Chris Jones Ks 8 in Drive win

5/31 Cup of Coffee: On Wednesday, Columbus defeated Pawtucket 8-4. Kason Gabbard (4-2) started and tok the loss. He went 5 1/3 innings giving up 4 runs on 4 hits and 4 BB. He had 4 Ks. Mike Burns went 1 1/3 innings. He gave up 4 runs on 5 hits and a BB. He had 1 K. Edgar Martinez threw 1 1/3 scoreless innings. He allowed 2 hits and had 1 K. Bryan Corey threw a perfect inning recording 2 Ks. Jacoby Ellsbury went 2 for 4 with a run scored. George Kottaras went 1 for 3 with a run scored and a RBI.

Columbus got by Portland 5-2. Tommy Hottovy (1-6) took the loss. He went 5 1/3 innings allowing 4 runs on 7 hits and 2 BB. He had 9 Ks. Barry Hertzler threw 2 2/3 innings allowing 1 run on 5 hits. He had 1 K. Eric Crozier went 1 for 4 with a home run.

Lancaster fell 6-2 to Lake Elsinore. Matt Goodson (0-2) took the loss going 2 1/3 innings. He gave up 4 runs on 5 hits and 4 BB. He had 2 Ks. Ismael Cassilas went 2 2/3 innings giving up 1 run on 3 hits and 2 BB. He had a K. Blake Maxwell went 2 innings giving up 1 run on 2 hits and a BB. He had 2 Ks. TJ Large threw a scoreless inning allowing 2 hits and a BB. He had 2 Ks. Mickey Hall went 2 for 3 with a home run. Ryan Khoury went 1 for 4 with a home run.

Greenville defeated Hickory 5-3. Chris Jones (3-4) threw 5 innings giving up 1 run on 4 hits and a BB. He had 8 Ks. Jorge Rodriquez went 1/3 of an inning giving up 2 runs on 2 hits. Kyle Fernandes went 1 2/3 perfect innings. Josh Papelbon went 2 scoreless innings. He gave up 2 hits. Manny Arambarris went 2 for 3 with a run scored and a RBI. Josh Reddick went 2 for 3 with 2 runs scored. Jon Still went 1 for 4 with 2 RBI.

Player of the Night: Chris Jones who allowed 1 run over 5 innings with 8Ks in the Drive's victory.

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Player of the Week, May 20-26: Brandon Moss

In six games against Ottawa (O's) and Syracuse (Blue Jays) Pawtucket's Brandon Moss continued swinging a hot bat, hitting two HR, three doubles, one triple, batting in eight runs while scoring six himself, for a .500/.519/.923 (1.442 OPS) line in 26 ABs. For this performance he was voted SoxProspects.com Player of the Week for May 20-26. Building on the strength of a comeback 2006 campaign with Portland, the lefty-batting 23-year-old Moss has reemerged as a Red Sox top-five prospect, owning a .289/.390/.528 (.918 OPS) line with nine HR on the season thus far. Honorable mention: Lancaster's Bubba Bell, who went .615/.656/.885 (1.541 OPS) on the week.

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Pitcher of the Week, May 20-26: Clay Buchholz

Clay Buchholz made only one start on the week, and it resulted in a no-decision for the Portland RHP, but it was enough to net him SoxProspects.com Pitcher of the Week honors for May 20 - 26. Most AA no-decisions don't end up on ESPN, but you would have needed to have your head buried in the sand last Wednesday afternoon (and the next day) to miss Buchholz out-dueling and out-lasting Roger Clemens who was making a much ballyhooed tune-up appearance for the Trenton Thunder, May 23. Over six innings, Buchholz allowed two ER on seven hits and issued no walks, striking out eight, and was in line for the win (and Clemens the loss) until Mike James allowed a HR in the 9th. Buchholz only struggles came in the first inning, when he allowed both runs on four straight hits, he settled in to retire 15 of the last 18 batters he faced. He is a two time Pitcher of the Week, having won previously for the week of April 29 - May 5. On the season, Buchholz is 2-1 over 51.1 IP in nine starts, allowing 10 ER (1.75 ERA) on 34 H, striking out 69 while issuing 10 BB, holding opponents to an .188 BA.

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Beckett activated, Delcarmen optioned

After Monday night's 5-3 win over the Cleveland Indians, the Red Sox activated RHP Josh Beckett from the 15 day DL and optioned RHP Manny Delcarmen to AAA Pawtucket. Beckett had been placed on the DL May 19, retroactive to May 14, after suffering an avulsion on his right middle finger during while facing the Baltimore Orioles. In this most recent stint in Boston, Delcarmen made one appearance, throwing a perfect inning of relief against the Yankees on May 21. Delcarmen has made 15 appearances with Pawtucket this season, allowing 11 ER in 20.2 IP, striking out 29 while walking 10. After a difficult April, Delcarmen has settled in during May, surrendering two ER on six hits in nine innings (2.00 ERA) striking out 13 and walking four. In his most recent appearance, May 29 against Columbus (NYY), Delcarmen allowed one hit and two walks, while striking out one batter in a scoreless inning.

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Buchholz continues his domination

5/29 Cup of Coffee: Action on Memorial Day saw Pawtucket edge Columbus 2-1. David Pauley started and went 6 1/3 innings giving up 1 run on 4 hits. He had 3 Ks. Craig Breslow went 2/3 of an inning. He did not allow a hit or a BB and struck out 1. Edgar Martinez threw 1 scoreless inning giving up 1 hit. Travis Hughes pitched a scoreless 9th allowing 1 hit. Michael Tucker went 1 for 2 and scored a run. Ed Rogers went 1 for 3 and had a RBI.

