Ex-Bus Rider News

[Nate Colbert]

Chris Lee was added to the Orioles 40-man roster today. The lefty was taken by the Astros in the 4th round of the 2011 draft. He was traded to Baltimore last May for the 46 and 76 slots in the 2014-15 International Pool.

Walks have been a huge problem for Lee. Retarded his progress in the Astros system, spending 3 years w/ the G-Stros and nearly a year and half at QC. Orioles moved him more quickly after the trade as he spent time at hi-A and AA although control was still an issue.

[Duman]

He also had an injury in 2012 that cut his season short (only 8 2/3 IP), so the three years in Gville isn't quiet accurate.  But you are right that his control has slowed his progress. 

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Jio Mier signed with the Jays.

[Reuben]

Jio Mier signed with the Jays.

Shit. I just posted this in the TZ under the "Ex-Astros News" thread. Now I feel like a jerk.

[Duman]

Former bus rider Jake Goebbert has signed a Minor  Major League FA deal with the Pirates

[astrosfan76]

Former JetHawk Mike Hesseman retires as a player.  After 19 years of professional baseball and becoming the career HR leader for domestic minor-league players, Hesseman is moving from the field to the dugout to become a coach.  Hesseman had his best season for HR in '12 as a member of the JetHawks.  Good luck to him in the next chapter of his career.

[Nate Colbert]

Former JetHawk Mike Hesseman retires as a player.  After 19 years of professional baseball and becoming the career HR leader for domestic minor-league players, Hesseman is moving from the field to the dugout to become a coach.  Hesseman had his best season for HR in '12 as a member of the JetHawks.  Good luck to him in the next chapter of his career.

RedHawk, JetHawk, some kind of damn bird.

[VirtualBob]

Brett Phillips made the BA pre-season top 10 prospect list at #4 for Milwaukee.

[Nate Colbert]

OF Frankie Caraballo, who played in the system from 2003-2007 eventually reaching AA, was released by the Orix Buffaloes. He had played on and off in the NPB  over the last 5 years.

[juliogotay]

Brett Phillips made the BA pre-season top 10 prospect list at #4 for Milwaukee.

I thought Hader would have made their Top 10.  I didn't see Rio Ruiz in the Top 10 for Braves.

[Duman]

I thought Hader would have made their Top 10.  I didn't see Rio Ruiz in the Top 10 for Braves.

Rio had a very bad year and will be in the 20-30 range likely.

[Duman]

Josh Magee had a good fall for Univ. of South Alabama as a receiver.  He has now been on the squad at three different Univ in Alabama.  Walk on at Bama in 13 (redshirted), UAB in 14 (program shut down), USA in 15. 

He spent two years in the Astros org before being released.  I didn't know until I read his football bio that his dad was Wendell Magee of the Phillies & Tigers.

[Duder]

Josh Magee had a good fall for Univ. of South Alabama as a receiver.  He has now been on the squad at three different Univ in Alabama.  Walk on at Bama in 13 (redshirted), UAB in 14 (program shut down), USA in 15. 

He spent two years in the Astros org before being released.  I didn't know until I read his football bio that his dad was Wendell Magee of the Phillies & Tigers.

Some may remember Magee for collecting hits in 12 consecutive at-bats during his time with Greeneville. Magee Delivers 12 Straight Hits

[Nate Colbert]

I thought Hader would have made their Top 10. 

Check out the chat transcript. The BA guy gets a little testy responding to all the questions as to why he wasn't there.

[juliogotay]

Check out the chat transcript. The BA guy gets a little testy responding to all the questions as to why he wasn't there.

Funny.

[Duman]

Three former bus riders were taken in the minor league section of the rule 5 draft:

Mitch Lambson - taken by the Brewers from the Braves
Ariel Ovando - taken by the Angles from the Cubs (he is a pitcher now)
Enderson Franco - taken by the Braves from the Marlins

[Nate Colbert]

MLFA R.J. Alaniz signed with the Tigers.

BA Transactions Page

[Nate Colbert]

Ex-Red Raider Bobby Doran, drafted in the 4th round in 2010 and then traded to the CWS in 2014, was just signed to a minor league deal with the BJs. He pitched (badly) in the indy leagues in 2015.

Andrew Robinson, 12th-rounder in the same draft as Doran, signed a similar deal with the Nats.

BA Transactions Page

[Nate Colbert]

Josh Hader #6 on MLB.com's list of top ten LHP prospects in all of baseball.

Link

[juliogotay]

Josh Hader #6 on MLB.com's list of top ten LHP prospects in all of baseball.

Link

one spot where Astros system is weak is LH pitching. Who would be their top LH prospect?

[Duman]

one spot where Astros system is weak is LH pitching. Who would be their top LH prospect?

Tommy Shirley is closest to the majors but Patrick Sandoval is the highest rated prospect but he was just drafted out of high school last year and spent the whole year in the GCL.

