA) vs. Kyle Kendrick (4-1, 2.47 ERA). In 12 career outings against the Phils, Arroyo has a 3-7 record with a 6.00 ERA. Arroyo is 1-2 with a 9.60 ERA in three career starts at Citizens Bank Park. Domonic Brown is 4-for-8 with two doubles and a homer against Arroyo in his career. In eight career games against Cincinnati, Kendrick has a 3-2 record with a 4.19 ERA. Kendrick has a 4.01 ERA in four home starts this season. Kendrick has a 1.84 ERA in his last seven starts. Jay Bruce is 5-for-14 (.357 avg) with two homers in his career against his Kendrick.
Sunday, 1:35 PM. Homer Bailey (2-3, 3.51 ERA) vs. Jonathan Pettibone (3-0, 3.41 ERA). In seven career regular season starts against the Phillies, the righty Bailey is 0-3 with a 4.24 ERA. Bailey has a 1-3 record with a 4.78 ERA in four road starts this season. Ben Revere is 3-for-6 in his career against Bailey. Pettibone is 2-0 with a 2.45 ERA in three home starts this season. Opponents are batting .266 against Pettibone in five big league starts.
In 36 career regular season games against the Phillies, Jay Bruce has a .308 average with 10 homers and 28 RBI. Bruce is batting .316 with runners on base this season.
Brandon Phillips is batting .324 with five HR and 20 RBI in 17 road games this year. Phillips is a .262 hitter in 52 career regular season games against the Phils and is a .224 hitter in 26 regular season games at Citizens Bank Park.
Aroldis Chapman has not allowed a run in six career appearances against the Phillies. Chapman has a 4.76 ERA on the road this season.
Jonathan Papelbon has allowed three earned runs in four career innings pitched against the Reds. Papelbon has not allowed a run in seven home outings this season.
In 19 home games this season, Domonic Brown is batting .242 with five home runs and seven RBI.
Ryan Howard is batting .302 with four homers and 10 RBI in 18 home games this season. Howard is a .263 hitter in 60 career regular season games against the Reds.
Reds team OPS- .782 (11th in MLB)
Phillies team OPS- .682 (26th in MLB)
PhoulBallz Minor League Podcast: Episode 26
It's the 26th episode of the PhoulBallz Minor League Podcast. On this edition of the show, Tug and Jay talk about baseball coming second for many minor league teams, Lakewood's upcoming South Atlantic League All-Star events, the Phillies' bullpen and Tug's annoyance level related to happenings with TheFightins.com. Jay also serves up an exclusive interview with prospect Zach Collier.
Use the media player below to stream the full episode, or simply download it by clicking HERE.
You can also check out previous episodes and subscribe on iTunes.
Use the media player below to stream the full episode, or simply download it by clicking HERE.
You can also check out previous episodes and subscribe on iTunes.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
PhoulBallz Interview: RHP Prospect Nic Hanson
Recently, I had the opportunity to chat with Nic and he spoke about his success, his best friend who is also a player, his offerings on the mound and plenty more. Read ahead for that full interview.
- You're on a hot streak now and doing very well as a starter after relieving to start the season. What can you tell me about your early success this season?
I'm just kind of getting used to my new stuff. I started throwing that sinker now and (pitching coach Aaron Fultz) has really been helping me and we're watching video a little bit and I'm kind of getting used to my stuff. That's basically it, just going out there and learning every time.
- What's your full pitching repertoire right now?
Right now, four-seam fastball, sinker, slider, change up.
- You mentioned the new addition of a sinker. Who initiated that? How did that come about?
I used to throw it as a little kid. It was the only way I knew how to throw a fastball, I'd kind of throw it differently than a regular two-seamer. And I felt like I needed another pitch other than a four-season fastball. My dad told me, toward the end of spring training, "Why don't you throw that pitch?" So, I threw it the last start of spring training and it worked well. So, I figured I might as well stick with it and I've been throwing it out here. It's been getting better every time, so I'm happy with it.
- If I were to ask you to scout yourself, what would you say?
I would say 6-foot-7, strike thrower, good plane when he gets on top, good sinker, slider is the our pitch and the change up's getting there. It's developing, but it can be good at times.
- We talked about you changing roles a bit. Do you have a preference for where you pitch?
I mean, I think most people like to start, but as long as I'm playing baseball, I have fun. Bullpen, starting, whatever, I have fun. I'd like to keep going as a starter. I like knowing when I am going to pitch and getting an opportunity to pitch an extended amount of innings, get in a groove and get the feel for it.