Portland defeated Reading 4-1. Clay Buchholz (2-1) started and went 5 2/3 scoreless innings. He allowed 2 hits and 3 BB while striking out 8. Lincoln Holdzkom threw 2 1/3 innings giving up 1 run on 2 hits and a BB. He had 3 Ks. Mike James pitched a scoreless 9th giving up 2 BB. Jed Lowrie went 1 for 3 and scored 2 runs. Jeff Corsaletti went 1 for 3 and scored a run. Jay Johnson went 1 for 4 with 2 RBI.

Lake Elsinore blanked Lancaster 8-0. John Barnes started and went 5 innings. He allowed 7 runs on 7 hits and 3 BB. He had 6 Ks. Kevin Guyette threw 3 innings allowing 1 run on 4 hits. He had 4 Ks. Zak Farkes went 1 for 3.

West Virginia shutout Greenville 4-0. Felix Doubront (0-2) started and went 5 innings. He allowed 2 runs on 5 hits and 2 BB. He had 1 K. Jordan Craft went 1 1/3 innings giving up 2 runs on 2 hits and a BB. Richie Lentz went the final 1 2/3 innings. He did not allow a run on 1 hit and 2 BB. He had 1 K. Kris Negron had the only hit for the Drive going 1 for 3.

Player of the Night: Clay Buchholz who pitched 5 2/3 scoreless innings fanning 8 to pick up his 2nd win.

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Chris Smith picks up win for Seadogs

5/28 Cup of Coffee: On Sunday, Syracuse defeated Pawtucket 9-2. Devern Hansack (1-5) started and took the loss. He threw 4 innings giving up 5 runs on 4 hits and 4 BB. He had 4 Ks. Abe Alvarez went 2 innings giving up 2 runs on 4 hits and a BB. He had 2 Ks. Mike Timlin went 2/3 of an inning allowing 2 runs on 2 hits and a BB. Mike Burns went 1 1/3 innings. He did not allow a run and had 2 Ks. Travis Hughes threw a scoreless inning with 2 Ks. David Murphy went 2 for 4 and scored a run. Michael Tucker went 2 for 3 with a home run and 2 RBI.

Portland defeated Reading 6-4. Daniel Haigwood went 3 2/3 innings giving up 4 runs on 6 hits and 2 BB. He had 8 Ks. Chris Smith (1-2) picked up the win going 3 1/3 scoreless innings. He allowed 3 hits and a BB while striking out 4. Beau Vaughan threw a scoreless inning with 1 K. Mike James pitched the fiinal frame giving up 2 BB and striking out 1. Jed Lowrie and Jay Johnson each went 2 for 4 and scored a run. Zach Borowiak went 1 for 2 with a run scored and 2 RBI.

Lancaster fell to Lake Elsinore 7-1. Justin Masterson (2-4) started and went 5 2/3 innings. He gave up 2 runs on 5 hits and 3 BB. He had 2 Ks. Ismael Casillas went 2/3 of an inning allowing 2 runs on 2 hits and a BB. Blake Maxwell did not retire a batter but gave up 3 runs on 3 hits. Jason Blackey threw 1 2/3 scoreless innings. He gave up 1 hit and had 2 Ks. Scott White went 1 for 3. Mark Wagner went 1 for 3 with a RBI.

West Virginia edged Greenville 5-4. Travis Beazley started and went 7 innings. He allowed 3 runs on 6 hits. He did not walk a batter while recording 4 Ks. Josh Papelbon (2-1) blew tha save and took the loss. In an inning of work, he gave up 2 runs on 3 hits and a BB. Manny Arambarris went 2 for 5 with a run scored and a RBI. Lars Anderson raised his BA to .329 going 2 for 3 with a run scored and 2 RBI. Argenis Diaz went 2 for 4. Luis Exposito went 2 for 4 with a run scored.

Player of the Night: Chris Smith who picked up the win for Portland throwing 3 1/3 scoreless innings of relief

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Moss has big night going 4 for 5

5/27 Cup of Coffee: Saturday's games saw Syracuse get by Pawtucket 10-7. Runelvys Hernandez went 6 innings. He gave up 4 runs on 5 hits and 3 BB. He had 1 K. Craig Hansen threw an inning allowing a run on 3 hits. Bryan Corey went 1 inning giving up 1 run on 1 hit. He had 2 Ks. Mike Burns (0-4) went an inning blowing the save and taking the loss. He allowed 4 runs on 4 hits. He had 2 Ks. Jacoby Ellsbury went 3 for 5 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. He raised his BA to .299. Brandon Moss went 4 for 5 with a run scored and 3 RBI. He is now hitting .304. David Murphy went 1 for 4 with 2 runs scored and a RBI.

Portland defeated Reading 8-5. Charlie Zink (3-1) started and went 7 innings giving up 5 runs on 7 hits and 3 BB. He had 2 Ks. Barry Hertzler threw 2 scoreless innings. He had 1 K. Jay Johnson went 2 for 4 and scored 2 runs. Eric Crozier went 2 for 2 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Iggy Suarez went 1 for 4 with a run scored and 2 RBI.

