Good to see Messenger come back out with a little better outing, still gave up 5 hits in three innings. Seems like he is pitchign an awful lot early here.

The Phoenix Desert Dogs have won their first five games and remain the only undefeated team in the Arizona Fall League. Phoenix scored in the seventh, eighth and ninth on their way to an 8-5 win over the Peoria Javelinas. Ryan Howard (PHI) and Donald Murphy (KC) both homered for the Desert Dogs.

 

Down 1-0 in the second inning the Desert Dogs scored twice off Javelinas’ starter Jake Dittler (CLE). An RBI single by Mike Morse (SEA) tied the game at one, and a sacrifice fly to left by Josh Barfield (SD) gave the Javelinas their first lead of the afternoon 2-1.

 

After a scoreless third inning, Phoenix took the lead back on two straight extra base hits. Casey Smith (ANA) lead off the inning with a double, and would score on a two-run home run down the left field line by Donald Murphy (KC). The home run made it 3-2 Desert Dogs. In the seventh inning after a sacrifice fly by Jeremy Hermida (FLA), Josh Baker (OAK) hit a two-out, two run double to make it 6-2 Desert Dogs.

 

A two run home run in the bottom of the eighth by Javelinas‘ catcher Ryan Garko (CLE) cut the Desert Dogs’ lead to three. The Desert Dogs came back with a home run minutes later when Ryan Howard (PHI) hit a home run to the top off the grass berm in right field, making the score 8-4 Phoenix.

 

Needing four runs in the bottom of the ninth, the Javelinas scored once, keeping the Desert Dogs’ undefeated season alive.

 

Desert Dogs 100 200 311 8 12 1

 

Javelinas 020 000 021 5 9 2

 

Desert Dogs- Obenchain, McNutt (3), Wilkerson (6), Rouwenhorst (8), Messenger (9)

 

Javelinas- Dittler, Bergmann (3), Thomas (4), Denham (7), Ramsey (8), Speihs (9)

 

W- McNutt (1-0) L- Bergmann (0-2) S-None Time: 2:52

 

GAME DATE: 10/12/04 DES at JAV

PHOENIX DESERT DGS 8 AT PEORIA JAVELINAS 5

 

YTD YTD

PHOENIX DESERT DGS AB R H BI AVG PEORIA JAVELINAS AB R H BI AVG

C.Roberson CF 4 1 2 0 .222 B.Johnson RF 5 0 1 1 .263

T.Murphy LF 4 1 2 1 .389 S.Choo CF 4 0 0 0 .455

J.Hermida RF 4 1 0 1 .286 J.Cooper LF 5 0 0 0 .263

R.Howard DH 4 2 3 2 .458 M.Huggins 1B 5 0 1 0 .286

M.Napoli 1B 4 0 0 0 .333 G.Dobbs 3B 3 2 2 0 .375

J.Baker CAT 3 0 1 2 .222 R.Garko CAT 4 2 2 2 .381

M.Teahen 3B 5 0 0 0 .188 M.Morse SS 4 0 1 1 .368

C.Smith SS 4 1 2 0 .308 P.McAnulty DH 4 0 1 0 .167

D.Murphy 2B 4 2 2 2 .286 J.Barfield 2B 2 1 1 1 .214

S.Obenchain PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 J.Dittler PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

M.McNutt PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 J.Bergmann PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

W.Wilkerson PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 J.Thomas PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

J.Rouwenhrst PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 D.Denham PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

R.Messenger PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 K.Ramsey PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

R.Spiehs PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

TOTALS 36 8 12 8 TOTALS 36 5 9 5

 

PHOENIX DESERT DGS 1 0 0 2 0 0 3 1 1- 8 12 1

PEORIA JAVELINAS 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 1- 5 9 2

E--M.Napoli, M.Huggins, R.Garko. DP--PHOENIX DESERT DGS 0, PEORIA JAVELINAS 1. LOB--PHOENIX DESERT DGS 8, PEORIA JAVELINAS 8. 2B--T.Murphy (1), R.Howard (3), J.Baker (1), C.Smith (1), D.Murphy (1), B.Johnson (1), J.Barfield (2). 3B--R.Howard (1). HR--R.Howard (3), D.Murphy (1), R.Garko (2). SB--T.Murphy (2). CS--T.Murphy. SF--T.Murphy, J.Hermida, J.Barfield.

YTD

IP H R ER BB SO HR ERA

PHOENIX DESERT DGS

S.Obenchain 2.2 3 2 2 1 3 0 3.18

M.McNutt (W,1-0) 2.1 3 0 0 0 2 0 1.69

W.Wilkerson 2.0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1.80

J.Rouwenhrst 1.0 2 2 2 0 1 1 5.40

R.Messenger 1.0 1 1 1 2 2 0 4.50

PEORIA JAVELINAS

J.Dittler 2.0 2 1 0 2 2 0 4.50

J.Bergmann (L,0-2) 1.1 4 2 2 1 0 1 4.50

J.Thomas 2.2 0 0 0 1 1 0 1.17

D.Denham 1.0 3 3 3 1 2 0 11.25

K.Ramsey 1.0 2 1 1 0 1 0 4.50

R.Spiehs 1.0 1 1 1 0 1 1 3.00

WP--K.Ramsey. BALKS--J.Dittler. SO--T.Murphy, J.Hermida, M.Napoli, J.Baker, M.Teahen, D.Murphy 2, S.Choo 2, J.Cooper, M.Huggins 3, P.McAnulty 3. BB--C.Roberson, R.Howard, M.Napoli, J.Baker 2, S.Choo, G.Dobbs, J.Barfield. T--2:52.

 

 

 

October 14, 2004 - Saguaros 14, Desert Dogs 7

 

For the first time in 2004 the Phoenix Desert Dogs lost a game. The Peoria Saguaros beat Phoenix 14-7 and pounded out 18 hits in the process. The game was close until the bottom of the sixth, when Peoria scored six runs to take the lead for good. Desert Dogs’ manager Dean Treanor (FLA) was ejected from the game for disputing whether a ball was fouled off or not.

 

Down 1-0 in the first, the Saguaros had their first three hitters score to take a 3-1 lead. A sacrifice fly by Vito Chiaravalloti (TOR) and a two-run double by Juan Senreiso (TEX) put the three runs on the scoreboard.

 

The second inning was one of two innings that neither team scored. The third inning was a different story, as the second homerun in as many days by Donald Murphy (KC) cut the Saguaros’ lead to one. Back to back doubles by Ryan Howard (PHI) and Jason Perry (OAK), along with an RBI single by Buzz Hannahan (OAK) gave the Desert Dogs the lead back at 5-3.

 

The back and forth game continued early, as Peoria came back with two runs in the bottom of the third to make the score 5-5. An RBI double by Brett Harper (NYM) and an RBI single by fellow Mets’ prospect Chase Lambin tied the game.

 

The final lead change came in the bottom of the sixth, when Vito Chiaravalloti (TOR) came to bat with the bases loaded and nobody out. A drive off the wall would clear the bases and give Peoria a 9-7 lead. The Saguaros would add five more insurance runs to seal the victory.

 

Desert Dogs 104 011 000 7 13 2

 

Saguaros 302 106 20X 14 18 3

 

Desert Dogs- Tamayo, Fulchino (3), Rice (5), Keppinger (6), Giese (7),

 

Saguaros- Rosario, Arnold (3), Delcarmen (7),

 

W- Arnold (1-0) L-Rice (0-1) Time: 3:10

 

FLA J.Hermida DH        5  1  2  0  .308 - 2 2B, K

 

10/14

Saguaros 7, Desert Dogs 0

 

Pitchers Kason Gabbard (BOS), Matt Lindstrom (NYM), Mike Johnston (PIT) and Adam Peterson (Tor) held the Desert Dogs to two hits to lead the Saguaros to to a 7-0 victory. Lindstrom earned his first win of the season.

 

The Saguaros offense scattered 11 hits including an outstanding 3-for-4 performance by Pirates prospect Freddy Sanchez. Sanchez belted a two-run home run in the eighth inning scoring Peoria's final runs of the game. He was a triple shy of hitting for the cycle.

 

Anaheim prospect Tommy Murphy had the Desert Dogs only hits. Murphy finished the day going 2-for-4. Pitcher Mike Stodolka (KC) was credited with the loss.

 

Saguaros? ? 010 013 020 7 11 0

Desert Dogs 000 000 000 0? 2 1

Saguaros: Gabbard, Lindstrom (5), Johnston (7), Peterson (9).

Desert Dogs: Stodolka, Bergman (5), Wilkerson (6), b]Messenger (8)[/b], Rouwenhorst (9)

W-Lindstrom (1-1). L-Stodolka (0-1). S-None. Time: 2:13.

