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The Tides (Still) Wait For No Man

Rotblatt Apr 04 2006 12:58 PM Edited 2 time(s), most recently on Apr 05 2006 07:47 AM

Taking the cue from JD, here's the thread to track our AAA Tides, whose first game is Thursday, April 6--the beginning of a four-game series against the Durham Bulls. I'll kick it off with an [url=http://home.hamptonroads.com/stories/story.cfm?story=102487&ran=240813]article[/url] about uber-prospect Lastings Milledge. With skipper Oberkfell recovering from surgery, Tony Tijerina, the Mets minor league field coordinator, is acting manager. Here's a partial roster of players. Norfolk hasn't posted their final roster on their website yet. New acquisitions are in blue. Guys to watch are in bold. C: J. Hietpas (26), S. Martinez 1B: C. Brazell (25) 2B: J. Keppinger (25) 3B: C. Lambin (26) SS: C. Basak (27) OF: Milledge (21), A. Concepcion (24), T. Self (27) SP: J. Scobie (26), J. Maine (24), Y. Iriki (33), J. Lima(33) RP: H. Bell (28), R. Ring (25), B. McGinley (27), J. Hill (28), J. Riggan (31), T. Lavigne (27), S. Schmoll (26), B. Fortunato (31), J. Perez (27), M. Wylie (29), P. Feliciano (29) on edit: Changed Opening Day. Got confused by their online schedule.

MFS62 Apr 04 2006 01:51 PM

With a lot of last round cuts, that squad should be playing in a AAAA League. Later

Edgy DC Apr 06 2006 12:47 PM

Mitch Wylie, we already know, refused his assignment. Filling his spot, the Mets have plucked Seton Hall infield product Ray Navarette out of thin air. Catchers No Name Pos DOB Height Weight Bats Throws 51 Joe Hietpas C 05/01/79 6' 3" 220 lbs R R 29 Zac Clements C 04/17/80 6' 0" 215 lbs R R 31 Sandy Martinez C 10/08/70 6' 2" 215 lbs L R Infielders No Name Pos DOB Height Weight Bats Throws 12 Chase Lambin IF 07/07/79 6' 1" 180 lbs B R 10 Chris Basak IF 12/06/78 6' 2" 190 lbs R R 7 Jeff Keppinger IF 04/21/80 6' 0" 180 lbs R R 11 Ray Navarrete IF 11/20/78 6' 0" 190 lbs R R 21 Juan Tejeda IF 01/26/82 6' 2" 195 lbs R R Outfielders No Name Pos DOB Height Weight Bats Throws 38 Cory Aldridge OF 06/13/79 6' 1" 220 lbs L R 27 Lastings Milledge OF 04/05/85 6' 0" 187 lbs R R 25 Julio Ramirez OF 08/10/77 5' 11" 197 lbs R R 28 Todd Self OF 11/09/78 6' 5" 215 lbs L R Pitchers No Name Pos DOB Height Weight Bats Throws 19 Heath Bell P 09/29/77 6' 3" 225 lbs R R 30 Tim LaVigne P 07/04/78 5' 10" 208 lbs R R 47 Blake McGinley P 08/02/78 6' 1" 175 lbs R L 22 Jason Scobie P 09/01/78 6' 1" 195 lbs R R 40 Royce Ring P 12/21/80 6' 0" 220 lbs L L 39 Pedro Feliciano P 08/25/76 5' 10" 185 lbs L L 43 Bartolome Fortunato P 08/24/74 6' 1" 197 lbs R R 54 Jeremi Gonzalez P 01/08/75 6' 0" 220 lbs R R 16 Yusaku Iriki P 05/10/80 5' 10" 180 lbs R R 32 Jose Lima P 09/30/72 6' 2" 200 lbs R R 33 John Maine P 05/08/81 6' 4" 193 lbs R R 35 Juan Perez P 09/03/78 6' 0" 170 lbs R L 46 Steve Schmoll P 02/04/80 6' 2" 200 lbs R R They're not showing Soler, who may well have gone to extended spring training until a spot opens up. So I'm guessing the rotation is Gonzalez, Lima, Iriki, Scobie, Maine?

Rotblatt Apr 06 2006 10:16 PM

Well, the Tides got crushed by the Bulls tonight, 8-0. Lima got the start an only managed 5 innings, giving up 4 ER on 7 H, including 2 HR. He struck out 4 and didn't walk any. Milledge led off and went 1-4. Keppinger, batting second, went 1-3 with a double and a walk. Matt Wylie, who was released by the Mets then re-signed to a minor league deal, pitched 1.7 IP, striking out 4 but allowing 2 runs, 2 hits and a walk. Schmoll went .7 IP, allowing 3 H, 2 ER & a walk. Lefty Juan Perez went 1.7 IP, giving up 2 H & a BB, but K'ing 2.

Edgy DC Apr 06 2006 10:20 PM

Smiley Wiley ends up a Metty after all. Howsaboutthat?

