Syracuse out-slugged Scranton/Wilkes-Barre 14-6 on Thursday, led by a three-run homer and four RBI from 1B Josh Whitesell (box). LF Marvin Lowrance was 2/4 with a double, two walks & three runs scored; RF Kevin Mench was 1/3 with a walk, run & RBI; 2B/3B Seth Bynum was 2/5 with a stolen base, two runs & two RBI; and 3B/RF Chase Lambin was 2/4 with a double, run & RBI. This was more that enough offense for RHP Collin Balester who picked up his first win of the season, despite allowing five runs on eight hits and a walk over 5 1/3IP. RHP Zech Zinicola gave up a run on a hit over 2 1/3IP while striking out two and LHP Doug Slaten allowed two hits and a walk over 1 1/3IP. Notes: Syracuse activated IF Luis Ordaz from the disabled list.
Today: RHP Shairon Martis (0-0, 6.75) at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre 7:05PM
Harrisburg rallied for two runs in the bottom of the ninth with Mike Daniel scoring on a wild pitch as the Senators walked off with a 6-5 in their home opener (box/gamer). Daniel wa 1/4 with the winning run; 2B Michael Martinez was 2/5 with a double & run scored; CF Leonard Davis was 2/5 with two runs & one RBI; and LF Bill Rhinehart was 2/4 with a homer and three RBI. LHP Tom Milone gave up four runs on seven hits and two walks over 4 2/3IP while striking out four; LHP Victor Garate struck out three over 2 1/3 scoreless innings and RHP Adam Carr picked up the win allowing a run on one hit over two innings of work.
Today: New Britain at Harrisburg RHP Stephen Strasburg (1-0, 1.80) 7PM
Potomac rallied to tie the game at 4-4 in the ninth and took a 6-4 lead in the top f the tenth, but LHP Clayton Dill allowed three runs on three hits and two walks in the bottom of the inning as the P-Nats fell 7-6 to Winston-Salem (box/gamer). RHP Brad Peacock started, gave up two runs on five hits and two walks over 5 1/3IP while striking out six; LHP Evan Bronson surrendered two runs on four hits over 1 2/3IP; and RHP Martin Beno struck out four over two innings of work. 1B Tyler Moore was 3/4 with a double, triple, run & two RBI; 3B Tim Pahuta was 2/5 with a double & RBI; RF Michael Burgess was 1/4 with three runs scored; and CA Brian Peacock was 1/4 with a double, stolen base & run scored.
Today: Potomac RHP Patrick Lehman (0-0, 9.00) at Wilmington 7:05PM
Hagerstown scored four runs in the bottom of the fourth leading to a 4-2 victory over Lakewood (box/gamer). RHP Trevor Holder scattered nine hits and two runs over 4 1/3IP while striking out five; LHP Glenn Gibson picked up the win with two scoreless innings of relief; RHP Patrick Arnold pitched in with 1 2/3 shutout innings and RHP Dean Weaver earned the save with a scoreless ninth. 2B Francisco Soriano was 1/3; CF Eury Perez was 1/3 with a stolen base; LF Destin Hood was 1/4 with a double, run & RBI; CA Adrian Nieto was 1/4 with a run scored; 3B Steve Souza was 1/3 with a double & run; and RF Marcus Jones was 1/3 with a double & two RBI.
Today: Hagerstown LHP Jack McGeary (0-0, 3.60) at Delmarva 7:05PM
#1 by Jake - April 16th, 2010 at 07:51
Brian – Where is Derek Norris?
#2 by Brian Oliver - April 16th, 2010 at 07:57
@Jake – Injured at Potomac. He had some nerve irritation in the wrist he injured in the fall
#3 by estuartj - April 16th, 2010 at 08:40
I’m still reading my Across the Affiliates one game at a time, I have to savor it, ‘cus it tastes SOOOOO GOOOOD!