[mrpink]

Tommy Shirley is closest to the majors but Patrick Sandoval is the highest rated prospect but he was just drafted out of high school last year and spent the whole year in the GCL.

Do you have any idea what happened to Shirley?  I thought he had a chance to get called up last year for a spot start or two, but then he got hurt and I never saw any news about his injury.

[jbm]

I thought people were mentioning Freeman from last year's draft.  Never seen him, but he is listed as a lefty. 

[Duman]

I thought people were mentioning Freeman from last year's draft.  Never seen him, but he is listed as a lefty.

My understanding is he is not seen as a starter but as a reliever.  He jumped from A ball to AA in his draft year which is impressive.  He could be in the bullpen soon according to JJ Cooper of Baseball America.  (see last chat question)

[Nate Colbert]

Josh Hader #6 on MLB.com's list of top ten LHP prospects in all of baseball.

Link

And Jacob Nottingham comes in at #8 overall on their top ten C prospects list.

[VirtualBob]

And Jacob Nottingham comes in at #8 overall on their top ten C prospects list.

I noticed that too, but was struck with the comment below from the write-up:

His defense lags well behind his bat, though, and his blocking and receiving skills will need to improve considerably for him to stick behind the plate.

[Reuben]

My understanding is he is not seen as a starter but as a reliever.  He jumped from A ball to AA in his draft year which is impressive.  He could be in the bullpen soon according to JJ Cooper of Baseball America.  (see last chat question)

I'm curious to see how Kent Emmanuel does once he comes back from TJ surgery. He's a LH starter, for those who don't remember. Doesn't have "great stuff" but was UNC's Ace.

[Nate Colbert]

Chris Lee was added to the Orioles 40-man roster today. The lefty was taken by the Astros in the 4th round of the 2011 draft. He was traded to Baltimore last May for the 46 and 76 slots in the 2014-15 International Pool.

Walks have been a huge problem for Lee. Retarded his progress in the Astros system, spending 3 years w/ the G-Stros and nearly a year and half at QC. Orioles moved him more quickly after the trade as he spent time at hi-A and AA although control was still an issue.

Nick Cafardo in his latest notes column says that Lee will be one of the "must-see pitchers" in Orioles camp and that "his mannerisms remind scouts of David Price".

Yokely-dokely.

[juliogotay]

Nick Cafardo in his latest notes column says that Lee will be one of the "must-see pitchers" in Orioles camp and that "his mannerisms remind scouts of David Price".

Yokely-dokely.

Lee, a LHer, throws 97 with a + slider and change? Anybody remember why the Astros gave up on him? Injuries?

[Duman]

Lee, a LHer, throws 97 with a + slider and change? Anybody remember why the Astros gave up on him? Injuries?

Lee was slow to develop and injuries played a part. He was drafted in 2011 by the Astros in the 4th round.  He spent 11, 12 & 13.  Missed most of 12 with injuries.  Moved up to QC in 14 but struggled with control.  Walked 51 in 113 innings while just K'ing 75.  Always had a bunch of promise but couldn't put it all together.  Was traded in May of 15 to the O's for some international bonus money (reported $655,000). 

Here is an article from the Baltimore perspective of the trade.

[juliogotay]

Lee was slow to develop and injuries played a part. He was drafted in 2011 by the Astros in the 4th round.  He spent 11, 12 & 13.  Missed most of 12 with injuries.  Moved up to QC in 14 but struggled with control.  Walked 51 in 113 innings while just K'ing 75.  Always had a bunch of promise but couldn't put it all together.  Was traded in May of 15 to the O's for some international bonus money (reported $655,000). 

Here is an article from the Baltimore perspective of the trade.

Thanks. Looks like a classic late-blooming southpaw.

[Duman]

Josh Zeid signed by the Angles to a minor league deal

[VirtualBob]

Josh Zeid, who pitched in the minors in 2015 for the Tigers, back in the AL West after signing a minor league deal with the Angels.

[Duman]

Dang.  I missed it again. 

[Duman]

Unless Nate has already announced it and I missed it again, I saw that Luis Cruz was released by the Cubs.

[Nate Colbert]

Unless Nate has already announced it and I missed it again, I saw that Luis Cruz was released by the Cubs.

Failed his physical.

[Nate Colbert]

Tom ‏@Haudricourt  8 minutes ago
#Brewers catching prospect Jacob Nottingham has two at-bats in first Cactus League game. Double to left, double to right. Kid can hit.

[Nate Colbert]

Chris Wallace will return to the Skeeters for another season. The former Coogs' catcher was drafted by the Astros in the 16th round in 2010 and played 3 years in the organization.

[Duman]

Former bus rider Drew Muren who played OF in the Astros org from 2011 - 2013 is now giving being a pitcher a shot with the DBacks.  According to his indy ball coach:

“Drew has been working on his pitching the last two off-seasons and we knew this was something he was pursuing,” said RedHawks Manager Doug Simunic. “He has a big arm that tops out in the mid-90s and this could be a change for him to advance his baseball career. We’ll miss him in centerfield but hope it works out for him.”