Rotblatt Apr 07 2006 12:14 PM

From BP: ]The 2-3-4 hitters in Durham's lineup: If you live in the Triangle down in North Carolina, get to Durham and get there quick, as I get the feeling that this isn't going to last very long. On Opening Day however, as righthander Jason Hammel was striking out seven in five shutout innings, shortstop B.J. Upton, right fielder Delmon Young and left fielder Elijah Dukes each had two hits, with Upton adding a double, a stolen base and, just as importantly, no errors. Roster breakdown from the Virginia Pilot: ]Heath Bell Righthanded pitcher Age: 28 Ht: 6-3 Wt: 226 Last year: Saw action in 42 games for the New York Mets as a middle reliever, going 1-3 with a 5.59 ERA. The rest of the season was spent with the Tides, for whom he’s pitched parts of the last four seasons. This year: Bell’s goal is to leave the minor leagues behind . . . for good. Bartolome Fortunato Righthanded pitcher Age: 31 Ht: 6-1 Wt: 197 Last year: Something flared up in his back in spring training. By June, he was undergoing surgery to repair a herniated disk. This year: It’s all about regaining that magic that allowed Fortunato to strike out 434 in 396.2 innings in his six previous professional seasons. Jeremi Gonzalez Righthanded pitcher Age: 31 Ht: 6-0 Wt: 220 Last year: Bounced between Boston and Triple-A Pawtucket. Was 2-1 with a 6.11 ERA for Boston. While with Pawtucket, he was 5-2 with a 2.61 ERA in 11 starts. This year: Has spent the last three years bouncing between the majors and Triple-A. No reason to believe this won’t be a similar scenario. Yusaku Iriki Righthanded pitcher Age: 33 Ht: 5-10 Wt: 180 Last year: Was 6-7 with a 3.35 ERA for the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters in Japan. Ranked in the top 10 in Japan in strikeouts and ERA, had two quality starts and two shutouts. This year: Another attempt by the Mets to blend a Japanese player into the mix. They’ve had mixed results with this so far. Tim LaVigne Righthanded pitcher Age: 27 Ht: 5-10 Wt: 208 Last year: LaVigne was dazzling at the Double-A level early – 1.04 ERA and five saves in eight appearances – then ground out the rest of the year with the Tides, going 1-3 with a 3.65 ERA in middle relief. He was then Reliever of the Year in Puerto Rico Winter League with 20 saves in 27 appearances. This year: A split-fingered fastball is his new weapon. Jose Lima Righthanded pitcher Age: 33 Ht: 6-2 Wt: 210 Last year: Had a tough year with Kansas City, going 5-16 with a 6.99 ERA. This year: He’s a reclamation project, hoping to regain the sizzle that led to a 13-5 mark with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2004. A 21-game winner in 1999 while with Houston, he could quickly vault back into the majors. John Maine Righthanded pitcher Age: 24 Ht: 6-4 Wt: 203 Last year: Split time between Triple-A Ottawa and Baltimore and was 2-3 with a 6.30 ERA with the Orioles in 10 appearances, eight of those starts. This year: Maine could make the Mets look smart in their 2-for-1 deal that sent Kris Benson to the Orioles in exchange for Jorge Julio and Maine. Blake McGinley Lefthanded pitcher Age: 27 Ht: 6-1 Wt: 175 Last year: Spent most of the campaign with the Tides, going 4-4 with a 3.42 ERA and two saves. This year: A crafty lefthander in an organization that doesn’t have many at the higher levels, McGinley could make himself very valuable if he gets off to a fast start. Juan Perez Lefthanded pitcher Age: 27 Ht: 6-0 Wt: 170 Last year: Was 4-5 with a 4.50 ERA in middle relief for Triple-A Pawtucket. This year: A free agent lefthander who will have an opportunity to prove himself to the Mets. Royce Ring Lefthanded pitcher Age: 25 Ht: 6-0 Wt: 220 Last year: Saw action with the Mets and in 11 of his 15 appearances was unscored upon. Was 0-2 with a 5.06 ERA in majors, 3-0 with a 3.26 ERA with the Tides in 33 appearances. This year: Yet another lefthander who could end up in the big-league bullpen soon. Ring has a 14-7 career record in the minors and has steadily climbed up the ladder to get here. Steve Schmoll Righthanded pitcher Age: 26 Ht: 6-3 Wt: 220 Last year: Spent much of the season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, making 48 appearances and picking up three saves, posting a 2-2 record and 5.01 ERA. Was also with Triple-A Las Vegas briefly. This year: Comes to the Mets organization as part of the multi-player trade for Jae Seo. Jason Scobie Righthanded pitcher Age: 26 Ht: 6-1 Wt: 195 Last year: Was the Tides’ player of the year after equaling the club record for victories, going 15-7 with a 3.37 ERA. This year: Was a non-roster invitee to the Mets’ spring training camp, so the parent club has an eye on him. Mitch Wylie Righthanded pitcher Age: 29 Ht: 6-3 Wt: 195 Last year: Began the season playing Independent League ball for Sioux City. Was eventually signed by San Francisco and went 3-5 with a 4.50 ERA for Triple-A Fresno. This year: Could be a spot starter when not coming out of the bullpen. Joe Hietpas Catcher Age: 26 Ht: 6-3 Wt: 220 Bats: Right Throws: Right Last year: Spent the majority of the year with Double-A Binghamton, joining the Tides late in the summer. Batted .216 with Binghamton and .194 with the Tides. This year: Should split time behind the plate with Sandy Martinez. Sandy Martinez Catcher Age: 35 Ht: 6-2 Wt: 215 Bats: Left Throws: Right Last year: Helped the Toledo Mud Hens win an International League title by hitting .265 with five home runs and 35 RBIs. This year: Despite his age, Martinez should do much of the catching for the Tides. Martinez has spent parts or all of eight seasons in the major leagues with six different clubs. He is a viable insurance policy for the major league club. Chris Basak Infielder Age: 27 Ht: 6-2 Wt: 190 Bats: Right Throws: Right Last year: Solid season for the Tides in which he hit .272 with eight homers and 41 RBIs in 93 games. This year: Should see a lot of time at shortstop with the Tides. Jeff Keppinger Infielder Age: 25 Ht: 6-0 Wt: 180 Bats: Right Throws: Right Last year: A banner season was cut short by injury when Keppinger fractured a bone in his leg while turning a double play. Was hitting .337 and seemed headed for a callup before the injury occurred. This year: Will look to pick up where he left off while trying to show the Mets he has more range at second base. Chase Lambin Infielder Age: 26 Ht: 6-1 Wt: 180 Bats: Switch Throws: Right Last year: Had a break-out year in which he was an Eastern League All-Star infielder in Double-A, then was promoted to Triple-A and flourished. All told, Lambin had 24 homers and batted a combined .309. This year: Could make a name for himself with another productive season. Ray Navarette Infielder Age: 27 Ht: 6-0 Wt: 190 Bats: Right Throws: Right Last year: Hit .232 for Double-A Corpus Christi in the Houston organization and .260 for Independent League-member Somerset. This year: Shooting to reclaim the magic that led to a .318 average with Class A Lynchburg in 2002. Juan Tejeda First baseman Age: 24 Ht: 6-2 Wt: 195 Bats: Right Throws: Right Last year: Hit .291 with 14 homers and 82 RBIs for Double-A Erie in the Detroit organization. This year: His transition to Triple-A ball could be eased should the Mets send Anderson Hernandez down to Norfolk. Tejeda and Hernandez are best friends. Cory Aldridge Outfielder Age: 26 Ht: 6-1 Wt: 220 Bats: Left Throws: Right Last year: Played briefly with Triple-A Omaha, but mostly with Double-A Wichita, where he hit .271 with 27 home runs and 77 RBIs in 98 games. This year: If the winds are friendly at Harbor Park, he could be the Tides’ most dangerous lefthanded power hitter since Roberto Petagine. Lastings Milledge Outfielder Age: 20 Ht: 6-1 Wt: 187 Bats: Right Throws: Right Last year: Baseball America tabbed him the top prospect in the Mets organization, with good reason. The 12th overall pick of the 2003 draft, Milledge hit .302 for Class A St. Lucie and .337 for Double-A Binghamton. This year: With a .313 career average in the minors, it’s just a matter of continuing to hit . . . and waiting for a shot at the majors. Julio Ramirez Outfielder Age: 28 Ht: 5-11 Wt: 197 Bats: Right Throws: Right Last year: Spent majority of the season with Triple-A Fresno, hitting .241 with 23 homers and 60 RBIs. Was a September call-up to the San Francisco Giants and played briefly. This year: With his power and speed – he stole 22 bases last season – a bump up in batting average could make increase his value. Todd Self Outfielder Age: 27 Ht: 6-5 Wt: 215 Bats: Left Throws: Right Last year: Batted .298 for Triple-A Round Rock in the Houston organization with eight homers and 47 RBIs. Hit .200 in 18 games with the parent Astros. This year: The Mets picked Self up off waivers when Houston designated him for assignment last September. It could prove to be a smart move by the Mets. Tony Tijerina Interim manager Tijerina was named interim manager while Ken Oberkfell recovers from leg surgery. In five years as a manager in the Mets organization, he compiled a 333-308 record (.520 winning percentage). He is the Mets minor league field coordinator.

