Corpus Christi 2017

[Duman]

Get your hooks fix here.

[Duman]

Jacob Dorris will be there

[Nate Colbert]

J.D. Davis confirmed via tweet he's returning as well.

[Nate Colbert]

George Vondracek of CC Caller tweeted out Hooks preliminary roster:

PITCHERS (13): Jacob Dorris, Kevin Comer, Dean Deetz, Cy Sneed, Rogelio Armenteros, Joshua James, Ryan Thompson, Kent Emanuel, Trent Thornton, Michael Freeman, Brock Dykxhoorn, Eric Peterson, Kyle Smith
CATCHERS (3): Garrett Stubbs, Trent Woodward, Jamie Ritchie
INF (6): Mott Hyde, Jack Mayfield, Antonio Nunez, Jon Singleton, Bryan Muniz, J.D. Davis
OF (3): Ramon Laureano, Drew Ferguson, Alejandro Garcia

[Nate Colbert]

Since we already knew Davis was going to be returning, position player-wise the demotion of Singleton to AA for the first time since 2013 is really the only item of note.

As far as the pitching staff, 11 of the 13 hurlers are returnees. Only Dykxhoorn and James (both up from Lancaster) did not spend all or part of 2016 with the Hooks.

[jbm]

This roster isn't exactly calling me to go watch them.  Seems like a weaker roster than in the recent past.

[moriartp]

Kevin Comer is still with the organization? Wow.

[Reuben]

This roster isn't exactly calling me to go watch them.  Seems like a weaker roster than in the recent past.

I had the same initial reaction. Stubbs and Laureano are both very intriguing, though. Deetz could be a sleeper/breakout candidate. Davis and Singleton will knock some dingers. Ferguson and Garcia will be interesting to monitor. I'm still pulling for Emanuel to make it as a crafty MLB LH SP.

[Nate Colbert]

I'm still pulling for Emanuel to make it as a crafty MLB LH SP.

I'm not terribly hopeful, but perhaps everything finally comes together for him in the 2nd year back after the Tommy John.

[Nate Colbert]

I had the same initial reaction. Stubbs and Laureano are both very intriguing, though. Deetz could be a sleeper/breakout candidate. Davis and Singleton will knock some dingers. Ferguson and Garcia will be interesting to monitor.

No real high upside guys on the Hooks' roster, to be sure, but would add Trent Thornton to the guys you mentioned as someone who's at least mildly interesting. BTW (and I've probably mentioned it before), he was a 2013 teammate on the Tarheels with Emanuel and Moran.

[geezerdonk]

I think Dorris is one to watch.

[Nate Colbert]

No surprises here:

"Right-handers Rogelio Armenteros, Dean Deetz, Brock Dykxhoorn, Joshua James, Trent Thornton, Cy Sneed, Kyle Smith, and southpaw Kent Emanuel fill out Corpus Christi's starting pitching staff."

Link

Thornton is apparently the probable for Thursday night's opener.

[juliogotay]

I had the same initial reaction. Stubbs and Laureano are both very intriguing, though. Deetz could be a sleeper/breakout candidate. Davis and Singleton will knock some dingers. Ferguson and Garcia will be interesting to monitor. I'm still pulling for Emanuel to make it as a crafty MLB LH SP.

I would add Armenteros to the watch list.

[Nate Colbert]

After a couple of excellent outings, Kevin Comer has been bumped up to Fresno.

[astrosfan76]

After a couple of excellent outings, Kevin Comer has been bumped up to Fresno.

Being replaced by Riley Ferrell.

[Nate Colbert]

Some additional moves involving pitchers today:

• LHP Sean Stutzman (NDFA in 2016 out of DBU) up from EST
• RHP Cy Sneed is off the active roster

[Reuben]

Being replaced by Riley Ferrell.

2 innings at BC, that was quick. Hope he didn't put up a deposit on an apartment.

[Nate Colbert]

Sam Levitt @SammyLev 2m ago
.@astros prospect RHP Riley Ferrell made AA debut tonight here in Corpus Christi: 1 scoreless IP and 1 K. Saw he hit 95 MPH a few times.

[Nate Colbert]

Garrett Stubbs remains day to day after tweaking that left hammy last Sunday.

[Nate Colbert]

Garrett Stubbs remains day to day after tweaking that left hammy last Sunday.

Placed on 7-day DL today, retroactive to Apr. 14 according to both Astros beat writers (even though Stubbs last played on Apr. 9).

Offsetting roster move was the activation of Cy Sneed (CC still has 2 catchers on the active roster with Ritchie and Woodward).

[Nate Colbert]

Nice milb.com profile of OF Drew Ferguson.

[Reuben]

Nice milb.com profile of OF Drew Ferguson.

Good read, thanks.

[Nate Colbert]

As noted in Grizz thread, Stutzman and Thompson move to AAA. Offsetting moves was RHP Andrew Thome promoted from the BC Astros and OF Bobby Boyd recovering from injury and being activated out of EST.

[Nate Colbert]

A quartet of Hooks' hitters all getting hot at the same time. JD Davis, Drew Ferguson and Ramon Laureano are all riding 9-game hitting streaks while Alejandro Garcia is batting .520 with 3 doubles, 2 HRs and 7 RBIs over his last 5 games.

[Nate Colbert]

Garrett Stubbs remains day to day after tweaking that left hammy last Sunday.

