Author Topic: Lancaster - 2011 (Read 34753 times)

OregonStrosFan · « **on:** April 06, 2011, 11:59:40 am »

Your one stop shop for all talk of the 2011 Lancaster JetHawks (High-A).

Jacksonian · « **Reply #1 on:** April 07, 2011, 10:47:49 pm »

Jose Cisnero says screw you Clear Channel Stadium. 5IP, 2H, 1BB, 9K, 0R.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #2 on:** April 07, 2011, 11:28:40 pm »

Quote from: Jacksonian on April 07, 2011, 10:47:49 pm

Jose Cisnero says screw you Clear Channel Stadium. 5IP, 2H, 1BB, 9K, 0R.

Kids always been able to strike folks out, though it dipped from 10+ to 8.5 in Lexington. Walks are another story. If he can drop the walks, could become a pitcher after all! 9K / 1BB in the opener are certainly a 'hopeful' sign... What say you Appy?

Cisnero career stats: LINK

2008 (DSL) - 0 W, 3 L, 2 SV, 10 G, 6 GS, 29.0 IP, 3.10 ERA, 1.000 WHIP,
2008 (cont) - 28 H, 0 HR, 11 BB, 34 SO, 5.6 H/9, 0.0 HR/9, 3.4 BB/9, 10.6 SO/9, 3.09 SO/BB

2009 (APPY) - 4 W, 2 L, 0 SV, 13 G, 13 GS, 55.2 IP, 3.56 ERA, 1.114 WHIP,
2009 (cont) - 32 H, 5 HR, 30 BB, 64 SO, 5.2 H/9, 0.8 HR/9, 4.9 BB/9, 10.3 SO/9, 2.13 SO/BB

2010 (LEX) - 8 W, 6 L, 0 SV, 26 G, 26 GS, 133.0 IP, 3.65 ERA, 1.286 WHIP,
2010 (cont) - 106 H, 11 HR, 65 BB, 126 SO, 7.2 H/9, 0.7 HR/9, 4.4 BB/9, 8.5 SO/9, 1.94 SO/BB

MusicMan · « **Reply #3 on:** April 12, 2011, 04:05:45 pm »

BP's Kevin Goldstein on Altuve:

Quote

Jose Altuve, 2B, Astros (High-A Lancaster): 3-for-4, HR (1), 2 R, RBI, SB

I don't think it's a secret how much I like this guy. Listed at 5-foot-5 and 148 pounds, Altuve hit .308/.364/.445 at Low-A last year while hitting 11 home runs, and then added four more shot in the Cal League over the final month of the season. Scouts adore him, are amazed by what he can do with his size, and yet have to question his future because of it. By going 10-for-19 with four extra base hits in his first five game for Lancaster, the questions keep on coming, which is all he can do for now in a ballpark that generates highly inflated numbers. We won't know what we have here until he reaches Double-A, so far now, all he can do is stay on the radar.

Goldstein was then summoned to the BP offices and given a Code Red for saying something positive about the Astros.

Ron Brand · « **Reply #4 on:** April 12, 2011, 04:11:23 pm »

I guess you have to be a dwarf before BP likes you as an Astro.

MusicMan · « **Reply #5 on:** April 12, 2011, 04:15:02 pm »

Quote from: Ron Brand on April 12, 2011, 04:11:23 pm

I guess you have to be a dwarf before BP likes you as an Astro.

Start calling Pence... Dopey.

Ron Brand · « **Reply #6 on:** April 12, 2011, 04:23:02 pm »

BP did like how the Astros always took shorter pitchers...

austro · « **Reply #7 on:** April 12, 2011, 04:35:54 pm »

Quote from: MusicMan on April 12, 2011, 04:15:02 pm

Start calling Pence... Dopey.

He sure as hell isn't Sleepy.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #8 on:** April 12, 2011, 10:47:43 pm »

RHP Jose Cisnero with 20 Ks (to 3 BB) thru his first 10 innings (2 starts) at The Hangar. That's one way to cancel out park effects...

jbm · « **Reply #9 on:** April 12, 2011, 10:54:53 pm »

Wow. Small sample, but still.

moriartp · « **Reply #10 on:** April 13, 2011, 01:24:46 pm »

That's a loud start to the season. Haven't heard much about him to this point in his career, but he's 6'3", just turned 22, and he's always had decent numbers. Anyone know anything about his repertoire? Velocity?

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #11 on:** April 13, 2011, 01:45:06 pm »

Quote from: moriartp on April 13, 2011, 01:24:46 pm

That's a loud start to the season. Haven't heard much about him to this point in his career, but he's 6'3", just turned 22, and he's always had decent numbers. Anyone know anything about his repertoire? Velocity?

David Coleman at The Crawfish Boxes did a lengthy write-up on Jose Cisnero last season. LINK

jbm · « **Reply #12 on:** April 13, 2011, 04:39:49 pm »

I saw one game on video last year. He was a big guy, not overweight but I could see that being an issue if he didn't tend to it. It's hard to tell much from those Lexington videos, but my recollection was that he had more polish than other pitchers I had seen at that level. Polish in both his delivery and control.

He wasn't overpowering batters with his fastball, but he could get by with it. He had what I would call a power curve, pretty close to 12 to 6. Looked to have sharp break. However, I'm assuming he has added something from the one outing I saw. Be curious to hear some firsthand observations.

Duder · « **Reply #13 on:** April 14, 2011, 10:32:58 pm »

Quote from: moriartp on April 13, 2011, 01:24:46 pm

That's a loud start to the season. Haven't heard much about him to this point in his career, but he's 6'3", just turned 22, and he's always had decent numbers. Anyone know anything about his repertoire? Velocity?

John Sickels on Cisnero's arsenal from a prospect chat today. LINK

The only report I have on him is from last year, which put him at 88-91 with a curveball and changeup. But that is an old report, and l have to tap some sources and try to find out more about him, he’s very interesting.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #14 on:** April 18, 2011, 11:31:34 am »

After twice through the order, here is how things stand in Lancaster.
Record: 5-5

Rotation:
Cisnero: 1-0 2.70 20K/4BB 0.90 WHIP <- WOW
Robinson: 0-1 4.09 8K/3BB 1.27 WHIP
Donovan: 0-1 7.88 4K/7BB 2.50 WHIP
Buchanan: 1-1 1.20 10K/1BB 0.80 WHIP <- WOW
Doran: 0-0 5.23 2K/3BB 1.65 WHIP

Notable: Yes, 20 K – not a bad start. Buchanan’s numbers would be pretty impressive, too, were it not for the comparison.

Bullpen:
Clark is picking up where he left off last year, earning 3 saves already to go with a win and a 1.09 WHIP. Musick (8.2IP 11K/1BB 1.27 WHIP) and Grimmett (7.2IP 8K/3BB 1.17 WHIP) have gotten the most work, but the rest of the load is spread pretty evenly among Alvino, Pitkin, Ness & Trinidad, each of which has had at least one ugly outing.

Behind the plate:
Garcia is getting most of the work (7 starts) behind the plate, while Heath is getting his swings as DH (3 starts at C and 4 at DH). Both are struggling with the Mendoza line. Neither is holding baserunners too tightly at this point either (9/12 successful against Garcia and 4/5 against Heath).

Infield:
The infield is pretty set, with Altuve (2B .378/.455/.622), Villar (SS .342/.372/.553 with 7SB) and Meyer (3B .243/.317/.297) starting all 10 games and Hinze (1B .222/.364/.361) starting 8 (plus 2 more at DH). Castro started the other two games at 1B along with 2 starts at DH and Arrendell has mostly been riding the pine. Of special note, Meyer does appear to have found his glove, with no errors through the first 10. (Of course, he spoiled that streak last night in game 11.)

Outfield:
Goebbert (.219/.325/.406), Wates (.231/.302/.359) & Austin (.341/.438/.512) are getting most of the starts, but not necessarily in the same positions. LF: Goebbert 5, Wates 4, Austin 1; CF Austin 8, Wates 2; RF Goebbert 4, Wates 3, Austin 1. Hogue has 2 starts in RF and is hitless in 6 AB.

GreatBagwellsBeard · « **Reply #15 on:** April 18, 2011, 11:44:57 am »

Thanks, Bob!

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #16 on:** April 18, 2011, 12:39:33 pm »

Really enjoyed the breakdowns Bob, thanks!

BTW, Cisnero hit a bit of a snag last night, but his numbers prior to (especially the numbers related to command) have been crazy-good!

VirtualBob · « **Reply #17 on:** April 18, 2011, 02:21:09 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on April 18, 2011, 12:39:33 pm

Really enjoyed the breakdowns Bob, thanks!