Rotblatt Apr 07 2006 12:16 PM Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Apr 07 2006 01:55 PM

Also from the [url=http://home.hamptonroads.com/stories/story.cfm?story=102679&ran=192500]Pilot[/url]: ]Lima, who has 12 years of experience in the majors and is trying to get back there after going 5-16 with the Kansas City Royals last season, was tagged with the loss, allowing seven hits over five innings and leaving with the Tides trailing 4-0. But he made a curtain call to sing “God Bless America” on behalf of the local police and firefighters who were honored by the Tides on Opening Night. And Lima was impressive with the microphone in hand. Then again, it did not surprise the Tides after what he’d done on Wednesday. With local national anthem singers testing the speakers at Harbor Park while the Tides took batting practice, Lima strolled over and calmly took the mike from one of the singers after she’d finished. He then leaned against the netting behind home plate and casually started singing “God Bless America.” Asked by team officials if he could do that during games, he happily agreed. “I’d heard about him singing in the clubhouse during spring training to keep the guys loose,” Basak said. “He’s definitely got some talent.”

Edgy DC Apr 07 2006 12:23 PM

By the way, minor league umpires are on strike arnd being replaced by scabs whose names aren't being released. Review the issues and see if you want to support your minor-league umpires.

Rotblatt Apr 09 2006 06:31 AM

Norfolk game called on account of rain yesterday. April 7 Chase Lambin singled in Lastings Milledge in the bottom of the first to give the Tides a lead, but the Tides held it for only 1/2 an inning, as SP J. Gonzalez got dinked to death by the powerhouse Bulls: 5.33 IP, 7 H (1 2B, 1 3B), 5 ER, 1 K Lavigne, Feliciano & Fortunato were all perfect in relief, going 1.7, 1.3 & .7 innings, respectively. DH Navarrete hit a two-run homer in the second to tie the Bulls and CF Julio Ramirez hit a solo shot in the 8th to bring the Tides within 1. They went down quietly in the 9th, however, and lost 5-4.

Rotblatt Apr 12 2006 07:57 AM

Tides won their second game last night, 6-4, as Lima pitched 6 strong innings, allowing 4 hits and 1 earned run while striking out 3. He didn't walk anyone. Tides are 2-4 on the season. Milledge went 1-3 with a double and a walk. He's batting .300 AVG/.400 OBP/.400 SLG/.800 OPS in 20 AB. 1 BB, 3 K. Keppinger went 0-3 with a walk. He's been displaying a fine eye at the plate in 17 AB: .235 AVG/.391 OBP/.294 SLG/.685 OPS with 5 BB & 0 K. SS Basak went 1-3 with a walk. He's been Norfolk's hottest hitter so far, going .375 AVG/.524 OBP/.500 SLG/1.024 OPS in 16 AB. 5 BB, 2 K. 3B Chase Lambin, who's been hitting cleanup, went 2-4 with a double. .273 AVG/.304 OBP/.409 SLG/.713 OPS Feliciano pitched a scoreless inning in relief. Fortunado got hit hard, giving up 3 ER in 2/3 of an inning. Ring relieved with a runner on second and two outs, but didn't make an out, walking Cooper, hitting Merloni with a pitch, then giving up a single to Gautreau. Heath Bell came on to strike out Jose Flores. In the ninth, he earned his first save of '06 by striking out Einar Diaz & Franklin Gutierrez before getting Ben Francisco to ground out. For the season, Bell has been perfect through 2.3 IP, striking out 6 of the 7 batter he faced. Here's a crazy idea--let's call him up.

Rotblatt Apr 19 2006 10:53 AM Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Apr 19 2006 11:21 AM

Iriki's been released. Batters Lastings "I'm ready NOW" Milledge: 44 AB, .386 AVG/.491 OBP/.636 SLG/1.127 OPS, 6 BB, 7 K, 3 SB, 1 CS IF, Juan "Picking up Where I Left Off This Spring" Tejeda: 22 AB, .318 AVG/.348 OBP/.545 SLG/.893 OPS, 1 BB, 4 K Middle IF, Chris "Consistent" Basak, .310 AVG/.420 OBP/.381 SLG/.801 OPS, 7 BB, 10 K, 1 SB, 2 CS Kaz "Meh" Matsui: 11 AB, .273 AVG/.273 OBP/.455 SLG/.727 OPS, 0 BB, 2 K Jeff "I was good last year!" Keppinger: 38 AB, .263 AVG/.362 OBP/.289 SLG/.651 OPS, 7 BB, 1 K Pitchers SP Jeremi Gonzalez: 18 IP, 3.50 ERA, 1.00 WHIP, 14 K, 3 BB SP Lima Time: 15 IP, 8.40 ERA, 1.53 WHIP, 13 K, 1 BB SP John Maine: 12 IP, 1.50 ERA, 0.83 WHIP, 6 K, 3 BB SP Scobie: 9 IP, 8.00 ERA, 1.67 WHIP, 8 K, 3 BB RP Lavigne: 8.2 IP, 2.08 ERA, 0.46 WHIP, 4 K, 2 BB C Bell: 5.1 IP, 3.38 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, 5 K, 1 BB RP McGinley: 4 IP, 2.25 ERA, 1.50 WHIP, 3 K, 3 BB On edit: Gonzalez is a 31-year old journeyman with a career line of 516.2 IP, 4.84 ERA, 1.42 WHIP, 310 K, 215 BB. He's pitched mostly in the AL, last pitching in the NL in 1998 at the age of 23. If we needed to call up a starter, Gonzalez would be a pretty good bet. Most NL batters won't have seen him, and he might do a little better than average his first time through teams Maine's looking pretty decent now too, although he's going to have to work on improving his K rate. Bell's been solid, although he's no longer pitching lights-out. With Julio seemingly turning it around and Feliciano looking decent yesterday, Bell won't get a chance unless someone goes down with an injury. Kind of a shame. I wonder if we'll end up letting him go and regretting it, ala Wheels.