Placed on 7-day DL today, retroactive to Apr. 14 according to both Astros beat writers (even though Stubbs last played on Apr. 9).

Activated from DL today.

Brock Dykxhoorn de-activated offsetting roster move.

[VirtualBob]

Activated from DL today.

Brock Dykxhoorn de-activated offsetting roster move.

And in the lineup at DH.  Woodward catching.

[Nate Colbert]

AA remains no problem for Dean Deetz. In 5 games going back to last season, the NEO A&M guy has given up just 1 run in 25.2 IP on 11 hits while K'ing 30 and walking only 5.

[Nate Colbert]

In his first action behind the plate since coming off DL, Stubbs pulled from game tonight after ending B5 on a groundout. Obvious question is whether precautionary or he re-aggravated the hammy.

[Nate Colbert]

Flurry of moves today:

• As noted in the other thread, pitchers Deemes and Garza up from BC
• Pitchers Trent Thornton and Kyle Smith de-activated
• INF Jack Mayfield up to the Grizz (obviously taking Kemp's spot there)
• INF Tyler Wolfe, 39th-rounder from K-State in 2016 who was at TRC and Greeneville last season, up from EST to fill in

[Nate Colbert]

In his first action behind the plate since coming off DL, Stubbs pulled from game tonight after ending B5 on a groundout. Obvious question is whether precautionary or he re-aggravated the hammy.

The former as he was back in the lineup tonight as the DH.

[Nate Colbert]

Today's roster machinations:

• RHP Akeem Bostick promoted from Buies Creek
• RHP Rogelio Armenteros de-activated
• RHP Brock Dykxhoorn activated
• RHP Josh James de-activated

[Nate Colbert]

• Pitchers Trent Thornton and Kyle Smith de-activated

Prior to yesterday's game: Smith activated, Cy Sneed de-activated.

[Nate Colbert]

Garrett Stubbs over his last 5 games: 10-20 with 3 homers and 2 doubles.

[Mr. Happy]

Garrett Stubbs over his last 5 games: 10-20 with 3 homers and 2 doubles.

Luhnow was talking about Stubbs today. He said that they thought that he could be an every day catcher in the big leagues.

[Nate Colbert]

Very nice profile of Jacob Dorris on the Hooks' website.

Really, do give it a read.

[juliogotay]

Very nice profile of Jacob Dorris on the Hooks' website.

Really, do give it a read.

I read it. I'm pulling for him particularly since he pitched college ball in my old home-town of Corpus. Great story.

[Nate Colbert]

Today's roster machinations:

• RHP Rogelio Armenteros de-activated
• RHP Josh James de-activated

Both activated with both Ryan Deemes and Ralph Garza going back to BC after 5 days with the Hooks.

[Nate Colbert]

Roster moves today:

• RHP Cy Sneed activated.
• RHP Jacob Dorris de-activated.
• LHP Carlos Hiraldo is activated for the first time this season to serve apparently as a temporary arm. Currently 20, he was signed out of the DR as a 16-year old back in 2013. He pitched in the Appy last year.
• INF J.D. Davis to 7-day DL.

[Nate Colbert]

Hand issue the reason Akeem Bostick pulled after just 1/3 of an inning tonight.

[Nate Colbert]

Hand issue the reason Akeem Bostick pulled after just 1/3 of an inning tonight.

Goes to 7-day DL. Jacob Dorris activated.

[juliogotay]

AA remains no problem for Dean Deetz. In 5 games going back to last season, the NEO A&M guy has given up just 1 run in 25.2 IP on 11 hits while K'ing 30 and walking only 5.

Luhnow and Sparks were talking about Deetz today on the radio pregame. Deetz hit 97 MPH on the gun recently in a game. Luhnow thinks his future is bullpen.

[Reuben]

Luhnow and Sparks were talking about Deetz today on the radio pregame. Deetz hit 97 MPH on the gun recently in a game. Luhnow thinks his future is bullpen.

Does that rule out a near future of replacing Fiers in the rotation?

[Nate Colbert]

INF Antonio Nunez goes to 7-day DL and is replaced on the roster by INF Kristian Trompiz. Trompiz of course was signed for $320K out of Venezuela back in 2012. Offensive numbers have mostly been underwhelming in his 4 years in the system, including last year at QC and Lancaster.

[Nate Colbert]

So Armenteros now in 9 appearances in AA going back to last season: 50 Ks vs 14 BBs in 46.1 IP with 37 hits allowed.

[Nate Colbert]

J.D. Davis comes off 7-day DL, Mott Hyde to temporarily inactive list.

[Nate Colbert]

CC carousel:

• 7th round pick in 2015 Michael Freeman has been released, according to Jake Kaplan.
• RHP Eric Peterson has been released as well.
• LHP Sean Stutzman was activated.
• LHP Albert Minnis off the DL and active for the 1st time this season.
• INF Tyler Wolfe was de-activated.
• SS Antonio Nunez activated off the 7-day DL.

[Nate Colbert]

• LHP Carlos Hiraldo is activated for the first time this season to serve apparently as a temporary arm. Currently 20, he was signed out of the DR as a 16-year old back in 2013. He pitched in the Appy last year.

Hiraldo de-activated, RHP Ryan Thompson back from Fresno to take his spot.