[Nate Colbert]

Last year's Rule 5 pick by Seattle lefty David Rollins was optioned to AAA Tacoma this morning despite having had a decent spring for the Ms.

[Nate Colbert]

Ross Seaton, former 3rd round pick (2008) out of 2nd Baptist HS who spent 7 years in the organization before signing with the Tigers as a MLFA before the 2015 season, was released by Detroit.

[Nate Colbert]

A couple of former organization lefties and their recent comings and goings in the indy leagues:

Joe Bircher--the former 10th rounder (2012) re-signed to play with Sioux Falls of the American Association. He spent the last couple of years spending time both there in the AA and the Atlantic League.

Alex Sogard--Eric's brother was a 26th rounder (2010) who reached OKC in his 5 years with the Astros before going to Arizona in a 2014 trade. Spent 2015 in the American Association before recently having his contract sold to the Orioles.

American Association transactions page

[Nate Colbert]

Chris Wallace will return to the Skeeters for another season. The former Coogs' catcher was drafted by the Astros in the 16th round in 2010 and played 3 years in the organization.

Also signing with the Skeeters in recent weeks was INF Brooks Conrad and RHP Fernando Nieve (the latter also pitched in 5 games for Sugar Land last season).

[Nate Colbert]

And in recent Atlantic League transactions:

1B Telvin Nash--hit .270/.391/.516 in 64 games for York last season after his release by the Astros. Has re-signed with York for 2016.

OF Fehlandt Lentini--the 38 year-old signs on for a 3rd season with the Long Island Ducks. 2016 will mark his 16th year playing minor league ball. Way to hang in there, Feh!

[Nate Colbert]

Wrapping up recent indy league transactions:

INF/OF Albert Cartwright--the former 36th rounder (2007) who played 2B when he was in the Astros organization recently re-signed with Ottawa after hitting .304/.366/.409 there last season.

Can Am League transactions

C Ricky Gingras--18th rounder (2012) played 3 seasons with the Astros before playing with San Rafael last year and will return there for 2016.

Pacific Association press release

[Nate Colbert]

Former bus rider Jake Goebbert has signed a Minor  Major League FA deal with the Pirates

Failed to make the big club, optioned today to AAA Indianapolis.

[Nate Colbert]

Ex-Red Raider Bobby Doran, drafted in the 4th round in 2010 and then traded to the CWS in 2014, was just signed to a minor league deal with the BJs. He pitched (badly) in the indy leagues in 2015.

Toronto released him at the end of spring training.

[Nate Colbert]

Just call 'em Corpus Christi East. Josh Hader, Adrian Houser, Jacob Nottingham, Rene Garcia and Brett Phillips are all on the roster of the Biloxi Shuckers (Brewers AA club in the Southern League).

[Nate Colbert]

Former bus rider Jake Goebbert has signed a Minor  Major League FA deal with the Pirates.

Failed to make the big club, optioned today to AAA Indianapolis.

Subsequently designated for assignment by the Pirates, he was claimed today by the Rays. He'll apparently join Carlos Corporan at AAA Durham.

[Nate Colbert]

RHP Kyle Westwood, released last month by the Astros, has been signed by Toronto.

[Nate Colbert]

Mark Appel with a couple of decent starts to kick off his Phillies career at AAA Lehigh Valley: a combined 11.2 IP, 10 H, 1 ER, 4 W, 11 K.

[juliogotay]

Mark Appel with a couple of decent starts to kick off his Phillies career at AAA Lehigh Valley: a combined 11.2 IP, 10 H, 1 ER, 4 W, 11 K.

Of course. I wouldn't have expected anything less.

[Nate Colbert]

Mark Appel with a couple of decent starts to kick off his Phillies career at AAA Lehigh Valley: a combined 11.2 IP, 10 H, 1 ER, 4 W, 11 K.

Another piece of that trade, Tom Eshelman at high A Clearwater has allowed just 7 hits and 2 ER over 19 IP in his first 3 starts and a 17/3 K to BB.

[Nate Colbert]

Though she may overlook a name or two (like Feh Lentini and Ricky Gingras), Jayne of WTHB with a great job of listing even more names of former farmhands scheduled to play in the indy leagues this year.

[Nate Colbert]

Daniel Mengden, the ex-Aggie taken by the Astros in the 4th round in 2014 and traded to the A's last year in the Kazmir deal, tosses 5 shutout innings for Midland against the Hooks tonight. Off to a decent start for the RockHounds this year with 28 K's in 23 IP (though he has walked 12) with an 0.78 ERA.

[Nate Colbert]

Daniel Mengden, the ex-Aggie taken by the Astros in the 4th round in 2014 and traded to the A's last year in the Kazmir deal, tosses 5 shutout innings for Midland against the Hooks tonight. Off to a decent start for the RockHounds this year with 28 K's in 23 IP (though he has walked 12) with an 0.78 ERA.