Elster88 Apr 19 2006 10:56 AM

Matsui is hitting better than Keppinger?? What has gone wrong with this world?!?! After Cairo and Hernandez, I was assured that Keppinger was also better than Matsui.

Yancy Street Gang Apr 19 2006 10:57 AM

]Lastings "I'm ready NOW" Milledge: 44 AB, .386 AVG/.491 OBP/.636 SLG/1.127 OPS, 6 BB, 7 K, 3 SB, 1 CS Wow. I have to at least ask, why are we diddling around with Jose Valentin in left field?

Elster88 Apr 19 2006 10:59 AM

Excellent question. I'm not able to answer it. I can never remember the rules though about call-ups and call-downs and how many times it can be done before other teams can snatch him and when his free agency clock starts. If Beltran and Floyd really aren't hurt that badly I wouldn't want to f--- with any of that stuff.

Centerfield Apr 19 2006 11:04 AM

Where's Alay Soler?

Edgy DC Apr 19 2006 11:14 AM

I'm certain that it hasn't so much to do with free agency clocks but rather putting the long-term needs of Milledge's development ahead of the short-term needs of outfielders for this series. Disagree with that as you may.

Yancy Street Gang Apr 19 2006 11:20 AM

I think that's the case too. And by asking the question, I wasn't necessarily advocating Milledge's promotion. But I'm also not convinced that it would be a bad idea either.

*62 Apr 19 2006 11:34 AM

Centerfield wrote: Where's Alay Soler? st. lucie 17K and 8H in 15 IP (3 starts) ........ 0.60 ERA ........ 1.00 WHIP He's dominating http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/app/milb/stats/stats.jsp?t=t_ibp&cid=507

Centerfield Apr 19 2006 11:38 AM

Thanks 62. Couldn't help but notice from your link that we have an Edgar Alfonzo pitching! Is that who I think it is?

Edgy DC Apr 19 2006 11:43 AM

Not convinced either and I'm sure it's come up. The thing is that up until 15 hours ago there was no pressure to do anything. One smacking and we're all al ittle nervous. It's bad that none of their AAAA-type batters are performing. One thing --- the Mets have got to take Matsui to San Diego. Edgar is the Fonz's nephew and my adopted son. I'm calling him Spike.

Frayed Knot Apr 19 2006 12:12 PM

]I can never remember the rules though about call-ups and call-downs and how many times it can be done before other teams can snatch him and when his free agency clock starts. Conditions vary depending on the status of the guy you're calling up, but here's what would be involved with Milledge: - He's not yet on the 40-man roster so would need to be added first. That would entail taking someone off it such as was done when adding Feliciano (and while I doubt too many are crying over the loss of Iriki, with the lack of starting depth at the ML level you never know when a guy like him might be valuable - even if only temporarily). - 2006 would become his first "option year". This is probably small potatoes as I suspect we'll see him at some point this year anyway even if it's not until Sept call-ups. Plus, if he's as good as projected than you're not going to be worried about have the ability to farm him out 3 years down the road. And if he's not as good as projected ... - You'd also "start the clock" on his ML service time which *MIGHT* speed up his eligibility for Arb and FA. If it's only a temp call-up the 10-15 days he's active won't change a thing. I doubt we'll see him anytime soon. If Beltran needs DL-ing than Diaz comes back and if Beltran isn't DL'ed than there's no room for him. The '4-into-3' theory works OK if you've got guys who are mix-n-match types but it's not like a healthy Beltran, Floyd or even Nady as he's hitting now are going to sit out much and you're not going to bring Lastings up just to platoon. At least not yet.

Edgy DC Apr 19 2006 12:18 PM

Yeah, but it's not like they're healthy right now. And part of that strategy is getting and keeping them healthy. If everybody's hitting, I can't see why anybody whould have a large problem not starting once every fifth or sixth day instead of every tenth. If everybody isn't hitting, the problem will solve itself.

Frayed Knot Apr 19 2006 12:27 PM

"I can't see why anybody whould have a large problem not starting once every fifth or sixth day instead of every tenth" Re-phrased that could read as; 'we're developing a plan where we make sure our multi-million dollar sluggers (Beltran, Floyd, maybe Delgado) miss at least 17%-20% of our games'

Edgy DC Apr 19 2006 12:34 PM

Well, 17-20% of their starts, anyway, but better they miss them in staying healthy, than on the DL or hobbling; they also have a big long-term investment in Milledge, even most of it isn't already accounted for in his current contract they also have a big long-term investment in winning as many games this eyear as possible. Floyd is the only one in a contract year, so he's the most likely to be a malcontent because the difference between 24 and 28 homers could cost him, but presumably increased rest would improve his percentages.

Frayed Knot Apr 19 2006 12:41 PM

I want the big bats in my lineup starting more than 130 games/year and am not real anxious to have my #1 prospect sitting even more often instead of playing everyday at AAA.

Edgy DC Apr 19 2006 12:47 PM

Well, the assumption (this conversation is in the wrong thread) was Dickshot's scenario "Millege called up temporarily and rakes" which I assume to mean that he hit as good as or better than at least one of the "big bats."

Rotblatt Apr 21 2006 11:07 AM

4/20/06 Norfolk's mistress Luna has kept the Tides (4-11) at a constant ebb this season, as last night's 3-9 loss to the Red Wings floated them into a tie for last place. Rochester capitilized on Norfolk's waning defense, overcoming waxy performances from Milledge, Lambin & Keppinger. Milledge went 1-3 with 2 walks and stole his fourth base on the year. He has now walked in four straight games. Lambin, hitting in the three hole, went 2-3 with a double and a home run, also walking twice. Keppinger went 2-5 with a double. Starter Maine struggled, then was hung out to dry in the third inning by the defensive blunders of shortstop Basak and first baseman Tejeda. With 2 out in the third, the Red Wings had gained 2-1 lead, and Terry Tiffee was at the plate with 2 out and runners on first and second. Tejeda fielded Tiffee's grounder and threw it past Maine, who was covering first. Both runners came around to score, and Tiffee advanced to second. Josh Rabe followed with a grounder to Basak, who misplayed the ball, allowing Rabe to reach and Tiffee to score. Maine's final line: 5 IP, 9 H, 7 R, 4 ER, 1 BB, 3 K, 1HR, 1 WP Season stats: Maine: 0-3, 17 IP, 3.18 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 9 K, 4 BB, 1 HR Milledge: 50 AB, .400 AVG/.530 OBP/.620 SLG/1.150 OPS, 4 SB, 2 CS, 1 HR, 11/8 BB/K Lambin: 54 AB, .185 AVG/.237 OBP/.315 SLG/.552 OPS, 1HR, 3/9 BB/K Keppinger: 48 AB, .292 AVG/.379 OBP/.333 SLG/.712 OPS, 8/1 BB/K If Beltran's MRI comes and he's going to be out for a while, we should really think about bringing Milledge up. Dude's on fire, and he's walking at an incredible rate right now. If the eye he's showing is legit, he's going to be a serious, serious threat. Keppinger, meanwhile, is showing an unusually fine eye at the plate. He's never struck out much, but he's also never walked much. If HIS eye is for real, it'll really help make up for his lack of power. Victor Diaz sat the game out, but he's played in two games so far, amassing 10 at bats and hitting 3 singles, with no walks, 4 strikeouts, and one stolen base.

duan Apr 21 2006 11:12 AM

thing is, if milledge comes up he can play centre and possibly hit, unlike for example, ENDY CHAVEZ, who we are currently running out there. Bringing Diaz back up DOES not stop that. I'm 100% with Edgy on the 4 outfielders into 3, especially when Delgado gets an occasional rest Nady can fill in for him instead of y'know John Valentin or something horrible like that.