- The draft last year...what was that experience like for you?
It was a little bit of a stressful day for a lot of people. I didn't go where I thought I was gonna go, but went (as) the Phillies' first pick on the third day. It was a happy time. Family was stoked, friends were stoked. I got an opportunity and wanted to go with it.
- You spent last season with Williamsport after being drafted. How do you feel your time in Williamsport went and how was your first exposure to pro ball?
It was a learning experience, definitely. I didn't really know what to expect, coming from junior college, you know. It was kind of different facing these guys that you see on ESPNU and all these big time prospects and stuff. But, it was just a big learning experience getting used to the pro baseball way, how to compete and just confidence and all that.
- I know you're a California guy. Who did you look up to as a player before turning pro?
I was a, well, pitcher- Jered Weaver. I was a big Jered Weaver fan. Position player...I was a big Garrett Anderson fan. I grew up an Angels fan.
- As a pro now, if you had the opportunity to speak to young players that were hoping to play baseball being high school, whether it's college or professionally, what advice would you give?
Stick with it. Never give up. I didn't play baseball my junior year, I was out of the game. Just kind of didn't know what I was going to do and I got back in the game. I would just tell them never give up. Always keep going. Work hard and stay positive.
- It seems you've got a connection in the pro ranks that may have had some impact on bringing you back to the game in those high school years. You know, a close friend named Henry Owens, who is a Red Sox prospect. Just talk about that a little bit.
Yeah, I grew up with Henry. Actually, he lives in my neighborhood, right behind me. We grew up together, playing baseball together, always been good friends. And once he got drafted, in 2011 and I got drafted last draft, so we lived together in the off-season. We just worked out together, talked the game together and he had a full season ahead of me and he kind of gave me some pointers and let me know what to expect and stuff and it's been beneficial, definitely.
- I know you're on Twitter (@Nic_Hanson75). How do you view Twitter? Some guys might look at it as a way to build their own brand, some guys use it to bond with fans, some guys keep track of friends in other levels. How do you view it?
I guess, well, right now, being in Single A, it's kind of just communicating with the teammates in the off-season and seeing how other guys are doing. I guess down the road, being in the big leagues and stuff it can help you be a fan favorite.
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Series Preview: Indians at Phillies, May 14-15
Having won seven of their last 10 contests, the Indians look to continue their success against the Phils, who were pounded by a total score of 20-2 over two games, both losses, in Cleveland a couple weeks back.
Read ahead for full details on the pitching match ups and more key details from this series.
Tuesday, 7:05 PM. Scott Kazmir (2-1, 4.87 ERA) vs. Jonathan Pettibone (2-0, 3.63 ERA). The lefty Kazmir has a 2.65 ERA over his last three starts. Kazmir won his lone career start against the Phillies back in 2006. In two home starts, the rookie right-hander Pettibone is 1-0 with a 2.31 ERA. Opponents are hitting .154 with runners in scoring position against Pettibone.
Wednesday, 1:05 PM. Corey Kluber (2-2, 5.64 ERA) vs. Cole Hamels (1-5, 4.18 ERA). The righty Kluber has a 5.77 ERA in nine career road games. Delmon Young is 3-for-6 with a double in his career against Kluber. Hamels is 0-1 with six runs allowed in five innings pitched in his lone career start against Cleveland. In four home starts this season, Hamels is 0-3 with a 4.71 ERA. Mark Reynolds is 2-for-10 with two home runs in his career against Hamels.
Indians closer Chris Perez has a 5.06 ERA in five career games against the Phillies.
Mark Reynolds is batting .322 in 17 road games this season. In 27 games against the Phils, Reynolds is a .260 hitter with eight home runs and 20 RBI. Reynold is tied for the American League lead in HR with 11.
In 12 career games at Citizens Bank Park, Jason Giambi has a .348 average with five homers and 10 RBI. Giambi is batting .158 in six road games this season.
In 34 career games against the Indians, Ben Revere is a .294 hitter with 13 steals.
Carlos Ruiz is 1-for-16 (.063 avg) in four career games against Cleveland. Ruiz is a career .267 hitter in 365 games at Citizens Bank Park.
Ryan Howard has a .355 average with two homers in eight games against the Indians. In 16 home games this year, Howard is batting .321 four home runs and 10 RBI.