Lancaster outlasted Inland Empire 8-7. Mike Rozier went 6 innings. He gave up 5 runs on 7 hits and 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. Jose Vaquedano (1-0) earned the win going 2 innings. He allowed 2 runs on 3 hits and 2 BB. He had 1 K. TJ Large threw a scoreless final frame giving up 1 hit. Bubba Bell went 1 for 3 and scored 2 runs. Zach Daeges went 1 for 3 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 3 RBI. Aaron Bates went 2 for 4. Mark Wagner went 1 for 3 with 2 RBI. Ryan Khoury went 2 for 4 with a RBI.

West Virginia defeated Greenville 11-8. Dustin Richardson went 1 2/3 innings giving up 4 runs on 5 hits and 2 BB. He had 1 K. Jorge Rodriquez went 3 1/3 innings allowing 3 runs on 3 hits and 3 BB. He had 5 Ks. Kyle Fernandes was charged with a blown save. He went 1 2/3 innings. He allowed 1 hit and was not charged with a run. He had 2 BB. Felix Ventura (0-2) went 1 1/3 innings allowing 4 runs on 3 hits and a BB. Kris Negron went 2 for 2 and scored 3 times. Lars Anderson went 2 for 3 with 3 RBI. He is now hitting .324. Josh Reddick went 1 for 5 with a home run and 2 RBI. Argenis Diaz went 2 for 5 with a run scored.

Player of the Night: Brandon Moss who went 4 for 5 with a run scored and 3 RBI

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Jones & Papelbon continue to shine

5/26 Cup of Coffee: Friday's action saw Pawtucket defeat Syracuse 10-4. Kason Gabbard (4-1) went 5 1/3 innings to earn the win. He gave up 4 runs on 6 hits and 2 BB. He had 5 Ks. Edgar Martinez went 2/3 of an inning. He did not allow a hit or a BB. He had a K. Mike Timlin threw a scoreless inning giving up 1 BB. Travis Hughes pitched 2 scoreless innings. He allowed a BB and had 2 Ks. Jacoby Ellsbury went 2 for 5 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Joe McEwing went 3 for 5 with a run scored and 2 RBI. Jeff Bailey went 2 for 4 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 2 RBI. Brandon Moss went 2 for 5 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 2 RBI. Ed Rogers went 2 for 4 with a run scored and a RBI.

Portland defeated Reading 9-5. Tommy Hottovy started and went 6 innings giving up 1 run on 4 hits and a BB. He had 1 K. Andrew Dobies (3-1) had a rare relief appearance to pick up the win. He went 1 1/3 innings. He gave up 4 runs on 6 hits. He had 3 Ks. Kyle Jackson went 1 2/3 innings to close out the contest. He did not allow a run on 1 hit. He had 1 K. Jeff Corsaletti went 4 for 5 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI. Jed Lowrie went 2 for 3 with a run scored and a RBI. John Otness went 2 for 5 with a run scored and a RBI. Iggy Suarez went 2 for 4 with a run scored and 2 RBI. Zach Borowiak went 2 for 4 with a run scored.

Lancaster fell to Inland Empire 11-8. Matt Goodson (0-1) took the loss. He went 4 innings giving up 4 runs on 7 hits and 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. Jason Blackley went 1/3 of an inning allowing 5 runs on 5 hits and a BB. Hunter Jones continued to pitch well going 2 2/3 scoreless innings. He allowed just 1 hit while fanning 3. His ERA is now 2.23. Chad Rhoades pitched the final 2 innings giving up 2 runs on 4 hits and a BB. Bubba Bell continued his outstanding performances at the plate going 3 for 4 with a homer, 3 runs scored and 3 RBI. Luis Soto went 2 for 5 with a run scored. Aaron Bates was 1 for 4 with 2 RBI.

Greenville got by West Virginia 7-5. Chris Jones went 5 innings allowing 2 runs on 5 hits and 2 BB. He had 7 Ks. Brian Steinocher (2-5) picked up the win throwing 2 scoreless innings. He gave up 1 hit and had 4 Ks. Adam Blackey went 2/3 of an inning. He gave up 3 runs on 2 hits. He had 1 K. Josh Papelbon picked up his 8th save going 1 1/3 scoreless innings. He allowed 2 hits and had 2 Ks. He lowered his ERA to 1.04. Lars Anderson went 3 for 4 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 2 RBI. Jon Still went 2 for 4 with a homer and 4 RBI. Chih-Hsien Chiang went 2 for 3. Josh Reddick went 2 for 4 and scored a run.

Player of the Night: Jeff Corsaletti who went 4 for 5 on the night with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI.

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Twelve Questions with Kris Johnson

For the fifth installment of Twelve Questions with Top Prospects, SoxProspects.com sent some Qs over to Lancaster SP Kris Johnson. There were a lot of questions to pick from, many focusing on Kris’s development and the pitfalls of pitching in the Cal League. Thanks a ton to Kris for taking time out of his busy schedule during the season! Here are his responses to the questions from the SoxProspects Community.


1. Kris, thanks for answering our questions, much appreciated! What baseball players did you look up to the most growing up and how has that affected the way you carry yourself as a pro?
Kris: I always looked at Curt Schilling and Randy Johnson - just the way they compete and attitude out on the mound.

2. I have heard that Wichita State will use the promise of low pitch counts and avoided abuse to attract pitchers to their program. Is this true? What about Wichita State makes it such a pitcher factory? Do you still keep in touch with your old teammates there?
Kris: Wichita State does not abuse their pitchers at all. I believe it has to do with one person, pitching coach Brent Kemnitz. He's the guy that makes you a better pitcher - not by mechanics - but by having mental toughness. I do still keep in contact with a few players from there, the ones I hung out with when I was there.

