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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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).

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.

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.

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

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

Delcarmen has thrown 6 consecutive scoreless innings

5/17 Cup of Coffee: Last night saw Pawtucket defeat Durham 7-4. Abe Alvarez (2-3) started and went 5 innings. He gave up 4 runs on 7 hits and 2 BB. He had 3 Ks. Manny Delcarmen threw 2 perfect innings of relief. He had 3 Ks. Bryan Corey threw 1 inning giving up 2 hits. He struck out 1. Mike Burns pitched the final inning. He gave up 1 hit and had 1 K. Brandon Moss went 1 for 4 with 2 RBI. Kevin Cash went 2 for 3 with a home run and 2 RBI. Chad Spann went 1 for 2 with a home run and 2 runs scored. David Murphy went 1 for 3 with a run scored and a RBI.

Lancaster blasted Bakersfield 16-5. Justin Masterson started and went 6 innings. He allowed 2 runs on 4 hits and 2 BB. Jason Blackey threw 2 innings giving up 3 runs on 4 hits and a BB. He had 3 Ks. Chad Rhoades pitched a perfect final inning with 1 K. Bubba Bell went 1 for 3 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 4 RBI. Tony Granadillo went 2 for 5 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI. Zach Daeges went 2 for 3 with a run scored and a RBI. Yahmed Yema went 2 for 5 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 3 RBI.

The Portland / Altoona game was postponed due to rain while Greenville was not scheduled.

Player of the Night: Manny Delcarmen who threw 2 perfect innings of relief with 3 Ks.

Pitcher of the Week, May 5-12: Michael Bowden

In his last start before being promoted to AA Portland, Lancaster RHP Michael Bowden turned in one last characteristically dominant performance, throwing seven innings of one hit (1 BB) shutout ball, striking out five for a Mothers Day victory, capping off a week for which he would be voted SoxProspects.com Pitcher of the Week for May 5 - 12. In his May 6 start against Visalia (D-Backs), Bowden tossed six scoreless innings, scattering six hits, while striking out four (walking none), for a no-decision. For the week Bowden allowed seven hits in 13 IP (.156 BAA), walking one and striking out nine. Bowden is scheduled to make his first start for the Sea Dogs on Friday. Honorable mention: Clay Buchholz, 1-0, 11.2 IP/10 H (.233 BAA), one walk, 19 strikeouts (8Ks in a row) 2.31 ERA (three ER).

Jeff Bailey has a perfect 5 for 5 night

5/16 Cup of Coffee: Last night, Pawtucket blasted Durhan 15-6. David Pauley (1-1) went 5 innings allowing 5 runs on 6 hits and a BB. He had 6 Ks. Craig Breslow went 3 innings allowing 1 run on 4 hits. He had 3 Ks. Travis Hughes went an inning. He did not allow a run on 1 hit and a BB. He had 2 Ks. Jacoby Ellsbury went 3 for 6 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. He also had 2 stolen bases. David Murphy went 2 for 5 with 2 runs scored. Jeff Bailey went 5 for 5 and scored 3 runs. Bobby Scales went 2 for 5 with a run scored and 2 RBI. Kevin Cash went 2 for 4 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 6 RBI.

Portland fell 6-2 to Altoona. Tommy Hottovy (0-5) took the loss. He went 5 innings giving up 4 runs on 7 hits. He did not allow a BB and had 3 Ks. Chris Smith threw 2 scoreless innings. He allowed 1 hit and 1 BB. He had 3 Ks. Kyle Jackson went 1 inning giving up 2 runs on 3 hits. Jed Lowrie went 1 for 4 and scored a run. Jay Johnson went 1 for 4 with a RBI. Scott Youngbauer, Andrew Pinckney, and Iggy Saurez all went 1 for 3.

Bakersfield doubled Lancasater 8-4. Mike Rozier went 6 innings giving up 4 runs on 5 hits and 2 BB. He had 5 Ks. Ismael Casillas (2-3) took the loss going 1/3 of an inning. He gave up 1 run on 2 BB. He had 1 K. Tim Cox went 1 2/3 innings allowing 3 runs on 6 hits. He had 1 K. Bubba Bell went 2 for 3 with a home run. He scored 2 runs. Scott White went 1 for 3 with a run scored and a RBI.

Greenville won their 2nd game in a row with a 9-3 victory over Augusta. Chris Jones (2-4) went 6 innings allowing 1 run on 4 hits and 2 BB. He had 5 Ks. Miquel Socolovich went an inning giving up 2 runs on 3 hits. He had 1 K. Josh Papelbon went 2 scoreless innings giving up 3 hits. He lowered his ERA to 1.31. Manny Arambarris went 2 for 3 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Lars Anderson went 2 for 4 with a RBI. Reid Engel went 2 for 3 with a RBI. Mickey Hall went 2 for 2 with 3 runs scored. Jon Still went 1 for 4 with 3 RBI.

Player of the Night: Jeff Bailey who had a perfect 5 for 5 night and scored 3 runs.

Position Player of the Week, May 5-12: Jed Lowrie

After an eight game span during which he reached base in over half his opportunities, while batting over .400, Portland's Jed Lowrie has been voted SoxProspects.com Position Player of the Week for May 5 - 12. The 23-year-old switch-hitting Lowrie hit at a .423/.559/.649 clip (1.250 OPS) against Binghampton (Mets) and Trenton (Yankees), with four doubles, one HR, batting in seven runs and scoring seven times himself. The lone game (vs. Trenton) in which he did not get a hit, Lowrie walked three times, scoring two runs, and batted in one. On the season with the Sea Dogs Lowrie is batting .227/.361/.361 (.722 OPS), with five doubles, one triple and two HR in 28 games (97 AB). Lowrie was a supplemental first round pick in 2005 (#45) out of Stanford as compensation for losing Orlando Cabrera to free agency. He spend last year with single-A Wilmington.