Indians team runs scored- 178 (6th in MLB)
Phillies team runs scored- 138 (25th in MLB)
Indians team bullpen ERA- 2.77 (4th in MLB)
Phillies team bullpen ERA- 4.00 (22nd in MLB)
Monday, May 13, 2013
PNTV Interview: Lakewood Pitching Coach Aaron Fultz
Former Phillies left-handed reliever Aaron Fultz now serves as the pitching coach for the Class A Lakewood BlueClaws. The Alabama native spent his first season as a pro coach, last year, with the short-season Williamsport Crosscutters.
During his playing career, Fultz's best season was 2005, when he tallied a 4-0 record with a 2.24 ERA in 62 appearances for the Phils. Fultz also played in the big leagues with the Twins, the Rangers, the Giants and the Indians.
Early this season, I interviewed Aaron for Phillies Nation TV. The 39-year-old spoke about his time with the Phillies, his transition into coaching and some of his pitching prospects. The segment went unused on the TV program, but we definitely wanted to bring it to the fans anyway. Check out the interview in the media player below and tune into Phillies Nation TV every Tuesday at 6 PM on The Comcast Network. The program also replays throughout the week, so check your listings.
During his playing career, Fultz's best season was 2005, when he tallied a 4-0 record with a 2.24 ERA in 62 appearances for the Phils. Fultz also played in the big leagues with the Twins, the Rangers, the Giants and the Indians.
Early this season, I interviewed Aaron for Phillies Nation TV. The 39-year-old spoke about his time with the Phillies, his transition into coaching and some of his pitching prospects. The segment went unused on the TV program, but we definitely wanted to bring it to the fans anyway. Check out the interview in the media player below and tune into Phillies Nation TV every Tuesday at 6 PM on The Comcast Network. The program also replays throughout the week, so check your listings.
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Minor League Notes: the Hot, the Cold, the Injured and the Departed
In the latest rundown of developmental notes, we'll take a glance at some top performers, several guys who aren't doing too well, a couple sidelined prospects and a group of former Phillies minor leaguers...
The Hot List-
Lakewood righty Nic Hanson has not been scored upon in two outings (11 total innings) since moving from the BlueClaws' bullpen to their starting rotation. A 16th round pick in last year's draft out of Golden West College, Hanson, 21, has a 1-0 record with a save and a 3.38 ERA in eight games.
Class A Advanced Clearwater outfielder Cameron Perkins has been performing extremely well this month. In 10 games, the 22-year-old has posted a .385 average with six doubles, a triple, a homer and six RBI. Perkins was selected in the 6th round of the 2012 draft out of Purdue University.
Dominican hurler Gabriel Arias has looked great for the Clearwater Threshers, going 4-1 with a 1.25 ERA through nine outings (four starts). The 23-year-old has regularly had his fastball clocked at 95 MPH over the past year.
Double-A Reading catcher Cameron Rupp, whose batting average had been as low as .211 this past week, decided to shave his goatee for a change of luck. Since going bald faced, the 24-year-old has gone 5-for-12 with three home runs and five RBI in three contests. Rupp was drafted out of the University of Texas in the 3rd round in 2010.
With the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs, righty reliever Michael Stutes has produced six straight scoreless outings, a stretch of 9 2/3 innings during which he has allowed four hits and two walks while striking out nine. Overall, the 26-year-old has a 1-2 record with a save and a 3.80 ERA in 15 games.
The Cold List-
Lakewood third baseman Mitch Walding, who had been one of the team's best offensive performers through the opening month of the season, has cooled off quite a bit recently. In his past nine games, the 20-year-old has gone 5-for-35 (.143 avg). Prior to the slump, the Phils' 5th round pick from 2011 was sporting a .277 average.
In three starts since he tossed five shut out innings against Savannah on April 21st, last year's 1st round pick Shane Watson has gone 0-2 with an 11.70 ERA for Lakewood. Watson, a 19-year-old, has had his fastball clocked steadily at 93 MPH this season.
Clearwater designated hitter and occasional corner infielder Harold Martinez is batting .154 over his last 10 games. The 23-year-old prospect was the Phils' 2nd round draft choice out of the University of Miami in 2011. Overall in 23 games, Martinez is batting .191 with a home run and five RBI.
Triple-A Lehigh Valley infielder/outfielder Michael Martinez is batting .118 over his past nine games. Overall in 25 games, the 30-year-old has tallied a .224 average along with three doubles and 10 RBI.