[Nate Colbert]

• INF Jack Mayfield up to the Grizz (obviously taking Kemp's spot there)

Mayfield returned to CC today.

Kent Emanuel being de-activated was the offsetting move.

[Nate Colbert]

Armenteros (1.25), Deetz (1.30) and Josh James (1.87) are 1st, 2nd and 4th in the Texas League in ERA. Deetz (0.87), Armenteros (1.00) and James (1.16) run 1st, 4th and 11th in WHIP in the TL.

[Nate Colbert]

Hand issue the reason Akeem Bostick pulled after just 1/3 of an inning tonight.

Goes to 7-day DL. Jacob Dorris activated.

Bostick activated today (and is listed as today's starter), Ryan Thompson returns to Fresno.

[Nate Colbert]

From the Hooks' game notes:

OF Drew Ferguson went 2-for-5 Saturday night, extending his hit streak to 17 games. Ferguson now owns the 4th-longest hit streak in Hooks history. OF Jorge Cortes has the club record, hitting safely in 27 consecutive games during the 2006 TL Championship campaign. IF Tommy Manzella posted a 20-game hit streak in 2008 and C J.R. House notched an 18-gamer in 2006.

Ferguson is batting .343 with 4 doubles, 2 home runs, 5 RBIs and a .405 on-base average during this surge, which is the 2nd-longest active streak in the Texas League. Chuck Taylor of Arkansas has hit safely in his last 21 assignments.

Hold up your hand if you even remember Jorge Cortes from that 2006 season. (That was the only year he played in the system.)

[VirtualBob]

From the Hooks' game notes:

Hold up your hand if you even remember Jorge Cortes from that 2006 season. (That was the only year he played in the system.)

Me.

[VirtualBob]

Bostick activated today (and is listed as today's starter), Ryan Thompson returns to Fresno.

6 shutout innings and the win.  Welcome back.

[Nate Colbert]

In today's morning/afternoon tilt, Drew Ferguson extends hit streak to 19 games. J.D. Davis hits his 10th home run, tying Derek Fisher for most by an Astros' minor leaguer.

[Nate Colbert]

Whole shitload of transactions:

• Jon Singleton suspended.
• Josh James also suspended.
• Dean Deetz to 7-day DL.
• Kent Emanuel activated.
• Alex Winkelman up from BC.
• Yohan Ramirez also up from BC.

Both Winkelman and Ramirez will start in tomorrow's doubleheader (includes the makeup of the game washed out tonight which Emanuel started).

[WVastro]

Whole shitload of transactions:

• Jon Singleton suspended.
• Josh James also suspended.
• Dean Deetz to 7-day DL.
• Kent Emanuel activated.
• Alex Winkelman up from BC.
• Yohan Ramirez also up from BC.

Both Winkelman and Ramirez will start in tomorrow's doubleheader (includes the makeup of the game washed out tonight which Emanuel started).

Whoa. What's this about Singleton?

[tbone421998]

Whoa. What's this about Singleton?

If it's for the same thing, you have to wonder if the Astros just cut him.

[Reuben]

If it's for the same thing, you have to wonder if the Astros just cut him.

The same thing what? If you mean weed, that would be an MILB suspension, not team. And that was about 4 years ago, so I fail to see why they would "just cut him" anyway.

[Nate Colbert]

Impressive. Yohan Ramirez, a guy who was pitching in the DSL a year ago (and remains faceless on milb.com), whiffs 8 over 4.2 IP in his AA debut.

[Nate Colbert]

With hits in both ends of the doubleheader, Drew Ferguson now has a 21-gamer.

[Nate Colbert]

OF Bobby Boyd (8th rounder, 2014) and INF Mott Hyde (26th rounder, 2014) have both retired.

[Knoxbanedoodle]

It's an epidemic! What's going on? Do we have low morale in the minors?

[Duman]

It is not uncommon to see releases and retirements happen as the draft approaches.  I actually see the retirements as a good thing.  I think it says something about a player when they see the writing on the wall and want to get on with life rather them having the "they can have this glove when they pry it out of my cold dead fingers" mindset.

It also makes me wonder if the players are getting feedback from the team about what role they can expect to play.  Some guys aren't okay just being on the team and coaching 1st. 

[MusicMan]

Twitter reports say Tucker and Jason Martin are Corpus-bound.

ETA: Tags confirms

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Nate Colbert]

Twitter reports say Tucker and Jason Martin are Corpus-bound.

In a more fill the gap-type move, Arturo Michelena also up from BC.

[Nate Colbert]

OF Bobby Boyd (8th rounder, 2014) and INF Mott Hyde (26th rounder, 2014) have both retired.

You can now add LHP Albert Minnis (25th round, 2013) to that voluntary retired list.

[Duman]

In a more fill the gap-type move, Arturo Michelena also up from BC.

I was part time PA announcer in Gville when he was there.  One of my favorite names to say.   

[juliogotay]

Tucker taking to AA OK in first game. 2-4 with a HR and 2B. Batting 2nd and playing RF.

[Navin R Johnson]

Tucker taking to AA OK in first game. 2-4 with a HR and 2B. Batting 2nd and playing RF.

Video
http://www.milb.com/r/video?content_id=1450992383&topic_id=&sid=t482&tcid=vpp_copy_1450992383&v=3

And his 1st AA hit
http://www.milb.com/r/video?content_id=1446728983&topic_id=&sid=t482&tcid=vpp_copy_1446728983&v=3

[juliogotay]

I see Dickie Joe Thon plays for Springfield.