Sox affiliates stage rare sweep

5/15 Cup of Coffee: Pawtucket defeated Toledo 3-1 on action on Monday. Kason Gabbard (3-1) started and went 5 innings to earn the victory. He allowed 1 run on 2 hots and 1 BB. He had 7 Ks. Craig Hansen pitched 2 scoreless innings. He allowed 1 hit and 1 BB. He had 2 Ks. Bryan Corey and Mike Burns each threw a perfect inning. They both had 2 Ks. Jacoby Ellsbury went 1 for with a run scored. Joe McEwing went 2 for 4. David Murphy went 2 for 4 and scored a run. Chad Spann went 3 for 4 with a home run. Ed Rogers went 2 for 4. Brandon Moss went 1 for 3 with a RBI.

Portland was not scheduled to play last night.

Lancaster edged Bakersfield 4-3 in 10 innings. Matt Goodson started and went 6 innings. He gave up 1 run on 5 hits. He did not walk a batter and had 4 Ks. Hunter Jones threw 2 scoreless innings. He gave up 2 hits and had 1 K. Blake Maxwell (4-1) blew tha save but picked up the win. He went 2 innings giving up 2 runs on 3 hits and a BB. He had 2 Ks. Zach Daeges went 2 for 5 with 2 home runs. Christian Lara went 2 for 3 and scored a run. Tony Granadillo went 1 for 5 with a home run and 2 RBI.

Greenville edged Augusta 5-4 in 10 innings. Ryan Phillips started and went 4 innings. He gave up 2 runs on 3 hits and 4 BB. He had 4 Ks. Adam Blackley went 1/3 of an inning. He did not allow a run or a hit but gave up 2 BB. Jorge Rodriguez went 3 2/3 innings. He allowed 2 runs on 4 hits and a BB. TJ Large (1-2) picked up the win going 2 scoreless innings. He gave up 2 hits and had 2 Ks. Chih-Hsien Chiang went 2 for 5 with a run scored and a RBI. Mickey Hall went 2 for 3 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Reid Engel went 3 for 4 with 2 RBI.

Player of the Night: Chad Spann who went 3 for 4 with a home run.

Bowden to Portland

The Boston Red Sox are imminently expected to announce the promotion of RHP Michael Bowden from Lancaster (high-A) to Portland (AA). In eight starts Bowden defied both the notoriously offense-happy Cal League and his home park effects, allowing 7 ER in 46.0 IP (a 1.37 ERA) holding opposing batters to a .212 BA (35 hits), striking out 46 while issuing 8 walks. These numbers belie his 2-0 record with the JetHawks, an artificially low number owing itself to unlucky breaks for the Red Sox Minor League Pitcher of the Month for April. Bowden was a 2005 supplemental first round pick for the Red Sox, compensation for losing Derek Lowe in free agency. Presently ranked as the Red Sox #3 prospect by SoxProspects.com, Bowden (20) was voted Pitcher of the Week for April 15-21.

Greenville end 10 game losing streak

5/14 Cup of Coffee: Action on Mother's Day saw Pawtucket edge Toledo 4-3 in 10 innings. Runelvys Hernandez went 5 innings giving up 3 runs on 9 hits and 2 BB. He had 5 Ks. Edgar Martinez threw 2 scoreless innings. He allowed 2 hits and had 3 Ks. Travis Hughes went 2 innings. He did not allow a run on 1 hit and 1 BB. He had 3 Ks. Manny Delcarmen (2-2) got the win throwing 1 scoreless inning. He gave up 1 hit and had 2 Ks. Jacoby Ellsbury went 2 for 4 and scored a run. Joe McEwing went 2 for 5 with a RBI. Chad Spann went 2 for 4. Brandon Moss went 1 for 1 with 2 RBI. He pinch hit with 2 out in the bottom of the 9th and doubled in 2 runs to tie the game.

Binghampton doubled Portland 12-6. Andrew Dobies started and went 5 innings. He gave up 3 runs on 8 hits and 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. Kyle Jackson (3-2) took the loss. He allowed 5 runs, 3 of them earned on 1 hit and 3 BB. He had 1 K. Beau Vaughn threw 1 1/3 innings allowing 4 runs on 5 hits and 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. Mike James pitched a scoreless 9th. He gave up 1 hit. Cory Keylor went 2 for 5 with 2 runs scored and 1 RBI. Andrew Pinckney went 2 for 4 with 2 RBI. Iggy Suarez went 1 for 4 with a home run and 2 RBI.

San Jose defeated Lancaster 5-2. Kris Johnson (2-2) took the loss. He went 5 2/3 innings allowing 5 runs on 6 hits and 2 BB. He had 3 Ks. Chad Rhoades threw 1 1/3 innings. He did not give up a run on 1 hit. He had a K. Jason Blackey threw 1 scoreless inning. He did not give up a hit but had 1 BB. Aaron Bates went 2 for 4. Ryan Khoury went 1 for 4 with a home run.

Greenville defeated Augusta 6-2. Dustin Richardson (2-3) started and earned the win. He went 6 innings allowing 2 runs on 6 hits and 4 BB. He had 3 Ks. Kyle Fernandes threw 1 1/3 scoreless innings. He gave up 1 BB. Josh Papelbon went 1 2/3 scoreless innings. He allwed 2 hit and had 1 K. He lowered his ERA to 1.45. Kris Negron went 3 for 5 and scored 2 runs. Lars Anderson went 1 for 2 with a home run and 3 RBI. Jon Still went 2 for 4 with a RBI. Chih-Hsien Chiang went 2 for 5. Reid Engel went 2 for 5 with a run scored and a RBI.