BTW, Cisnero hit a bit of a snag last night, but his numbers prior to (especially the numbers related to command) have been crazy-good!

You're welcome.

And I did see last night's "snag", but had already decided to write up an even 10 games.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #18 on:** April 20, 2011, 01:36:51 pm »

Misc stats:

2009 13th rd pick Jacob Goebbert has hit home runs in 4 straight games (all away games) and in 5 of his last 8 games for the JetHawks, and has tied his career long hit streak of 9 games.

Not to be outdone... Kody Hinze has hit home runs in 4 of his last 10 at bats for the JetHawks (again, all away games) and is 10-20 over his last 5 games with 2 2B, 4 HR and 11 RBI.

mrpink · « **Reply #19 on:** April 26, 2011, 09:55:37 pm »

Goldstein continues his love of Altuve with another mention...

Quote

Jose Altuve, 2B, Astros (High-A Lancaster): 3-for-4, 2B, 3B, 2 RBI, BB, SB. 11-for-15 in his last four games and a crazy .451/.506/.662 overall in 18 games. This isn't all Lancaster, as he's batting .371 on the road.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #20 on:** April 27, 2011, 11:19:13 am »

John Sickles with his $0.02 on Altuve: LINK

Houston Astros second base prospect Jose Altuve is one of the more unique players in baseball. He's just 5-5, 150 pounds. He's a good athlete and strong for his size, but scouts are understandably cautious about him, despite a strong track record of hitting (including .308/.364/.445 last year in Low-A). He's at High-A Lancaster this year, hitting a stunning .451/.506/.662 in 18 games, with a 9/8 BB/K in 81 PA and 11 steals in 13 attempts. Now, Lancaster is a great place to hit, and indeed he's at .528/.571/.750 in 10 contests there this year, but he's also hitting .371/.436/.571 on the road. He's a good second baseman, is just 21 years old, and should reach Double-A later this year. We'll track him closely.

jbm · « **Reply #21 on:** April 28, 2011, 07:49:20 am »

Austin was 0 for 5 with 5 Ks last night. Not sure what the term for that is.

Ebby Calvin · « **Reply #22 on:** April 28, 2011, 08:10:49 am »

Quote from: jbm on April 28, 2011, 07:49:20 am

Austin was 0 for 5 with 5 Ks last night. Not sure what the term for that is.

I think the technical term is "shitburger."

Matt · « **Reply #23 on:** April 28, 2011, 03:00:53 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on April 27, 2011, 11:19:13 am

John Sickles with his $0.02 on Altuve: LINK

Houston Astros second base prospect Jose Altuve is one of the more unique players in baseball. He's just 5-5, 150 pounds. He's a good athlete and strong for his size, but scouts are understandably cautious about him, despite a strong track record of hitting (including .308/.364/.445 last year in Low-A). He's at High-A Lancaster this year, hitting a stunning .451/.506/.662 in 18 games, with a 9/8 BB/K in 81 PA and 11 steals in 13 attempts. Now, Lancaster is a great place to hit, and indeed he's at .528/.571/.750 in 10 contests there this year, but he's also hitting .371/.436/.571 on the road. He's a good second baseman, is just 21 years old, and should reach Double-A later this year. We'll track him closely.

Altuve is fun to follow.

Hornstros · « **Reply #24 on:** April 28, 2011, 03:49:25 pm »

Quote from: jbm on April 28, 2011, 07:49:20 am

Austin was 0 for 5 with 5 Ks last night. Not sure what the term for that is.

Platinum sombrero

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #25 on:** April 28, 2011, 10:52:26 pm »

Cisnero gets 3Ks in B1, and then proceeds to give up 7 runs on 3 hits, 3 walks, and a sac bunt in B2 before he is pulled. Line: 1.0 IP, 3 H, 7 R, 7 ER, 3 BB, 3 SO. BOX

VirtualBob · « **Reply #26 on:** April 29, 2011, 06:31:44 am »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on April 28, 2011, 10:52:26 pm

Cisnero gets 3Ks in B1, and then proceeds to give up 7 runs on 3 hits, 3 walks, and a sac bunt in B2 before he is pulled. Line: 1.0 IP, 3 H, 7 R, 7 ER, 3 BB, 3 SO. BOX

His BABIP against must be something to see. Do the fielders just fall asleep on him?

ETA Details Below
OK ... I looked it up. He has allowed 18 hits with a BAA of .265, so that gives him 68 AB against. 29 K's gives him 39 balls in play, so that gives him a .461 BABIP against ... actually lower than I expected, but still pretty amazing.

MusicMan · « **Reply #27 on:** April 29, 2011, 12:30:30 pm »

Goldstein's mancrush grows:

Quote

Jose Altuve, 2B, Astros (High-A Lancaster): 3-for-4, 2B, CS. 16-for-28 (.571) during seven-game hitting streak and .440/.495/.631 overall; if you don't like this guy, seek immediate professional help.

Duman · « **Reply #28 on:** April 29, 2011, 03:10:11 pm »

Cabrera told me Altuve getting some BA love as well:

Quote

Astros 2B Jose Altuve will have several big strikes against him—he's a 5-foot-5 second baseman trying to make the big leagues. Only two players 5-foot-5 or shorter have been major league regulars since Jackie Robinson integrated the game in 1947. (They would be Freddie Patek and Albie Pearson.) Considering the tall odds, it's only fair that Altuve's getting a nice boost from playing in the hitter's haven of high Class A Lancaster. He batted .522/.577/.696 (12-for-23) with two doubles, a triple and four steals in five tries this week. He's having a great year, but a .528/.571/.750 line at home isn't hurting .

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #29 on:** April 29, 2011, 11:46:39 pm »

Jay Austin was picked off for the 5th time already this season. Lasky noted, however, that the Jethawks are seeing an extraordinarily large number of pitch-outs, and that these are contributing the the caught stealing numbers.

And on other LAN news... Jose Altuve: 3-4, 1B, 2B, HR, R, RBI, .455

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #30 on:** May 01, 2011, 04:33:09 pm »

Doesn't appear manager Tom Spencer is interested in seeing 'attitude' from the youngsters. Sat Villar out a game after he was ejected for slamming down his helmet (FRI). Just benched Jay Austin (in the middle of a 3-30+ish slump) for not hustling/running out a grounder (per Lasky broadcast) in todays game.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #31 on:** May 01, 2011, 05:52:37 pm »

Jake Buchanan with a 3-hit (3 singles, inc. infield single in B1) shutout on 92 pitches for the JetHawks today. BOX

Buchanan is 3-1 on 5 starts so far this season (1 at home, 4 on the road), and has a 1.45 ERA with the following line: 37.1 IP, 22 H, 8 R, 6 ER, 9 BB, 20 SO.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #32 on:** May 01, 2011, 06:02:33 pm »

Interesting story on SP Robert Donovan from JetHawks broadcast yesterday. Was mainly a fastball/slider pitcher who had problems with the changeup. Was working on pitches a day or two before his 3rd start of the season, something. something, something (I forget), and pitching Coach Travis Driscol showed him a cutter grip. Immediately felt comfortable for Donovan, and he's been throwing it effectively (and a lot) in the 3 games since. Stats LINK

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #33 on:** May 03, 2011, 10:54:53 pm »

Jose Cisnero comes within 1 strikeout of tying the JetHawks franchise record (set by Brandon Webb).

Line: 7.0 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 3 BB, 13 SO, 1 HR. BOX SCORE

42 strikeouts (to 15 walks) over 24.1 IP this season. 6.66 ERA on the season, primarily due to horrid starts on his only 2 away start of the season (4 home starts) on 4/17 (1.1 IP, 5 ER) and 4/28 (1.0 IP, 7ER).

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #34 on:** May 04, 2011, 12:40:24 am »

More on Cisnero's stats: LINK

Pitching lines, home and away:

AWAY: 0-2; 46.29 ERA; 2 GS; 0 CG; 0 SO; 2.1 IP; 7 H; 12 R; 12; ER; 0 HR; 6 BB; 5 SO; 2.00 GO/AO; .467 AVG; and 5.5714 WHIP.

HOME: 1-0; 2.45 ERA; 4 GS; 0 CG; 0 SO; 22.0 IP; 14 H; 6 R; 6 ER; 3 HR; 9 BB; 37 SO; 0.77 GO/AO; .184 AVG; and 1.0434 WHIP.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #35 on:** May 04, 2011, 12:59:54 pm »

Brief MiLB.com story on Cisnero's 13 strikeout performance. LINK

Travis · « **Reply #36 on:** May 04, 2011, 02:43:05 pm »

Any ideas why Cisnero has such a high home/road split, especially given that he plays at Lancaster?