 

10/15

Desert Dogs 5, Rafters 4

 

Grand Canyon had the tying run at third base in the bottom of the ninth inning with two outs, but Fred Lewis (SF) struck out to end the game and give the Phoenix Desert Dogs a 5-4 win. The game had four different lead changes and gave the Desert Dogs a lead best 6-2 record. Phoenix leadoff hitter Chris Roberson (PHI) had three hits.

 

The Desert Dogs had a threat right away in the first inning with the bases loaded and nobody out with Ryan Howard (PHI) at the plate. Howard would walk and a Nick Gorneault (ANA) groundout gave Phoenix a 2-0 lead. In the bottom of the inning hits by Kevin Thompson (NYY), Chris Shelton (DET) and Lance Niekro (SF) gave Grand Canyon a 3-2 first inning lead.

 

Phoenix came back with two runs in the top of the second to regain the lead. An RBI triple to the right field corner by Mark Teahan (KC) tied the game at three. Teahan would score on a bunt single up the first base line by Roberson to make the score 4-3 Desert Dogs.

 

After a solo home run by Shelton tied the game at four, the Desert Dogs took a 5-4 lead with a two out base hit up the middle by Omar Quintanilla (OAK) in the eighth inning.

 

 

Desert Dogs 220 000 010 5 14 1

Rafters? ? 301 000 000 4 9 3

 

Desert Dogs- Hutchinson, McNutt (2), Keppinger (4), Rice (7), Street (8)

Rafters- Durbin, Julianel (5), Rodney (7), Miner (9)

W- Rice (1-1) L- Rodney (0-2) S- Street (3) Time: 2:49

 

TM PITCHERS IP H R ER BB K HR ERAFLA T.Hutchinson 0.1 2 2 2 0 0 0 10.80

Encouraging signs from Hutchinson

Right-hander solid in first Arizona Fall League start

By Joe Frisaro / MLB.com

 

If not for a tired arm, Trevor Hutchinson would likely have gotten the call to make several critical September starts instead of Logan Kensing.

 

But Hutchinson, in camp with the Marlins early last Spring Training, was a bit run down, and the organization didn't want to chance elevating him from Double-A Carolina into the thick of the Wild Card race. So the assignment went to the rookie Kensing, who experienced some growing pains making the leap from Class A Jupiter.

 

His arm now fully recovered, Hutchinson is competing in the Arizona Fall League, pitching for the Phoenix Desert Dogs. The 25-year-old right-hander made his first start this week, and aside from surrendering a two-run homer, it was an encouraging outing.

 

Hutchinson allowed three hits over three innings, walked two and struck out two. But more important than the numbers was the fact that he threw pretty well after being off for about six weeks.

 

"The reports we got said he threw just fine," said Jim Fleming, the Marlins' vice president of player development and scouting. "He gave up a two-run homer, but other than that, he was solid."

 

As for his shoulder?

 

"It's no big deal," said Fleming. "It was more fatigue, and we shut him down."

 

The Marlins' third-round pick in the 2002 draft, Hutchinson is using the AFL experience to gain more consistency with his delivery. When his mechanics are sound, his sinker is much more effective. This is also an opportunity for him to work with Dean Treanor, the Desert Dogs manager and the Marlins' minor league pitching coordinator.

 

The offseason is the time to tweak and refine, and that's all the organization is asking of the 6-foot-5, 220-pounder, who attended the University of California at Berkeley.

 

"With him, we're not working on any new pitches," said Fleming. "We're trying to get consistency in his delivery."

 

Hutchinson throws a 93-mph fastball, a two-seam fastball (or sinker), a slider and a changeup. And though there is no guarantee he will make the Marlins in 2005, he definitely will be given a shot.

 

"Last year was his introduction to big-league camp," said Fleming. "This year there is a chance to compete for a spot."

 

Depending on the moves the Marlins make before Spring Training opens next February, Hutchinson will be in the mix to be either a fifth starter or long reliever.

 

Hutchinson is one of four pitchers from the Marlins organization playing for the Desert Dogs, who got off to a 5-1 start.

 

Mike McNutt is 1-0 with a 1.69 ERA in his first three games, giving up one run in 5 1/3 innings. Randy Messenger is 1-0 with a 4.50 ERA, allowing three runs in six innings. Jeff Fulchino gave up two runs in two innings, a 9.00 ERA, in his first outing.

 

Three Florida position players also are on the Desert Dogs. Outfielder Jeremy Hermida was hitting .286 (6-for-21) with two home runs, a double and triple through five games. Infielder Josh Wilson was 2-for-12 (.167), and outfielder Eric Reed was hitless in his first 10 at-bats.

 

Must have been written before the start.

10/16

Desert Dogs 4, Rafters 3

 

The Grand Canyon Rafters and the Phoenix Desert Dogs matched each other run for run until the bottom of the ninth inning when Eric Reed (FLA) scored on a passed ball to give the Desert Dogs a 4-3 win. Relief pitcher Randy Messenger (FLA) earned his second win of the season.

 

The Desert Dogs offense was led by Kansas City Royals prospect Mark Teahan who was a perfect 3-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored. Teahan was a home run shy of hitting for the cycle. Chris Roberson (PHI) and Jeremy Hermida (FLA) also contributed to the win with two hits apiece.

 

For the Rafters, Diamondbacks prospect Marland Williams was 2-for-5 with a double and a run scored. Chris Shelton (DET) also had two hits for Grand Canyon including a double and two RBIs.

 

Phoenix's starting pitcher Keith Bucktrot (PHI) was dominating on the mound. Bucktrot pitched four innings and allowed no runs on three hits. Grand Canyon's starting pitcher Scott Baker (MIN) also had a solid day on the mound allowing only one earned run, in four innings of work, with three strikeouts.

 

 

Rafters? ? 000 002 010 3 8 2

Desert Dogs 000 110 011 4 10 2

 

Rafters: Baker, Schmitt (5), Kirsten (7), Munter (8), Aardsma (8)

Desert Dogs: Bucktrot, Fulchino (5), Giese (6), Rouwenhorst (7), Messenger (9)

W- Messenger (2-0) L-Aardsma (0-1) S-None Time: 2:57

 

FLA J.Hermida DH 4 1 2 0 .289 - K

10/18

Scorpions 16, Desert Dogs 7

 

Five different Scottsdale Scorpions had at least three hits on their way to a 16-7 win over the Phoenix Desert Dogs. Royce Huffman (HOU) was 5-for-5 with a home run, Brian Peterson (CIN) was 4-for-5 and Rickie Weeks (MIL) was 3-for-5 with a home run for the Scorpions, who had 22 hits as a team.

 

With the game tied at one in the second inning, Weeks hit a three-run shot to left field to give Scottsdale a 4-1 lead. It was one of three home runs for the Scorpions on the day. Weeks would add two more RBIs on a bases loaded single in the bottom of the fifth scoring two of Scottsdale's three runs in the inning. Although it was only the fifth inning, Scottsdale's eight-run lead would prove to be insurmountable.

 

Phoenix scored four runs in the top of the ninth. Jason Perry (OAK) had a home run for the Desert Dogs in their third loss of the season.

 

 

Desert Dogs 100 200 004? 7 10 1

Scorpions? 043 131 22X? 16 22 0

 

Desert Dogs- Obenchain, Bergmann (3), Rice (5), Giese (7), Messenger (8)

Scorpions-Sarfate, Childress (5), Coffey (7), Schultz (9)

W- Coffey (2-0) L- Obenchain (0-1) Time: 2:48

 

10/19

Scorpions 5, Desert Dogs 3

 

The usually strong Phoenix Desert Dogs offense did not score until the bottom of the sixth inning, as the Desert Dogs fell to the Scottsdale Scorpions, 5-3. Scottsdale shortstop Tommy Whiteman (HOU) was 5-for-5 with four singles and a double. Phoenix, who won their first five games of the season, has now lost four out of their last six.

 

A soft RBI single to right field in the third inning by Rickie Weeks (MIL) made it 1-0 Scorpions. Weeks would score on a double off the left field wall by Whiteman. The Scorpions took a 3-0 lead on the road when a Brian Peterson (CIN) single off leaping shortstop Omar Quintanilla's (OAK) glove scored Corey Myers (ARI).

 

Down by three in the bottom of the seventh, a two-run home run over the right field wall by Jason Perry (OAK) cut the Scottsdale lead to one. The Scorpions would add an insurance run in the eighth on an RBI triple to left-center field by Los Angeles' prospect Jason Repko. The two-run cushion is all that Scorpions' closer Jason Bulger (AZ) would need for his third save of the season.