Player of the Night: Brandon Moss who pinch hit in the bottom of the 9th with 2 outs and doubled in 2 runs to tie the game and send it to extra innings.

Bowden throws 7 one hit scoreless innings

5/13 Cup of Coffee: Saturday saw Toledo edge Pawtucket 3-2. Devern Hansack (1-4) went 6 innings giving up 3 runs on 5 hits and 3 BB. He had 3 Ks. Craig Hansen went 1 scoreless inning giving up 1 hit. Bryan Corey went 1 scoreless inning allowing 1 BB. He had 1 K. Mike Burns threw a perfect ninth. He struck out 1. David Murphy went 1 for 3 with 2 runs scored. Ed Rogers went 2 for 4. Jeff Bailey and Bobby Scales were each 1 for 3 with a RBI.

Binghampton defeated Portland 11-7. Daniel Haigwood started and went 3 2/3 innings giving up 5 runs on 5 hits and 1 BB. He had 8 Ks. Chris Smith went 2 1/3 innings. He allowed 2 runs on 3 hits and 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. Lincoln Holdzkom went 2 innings giving up 3 runs on 2 hits and 3 BB. He had 2 Ks. Mike James went an inning allowing a run on 1 hit. He had 1 K. Corey Keylor went 2 for 5 with a run scored and a RBI. Zach Borowiak went 2 for 3 with a run scored and a RBI. Jed Lowrie went 1 for 4 with a run scored and 2 RBI. Scott Youngbauer and Bryan Pritz each went 1 for 4 with a run scored and a RBI.

Lancaster blanked San Jose 1-0. Michael Bowden (2-0) started and went 7 innings. He did not allow a run and gave up just 1 hit and 1 BB. He had 5 Ks. Kevin Guyette pitched a perfect final 2 frames. He had 2 Ks. Bubba Bell went 2 for 4 and scored the lone run. Zach Daeges went 1 for 4 and drove in the lone run.

Augusta doubled Greenville 8-4. Travis Beazley (3-4) went 5 innings giving up 7 runs on 10 hits. He had 4 Ks. Miguel Socolovich threw 2 innings allowing 1 run on 3 hits and 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. TJ Large threw a scoreless inning giving up a BB. Josh Papelbon threw a perfect 9th and lowered his ERA to 1.59. Kris Negron went 2 for 5 with a RBI. Lars Anderson went 2 for 4. Jon Still went 3 for 5 with a home run. Reid Engel went 2 for 4 and scored a run.

Player of the Night: Michael Bowden who threw 7 innings of 1 hit shutout ball.

An Evening at the Park

On Friday night I had the pleasure of catching a ball game overlooking a green left field wall and a Citgo sign, watching one of the Red Sox’ best young pitchers dominate the Mets. No, I wasn’t at Fenway Park, but at beautiful Hadlock Field in Portland, Maine, catching a glimpse into the Red Sox future.

But you didn’t need a crystal ball or silver Delorean last night to see forward in time, the future of the Boston Red Sox was on display for anyone with a Sea Dogs ticket. On this night, Clay Buchholz took the mound on a warm night to face the Binghamton Mets, and he made history. The twenty-two year old Red Sox phenom has gathered a healthy share of accolades over the last two years, and last night he showed the Mets batters why he won’t be in Double- A for very long.

Over a stretch of three innings, Buchholz was literally unhittable. With spectacular command over four pitches, Buchholz altered speed and location to completely disorientate and dominate the Mets hitters. In the process of retiring eight batters in a row, Buchholz struck out eight batters in a row, breaking Portland’s consecutive strike out record once held by a young Marlins farmhand named Josh Beckett.

But the crowd on hand saw a more impressive performance than even the box score may illustrate. Buchholz’s pitch selection and location produced an inordinate amount of both swings-and-misses and knee-buckling called third strikes. His first four strikeouts were gathered on called third strikes, all on curve balls. During this stretch, batters were ducking away from looping curveballs, and swinging wildly at changeups.

Long time fans in attendance delighted in comparing this young hurler’s make-up against some of the best prospects in Sea Dog history. The fans’ conclusion - “This kid can throw.” Buchholz threw 96 pitches, 62 for strikes. His fastball sat around 92 mph and topped out at 94 mph. His ability to throw first-pitch strikes allowed him to proceed to pound batters with changeups, curveballs, sliders, and two-seam fast balls.

However, Buchholz did show he has room to improve. Batters were able to make good contact at various points throughout the game, and his fastball command began to waiver as the game progressed. However, the final line - 6 2\3 innings 1 earned run, with 11 strikeouts is surely not a bad base to improve upon. He undoubtedly has the tools, mound presence, and natural ability to be something special. At this stage of his career, he seems more advanced then both Jonathan Papelbon and Jon Lester were.

If you love baseball, and can appreciate dominant performances, there’s no reason to wait until he has a “B” on his cap to see top prospect Clay Buchholz pitch. Head on up to Portland and catch a game – its only about a 1:45 drive from Boston, and well worth the trip. The stadium is just a great place to take in a game, and the crowd and the staff are extremely welcoming. But if you want to see Buchholz in AA, you might not have a lot more chances. He might just be in AAA by July and could even see some time in Boston this September at this pace.