#4 by Sec 204 Row H Seat 7 - April 16th, 2010 at 08:40
A comment and question. McGeary’s start tonight is almost as interesting as Strasburgs. Hope he continues to improve as Smoker to my disappointment appears to be done. Also, Marrero appears to be off to a slow start.
Brian, what is the status of Brad Meyers and where do you think he will pitch when he is fully recovered?
#5 by cjrugger - April 16th, 2010 at 09:24
Sec204- Agreed, I’m more interested in McGeary. Trying to be patient with Smoker, but its getting harder and harder
#6 by Scott - April 16th, 2010 at 09:35
Disappointing start to the year I’d say. I think, among other problems, the Nationals really haven’t proven an ability to develop talent. Now, it’s great that we actually have guys in place now to IDENTIFY talent, but it would also help to be able to develop those guys as well.
The only bright spot early on, for me, is that Burgess has only 4 strikeouts to go with 4 walks. Unfortunately he, like the entire rest of our system, hasn’t shown any power. If the only way for the Nats to minimize his glaring weakness (missing too many pitches) is to also minimize his biggest strength (shortening his swing and sapping his power) than that’s not real good for a RF.
In any case, it would be nice to have seen somebody, ANYBODY, who’s an actual prospect get off to a good start (besides Strasburg and Storen, of course). But that’s hoping for a lot if you’re a Nats fan, I guess.
#7 by Mark - April 16th, 2010 at 09:57
Is anyone dusting off the Rhinehart Mafia machine yet? Not a bad start so far. Stay tuned!
#8 by Souldrummer - April 16th, 2010 at 10:21
@Mark We can’t be seduced by Rhinehart. He’s done this movie before and he must be exhibit A for AAAA. I’m glad that we have some guys like this because you want to see our pitching inventory rack up some wins and our minor league franchises contend for their fanbases, but thankfully we have a large commitment to a 1B in Adam Dunn that will block him for this year.
Now if Dunn gets traded, bring Rhinehart up the next day.
#9 by Souldrummer - April 16th, 2010 at 10:24
@Sec 204 McGeary getting it right would be a very, very welcome development because out of all of our under the radar prospects it seems he’s got the highest starter’s upside after Strasburg.
I’m about done with Marerro. Not saying he won’t make it, but I just don’t see a difference making ceiling for him. I think that he might evolve into a major leaguer but the power numbers seem to be dropping when they should be rising.
#10 by Andrew F. - April 16th, 2010 at 10:26
Outside of Norris (who needs to show last year was legitimate), there are really no exciting bats in the system. Interested to see what Hood can do, but there’s just no power anywhere and nothing to get excited about.
#11 by Souldrummer - April 16th, 2010 at 10:29
It would be great for the psyche of the system if Espinosa could rake in Harrisburg when he comes back. He’s basically the best position player we’ve got now, right?
Hood’s just light years away. I think he’s on schedule but he has so many more mountains to climb.
#12 by Kirkie - April 16th, 2010 at 10:31
I really don’t understand everyone who says that Marrero is done – they just simply don’t understand.
What is he – 22? 23?
He had a cup of coffee in AA last year; held his own, and has started off well this year (yes, well – his first 5 games were good and he’s suffered from a 1-9 in his last 2).
Scouts rave about his ability to put bat on ball; claim he has plus power to all fields (I’ve heard plus-plus), and his defence at 1B is by all accounts tremendously improved this year.
I see him as a .270 / .350 / .450 hitter at MLB level in a few years, and could probably handle a 1B platoon next year in the event that Dunn isn’t there.
I don’t understand the need to bash him so much – he’s progessing slower than people hoped, but he’s far from done.
#13 by Souldrummer - April 16th, 2010 at 10:39
@Kirkie I think we’re actually agreed with what Marerro can be. He’s kind of like Desmond in that regard. We were sold on him very early because the franchise has no depth in position players and we are so desperate for hope. Basically, where I’m at is that he isn’t the brightest offensive hope in the system now. He hasn’t been offensive player of the year and Espinosa has passed him on the list. You want him to be ready to possibly fill in for Dunn next year if the contract talks don’t go well and that’s not where he’s at. He’s 2-3 years away from being a good competent major leaguer, but I don’t see him being the difference maker “the one” on offense who is home grown and raking.