Elster88 Apr 21 2006 11:16 AM

][Keppinger's] never struck out much, but he's also never walked much. If HIS eye is for real, it'll really help make up for his lack of power. It's well documented that I think Kaz is a better player. But this sounds like the ideal #2 hitter to me if that doesn't work out. High OBP. Can he run?

Rotblatt Apr 21 2006 11:28 AM

Elster88 wrote: It's well documented that I think Kaz is a better player. But this sounds like the ideal #2 hitter to me if that doesn't work out. High OBP. Can he run? Not so much. He's got 26 career minor league steals in 3 years, and he's never broken more than 10 steals in a year. His career SB% is 68.4%. This year, over 14% of his plate appearances have resulted in a walk. Over his minor league career, that number is 7.8%. His start could very well wind up being a fluke or a minor uptick instead of a dramatic change, but at the very least, it's encouraging. Milledge career: 7.3% PA resulting in BB Milledge 2005: 7.2% Milledge 2006: 18% Again, it might be flukey. FWIW, the rest of the Tides haven't seen a similar uptick, so it's probably NOT as simple as the pitchers being shitty, but they might be working around Milledge in a weak lineup (stupid idea, IMO, since he's leading off and has good speed). Last night, however, Red Wing starter JD Durbin WAS pretty wild, walking 7 in just 4.3 IP.

Nymr83 Apr 21 2006 06:59 PM

From Adam Rubin's blog: ]Japanese reliever Yusaku Iriki cleared waivers and is scheduled to start tonight for Triple-A Norfolk. I guess we didnt lose him after all, someone said we had.

Frayed Knot Apr 21 2006 10:00 PM

Iriki was "designated for assignment" which isn't the same thing as losing him it just means that the Mets had a specific time for deciding what to do with him after removing him from the 40-man roster (a move made to promote Feliciano). So instead of cutting him loose they exposed him to waivers. Once he cleared he was simply re-signed and put right back where he was. The only difference now is that he's no longer on the 40-man meaning he'll be tougher to call up if needed.

Rotblatt Apr 24 2006 07:27 AM

[url=http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/minor-matters-breaking-down-the-hitters-hot-starts/]Chris Constancio[/url] from Hardball Times on Lastings Milledge's hot start: ]Milledge was recently rated THT's #15 prospect with the caveat that he "needs to draw more walks". The 21-year-old center fielder is off to a very good start for the Triple-A Norfolk Tides: YEAR LVL AB AVG OBP SLG HR XBH BB SO 2006 AAA 53 .396 .535 .623 1 9 12 8 The high batting average and all those extra base hits look good, but we already know he is capable of doing that. His 12 walks and 8 strikeouts are what really jump out at me. Milledge only walked 14 times in half a season with Double-A Binghamton last year, so this year's performance suggests a significant improvement. Milledge recognizes that he needs to draw more walks and says he is working on getting on base more often. He earned walks in fewer than 7% of his plate appearances last year, but he did walk in nearly 10% of his appearances in the Arizona Fall League last October. This year, he has earned unintentional walks in 15.7% of his plate appearances. Things seemed to change about a week ago: AB BA OBP BB/PA First 8 Games 28 .321 .424 7.1% Next 8 Games 25 .480 .649 24.3% The first half looks like the old Lastings Milledge. The second half looks like a MLB-ready leadoff hitter. If he performs between those two levels of production the rest of the season, Mets fans should be very happy. Can his recent high walk rate be explained by a couple of wild pitchers during their recent road trip? Probably not. Milledge's teammates drew 20 walks during their first eight games and 19 walks during the next 8 games. It's unlikely that Milledge will maintain such gaudy numbers for Norfolk throughout the season, but his performance to date does suggest real improvement in his ability to get on base. It's still unclear if he will ever hit for much power, but he is already starting to look more like the Mets' leadoff hitter for the 2007 season.

Rotblatt Apr 24 2006 07:52 AM

The Tides continue to struggle, losing to Rochester 2-6 and splitting a double header against Richmond yesterday (1-0, 1-4). During the second game of the double header, Milledge lost track of the number of outs, and started to trot home after catching the second out of the second inning. The runner at third came home to score easily. “A lack of concentration,” Milledge said. “At least I did it in Richmond and not in front of 40,000 people in New York.” Milledge was later robbed of a single as Richmond SS Luis Hernandez speared a hard-hit grounder and flipped to second for a force out. Against Rochester on Friday, Iriki, who cleared waivers and remained on the team, had another strong outing, allowing 5 hits and only 2 runs through 6 innings. He struck out 6 and walked 2. His performance wasn't enough, however, as the Tides anemic offense wasn't able to push across more than two runs of their own. Milledge remains red hot, going 1-3 with a double and a walk, and the Tides received a rare contribution from LF Corey Aldridge, who went 2-4 and raised his average to .167. The only regulars for the Tides over the Mendoza line are Milledge (.396), Keppinger (.283), Tejeda (.314) & Sandy Martinez (.214). In the first game of yesterday's double header, Lastings Milledge was the sole offensive threat, going 2-3 with a triple and an RBI. It was the Tides only run, but it was all they needed, as starter Lima Time threw a solid game, allowing only 3 hits through 6 innings and striking out 6, lowering his ERA to an even 6.00. He walked no one. After the game, the newly blond starter said he relied on his fastball more at the suggestion of catcher Sandy Martinez, who told him it would help establish his change. Bell saved the game in the seventh (says "completed early" whatever that means), allowing a single, but striking out two. Juan Tejeda went 0-3, snapping a 9-game hitting streak. During the second shortened game, Wylie got a rare start, and dissapointed, managing only 2 innings, allowing 3 runs on 5 hits. He struck out one. Juan Perez went 2 innings in relief, allowing an unearned run on consecutive errors from Keppinger and Self. He allowed 3 hits, a walk, and struck out 2. Royce Ring followed with 2 perfect innings, striking out 3, bringing his ERA down to 7.71. The Tides offense was limited to singles by Milledge, Keppinger, Lambin, Aldridge and PH Tejeda, and 2 walks by Todd Self.