Buchholz fans 8 straight setting franchise record

5/12 Cup of Coffee: Friday's action saw Pawtucket edged Toledo 3-2 in 14 innings. Charlie Zink went 7 innings allowing 2 runs on 7 hits and 2 BB. He had 3 Ks. Manny Delcarmen threw 1 scoreless inning giving up 1 hit. He struck out 2. Bryan Corey threw 1 perfect inning. Craig Breslow pitched 3 perfect innings of relief. He had 4 Ks. Travis Hughes (2-1) threw 2 perfect innings to get the win. He had 1 K. David Murphy went 2 for 6 with a run scored and 2 RBI. Bobby Scales went 2 for 6. Ed Rogers went 2 for 6 with the game winning RBI in the bottom of the 14th inning.

Binghampton got by Portland 8-5. Clay Buchholz started and went 6 2/3 innings. He gave up 2 runs on 4 hits and 1 BB. He had 11 Ks including a team record of 8 in a row. Bryce Cox (1-1) took the loss. He allowed 3 runs on 2 hits in 2/3 of an inning. Barry Hertzler threw 1 1/3 innings of relief. He gave up 3 runs on 2 hits and 2 BB. Beau Vaughn threw 1/3 of an inning. He retired the only hitter he faced. Jed Lowrie went 2 for 3. Scott Youngbauer went 2 for 4 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Andrew Pinckney went 1 for 4 with a home run and 2 RBI.

San Jose defeated Lancaster 4-1. Justin Masterson (0-3) started and took the loss giving up 4 runs on 5 hits and 2 BB. He had 7 Ks. Hunter Jones threw 1 scoreless inning of relief. He gave up 1 hit while striking out 1. Chad Rhoades pitched 1 perfect inning of relief. Scott White went 1 for 3. Mark Wagner went 1 for 3 with a run scored. Luis Soto went 1 for 3 with a RBI.

Kannapolis blanked Greenville 6-0. Jordan Craft (0-3) took the loss giving up 4 runs on 4 hits and 2 BB. He had 3 Ks. Adam Blackley went 2 innings giving up 1 run on 1 hit and 3 BB. He had 3 Ks. Eric Beattie went 1 inning giving up 1 run on 1 hit and 2 BB. He had 1 K. TJ Large threw 1 scoreless inning. He gave up 1 hit while striking out 2. Lars Anderson went 1 for 3. Chih-Hsien Chiang went 2 for 4.

Player of the Night: Clay Buchholz who set a Sea Dog record by striking out 8 consecutive Binghampton batters.

Wagner excels in Jethawk loss

5/11 Cup of Coffee: The Pawtucket -Scranton/WB game was postponed.

Binghampton doubled Portland 4-2. Tommy Hottovy (0-4) went 7 innings giving up 4 runs on 8 hits and 2 BB. He had 3 Ks. Kyle Jackson threw a scoreless inning. He gave up 1 BB and had 1 K. Lincoln Holdzkom threw a perfect inning with 2 Ks. Jed Lowrie went 2 for 4. Jeff Corsaletti went 1 for 4 with a run scored. Dusty Brown went 1 for 3 with a RBI. Jay Johnson went 1 for 4 and scored a run.

High Desert doubled the score on Lancaster 14-7. Mike Rozier (1-5) started and went 2 2/3 innings giving up 10 runs on 11 hits. He had 1 K. Tim Cox went 4 innings giving up 4 runs on 5 hits. He did not give up a BB and had 4 Ks. Ismael Casillas threw 2 1/3 innings. He did not allow a run, hit or BB. He had 1 K. Mark Wagner went 4 for 5 with a home run and 6 RBI. Scott White went 2 for 4 and scored a run. Aaron Bates went 1 for 2 with 2 BB and scored 3 times.

Kannapolis defeated Greenville 8-4. Brian Steinocher (1-5) took the loss going 2 innings. He allowed 4 runs on 6 hits. He did not allow a BB and had 7 Ks. Kyle Fernandes went 3 innings giving up 2 runs on 5 hits and a BB. Jorge Rodriquez went 3 innings giving up 2 runs on 4 hits and 2 BB. He had 1 K. Lars Anderson went 2 for 4. Reid Engel went 2 for 4 and had a RBI. Jason Place went 1 for 3 with a home run. Jon Still went 1 for 3 with a run scored.

Player of the Night: Mark Wagner who went 4 for 5 with a home run and 6 RBI.

Bates bolsters to victory

5/10 Cup of Coffee: Scranton/WB defeated Pawtucket 5-4 in 10 innings. Kason Gabbard started and went 4 1/3 innings.He gave up 3 runs on 6 hits and 3 BB. He had 3 Ks. Edgar Martinez went 1 2/3 scoreless innings. He gave up 1 BB and had 1 K. Craig Breslow went 1 1/3 scoreless innings allowing 2 hits. He had 1 K. Travis Hughes went 2/3 of an inning not allowing a run or a hit. Mike Burns (0-2) blew the save and took the loss. He went 1 2/3 innings and gave up 2 runs on 2 hits and 3 BB. Jacoby Ellsbury went 1 for 5 with a run scored. Ed Rogers went 2 for 5. David Murphy went 2 for 3 with a run scored and a RBI. Jeff Bailey went 2 for 5 with 3 RBI. Chad Spann went 2 for 5 and scored a run.

Portland edged Trenton 4-3. Matt Goodson started and went 5 1/3 innings. He gave up 2 runs on 2 hits and 2 BB. He had 6 Ks. Bryce Cox (1-0)blew the save but picked up the win. He went 1 2/3 innings giving up 1 run on 1 hit and 2 BB. Chris Smith picked up the save going 2 perfect innings. He had 1 K. Jay Johnson went 2 for 4 with a run scored and a RBI. Jed Lowrie went 1 for 3 with a run scored and 2 RBI. Cory Keylor went 1 for 3 with a RBI.