The Injured-
Reading left-hander Austin Wright, sidelined with a strained throwing shoulder, has been rehabbing the ailment in Florida. The 23-year-old threw two innings with the Phillies' extended spring training team this past week and has his next start scheduled with them on Tuesday. Wright was drafted in the 8th round in 2011 out of the University of Mississippi.
Clearwater reliever Kenny Giles, who began the season with a strained oblique on his right side returned in late April to appear in two games, but has returned to the disabled list with an oblique strain on the opposite side. A source with the Phillies jokingly describes Giles, whose fastball reached triple digits with Clearwater last year, as a bad patient. The 7th round draft pick from 2011 is said to be anxious to return to the mound and doesn't like missing game action.
The Departed-
Outfielder Domingo Santana, who was traded as the player to be named later in the 2011 Hunter Pence deal, had the first three-homer game of his career on Friday for Double-A Corpus Christi. Through 24 contests this year, the 20-year-old Dominican was batting .264 with seven home runs and 17 RBI.
Righty hurler Trevor May, who was dealt last off-season in the Ben Revere trade, threw his second seven-inning complete game shutout of the season for Double-A New Britain on Friday. In seven starts, the 23-year-old is 2-1 with a 3.20 ERA. The Washington state native has had two tough outings against Harrisburg this season, including a four-inning outing on April 29th during which he allowed eight earned runs. In his five starts not against Harrisburg this year, May has a 1.15 ERA.
With Triple-A Oklahoma City, right-hander Jarred Cosart is 4-0 with a 2.18 ERA along with 39 strike outs and 14 walks through 33 innings pitched. The Texas native who turns 23 later this month seems to have dominated the tough-on-pitchers Pacific Coast League, but he has not thrown six innings or greater in any of his seven appearances this season. Cosart was also part of the package sent to Houston for Pence.
Righty pitcher Lisalverto Bonilla, who was traded to Texas in the deal to acquire Michael Young, has a 2-1 record along with a 7.50 ERA in 12 relief outings for the Triple-A Round Rock Express. The 22-year-old has struck out 26 and walked 11 in 18 innings.
The Hot List-
 |
| Lakewood pitcher Nic Hanson |
Class A Advanced Clearwater outfielder Cameron Perkins has been performing extremely well this month. In 10 games, the 22-year-old has posted a .385 average with six doubles, a triple, a homer and six RBI. Perkins was selected in the 6th round of the 2012 draft out of Purdue University.
Dominican hurler Gabriel Arias has looked great for the Clearwater Threshers, going 4-1 with a 1.25 ERA through nine outings (four starts). The 23-year-old has regularly had his fastball clocked at 95 MPH over the past year.
Double-A Reading catcher Cameron Rupp, whose batting average had been as low as .211 this past week, decided to shave his goatee for a change of luck. Since going bald faced, the 24-year-old has gone 5-for-12 with three home runs and five RBI in three contests. Rupp was drafted out of the University of Texas in the 3rd round in 2010.
With the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs, righty reliever Michael Stutes has produced six straight scoreless outings, a stretch of 9 2/3 innings during which he has allowed four hits and two walks while striking out nine. Overall, the 26-year-old has a 1-2 record with a save and a 3.80 ERA in 15 games.
The Cold List-
Lakewood third baseman Mitch Walding, who had been one of the team's best offensive performers through the opening month of the season, has cooled off quite a bit recently. In his past nine games, the 20-year-old has gone 5-for-35 (.143 avg). Prior to the slump, the Phils' 5th round pick from 2011 was sporting a .277 average.
 |
| Top 2012 draft pick Shane Watson |
Clearwater designated hitter and occasional corner infielder Harold Martinez is batting .154 over his last 10 games. The 23-year-old prospect was the Phils' 2nd round draft choice out of the University of Miami in 2011. Overall in 23 games, Martinez is batting .191 with a home run and five RBI.
Triple-A Lehigh Valley infielder/outfielder Michael Martinez is batting .118 over his past nine games. Overall in 25 games, the 30-year-old has tallied a .224 average along with three doubles and 10 RBI.
The Injured-
Reading left-hander Austin Wright, sidelined with a strained throwing shoulder, has been rehabbing the ailment in Florida. The 23-year-old threw two innings with the Phillies' extended spring training team this past week and has his next start scheduled with them on Tuesday. Wright was drafted in the 8th round in 2011 out of the University of Mississippi.