The A's have promoted Mengden to AAA Nashville.

[Nate Colbert]

Nice debut for RHP Troy Scribner with his new organization:

In his first outing of 2016 following a trade to the Angels organization on April 1, Scribner pitched five hitless innings in Double-A Arkansas' 6-1 win over Springfield in the second game of a doubleheader at Hammons Field. Scribner struck out seven but allowed one run on four walks.

Link

[Nate Colbert]

Milb.com article on Josh Hader's season at Biloxi thus far.

[Nate Colbert]

Milb.com article on Josh Hader's season at Biloxi thus far.

And Brett Phillips had a 3-homer game for the Shuckers tonight.

[Knoxbanedoodle]

This thread is really starting to hurt.

[Nate Colbert]

Milb.com article on Rio Ruiz, off to a better start at AAA Gwinnett compared to that poor season last year in AA.

[Nate Colbert]

The A's have promoted Mengden to AAA Nashville.

Combined 13 scoreless innings in his first two starts with the Sounds.

[Nate Colbert]

Not all those ex-farmhands at Biloxi are shining. Jake Nottingham is hitting just .195 while Adrian Houser has an 8.63 ERA.

[Duman]

Not all those ex-farmhands at Biloxi are shining. Jake Nottingham is hitting just .195 while Adrian Houser has an 8.63 ERA.

Awww Shucks

[Nate Colbert]

Anyone remember the Astros' 1st round pick back in 1991, Jimmy Gonzalez? He was a bust (as high school catchers taken in round one often are*) but did remarkably manage to play 14 years in the minors. He last played in the Astros organization in 1997 and peaked at AA. He also played in the Padres, Mets and Expos organizations. He is still involved these days in minor league ball--he's the manager of the South Bend Cubs.

*The Astros are probably no worse than any other team in this regard but their trail of the dead in addition to Gonzalez includes Max Sapp (2006), Robbie Wine (1983), John Mizerock (1979) and Martin Cott (1968). At least Wine (all of 44 plate appearances) and Mizerock (275 PAs) did make the bigs.

[Nate Colbert]

The A's have promoted Daniel Mengden to AAA Nashville.

Combined 13 scoreless innings in his first two starts with the Sounds.

After another sterling outing tonight, Mengden has a combined 0.72 ERA and 0.94 WHIP in 50 IP between AA/AAA. Has been some recent speculation of a callup to the A's to join their starting rotation.

[Nate Colbert]

Jim Salisbury ‏@JSalisburyCSN  1 hour ago
Mark Appel allowed 4 h, 4 r, 2 bb in two thirds IP for Lehigh Valley today. Velocity down significantly too. Topped at 89.

Appel's allowed 15 walks and 24 hits now over his last 21 2/3 IP.

[Nate Colbert]

Signed as an international free agent by the Astros back in 2005, RHP Dayan Diaz eventually reached A ball with the Lexington Legends before leaving the system after the 2012 season as a minor league free agent. After playing with several other organizations since, he finally signed with Cincinnati this offseason and was assigned to AAA Louisville. Fortuitous, as the Reds horrendous bullpen led to wholesale demotions in the last several days and the callup of Diaz after pitching 11 years in the minors. Congrats to him!

[Nate Colbert]

Milb.com article on Josh Hader's season at Biloxi thus far.

Currently leads all AA pitchers in strikeouts and ERA.

Link

[Nate Colbert]

OF Ronnie Mitchell, released earlier this month, has been signed by the Marlins.

[Nate Colbert]

Nice debut for RHP Troy Scribner with his new organization:

In his first outing of 2016 following a trade to the Angels organization on April 1, Scribner pitched five hitless innings in Double-A Arkansas' 6-1 win over Springfield in the second game of a doubleheader at Hammons Field. Scribner struck out seven but allowed one run on four walks.

Entered the game with a 6.29 ERA, but threw 5 innings of 1-hit ball against the Hooks tonight.

[MusicMan]

Jim Salisbury ‏@JSalisburyCSN  1 hour ago
Mark Appel allowed 4 h, 4 r, 2 bb in two thirds IP for Lehigh Valley today. Velocity down significantly too. Topped at 89.

Appel's allowed 15 walks and 24 hits now over his last 21 2/3 IP.

And now on the DL with shoulder soreness.

[VirtualBob]

Jake Buchanan with 6 shut out innings and the win for I-Cubs tonight. Losing pitcher for Albuquerque? Jordan Lyles.

[Nate Colbert]

This'll be interesting--Josh Hader being promoted to AAA Colorado Springs.

[Jacksonian]

This'll be interesting--Josh Hader being promoted to AAA Colorado Springs.

He had no problem in Lancaster.

[Nate Colbert]

Ex-Bobcat Travis Ballew, released in ST by the Astros, had his contract sold to the Marlins by the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks. Pitched well in the indy American Association, ranking third in the league with 4 saves and posting a 1.64 ERA and 1.00 WHIP while whiffing 13 in 11 IP.