Lancaster blasted High Desert 15-6. Mario Pena (1-1) started and went 5 innings. He gave up 3 runs on 8 hits. He did not allow a BB nor did he have a K. Blake Maxwell went 1 1/3 innings allowing 3 runs on 5 hits. Jason Blackey threw the final 2 2/3 innings. He did not allow a run on 1 hit. He fanned 4. Christian Lara went 3 for 4 with a run scored and a RBI. Scott White went 2 for 4 with 3 runs scored and 3 RBI. Aaron Bates went 2 for 4 with a home run, 3 runs scored and 3 RBI. Luis Soto went 3 for 5 with a run scored and 3 RBI.

Kannapolis defeated Greenville 6-1. Chris Jones (1-4) went 3 2/3 innings and took the loss. He gave up 5 runs on 6 hits and 2 BB. He had 4 Ks. Adam Blackley went 2 1/3 scoreless innings. He did not allow a hit or a BB. He had 2 Ks. TJ Large went 1 inning allowing 1 run on 2 hits. Josh Papelbon went 1 inning. He did not allow a run on 1 hit. He lowered his ERA to 1.69. Chih- Hsien Chiang went 2 for 4. Reid Engel went 1 for 3 with a RBI.

Player of the Night: Aaron Bates who went 2 for 4 with a homer, 3 runs scored and 3 RBI.

Lars Anderson goes 4 for 5 in losing cause

5/9 Cup of Coffee: On Tuesday, Scranton/WB defeated Pawtucket 3-1. David Pauley started and took the loss. He allowed 3 runs on 5 hits in 6 innings of work. He gave up 2 BB and had 3 Ks. Craig Hansen threw 1 scoreless inning. He allowed 1 hit. Bryan Corey threw a perfect inning too close the game. Ed Rogers went 1 for 3 with a run scored. Bobby Scales went 1 for 3.

Portland swept both ends of a doubleheader from Trenton. They took the first game 11-7. Andrew Dobies went 4 innings giving up 7 runs on 9 hits and 4 BB. He had 3 Ks. Barry Hertzler threw 2 scoreless innings. He allowed 2 hits and had 1 K. Mike James threw a scoreless final inning. He allowed 2 hits and had 1 K. Jeff Corsaletti went 2 for 3 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Jay Johnson went 2 for 4 with a run scored and 2 RBI. John Otness went 2 for 3 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Eric Crozier went 1 for 3 with a home run and 5 RBI. In the second game, the Sea Dogs won 5-0. John Barnes threw 6 scoreless innings. He allowed 2 hits and 5 BB. He had 2 Ks. Beau Vaughn threw a perfect final frame. Jed Lowrie went 1 for 2 with a run scored. Eric Crozier went 1 for 2 with 2 runs scored and a RBI.

Lancaster edged High Desert 9-8. Kris Johnson went 5 2/3 innings. He allowed 5 runs on 9 hits and 3 BB. He had 4 Ks. Hunter Jones 2/3 of an inning. He allowed 3 runs on 1 hit and 3 BB. Kevin Guyette (3-1) finished off the final 2 2/3 innings. He did not allow a run but gave up a BB. He had 2 Ks. Scott White went 2 for 5 with 2 home runs and 4 RBI. Tony Granadillo went 2 for 4 with a run scored and 2 RBI. Yahmed Yema went 2 for 5 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Luis Soto went 2 for 4 with a run scored and a RBI.

Kannapolis edged Greenville 5-4. Dustin Richardson went 5 innings allowing 3 runs on 5 hits and 5 BB. He had 5 Ks. Miquel Socolovich went 3 innings. He allowed 2 runs on 2 hits and 2 BB. He had 3 Ks. Lars Anderson went 4 for 5 with a run scored. Chih-Hsien Chiang went 2 for 4 with a run scored. Jason Place went 2 for 4 and scored a run.

Player of the Night: Lars Anderson who went 4 for 5 with a run scored

Players of the Week, April 29 - May 5

While putting together a characteristically dominant opening to the 2007 season, RHP Clay Buchholz had consistently fallen short in player of the week voting, no longer, as along with repeat winner Aaron Bates (position player), he has been named SoxProspects.com Player of the Week for April 29-May 5. In his May Day start against the Bowie Baysox (Orioles) Buchholz struck out 9 over seven scoreless innings, surrendering only one hit while walking none. Much has been made of the offense-enhancing park effects of Lancaster's Clear Channel Stadium, making Aaron Bates's .370 (10/27) 3 HR, 9 RBI, 1 double, 5 run, and 4 four BB week all the more impressive as 6 of the 8 games he played in were on the road. Notably, all three homers were hit away from the friendly confines of The Hanger. Bates was SoxProspects.com Player of the Week for April 8-14. On the season Buccholz is 1-1 with a 1.98 ERA, striking out 35 while issuing only 3 walks in 27.1 IP (5 starts), Bates owns a .288/.430/.604 (1.033 OPS) line, hitting 8 HR, 9 doubles, 27 RBI, and one triple in 29 games. Honorable mentions: Brandon Moss (.269 BA, 3 HR, 8 RBI), Michael Bowden (6 IP, 5 H, 0 BB, 9K, 0 ER) and Kason Gabbard (13 IP, 9 H, 3 BB, 12 K, 1 ER).