[Nate Colbert]

Michael Coffin @CoffinMJC 12m ago
15 up and 15 down for Kyle Smith tonight. Thru his last 7 outings, Smith has allowed 3 earned runs in 34 innings for a 0.79 ERA

[Nate Colbert]

It appears Jon Singleton has been suspended for a second time. The CC roster at milb.com also lists Akeem Bostick as being suspended.

In other roster news, lefty Framber Valdez has been promoted from BC.

[Nate Colbert]

In other roster news, lefty Framber Valdez has been promoted from BC.

Walks remain an issue but a reasonably credible AA debut tonight: 6 IP 3 H 2 ER 4 W 3 K.

[WVastro]

It appears Jon Singleton has been suspended for a second time. The CC roster at milb.com also lists Akeem Bostick as being suspended.

In other roster news, lefty Framber Valdez has been promoted from BC.

Is this a second time this season or is this the previously mentioned suspension?

[Nate Colbert]

Is this a second time this season or is this the previously mentioned suspension?

2nd time this season.

[Nate Colbert]

It appears Jon Singleton has been suspended for a second time. The CC roster at milb.com also lists Akeem Bostick as being suspended.

Both off suspension and activated today.

[Nate Colbert]

Michael Coffin @CoffinMJC 12m ago
15 up and 15 down for Kyle Smith tonight. Thru his last 7 outings, Smith has allowed 3 earned runs in 34 innings for a 0.79 ERA

After tonight: 40 IP, 25 H, 7 W, 38 K, 0.68 ERA.

[VirtualBob]

Both off suspension and activated today.

Is there any info on why these suspensions are happening?

[Duman]

Just my wild theory here but I wonder if there was a clause in the Singleton contract that had something to do with behavior.  I wonder if they are building a case for termination of contract. 

[VirtualBob]

Just my wild theory here but I wonder if there was a clause in the Singleton contract that had something to do with behavior.  I wonder if they are building a case for termination of contract.

Perhaps.  But why Bostick & [lazy] whoever the other guy was [/lazy]?

[Nate Colbert]

RHP Andrew Walter promoted from BC.

[Nate Colbert]

ICYMI:

Catcher Garrett Stubbs, first baseman Jon Singleton, third baseman J.D. Davis, outfielder Drew Ferguson, infielder Jack Mayfield, and pitchers Rogelio Armenteros and Kyle Smith were named to the Texas League All-Star squad.

Smith of course won't participate in the game after having been promoted to Fresno.

[Nate Colbert]

J.D. Davis hitting .356/.418/.712 thus far in June. On the year, leads the Texas League in HRs and slugging and 2nd in OPS.

[VirtualBob]

J.D. Davis hitting .356/.418/.712 thus far in June. On the year, leads the Texas League in HRs and slugging and 2nd in OPS.

He belongs at AAA but it is full.

[juliogotay]

He belongs at AAA but it is full.

May give an idea what stack Luhnow may deal from. Along with pitching stack.

[Nate Colbert]

Yoanys Quiala promoted from BC.

[Nate Colbert]

Ian Steele @IanSteeleKIII 55m ago
Hooks manager @RondeyLinares on Rogelio Armenteros, "His changeup reminds me of (Chris) Devenski's changeup."

[geezerdonk]

Yoanys Quiala promoted from BC.

When is he going to show up on a top prospects list?

[Nate Colbert]

Yoanys Quiala promoted from BC.

None too shabby debut tonight: 6 IP 4 H 2 R 1 BB 8 K.

[Nate Colbert]

During his 13 gamer, Jason Martin is batting .442 with 12 runs, 5 doubles, 1 triple, 3 home runs and 10 RBIs.

[Nate Colbert]

Bryan Muniz (22nd rounder from 2014) has been released and Dex McCall has been called up from BC.

[Navin R Johnson]

http://m.mlb.com/news/article/238863284/prospect-team-of-week-led-by-peter-alonso/?topicid=151437456

MLBPipeline.com's Prospect Team of the Week honors the best performances from the previous seven days. Any player currently on an organization Top 30 Prospects list on our Prospect Watch is eligible.

OF: Kyle Tucker, Corpus Christi Hooks (Double-A)
(Astros No. 2 prospect//MLB No. 29)
7 G, .310/.344/.793, 7 R, 9 H, 2 2B, 4 HR, 11 RBI, 2 BB, 8 SO, 1 SB, 1 CS

It took Tucker a little while to get acclimated to Double-A at age 20, but he showed why he's one of the very best hitting prospects in baseball by drilling four homers in seven games last week. He's now batting .257/.307/.514 with six homers in 25 Double-A games and .277/.353/.539 with 15 homers in 73 games overall.

[jbm]

I tend to ignore "prospects" until they reach AA.  Before then, it seems like needless speculation.  However, both Tucker and Martin have transitioned real well to AA.  Combine them with Fisher and it sure brightens the outlook.

[Nate Colbert]

ICYMI:

Catcher Garrett Stubbs, first baseman Jon Singleton, third baseman J.D. Davis, outfielder Drew Ferguson, infielder Jack Mayfield, and pitchers Rogelio Armenteros and Kyle Smith were named to the Texas League All-Star squad.