Hope he does well for Miami and eventually gets called to the bigs.

[bubba]

Though not technically an ex-bus rider, whatever happened to Brady Aiken?

[Reuben]

Though not technically an ex-bus rider, whatever happened to Brady Aiken?

Scheduled to make his pro debut Monday. Read all about it.

[Nate Colbert]

Thomas Lindauer (23rd rounder, 2013) pled guilty last month of "...using his cellphone to “lure” and “seduce” six minors to engage in sexual conduct". The investigation of the crimes began "sometime" in 2015. The Astros released him on June 26.

Link

[Duman]

Thomas Lindauer (23rd rounder, 2013) pled guilty last month of "...using his cellphone to “lure” and “seduce” six minors to engage in sexual conduct". The investigation of the crimes began "sometime" in 2015. The Astros released him on June 26.

Link

That is so sad and disappointing.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[bubba]

Brady Aiken was successful in his debut, albeit at a very low level. He walked his first batter who was later picked off by Mr. Aiken. He struck out the side in the second. Line- 2IP, 0H, 1BB, 3SO.

[pots]

Brady Aiken was successful in his debut, albeit at a very low level. He walked his first batter who was later picked off by Mr. Aiken. He struck out the side in the second. Line- 2IP, 0H, 1BB, 3SO.

Throws his first pro-inning 2 years after the fabled medical exam.  The vindication keeps rolling in. 

[Jacksonian]

Throws his first pro-inning 2 years after the fabled medical exam.  The vindication keeps rolling in.

In hindsight you could also ask the question who would you rather have Aiken/Nix or Bregman/Tucker?

[juliogotay]

In hindsight you could also ask the question who would you rather have Aiken/Nix or Bregman/Tucker?

OK, I'll  bite. Who would you rather have?

[mrpink]

In hindsight you could also ask the question who would you rather have Aiken/Nix or Bregman/Tucker?

Tucker shouldn't be part of that equation, right?  Wouldn't the question be Aiken/Nix/Marshall vs. Bregman?  I didn't think they got compensation for Nix or Marshall.

[bubba]

Where are Nix and Marshall?

[Jacksonian]

OK, I'll  bite. Who would you rather have?

Bregman/Tucker

[mrpink]

Where are Nix and Marshall?

San Diego and San Francisco, respectively.

[Jacksonian]

Tucker shouldn't be part of that equation, right?  Wouldn't the question be Aiken/Nix/Marshall vs. Bregman?  I didn't think they got compensation for Nix or Marshall.

I think he should be.  Without the Bregman pick at 2 I think the dynamic of the draft at the top changes.  If Bregman and Rodgers are both there for the Rockies who do they pick?  Then what do the Rangers do?  Still take the pitcher or whoever of Bregman and Rodgers are left?  Then without the extra money the #2 pick gives them what is the Astros draft strategy?  So I think the question is valid as it's what we have based on what really happened.

ETA:  Too I don't know that signing Marshall was a given in the same way the Nix signing would have been.

[mrpink]

I think he should be.  Without the Bregman pick at 2 I think the dynamic of the draft at the top changes.  If Bregman and Rodgers are both there for the Rockies who do they pick?  Then what do the Rangers do?  Still take the pitcher or whoever of Bregman and Rodgers are left?  Then without the extra money the #2 pick gives them what is the Astros draft strategy?  So I think the question is valid as it's what we have based on what really happened.

ETA:  Too I don't know that signing Marshall was a given in the same way the Nix signing would have been.

It easily could have changed their strategy, but Tucker didn't sign overslot.  Maybe the comparison should be Bregman/Cameron.  I could be mistaken, but I believe the Rockies wanted Rodgers the whole time so it would come down to Bregman vs. Dillon Tate for the Rangers and the Astros might have ended up with Bregman after all. 
Then, if they knew they couldn't sign Cameron they might have passed on him for the next guy picked....Tyler Nevin.  How's that for bad mojo?
You may be right about Marshall, I just assumed he was a given since he wanted 1.5 and that is what they reportedly offered.

[juliogotay]

Bregman/Tucker

Given the choice as laid out I would prefer Bregman/Tucker too. I think Bregman may be a special player.

[Jacksonian]

It easily could have changed their strategy, but Tucker didn't sign overslot.  Maybe the comparison should be Bregman/Cameron.  I could be mistaken, but I believe the Rockies wanted Rodgers the whole time so it would come down to Bregman vs. Dillon Tate for the Rangers and the Astros might have ended up with Bregman after all. 
Then, if they knew they couldn't sign Cameron they might have passed on him for the next guy picked....Tyler Nevin.  How's that for bad mojo?
You may be right about Marshall, I just assumed he was a given since he wanted 1.5 and that is what they reportedly offered.