3. Talk about your recovery from Tommy John surgery. Going through your game logs from your junior season, there seemed to be a point when everything just came back together and you began dominating hitters again. Was there a day when you realized, "OK, I'm back"? To add to this, do you feel like you've fully recovered?
Kris: The recovery was very long and strenuous, a month of just stretching, then like five months of lifting and swimming, then the long process of the throwing program took about four months to complete. I guess it was a progression at first, but just one game it clicked and everything came together, and I do now feel fully recovered. Just some tweaks here and there.

4. What was the draft process like for you? Did you have an idea that the Red Sox were interested? Did you feel like you went in the draft around where you expected?
Kris: Yes (to the third part). My agent and I are very close and he knew where I was going to go, so I wasn't really worried. I just kept it in the back of my mind, but it was a lot of fun for my family and friends. Exciting and emotional are the words I'd use.

5. What are some of the adjustments the Red Sox have made for you since you were drafted? Are there any goals that the Red Sox have specifically laid out for you this season? What do you feel like you have to improve to help reach these goals?
Kris: There was really no adjustments made - just making sure that I was staying online with my pitches. No real specific goals, just experience and confidence is what they want me to gain out here. I think I have to be more consistent.

6. Besides remaining healthy, are there any other personal goals you have for this year (perfecting a pitch, achieving a promotion, winning games, etc.)?
Kris: I think it's just perfecting all my pitches, of course I would love a promotion sometime who wouldn't!

7. Please generally discuss your arsenal. Where does your fastball sit/top out? How would you rate your curve and change? What do you consider your “out” pitch?
Kris: My fastball usually sits around 88-91 mph and top out at about 93. I would definitely rate my changeup higher than my curveball, and my out pitch would have to be either my fastball or changeup.

8. Beyond the descriptions of your “stuff”, what attributes do you think you bring to the table as a pitcher?
Kris: Composure – keeping the attitude on the mound that no one can hit me.

9. Did the Red Sox/JetHawks player development folks do anything to prepare you physically or mentally for pitching in the extreme hitters’ environment of Lancaster?
Kris: Not really, it's more of a learning experience where they want me to figure things out on my own, it's part of my development process.

10. What is it exactly about Lancaster that makes it so difficult to pitch there? Wind? Altitude? Large outfield? Subconscious effects? Or a combination of everything? What adjustments do pitchers have to make due to these park effects?
Kris: It's mainly just the wind and the altitude.

11. This season, your ERA is in the 7.00's, which is obviously bloated by the league and park you play in. How do you feel you have pitched so far? How do you feel you have developed so far?
Kris: I have developed a lot even though numbers don’t speak it. I believe that I have pitched okay, but there is still room for improvement.

12. Aside from the ballpark effects, what type of adjustments have you needed to make in your second season as a pro, both physically and mentally?
Kris: The ability to hold runners is huge out here ... they love to run whenever they can.

Bonus: If you weren’t playing baseball, what other professions interest you?
Kris: Well something with baseball of course - maybe a regional agent for my current agent.

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Bell continues to feast on Cal League pitching

5/25 Cup of Coffee: Last night. Pawtucket edged Syracuse 3-2. Jon Lester continued his rehab going 5 innings. He gave up 1 run on 3 hits and a BB. He had 1 K. Craig Hansen (1-1) picked up the win going 2 scoreless innings. He did not allow a hit but gave up 1 BB. Bryan Corey went an inning giving up 1 run on 1 hit. He had 1 K. Mike Burns threw a perfect final frame with 1 K. Jacoby Ellsbury went 1 for 2 with a run scored. David Murphy went 2 for 4 with 2 RBI. Chad Spann went 2 for 3 with a run scored.

Portland edged Trenton 3-2. Mike Bowden started and went 4 innings. He did not allow a run on 4 hits and 5 BB. He had 3 Ks. Lincoln Holdzkom went 2 innings giving up 1 run on 2 hits. He had 3 Ks. Beau Vaughan threw 2 innings giving up a run on 3 hits. He had 3 Ks. Mike James pitched a scoreless final frame. He gave up 2 BB and had 2 Ks. Jeff Corsaletti went 3 for 4 and scored a run. Andrew Pinckney went 2 for 4.

Lancaster blasted Inland Empire 8-1. Kris Johnson went 5 innings allowing 1 run on 3 hits and 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. Blake Maxwell went 3 scoreless innings. He allowed 1 hit and gave up 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. Ismael Casillas threw a perfect ninth. He had 1 K. Bubba Bell continued to tear up California League pitching. He went 4 for 4 with a run scored and 3 RBI. He is now hitting .370. Tony Granadillo went 3 for 5 with a run scored and a RBI. Yahmed Yema went 1 for 3 with a run scored and a RBI.

Lexington got by Greenville 10-7. Ryan Phillips went 4 1/3 innings giving up 5 runs on 5 hits and 3 BB. He had 7 Ks. Kyle Fernandes (2-1) went only 2/3 of an inning and took the loss. He gave up 3 runs on 4 hits and a BB. He had 1 K. Richie Lentz went 2 innings allowing 1 run on 1 hit and 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. Jordan Craft pitched the final frame giving up a run on 2 BB. Manny Arambarris went 2 for 5 with a run scored. Lars Anderson went 3 for 5 with a run scored and a RBI. Jon Still went 3 for 5 with 2 RBI. Reid Engel went 2 for 4 and scored 2 runs. Luis Exposito went 2 for 3 with a run scored and a RBI.