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #37 on:** May 04, 2011, 03:17:21 pm »

Sample size

jbm · « **Reply #38 on:** May 04, 2011, 09:32:20 pm »

Cruz is pitching tonight for Lancaster. Nice that it wasn't a lengthy injury. Curious to see how he handles the cal league.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #39 on:** May 04, 2011, 09:38:05 pm »

Quote from: jbm on May 04, 2011, 09:32:20 pm

Cruz is pitching tonight for Lancaster. Nice that it wasn't a lengthy injury. Curious to see how he handles the cal league.

Starting in Robinson's spot. Anybody have a line on why?

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #40 on:** May 04, 2011, 10:03:04 pm »

2.2IP 7ER

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #41 on:** May 06, 2011, 01:43:41 pm »

So... LAN took a 10-1 lead into the 3rd inning last night and ended up losing 17-11... BOX SCORE

That aside, Hinze hit another HR and continues to lead the CAL with 9 bombs. Again, small sample size, but look at the home/away splits. Surprising. More surprising still (to me anyway) is that he is 2nd in the league in walks (22).

Wates had a good night as well, going 4-5 with 2 R, 2 2B, RBI and is now hitting .291.

Altuve went 0-5, and is now only hitting .407...

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #42 on:** May 06, 2011, 01:47:33 pm »

BTW, what are the thoughts on Hinze? Started off on fire last year, but went very cold as the season progressed. Did he run out of steam, or did the league just figure him out, or what? Thoughts?

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #43 on:** May 12, 2011, 09:54:22 pm »

After 8 ABs in Corpus, Jose Carlos Thompson started 2B in Lancaster tonight. 1st High-A at bat was a 2-run HR!

Duder · « **Reply #44 on:** May 12, 2011, 10:17:23 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on May 12, 2011, 09:54:22 pm

After 8 ABs in Corpus, Jose Carlos Thompson started 2B in Lancaster tonight. 1st High-A at bat was a 2-run HR!

Yordany was assigned to Lancaster today as well.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #45 on:** May 13, 2011, 02:04:55 am »

Quote from: Duder on May 12, 2011, 10:17:23 pm

Yordany was assigned to Lancaster today as well.

I wonder who got promoted. Carpenter moved from CC to OKC to replace Escalona, so there must have been moves from top to bottom.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #46 on:** May 14, 2011, 06:26:59 pm »

Thompson started at SS and went 2-5, with 3 R last night.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #47 on:** May 16, 2011, 02:03:40 am »

For the "What have you done for me lately" file, I have been looking at May performances. Here are a few things that jump out for the first half of the month:

I gotta start with Jake Buchanan and his CG shutout on May 1. After 3 May starts he has now raised his ERA to 2.01 for the season. I guess he needs to go back to Tri-City? But seriously ... this is shaping up to be a great year for someone who was not really on many radar screens before the season.

Kirk Clark has suddenly become hittable (6ER on 9H in 5 1/3 IP over 5 May appearances), and Colton Pitkin has stepped up to take his spot anchoring the pen. Pitkin has not allowed an ER in 6 appearances (7 1/3 IP) and sports a 0.682 May WHIP.

On offense, Grant Hogue seems to be doing an adequate job as a regular replacing the promoted Jacob Goebbert. Hogue is batting .444/.568/.556 playing mostly RF.

Jose Altuve has cooled off some, his May line of .255/.304/.308 has lowered his season numbers to "only" .368/.421/.528. He also has 4 3B and 16 SB on the season, but is only 4 for 8 in the latter category in May. Maybe speed does sometimes have a bad day?

Jonathan Meyer has apparently learned his way around the bag at 3B. After a horrendous season with the glove last year, he has only 3 errors in 33 games this year. With 3 May HR, he is also beginning to show some power. (.255/.296/.510 in May; .248/.307/.380 for the season).

Jonathan Villar is already 11 of 12 in the SB department in May, and his 11 May BB help to compensate for 16 K in 42 AB. His 4 errors in 13 May games show he is continuing to struggle a little in the field, and there continue to be rumors of attitude. Still, he is only 20 and seems to be developing well.

Ben Heath continues to play mostly DH (in spite of a May line of .200/.310/.240) while Rene Garcia is beginning to show some offensive life as the regular catcher (.265/.359/.324 in May). If these guys' numbers are discounted for the launching pad, though, they better both be outstanding receivers.

And lastly, Kody Hinze is struggling in May (.175/.346/.375 2 HR) after a torrid start. His season totals are now .270/.401/.563 with a team-high 10 HR.

Duman · « **Reply #48 on:** May 16, 2011, 03:08:12 pm »

Quote from: VirtualBob on May 16, 2011, 02:03:40 am

Jose Altuve has cooled off some, his May line of .255/.304/.308 has lowered his season numbers to "only" .368/.421/.528. He also has 4 3B and 16 SB on the season, but is only 4 for 8 in the latter category in May. Maybe speed does sometimes have a bad day?

Was listening to the broadcast the other night and they reported that teams were pitching out more on Altuve. His caught stealing that night (Thurs?) was due to a pitch out. Makes me wonder if he is doing something to tip the idea that he is stealing.

chuck · « **Reply #49 on:** May 16, 2011, 06:02:42 pm »

Quote from: AppyAstros on May 16, 2011, 03:08:12 pm

Was listening to the broadcast the other night and they reported that teams were pitching out more on Altuve. His caught stealing that night (Thurs?) was due to a pitch out. Makes me wonder if he is doing something to tip the idea that he is stealing.

Getting on base I think is the tipoff you're looking for.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #50 on:** May 17, 2011, 01:18:19 pm »

Ben's Biz Blog hits Lancaster. LINK

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #51 on:** May 17, 2011, 01:27:26 pm »

Thought I'd posted these...but... Ben's Biz video interviews with: Kirk Clark; Jose Altuve; and Koby Hinze.

moriartp · « **Reply #52 on:** May 17, 2011, 11:09:51 pm »

Anyone know what's up with Villar? He left the game early on 5/15, didn't play on 5/16, and was pulled early again tonight.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #53 on:** May 18, 2011, 11:56:33 am »

Quote from: moriartp on May 17, 2011, 11:09:51 pm

Anyone know what's up with Villar? He left the game early on 5/15, didn't play on 5/16, and was pulled early again tonight.

Don't know anything substantive, but there were rumors earlier in the year of a need for "attitude adjustment" time on the bench.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #54 on:** May 20, 2011, 12:02:05 am »

Looks Cisnero-Jekyl showed up in LAN this evening. BOX SCORE

Cisnero: 7.0 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 7 SO (5.13 ERA)

Cinsero-Hyde did try to peek out for a sec in T4:

High Desert Top of the 4th
Daniel Carroll hit by pitch.
Nick Franklin out on a sacrifice bunt, pitcher Jose Cisnero to first baseman Kody Hinze. Daniel Carroll to 2nd.
With Vincent Catricala batting, wild pitch by Jose Cisnero, Daniel Carroll to 3rd.
With Vincent Catricala batting, wild pitch by Jose Cisnero, Daniel Carroll scores.
Vincent Catricala strikes out swinging.
Dennis Raben grounds out, pitcher Jose Cisnero to first baseman Kody Hinze.

Other misc. stat lines:

Hinze went 1-3, R, HR, 2 RBI, BB (.289 AVG). The HR was to right, and there was a 30 MPH wind in RF, but still... (FWIW though, you'll notice in the box score that the 30 MPH wind was blowing in from RF...);
Jose Carlos Thomson went 2-4, R, 2B, SO (.450 AVG);
Jose Altuve went 2-4, SO (.386 AVG);
Austin Wates went 2-4, SB (.287 AVG); and
Ben Heath went 2-4, 2B, SO (.250).

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #55 on:** May 20, 2011, 12:04:22 am »

Quote from: moriartp on May 17, 2011, 11:09:51 pm

Anyone know what's up with Villar? He left the game early on 5/15, didn't play on 5/16, and was pulled early again tonight.

From Jeff Lasky (via Farmstros):

Villar left game over the weekend injured, tried to come back a few days later and was limping Thks @JeffLaskydotcom

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #56 on:** May 21, 2011, 02:30:28 pm »

Sickels (Minor League Ball) re: Villar. LINK

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #57 on:** May 22, 2011, 06:19:50 pm »

Another good start from Jake Buchanan for the JetHawks. JetHawks lost 2-1 on a walk-off suicide squeeze. LINK

Buchanan's line: 8.0 IP, 5 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 BB, 5 SO, 0 HR. His 2.49 ERA leads all qualifying Astros MiLB'ers. Bachanan's STATS LINK

Villar: 1-3, 3B, SO, .263 AVG
Altuve: 2-3, R, 3B, BB, .392 AVG
Hinze: 1-3, 2B, RBI, .289 AVG

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #58 on:** May 22, 2011, 06:55:07 pm »

Quote from: VirtualBob on May 16, 2011, 02:03:40 am

Jose Altuve has cooled off some, his May line of .255/.304/.308 has lowered his season numbers to "only" .368/.421/.528. He also has 4 3B and 16 SB on the season, but is only 4 for 8 in the latter category in May. Maybe speed does sometimes have a bad day?