Smith of course won't participate in the game after having been promoted to Fresno.

Ferguson 2-3 w/ 2 walks in the game, Davis 2-4 w/ a double, Stubbs tripled in 3 runs, Armenteros allowed a couple of runs on 3 hits.

[Nate Colbert]

In June:

JD Davis .343/.404/.627 with 7 homers.

[austro]

In June:

JD Davis .343/.404/.627 with 7 homers.

Can he pitch?

[Nate Colbert]

Framber Valdez up from BC, taking Armenteros' spot.

Also, Josh James goes to the DL.

[Nate Colbert]

Framber flummoxes the Travelers in his 2nd AA start (after that fill-in start back on June 9):

6 IP 2 H 1 R 3 BB 9 K.

[Nate Colbert]

Nick Hernandez promoted from BC.

[Nate Colbert]

Kyle Tucker to the Inactive List (Futures Game) and OF Bryan de la Cruz up from TRC to fill in.

[Nate Colbert]

Both activated with both Ryan Deemes and Ralph Garza going back to BC after 5 days with the Hooks.

Garza back with the Hooks.

[VirtualBob]

Interesting. JD Davis gets the start in RF tonight.

[moriartp]

Interesting. JD Davis gets the start in RF tonight.

That's cool. Gotta find some way to get the guy up to AAA.

[Jacksonian]

That's cool. Gotta find some way to get the guy up to AAA.

Or maximize his trade value.

[Lefty]

Or maximize his trade value.

How many positions has Tyler White played this year?  5?

[Nate Colbert]

How many positions has Tyler White played this year?  5?

All 4 infield spots.

[Lefty]

All 4 infield spots.

Didn't know if they stuck him in left (or hell, catcher) at all so far.

What do you think or what do they say about his experiment at SS/2B?  Just trying to up his versatility?  The White I saw last year had no business in the middle IF.

[Tonywatson]

I look at their lineup on twitter every day and White has played pretty equal amount of games at each IF position, with the fewest seemingly at 1B. I think some of it is roster necessity and some is to make him more versatile. Moran has played some 1B and a little LF.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Nate Colbert]

Interesting. JD Davis gets the start in RF tonight.

CC was down 2 outfielders*. Drew Ferguson has been out the last 3 games with a stiff back. Kyle Tucker had already left for the Futures Game. I suppose they could have put Martin in RF and Davis in LF but Martin has played relatively little RF in his career and Davis presumably has the stronger arm.

*not counting the 20-year old fill-in kid Bryan De La Cruz.

[VirtualBob]

Or maximize his trade value.

This would be my guess. And yes, I did know about the OF shortage.

[Nate Colbert]

Not a tremendous amount here but thought I'd pass it on anyway...

Luhnow was asked on the pregame show today by Sparks/Ford about the recently-promoted Nick Hernandez. Talked about his good control and that unlike most relievers has a 3-pitch repertoire--a 90-93 FB w/good movement, sharp slider and a change.

Also was asked about Armenteros. Said that he gets a lot of swing and misses on his 91-93 FB because of the movement on it. Also of course noted his plus plus changeup. Said he knows a player is getting close when Hinch starts asking about him, which happened recently regards Armenteros.

[Reuben]

Not a tremendous amount here but thought I'd pass it on anyway...

Luhnow was asked on the pregame show today by Sparks/Ford about the recently-promoted Nick Hernandez. Talked about his good control and that unlike most relievers has a 3-pitch repertoire--a 90-93 FB w/good movement, sharp slider and a change.

Also was asked about Armenteros. Said that he gets a lot of swing and misses on his 91-93 FB because of the movement on it. Also of course noted his plus plus changeup. Said he knows a player is getting close when Hinch starts asking about him, which happened recently regards Armenteros.

I love hearing that stuff, and I seem to always miss the Sunday pregame with Luhnow. Thanks.

[juliogotay]

I love hearing that stuff, and I seem to always miss the Sunday pregame with Luhnow. Thanks.

I think it was Nate that posted a line on the astros.com website a while back where you can go and hear the Sunday Luhnow interviews  on radio pre-game. Here is the link for today's radio interview with Luhnow. http://houston.astros.mlb.com/fan_forum/podcasts/index.jsp?c_id=hou

[Uncle Charlie]

Ramon Laureano with a rare 5 hit night. Though struggling in the first half of the season, his now hitting .500 in July over 8 games. Without the 5 hit night he was still hitting .400+ for the month. Hopefully he's returning to form. 2016 was a promising effort.

[Nate Colbert]

Drew Ferguson goes to DL because of that back issue.

[Nate Colbert]

After another nice outing for BC tonight, Franklin Perez was promoted to CC.

He'll be the youngest player in the Texas League.

[Nate Colbert]

Quinton Martinez  @qmartinez 59s ago
UPDATE: Kyle Tucker came out of last night's game as a precaution with back discomfort. Which is also why he is out of the lineup tonight.

[Nate Colbert]

Also, Josh James goes to the DL.

Activated today.

[Nate Colbert]

After another nice outing for BC tonight, Franklin Perez was promoted to CC.

He'll be the youngest player in the Texas League.

And a fairly rough debut for the 19-year old: 3 IP 6 H 2 ER 2 W 1 K.