Edgy DC Apr 24 2006 10:22 AM

The Mets have to find some bats to store at AAA. This could hurt the big-league club soon, if it hasn't already.

Rotblatt Apr 25 2006 07:42 AM

Tides got shut out by the Braves on at Norfolk last night, 2-0. Jeremi Gonalez pitched 5 effective innings, allowing 2 runs on 5 hits and 2 walks while striking out 2. His ERA is down to 3.52. Lavigne followed with 3 scoreless innings, allowing 3 hits and walking one. He fanned no one. Cumulative ERA: 3.55. Fortunato struck out the side in a perfect ninth: 10 IP, 2.70 ERA, 7 H, 3 ER, 0 HR, 2 BB, 12 K. Milledge went 2-4 with 2 SB (consecutive steals of second & third). Keppinger went 1-4 with a double, Lambin went 1-3 with a walk (.197 AVG), and Diaz parked his bat at the Interstate line by going 1-4. Lambin also committed his 4th error at third base. Australian WBC star [url=http://home.hamptonroads.com/stories/story.cfm?story=103494&ran=79722]Peter Moylan[/url] saved the game for Richmond by pitching a scoreless ninth. He allowed 2 hits and struck out 2. In 6 innings, he has a 3.00 ERA, 1.33 WHIP & 7 K's with 4 BB.

Rotblatt Apr 27 2006 05:09 PM

4/25: Tides Hand Scranton's Paper Merchants 10th Win in a Row Milledge: 1-3 with a BB Keppinger: 1-4 Lambin: 1-4 Tejeda: 1-3 Basak: 0-2, 2 BB Ramirez: 1-4 (.141 AVG) Hietpas: 1-4 (.235 AVG) Scobie: 7 IP, 6 H, 3 ER, 3 BB, 4 K (5.91 cumulative ERA) Fortunato: 0.2 IP, 1 K (10.7 IP, 2.53 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 13 K, 2 BB) 4/26: We win? Tides win 4-2. Maine dominated Scranton's Paper Merchants for 7 brilliant innings, allowing only 1 run on 5 hits and a walk, while striking out 9. Milledge went 1-3 with a walk and 2 runs scored. Ho hum. Keppinger went 2-4 to raise his average to .286 Diaz went 1-4 and is now batting .179 Tejeda went 1-2 with a 2B & a walk Basak 1-3 with a 3B Heath Bell saved the game, allowing 1 hit and striking out 2 in the ninth. 4/27: We lose. Again. The Paper Merchants got their revenge today as newly promoted super prospect Cole Hamels shut us down for 7 innings. He allowed only 3 hits while striking out 14. He didn't walk anyone. Iriki countered for the Tides but wasn't up to the task, allowing 10 hits and 4 runs in just 5 innings while walking 2. He did strike out 8, but his ERA rose to 3.74. Milledge was hitless, but he did draw a walk. Basak went 2-4 with a double and Victor Diaz went 1-4. No other Tides reached base. The Tides are now in sole posession of last place with a 6-16 record. I'm pretty sure Milledge has reached in about 10 straight games. Maybe more.

MFS62 Apr 27 2006 05:57 PM

Despite what the clever title of the thread says, it appears the Tides are waiting for a man or two who can drive in some runs. Later

Frayed Knot Apr 30 2006 10:54 PM

- Heath Bell notched career minor-league save No. 100 last Sunday. (Cumulative minor league milestones are a mixed blessing at best) Also, several players on the move to Norfolk (courtesy A. Rubin's DN Blog): - RHP Anderson Garcia, who had a 1.59 ERA and a save in nine relief appearances at Double-A Binghamton, earned a promotion to Norfolk on Friday. He replaces Mitch Wylie, the Rule 5 pick from the Giants who landed on the disabled list for the second time this season with a shoulder issue. - Binghamton’s Miguel Perez (1-1, 3.86 ERA) is expected to move to Triple-A Norfolk and enter the rotation.

Edgy DC Apr 30 2006 11:25 PM

Nice. But last time I checked (one post ago), Norfolk needed bats.

Edgy DC May 01 2006 07:57 AM

For what it's worth, Michael Tucker went .323 / .417 / .419 // .836 in 36 plate appearances for the Carolina Mudcats.

Frayed Knot May 01 2006 11:12 PM

="Edgy DC"]Nice. But last time I checked (one post ago), Norfolk needed bats. And Mars needs women, but sometimes you just have to be patient. Actually, from the same blog; ... Tagg Bozied, released by the Padres this month, has joined the Mets organization. The Scott Boras client had received a $700,000 bonus when he joined San Diego after being selected in the third round in 2001. But the power-hitting first baseman ruptured a knee tendon and dislocated his knee in ’04 while jumping onto home plate to celebrate a walk-off homer – an injury he initially feared would be career-ending. Bozied, 26, hit a combined .293 with five homers and 22 RBI in 99 at-bats last season for Triple-A Portland and Double-A Mobile I remember this guy a little bit from a few years back - mostly from the name. He was a prospect of some note back then, probably about the same time as Nady. No word on where he winds up but you'd have to figure it would be in Norfolk sooner rather than later.

Edgy DC May 01 2006 11:17 PM

If he's been floating, he'll probably go to extended spring training first to get in game shape.

Edgy DC May 04 2006 11:34 PM Edited 1 time(s), most recently on May 06 2006 12:26 AM

Tides Find What They've Been Waiting For Crane Pool Bias News Service, 5/4/05 Salvation? At hand! The Norfolk Tides began what promises without a doubt to be a season-long turnaround with a 5-1 over the Columbus Clippers and a bunch of baby wannabe Yankees. The attack was led by newest Tide Michael Tucker, playing leftfield and going 3-4 with a double in his first game for the team. Tomorrow, he'll get to look at the scoreboard and see a .750 under his name, and be happy. Also adding to the attack were Lastings Milledge and Victor Diaz, who each hit a solo homer for the triumphant Tides. Jose Lima started the game and threw two perfect innings with two strikeouts. This reporter was unable to ascertain what circumstance led to his brief workday, but he will be sorely disappointed at the first cheap-shot artist to say, "Hopefully he's hurt." He was followed by able relief from Anderson Garcia (3 IP, 0 ER), Steve Schmoll (2, 1) and Bartolome Fortunato (2, 0). Eric Duncan, who some columnist said led to the surprise of something like "all of baseball" when Lastings Milledge was picked by the Mets instead of him, played first (not third) for the Clippers and went 0-2 with a walk. He is currently hitting .235 with an Ordońezian .592 OPS. The fools will try and fail again tomorrow.