From the 'What a difference a week (9 games) can make' files (and yes, I realize VB wasn't being critical)...

Jose Altuve is 18-36 (.500) over his last 9 games (3 doubles, 2 triples and a home run). After today's game (5/22) his average is now at .392. Jose Altuve STATS LINK

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #59 on:** May 22, 2011, 07:21:34 pm »

Missed this one earlier in the week, but MiLB had a brief profile piece on Austin Wates. LINK

Matt · « **Reply #60 on:** May 23, 2011, 11:29:10 am »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on May 22, 2011, 06:55:07 pm

From the 'What a difference a week (9 games) can make' files (and yes, I realize VB wasn't being critical)...

Jose Altuve is 18-36 (.500) over his last 9 games (3 doubles, 2 triples and a home run). After today's game (5/22) his average is now at .392. Jose Altuve STATS LINK

At what point do they finally promote him?

Jacksonian · « **Reply #61 on:** May 23, 2011, 12:18:57 pm »

Quote from: Matt on May 23, 2011, 11:29:10 am

At what point do they finally promote him?

When Paredes is no longer in Corpus.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #62 on:** May 24, 2011, 01:01:19 am »

Quote from: Jacksonian on May 23, 2011, 12:18:57 pm

When Paredes is no longer in Corpus.

Exactly. And even if they jettison Hall when Kepp comes back, AAA is crowded. Hernandez, Navarro, Vallejo, Inglett & Manzella. Maybe later in the year they could get rid of Inglett or even Navarro, causing a ripple effect (Paredes to AAA, Altuve to AA, Thompson to start in Lan), but that does not look likely in the short term.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #63 on:** May 26, 2011, 01:04:18 am »

And... Rancho Cucamonga drops an 11-spot on Lancaster in T9 to take a 25-5 lead. Unfortunately, the Jethawks could not make up the 20-run deficit in B9, falling 16-runs short... BOX

On the bright side...

Jose Altuve went 3-5, R, 3B (off rehabbing LAD reliever Blake Hawksworth) to bring his average to .398. Altuve is 21-42 over his last 10 games.

Villar (grand slam) and Ben Heath (2-run HR) both went yard for the JetHawks in the loss. Hinze and Wates both went 2-5 and Grant Hogue went 2-4.

Reuben · « **Reply #64 on:** May 26, 2011, 10:16:14 am »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on May 26, 2011, 01:04:18 am

And... Rancho Cucamonga drops an 11-spot on Lancaster in T9 to take a 25-5 lead. Unfortunately, the Jethawks could not make up the 20-run deficit in B9, falling 16-runs short... BOX

On the bright side...

Jose Altuve went 3-5, R, 3B (off rehabbing LAD reliever Blake Hawksworth) to bring his average to .398. Altuve is 21-42 over his last 10 games.

Villar (grand slam) and Ben Heath (2-run HR) both went yard for the JetHawks in the loss. Hinze and Wates both went 2-5 and Grant Hogue went 2-4.

I wonder if the wind was blowing out...

pots · « **Reply #65 on:** May 26, 2011, 11:51:43 am »

Quote from: Jacksonian on May 23, 2011, 12:18:57 pm

When Paredes is no longer in Corpus.

Paredes could move to the left side of the infield while Altuve plays through

VirtualBob · « **Reply #66 on:** May 26, 2011, 12:50:34 pm »

Quote from: pots on May 26, 2011, 11:51:43 am

Paredes could move to the left side of the infield while Altuve plays through

Left side is crowded already. Brandon Wikoff hitting a ton while learning 3B (has been SS/2B in the past) and Sutil doing very well at SS.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #67 on:** May 26, 2011, 12:52:20 pm »

Chris Hicks returns to action last night for Lancaster. 3 ER in 1 IP is not too impressive, but it is good to see him back on the mound. He was beginning to put it all together before the injury.

Also noted that Bryce Lane, who has been hot lately for Lex, got promoted. He had a taste of Lancaster last year; maybe he can hang there this year.

pots · « **Reply #68 on:** May 26, 2011, 01:15:54 pm »

Quote from: VirtualBob on May 26, 2011, 12:50:34 pm

Left side is crowded already. Brandon Wikoff hitting a ton while learning 3B (has been SS/2B in the past) and Sutil doing very well at SS.

Crap, I forgot about Wikoff

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #69 on:** May 26, 2011, 01:16:23 pm »

Quote from: VirtualBob on May 26, 2011, 12:52:20 pm

Chris Hicks returns to action last night for Lancaster. 3 ER in 1 IP is not too impressive, but it is good to see him back on the mound. He was beginning to put it all together before the injury.

Struck out the first batter he faced, but it went downhill from there. The boxscore showed the wind out to CF at 15 mph, but I have to think it had picked late in the game (I was half-listening to the broadcast, so didn't hear one way or another if this was the case). Some ridiculous numbers put up (of course, 15 gazillion walks by the JetHawks staff didn't help matters either...).

Reuben · « **Reply #70 on:** May 26, 2011, 04:47:58 pm »

Quote from: VirtualBob on May 26, 2011, 12:50:34 pm

Left side is crowded already. Brandon Wikoff hitting a ton while learning 3B (has been SS/2B in the past) and Sutil doing very well at SS.

Not saying I have any idea what the Astros will do, but my impression was that Wikoff and Sutil are more roster-filler/placeholder types, and not true prospects, in other words players who wouldn't stand in the way of a promotion/position change by either Paredes or Altuve.

Jacksonian · « **Reply #71 on:** May 26, 2011, 05:10:31 pm »

Paredes is a 2b not a SS or 3b. To move him to the left side is to essentially give up on him. If they thought he could be a SS at the major league level he'd be there now.

Too, he's on the 40 man. No one is playing through him.

Duman · « **Reply #72 on:** May 26, 2011, 09:32:17 pm »

Prediction: At or just before the All Star break, they will release a AAA middle infielder, move Paredes & Altuve up a level, bring Mier up from Lex. And all this will happen just like May 21 worked out.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #73 on:** May 26, 2011, 10:03:35 pm »

Villar HRs for his 2nd game in a row (T1) - this one of the inside-the-park variety. Thompson also hit a HR in T1. And... Jose Altuve singled to right on a line drive in B1, putting his up to .401. LINK

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #74 on:** May 27, 2011, 12:16:05 am »

Jose Altuve went 3-5, 2R for LAN tonight, raising his AVG to .403. 5/25 BOX SCORE

For BA Hot Sheet reporting purposes (i.e. 5/20-5/26) his line is: 13-25, 5 R, 2 3B, 2 RBI, 2 BB, 2 SO, SB, CS, .520 AVG, .571 OBP, .680 SLG, 1.251 OPS.

Kody Hinze went 2-4, R, 2 RBI, BB, SO, raising his average to .305.

In addition to the previously posted HRs from JC Thompson (2-5, 2R, HR, RBI, SO, .349 AVG) and Villar (3-6, 2 R, 2B, HR, RBI, 2 SO (.272 AVG)), Jonathan Meyer also hit a HR (3-5, 2 R, 2B, HR, RBI, SO (.266 AVG)). Meyer and Villar were both a 3B short of the cycle tonight.

Grant Hogue went 4-5, 2 RBI, SO (.326 AVG), and Ben Health had 3 hits, going 3-5, 2 R, 2B (.272 AVG).

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #75 on:** May 27, 2011, 06:01:40 pm »

Quote from: AppyAstros on May 26, 2011, 09:32:17 pm

Prediction: At or just before the All Star break, they will release a AAA middle infielder, move Paredes & Altuve up a level, bring Mier up from Lex. And all this will happen just like May 21 worked out.

One down... (Campbell via Twitter: ...Astros release IF Joe Inglett.)

Reuben · « **Reply #76 on:** May 27, 2011, 07:06:30 pm »

Quote from: AppyAstros on May 26, 2011, 09:32:17 pm

just like May 21 worked out.

I'm drawing a blank here, what happened May 21?

jbm · « **Reply #77 on:** May 27, 2011, 07:30:34 pm »

Quote from: Reuben on May 27, 2011, 07:06:30 pm

I'm drawing a blank here, what happened May 21?