[Nate Colbert]

Quinton Martinez  @qmartinez 59s ago
UPDATE: Kyle Tucker came out of last night's game as a precaution with back discomfort. Which is also why he is out of the lineup tonight.

Goes to DL today.

[Nate Colbert]

Also, Josh James goes to the DL.

Activated today.

3 scoreless/hitless frames last night in his first appearance in over two weeks. On the Hooks pregame tonight, said he came in throwing 98/99 in the first inning.

[Nate Colbert]

INF Ryne Birk promoted from BC.

[Nate Colbert]

Hey, nice play Ryan Thompson!

[VirtualBob]

INF Ryne Birk promoted from BC.

With Moran headed to Houston, I imagine this is a chance for JD Davis to get regular time at 3B in Fresno (while Mayfield slides to 3B to make room for Birk). Any official word?

edited to correct the #autocorrupt feature

[Navin R Johnson]

JD Davis to Fresno

an Steele‏ @IanSteeleKIII 2h2 hours ago

#BREAKING: Astros 3B prospect JD Davis promoted to Triple-A Fresno from Double-A Corpus Christi Hooks, per source. #Astros

[Nate Colbert]

JD Davis to Fresno

an Steele‏ @IanSteeleKIII 2h2 hours ago

#BREAKING: Astros 3B prospect JD Davis promoted to Triple-A Fresno from Double-A Corpus Christi Hooks, per source. #Astros

Offsetting move was RHP Andrew Thome returning from Fresno after making 3 appearances there.

[VirtualBob]

Offsetting move was RHP Andrew Thome returning from Fresno after making 3 appearances there.

With Birk up from BC and Moran to Houston, I thought those would have been the offsetting moves (at AAA & AA both) for the Davis promotion.  If Thome is coming back down, that implies (IMO) some other move(s) at both levels.

[Nate Colbert]

With Birk up from BC and Moran to Houston, I thought those would have been the offsetting moves (at AAA & AA both) for the Davis promotion.  If Thome is coming back down, that implies (IMO) some other move(s) at both levels.

As far as CC, fill-in guy Ihan Bernal went back to the GCL.

As far as Fresno, you're mistaken:

When Moran moved up and West/Perez were released, three roster spots opened up. Those 3 roster spots were immediately filled when David Martinez, Kent Emanuel and Dean Deetz were all brought off the inactive list.

So Davis up and Thome down were offsetting moves for Fresno.

[VirtualBob]

As far as CC, fill-in guy Ihan Bernal went back to the GCL.

As far as Fresno, you're mistaken:

When Moran moved up and West/Perez were released, three roster spots opened up. Those 3 roster spots were immediately filled when David Martinez, Kent Emanuel and Dean Deetz were all brought off the inactive list.

So Davis up and Thome down were offsetting moves for Fresno.

Ahh.  Thanks.

[Nate Colbert]

Winkelman comes within one out of the no-no.

[Nate Colbert]

Drew Ferguson goes to DL because of that back issue.

Comes off the DL as OF Bryan De La Cruz goes back down to TRC.

[Nate Colbert]

Jack Mayfield back up to Fresno, replacing Tyler White there.

Replacing Mayfield, Tyler Wolfe up from BC.

[Nate Colbert]

Ian Steele @IanSteeleKIII 1h ago
OF Kyle Tucker (back) will be activated from the disabled list tomorrow, per Hooks manager Rodney Linares.

[Nate Colbert]

Andrew Walter released being the offsetting move with the Tucker activation. Another long-time pitcher in the system, he was signed by the Astros as an NDFA back in 2011.

[Nate Colbert]

14-gamer for Kyle Tucker (sandwiched around the DL stint) with tonight's RBI double.

[Nate Colbert]

INF Tyler Wolfe (39th rounder, 2016) was released.

INF Colin Walsh, who Luhnow and the Cardinals drafted in the 13th round back in 2010 out of Stanford, was signed by the Astros and assigned to Corpus. He was released last month after playing this season at AA Jackson (Arizona). He does have 38 games of MLB experience (Brewers, 2016). The Astros are his 6th organization (Cardinals, A's, Brewers, Braves and D-Backs previously).

[Nate Colbert]

Nice profile of OF Jason Martin on the Hooks' website.

[Nate Colbert]

Former 25th rounder RHP Kevin Hill (47 Ks vs 14 BBs in 40 IP this year) moved up from BC.

Not counting fill-in situations (which may or may not be the case with Hill), he's the 2nd pick from the 2016 draft class to reach AA.

[Nate Colbert]

• Josh James also suspended.

Has been suspended again.

[VirtualBob]

Has been suspended again.

Is this unusual? I certainly do not remember these odd unspecified suspensions in two+ decades of following the minors closely, but then I never had Nate curating the sources for me either.

[Nate Colbert]

Is this unusual? I certainly do not remember these odd unspecified suspensions in two+ decades of following the minors closely, but then I never had Nate curating the sources for me either.

Just tossing this out there: despite the many problems with milb.com transaction reporting, I wonder if this season they decided to start reporting these suspensions for team rules violations whereas in the past they might not have done so. So it's not that they're occurring more frequently, just that we're more aware of them because they now show up on the transactions pages. So if a guy missed a couple of games in prior years, due to the lack of reporting we might simply have chalked it up to rest or a minor injury rather than a suspension.