 

 

Scorpions? 002 101 010 5 13 1

Desert Dogs 000 001 200 3? 5 2

Scorpions- Moseley, Stetter (3), McLemore (5), Farmer (7), Bulger (9)

Desert Dogs- Tamayo, Keppinger (4), McNutt (5), Rouwenhorst (7), Wilkerson (8), Street (9)

W- McLemore (2-0) L- Tamayo (0-1) S- Bulger (3) Time: 2:38

10/20

Desert Dogs 12, Javelinas 8

 

The Desert Dogs sent 14 hitters to the plate in the fifth inning, driving in 10 runs on 10 hits in the 12-8 come from behind victory over the Javelinas. Anaheim Angels prospect Nick Gorneault sparked the offensive attack with two hits in the inning.

 

Peoria jumped on top early when Kevin Kouzmanoff (CLE) hit a solo shot over the 410 mark in center field. The Javelinas would add runs in the second and forth innings to give Peoria a 7-0 lead. They would add one more run in the ninth in their final attempt to even the score.

 

For the Javelinas, Josh Barfield (SD) was tops with three hits, one run scored and three RBIs. Starting pitcher Seung Song (MON) pitched 4.1 innings allowing only three runs, six hits and four strikeouts.

 

Desert Dogs Mark Teahen (KC), Omar Quintanilla (OAK) and Casey Smith (ANA) each added two hits in the fifth inning rally. Quintanilla added three RBIs in the win. Giese earned his first win behind 2.2 innings pitched with one hit and three strikeouts.

 

 

Javelinas 130 3 0 0 001 8 8 1

Desert Dogs 000 0 10 0 02x 12 15 0

 

Javelinas: Song, Thomas (5), Forystek (6), Spiehs (8)

Desert Dogs: Fulchino, Rice (4), Giese (4), Wilkerson (6), Messenger (9)

W- Giese (1-0). L- Thomas (1-1). S- None. Time: 2:31.

TM PLAYERS AB R H BI AVGFLA E.Reed LF 4 2 2 1 .174 - 2B

10/21

Desert Dogs 4, Javelinas 2

 

The visiting Phoenix Desert Dogs scored in three of their first four innings to beat the Peoria Javelinas 4-2. Rain showered the field during the first hour of play, and after five innings the game was shortened because of a pattern of stronger rain. The Desert Dogs had chances to put the game away early, leaving nine runners on base in the five innings.

 

Phoenix third baseman and third hitter Mark Teahen (KC) was 3-for-4 with a double, and leadoff hitter Tommy Murphy (ANA) was 2-for-4 with two RBIs. Kevin Kouzmanoff (CLE) was 2-for-2 with a double in the loss for the Javelinas. There were no home runs hit in the game.

 

 

Desert Dogs 120 10 4 9 0

Javelinas 000 02 2 5 0

 

Desert Dogs- Stodolka, Rouwenhorst (5)

Javelinas- Stahl, Stockman (4)

W- Rouwenhorst (1-0) L- Stahl (0-2) S- None Time: 2:00

 

GAME DATE: 10/21/04 DES at JAV

PHOENIX DESERT DGS 4 AT PEORIA JAVELINAS 2

 

YTD YTD

PHOENIX DESERT DGS AB R H BI AVG PEORIA JAVELINAS AB R H BI AVG

T.Murphy CF 4 0 2 2 .378 S.Choo LF 3 0 0 0 .333

D.Murphy 2B 3 0 0 0 .194 P.McAnulty DH 3 1 1 1 .286

M.Teahen 3B 4 1 3 0 .417 K.Kouzmanoff 3B 2 0 2 1 .405

R.Howard DH 2 0 1 0 .383 R.Garko 1B 2 0 0 0 .357

N.Gorneault RF 2 0 0 0 .344 E.Whiteside CAT 3 0 0 0 .385

J.Perry LF 3 0 0 0 .294 C.Keylor RF 2 0 1 0 .261

M.Napoli CAT 2 2 1 0 .258 M.Morse SS 2 0 0 0 .324

O.Quintanlla SS 3 0 2 0 .333 J.Barfield 2B 2 1 1 0 .323

B.Hannahan 1B 3 1 0 0 .214 J.Owens CF 1 0 0 0 .292

M.Stodolka PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 R.Stahl PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

J.Rouwenhrst PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 L.Stockman PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

TOTALS 26 4 9 2 TOTALS 20 2 5 2

 

PHOENIX DESERT DGS 1 2 0 1 0 0- 4 9 0

PEORIA JAVELINAS 0 0 0 0 2 0- 2 5 0

DP--PHOENIX DESERT DGS 0, PEORIA JAVELINAS 0. LOB--PHOENIX DESERT DGS 9, PEORIA JAVELINAS 6. 2B--M.Teahen (3), P.McAnulty (1), K.Kouzmanoff (5). SB--B.Hannahan (2), J.Barfield (2), J.Owens (2). HBP--N.Gorneault.

YTD

IP H R ER BB SO HR ERA

PHOENIX DESERT DGS

M.Stodolka 4.2 4 2 2 2 5 0 1.86

J.Rouwenhrst (W,1-0) 0.1 1 0 0 1 1 0 5.14

PEORIA JAVELINAS

R.Stahl (L,0-2) 3.2 8 4 4 1 2 0 9.00

L.Stockman 2.0 1 0 0 2 0 0 3.18

HB--L.Stockman. WP--M.Stodolka, R.Stahl 2. SO--T.Murphy, B.Hannahan, S.Choo, P.McAnulty 2, R.Garko, E.Whiteside 2. BB--D.Murphy, R.Howard, M.Napoli, K.Kouzmanoff, R.Garko, J.Owens.

T--2:00. A--30

 

No Marlins.

 

Marlins watching young hurlers

By Joe Frisaro / MLB.com

 

Arizona Fall League numbers can be deceiving, especially for pitchers.

 

Even before the offseason league assembled a few weeks ago, it was generally regarded that the pitching would be behind the hitting. That's because many of the minor leaguers who participate in the AFL hadn't thrown since August or early September.

 

The Marlins want some of their minor league hurlers to use the AFL to get some extra work, refine their deliveries and perfect their arsenal of pitches.

 

Four such prospects are playing for the Phoenix Desert Dogs, who have won of seven of their first 11 games.

 

Randy Messenger and Mike McNutt are two right-handers worth tracking.

 

Messenger, an 11th-round pick in the 1999 First-Year Player Draft, is 2-0 with a 9.00 ERA, having tossed six innings of relief. He has given up 11 hits, and six of his nine runs allowed are earned. He's struck out four and walked two.

 

Messenger had a solid season pitching for Double-A Carolina in the Southern League. He was 6-3 with a 2.58 ERA, competing in 58 games and compiling 69 2/3 innings. A closer for the Mudcats, he struck out 71 and walked 29.

 

"We're trying to find a consistent arm slot for him," said Jim Fleming, the Marlins' vice president for player development and scouting. "Also, we're looking to see if his slider will be his second pitch."

 

Messenger also is working on his changeup.

 

McNutt is off to a 1-0 start with a 3.48 ERA in the AFL. In five relief appearances, he yielded four earned runs in 10 1/3 innings. The Marlins' 25th-round pick in 2000 is definitely getting work and being tested. He has had to work out of trouble, allowing 14 hits while walking nine. He has struck out six.

 

McNutt opened the season in Double-A but saw most of his action in Triple-A Albuquerque, where he was 2-1 with a 5.08 ERA. In 12 relief appearances, he pitched 28 1/3 innings, striking out 19 while walking five.

 

"McNutt is kind of a jack of all trades," said Fleming. "He's been a starter and a reliever. He has been up and down."

 

In addition to Messenger and McNutt, both of whom will likely be in Spring Training with the Marlins, the organization is keeping close tabs on right-hander Trevor Hutchinson.

 

Hutchinson, one of the team's top pitching prospects, was in Spring Training with the Marlins in 2004 before spending the entire season in Double-A.

 

Hutchinson's arm tired late in the season, and he was shut down in late August. The Marlins would likely have called him up for their grueling September schedule had his arm not been fatigued. Instead the team promoted Class A right-hander Logan Kensing, who lost three starts in the final weeks.

 

In the AFL, Hutchinson has made two relief appearances. He hasn't been involved in a decision, and his ERA is 10.80 (four runs in 3 1/3 innings).

 

More than the numbers, the Marlins want Hutchinson to perfect his delivery, which should improve his sinker.

 

Jeff Fulchino, another right-hander, also is getting some work in Arizona. The eighth-round pick in 2001 has appeared in three games, tossing 5 1/3 innings without a decision. His ERA is 10.13 because he's allowed six earned runs, including two homers, with three walks and three strikeouts.