No rapture

moriartp · « **Reply #78 on:** May 27, 2011, 11:53:35 pm »

Altuve 3-4 with a homer and a walk tonight (also one stolen base and one caught stealing). He's up to .415 now. Here's the box.

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #79 on:** May 28, 2011, 08:19:22 am »

Quote from: moriartp on May 27, 2011, 11:53:35 pm

Altuve 3-4 with a homer and a walk tonight (also one stolen base and one caught stealing). He's up to .415 now. Here's the box.

Making sure he creates more runs this week.

chuck · « **Reply #80 on:** May 28, 2011, 10:48:07 am »

Quote from: astrosfan76 on May 28, 2011, 08:19:22 am

Making sure he creates more runs this week.

Let me just take a moment to interject - that is the dumbest motherfucking thing I have read in ages. A dude who's fucking hitting .415 doesn't create enough runs? Are you fucking kidding me? Altuve could bitch-slap that fuck and it would snap his geekneck like a #2 pencil.

austro · « **Reply #81 on:** May 28, 2011, 11:03:53 am »

Quote from: chuck on May 28, 2011, 10:48:07 am

Let me just take a moment to interject - that is the dumbest motherfucking thing I have read in ages. A dude who's fucking hitting .415 doesn't create enough runs? Are you fucking kidding me? Altuve could bitch-slap that fuck and it would snap his geekneck like a #2 pencil.

Come on, chuck: he's an Astros prospect, so he's obviously deficient. They're just trying to be nice about the way they say it.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #82 on:** May 28, 2011, 01:20:29 pm »

Quote from: austro on May 28, 2011, 11:03:53 am

Come on, chuck: he's an Astros prospect, so he's obviously deficient. They're just trying to be nice about the way they say it.

Meh. BA has been 'generally' fair to HOU prospects under the Heck regime, and there are some 'obvious' deficiencies with Altuve - kid is small. That said, his numbers at LAN may be 'stretching the truth' a bit, but the theme remains correct: kid can hit!

I think one of BA's bigger probs with Altuve is the lack of comps and precedent. They'll step out on a limb, but not particularly willing to step 'that' far out...

jbm · « **Reply #83 on:** May 29, 2011, 08:37:29 am »

Why is BA yapping about "runs created." Isn't that a BP type thing?

chuck · « **Reply #84 on:** May 29, 2011, 10:29:13 am »

Quote from: jbm on May 29, 2011, 08:37:29 am

Why is BA yapping about "runs created." Isn't that a BP type thing?

I don't know but Altuve has a sub-0.75 X-ARP ratio and that always concerns me when we're discussing anyone hitting better than .400. Let's face it, it's a danger sign.

chuckd · « **Reply #85 on:** May 29, 2011, 05:26:42 pm »

Chuck Am I the only one who does not know what sub-0.75 X-ARP stands for? Please explain Thank you

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #86 on:** May 29, 2011, 05:32:18 pm »

Quote from: chuckd on May 29, 2011, 05:26:42 pm

Chuck Am I the only one who does not know what sub-0.75 X-ARP stands for? Please explain Thank you

Unless I'm mistaken (which, oddly enough is a possibility), he made it up as to give crap to sabermatricians. If that's not the case, then I haven't a clue...

Matt · « **Reply #87 on:** May 31, 2011, 11:51:52 am »

Quote from: chuck on May 28, 2011, 10:48:07 am

Altuve could bitch-slap that fuck and it would snap his geekneck like a #2 pencil.

Is Altuve the spawn of Angel Sanchez?

pots · « **Reply #88 on:** June 01, 2011, 06:37:52 am »

Altuve 3 for 5, 2B, HR and 5 RBI. Think this counts for runs created?

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #89 on:** June 01, 2011, 09:03:38 am »

I get BA's daily prospect reports in my inbox. Atluve was listed today, with this comment next to his performance

Quote

Yeah it's Lancaster, but .399 is .399

MiLB has his average at .408, but at least they tried.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #90 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:09:23 am »

And Altuve just got promoted to Corpus, per Levine.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #91 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:09:44 am »

Jonathan Villar getting called up too.

roadrunner · « **Reply #92 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:26:05 am »

Interesting. What's happening with Paredes?

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #93 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:28:45 am »

Levine didn't know yet on Paredes, said he would write about it later.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #94 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:31:14 am »

The Hooks have sent 2nd baseman David Flores to Lancaster. Still one move to go.

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #95 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:41:45 am »

Quote from: Navin R Johnson on June 01, 2011, 10:09:23 am

And Altuve just got promoted to Corpus, per Levine.

Trying to get rid of the Lancaster stigma, apparently.

Jacksonian · « **Reply #96 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:43:08 am »

Quote from: Navin R Johnson on June 01, 2011, 10:31:14 am

The Hooks have sent 2nd baseman David Flores to Lancaster. Still one move to go.

They promoted a 3b, Hector Rodriguez, from Greeneville.

pots · « **Reply #97 on:** June 01, 2011, 11:21:09 am »

I imagine Thompson takes a fulltime roll

VirtualBob · « **Reply #98 on:** June 02, 2011, 08:43:05 pm »

May in Review – Lancaster

Rotation

Andrew Robinson got a brief promotion to Corpus and was replaced in the rotation by Luis Cruz. That worked out well. Cruz was 0-1 with a 14.54 ERA and a 2.3 WHIP in 4 starts and 13 IP before being demoted to the Lexington bullpen. He was replaced by Zach Grimmett for the last two times through the rotation. Meanwhile, the rest of the rotation, Cisnero, Donovan, Buchanan and Doran, has been pretty stable.

Buchanan opened the month with a complete game shutout, but is only 1-2 with a 4.15 ERA and a 1.23 WHIP on the month. Doran and Donovan have been “hittable” … combining for a 1-6 May record, an ERA over 8.5 and a WHIP over 1.7. Cisnero was the month’s bright spot, with a 2-2 record, a 3.90 ERA, a 1.27 WHIP and 34K in 32 1/3 IP. He did have 17BB and 5WP, so it is pretty clear where his problems lie.

Bullpen

Kirk Clark continues to excel as a closer with 4 more saves in May (giving him 12 for the year). However, he managed that with a 13.91 ERA ad a 2.27 WHIP. Robinson joined the bullpen on his return from Corpus and went 2-1 with a 3.50 ERA in 6 relief appearances. Michael Ness, Wander Alvino and Colton Pitkin continue to get the bulk of the 7th and 8th inning work, but only Pitkin (2.57 May ERA and 0.93 WHIP) has been consistently effective. Yordany Ramirez (promoted from Lex) and David Berner (demoted from CC) have both struggled, as did Wes Musick before he went on the DL. Jose Trinidad has been on the DL most of the month, and Chris Hicks was recently activated after missing all of 2010 with an injury.

Lineup

Rene Garcia and Ben Heath continue to split time at C, with Heath getting a few extra AB’s at DH. They are both hitting their stride at the plate: Garcia with a .350/.426/.417 May after a .214/.237/.232 April, and Heath with .302/.362/.413 after .214/.237/.232. Some have wondered why Heath is not getting more starts, and the 32 or 35 SB success ratio he has allowed may be part of the answer.

Kody Hinze has been tearing things up at 1B … a very consisten .317/.452/.606 on the year with 13 HR. He also has 44BB to go with 48K in 180AB. Hampered by nagging injuries throughout his career, this 23 year old undrafted free agent may be having a breakout year. He will need to move quickly and continue to have success at higher levels, though, if he is going to make it to the show.

The big news at Lancaster, though, is the Memoral Day Roster Shuffle that sent Altuve and Villar to Corpus where they continue to form the DP combo. Villar did lead the team with 13 errors, and was rumored to have some attitude problems, but he has apparently straightened them out. He also led the team in May with 31K in 91AB, but hit a respectable .275/.400/.440 and was successful in 12 of 15 SB attempts. Altuve, meanwhile, has developed a cult following with his 5’??” frame and .408/.451/.606 batting line at Lancaster. As of the end of May, he led the team in AB, H, 2B, 3B (7!), Avg, Slg, TB and (unfortunately) CS (he was successful in 18 of 27 attempts). Jonathan Meyer has been playing a solid 3B; his offense is adequate and he has cut way down on defensive miscues compared to last year (only 5 errors in 45 games).

The outfield has been rather fluid with Jake Goebbert promoted to CC. Austin Wates has played all three positions about equally, while Jay Austin and Grant Hogue have been the most frequent starters in CF and RF respectively in May. Austin has also seen significant time in LF (as did Jordan Comadena before he was sent back to EST to work with Tri-City pitchers). Offensively, both Hogue (..360/.443/.440) and Wates (.309/.353/.364) are heating up. Austin (.242/.299/.354 in May with only 4 SB) has been falling short of expectations.