You've kinda proven my point with all the if/then's.  Here's another fact.  With the savings last year across Bregman and Tucker they also signed 11th rounder Patrick Sandoval at $800,000 over slot.  A guy I think who stands as good a chance as Marshall at making it to the bigs.

[mrpink]

Right.  The only point I was trying to make was that it's definitely not one or the other.  That UCL had a whole butterfly effect on the next year's draft.

[Nate Colbert]

Juan Minaya claimed by the White Sox today.

[pots]

Juan Minaya claimed by the White Sox today.

I was a bit surprised by their choice in 40 man cuts.  Fontana (or Duffy) seemingly made more sense given they have 11 infielders already on the 40 man and Bregman/Reed still will need to be added in the next year.  Seriously doubt Fontana or Duffy ever get more than a September call up chance.

[Jacksonian]

I was a bit surprised by their choice in 40 man cuts.  Fontana (or Duffy) seemingly made more sense given they have 11 infielders already on the 40 man and Bregman/Reed still will need to be added in the next year.  Seriously doubt Fontana or Duffy ever get more than a September call up chance.

Probably better choices when included in a trade than an injured relief pitcher.

[pots]

Probably better choices when included in a trade than an injured relief pitcher.

I thought he was off the DL when they cut him, or did he re-injure himself that last game back?   Either way, Duffy and Fontana have almost no value and are likely not to survive the 40 man into next year.  Meh, likely all 3 of them wouldn't have been on the 40 man next spring so it really doesn't matter.

[Nate Colbert]

MLB Pipeline ‏@MLBPipeline  11 minutes ago
After being claimed by the @whitesox, Juan Minaya lands at No. 27 on their Top 30 list: Link

[VirtualBob]

I thought he was off the DL when they cut him, or did he re-injure himself that last game back?   

Off the DL, yes ... but probably just a formality ... he never really was active.  And the point remains that he has zero trade value even if he is worth a flier for a team with plenty of space on the 40-man.

[Nate Colbert]

Off the DL, yes ... but probably just a formality ... he never really was active.

He pitched an inning on the day he was taken off the DL. Retired all three batters he faced.

[VirtualBob]

He pitched an inning on the day he was taken off the DL. Retired all three batters he faced.

I missed that somehow. Thanks for the correction.

[Nate Colbert]

And in recent Atlantic League transactions:

1B Telvin Nash--hit .270/.391/.516 in 64 games for York last season after his release by the Astros. Has re-signed with York for 2016.

After hitting .275/.385/.565 this season and leading the Atlantic League with 15 home runs thru 54 games, Nash makes it back into affiliated ball after recently being signed by the White Sox.

(h/t Astros County)

[Duman]

Tyler Brunnemann was released by the Angles according to BA.  He had pitched in one game at AA & one game at AAA for them this season.  He had been shipped back to EST and was released before camp broke for the short season teams.

[Nate Colbert]

Another piece of that trade, Tom Eshelman at high A Clearwater has allowed just 7 hits and 2 ER over 19 IP in his first 3 starts and a 17/3 K to BB.

Was promoted to AA Reading this past week after whiffing 64 and walking just 11 in 59 IP for Clearwater.

[Reuben]

Was promoted to AA Reading this past week after whiffing 64 and walking just 11 in 59 IP for Clearwater.

11 BB in 59 IP actually seems like a ton of walks, for him.

[Jacksonian]

11 BB in 59 IP actually seems like a ton of walks, for him.

Well the 3 BB over 19 IP at high-A would add up to 9.3 BB over 59 IP so that's pretty close.

[Nate Colbert]

Well the 3 BB over 19 IP at high-A would add up to 9.3 BB over 59 IP so that's pretty close.

I'm pretty sure Reuben was referencing the ridiculously silly control he exhibited at CSF--just 18 walks in 376 IP in his three years there. Sports Illustrated even wrote an article about it.

[Jacksonian]

I'm pretty sure Reuben was referencing the ridiculously silly control he exhibited at CSF--just 18 walks in 376 IP in his three years there. Sports Illustrated even wrote an article about it.

That should just reemphasize the differences between college players overall and professionals.

[Nate Colbert]

That should just reemphasize the differences between college players overall and professionals.

I think you're missing the point. He was joking.

[VirtualBob]

Saw DDSjr this weekend at Dell Diamond. He is still a mess in the field. Ran in on one liner only to have it sail over his head to the wall for a double. On a later play, he cost a run with a terrible throw when everyone thought the runner should have been held at third.

[Nate Colbert]

Not all those ex-farmhands at Biloxi are shining. Jake Nottingham is hitting just .195 while Adrian Houser has an 8.63 ERA.

Houser now out with a right forearm strain.

[Reuben]

Not really sure what thread to put this in, but Cavan Biggio is off to a .340/.424/.420 start in the first 14 games of his pro career for the Blue Jays' Vancouver (short-season) team. 7 BB and 7 K. But only 1 HBP so far.

[Knoxbanedoodle]

That is good to see. I wish we'd gotten him.