Basically, I’m looking for one homegrown hope to complement Zimmerman. Don’t care who. Don’t care where. And from all signs that kind of player would have to be acquired by trade because we haven’t done it on the big board offensively. Zimmerman matches Wright. But where’s the Reyes? Zimmerman matches Longoria. But where’s the Upton? It’s the 2nd prospect behind Zimmerman on the offensive side that’s needed and I don’t see where it comes from.
#14 by Souldrummer - April 16th, 2010 at 10:40
I have to remember that it’s early and are two best offensive prospects are injured. I am also down today because of the Caps debacle. Yikes!
#15 by e - April 16th, 2010 at 10:41
Marrero will be 22 in July. I haven’t given up on him.
Rhinehart had a very difficult year last year, but has smoked the ball very well so far this season (6 of his 8 hits are for extra bases). Interesting to note that he’s now playing mostly in LF this season.
And even though Burgess’ power hasn’t emerged yet this season, I have been greatly impressed by his patience at the plate. 4 walks to 4 k’s in 30 AB’s is great for Burgess. I think his power will come back once he gets more games in him. Of course, this is all based on looking at numbers and not seeing him in person, so if anyone has watched any of his games could verify or detract from this, please do …
#16 by e - April 16th, 2010 at 10:43
“It’s the 2nd prospect behind Zimmerman on the offensive side that’s needed and I don’t see where it comes from.”
I think it’ll be Derek Norris.
#17 by Andrew F. - April 16th, 2010 at 10:47
Marrero’s trending to be around a 20 HR bat. With no defense to speak of, it’s hard to plug him in at 1B or LF and be content. He can’t play anywhere else.
#18 by Souldrummer - April 16th, 2010 at 10:48
@e Yeah, it is kind of sky is falling day for me on the Caps side and I let the slow starts comment get me down. Norris and Espinosa are the offensive hopes right now. I wish there were more than that, but until we get it right in the international market we’re going to be weaker in that area I suppose.
#19 by Souldrummer - April 16th, 2010 at 10:49
@AndrewF Bingo!!!
#20 by Paul - April 16th, 2010 at 10:51
nice new stadium Senators, now if you could only learn how to keep the bathrooms clean
#21 by Mark - April 16th, 2010 at 11:11
No doubt, Souldrummer. History suggests he’s a very streaky hitter, with 2009 being his worst year to date. He was uprooted from first to outfield, but I believe that’s his natural position (works in his favor) who can sub at first base. He came in first or second in RBI totals in the AFL in ’08, but I think he’s an organizational type player who provides occasional excitement among “Rhinehart Mafia” fans from the ‘07 & ‘08 campaign (I am guilty). He cooled off in ’09 and I believe has hit his ceiling at AA. I still like him, though – a real solid all around player, if not spectacular. He just needs more consistency at this level. Maybe 2010 will be his year (??) But labeling him a AAAA player without a cup of coffee is premature, IMO. When he hits (and maintains) his stride, he could definitely play in the Bigs.
#22 by cass - April 16th, 2010 at 11:23
Good to see a few Ws.
Anyone heard whether the Senators will try to get the game in tonight? The weather doesn’t look good. Gotta make a decision on whether to rent a car and head up to Harrisburg tonight, and it’s looking like a tough call.
#23 by Scott - April 16th, 2010 at 11:29
What worries me about Marrero is the lack of doubles. If he was smacking doubles all over the place, I might believe the “plus-plus” power people keep pointing to, thinking that he would turn those doubles into HR at some point in his development. But he doesn’t hit a lot of doubles, he hits a moderate amount of doubles and home runs. I don’t know where his development will proceed from here.