Notable reserves include Comdena, Erik Castro (.196/.288/.239 and 14K in 46AB, mostly as DH [sic]), Bryce Lane (hitless in 8 AB since his promotion), Miguel Arrendell (a solid .286/.306/.514 in a utility role in May and hoping to benefit from the roster moves) and Jose Carlos Thompson who has been hitting well (.333/.367/.509) since being demoted from Corpus.

Ron Brand · « **Reply #99 on:** June 02, 2011, 09:12:38 pm »

Thanks a lot for your work on this, VB.

pots · « **Reply #100 on:** June 07, 2011, 09:18:55 am »

Hinze has to be threatening a call up. Yeah sure he's struck out 49 times in 196 at bats. But he's walked 50 times with a 1.111 OPS (1.223 away from home). Numbers say he is being pitched around. No way the 26 going on 27, 3 year repeating, no power bat of James Van Ostrand should be holding up 23 going on 24, power bat of Kody Hinze.

moriartp · « **Reply #101 on:** June 08, 2011, 12:28:45 am »

And the JetHawks drop one 24-4. Gotta get the hell out of that park.

Duder · « **Reply #102 on:** June 08, 2011, 12:37:56 am »

Quote from: moriartp on June 08, 2011, 12:28:45 am

And the JetHawks drop one 24-4. Gotta get the hell out of that park.

Miguel Arrendell managed to commit three errors at short. I wonder why the organization hasn't moved Orloff up to Lancaster, assuming they don't intend to promote Mier in the near future.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #103 on:** June 08, 2011, 12:41:57 am »

Quote from: Duder on June 08, 2011, 12:37:56 am

I wonder why the organization hasn't moved Orloff up to Lancaster, assuming they don't intend to promote Mier in the near future

My question as well. Would like to see Orloff get a real shot at a chance...

Duder · « **Reply #104 on:** June 09, 2011, 10:12:22 pm »

Jake Buchanan and Kody Hinze named California League All-Stars. Rosters

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #105 on:** June 14, 2011, 01:04:35 am »

Kody Hinze with 2 3-run blasts tonight for the Jethawks (HRs 16 and 17). Line: 4-7, 2R, 2 HR, 7 RBI, SO, .345 AVG. Box Score (and in case you were wondering, it was an away game with winds 8 mph right to left.

Lest this be written off as a just a product of hitting at the Hangar, you might think again... 10 of his 17 HRs were hit in an away park (and has a >.050 AVG / >.130 SLG the road).

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #106 on:** June 14, 2011, 02:29:03 pm »

MiLB.com story on Hinze's night: LINK

Reuben · « **Reply #107 on:** June 14, 2011, 02:32:12 pm »

You'd have to think they'd see what he can do in AA pretty soon now, right? Why not?

pots · « **Reply #108 on:** June 17, 2011, 08:10:14 am »

Did we break Hinze? Hasn't played the last 2 games...

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #109 on:** June 17, 2011, 10:10:34 pm »

Quote from: pots on June 17, 2011, 08:10:14 am

Did we break Hinze? Hasn't played the last 2 games...

Not sure what the deal was, but he's back in the lineup tonight and is 1-1, 2 R, HR, 2 RBI, BB so far this evening and wouldn't appear to be too broke... BOX SCORE

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #110 on:** June 18, 2011, 12:11:35 am »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on June 17, 2011, 10:10:34 pm

Not sure what the deal was, but he's back in the lineup tonight and is 1-1, 2 R, HR, 2 RBI, BB so far this evening and wouldn't appear to be too broke... BOX SCORE

Make that 2-4, 3 R, 2 HR, 3 RBI, SO, BB, on the night (.344 AVG).

pots · « **Reply #111 on:** June 18, 2011, 02:55:55 am »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on June 18, 2011, 12:11:35 am

Make that 2-4, 3 R, 2 HR, 3 RBI, SO, BB, on the night (.344 AVG).

Guess not. Geesh, what does a fella need to do to get promoted...

Duder · « **Reply #112 on:** June 18, 2011, 11:29:57 am »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on June 18, 2011, 12:11:35 am

Make that 2-4, 3 R, 2 HR, 3 RBI, SO, BB, on the night (.344 AVG).

His .479 OBP is quite impressive as well.

moriartp · « **Reply #113 on:** June 18, 2011, 11:39:21 am »

Quote from: Duder on June 18, 2011, 11:29:57 am

His .479 OBP is quite impressive as well.

His OBP and walk total both rank second in all of professional baseball behind only Jose Bautista.

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #114 on:** June 18, 2011, 12:50:49 pm »

Quote from: moriartp on June 18, 2011, 11:39:21 am

His OBP and walk total both rank second in all of professional baseball behind only Jose Bautista.

He only draws walks because he plays half of his games in Lancaster.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #115 on:** June 18, 2011, 01:17:12 pm »

Quote from: astrosfan76 on June 18, 2011, 12:50:49 pm

He only draws walks because he plays half of his games in Lancaster.

I guess I'm gonna change my stance on the whole SFN thingie, as I'm starting to recognize its place (as in this response...). SFN!

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #116 on:** June 18, 2011, 11:35:15 pm »

LAN with 12 runs thru 6 innings so far tonight. BOX SCORE

Oddly enough, none of the RBIs are from Hinze...

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #117 on:** June 22, 2011, 06:48:59 pm »

And Mier's goin' back to Cali, to Cali, to Cali...

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #118 on:** June 29, 2011, 01:04:04 am »

Looks like Hinze finally had enough time to recoup from his HR Derby 'W'.

He went 3-5, R, HR (20), 6 RBI (65) tonight, raising his AVG back to .329. BOX SCORE

Jio went 2-4, 2R, RBI, BB, .269 and Wates went 1-4, RBI, BB, SO, bringing his AVG back under .300 (.299).

ETA: If you don't like my account, you can read MiLBs... LINK

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #119 on:** June 29, 2011, 10:40:31 pm »

It is the 4th inning at Lancaster..... Lan is losing to High Desert 13-6. HD scored 13 runs in the 2nd inning.....

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #120 on:** June 29, 2011, 10:42:54 pm »

Colton Pitkin had a respectable 3.63 ERA coming into tonight, 2/3 inning and 7 runs later, he now sports a 5.35 ERA

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #121 on:** June 30, 2011, 07:26:19 am »

Lancaster ends up falling 14-9.

Kody Hinze was walked in his first 3 plate appearance and scores 2 runs. 4th plate appearance, he strikes out, 5th plate appearance, homerun to CF, #21. He is now sporting a .470 OB% and 1.108 OPS.

Jio got another pair of hits and is hitting .290, but has K'd 10 times in 31 at bats.

jbm · « **Reply #122 on:** June 30, 2011, 08:24:30 am »

Other than a 13 run inning, the Lancaster hurlers had quite a night.

I need to make it out there one day, as it is really hard for me to grasp what goes on there. In general, the jump from A to high A doesn't seem that significant, but the jump from Lexington to Lancaster for a pitcher seems like a giant gulf. There has to be a large mental component to pitcher flailings there; it can't all be the park.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #123 on:** June 30, 2011, 08:47:52 am »

looking at the boxscore the wind was 25mph R to L. I wonder if it died down later in the game?

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #124 on:** June 30, 2011, 03:19:15 pm »

Quote from: jbm on June 30, 2011, 08:24:30 am

Other than a 13 run inning, the Lancaster hurlers had quite a night.

Hinze with another HR (21) as well. Box Score

Hinze's line: 1-2, 3 R, HR, 3 BB, SO. .331 AVG / .470 OBP / .638 SLG / 1.108 OPS.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #125 on:** July 02, 2011, 10:21:09 pm »

Stop me if you've heard this before... Hinze with another HR. (22) Box Score

Hinze's line on the evening: 2-4, R, 2B, HR, RBI, SO, .335 AVG

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #126 on:** July 03, 2011, 11:04:08 am »

I wonder what more he needs to do to get promoted, it isn't like there is anyone at Corpus blocking him.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #127 on:** July 04, 2011, 12:08:27 am »

I guess that was enough. Hinze just got moved to Corpus.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #128 on:** July 04, 2011, 12:22:30 am »

Quote from: Navin R Johnson on July 04, 2011, 12:08:27 am

I guess that was enough. Hinze just got moved to Corpus.

Confirmed by Austin Wates (via Twitter):

My boy Kody Hinze got the call up to AA! Vote him player of the month #dudeisabeast

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #129 on:** July 04, 2011, 12:28:41 am »

My post wasn't confirmation enough?