[Nate Colbert]

This'll be interesting--Josh Hader being promoted to AAA Colorado Springs.

He had no problem in Lancaster.

23 hits and 8 walks allowed over 13 IP in his first three starts in Colorado Springs.

Hader, BTW, will be playing in the Futures Game tomorrow.

[Reuben]

That is good to see. I wish we'd gotten him.

Me too. I wonder what went on behind the scenes where the Astros decided not to spend a 4th or 5th round pick on him. And I wonder if Craig's a smidge pissed about it.

[Nate Colbert]

OF Ronnie Mitchell, released earlier this month, has been signed by the Marlins.

Currently hitting .318/.416/.485 at AA Jacksonville.

[Nate Colbert]

Brady Aiken was successful in his debut, albeit at a very low level. He walked his first batter who was later picked off by Mr. Aiken. He struck out the side in the second. Line- 2IP, 0H, 1BB, 3SO.

Not going so well since with velocity down and the Indians supposedly "worried" about his performance, says this poorly-written Today's Knuckeball article.

[VirtualBob]

Not going so well since with velocity down and the Indians supposedly "worried" about his performance, says this poorly-written Today's Knuckeball article.

Is this the same knucklehead that showed up in the GZ yesterday?

[tbone421998]

Is this the same knucklehead that showed up in the GZ yesterday?

Can't be as i didn't see one ha ha, lol or buddy in there.

[Nate Colbert]

Nice debut for RHP Troy Scribner with his new organization:

In his first outing of 2016 following a trade to the Angels organization on April 1, Scribner pitched five hitless innings in Double-A Arkansas' 6-1 win over Springfield in the second game of a doubleheader at Hammons Field. Scribner struck out seven but allowed one run on four walks.

Link

Scribner currently ranks 3rd in the Texas League with a 1.18 WHIP.

[Nate Colbert]

Houser now out with a right forearm strain.

Which of course led to the inevitable TJ surgery.

[Nate Colbert]

The Tigers signed recently-released Tommy Shirley and assigned him to AA Erie.

[Reuben]

Which of course led to the inevitable TJ surgery.

I noticed Brett Phillips was having a rough go back in AA this year (.224/.322/.408 with 12 HR but 120 K in 90 games). Nor has Domingo Santana been able to match his 2015 success. Of course, Hader dominated at AA before moving up, and it's still very possible that any one of those 3 guys could turn into a good major leaguer and make the Gomez/Fiers deal look really embarrassing.

[juliogotay]

I noticed Brett Phillips was having a rough go back in AA this year (.224/.322/.408 with 12 HR but 120 K in 90 games). Nor has Domingo Santana been able to match his 2015 success. Of course, Hader dominated at AA before moving up, and it's still very possible that any one of those 3 guys could turn into a good major leaguer and make the Gomez/Fiers deal look really embarrassing.

Ironic if he turns into a Chris Sale-type pitcher.

[Reuben]

Ironic if he turns into a Chris Sale-type pitcher.

He's been compared to Sale for years now, due to similar physique and delivery/arm angle. The persistent question by scouts/experts seems to be whether he has enough command of his offspeed stuff to make it as a starter. So probably has a floor of a useful RP.

[Nate Colbert]

Nice debut for RHP Troy Scribner with his new organization:

"In his first outing of 2016 following a trade to the Angels organization on April 1, Scribner pitched five hitless innings in Double-A Arkansas' 6-1 win over Springfield in the second game of a doubleheader at Hammons Field. Scribner struck out seven but allowed one run on four walks."

Scribner currently ranks 3rd in the Texas League with a 1.18 WHIP.

Outstanding in his AAA debut for Salt Lake City last night, tossing a 2-hitter.

[Nate Colbert]

After hitting .275/.385/.565 this season and leading the Atlantic League with 15 home runs thru 54 games, Telvin Nash makes it back into affiliated ball after recently being signed by the White Sox.

Currently batting .250/.415/.564 for Winston-Salem in the Carolina League (that's high A ball of course).

[MusicMan]

Telvin Nash popped 50 games for amphetamines today.


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[juliogotay]

Telvin Nash popped 50 games for amphetamines today.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I figured he'd be in a beer league by now.

[Duman]

Andrew Thurman who was the 2nd round pick in 2013 and then traded to the Braves in the Evan Gattis deal, was released by the Braves.  He had posted a 6.89 ERA in 19 games this year in AA.

The other two prospects in that deal sent to the Braves were Rio Ruiz (.271/.356/.398 in AAA) and Folty.  Folty has a 4.45 ERA in 16 games for the Braves. 

The Astros got Gattis & James Hoyt.

[Nate Colbert]

Catcher Alfredo Gonzalez has hit .319/.381/.370 in 35 games for AA Birmingham since being traded last month. Apparently he's being considered for a Sept callup by the White Sox.