Player of the Night: Bubba Bell went 4 for 4 with a run scored and 3 RBI.

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Buchholz outduels Clemens but Sea Dogs blow lead in 9th.

5/24 Cup of Coffee: Pawtucket did not play on Wednesday.

Portland blew a 3-2 lead in the ninth, let Roger Clemens off the hook and ended up losing 4-3 in 10 innings. Clay Buchholz started and outpitched the future hall of famer. He went 6 innings giving up 2 runs on 7 hits. He did not walk a batter and had 8 Ks. Barry Hertzler went 2 innings and did not give up a run on 1 hit. He had 1 K. Mike James pitched the ninth and blew the save giving up a 2 out home run. He had 1 K. Chris Smith did not retire a batter in the 10th. He allowed 1 run on 3 hits. Jed Lowrie went 2 for 4 with a run scored. Andrew Pinckney went 1 for 4 with a run scored. Iggy Suarez went 1 for 3 with a RBI. John Otness went 1 for 3.

Lancaster doubled Inland Empire 16-8. Kevin Guyette went 3 2/3 innings. He gave up 7 runs on 9 hits and 2 BB. He had 1 K. Jose Vaquedano went 2 1/3 innings allowing 1 run on 3 hits and a BB. He had 1 K. TJ Large (1-0) threw 1 2/3 innings to pick up the win. He did not allow a run on 1 hit and a BB. He had 1 K. Chad Rhoades went the final 1 1/3 frames. He did not allow a run on 1 hit. He had 1 K. Bubba Bell went 3 for 6 with a run scored and 1 RBI. Tony Granadillo went 4 for 6 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Ryan Khoury went 2 for 4 with 2 home runs and 5 RBI. Mickey Hall went 2 for 4 and scored twice. Aaron Bates went 2 for 4 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI. Zach Daeges went 2 for 4 with 3 runs scored and a RBI.

Lexington blanked Greenville 12-0. Felix Doubront (0-1) started and went 4 innings giving up 6 runs on 7 hits and a BB. He had 1 K. Brian Steinocher threw 1 2/3 innings. He gave up 4 runs on 6 hits. Jorge Rodriquez pitched the final 2 1/3 frames allowing 2 runs on 2 hits and a BB. He had 2 Ks. Lars Anderson and Jason Place each went 1 for 2. Reid Engel went 1 for 3.

Player of the Night: Tony Granadillo who went 4 for 6 with 2 runs scored and a RBI

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Pitcher of the Week, May 13-19: Kason Gabbard

Before his call-up to start against Atlanta May 20, Kason Gabbard had earned SoxProspects.com Pitcher of the Week for May 13-19, in a May 14 start against Toledo (Detroit). Over five innings, the lefty Gabbard held the Mud Hens to two hits, striking out seven and walking one, while not allowing a run and earning a win. In eight starts with Pawtucket, Gabbard (25) is 2-1 with a 2.75 ERA, allowing 12 ER on 32 hits (35K/12BB) in 39.1 IP. Honorable Mention: Michael Bowden, a two time winner who lost this week's vote by a tie-breaking vote (5.0 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 5 K).

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Position Player of the Week, May 13-19: Reid Engel

Greenville RF Reid Engel continued to rebound from his early season struggles, swinging a hot bat to the tune of a .500/.538/.792 (1.330 OPS) line, hitting one HR, two doubles and batting in eight, and earning SoxProspects.com Position Player of the Week honors for May 13 - 19. The lefty hitting, righty throwing Engel, who just turned 20 May 7, raised his batting average 41 points over the six game span against Agusta (Giants) and Greensboro (Marlins) to .298. Engel spent last season with Lowell, hitting .251/.280/.355 (.635 OPS), was picked by The Sox in the fifth round of the 2005 draft. He is currently ranked as SoxProspects.com 21st rated prospect. Honorable mention: Aaron Bates, .360/.467/.880 on the week, who set a California League single game record with four HR, May 19.

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Bell reaches base 6 times in Lancaster win

5/23 Cup of Coffee: Pawtucket defeated Ottawa 7-3. Abe Alvarez (3-3) went 6 innings to pick up the win. He gave up 3 runs on 8 hits and a BB. He had 7 Ks. Edgar Martinez threw a perfect inning of relief. Travis Hughes went 2 scoreless innings giving up 2 hits and a BB. He had 1 K. Jacoby Ellsbury went 3 for 4 and scored twice. Bobby Scales went 4 for 5 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI. David Murphy went 2 for 5. Brandon Moss went 2 for 5 with a home run and 2 RBI.

Trenton got past Portland 3-1. Daniel Haigwood (0-2) started and took the loss. He went 5 innings giving up 1 run on 4 hits and 2 BB. He had 8 Ks. Kyle Jackson went 2 innings allowing 2 runs on 3 hits and a BB. He had 3 Ks. Beau Vaughn threw a scoreless last inning. He gave up a BB. Jed Lowrie went 2 for 4. Andrew Pinckney went 1 for 4 with a RBI. Bryan Pritz went 1 for 3.