Season stats so far:

W-L Record: 9- 4 

BATTERS	G	AB	R	H	TB	2B	3B	HR	RBI	SH	SF	HP	BB	IB	SO	SB	CS	DP	AVG	OBP	SLG	
*Hermida, Jeremy	10	42	7	11	21	4	0	2	6	1	1	0	2	0	14	3	0	1	.262	.289	.500	
*Reed, Eric	5	23	3	4	5	1	0	0	2	0	0	0	0	0	7	0	0	0	.174	.174	.217	
Wilson, Josh	4	12	3	2	7	0	1	1	1	0	0	0	2	0	1	0	0	0	.167	.286	.583	

PITCHERS	W-L	SV	ERA	G	GS	CG	SHO	GF	AB	TBF	IP	H	R	ER	BB	IB	SO	HR	HB	WP	
Fulchino, Jeff	0- 0 	0	10.80	4	1	0	0	0	30	38	8.1	10	10	10	4	0	5	3	2	0		
Hutchinson, Trevor	0- 0 	0	10.80	2	2	0	0	0	15	16	3.1	5	4	4	0	0	1	1	1	0		
McNutt, Mike	1- 0 	0	3.48	5	0	0	0	0	43	52	10.1	14	4	4	9	0	6	1	0	2	
Messenger, Randy	2- 0 	0	9.00	7	0	0	0	4	34	37	7.0	12	10	7	2	0	5	2	0	0	

Games by Pos.	1B	2B	3B	SS	OF	C	E		
*Hermida, Jeremy	0	0	0	0	7	0	1 	
*Reed, Eric	0	0	0	0	5	0	1 	
Wilson, Josh	0	3	0	1	0	0	0

10/22

Solar Sox 4, Desert Dogs 2

 

The Solar Sox jumped ahead early when lead off hitter Joey Gathright (TB) got on base with a double and stole third making way for a Brian Anderson (CWS) RBI single. The Solar Sox would add insurance runs in the fourth, sixth and ninth innings to secure a 4-2 lead over the Desert Dogs.

 

Keith Bucktrot (PHI) was outstanding on the mound for the Desert Dogs. Bucktrot pitched 5.2 innings, the longest outing for any starting. He allowed three earned runs while fanning seven. Mark Teahen (KC), Ryan Howard (PHI) and Carlos Ruiz (PHI) had two hits apiece for Phoenix. The Desert Dogs would leave 12 runners on base in the loss.

 

Anderson led the Solar Sox offense with three hits including a home run. He recorded three RBIs and scored twice. Gathright finished with two doubles and two runs scored. Pitcher Russ Rohlicek (CHC) earned his first win. Ryan Speier (COL) notched his first save.

 

 

Solar Sox? 100 101 001 4 7 2

Desert Dogs 000 010 100 2 10 1

 

Solar Sox: Ryu, Rohlicek (4), Walton (6), Speier (8)

Desert Dogs: Bucktrot, Keppinger (6), Cali (7), Messenger (8)

W- Rohlicek (1-1). L- Bucktrot (0-1). S- Speier (2). Time: 2:32

 

GAME DATE: 10/22/04 SOL at DES

MESA SOLAR SOX 4 AT PHOENIX DESERT DGS 2

 

YTD YTD

MESA SOLAR SOX AB R H BI AVG PHOENIX DESERT DGS AB R H BI AVG

J.Gathright CF 4 2 2 0 .364 C.Roberson CF 5 0 0 0 .235

C.Sullivan LF 3 0 0 0 .160 T.Murphy LF 5 1 2 0 .381

D.Young DH 4 0 0 0 .250 M.Teahen 3B 3 1 2 0 .450

B.Anderson RF 4 2 3 3 .238 R.Howard 1B 5 0 2 1 .375

C.Duncan 1B 4 0 1 0 .270 J.Hermida RF 5 0 1 1 .275

J.Nelson SS 3 0 0 0 .152 D.Murphy 2B 4 0 1 0 .200

C.Slavik 3B 3 0 0 1 .313 J.Perry DH 4 0 0 0 .263

G.Soto CAT 4 0 0 0 .185 C.Ruiz CAT 4 0 2 0 .308

J.Nix 2B 3 0 1 0 .250 C.Smith SS 4 0 0 0 .282

C.Rogowski LF 1 0 0 0 .391 N.Gorneault PR 0 0 0 0 .351

P.Lopez PR 0 0 0 0 .308 J.Baker CAT 0 0 0 0 .167

J.Ryu PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 K.Bucktrot PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

R.Rohlicek PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 B.Keppinger PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

S.Walton PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 R.Messenger PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

C.Cali PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 H.Street PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

R.Speier PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

TOTALS 33 4 7 4 TOTALS 39 2 10 2

 

MESA SOLAR SOX 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1- 4 7 2

PHOENIX DESERT DGS 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0- 2 10 1

E--C.Duncan, C.Slavik, D.Murphy. DP--MESA SOLAR SOX 0, PHOENIX DESERT DGS 0. LOB--MESA SOLAR SOX 4, PHOENIX DESERT DGS 12. 2B--J.Gathright 2 (3), M.Teahen (4), J.Hermida (6). HR--B.Anderson (2). SB--J.Gathright 2 (11), T.Murphy (5), M.Teahen (1). CS--J.Nix. HBP--J.Nelson. SF--C.Slavik.

YTD

IP H R ER BB SO HR ERA

MESA SOLAR SOX

J.Ryu 3.0 5 0 0 1 2 0 3.38

R.Rohlicek (W,1-1) 2.0 1 1 1 1 2 0 5.00

S.Walton 1.2 1 1 1 0 1 0 5.06

C.Cali 0.2 2 0 0 0 0 0 6.75

R.Speier (S,2) 1.2 1 0 0 0 2 0 5.87

PHOENIX DESERT DGS

K.Bucktrot (L,0-1) 5.2 5 3 3 0 7 1 2.30

B.Keppinger 2.0 1 0 0 0 1 0 3.86

R.Messenger 0.2 1 1 0 0 1 0 8.22

H.Street 0.2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.96

HB--R.Messenger. SO--C.Sullivan, D.Young 3, C.Duncan, J.Nelson 2, C.Slavik, G.Soto, C.Roberson, T.Murphy, M.Teahen, R.Howard, J.Perry, C.Ruiz, C.Smith. BB--M.Teahen 2. T--2:33. A--154

 

10/23

Desert Dogs 11, Solar Sox 1

 

The Desert Dogs drove in 11 runs on 15 hits to hand the Solar Sox their eighth loss in Mesa. All nine Desert Dogs had at least one hit, however only four players scored runs. Eric Reed (FLA) went 3-for-5 with a triple, a walk, two runs scored and a stolen base. Anaheim infield prospect Casey Smith ended 3-for-5 with a walk, four runs scored and two RBIs. Royals' prospect Mark Teahen finished a perfect 1-for-1 with four walks and three runs scored. Nick Gorneault (ANA) added a home run with three RBIs and two runs scored in the win.

 

Mesa's offense stranded 12 runners, while the pitchers walked eight Desert Dogs batters. Brian Dopirak (CHC) was perfect at the plate with three hits and scored Mesa's lone run. Rockies' infield prospect Jayson Nix finished 2-for-4 with an RBI.

 

Phoenix pitchers combined for nine strikeouts and held the Solar Sox scoreless through seven inning of work. Michael McNutt was credited with the win. McNutt's record improves to 2-0.

 

 

Desert Dogs? 103 301 030 11 15 1

Solar Sox? ? 000 000 010? 1 10 2

 

Desert Dogs: Obenchain, McNutt (5), Rice (7), Wilkerson (8), Street (9)

Solar Sox: Wainwright, Flinn (4), Cavazos (6), Bajenaru (7), Smith (8), McClellan (9)

W- McNutt (2-0). L- Wainwright (0-0). S- None. Time: 2:51

 

GAME DATE: 10/23/04? DES at SOL

PHOENIX DESERT DGS 11 AT MESA SOLAR SOX? 1?

? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?

? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? YTD? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? YTD

PHOENIX DESERT DGS AB? R? H BI? AVG? MESA SOLAR SOX? ? AB? R? H BI? AVG

E.Reed CF? ? ? ? ? 5? 2? 3? 0? .250? J.Gathright LF? ? ? 2? 0? 1? 0? .350?

C.Smith SS? ? ? ? ? 5? 4? 3? 2? .314? C.Sullivan PR? ? ? 0? 0? 0? 0? .182?

M.Teahen 3B? ? ? ? 1? 3? 1? 1? .432? C.Sullivan LF? ? ? 2? 0? 1? 0? .182?

R.Howard DH? ? ? ? 4? 0? 1? 2? .373? A.Greenberg DH? ? ? 5? 0? 0? 0? .259?