Rotblatt May 05 2006 12:08 AM

It sounds like the parent Mets requested Lima be limited to two innings. We're not bringing Lima Time to Shea instead of starting Maine again, are we? Please god no.

Gwreck May 05 2006 01:25 AM

Rotblatt wrote: It sounds like the parent Mets requested Lima be limited to two innings. We're not bringing Lima Time to Shea instead of starting Maine again, are we? Please god no. No worries. Maine officially announced as Sunday's starter before Thursday's game.

Edgy DC May 06 2006 12:38 AM Edited 1 time(s), most recently on May 06 2006 01:48 PM

Norfolk Juggernaut Rolls On Crane Pool Bias News Service, 5/5/05 It was hard to tell who Columbus Clipper Manager Dave Miley was calling from the bench when his pitcher Matt DeSalvo got in trouble Friday evening in Columbus against the visting Tidewater Tides. Was he calling pitching coach Neil Allen out in the Clipper bullpen? Or was he calling the rest of the International League managers to tell them the Norfolk Tides had arrived and were taking no prisoners. Or perhaps he was calling his parent team, to let George Steinbrenner know that the Mets have able reinforcements on the farm. All these were distinct possiblities during a thouroughly dominating 3-2 trouncing by Norfolk over the Columbus squad. The Tides doubled the Clipper hit output, 10-5, led by another home run from Lastings Milledge (his third), and six innings from Jeremi Gonzalez without yielding an earned run. Heath Bell pitched a scoreless ninth for like the 101st save of his minor-league career. Newest Tide Michael Tucker let up on the Clippers, posting merely a 1-4, which actually led his average to drop to .500. The previous night, the Mets had announced the signing of Jose Offerman to a minor league deal. Looking at the lines tearing open Miley's face in the Columbus dugout, you could read his thoughts. "They get everybody."

MFS62 May 06 2006 10:34 AM

Nice. I wonder if Suzyn Waldmann would have covered it that way on the Yankee out of town scoreboard. "dominating 3-2 win" LOL! Later

Rotblatt May 08 2006 05:08 PM

Tides lose the next two games to split their 4-game series against the MFC, falling to 9-22. 5/6 The Tides lost 4-0, wasting a strong effort by Scobie, who was locked in a pitcher's duel with MF Clipper Rasner for 7 innings. Scobie allowed 1 run (solo HR) on 5 hits and 4 walks, striking out 3, while Rasner shut down the Tides, allowing 5 hits, walking 3, and striking out 6. Lavigne was ineffective in relief, giving up 4 hits, 3 ER and 2 walks in one inning. Keppinger went 2-4, Diaz went 1-3 with a walk, and catcher Sandy Martinez went 2-2 to become just the 5th Tide to pull his average off the interstate (.210). 5/7 Miguel Perez made his second start for the Tides after his promotion from AA, and went 5+ ugly but effective innings to bring his ERA down to 7.88 as the Tides lost, 4-1. Perez 5.3 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 5 BB, 2 K, 0 HR Basak scored the lone run for Norfolk in the fifth inning. With 2 out in the inning, Basak, who reached on a FC, stole second. MF Clipper catcher Wil Nieves threw the ball into the outfield, and Melky Cabrera managed to let the ball go by him, allowing Basak to score. Lambin went 2-3 with a walk, and Diaz had 2 singles. Diaz joined Sandy in an off-road celbration tonight, as he raised his average all the way up to .222. Congratulations, Victor! Milledge is in a bit of a mini-slump, having gone 0 for his last 7 with 2 K's and no walks, although MFC reliever Bean hit him with a pitch in last night's game. His line is all the way down to: 109 AB, .312 AVG/.445 OBP/.505 SLG/.950 OPS, 8 SB, 2 CS, 19 BB, 20 K. Whadda bum. As no one else has an OPS over .700, it's really kind of amazing that we've even won 9 games. Diaz: 45 AB, .222/.286/.289/.575 Lambin (.528 OPS) continues to struggle after his breakout season, and Keppinger has struck out 8 times without walking even once since I drew attention to his "improved eye" at the plate. His new line is as follows: .266 AVG/.311 OBP/.294 SLG/.605 OPS. Ah, well.

Edgy DC May 09 2006 01:03 PM

Mud Hens Washed away by Tides Crane Pool Bias News Service, 5/5/05 Evan MacLane's golden arm helped power the Tides to victory as Norfolk beat Toledo, 6-4, on Monday at Fifth Third Field, an inevitable victory that nonetheless had Max Klinger spinning in his fictional grave. MacLane (1-0) had an dominant Triple-A debut for the Tides (10-22) as he retired the first nine batters he faced, all without a strikeout. He toyed with them... Toyed! The 23-year-old southpaw ran into some trouble in the sixth when he gave up a two-run double to Josh Phelps, but escaped with the lead. MacLane allowed three runs on three hits and a walk through seven frames. It was all good. Tim LaVigne threw the Mud Hens a bone in the ninth before collecting his first save. He gave up a run on two hits with two walks and a strikeout. Victor Diaz outclassed the competion at the plate, going 2-for-2 with a two-run homer in the first inning along with --- cowards! --- three walks. Jeff Keppinger came up big with the bases loaded in the next inning as he belted a bases-clearing double to center that gave MacLane a 5-0 lead. That's what happens when you walk the Tides, suckazz!

smg58 May 09 2006 10:11 PM

MacLane is up at Norfolk? I saw him in Binghamton a couple of weeks ago and he looked like nothing special. I guess all the pitching adjustments at the major league level have rippled through the system.

Rotblatt May 10 2006 07:57 AM

Tides lost again, 4-2. Milledge committed his first error (throwing) of the season in the bottom of the third. He continued to show his strong eye at the plate, however, drawing 2 walks on an 0-2 night. Lambin went 2-4 with his 2nd home run of the year, raising his average to .191. Basak singled twice, and Diaz & S. Martinez each went 1-4. Roman started for the Tides and got hit hard,allowing 3 runs in 3 innings on 5 hits and 3 walks. He K'ed 3. The Tides bullpen (J. Perez, 3 IP, Schmoll, 1.3 IP, Ring, .2 IP) did yeoman's work, going the remaining 5 innings, allowing only 1 run and striking out eight. The Tides have lost 3 of their last 4.

Edgy DC May 10 2006 08:22 AM

They win when I'm in the press corps.

Edgy DC May 10 2006 10:09 AM

]MacLane is up at Norfolk? Three Bingo pitchers in five days have become Tides. Ryan Cullen, Evan MacLane, and RHP Orlando Roman. It's as much a reflection of the injuries of the parent club as a reward for jobs well done.

Rotblatt May 10 2006 10:55 AM

Edgy DC wrote: They win when I'm in the press corps. Sure, rub it in, Edgy.