Haigwood throws 4 scoreless innings in his first start with Portland

5/8 Cup of Coffee: The action was light on Monday with only two of the teams in action. Scranton/WB edged Pawtucket 2-1. Runelvys Hernandez started and went 5 innings. He gave up 2 runs on 2 hits and 2 BB. He had 4 Ks. Manny Delcarmen threw 2 scoreless innings. He did not allow a hit but gave up 2 BB. He had 1 K. Javier Lopez threw a scoreless final frame. He allowed 1 hit and had 2 Ks. Jacoby Ellsbury went 2 for 4 with a RBI. Ed Rogers went 2 for 3.

Portland defeated Trenton 4-1. Daniel Haigwood started his first game in the Sox organization and went 4 scoreless innings. He allowed 3 hits and 2 BB. He fanned 4. Kyle Jackson (3-1) picked up the win going 2 innings. He did not allow a hit but gave up a run on 3 BB. Jose Vaquedano went 2 scoreless innings. He allowed 2 hits and 0 BB. He had 2 Ks. Mike James pitched a perfect ninth to earn the save. Jay Johnson went 2 for 4 and scored a run. Bryan Pritz went 2 for 3 and scored a run. Jed Lowrie went 1 for 4 with a home run. Cory Keylor went 1 for 4 with a run scored and a RBI.

Player of the Night: Daniel Haigwood who in his first start with the Sea Dogs threw 4 scoreless innings.

Bowden pitches 6 scoreless innings in Lancaster loss

5/7 Cup of Coffee: On Sunday, Buffalo defeated Pawtucket 5-3. Abe Alvarez went 6 innings giving up 2 runs on 4 hits and 2 BB. He had 6 Ks. Barry Hertzler went 1 inning. He allowed 1 run on 1 hit and 2 BB. Edgar Martinez threw an inning allowing 2 runs on 2 hits and 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. David Murphy went 2 for 5 and scored a run. He is now hitting .308. Brandon Moss went 3 for 5 with a run scored and a RBI. He is hitting .317. George Kottaras went 2 for 3 with a RBI.

Portland defeated Binghampton 8-3. Clay Buchholz (1-1) started and earned the win. He went 5 innings giving up 2 runs on 6 hits. He did not allow a BB while striking out 8 hitters. Bryce Cox went 2 innings. He allowed 1 run on 2 hits and a BB. Lincoln Holdzkom threw the final 2 innings. He did not allow a run or a hit. He gave up 2 BB and had 3 Ks. Jeff Corsaletti went 3 for 4 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Jed Lowrie went 3 for 5 with a run scored and a RBI. Cory Keylor went 3 for 5. Eric Crozier went 2 for 5 with a run scored and a RBI.

Visalia outscored Lancaster 10-6. Mike Bowden pitched 6 scoreless innings. He allowed 6 hits and 0 BB. He had 4 Ks. Jason Blackey faced 6 hitters without retiring one. He allowed 6 runs on 4 hits and 2 BB. Ismael Casillas (2-2) blew the save and took the loss. He gave up 4 runs on 3 hits and 2 BB. He had 1 K. Tim Cox went 2 1/3 innings. He did not allow a run on 1 hit and a 1 BB. Bubba Bell went 1 for 3 with a run scored and 2 RBI. Zach Daeges went 2 for 3 with 2 RBI. Yahmed Yema went 2 for 4 with a RBI.

Augusta took both ends of a doubleheader from Greenville by scores of 3-2 and 8-2. In the first game, Travis Beazley (3-3) went 5 1/3 innings giving up 3 runs on 6 hits. He had 4 Ks. Kyle Fernandes went the final 1 2/3 frames without allowing a hit. He gave up 1 BB and had 1 K. Reid Engel went 2 for 3. Carlos Fernandes went 1 for 2 with a RBI. In the second contest, Jordan Craft (0-2) started and took the loss. He went 4 innings giving up 3 runs on 6 hits and a BB. He had 3 Ks. Jorge Rodriquez went 1/3 inning. He gave up 4 runs on 3 hits and 2 BB. Josh Papelbon went 1 2/3 scoreless innings. He gave up a BB and had 1 K. Eric Beattie went an inning allowing 1 run on 1 hit and 1 BB. He had 2 Ks. Pedro Vasquez went 2 for 4. Jon Still went 2 for 3.

Player of the Night: Mike Bowden who pitched 6 scoreless innings with 4 Ks.

Ellsbury promoted, Bard to DL

Just days after talk began that a move was imminent, The Boston Red Sox promoted SoxProspects.com # 1 prospect Jacoby Ellsbury to AAA Pawtucket on Friday. In 17 games at Portland (AA), Ellsbury, a 23-year-old left handed batter, hit .452/.518/.644 (33/73) with 10 doubles, 2 triples, and 8 K, stealing 8 bases (1 CS). In his debut game with the Paw Sox he went 1/4 (2 BB, 2 R), his combined average leads the minors at .442.... Lancaster RHP and Red Sox first round selection in the 2006 draft Daniel Bard was placed on the disabled list. “It’s not anything serious–it’s a slight strain,” Red Sox farm director Mike Hazen was quoted as saying in Baseball America. “We’re just shutting him down for 7-to-10 days and it won’t be long before we get him back on the mound.” Bard had struggled in high-A, allowing 15 runs on 21 hits in 13.1 IP and issuing 22 walks.