N.Gorneault LF? ? ? 5? 2? 2? 3? .351? R.Gorecki RF? ? ? ? 5? 0? 1? 0? .438?

J.Hermida RF? ? ? ? 4? 0? 2? 3? .283? B.Anderson CF? ? ? 4? 0? 0? 0? .184?

M.Napoli 1B? ? ? ? 4? 0? 1? 0? .257? B.Dopirak 1B? ? ? ? 3? 1? 3? 0? .268?

J.Brown CAT? ? ? ? 5? 0? 1? 0? .200? G.Johnson CAT? ? ? 3? 0? 1? 0? .235?

D.Murphy 2B? ? ? ? 5? 0? 1? 0? .195? R.Cedeno 3B? ? ? ? 4? 0? 0? 0? .242?

S.Obenchain PIT? ? 0? 0? 0? 0? .000? J.Nix 2B? ? ? ? ? ? 4? 0? 2? 1? .243?

M.McNutt PIT? ? ? ? 0? 0? 0? 0? .000? P.Lopez SS? ? ? ? ? 4? 0? 1? 0? .308?

S.Rice PIT? ? ? ? ? 0? 0? 0? 0? .000? A.Wainwright PIT? ? 0? 0? 0? 0? .000?

W.Wilkerson PIT? ? 0? 0? 0? 0? .000? C.Flinn PIT? ? ? ? 0? 0? 0? 0? .000?

H.Street PIT? ? ? ? 0? 0? 0? 0? .000? A.Cavazos PIT? ? ? 0? 0? 0? 0? .000?

? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? J.Bajenaru PIT? ? ? 0? 0? 0? 0? .000?

? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? M.Smith PIT? ? ? ? 0? 0? 0? 0? .000?

? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? Z.McClellan PIT? ? 0? 0? 0? 0? .000?

TOTALS? ? ? ? ? ? 38 11 15 11? ? ? ? TOTALS? ? ? ? ? ? 36? 1 10? 1

 

PHOENIX DESERT DGS? 1 0 3? 3 0 1? 0 3 0-11 15? 1

MESA SOLAR SOX? ? ? 0 0 0? 0 0 0? 0 1 0- 1 10? 2

E--J.Brown, B.Anderson, G.Johnson. DP--PHOENIX DESERT DGS 1, MESA SOLAR SOX 1. LOB--PHOENIX DESERT DGS 9, MESA SOLAR SOX 12. 2B--J.Hermida (5), B.Dopirak (2). 3B--E.Reed (1), M.Teahen (3). HR--N.Gorneault (1). SB--E.Reed (1), J.Hermida (4), J.Gathright (9). SF--R.Howard.

? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? YTD

? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? IP? H? R? ER? BB? SO? HR? ? ERA

PHOENIX DESERT DGS

S.Obenchain? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? 4.0? 2? 0? 0? 2? 3? 0? ? 6.94

M.McNutt (W,2-0)? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? 2.0? 2? 0? 0? 1? 2? 0? ? 2.92

S.Rice? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? 1.0? 2? 0? 0? 1? 1? 0? ? 8.68

W.Wilkerson? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? 1.0? 3? 1? 1? 0? 0? 0? ? 1.74

H.Street? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? 1.0? 1? 0? 0? 0? 3? 0? ? 1.04

MESA SOLAR SOX

A.Wainwright (L,0-1)? ? ? ? ? ? 3.0? 6? 4? 4? 4? 4? 0? ? 5.23

C.Flinn? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? 2.0? 4? 3? 3? 0? 2? 0? ? 8.10

A.Cavazos? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? 1.0? 2? 1? 1? 2? 3? 0? ? 3.97

J.Bajenaru? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? 1.0? 0? 0? 0? 0? 0? 0? ? 9.00

M.Smith? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? 1.0? 2? 3? 3? 2? 1? 1? ? 2.89

Z.McClellan? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? 1.0? 1? 0? 0? 0? 0? 0? ? 5.40

WP--A.Cavazos, M.Smith. SO--R.Howard 3, N.Gorneault 3, M.Napoli 3, J.Brown, C.Sullivan, A.Greenberg 2, R.Gorecki 2, B.Anderson, G.Johnson, R.Cedeno 2. BB--E.Reed, C.Smith, M.Teahen 4, J.Hermida, M.Napoli, C.Sullivan, B.Anderson, B.Dopirak, G.Johnson. T--2:51.

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/basebal...-sports-marlins

Reed off to slow start in AFL

By Mike Berardino

Sun-Sentinel

Posted October 24 2004

 

Scouts who have seen Marlins Class A outfielder Jeremy Hermida believe he might not be much more than a year or two away from the majors.

 

Hermida is one of the youngest players in the Arizona Fall League, yet he was hitting .262 with two homers and six RBI in 42 at-bats.

 

Even closer to the majors is Double-A outfielder Eric Reed, who missed much of last year after breaking his wrist in a bar fight. But Reed, on the taxi squad with the Phoenix Desert Dogs, was batting just .174 with seven strikeouts in 23 at-bats. Scouts say his speed and game are comparable to Juan Pierre's.

 

Triple-A shortstop prospect Josh Wilson, who could be Alex Gonzalez's replacement in 2006, was out with a pulled rib-cage muscle, while the pitchers were struggling even worse.

 

Double-A right-hander Trevor Hutchinson, who the team hoped might compete for the fifth starter's spot next spring, had a 10.80 ERA through his first two starts. Double-A closer Randy Messenger, who could get a shot at the big league bullpen, was 2-0 with a 9.00 ERA in seven outings.

 

Lesser prospects Mike McNutt (3.48 ERA in five outings) and Jeff Fulchino (10.80 ERA in four outings) round out the Marlins' AFL presence.

Pretty lame stuff so far. :|

10/25

Desert Dogs 11, Rafters 8

 

A late three-run rally by the Grand Canyon Rafters was not enough as the Phoenix Desert Dogs won 11-8 in a battle of the National Division. Kansas City Royals prospect Donald Murphy gave a perfect 4-for-4 performance including a double, three RBIs and two runs scored.

 

The game was won in the fifth inning when the Desert Dogs sent 11 batters to the plate. They scored six runs on six hits, with two walks, a sacrifice fly and a sacrifice bunt. Casey Smith (ANA) and Ryan Howard (PHI) had three hits apiece. Smith scored once while Howard drove in two and scored twice.

 

For the Rafters, Kevin Thompson (NYY), Jason Bartlett (MIN), Jeff Francoeur (ATL), Curtis Granderson (DET) and Chris Shelton (DET) led the way with two hits apiece.

 

 

Desert Dogs 110 061 020 11 19 1

Rafters 121 010 003 8 15 1

Desert Dogs: Tamayo, Keppinger (4), Wilkerson (5), Messenger (7), Rice (9), Street (9).

Rafters: McBride, Coenen (5), Rodnesy (5), Begg (7), Munter (8), Aardsma (9).

W- Keppinger (3-0). L-Coenen (0-3). S-Street (4). Time: 3:05.

 

GAME DATE: 10/25/04 DES at RAF

PHOENIX DESERT DGS 11 AT GRAND CNYN RAFTERS 8

 

YTD YTD

PHOENIX DESERT DGS AB R H BI AVG GRAND CNYN RAFTERS AB R H BI AVG

C.Roberson CF 6 2 2 0 .250 J.Bartlett SS 5 2 2 0 .345

C.Smith SS 5 1 3 0 .318 K.Thompson LF 3 2 2 2 .319

M.Teahen 3B 4 1 2 1 .455 K.West LF 1 1 1 0 1.000

R.Howard DH 4 2 3 2 .400 C.Granderson CF 5 0 2 1 .375

N.Gorneault LF 3 1 0 0 .325 C.Shelton DH 5 2 4 2 .479

J.Hermida RF 5 1 1 1 .268 L.Niekro 3B 4 0 1 0 .250

D.Murphy 2B 4 2 4 3 .265 J.Francoeur RF 5 0 2 3 .353

J.Baker CAT 4 0 2 1 .227 M.Jones 1B 3 1 1 0 .325

B.Hannahan 1B 4 1 2 2 .250 B.McCann CAT 5 0 0 0 .320

D.Tamayo PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 R.Raburn 2B 4 0 0 0 .194

B.Keppinger PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 M.McBride PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

W.Wilkerson PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 M.Coenen PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

R.Messenger PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 L.Rodney PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

S.Rice PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 C.Begg PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

H.Street PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 S.Munter PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

D.Aardsma PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

TOTALS 39 11 19 10 TOTALS 40 8 15 8

 

PHOENIX DESERT DGS 1 1 0 0 6 1 0 2 0-11 19 1

GRAND CNYN RAFTERS 1 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 3- 8 15 1

E--C.Smith, J.Bartlett. DP--PHOENIX DESERT DGS 2, GRAND CNYN RAFTERS 2. LOB--PHOENIX DESERT DGS 9, GRAND CNYN RAFTERS 9. 2B--R.Howard (7), D.Murphy (2), J.Baker (2), B.Hannahan (2), C.Granderson (3), C.Shelton (7), J.Francoeur (5). SB--C.Roberson (3), K.Thompson (4). CS--J.Francoeur. SF--M.Teahen, R.Howard, D.Murphy. SH--C.Smith.