Clearwater reliever Kenny Giles, who began the season with a strained oblique on his right side returned in late April to appear in two games, but has returned to the disabled list with an oblique strain on the opposite side. A source with the Phillies jokingly describes Giles, whose fastball reached triple digits with Clearwater last year, as a bad patient. The 7th round draft pick from 2011 is said to be anxious to return to the mound and doesn't like missing game action.
The Departed-
 |
| Domingo Santana |
Righty hurler Trevor May, who was dealt last off-season in the Ben Revere trade, threw his second seven-inning complete game shutout of the season for Double-A New Britain on Friday. In seven starts, the 23-year-old is 2-1 with a 3.20 ERA. The Washington state native has had two tough outings against Harrisburg this season, including a four-inning outing on April 29th during which he allowed eight earned runs. In his five starts not against Harrisburg this year, May has a 1.15 ERA.
With Triple-A Oklahoma City, right-hander Jarred Cosart is 4-0 with a 2.18 ERA along with 39 strike outs and 14 walks through 33 innings pitched. The Texas native who turns 23 later this month seems to have dominated the tough-on-pitchers Pacific Coast League, but he has not thrown six innings or greater in any of his seven appearances this season. Cosart was also part of the package sent to Houston for Pence.
Righty pitcher Lisalverto Bonilla, who was traded to Texas in the deal to acquire Michael Young, has a 2-1 record along with a 7.50 ERA in 12 relief outings for the Triple-A Round Rock Express. The 22-year-old has struck out 26 and walked 11 in 18 innings.
Friday, May 10, 2013
PhoulBallz Minor League Podcast: Episode 25
It's the landmark 25th edition of the PhoulBallz Minor League Podcast. On this epsiode, Jay and Tug discuss Tyson Gillies' rough start to the 2013 season and J.A. Happ's alarming injury. Additionally, the guys field the challenge of a fan, each naming their five positive things to take from the Phillies organization's season thus far, praising names like Kyle Kendrick, Jonathan Pettibone, Jesse Biddle and Nic Hanson. Some news related to TheFightins.com is revealed as well.
Use the media player below to stream the full episode, or simply download it by clicking HERE.
You can also check out previous episodes and subscribe on iTunes.
Use the media player below to stream the full episode, or simply download it by clicking HERE.
You can also check out previous episodes and subscribe on iTunes.
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Series Preview: Phillies at D-Backs, May 9-12
Winners of three straight, the Diamondbacks will send 23-year-old left-hander Patrick Corbin to the mound for the series opener. Arizona has won all six of Corbin's starts this season. The Phillies will counter with three-time All-Star Cole Hamels, who has a 3.38 ERA in five career starts at Chase Field.
Last season, the Phils won four of six meetings with Arizona, including two of three in Phoenix.
Read ahead for full details on the pitching match ups and plenty more stats from this series.
Thursday, 9:40 PM. Cole Hamels (1-4, 4.34 ERA) vs. Patrick Corbin (4-0, 1.80 ERA). Hamels is sporting a 2.31 ERA over his last five starts. In seven career starts against Arizona, Hamels is 4-1 with a 3.47 ERA. The lefty Hamels is 1-1 with a 3.71 ERA three road starts this season. In his sophomore MLB campaign, Corbin, who was the Angels 2nd round pick in 2009, is 2-0 with a 1.42 ERA in two home starts this year. Corbin was acquired in the Dan Haren trade in 2010.
Friday, 9:40 PM. Tyler Cloyd (1st MLB start this year) vs. Ian Kennedy (1-3, 5.19 ERA). The righty Cloyd posted a 2-2 record in a 4.91 ERA in six big league starts last year. In six starts with Triple-A Lehigh Valley this season, the 25-year-old Cloyd posted a 1-3 record along with a 5.40 ERA. Kennedy is 1-1 with a 5.49 ERA in three home starts this season. In four career starts against the Phillies, Kennedy has a 1-1 record with a 3.75 ERA. Ryan Howard is 0-for-9 in his career against Kennedy.