Hottovy throws 6 scoreless but Sea Dogs lose 1-0

5/6 Cup of Coffee: On Saturday, Buffalo outslugged Pawtucket 15-14. Kason Gabbard went 2/3 of an inning. He had 1 K. Chris Smith went 3 innings allowing 5 runs on 8 hits. He had 2 Ks. Craig Breslow threw 2 2/3 innings. He gave up 1 run on 4 hits and a BB. He had 4 Ks. Bryan Corey went 1 2/3 innings. He did not allow a run or a hit. He had 4 Ks. Craig Hansen faced 7 hitters without retiring anyone. He allowed 7 runs( 4 earned) on 3 hits and a BB. Manny Delcarmen (1-1) blew the save and took the loss. He went 1/3 of an inning allowing 2 runs on 2 hits and 2 BB. Bobby Scales went 2 for 6 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI. Ed Rogers went 2 for 5 with 3 runs scored. David Murphy went 2 for 6 with a RBI. Jeff Bailey went 2 for 3 with a home run, 3 runs scored and 2 RBI. Brandon Moss went 1 for 4 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 4 RBI. George Kottaras went 1 for 3 with a run scored and 3 RBI.

Portland fell 1-0 to Binghampton. Tommy Hottovy went 6 innings giving up 0 runs and only 1 hit. He allowed 3 BB while recording 3 Ks. Beau Vaughn (1-1) took the loss. He went 2 1/3 innings allowing 1 run on 3 hits and 3 BB. He had 2 Ks. Mike James did not record an out. His wild pitch allowed the winning run to score. Jay Johnson, Eric Crozier, and Andrew Pinckney were all 1 for 3.

Lancaster lost both games of a doubleheader to Visalia. The first saw the Jethawks fall 5-4. Justin Masterson went 5 innings. He allowed 4 runs on 10 hits and a BB. He had 3 Ks. Hunter Jones (2-1) took the loss. He went 2 innings giving up 1 run on 3 hits and a BB. He had 2 Ks. Christian Lara went 3 for 4 with 2 RBI. Zach Daeges went 2 for 3 with a RBI. Tony Granadillo went 2 for 2 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. The second game saw the Jethawks lose 6-5. Mike Rozier (1-2) took the loss going 4 1/3 innings. He gave up 5 runs on 8 hits and 3 BB. He had 2 Ks. Blake Maxwell went 2 2/3 innings. He allowed 1 run on 1 hit and 2 BB. He had 1 K. Ryan Khoury went 2 for 4 with a RBI. Bubba Bell went 2 for 4. Chris Turner went 1 for 3 with a home run. Chuck Jeroloman went 1 for 3 with a run scored and 3 RBI.

Greenville's game against Augusta was postponed due to rain.

Player of the Night: Tommy Hottovy who threw 6 innings allowing 0 runs and just 1 hit.

David Murphy goes 4 for 6 to lead Pawtucket

5/5 Cup of Coffee: On Friday, Pawtucket edged Indianapolis 5-4 in 11 innings. Kason Gabbard started and went 7 innings allowing 1 run on 5 hits and 2 BB. He had 7 Ks. Javier Lopez went 1 2/3 innings giving up 2 runs on 1 hit. He had 1 K. Travis Hughes (1-1) pitched the final 2 1/3 innings. He blew the save but earned the victory allowing 1 run on 3 hits and 3 BB. He had 2 Ks. Newly promoted Jacoby Ellsbury went 1 for 4 scoring 2 runs. He also walked twice. David Murphy went 4 for 6 with a run scored and 2 RBI. Joe McEwing went 2 for 4 with a run scored.

Binghampton doubled Portland 6-3. Charlie Zink started and threw 6 innings giving up 3 runs on 6 hits and 3 BB. He had 2 Ks. Kyle Jackson (2-1) took the loss allowing 3 runs on 2 hits and a BB in 2 innings of work. He had 3 Ks. Bryan Pritz went 2 for 4 with a run scored and a RBI. Jeff Natale went 2 for 4 with a RBI.

The Lancaster-Visalia game was postponed due to high winds. Winds of 40-50 mph were deemed unsafe for playing baseball.

Augusta edged Greenville 4-3. Brian Steinocher went 6 innings giving up 2 runs on 3 hits and 3 BB. He had 2 Ks. TJ Large (0-2) blew the save and took the loss. In an inning of work he gave up 2 runs on 3 hits. Adam Blackley threw 2 scoreless innings. He allowed 1 BB and had 5 Ks. Manny Arambarris went 1 for 4 with 2 RBI. Pedro Vasquez went 1 for 3 and scored a run.

Player of the Night: David Murphy who had 4 hits, scored a run and had 2 RBI.

Bell scores 5 runs in Jethawk win

5/4 Cup of Coffee: On Thursday, Indianapolis defeated Pawtucket 9-7 in 10 innings. David Pauley went 6 innings giving up 5 runs on 6 hits and 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. Craig Breslow threw 1 scoreless inning allowing 1 hit while striking out 2. Edgar Martinez went 2 innings giving up 2 runs on 4 hits. He had 1 K. Manny Delcarmen (1-1) took the loss. He allowed 2 runs in the 10th inning. He gave up 2 hits while striking out the side. Bobby Scales went 2 for 5 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Jeff Bailey went 2 for 4 with 4 RBI. Kevin Cash went 2 for 5.

Bowie defeated Portland 7-3. Matt Goodson (1-1)started and took the loss. He lasted 5 innings giving up 5 runs on 4 hits and 3 BB. He had 10 Ks. Barry Hertzler went 2 innings giving up 1 run on 4 hits. Beau Vaughn threw 1 inning allowing 1 run on 2 hits. He fanned 2. Lincoln Holdzkom threw 1 scoreless inning allowing 1 BB. Jacoby Ellsbury went 2 for 4 and scored 2 runs. Jeff Corsaletti went 3 for 5 with a RBI. John Otness went 2 for 4.