YTD

IP H R ER BB SO HR ERA

PHOENIX DESERT DGS

D.Tamayo 3.0 6 4 4 2 4 0 7.94

B.Keppinger (W,3-0) 1.0 2 1 1 1 2 0 4.26

W.Wilkerson 2.0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1.46

R.Messenger 2.0 2 0 0 0 1 0 6.52

S.Rice 0.1 5 3 3 0 0 0 11.17

H.Street (S,4) 0.2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0.90

GRAND CNYN RAFTERS

M.McBride 4.0 6 2 1 0 6 0 5.87

M.Coenen (L,0-3) 0.2 4 6 6 1 0 0 10.00

L.Rodney 1.1 5 1 1 1 0 0 6.55

C.Begg 1.0 1 0 0 1 0 0 7.15

S.Munter 1.0 3 2 2 1 0 0 4.35

D.Aardsma 1.0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1.59

BALKS--D.Tamayo. SO--C.Roberson, M.Teahen 2, R.Howard, N.Gorneault 2, B.Hannahan, J.Bartlett 3, C.Granderson, C.Shelton, J.Francoeur, M.Jones, B.McCann 2. BB--N.Gorneault 2, J.Baker, B.Hannahan, K.Thompson, L.Niekro, M.Jones 2. T--3:05.

 

10/26

Desert Dogs 15, Rafters 3

 

The Desert Dogs capitalized on three Rafters errors in the first inning on their way to a 15-3 win. Omar Quintanilla (OAK) was brilliant at the plate with a 5-for-5 performance including an RBI and a run scored. Starting pitcher Mike Stadolka (KC) earned his first win of the season. The southpaw threw five innings allowing only one run on four hits.

 

Royals prospect Mark Teahen added two big hits for Phoenix, a double and a home run. He drove in four runs and scored four times. Jeremy Hermida (FLA) finished 3-for-5 with two runs scored in the Desert Dogs win. The bullpen of Michael McNutt (FLA), Dan Giese (PHI) and Brian Bass (KC) held the Rafters offense to only two runs in four combined innings.

 

Yankees prospects Kevin Thompson and Mitch Jones led the Rafters at the plate. Thompson had three hits, with two doubles. Jones added two hits for Grand Canyon.

 

 

Rafters 001 002 000 3 9 6

Desert Dogs 410 215 20x 15 16 0

 

Rafters: Marsonek, Julianel (5), Kirsten (6), Crain (7)

Desert Dogs: Stadolka, McNutt (6), Giese (8), Bass (9)

W- Stadolka (1-1). L- Marsonek (1-1). S-None. Time: 2:34

10/27

Desert Dogs 8, Javelinas 6

 

A fifth inning grand slam by Jeremy Hermida (FLA) was the key hit in an 8-6 Desert Dogs' win over the Javelinas in Peoria. With a strong wind blowing out to left field, the Desert Dogs hit two home runs, the other a solo home run by Tommy Murphy (ANA) in the first inning.

 

Peoria had a lead in the second inning when Ben Johnson (SD) tripled off the top of the left field wall scoring Jerry Owens (MTL) and Dave Wallace (CLE). But six runs over the next three innings by the Desert Dogs, including the grand slam by Hermida, gave Phoenix the lead back for good.

 

Mark Teahen (KC) entered the game the Arizona Fall League's leading hitter, and went 2-for-5 in the win. Eric Reed (FLA) was also 2-for-5 for Phoenix.

 

A ninth inning threat by the Javelinas came up short. Three singles by Peoria put the tying run on base, but Randy Messenger (FLA) struck out pinch hitter Jason Cooper (CLE) to end the game.

 

 

Desert Dogs 101 140 010 8 10 0

Javelinas 020 030 001 6 12 1

 

Desert Dogs- Fulchino, Rouwenhorst (5), Keppinger (6), Glese (8), Messenger (9)

Javelinas- Stahl, Stockman (4), Villatoro (6), Forystek (7), Baker (8), Ramsey (9), Denham (9)

W- Keppinger (4-0) L- Stockman (0-1) S-Messenger (1) Time: 3:12

 

FLA E.Reed CF 5 1 2 1 .273 - 2 SB

10/28 - Rained out

 

10/29

Saguaros 10, Desert Dogs 2

 

A disastrous seventh inning for the Phoenix Desert Dogs allowed the Saguaros to score nine runs on their way to a 10-2 win in Peoria. Ten consecutive Saguaros reached base with two outs in the seventh, chasing reliever Randy Messenger (FLA) from the game. The rally spoiled a good start by Phoenix right-hander Keith Bucktrot (PHI) who pitched 5.1 innings and allowed only two hits.

 

Both Phoenix runs came in the top of the first inning. Throwing errors on back to back plays by Peoria fielders gave the Desert Dogs two quick runs and an early lead. Peoria's first of ten runs scored when Wayne Lydon (NYM) went to third on a throw into center field after stealing second base. Center fielder Chris Roberson (PHI) bobbled the throw and Lydon scored standing up.

 

Two Toronto prospects led the way for the Saguaros offensively. John Hattig was 2-for-3 with two walks and Vito Chiaravalloti was 2-for-5.

 

 

Desert Dogs 200 000 000 2 12 5

Saguaros 000 001 90X 10 13 2

 

Desert Dogs- Bucktrot, Wilkerson (6), Rouwenhorst (6), Messenger (7), Rice (7)

Saguaros- Hudgins, Gabbard (5), Deaton (7), Lindstrom (9) W- Deaton (1-1) L- Rouwenhorst (1-1) S- None Time: 2:43

 

10/30

Desert Dogs 4, Saguaros 3

 

In a game of cat and mouse, Kansas City Royals prospect Mark Teahen ended the chase with a two-run single in the bottom of the 11th inning, handing Phoenix a 4-3 win. The Desert Dogs' record improved to 14-6, and they remain in first place in the National Division with a 5.5 game lead.

 

The Desert Dogs were held scoreless through seven innings of play behind the dominating pitching of Bobby Bradley (PIT), Jeremy Harts (PIT) and Matt Lorenzo (TEX). Bradley threw five innings of two-hit ball with seven strikeouts. Rangers prospect Jason Botts and Mets prospect Brett Harper had four hits apiece leading the Saguaros offense. Freddy Sanchez (PIT) and Harper each had a home run for Peoria.

 

Jeremy Brown (OAK) was the lone Desert Dogs batter to have more than one hit. Brown finished a perfect 2-for-2, including a home run and two RBIs. Pitcher Dan Giese (PHI) notched his second win of the season.

 

 

Saguaros 000 110 000 01 3 13 0

Desert Dogs 000 000 020 02 4 8 0

 

Saguaros: Bradley, Harts (6), Lorenzo (7), Bannister (8), Miller (9), Delcarmen (11).

Desert Dogs: Obenchain, McNutt (5), Keppinger (7), Bass (8), Street (9), Giese (11).

W-Giese (2-0). L-Delcarmen (0-1). S-None. Time: 2:37.

 

10/31 - Off day

11/1

Rafters 12, Desert Dogs 4

 

Chris Shelton's (DET) three-run home run in the first inning gave Grand Canyon an early 3-0 lead. Mike Cervenak (SF) would follow suit with a three-run shot in the third and Curtis Granderson (DET) would add a two-run bomb in the fourth on the way to a 12-4 win over Phoenix. Jesse Crain (MIN) earned his first win of the season behind two innings of no-hit baseball.

 

The Desert Dogs had just eight hits for the day. Omar Quintanilla (OAK) was a perfect 2-for-2 with a double and a run scored. Tommy Murphy (ANA) was the only other hitter to have a multiple hit game. Murphy was 2-for-5 with an RBI. Designated hitter Donald Murphy (KC) hit a solo shot. He finished 1-for-3.

 

Tony Pena Jr. (ATL) and Yobal Duenas (NYY) each had a solid game for Grand Canyon. At the plate, Pena was 3-for-5 with a double and two runs scored. Duenas finished 2-for-4 with two doubles, two runs scored and an RBI. The Rafters gain a game on the Desert Dogs with the win.