Saturday, 8:10 PM. Cliff Lee (3-2, 3.26 ERA) vs. Trevor Cahill (2-3, 2.80 ERA). In five career starts against Arizona, Lee has a 3-1 record with a 3.50 ERA. Lee is 2-1 with a 2.48 ERA in four road starts this year. Eric Chavez is 2-for-19 (.105 avg) in his career against Lee. In five home starts this year, Cahill has a 1-2 record and a 2.61 ERA. Cahill is 1-1 with a 3.60 ERA in three career starts against the Phils
Sunday, 4:10 PM. Kyle Kendrick (4-1, 2.45 ERA) vs. Brandon McCarthy (0-3, 6.75 ERA). In seven career games (six starts) against Arizona, Kendrick has a 0-2 record with a 6.06 ERA. Kendrick is 2-0 with a 0.78 ERA in three road starts this year. Miguel Montero is 6-for-9 (.667 avg) with a double and a homer in his career against Kendrick. In four home starts this season, McCarthy is 0-2 with a 7.61 ERA. Michael Young is 7-for-25 (.280 avg) with a home run in his career against the 29-year-old McCarthy.
Delmon Young is a .389 hitter with with a home run and three RBI in nine games against the D-Backs. Young is batting .130 through eight games this season.
In 41 career games against Arizona, Chase Utley has a .293 average with nine home runs and 23 RBI.
Opponents are batting .116 against Jonathan Papelbon in 13 games this year. Papelbon has not allowed a run since his initial outing this season, a stretch of 12 games.
In 17 home games this season, Paul Goldschmidt is batting .377 with five homers and 19 RBI. Goldschmidt is 2-for-18 (.111 avg) in five career contests against the Phillies.
Gerardo Parra is a .197 hitter in 20 career games against the Phillies. Parra is batting .311 in 15 home games this season.
Heath Bell is 1-1 with nine saves, no blown saves and a 2.48 ERA in 32 games against the Phillies. In six home games this year, Bell has an 11.57 ERA.
Phillies team ERA- 4.34 (25th in MLB)
D-Backs team ERA- 3.57 (8th in MLB)
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Cameron Rupp Interview Excerpts
- On his transition to the Double-A level-
Our club's got a lot of the same guys that I played with down in the Florida State League, but you see a lot of older guys up here at the higher levels and guys that have a little bit better of an idea of what they're doing out there up at the plate. You know, a lot more consistency throughout the whole game.
- On the progression of lefty pitching prospect Jesse Biddle, who Rupp has caught at three different levels-
He's been unbelievable. He's grown so much. You know, out on the mound, he's grown up. He understands how to control his emotions. His stuff is, it was good when we were in Lakewood, it was good last year, this year it's- it's getting better every year. He's done a lot of good things for us. He keeps us in ballgames, he comes out and works hard, he pounds the zone a lot and that's all you can ask for.
- On what he works on and how he makes sure he's improving at each level of the minors-
Just being consistent. On the field, behind the plate, in the batters box, just being consistent. You're gonna have your days where you go 0-for-4, you're gonna have your weeks where you don't get a hit, but you take the same approach as when you go 3-for-4 when you're seeing the ball really well, and continue to go out every day and give what you've got. Just, you know, you gotta have fun doing it and that's one of the big things, as long as you're having fun and you're consistent you're gonna love the game.
- On being around rehabbing big leaguers-
So far, the guys that have come through, last year (in Clearwater) we had Thome, Nix, Halladay threw for us, Utley. Last year we had a bunch of guys come through and they've been awesome. They've worked with us, talked game, sat down, watched TV with us, even Thome went out and had dinner with us one night. It was awesome. They've been in our shoes, so they understand just like we do and they get up there and they're still the same guys. You know, it's really special.
- On his time spent in big league camp during spring training-
The older guys, they went about it a little differently than some of the younger guys did. I just tried to soak in being up in a big league club house and seeing the guys and watching the games and trying to learn. I just thought it was an unbelievable experience. You get to see how the game is at the highest level that's played and being around those guys you get to learn every aspect of the game. And you can pick more than just one guy's (brain)...and being able to pick their brains, there's no one else better to learn from.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
PhoulBallz Interview: RHP Prospect Seth Rosin
Recently, I spoke with the 24-year-old about his transition to a new organization, his thoughts about Reading, Eastern League competition and plenty more. Read ahead for that full interview.
- Last year, at the time of the trade, how were you notified you had been dealt and what was your reaction?
I got a call from the Giants front office at about 8 o'clock in the morning, west coast time, letting me know I had to leave tomorrow to go to Florida, I was in a trade. So, I was just trying to get everything in order, get my car out to Florida, or whatever, all my clothes. I had a host family, so they were really helpful with that. I was just- I knew I had to get all my stuff in order to get over there. It was a good transition and the Phillies guys welcomed me, so it was a good transition.