Jacksonian · « **Reply #130 on:** July 04, 2011, 09:19:57 pm »

When is a call up not a call up? Hinze is still in Lancaster, start at 1b tonight.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #131 on:** July 04, 2011, 10:47:59 pm »

Quote from: Jacksonian on July 04, 2011, 09:19:57 pm

When is a call up not a call up? Hinze is still in Lancaster, start at 1b tonight.

Will play with LAN tomorrow night as well, then off to Corpus.

Duman · « **Reply #132 on:** July 05, 2011, 12:36:57 pm »

This effectively guts the Lancaster offense. I see no one in Lex who is ready to make the jump to fill Hinze's cleats.

Hornstros · « **Reply #133 on:** July 05, 2011, 01:29:25 pm »

Quote from: AppyAstros on July 05, 2011, 12:36:57 pm

This effectively guts the Lancaster offense

Well maybe Lancaster pulls a Round Rock and demands contracting with a different affiliate that will supply 'better prospects'. We can only hope as you can't get a good read on anyone playing there. Except pitchers with good numbers

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #134 on:** July 05, 2011, 03:51:09 pm »

Quote from: Hornstros on July 05, 2011, 01:29:25 pm

Well maybe Lancaster pulls a Round Rock and demands contracting with a different affiliate that will supply 'better prospects'. We can only hope as you can't get a good read on anyone playing there. Except pitchers with good numbers

I like the Lancaster group. Nice stadium, good fan involvement, somewhat responsive on Twitter, informative team website, etc. That said, from a player development standpoint the completion of the 2012 season can't get here fast enough IMO. Not sure that there is a worse High A place for developing prospects than in Lancaster (well, I imagine there have to be a couple, but I've no idea which ones they are).

S.P. Rodriguez · « **Reply #135 on:** July 05, 2011, 04:08:11 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on July 05, 2011, 03:51:09 pm

I like the Lancaster group. Nice stadium, good fan involvement, somewhat responsive on Twitter, informative team website, etc. That said, from a player development standpoint the completion of the 2012 season can't get here fast enough IMO. Not sure that there is a worse High A place for developing prospects than in Lancaster (well, I imagine there have to be a couple, but I've no idea which ones they are).

I don't know. The pre-humidor Rockies might have found it a legitimate place to evaluate pitching talent.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #136 on:** July 07, 2011, 10:24:56 pm »

Jake Buchanan went 6.1 perfect tonight for the Jethawks. Game was in LAN with wind 10 mph out to RF. Took him 50 pitches to get to 6.1 IP. Perfecto gone when Buchanan walked a batter (after his first 3-ball count on the night), and then gave up a single to rehabbing Rod Barajas.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #137 on:** July 15, 2011, 12:37:56 pm »

3B David Flores had a pretty good night at the plate last night...

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #138 on:** July 19, 2011, 02:49:01 pm »

Nice Q&A between Astros County and Jio Mier. LINK

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #139 on:** July 22, 2011, 08:14:30 am »

JetHawks take advantage of a 24MPH gust to CF, beating High Desert 14-2. Cisnero had his second straight 11K outing and has 31 in his last 19 innings. Almost everyone chipped in with Thompson leading the way, going 4-5 with a double and 4 RBI. Over his last 10 games, Thompson is hitting .429 with 2 HR, 8 RBI, 5 walks against 4 K's, 2 SB, and 13 Runs.

Duman · « **Reply #140 on:** July 22, 2011, 09:00:19 am »

Quote from: astrosfan76 on July 22, 2011, 08:14:30 am

JetHawks take advantage of a 24MPH gust to CF, beating High Desert 14-2. Cisnero had his second straight 11K outing and has 31 in his last 19 innings. Almost everyone chipped in with Thompson leading the way, going 4-5 with a double and 4 RBI. Over his last 10 games, Thompson is hitting .429 with 2 HR, 8 RBI, 5 walks against 4 K's, 2 SB, and 13 Runs.

So I guess High Desert was using a different wind. Makes Cisnero's outing even more impressive. Maybe it was all his K's that made the wind for the JetHawks bats.

Jacksonian · « **Reply #141 on:** July 22, 2011, 09:06:40 am »

Quote from: AppyAstros on July 22, 2011, 09:00:19 am

So I guess High Desert was using a different wind. Makes Cisnero's outing even more impressive. Maybe it was all his K's that made the wind for the JetHawks bats.

3 of Cisnero's last 4 starts have been very good.

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #142 on:** July 22, 2011, 09:17:05 am »

Quote from: AppyAstros on July 22, 2011, 09:00:19 am

So I guess High Desert was using a different wind. Makes Cisnero's outing even more impressive. Maybe it was all his K's that made the wind for the JetHawks bats.

Keeping the other team from hitting the ball is definitely one way to counteract the wind's effects.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #143 on:** July 22, 2011, 11:23:07 am »

I asked Comendena (via Twitter a week or so ago) what the deal was with 'Jekyl and Hyde' Cisnero, and here was his response:

I think sometimes he tries to be too fine and K everyone up instead of really pounding the strike zone. tries to make put away pitches 0-0 instead of pounding the zone and letting his stuff take care of it. He's nasty when he's on! he's got a great fastball just needs to keep it in the zone more.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #144 on:** July 23, 2011, 01:44:56 pm »

Yordani released. Wish it'd worked out differently for him...

Farmstros LINK showing a couple of great catches from the kid.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #145 on:** July 29, 2011, 10:50:29 pm »

Lancaster just got a lot more interesting. Welcome Mr Singleton.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #146 on:** July 31, 2011, 11:50:40 pm »

Singleton in for the 1st time as a Jethawk, just came on as a defensive replacement in the 7th.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #147 on:** August 01, 2011, 12:15:48 am »

And Singleton boots the first ball hit to him which leads to a run.

In better news, his first AB resulted in a double.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #148 on:** August 16, 2011, 03:04:31 pm »

Article on Jio from Zach Levine who is visiting Lancaster.

http://blog.chron.com/ultimateastros/2011/08/15/minor-league-notebook-jiovanni-mier-taking-it-one-step-at-a-time/

"“I take it very, very hard because I know that if I was to play to my full potential and done what I should have done the last two years, there’s no telling where I’d be right now.”"

jester9450 · « **Reply #149 on:** August 19, 2011, 11:30:17 am »

Has been any improvements by singleton at first and has he been hitting .

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #150 on:** August 24, 2011, 02:43:31 am »

Levine on Cisnero (and other Lancaster misc): Minor League Notebook LINK

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #151 on:** August 27, 2011, 10:10:57 am »

Anyone have anything on Meyer? I wouldn't say he's having a great season, but he definitely seems to be growing as a player this season. Granted, he does play half of his games at Lancaster (where his OPS is 160 points better), but he has hit half his 12 HR on the road. Plus, he is still only 20. Any chance he enters the future 3B discussion?

Reuben · « **Reply #152 on:** August 27, 2011, 11:50:58 am »

Quote from: astrosfan76 on August 27, 2011, 10:10:57 am

Anyone have anything on Meyer? I wouldn't say he's having a great season, but he definitely seems to be growing as a player this season. Granted, he does play half of his games at Lancaster (where his OPS is 160 points better), but he has hit half his 12 HR on the road. Plus, he is still only 20. Any chance he enters the future 3B discussion?

I wonder if the post-McLane/Wade regime will consider moving either he or Kvasnicka back to catcher, as both supposedly have great arms, but haven't hit as well as hoped.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #153 on:** September 07, 2011, 04:25:02 pm »

Season in Review – Lancaster Jethawks

Record: 55-85 (.393)
Hitting: .280/.352/.420 121HR 1075K 510BB 135SB 63CS 110GIDP
Pitching: 6.01ERA 1.57WHIP 177HR 971K 496BB
(I guess the wind only blows out in the top half of each inning.)