[Duman]

Just tossing this out there: despite the many problems with milb.com transaction reporting, I wonder if this season they decided to start reporting these suspensions for team rules violations whereas in the past they might not have done so. So it's not that they're occurring more frequently, just that we're more aware of them because they now show up on the transactions pages. So if a guy missed a couple of games in prior years, due to the lack of reporting we might simply have chalked it up to rest or a minor injury rather than a suspension.

I agree.

[Nate Colbert]

C Trent Woodward, who had been placed on the DL back on July 5, sent to the GCL on rehab assignment (and played in one of the games today at West Palm).

[Nate Colbert]

Riley Ferrell over last 8 outings (since July 6): 10.2 IP, 7 hits allowed, 14 Ks vs 4 BBs.

[Nate Colbert]

With Stubbs up to Fresno, catcher Bernardo Heras up from the GCL to fill in temporarily.

[Nate Colbert]

Jamie Ritchie hit for the cycle tonight (1st Hooks player to ever do that).

[juliogotay]

Jamie Ritchie hit for the cycle tonight (1st Hooks player to ever do that).

I saw his HR on Frisco telecast. It was a real shot to LF. You could hang laundry on it.

[Nate Colbert]

BA today announced their Best Tools in the Texas League (based on a survey of league managers):

• J.D. Davis was voted best power prospect, best defensive 3B and best infield arm
• Rogelio Armenteros was voted best changeup
• Garrett Stubbs was voted best defensive catcher
• Ramon Laureano was voted best outfield arm

Article behind paywall.

[Jacksonian]

BA today announced their Best Tools in the Texas League (based on a survey of league managers):

• J.D. Davis was voted best defensive 3B

That's quite the compliment considering he was mostly a first baseman in college.

[Jacksonian]

Jason Martin with the walk off grand slam last night.

[juliogotay]

BA today announced their Best Tools in the Texas League (based on a survey of league managers):

• J.D. Davis was voted best power prospect, best defensive 3B and best infield arm
• Rogelio Armenteros was voted best changeup
• Garrett Stubbs was voted best defensive catcher
• Ramon Laureano was voted best outfield arm

Article behind paywall.

I was expecting Davis to be a part of a deal this month to bring in some pitching. I wonder if Luhnow doesn't want to deal him or if the other clubs don't want him that desirable. Looks marketable to me but not seeing a future for him in Houston. 

[geezerdonk]

Franklin starting to settle in at AA. Last 3 games - 15 innings, 2 earned rums, 14 strikeouts, 3 walks. Youngest pitcher on the Corpus Christi roster by 2.5 years.

[jwhudson]

I was expecting Davis to be a part of a deal this month to bring in some pitching. I wonder if Luhnow doesn't want to deal him or if the other clubs don't want him that desirable. Looks marketable to me but not seeing a future for him in Houston. 

Maybe Luhnow saved him since Moran went on the DL.

[Nate Colbert]

Riley Ferrell:

First 8 outings for Corpus: 12 IP 16 H 8 BB 7 K.
Last  21 outings for CC:   30.1 IP 32 H 6 BB 34 K.

[juliogotay]

Maybe Luhnow saved him since Moran went on the DL.

or no one wanted him when he is maybe your 10th best prospect. in another organization he may be rated top 5.

[Nate Colbert]

Forrest Whitley promoted to the Hooks. So now we have two 19-year old pitching prospects in AA (and the two youngest pitchers in the Texas League).

[Nate Colbert]

Also being promoted to Corpus is lefty Cionel Perez.

[Nate Colbert]

Within the last couple of days:

• RHP Andrew Thome was moved up to Fresno.
• RHP Yoanys Quiala was suspended.
• RHP Angel Heredia, who had been on the DL all year and last pitched in May 2016, was assigned to the GCL on a rehab assignment.

[jbm]

Whitley's progress is quite impressive. I hope I get a chance to see him live this year.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Whitley's progress is quite impressive. I hope I get a chance to see him live this year.

The Hooks are playing in San Antonio Aug 26,27, & 28. I'll go if Whitley is scheduled to pitch.

[BudGirl]

The Hooks are playing in San Antonio Aug 26,27, & 28. I'll go if Whitley is scheduled to pitch.

Let me know!!  I'll be in SA that weekend.  And do you mean 25, 26 & 27?

[BudGirl]

Let me know!!  I'll be in SA that weekend.  And do you mean 25, 26 & 27?

That is a Saturday, Sunday, Monday series.  I've never seen that before.

[austro]

That is a Saturday, Sunday, Monday series.  I've never seen that before.

They're not uncommon in these minor league schedules. Don't know why.

[juliogotay]

Forrest Whitley promoted to the Hooks. So now we have two 19-year old pitching prospects in AA (and the two youngest pitchers in the Texas League).

Luhnow saying yesterday that Whitley is the fastest moving HS pitcher he has had incl. StLouis.

[BlownRanger]

Luhnow saying yesterday that Whitley is the fastest moving HS pitcher he has had incl. StLouis.

As much as I wanted the Astros to move aggressively at the trade deadline, Whitley is the guy I would have most hated to see go.

[Nate Colbert]

Forrest Whitley promoted to the Hooks. So now we have two 19-year old pitching prospects in AA (and the two youngest pitchers in the Texas League).