- As rattling as that appears to be, from that description, is getting that news also exciting, because you know a team has just dealt an established player to get you?
Yeah. It's a fresh start. All new coaches, everything, I've got to get to know everyone's names and stuff like that. It's a good start and I'm having a good time over here.
- I know that you're a North Dakota and a Minnesota guy. Not a lot of baseball players come out of those colder weather states. Tell me about your first exposure to baseball and maybe what it was like trying to excel at a sport in which it's tough to get a lot of experience in a colder weather state.
I was born in North Dakota and then I lived in Minneapolis, growing up or whatever. I went to college at Minnesota and I always had a chip on my shoulder, when I went out to Cape Cod especially, when they told me that kids from the north couldn't play baseball. So, I took that with me and always wanted to prove them wrong. I think I still take that out with me everyday to the field, just to prove everybody wrong.
- What are your impressions of the town, the facility, the fans here with Reading thus far?
Oh, it's amazing, getting 5 (thousand) to 8,000 a night, every night, is a lot of fun. Seeing the ostriches out there in center field during pregames, hilarious. So, we have fun everyday. Working really hard, trying to get as many wins as possible for the team and hopefully, we can get deep into the playoffs this year.
When you're doing well (the fans) are loving you. When you're not doing well, they can get on you. I think that's my first taste of that. It's pretty cool being a role model to all the kids that come out and want the autograph or the high five.
- What are your thoughts on transitioning from the Florida State League up here to the Eastern League?
Probably the strike zone's a little smaller, but more consistent here in Double-A than in High A. So, you just gotta make sure your get ahead of the hitters, because they'll be selective and they'll take their walks, when they can get them. Just attacking hitters is probably more important here than in High A.
- So, what is your pitch repertoire likes and what are the variances in velocity that you have?
I throw mostly a four-seam fastball, slider and a change up. Velocity, you're gonna have to ask someone else. I don't really ask that kind of stuff. I'm kind of a control kind of guy. I just try to throw it both sides of the plate and keep the ball down and a let my defense play behind me, so I just try to get off the field as quick as possible.
- You've got some highly regarded catching prospects here that you get to throw to. What is it like throwing to these guys and what are your impressions of the depth at catcher for this organization right now?
They're all fantastic. I've thrown to (Sebastian) Valle all my starts this year and I think we're on the same page every innings out there, so, and I know (Cameron) Rupp is fantastic as well, so I'm looking forward to throwing to him as well. I'm just having fun with them. They can all throw guys out, they call a good game, they block well, play good defense, so it's a treat to throw to these guys.
- We talked about you being from the northern states. Who were some of your favorite players growing up?
Kirby Puckett was, by far, my favorite player. Being a Minnesota Twin, he's a hometown favorite for winning those two World Series. The Minnesota Twins, growing up, was my favorite. I still have a place in my heart for those guys. It was just a lot of fun watching them growing up.
- Do you have any superstitions or gameday routines that you go by?
I put on my socks the same way every day. I put my left one on, them my right one. I make sure I put my left shoes on first before my right one. And I play catch with the strength coach every day before my start. Those are my two routines, I guess.
Monday, May 6, 2013
Series Preview: Phillies at Giants, May 6-8
The Phillies (14-18) head west to begin a three-game series on Monday night at San Francisco's AT&T Park. The hosting Giants (19-12) have won six straight contests.
The Phils' offense, which ranks second from worst in the majors with a .669 OPS, struggled over the weekend, as they tallied only five total hits in a pair of losses to the team with the worst record in the National League, the Marlins.
The first place Giants were victorious in four of six meetings between these two teams last year.
Read ahead for full details on the pitching match ups and other key stats for this series.
Monday. 10:15 PM. Cliff Lee (2-2, 3.46 ERA) vs. Madison Bumgarner (3-0, 1.55 ERA). In five career regular season starts against San Francisco, Lee is 4-0 with a 0.63 ERA and two complete games. Lee has a 0-2 record with a 5.04 ERA in his last four starts. Pablo Sandoval is 2-for-12 (.167 avg) in his career against Lee. Opponents are hitting just .181 against Bumgarner this season. In three home starts this year, Bumgarner is 1-0 with a 2.37 ERA.