I would focus on his pitch recognition and plate discipline at this point. His best chance at being an above average major leaguer might be turning himself into a .290/.380/.470 type guy like a Nick Johnson-lite or Youkilis-lite.
#24 by Souldrummer - April 16th, 2010 at 11:34
@Mark I am having such a bad day and didn’t read properly. I was talking about Whitesell, not Rhinehart. Rhinehart’s an organizational guy who is good for minor league fans, committed to his dream, and you root for to progress to AAA.
Don’t know what’s up with me today.
#25 by Berndaddy - April 16th, 2010 at 12:09
Souldrummer let’s be honest if your a Caps fan you woke up numb or haven’t woken up at all. Oy that was a nasty game last night.
I’d like to say that it’s nice to read that A.Nieto’s bat is cooking. Hagerstown’s got a some players on the team. M.Jones, E.Perez and let’s not forget D.Hood. It would be nice to see that bunch come up throught the system strong. A dream, maybe but let’s hope, eh…
#26 by tyrusray367 - April 16th, 2010 at 14:31
Who am I?
I hit .269 .327 .365 at 3 levels at age 21.
I hit .277 .407 .551 last year in the bigs at age 27.
It’s not time to hit the panic button on Marrero yet people.
#27 by Moe Greene - April 16th, 2010 at 14:43
You’re TyrusRay367. The player to whom you are referring is Adrian Gonzalez.
I agree, while Marrero may not be the second coming of Frank Thomas, I’m not sure we know exactly where his ceiling lies.
I’ll ask a question someone asked earlier in this thread (and I asked last week). Where is Brad Meyers and when can we expect him to pitch again?
#28 by peric - April 16th, 2010 at 14:59
Marerro’s range and fielding at first make him suspect. He appears to be a far worst athlete than Dunn. He seems to be more of a DH than Dunn or Willingham. Making the potential Harper pick seem all the more attractive to the Nats FO? But given the dearth of strong starting pitching in the majors at this point?
#29 by peric - April 16th, 2010 at 15:01
Nice to see Trevor Holder pitching and improving with each start. He’s a battler. He’ll likely end up as the ace on this staff. Just needs to do a better job with sink and pitch selection.
#30 by Pilchard - April 16th, 2010 at 15:15
Not sure if this is going to make people feel better about Marrero (who was the 15th pick in the 2006 draft), but I just took a look at the 2006 MLB draft, and there was a huge drop off after the #14 pick that year. Among the players drafter before Marrero were:
And 11 of the top 14 picks, have appeared in MLB.
However, after Marrero, the rest of the first round went like this:
Of that group, only Bard and Kennedy have had meaningful time in the Majors, and of the rest, only Drabek is considered an elite prospect. So, as not as if the Nats blew the Marrero pick because a bunch of studs were drafted right after CM was taken.
#31 by Kirkie - April 16th, 2010 at 15:19
Apparently Marrero’s defense is much improved this year.
And I don’t think Holder is pitching well and improving with each start – last night’s line looked UGLY. 9 hits in 4.1 innings? Lucky to get away with 2 runs.
I’ve heard his fastball is straight with no secondary stuff : does anyone have a scouting report for him? He was by all accounts a big overdraft.
#32 by Sue Dinem - April 16th, 2010 at 15:42
@Kirkie – Link in name will tell you my very brief impressions of Holder. I’ll have more on him if/when he’s promoted to Potomac and I get a longer look at him. So far, though, it’s Adam Carr redux.
#33 by Sec 204 Row H Seat 7 - April 16th, 2010 at 16:30
Guys, I only said Marrero appears to be off to a slow start. Sheesh. Sue or anyone–Brad Meyers?
#34 by Moe Greene - April 16th, 2010 at 16:54
Sec 204 – I think we were replying to Souldrummer with regards to Marrero.