Lancaster blasted Inland Empire 19-7. Justin Masterson (2-3) went 5 2/3 innings giving up 6 runs and 9 hits and 2 BB. He had 5 Ks. Hunter Jones threw 1 1/3 scoreless innings. He gave up 1 hit and had 1 K. He lowered his ERA to 2.43. Jason Blackey went 2 innings giving up 1 run on 3 hits and a BB. He had 1 K. Bubba Bell went 4 for 4 with 4 runs scored and a RBI. Tony Granadillo went 3 for 5 with a home run, 3 runs scoredand 5 RBI. Zach Daeges went 2 for 4 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 3 RBI. Scott White went 2 for 5 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI. Mark Wagner went 2 for 6 with a run scored and a RBI. Yahmed Yema went 2 for 5 with 2 RBI. Mickey Hall went 2 for 5 with a run scored and 3 RBI.

Greenville defeated Lexington 8-3. Travis Beazley (4-4) started and picked up the victory. He went 6 innings giving up 1 run on 6 hits. He had 2 Ks. Jordan Craft went 2/3 of an inning giving up 2 runs on 3 hits. He had 1 K. Kyle Fernandes went 1 1/3 perfect innings. He had 1 K. Josh Papelbon threw a scoreless ninth. He allowed 1 BB and had 1 K. He lowered his ERA to 1.09. Reid Engel went 2 for 5 with a run scored and 2 RBI. Chih-Hsien Chiang went 2 for 5 with a run scored. Jason Place went 2 for 4 with 2 RBI. Carlos Fernandez went 2 for 4 and scored a run. Jon Still went 1 for 3 with 2 runs scored and a RBI.

Player of the Night: Bubba Bell who had a perfect night at the plate reaching base 6 times on 4 hits and 2 BB. He also scored 4 runs and had a RBI.

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Sox affiliates go 0-3

5/22 Cup of Coffee: It was not a good night for Sox affiliate teams. They were 0-3 for the night. Ottawa edged Pawtucket 5-4. David Pauley started and went 5 innings. He allowed 2 runs on 6 hits and 4 BB. He had 6 Ks. Craig Hansen threw 1 scoreless inning giving up a hit and a BB. Bryan Corey pitched 2 scoreless innings. He gave up 1 hit and had 3 Ks. Mike Burns (0-3) was charged with a blown save and the loss. He allowed 3 runs on 6 hits and a BB over the final 1 1/3 innings. He had 3 Ks. Brandon Moss went 3 for 4 with 3 runs scored and a RBI. Ed Rogers went 2 for 5 with a RBI. George Kottaras went 3 for 5 with a RBI.

Trenton blanked Portland 6-0. Charlie Zink (2-1) started and went 5 innings. He gave up 4 runs on 8 hits and 2 BB. He had 4 Ks. Lincoln Holdzkom went 3 innings giving up 2 runs on 1 hit and 3 BB. He had 4 Ks. Bryan Pritz ,1 for 3, had the only Sea Dog hit of the night.

Lancaster was not scheduled last night.

Greenville's winning streak was snapped by Lexington who scored a 5-2 win over the Drive. Dustin Richardson (2-4) took the loss going 5 innings giving up 3 runs on 3 hits and 3 BB. He had 4 Ks. Richie Lentz went 2 scoreless innings. He gave up 2 hits and a BB. Adam Blackley went 1 inning and gave up 2 runs on 1 hit and 2 BB. He had 1 K. Reid Engel went 3 for 5. Jason Place went 2 for 3 and scored a run. Pedro Vasquez went 2 for 4 with a RBI. Carlos Fernandez went 2 for 4 and scored a run.

Player of the Night: Brandon Moss who went 3 for 4 with 3 runs scored and a RBI

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Greenville wins their 7th straight game

5/21 Cup of Coffee: Ottawa edged Pawtucket 2-1 on Sunday. Runelvys Hernandez (0-3) started and went 6 innings taking the loss. He gave up 2 runs on 7 hits and 3 BB. He struck out 7. Craig Breslow pitched the final 2 innings. He did not allow a run on a hit and a BB. He had 3 Ks. Bobby Scales went 1 for 2 with a RBI. Chad Spann went 1 for 3 with a run scored.

Portland defeated Reading 5-2. Tommy Hottovy (1-5) started and went 6 innings. He allowed 2 runs on 4 hits and 4 BB. He had 2 Ks. Barry Hertzler threw 2 perfect innings. Mike James threw a 1-2-3 final frame with 1 K. Jed Lowrie went 2 for 5 with a RBI. Jay Johnson went 4 for 5 and scored a run. Andrew Pinckney went 3 for 4 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI. Iggy Suarez went 2 for 4.

Lancaster fell 21-6 to Lake Elsinore. In the three game series over the weekend, the Jethawk pitching staff gave up 63 runs. Yesterday, Mike Rozier (1-4) started and went 4 2/3 innings giving up 8 runs on 10 hits and 2 BB. He had 5 Ks. Ismael Casillas went 2 1/3 innings. He allowed 1 run on 2 hits and 3 BB. He had 1 K. J.T. Zink went 1/3 of an inning. He gave up 8 runs on 6 hits and 2 BB. Blake Maxwell went 1 2/3 innings. He gave up 4 runs on 4 hits and 1 BB. Aaron Bates went 2 for 3 with 2 runs scored. Yahmed Yema went 2 for 4 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 2 RBI. Zak Farkes went 2 for 4 with a run scored and a RBI.

Greenville won their 7th straight defeating Greensboro 6-3. Chris Jones went 7 innings giving up 1 run on 7 hits. He did not allow a BB and had 8 Ks. Miquel Socolovich (2-2) went 2 innings giving up 2 runs on 3 hits and a BB. He had 1 K. Lars Anderson went 1 for 3 with a home run and 2 RBI. Chih-Hsien Chiang went 2 for 4 with a RBI. He is now hitting .317. Carlos Fernandez went 2 for 3 with a run scored and a RBI. Josh Reddick went 2 for 4.