[Nate Colbert]

Ross Seaton, former 3rd round pick (2008) out of 2nd Baptist HS who spent 7 years in the organization before signing with the Tigers as a MLFA before the 2015 season, was released by Detroit.

Was signed earlier this month by the Bridgeport Bluefish of the Atlantic League. His teammates on the indy league team include former Astros' pitchers David Carpenter and Sammy Gervacio.

[Lefty]

Ross Seaton, former 3rd round pick (2008)

Was signed earlier this month by the Bridgeport Bluefish of the Atlantic League. His teammates on the indy league team include former Astros' pitchers David Carpenter and Sammy Gervacio.

My mom taught him in Kindergarten, he couldn't hit a plate back then either.

[Nate Colbert]

And in recent Atlantic League transactions:

OF Fehlandt Lentini--the 38 year-old signs on for a 3rd season with the Long Island Ducks. 2016 will mark his 16th year playing minor league ball. Way to hang in there, Feh!

Amazing. Two weeks past his 39th birthday, Lentini is 2nd in the Atlantic League with a .324 batting average.

[Nate Colbert]

Juan Minaya claimed by the White Sox today.

Called up to the bigs and made his MLB debut Thursday night, pitching a scoreless inning against the Twins.

[Nate Colbert]

Ariel Ovando - taken by the Angels from the Cubs (he is a pitcher now)

Struggled this year with the Orem Owlz in the Pioneer League--a 7.27 ERA and 2.04 WHIP in 26 IP (35 hits and 18 walks allowed).

[Duman]

Brief busrider Josh Magee played a significant role in the South Alabama defeat of Miss. St last weekend.  He caught 7 passes for 113 yrds and a touchdown.  Story of his journey from Baseball to Football.  Also talks about his dad former MLB Wendell

[Nate Colbert]

Once the International League Championship Series is over, Rio Ruiz is expected to be called up by the Braves.

[Nate Colbert]

Once the International League Championship Series is over, Rio Ruiz is expected to be called up by the Braves.

He did get called up today.

[Nate Colbert]

Once the International League Championship Series is over, Rio Ruiz is expected to be called up by the Braves.

He did get called up today.

Popped out in his first plate appearance as a major leaguer yesterday.

[Nate Colbert]

MLFA R.J. Alaniz signed with the Tigers.

BA Transactions Page

Again a MLFA, Alaniz re-signed with Detroit after posting a 2.69 ERA and 1.37 WHIP in 2016 in time split between AA Erie and AAA Toledo.

BA Transactions Page

[Nate Colbert]

Ex-Red Raider Bobby Doran, drafted in the 4th round in 2010 and then traded to the CWS in 2014, was just signed to a minor league deal with the BJs. He pitched (badly) in the indy leagues in 2015.

Andrew Robinson, 12th-rounder in the same draft as Doran, signed a similar deal with the Nats.

BA Transactions Page

Speaking of MLFAs who have re-signed with the same organization, Robinson did so with Washington. Though he turns 29 in February, he pitched mostly at AA Bowie in 2016 where he posted 65 Ks vs 17 Ws in 58 IP.

BA Transactions Page

[Duman]

Former Bus Rider Jordan Mills makes the Indy Ball top 20 at # 10 http://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/dalton-wheat-art-charles-top-loaded-indy-prospects-list/?_wcsid=6D7AC5A0226DF457AB74003610640D76E0BD81DE042395D5#abFZTAwHbiTcRu4u.97


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[Nate Colbert]

Former Bus Rider Jordan Mills makes the Indy Ball top 20 at # 10 http://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/dalton-wheat-art-charles-top-loaded-indy-prospects-list/?_wcsid=6D7AC5A0226DF457AB74003610640D76E0BD81DE042395D5#abFZTAwHbiTcRu4u.97

Also on that list:

Danny Reynolds, who was in ST earlier this year with the Astros, was named the 6th-best prospect after whiffing 27 and walking 3 in 16 IP while pitching this past season for the Laredo Lemurs who are managed by former stro Pete Incaviglia.

[Nate Colbert]

Telvin Nash was re-signed by the White Sox for 2017 according to the BA Transactions page.

[roadrunner]

BA came out with their Braves top 10 prospects and Rio Ruiz was not on the list.

[Reuben]

BA came out with their Braves top 10 prospects and Rio Ruiz was not on the list.

That doesn't surprise me. Their system is very highly regarded now.

I didn't realize until I looked him up just now that Ruiz had a cup of coffee in the bigs this year. Good for him. Decent year in AAA too, though I doubt they consider him the 3B of the future.

[Nate Colbert]

I didn't realize until I looked him up just now that Ruiz had a cup of coffee in the bigs this year.

Once the International League Championship Series is over, Rio Ruiz is expected to be called up by the Braves.

He did get called up today.

Popped out in his first plate appearance as a major leaguer yesterday.

Three.

Separate.

Posts.

[Reuben]

Three.

Separate.

Posts.

Sometimes I have trouble rememb'rin' thangs.