#35 by Kirkie - April 16th, 2010 at 17:19
Brian – I hear you’ve got the press passes – congrats! http://www.federalbaseball.com/2010/4/16/1425737/washington-nationals-offer-press
#36 by Souldrummer - April 16th, 2010 at 18:45
@Pilchard Does help a little bit if 2006 was a weak draft year. I guess the true deal would be to look at grades and projectability for guys who came after him rather than who is in the majors so far. It’s not that we’re expecting him to be MLB ready now or next year, it’s just that it’s hard to see the progress right now. I’m rooting for the dude, but I try to have low expectations and get surprised.
The Nats have strong incentives to oversell their prospects in the nature of the plan. We’ve got an average system and they want us to believe their loaded.
#37 by Sue Dinem - April 16th, 2010 at 23:22
@sec204 – MASN reported last week that Meyers was still working through muscle spasms last week and predicted he’d be placed in Harrisburg.
@Souldrummer – You’ve touched upon two longstanding complaints of mine: 1) BA’s flippancy when it comes to its status as kingmaker 2) The impatience/entitlement of Washington Nationals “fans”
#38 by Souldrummer - April 16th, 2010 at 23:31
@Sue Are you saying that I’m impatient? Or are you saying other elements of the fan base are? Marrero’s story kind of makes me realize how long the path to the majors is for even the most hyped prospects. I’m rooting for him, but I am also trying to manage my expectations appropriately.
@all Sounds like McGeary had a nice start tonight for Hagerstown. Anyone listen to the game or get a chance to watch? McGeary’s progress to some successful time in the Carolina League would be a major boon for the organization.
Here’s his line for tonight: Player McGeary (W, 1-0) 6.0IP 4H 2R 2BB 3SO 3 1HR 3.27
#39 by Sue Dinem - April 17th, 2010 at 09:03
@SD – I’m referring to the people who constantly b!tch, whine, moan and complain about the Nats’ lack of success. It was actually my first post for NationalsProspects.com (link in name) because I felt like it was something I had to put out there from Day One. You’re still here in April; these “fans” mostly show up in the offseason.
As for Marrero, when he starts showing power to the right-center gap again, I think people can (re)start the Adrian Gonzalez comparisons. But the kid is not even 22 and lost half a season of development time in ‘08, so calling him done for is not only premature, it’s downright ignorant.
#40 by Souldrummer - April 17th, 2010 at 12:27
@therealSD Thanks for the clarification. I will always be a Marerro fan, meaning that I am rooting for him to do well. I remember taking a high school student to see the PNats in Frederick and he was acknowledging us and tossed a ball to the student I was with. He passed it to a young kid sitting next to us and one high schooler jaded to baseball and married to basketball had a new appreciation for the game. Marrero seems like quality peoples who enjoys the game and deserves some success.
The flip side is that the Nationals want to market B- level prospect performance as hope for a radical difference in the fortunes of the franchise and I have to basically ratchet down anything StanK says about our prospects. The whole Balester, Marquis, Mock group seems to be heading for middle reliever or AAAA status at best. I’m still positive on Stammen due to his ground balls, but even there my expectations were dampened by his latest start.
I just don’t want to get into the wait ’til next year stuff that this franchise can devolve in by constantly stating the plan. I want to look under every nook and cranny of the system and celebrate and take joy in every real sign of hope as it happens and for as long as it happens. Derek Norris’ offensive numbers were such a sign as hope. But until he repeats it, I’m not going to be counting on him or slotting him for anything and will renew that hope with Pudge’s hot start instead.
I just want to see steady incremental progress and have a few legit signs of starting for a contender hope. So far, in the minors injuries have set us back. Marrero’s sophomore injury was a real crusher. In the majors good luck, defense, and Pudge has pushed us forward a baby step.
Thanks for the link and I’ll check it out.
–SD
#41 by Kike - April 18th, 2010 at 18:03
Wow!! what a game…in Maryland..the Suns win a thriller in 12 innings…JP Ramirez has his groove back…another 2 run homer…good to see him showing he belongs in Hagerstown….
#42 by Kike - April 18th, 2010 at 18:03
Oh forgot the score Suns win 9-7