 

 

Desert Dogs 001 020 100 4 8 0

Rafters 304 200 30x 12 13 0

 

Desert Dogs: Tamayo, Rice (4), Bergman (6), Messenger (7), Rouwenhorst (8)

Rafters: McBride, Coenen (5), Munter (6), Crain (8)

W- Crain (1-0). L-Tamayo (0-2). S-None. Time: 2:27

 

11/2

Rafters 12, Desert Dogs 6

 

San Francisco prospect Mike Cervenak's three-run home run in the third inning gave Grand Canyon an early lead. Three more home runs off the bats of Detroit teammates Chris Shelton and Ryan Raburn secured a 12-6 win for the Rafters. Grand Canyon cut the Desert Dogs lead to 3.5 in the National Division.

 

Cervenak led the Rafters offense with four hits including a double, home run and four RBI. Shelton added three hits including a home run, three RBIs and two runs scored. Raburn blasted two solo shots to finish 2-for-5. Pitcher Chris Begg (SF) earned his first win behind 2.2 innings of work. Begg allowed one run on two hits.

 

For the Desert Dogs, Omar Quintanilla (OAK) had two hits with an RBI and a run scored. Angels prospect Tommy Murphy was the only other batter to have a multiple hit game. Jason Perry (OAK) blasted a solo shot, his fourth of the season.

 

 

Rafters 013 103 040 12 17 2

Desert Dogs 002 100 021 6 11 1

 

Rafters: Miner, Begg (3), Julianel (6), Woodyard (8), Aardsma (9)

Desert Dogs: Stodolka, McNutt (4), Keppinger (6), Giese (8), Bass (9)

W-Begg (1-0). L-Stodolka (1-2). S-None. Time: 3:08

 

11/3

Desert Dogs 9, Solar Sox 4

 

Pitchers Jeff Fulchino (FLA), Dusty Bergman (ANA) and Wes Wilkerson (KC) led the Desert Dogs to a 9-4 win behind stellar pitching performances. The trio combined for seven innings of shutout ball. Fulchino pitched four innings of one-hit ball. Bergman followed with two innings and allowed only two hits to earn his second win of the season. Wilkerson added a no-hit seventh inning for Phoenix.

 

Ryan Howard (PHI) broke through for the Desert Dogs with two hits including a double and drove in three runs. Angels prospect Nick Gorneault scored two runs on three walks. Mark Teahen (KC) followed suit with two runs on two free passes. Jason Perry (OAK) and Eric Reed (FLA) each had a multiple-hit game in the win. Cubs prospect Adam Greenberg led the Solar Sox with three hits. Cory Sullivan (COL) added two hits with an RBI and a run scored while Brian Dopirak (CHC) and Chris Duncan (STL) each had a double and an RBI for Mesa.

 

 

Solar Sox 000 000 040 4 9 5

Desert Dogs 101 212 20x 9 10 0

 

Solar Sox- Ryu, Henderson (4), Walton (5), Rohlicek (6), Cali (9).

Desert Dogs- Fulchino, Bergman (5), Wilkerson (7), Messenger (8), Rouwenhorst (9).

W-Bergman (2-0). L-Ryu (1-3). S-None. Time: 3:00.

FLA E.Reed CF 6 1 2 1 .273 - 2 SB

11/4

Desert Dogs 6, Solar Sox 5

Three consecutive ninth-inning errors by the Mesa Solar Sox gave the Phoenix Desert Dogs a 6-5 come-from-behind win. Phoenix scored in each of the last three innings off Mesa's bullpen. Desert Dogs third baseman Mark Teahen (KC) was 2-for-5 in the win.

 

Phoenix manager Dean Treanor (FLA) was ejected in the sixth inning.

 

Down, 1-0, in the bottom of the first, the Solar Sox came back with four runs. An RBI double by Reid Gorecki (STL) tied the game and a three-run home run by fellow Cardinals prospect Chris Duncan gave Mesa a 4-1 lead.

 

A two-run top of the seventh inning cut the Mesa lead to one. Two bases-loaded walks made the score 5-4 Solar Sox. Phoenix left the bases loaded in the seventh, missing a chance to tie the game or take the lead, but a sacrifice fly by Buzz Hannahan (PHI) in the eighth tied the game at five.

 

The ninth inning began with an error on a dropped line drive by Mesa second baseman Ronny Cedeno (CHC). The Phoenix runner, Chris Roberson (PHI), then stole second base and went to third when the throw went into center field. Roberson would score to give Phoenix the lead on the third error in two batters when Cedeno dropped a high chopper.

 

Desert Dogs 101 000 211 6 9 1

Solar Sox 401 000 000 5 4 4

Desert Dogs -- Bucktrot, Rice (2), Bass (3), Keppinger (6), Street (8)

Solar Sox -- Thompson, Smith (4), Bajenaru (6), Speier (8)

W: Street (1-0); L: Speier (0-1); Time: 3:00

Top Fish prospect swimming in AFL

Hermida gets his at-bats in against tougher pitching

By Joe Frisaro / MLB.com

Participating in the Arizona Fall League has numerous benefits for prospects.

 

Off the top of his head, Marlins vice president of player development and scouting Jim Fleming quickly reels off three reasons why prized minor leaguer Jeremy Hermida will improve from his AFL experience.

 

"These games will replace the at-bats he missed because of his pulled hamstring," Fleming said of Hermida's injury-shortened regular season. "And the pitching he is facing in Arizona gives him a little more of a Double-A slant. Also, this exposes him to good players in the league."

 

Hermida missed a chunk of the season at Class A Jupiter because of an aggravated hamstring, reducing him to 91 games. When in the lineup, he was productive, batting .297 on 340 at-bats with 10 home runs and 50 RBIs.

 

For the Desert Dogs, Hermida has already compiled 78 at-bats, and he carried a .269 average after 18 games.

 

With a few more weeks left in the AFL season, Hermida likely will hit about 150 times. Add that to his regular-season totals, and he will get about 500 overall at-bats.

 

The Marlins' first-round pick in 2002, Hermida is a left-handed-hitting outfielder and expected to open 2005 at Double-A Carolina. From there, his next step will be determined by production. There is a chance he could see his first Major League action sometime in 2005. But he is considered 1 1/2 years away from being ready for the big leagues.

 

In Arizona, Hermida is getting a taste of pitchers at Double-A and Triple-A levels.

 

For the most part, the Marlins' top minor league prospect is holding his own.

 

After an early AFL hot stretch, Hermida's numbers have tailed off a bit. He has three home runs and 16 RBIs with 13 runs scored and a .500 slugging percentage.

 

What's troubling the Georgia native are off-speed pitches.

 

Fleming said Hermida has been a bit anxious, and at times he is getting fooled by breaking pitches and changeups.

 

"They are pitching backwards to him," Fleming said.

 

Instead of starting Hermida off with fastballs, pitchers are being more crafty. Adjusting to the higher level of pitching is the next challenge for Hermida.

 

To remain effective, Hermida needs to show more patience and not chase or rush swiping at pitches.

 

The Marlins' organization has several players on the Desert Dogs, including center fielder Eric Reed.

 

Because he is recovering from a broken wrist, Reed is considered a taxi-squad player, meaning he can only play on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

 

After a slow start, Reed is batting .263 through eight AFL games. One of the fastest players in the Marlins' organization, the left-handed hitter has swiped four bases.

 

 

11/5

Desert Dogs 7, Scorpions 2

In a preview of the possible championship game, starting pitcher Steve Obenchain (OAK) pitched a gem for the for the Desert Dogs and led them to a 7-2 victory over the Scorpions. Obenchain pitched six innings of three-hit ball and earned his first win. Relief pitcher Michael McNutt (FLA) earned his first save in three innings of work. The win gives the Desert Dogs the best record in the league.

 

Phillies' prospects Ryan Howard and Buzz Hannahan led the offense with three hits apiece. Howard went 3-for-4 with two doubles and scored two runs. Hannahan went 3-for-5 and scored once. Catching prospect Mike Napoli (ANA) hit a two-run home run and Jason Perry (OAK) added a solo shot.

 

For the Scorpions Rickie Weeks (MIL), Jason Repko (LA) and James Loney (LA) led all batters with a multiple hit game. Repko and Conor Jackson (AZ) scored the only runs for Scottsdale.

 

Desert Dogs 012 000 3107 13 0

Scorpions 000 000 1012 7 2

Desert Dogs: Obenchain, McNutt (7)

Scorpions: Moseley, Gothreaux (3), McLemore (6), Coffey (7), Bulger (9)

W-Obenchain (1-1). L-Moseley (0-1). S-McNutt (1). Time: 2:19.