Player of the Night: Andrew Pinckney who went 3 for 4 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI.

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Gabbard in, Hansack out

In need of another starting pitcher to finish this weekend's weather-modified series against the Braves, the Red Sox have returned Devern Hansack to Pawtucket and called up LHP Kason Gabbard to start today's finale against Tim Hudson. Last night Hansack lasted four innings allowing four runs (three ER) on six hits, walking one and striking out two while taking the loss in what would become as one-sided as the one that preceded it. He was removed from the game after the fourth inning, after suffering a contusion on this right hand from a batted ball. With the Paw Sox this season Gabbard is 3-1 with a 2.75 ERA in eight starts (39.1 IP), allowing 12 ER on 32 H and striking out 35 (12 BB). In his last start (May 14) against Toledo (Tigers) Gabbard allowed two hits and a BB, striking out seven over five innings for a victory. Appearing in seven games last season for the Red Sox (four starts), Gabbard was 1-3 with a 3.51 ERA in 25.2 IP allowing 10 ER on 24 H (15/16 K/BB).

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Aaron Bates sets Cal League record with 4 homers

5/20 Cup of Coffee: On Saturday, four Pawtucket pitchers combined to toss a 1 hit 4-0 shutout against Ottawa. Jon Lester started and was limited to 48 pitches. He went 3 2/3 innings allowing 1 hit and a BB. He had 2 Ks. Travis Hughes (3-1) went 3 1/3 hitless innings and picked up the win. He gave up 1 BB. Craig Hansen pitched a perfect inning with 1 K. Bryan Corey threw the final inning giving up a BB. Jacoby Ellsbury went 3 for 5 and scored twice. David Murphy went 2 for 4 with a run scored and a RBI. Jeff Bailey went 2 for 3 and scored a run.

Reading blasted Portland 12-2. Andrew Dobies (2-1) lasted 1 2/3 innings. He gave up 9 runs on 8 hits and 2 BB. Kyle Jackson went 1 2/3 innings giving up 3 runs on 4 hits and 2 BB. He had a K. Jose Vaquedano went 2 2/3 innings. He did not allow a run on 2 hits and a BB. He had 1 K. Beau Vaughn threw 2 scoreless, hitless innings. He had 3 Ks. Jeff Corsaletti went 1 for 4 with 2 RBI. Eric Crozier and Andrew Pinckney each went 1 for 3 with a run scored.

Lancaster, at one point trailing 9-0, came from behind to defeat Lake Elsinore 14-12. Matt Goodson started and went 4 innings. He gave up 10 runs on 11 hits and a BB. He had 4 Ks. Chad Rhoades went 3 innings allowing 2 runs on 2 hits and a BB. He fanned 1. Hunter Jones (3-1) pitched the final 2 innings. He did not allow a run on 1 hit and 2 BB. He had 4 Ks. Tony Granadillo went 3 for 5 with a home run, 3 runs scored and 3 RBI. Zach Daeges went 2 for 5 with a run scored and a RBI. Aaron Bates was perfect going 5 for 5. He set a Cal League record with 4 home runs. He also had 6 RBI. Mark Wagner went 2 for 4 with 2 RBI. Christian Lara went 2 for 3 and scored 2 runs.

Greenville extended their winning streak to 6 games by edging Greensboro 5-4. Ryan Phillips started and went 4 1/3 innings. He allowed 2 runs on 4 hits and 4 BB. He had 6 Ks. Kyle Fernandes threw 3 2/3 innings giving up 1 run on 3 hits and a BB. He had 1 K. Josh Papelbon (2-0) threw the final inning blowing the save but picking up the win. He gave up 1 BB and that runner came around to score on an error. He did not allow a hit and had 2 Ks. Manny Arambarris went 2 for 4. Jon Still went 1 for 3 and scored 2 runs. Chih-Hsien Chiang went 2 for 4 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 3 RBI.

Player of the Night: Aaron Bates who went a perfect 5 for 5 at the plate including setting a California League record with 4 home runs.

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Bowden wins 1st start at AA

5/19 Cup of Coffee: Pawtucket's game against Durham was postponed due to rain.

Portland defeated Reading 5-3. In his first start at AA, Michael Bowden went 5 innings giving up 1 run on 2 hits and 2 BB. He had 5 Ks. Chris Smith went 3 innings giving up 1 run on 5 hits. He had 1 K. Mike James closed the game off going 1 inning. He allowed 1 run on 1 hit. He had 2 Ks. Bryan Pritz went 3 for 4 and scored 2 runs. Jed Lowrie went 1 for 2 with a run scored. Jeff Corsaletti went 1 for 3 with a RBI.

In a Ripley's Believe It or Not scoreline, Lake Elsinore blasted Lancaster 30-0. Kris Johnson (2-3) started and gave up 8 runs on 5 hits and 2 BB in 1 1/3 innings. He had 3 Ks. Mario Pena went 1 2/3 innings giving up 11 runs on 8 hits and 3 BB. TJ Large threw 3 1/3 innings allowing 3 runs on 5 hits and 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. Jason Blackey went 2 innings allowing 5 runs on 6 hits and a BB. He had 2 Ks. Blake Maxwell gave up 3 runs on 4 hits in the final 2/3 of an inning. Luis Soto was the only Jethawk with more than 1 hit. He went 2 for 4.