Only the 5th HS pitcher in the last 20 years to have made it to AA in their first full year (others: Clayton Kershaw, Zack Greinke, Dylan Bundy and Chad Billingsley).

Link

[MusicMan]

Whitley has gone 6 scoreless with 2 H, 0 BB, and 11 K.


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[austro]

Whitley has gone 6 scoreless with 2 H, 0 BB, and 11 K.

Is this his first AA start?

[Jacksonian]

Is this his first AA start?

Yes

[juliogotay]

Yes

If I am Detroit I don't even talk trade with Luhnow without Whitley and Tucker.

[jbm]

If I am Detroit I don't even talk trade with Luhnow without Whitley and Tucker.

Luhnow is no fool. 

Again, this guy's rise is phenomenal.  Kudos to all those involved in his selection as lots of other teams passed on him and probably deeply regret it. 

[Jacksonian]

If I am Detroit I don't even talk trade with Luhnow without Whitley and Tucker.

If that were the case you would have VERY short conversations with Luhnow.

[juliogotay]

If that were the case you would have VERY short conversations with Luhnow.

More on Whitley. An unnamed "reliable" baseball exec described Whitley as the best pitching prospect anywhere per Gammons tweet.

[BudGirl]

If I am Detroit I don't even talk trade with Luhnow without Whitley and Tucker.

Just because everyone is going to ask for it doesn't mean you gotta give it to them. 

[Jacksonian]

More on Whitley. An unnamed "reliable" baseball exec described Whitley as the best pitching prospect anywhere per Gammons tweet.

On his debut last night.

[juliogotay]

Just because everyone is going to ask for it doesn't mean you gotta give it to them.

Of course. If it is true that Luhnow has as many as six "untouchables" on his prospect list then a guy like Verlander is not likely.

[MusicMan]

Of course. If it is true that Luhnow has as many as six "untouchables" on his prospect list then a guy like Verlander is not likely.

This is all a big mix up. Luhnow has watched "The Untouchables" six times. It's his favorite movie.


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[juliogotay]

This is all a big mix up. Luhnow has watched "The Untouchables" six times. It's his favorite movie.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

I heard Luhnow's favorite flick was Back To The Future.

[juliogotay]

did you know Franklin Perez is a couple of months younger than Whitley? 

[Jacksonian]

did you know Franklin Perez is a couple of months younger than Whitley?

And you can see why Luhnow is so high on 2/5 of his future starting pitching staff.

[MusicMan]

And you can see why Luhnow is so high on 2/5 of his future starting pitching staff.

Not to mention Armentieros.


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[juliogotay]

Not to mention Armentieros.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I was thinking about who the six (or maybe 7) Untouchables are. Tucker and Martes are givens. I would have to think Whitley and F. Perez
and Alvarez is one based on Luhnow's comments. That's five and I'm going with Fisher for #6.

[austro]

I was thinking about who the six (or maybe 7) Untouchables are. Tucker and Martes are givens. I would have to think Whitley and F. Perez
and Alvarez is one based on Luhnow's comments. That's five and I'm going with Fisher for #6.

Just how special is Tucker? I've never seen him play. His numbers are decent but not spectacular, but he's always been young for the leagues he's been in. At 6'4" and 190 lbs, I imagine they expect him to fill out some and grow into power. Who does he get compared to?

[Jacksonian]

Just how special is Tucker? I've never seen him play. His numbers are decent but not spectacular, but he's always been young for the leagues he's been in. At 6'4" and 190 lbs, I imagine they expect him to fill out some and grow into power. Who does he get compared to?

Think about this.  He's in AA.  Had he gone to college he would have just finished his sophomore year.  He would be drafted next June and likely started at short season A ball.  Next season I expect him to finish the year at AAA.  Yes he's special.

[juliogotay]

Just how special is Tucker? I've never seen him play. His numbers are decent but not spectacular, but he's always been young for the leagues he's been in. At 6'4" and 190 lbs, I imagine they expect him to fill out some and grow into power. Who does he get compared to?

Comparison? Ted Williams.
Ok, a bit hyperbolic but tons of scouts love his swing and the Astros love his make-up. He has hit everywhere but hit a wall at CC in which everyone believes he will break through in time. He is playing a lot of CF but I suspect his ML future is in RF. He has a lot of room to fill out on that frame. If he gains 20 lbs he is built like Cody Bellinger. Tucker has swiped 70 bags in his MiL career.

[Lefty]

I was thinking about who the six (or maybe 7) Untouchables are. Tucker and Martes are givens. I would have to think Whitley and F. Perez
and Alvarez is one based on Luhnow's comments. That's five and I'm going with Fisher for #6.

I have no idea about his arm or his glove, but he has a sweet, sweet swing.

Being negative and all, I see him as Springer's replacement when he leaves in FA.

[Jacksonian]

I have no idea about his arm or his glove, but he has a sweet, sweet swing.

Being negative and all, I see him as Springer's replacement when he leaves in FA.

Tucker will be ready long before then.  My wild ass prediction is that Fisher will be dealt after next season to make room for Tucker.

[Jacksonian]

Assuming there's no rain Whitley will start game 1 this afternoon of a double header today.

[Jacksonian]

Assuming there's no rain Whitley will start game 1 this afternoon of a double header today.

Cancelled

[jbm]

Expected this.  People (most likely including the Hooks and the opponent) need to prepare and/or make the trip inland.