 

GAME DATE: 11/05/04 DES at SCP

PHOENIX DESERT DGS 7 AT SCOTTS. SCORPIONS 2

 

YTD YTD

PHOENIX DESERT DGS AB R H BI AVG SCOTTS. SCORPIONS AB R H BI AVG

C.Roberson CF 4 0 1 0 .254 R.Weeks 2B 4 0 2 0 .359

C.Smith 2B 4 1 1 0 .324 T.Whiteman SS 3 0 0 0 .348

M.Teahen 3B 5 0 1 0 .397 J.Repko LF 4 1 2 0 .284

R.Howard 1B 4 2 3 0 .389 C.Jackson DH 3 1 1 0 .366

M.Napoli CAT 4 1 1 3 .245 J.Loney 1B 4 0 2 0 .342

J.Hermida RF 5 1 0 0 .239 R.Huffman 3B 2 0 0 1 .229

B.Hannahan DH 5 1 3 0 .269 B.Peterson CAT 4 0 0 0 .381

J.Perry LF 5 1 2 2 .288 C.Jimerson RF 3 0 0 0 .250

O.Quintanlla SS 3 0 1 1 .387 A.Gwynn CF 3 0 0 0 .150

S.Obenchain PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 D.Moseley PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

M.McNutt PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 J.Gothreaux PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

M.McLemore PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

T.Coffey PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

J.Bulger PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

TOTALS 39 7 13 6 TOTALS 30 2 7 1

 

PHOENIX DESERT DGS 0 1 2 0 0 0 3 1 0- 7 13 1

SCOTTS. SCORPIONS 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1- 2 7 3

E--C.Roberson, T.Whiteman, J.Loney, R.Huffman. DP--PHOENIX DESERT DGS 1, SCOTTS. SCORPIONS 2. LOB--PHOENIX DESERT DGS 11, SCOTTS. SCORPIONS 5. 2B--R.Howard 2 (14). 3B--R.Weeks (1). HR--M.Napoli (2), J.Perry (5). CS--R.Weeks, T.Whiteman. SF--O.Quintanlla, R.Huffman. SH--C.Roberson.

YTD

IP H R ER BB SO HR ERA

PHOENIX DESERT DGS

S.Obenchain (W,1-1) 6.0 3 0 0 1 5 0 4.15

M.McNutt (S,1) 3.0 4 2 2 2 1 0 4.98

SCOTTS. SCORPIONS

D.Moseley (L,0-1) 2.0 3 1 1 2 2 1 1.69

J.Gothreaux 3.0 3 2 2 0 3 1 4.74

M.McLemore 1.1 2 2 1 2 3 0 7.63

T.Coffey 1.2 4 2 2 0 1 0 2.76

J.Bulger 1.0 1 0 0 0 1 0 4.50

BALKS--D.Moseley. PB--B.Peterson. SO--C.Roberson 2, M.Teahen 2,

R.Howard, M.Napoli 2, J.Hermida, B.Hannahan, J.Perry, J.Loney,

B.Peterson, C.Jimerson, A.Gwynn 3. BB--C.Smith, R.Howard, M.Napoli,

O.Quintanlla, T.Whiteman, C.Jackson, R.Huffman. T--2:18.

You can listen to the Desert Dogs' Friday game from MLB.com Radio's archive. Just click the link on the right.

http://mlb.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/mlb/radio/mlb_radio_index.jsp

 

The next Desert Dogs broadcast will be November 15th against the Peoria Sanguaros (Red Sox, Mets, Pirates, Rangers and Blue Jays prospects).

10/6

Scorpions 9, Desert Dogs 4

In a rematch between the two first place teams, Brewers' prospect Rickie Weeks pounded a three-run home run, his sixth of the season, in the second inning leading the Scorpions to a 9-4 win over Phoenix. Scottsdale's bullpen held the Desert Dogs to only six hits in the final frames to secure the win.

 

Diamondbacks' prospect Corey Myers and Dodgers' prospect Russ Martin added two hits apiece. Myers scored three runs, while Martin drove in two and scored once. Pitchers Tom Farmer (LA), John Novinsky (MIL), Mike Schultz (AZ), Justin Wechsler (AZ) and Steve Schmoll (LA) were the driving force for the Scorpions win as they shut out the Desert Dogs in six combined innings. Farmer notched his first win of the season.

 

Omar Quintanilla (OAK) was brilliant at the plate connecting for four hits and driving in two Desert Dogs' runs. Eric Reed (FLA), Casey Smith (ANA) and Jeremy Brown (OAK) each had a multiple hit game. Reed scored twice and drove in two runs. Brown scored one run for Phoenix.

 

 

Scorpions 061 011 000 9 10 0

 

Desert Dogs 130 000 000 4 14 3

Scorpions: Burns, Farmer (4), Novinsky (6), Schultz (7), Wechsler (8), Schmoll (9).

Desert Dogs: Tamayo, Bergman (4), Giese (6), Messenger (8), Wilkerson (9).

W-Farmer (1-0). L-Tamayo (0-3). S-None. Time: 2:40.

 

SCOTTS. SCORPIONS 9 AT PHOENIX DESERT DGS 4

 

YTD YTD

SCOTTS. SCORPIONS AB R H BI AVG PHOENIX DESERT DGS AB R H BI AVG

K.Howard 2B 4 1 1 1 .421 E.Reed CF 3 2 2 2 .298

R.Weeks DH 5 1 2 3 .362 J.Perry PH 1 0 0 0 .278

J.Repko RF 4 0 1 0 .282 J.Perry LF 1 0 0 0 .278

C.Jackson LF 3 1 0 0 .353 O.Quintanlla SS 5 0 4 2 .418

J.Loney 1B 5 1 1 0 .333 J.Hermida DH 5 0 1 0 .237

C.Myers 3B 3 3 2 0 .306 R.Howard 1B 5 0 1 0 .380

R.Martin CAT 4 1 2 2 .341 N.Gorneault RF 4 0 0 0 .271

D.Pedroia SS 4 0 0 0 .279 C.Smith 3B 5 0 2 0 .329

M.Williams CF 3 1 1 0 .318 J.Wilson 2B 5 0 1 0 .176

M.Burns PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 J.Brown CAT 3 1 2 0 .421

T.Farmer PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 C.Roberson PR 0 0 0 0 .254

J.Novinsky PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 J.Baker CAT 0 0 0 0 .259

E.Stults PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 T.Murphy LF 2 1 1 0 .343

J.Wechsler PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 T.Murphy CF 0 0 0 0 .343

S.Schmoll PIT 0 0 0 0 .000 D.Tamayo PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

D.Bergman PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

D.Giese PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

R.Messenger PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

W.Wilkerson PIT 0 0 0 0 .000

TOTALS 35 9 10 6 TOTALS 39 4 14 4

 

SCOTTS. SCORPIONS 0 6 1 0 1 1 0 0 0- 9 10 0

PHOENIX DESERT DGS 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0- 4 14 3

E--E.Reed, C.Smith, D.Tamayo. DP--SCOTTS. SCORPIONS 1, PHOENIX DESERT DGS 2. LOB--SCOTTS. SCORPIONS 5, PHOENIX DESERT DGS 12. 2B--K.Howard (3), C.Myers (7), R.Martin (3), E.Reed (3), J.Brown (2), T.Murphy (3). HR--R.Weeks (6). SB--M.Williams (4), E.Reed (7). HBP--J.Repko. SH--K.Howard, C.Myers.

YTD

IP H R ER BB SO HR ERA

SCOTTS. SCORPIONS

M.Burns 3.0 8 4 4 0 3 0 7.20

T.Farmer (W,1-0) 2.2 2 0 0 0 1 0 8.49

J.Novinsky 0.1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0.00

E.Stults 1.0 1 0 0 0 0 0 6.17

J.Wechsler 1.0 1 0 0 2 2 0 1.23

S.Schmoll 1.0 2 0 0 1 2 0 1.26

PHOENIX DESERT DGS

D.Tamayo (L,0-3) 3.0 5 7 5 1 1 1 12.46

D.Bergman 2.1 3 2 2 1 2 0 9.26

D.Giese 1.2 2 0 0 0 2 0 5.17

R.Messenger 1.0 0 0 0 1 1 0 13.83

W.Wilkerson 1.0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1.23

HB--D.Tamayo. WP--J.Wechsler, D.Tamayo. SO--K.Howard 2, R.Weeks,

J.Repko, C.Jackson, J.Loney, R.Martin, J.Perry, J.Hermida 3, R.Howard 2, N.Gorneault, J.Wilson. BB--C.Jackson 2, M.Williams, N.Gorneault, J.Brown, T.Murphy 2. T--2:40.

 

Josh Wilson makes his return to the lineup while Eric Reed has a big day.