Tuesday, 10:15 PM. Kyle Kendrick (3-1, 2.43 ERA) vs. Tim Lincecum (2-1, 4.41 ERA). Kendrick is 1-1 with a 2.89 ERA in five career outings against the Giants. Kendrick has thrown 16 scoreless innings in two road starts this season. Angel Pagan is 5-for-28 (.179 avg) in his career against Kendrick. In 11 career regular season starts against the Phils, Lincecum has a 5-2 record with a 3.00 ERA. Chase Utley is 5-for-30 (.167 avg) in regular season action agaisnt Lincecum.
Wednesday, 3:45 PM. Jonathan Pettibone (2-0, 3.24 ERA) vs. Barry Zito (3-1, 3.06 ERA). Opponents are batting .286 through three big league starts. Pettibone earned a win in his lone road outing in which he allowed three earned runs in five innings against the Mets. In seven career regular season starts against the Phillies, Zito has a 3-3 record with a 4.60 ERA. In four home starts this season, Zito is 3-0 with a 0.35 ERA.
Through six games, Carlos Ruiz is batting .100. Ruiz is a .228 hitter with a homer and nine RBI in 31 regular season games against San Francisco.
In 14 road games this season, Jimmy Rollins is batting .200 with no home runs and no RBI.
In 11 career games against the Giants, Michael Young is a .189 hitter with one home run and two RBI. Young has just one extra-base hit, a double, since April 10th.
Pablo Sandoval is a .268 hitter with four home runs with 14 RBI in 26 regular season games against the Phillies. Sandoval entered action on Sunday tied for the National League lead in multi-hit games with 13 this season.
In 26 career games against the Phillies, Hunter Pence has a .340 average with 11 home runs and 22 RBI. Pence is batting .305 in 15 home game this year.
Sergio Romo's 12 saves are tied for the MLB lead. Romo has a 1-1 record with a 1.64 ERA in 12 games against the Phillies.
The Phils' offense, which ranks second from worst in the majors with a .669 OPS, struggled over the weekend, as they tallied only five total hits in a pair of losses to the team with the worst record in the National League, the Marlins.
The first place Giants were victorious in four of six meetings between these two teams last year.
Read ahead for full details on the pitching match ups and other key stats for this series.
Monday. 10:15 PM. Cliff Lee (2-2, 3.46 ERA) vs. Madison Bumgarner (3-0, 1.55 ERA). In five career regular season starts against San Francisco, Lee is 4-0 with a 0.63 ERA and two complete games. Lee has a 0-2 record with a 5.04 ERA in his last four starts. Pablo Sandoval is 2-for-12 (.167 avg) in his career against Lee. Opponents are hitting just .181 against Bumgarner this season. In three home starts this year, Bumgarner is 1-0 with a 2.37 ERA.
Tuesday, 10:15 PM. Kyle Kendrick (3-1, 2.43 ERA) vs. Tim Lincecum (2-1, 4.41 ERA). Kendrick is 1-1 with a 2.89 ERA in five career outings against the Giants. Kendrick has thrown 16 scoreless innings in two road starts this season. Angel Pagan is 5-for-28 (.179 avg) in his career against Kendrick. In 11 career regular season starts against the Phils, Lincecum has a 5-2 record with a 3.00 ERA. Chase Utley is 5-for-30 (.167 avg) in regular season action agaisnt Lincecum.
Wednesday, 3:45 PM. Jonathan Pettibone (2-0, 3.24 ERA) vs. Barry Zito (3-1, 3.06 ERA). Opponents are batting .286 through three big league starts. Pettibone earned a win in his lone road outing in which he allowed three earned runs in five innings against the Mets. In seven career regular season starts against the Phillies, Zito has a 3-3 record with a 4.60 ERA. In four home starts this season, Zito is 3-0 with a 0.35 ERA.
Through six games, Carlos Ruiz is batting .100. Ruiz is a .228 hitter with a homer and nine RBI in 31 regular season games against San Francisco.
In 14 road games this season, Jimmy Rollins is batting .200 with no home runs and no RBI.
In 11 career games against the Giants, Michael Young is a .189 hitter with one home run and two RBI. Young has just one extra-base hit, a double, since April 10th.
Pablo Sandoval is a .268 hitter with four home runs with 14 RBI in 26 regular season games against the Phillies. Sandoval entered action on Sunday tied for the National League lead in multi-hit games with 13 this season.
In 26 career games against the Phillies, Hunter Pence has a .340 average with 11 home runs and 22 RBI. Pence is batting .305 in 15 home game this year.
Sergio Romo's 12 saves are tied for the MLB lead. Romo has a 1-1 record with a 1.64 ERA in 12 games against the Phillies.
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