Offensive Leaders
Austin Wates – G/PA/AB/R/H/2B(tie)/3B/RBI/TB/GIDP/HBP(tie)/SF(tie)
Kody Hinze – HR(22)/BB/AVG/OBP/SLG
Grant Hogue – SB/HBP(tie)/Sac
Jonathan Meyer – 2B(tie)/K/SF(tie)
Jay Austin -- CS

Pitching Leaders
Jake Buchanan – ERA(3.91)/IP/SHO/BF/WHIP
Andrew Robinson – W-L/HB(tie)
Jose Cisnero – GS/BB/K/HB(tie)/WP
Kirk Clark – G/GF/SV

As the season progresses
April: 11-12 (.478)
May: 10-19 (.345)
June: 9-16 (.360)
July: 11-18 (.379)
August: 14-20 (.412)

Outfield
April LF: Goebbert(Wates/Austin); CF: Austin(Wates); RF: Wates/Hogue/(Goebbert)
May LF: Wates/Comadena/(Austin/Goebbert); CF: Austin(Wates); RF: Hogue/(Wates)
June LF: Wates/(Austin/Simunic); CF: Austin(Wates); RF: Hogue
July LF: Wates/Comadena/Hogue/Simunic; CF: Wates/Hogue/(Simunic); RF: Hogue(Bailey)
August LF: Adamson/(Wates/Simunic); CF: Wates(Hogue); RF: Bailey/(Hogue/Simunic)
There were a lot of comings & goings in the Lancaster OF this year, though Austin Wates (.300/.366/.413) and Grant Hogue (.269/.342/.337 with 28 SB) usually ended up somewhere. Jacob Goebbert (.250/.319/.413 with 5 HR in 104 AB) played well enough early to get the call to Corpus Christi in early May, while Adam Bailey (.289/.316/.430 with 5 HR in 128 AB) passed through on his way between Lexington and Corpus. Daniel Adamson joined in August, but hit only .155/.206/.259 in 65 PA, while Jay Austin wore out his welcome and was shipped back to Lexington in early July having hit just .257/.318/.365 while striking out 73 times in 315 AB and being thrown out on 11 of 28 SB attempts. In all of this, erstwhile catcher Jordan Comadena (.295/.389/.432) and uber-utility-guy Andrew Simunic (.295/.371/.423) saw significant time in the OF.

Infield
April 1B: Hinze; 2B: Altuve; 3B: Meyer; SS: Villar
May 1B: Hinze; 2B: Altuve; 3B: Meyer; SS: Villar
June 1B: Hinze(Flores); 2B: Thompson(Simunic/Arrendell); 3B: Meyer; SS: Thompson/Mier/(Arrendell)
July 1B: Flores(Hinze); 2B: Thompson(Simunic); 3B: Meyer; SS: Mier(Arrendell)
August 1B: Singleton 2B: Simunic/Todd(Thompson); 3B: Meyer; SS: Mier
Things went along like clockwork through April and May until the First Great Convulsion hit. Jose Altuve (.408/.451/606) and Jonathan Villar (.259/.353/.414) had played themselves into a promotion (the first of two for Altuve). David Flores was sent down from Corpus, and after a delay, Jiovanni Mier was promoted from Lexington. In the meantime, Andrew Simunic, Cuban refugee Jose Thompson (.303/.340/.468) and another utilityman, Miguel Arrendell (.281/.357/.404) were pressed into regular service. Flores (.311/.371/.585 with 12 HR in only 183 AB) ended up playing a lot of 1B after Hinze (.323/.458/.625 with a team-high 22 HR in 285 AB) joined Corpus as part of the Second Great Convulsion. Erik Castro came off the DL to play some 1B & 3B, but was mostly a DH hitting .259/.350/.422 with 9 HR in 263 AB. After Jonathan Singleton (.333/.405/.512) came over in “the trade”, Thompson & Flores eventually made it back to Corpus, while Arrendell was banished to Tri-City in the Last Great Convulsion, which also led to Alex Todd (.298/.310/.421 in only 59 PA) becoming the regular at 2B in mid-August after getting the jump from Greeneville. And I almost forgot Hector Rodriguez who got a brief warm-up in June before joining Tri-City. These guys have more frequent flyer miles than I do! Of the surviving cast, only Singleton, Mier and maybe Todd & Meyer look to be upwardly mobile.

Catcher
April Garcia(Heath)
May Garcia(Heath)
June Garcia(Heath/Comadena)
July Garcia(Hernandez)
August Garcia/Hernandez
21-year-old Rene Garcia won the starting job and quietly put together a solid .242/.288/.303 season amidst the chaos, though he seemed to tire near the end. He hit his high-water mark at the plate with a .350/.426/.417 May and his nadir with a .159/.194/.206 August. He will be one to watch next year. Ben Heath (.262/.333/.441 with 5 HR and 41 K in 145 AB) was the backup and regular DH until the musical chairs sent him to Lexington to replace Wallace. Federico Hernandez was displaced by Wallace after being overmatched at AA, but did not fare much better in Lancaster, hitting a wind-aided .194/.252/.296 for the season. Behind the plate, both Garcia & Hernandez were solid, throwing out 30% and 31% of attempted base-stealers respectively and allowing a combined 10 PB in 113 games. Heath. Meanwhile, should probably focus on offense, as he threw out only 5 of 45 base-stealers and allowed 5 PB in 28 games.

Rotation
April Cisnero/Robinson/Donovan/Buchanan/Doran
May Cisnero/Donovan/Buchanan/Doran/Cruz
June Cisnero/Robinson/Donovan/Buchanan/Grimmett
July Cisnero/Robinson/Donovan/Buchanan/Grimmett
August Cisnero/Robinson/Donovan/Buchanan/Grimmett/Musick
Given all the turmoil elsewhere, the rotation was surprisingly stable. They were consistent among themselves, too; apart from Jake Buchanan’s team-leading 3.91 ERA and 1.21 WHIP, the other five to reach double-digits in starts all had ERA’s above 6.00 and WHIP’s above 1.50. Buchanan also threw a complete game shutout, had a 102:35 K:BB ratio, and earned a trip to Corpus for his final start of the year. Jose Cisnero (8-11, 6.06 ERA, 152 K and 75 BB in 123+ IP) and Robert Donovan (5-14, 6.29, 94 K, 54 BB in 137+ IP) were the only other full-time starters. Zach Grimmett (6-12, 6.81) and Andrew Robinson (8-10, 6.29) were in and out of the rotation, while Bobby Doran (1-3, 9.04) went on the DL and was sent to the bullpen on his return. Luis Cruz replaced Robinson during the latter’s brief sojourn in Corpus Christi in May, and posted a whopping 14.54 ERA in 4 starts before being sent back to Lexington to recover from shell-shock.

Bullpen – by IP
April Grimmett/Musick/Alvino/Pitkin/Clark/Ness/Trinidad
May Grimmett/Robinson/Ness/Alvino/Pitkin/Clark/Musick/Ramirez
June Berner/Ness/Alvino/Ramirez/Clark/Hicks/Pitkin/Wolf
July Ness/Alvino/Wolf/Hicks/Berner/Clark/Pitkin/Ramirez/Musick
August Doran/Greenwalt/Ness/Alvino/Urckfitz/Wolf/Clark/Pitkin/Meiners
Kirk Clark was the closer as he was last year in Lexington. He finished at 3-5 with 19 saves and 50 K in 52+ IP, but he also had 29 BB (6 intentional) and a 7.01 ERA. And in case you are thinking “ERA doesn’t matter with relievers”, bear in mind that he also gave up 64 base hits (9 HR) for a 1.77 WHIP, hit 5 batters and uncorked 11 wild pitches. The rest of the group that spent the whole season in Lancaster was lackluster, though pitching in the launching pad does not help. This group includes Michael Ness (5.98 ERA), Wander Alvino (4.19 with 73 K and 51 BB in 73 IP), Wes Musick (5.14 ERA in the first half improving to 4.80 after a trip to the DL and including 5 late-season starts), and Colt Pitkin (whose 3.82 first-half ERA blew up to a season-ending 6.45 after a disastrous second half featuring ERA’s of 7.45 in July and 10.80 in August). Jose Trinidad went out for the season after 10 appearances in April and early May, while both David Berner (6.21 ERA in 20 appearances) and Yordany Ramirez (11.88 ERA in 19 appearances after his promotion from Lexington) pitched themselves out of the organization. Chris Hicks (3.28 with 28 K and only 5 BB in 24+ IP) came back from last year’s injury and earned a promotion back to Corpus Christi, while Shane Wolf (6.28 ERA in 19 appearances) was unimpressive after his demotion. Kyle Greenwalt (1.85 with a 1.07 WHIP in 24+ IP) and Pat Urckfitz (2.02, 17 K and a 0.83 WHIP in 13+ IP) were also demoted with the influx of trade talent, but both earned a late-season recall to Corpus. Jeremiah Meiners made two late-season appearances, and uber-utilityman Andrew Simunic added pitcher to his resume in August to round things out.

In sum: Lancaster’s launching pad launched the careers of a few offensive studs this year, but torpedoed a few of the pitchers. Jake Buchanan stands out as a survivor there, and at 21 he is definitely one to watch. Houston tried to spare their better pitching prospects the ordeal, and the stats (including the W-L record) reflect that decision. Most of the remaining offensive “talent” (with exceptions noted above) is probably in the “suspect” rather than “prospect” category.

Jacksonian · « **Reply #154 on:** September 07, 2011, 10:13:17 pm »

Buchanan finished 8th in the Cali League in ERA amongst those who qualify with enough innings. He was one of only nine qualifying pitchers to finish with a sub-4 ERA.