Edgy DC May 15 2006 12:13 PM

Evan MacLane is the winner of the International League Pitcher of the Week. W L ERA G GS CG SHO SV IP H R ER HR BB SO 2 0 0.64 2 2 0 0 0 14.0 7 3 1 1 1 16

Gwreck May 19 2006 02:17 AM

Joe Hietpas, star reliever. 1 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 1 K.

MFS62 May 19 2006 06:29 AM

Omigosh, Cris Basak has lost his role as emergency pitcher. Hieptas must be good, because Cris was unscored upon in (IIRC) six games over the prior two years. Later

Edgy DC May 19 2006 07:30 AM

Zac Clements has also mopped up this year. Too many spills to mop.

Edgy DC May 20 2006 01:20 AM

The Tides joined the Mets in gaining a ninth-inning mopup win, with help from some sloppy Mud Hens. Once and future Met Victor Diaz opened the inning by reaching on a throwing error by shortstop Don Kelly. Once and future Met Anderson Hernandez then reached on a throwing error by catcher Max St.-Pierre. Future Met Chris "Wicked Game" Basak then plated Diaz with a game-winning RBI single. Future Met (perhaps very very soon) Steve Schmoll threw 2 1/3 perfect innings for the win.

Willets Point May 22 2006 02:07 AM

I'm planning on seeing the Tides in Pawtucket on Memorial Day. Who should I be keeping my eye on?

Rotblatt May 22 2006 07:38 AM

]I'm planning on seeing the Tides in Pawtucket on Memorial Day. Who should I be keeping my eye on? There's this young outfielder called "Lastings Milledge" whom I think might be good . . . ;-) Actually, check out how he works pitchers. He's continued to draw walks, even while struggling to get hits. He's batting .277 but has a .435 OBP and a 31/35 BB/K ratio, which is pretty damn good. Tagg Bozied (1B) recently got signed and has been hot over his first 6 games--3 doubles and a HR over six innings. He's 27 and spent his career in the Padres minor league system--drafted out of college in the 3rd round 2001. He crushed AAA pitching in 2004, then it looks like he got injured in 2005--he had only 99 AB that year. He's had one cuppa, where he hit .182 with a HR and a couple walks. They're really is about it, though. Everyone else is struggling, except for MacLane & a bunch of relief pitchers. Hernandez is batting .350 but with zero power. Lambin will have a good game, then struggle for a week. Diaz is batting .242 with zero power.

Frayed Knot May 30 2006 02:41 PM

BA: Norfolk righthander Evan MacLane won his fourth game in five Triple-A starts on Monday, allowing just four hits and one run in seven innings. The southpaw got 11 groundouts in his victory, dropping his Triple-A ERA to 1.93 .

MFS62 May 30 2006 02:58 PM

="Frayed Knot"]BA: Norfolk righthander Evan MacLane won his fourth game in five Triple-A starts on Monday, allowing just four hits and one run in seven innings. The southpaw got 11 groundouts in his victory, dropping his Triple-A ERA to 1.93 . BA , get with the program. He's a lefty. LAter

Edgy DC May 31 2006 04:37 PM

The Tides beat Pawtucket 3-2 last night. Passing through waivers and throwing six scoreless innings: Jose Lima.

Frayed Knot Jun 16 2006 02:46 PM

Met fan contacts ASK BA wanting to know about Evan MacLane Q: Mets fans have been hearing about Mike Pelfrey and, to a lesser extent, Philip Humber as potential future stars in the New York rotation. However, I've noticed that a prospect I'm not familiar with, lefthander Evan MacLane, has put up very impressive AAA numbers this year and was rated by Baseball America as having the best changeup and control among Mets prospects. What can you tell me about him and his ceiling? Josh Marker - San Francisco A: MacLane has a humble draft pedigree. A 25th-round pick out of Feather River (Calif.) CC in 2003, he went 23-10, 2.74 in the lower minors and reached Double-A in mid-2005. He seemed to hit a wall there, going 3-2, 4.14 in nine starts. MacLane didn't fare any better in six starts at Binghamton this year, but he has been lights-out since arriving at Triple-A Norfolk, posting a 6-0, 2.11 mark in seven starts. His other numbers (47 innings, 42 hits, 14 walks, 33 strikeouts) aren't as impressive as his record. MacLane, 23, is a typical finesse lefthander. His mid-80s fastball and his curveball are fringy pitches most notable for his ability to locate them in the strike zone. His changeup is his best offering and he has little margin for error. He'll probably pitch in the majors but I don't see a huge ceiling. He looks more like a middle reliever than a starter to me. -- Jim Callis

Frayed Knot Jun 21 2006 10:05 AM

More MacLane: 'Southpaw Evan MacLane suffered his first Triple-A loss in seven decisions Thursday. The soft-tosser is a combined 9-2 between Binghamton and Norfolk this season. He has a career .714 win percentage (35-14)' also 'Lefty reliever Royce Ring extended his scoreless innings streak to 19 Thursday. Ring has taken over the closing role with Heath Bell’s promotion to the big leagues. His fourth save came Tuesday in 1-0 win against Pawtucket and ex-Met Matt Ginter' -- Adam Rubin

MFS62 Jun 21 2006 12:15 PM

Anyone who considers him a "soft tosser" should have to stand at home plate while that 88 MPH soft toss is aimed at his head. Later

Willets Point Jul 25 2006 02:26 PM

Bump for Tides update.

Elster88 Jul 26 2006 04:56 PM

Royce Ring: 2-0 2.76, 32.3 IP, 23 H, 15 BB, 32 K, 1.16 WHIP, 0 HR, 3 HBP

Frayed Knot Aug 19 2006 11:34 PM

Oliver Perez: 7 IP, 1 H, 2 BB, 11 K (wasn't there a bet along these lines?) - plus a perfect inning/2 K save from the newly demoted Heath Bell Doesn't sound like Williams's injury would prevent him from a next start and tonight's performance was certainly enough to earn him another go around. But if he can't go we should have 2 other choices ready for Petey's next slot (prob Fri): either Perez or Bannister (who was just on the wrong day to go this time)

Edgy DC Aug 24 2006 02:07 PM

YOU COMPLETE ME: Monday night's complete game victory for Evan MacLane was Norfolk's first complete game of the season, and first since Pat Strange hurled a nine-inning complete game on August 9, 2004. The complete game win was the first for Norfolk in 302 games, and gave MacLane his 12th win this year, the most among Mets' Minor Leaguers this season. MacLane didn't have much time to enjoy his accomplishment, as he was traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks organization on Tuesday in exchange for outfielder Shawn Green and cash considerations. MacLane made 20 starts with the Tides this season, going 9-8 with a 3.86 ERA.