May 30, 2007 at 11:58 PM
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.