Greenville won their 5th game in a row defeating Greensboro 12-5. Brian Steinocher started and went 4 2/3 innings. He gave up 3 runs on 3 hits and 2 BB. He struck out 4. Jordan Craft (1-3) picked up the win going 1 1/3 innings. He allowed 2 runs on 4 hits. He had 3 Ks. Adam Blackley pitched 2 scoreless innings. He did not allow a hit while giving up 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. Richie Lentz pitched the final inning. He allowed 1 hit. Kris Negron went 3 for 5 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Manny Arambarris went 3 for 5 with a run scored and a RBI. Lars Anderson went 2 for 5 with a run scored and 2 RBI. Carlos Fernandez went 2 for 4 with a run scored and 3 RBI.

Player of the Night: Michael Bowden who won his first start at AA going 5 innings allowing just 1 run on 2 hits while striking out 5.

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Hansack recalled, will fill in for Beckett

Ten days after appearing in relief for the big club (0.2 IP: 1 H, 1 ER, 3 BB, 1 K), RHP Devern Hansack has been recalled from Pawtucket to start tonight at Fenway against the Atlanta Braves. A demoted player is usually required to spend 10 days in the minors before being eligible to be recalled, unless a player is placed on the DL. The Red Sox announced yesterday that Josh Beckett had been placed on the DL as a result of the ringer injury he suffered Sunday, May 13 (the move is retroactive to that day); he is expected to miss two starts. In Hansack's last start with Pawtucket (May 12) he allowed three ER on five hits, while issuing three walks and striking out three in 6.0 IP in a loss at home against Toledo (Tigers). Hansack had been scheduled to start yesterday against Durham, his turn was taken by Charlie Zink. On the season with the PawSox Hansack is 1-4 in 34.2 IP over six starts, surrendering 15 ER (3.89 ERA) on 35 H (.267 BAA) while walking 9 and striking out 37.

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Yema's grand slam highlights Jethawk win

5/18 Cup of Coffee: In action on Thursday, Pawtucket was defeated by Durham 11-3. Charlie Zink (0-1) took the loss going 3 innings, giving up 9 runs on 8 hits and 4 BB. Edgar Martinez went 4 innings giving up 2 runs on 2 hits. He had 6 Ks. Travis Hughes threw the final 2 innings. He did not allow a run on 1 hit. He had 3 Ks. Jeff Bailey went 1 for 1 with a home run and he scored twice. Brandon Moss went 1 for 4 with a RBI.

Portland split a doubleheader with Altoona. They lost the first game 2-1. Clay Buchholz went 5 2/3 innings. He allowed 1 run on 3 hits and 3 BB. He had 7 Ks. Beau Vaughn (1-2) threw 2/3 of an inning allowing 1 run on 2 hits and a BB. Iggy Suarez went 1 for 3 and scored a run. Jeff Corsaletti, Jed Lowrie, Scott Youngbauer, and John Otness all went 1 for 3. Cory Keylor went 1 for 2. The Sea Dogs rebounded to take the second game 15-3. Daniel Haigwood went 3 innings giving up 3 runs on 2 hits and 5 BB. He had 3 Ks. Lincoln Holdzkom threw 2 scoreless innings giving up 1 hit and 2 BB. He had 4 Ks. Jose Vaquedano threw a scoreless inning. He allowed 2 hits and had 1 K. Mike James threw a perfect final inning. Jeff Corsaletti went 2 for 2 with a home run, 3 runs scored and 2 RBI. Jed Lowrie went 3 for 3 with 3 runs scored and a RBI. Eric Crozier went 2 for 5 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 4 RBI. Dusty Brown went 3 for 5 with a run scored and 4 RBI. Iggy Suarez went 2 for 3 with 2 runs scored and a RBI.

Lancaster edged Bakersfield 8-7 in 11 innings. Kevin Guyette started and went 5 innings. He gave up 4 runs on 6 hits and a BB. He had 2 Ks. Hunter Jones threw 2 scoreless innings allowing a single hit while striking out 2. Blake Maxwell went 1 1/3 innings giving up 1 run on 1 hit. He had 3 Ks. Chad Rhoades pitched 2/3 of an inning. He gave up a run on 3 hits. He had 1 K. Ismael Casillas (3-3) got the victory. He gave up 1 run on 2 hits. He had 1 K. Bubba Bell went 2 for 5 with a home run and 2 RBI. Tony Granadillo went 2 for 5 with a RBI. Scott White went 2 for 6. Yahmed Yema went 3 for 4 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 4 RBI.

Greenville got by Greensboro 8-7 also in 11 innings. Travis Beazley went 6 2/3 innings allowing 7 runs on 10 hits and 3 BB. He had 4 Ks. Kyle Fernandes went 1 1/3 innings. He did not allow a run while giving up a single hit. Josh Papelbon threw 2 scoreless innings allowing 1 hit and a BB. His ERA lowered to 1.19. Jorge Rodriquez (1-0) pitched 1 inning and picked up the win. He gave up 1 hit and a BB. He had 2 Ks. Kris Negron went 3 for 6 and scored 3 times. Manny Arambarris went 3 for 6 with 3 runs scored. Lars Anderson went 2 for 5 with a RBI. Reid Engel went 4 for 5 with a run scored and a RBI.

Player of the Night: Yahmed Yema who went 3 for 4, hit a grand slam home run and scored twice.

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