Lancaster outslugged Rancho Cucamonga 11-7. Kris Johnson started and went 4 innings. He gave up 5 runs on 5 hits and 3 BB. He had 3 Ks. Kevin Guyette (2-1) picked up the win going 2 2/3 innings. He gave up 2 runs on 2 hits and 3 BB. He had 1 K. Chad Rhoades went the final 2 1/3 innings. He did not allow a run or a hit while walking 2 and striking out 3. Bubba Bell went 3 for 4 with a home run, 5 runs scored and 2 RBI. Aaron Bates went 3 for 5 with a home run and 5 RBI. Tony Granadillo went 3 for 5 and scored a run.

Greenville was leading Asheville 5-0 in the third when the game was called because of rain.

Player of the Night: Bubba Bell who was 3 for 4 with a home run, 5 runs scored and 2 RBI.

Timlin to DL, Hansack called up

RHP Mike Timlin has placed on the 15 day DL by the Boston Red Sox, effective May 3, with tendinitis in his right shoulder. 29-year-old RHP Devern Hansack was called up from AAA Pawtucket to take Timlin's spot. He was active for Thursday evening's game against Seattle, in the bullpen wearing number 46.Hansack had started the 2007 season white hot but has cooled somewhat of late, going 1-3 (12 ER, 28.2 IP) with a 3.77 ERA in five starts. In Hansack's first three starts he pitched 16 innings, allowing 3 ER on 14 hits, while striking out 23. Timlin had been 1-0 with a 6.23 ERA in nine relief appearances (6 ER, 8.2 IP), opponents were batting .361 against him (.349 in 2006). This is his second stint this year on the DL, having been out until April 10 to begin the year.

Pitcher of the Week, April 22-28: Charlie Zink

Tossing 12 IP, allowing only one run, while yielding four hits, and striking out 10 was enough for Portland knuckleballer Charlie Zink to be named the inaugural SoxProspects.com Pitcher of the Week. In two starts against New Hampshire Zink got a win (April 28; 6 IP, 0 ER, 3 H, 2 BB, 5 K) and a no-decision (April 22; 6 IP, 1 ER, 1 H, 5 BB, 5 K). The 27-year-old righty has split time between Portland and Pawtucket for the last three seasons. Lancaster's Michael Bowden, who is making a name for himself in the hitting friendly California League, finished a close second.

Chris Smith's relief effort helps Portland to victory

5/3 Cup of Coffee: Indianapolis defeated Pawtucket 5-1. Jon Lester started and went 3 innings. He gave up 2 runs on 3 hits and 3 BB. He had 4 Ks. He left the game after 63 pitches after developing cramping in his left arm. Bryan Corey went 2 1/3 innings giving up 2 runs on 3 hits. He had 1 K. Javier Lopez went 2 innings allowing 1 run on 3 hits. He had 3 Ks. Travis Hughes pitched the final 1 2/3 innings. He did not allow a run on 2 hits. He struck out 2 hitters. Bobby Scales went 2 for 4. Joe McEwing went 2 for 3. Brandon Moss went 1 for 2 with a home run.

Portland defeated Bowie 9-6. Andrew Dobies (2-0) went 5 innings and earned the victory. He gave up 6 runs on 7 hits and 2 BB. He had 2 Ks. Chris Smith pitched 3 scoreless innings giving up just 1 hit while striking out 3. Mike James pitched a final scoreless inning. He walked 1 and struck out 1. Jacoby Ellsbury went 1 for 3 with a run scored and a RBI. Cory Keylor went 2 for 4 with 2 runs scored and a RBI. Iggy Suarez went 1 for 3 with 2 runs scored.

Lancaster lost 5-2 to Rancho Cucamonga. Mario Pena (0-1) went 3 2/3 innings taking the loss. He gave up 4 runs on 4 hits and 3 BB. Tim Cox threw 3 1/3 innings. He gave up 1 run on 2 hits and 2 BB. Jason Blackey pitched a perfect inning. Bubba Bell went 2 for 4 with a home run. Sal Paniagua went 2 for 4. Aaron Bates went 1 for 3 with a home run. Zach Daeges went 2 for 5.

Greenville fell 7-2 to Asheville. Chris Jones (1-3) started and went 4 1/3 innings. He gave up 5 runs on 11 hits and a BB. He had 6 Ks. TJ Large went 2 2/3 innings. He gave up 2 runs on 2 hits and a BB. He had 2 Ks. Josh Papelbon went 1 perfect inning. Jon Still went 2 for 4 and scored a run.

Player of the Night: Chris Smith who pitched 3 scoreless 1 hit innings of relief

Lester's start cut short

Jon Lester was scheduled to throw 90-100 pitches in his final Pawtucket rehab assignment tonight, but he was forced to leave the game after only 3 innings and 63 pitches, allowing 2 runs. According to Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe, the cause for the early exit was "minor cramping in his left forearm", an injury that does not appear to be serious. Lester's 30-day rehab assignment ends on Friday, when he will likely be optioned to Pawtucket. Lester hopes to make his next scheduled start on normal rest.

Buchholz throws 7 scoreless innings

5/2 Cup of Coffee: Tuesday saw a full slate of games starting at AAA where Indianapolis defeated Pawtucket 5-3. Abe Alvarez (1-3) started and went 5 innings. He gave up 5 runs on 8 hits and 3 BB. He had 2 Ks. Mike Burns pitched 2 scoreless innings allowing 2 hits. He fanned 4. Craig Breslow threw 1 perfect inning. Manny Delcarmen pitched the final inning. He did not allow a run. He gave up 1 hit and had 1 K. David Murphy raised his BA to .303 going 3 for 4 scoring 1 run. Jeff Bailey went 2 for 5. Brandon Moss went 1 for 3 with a home run and 2 RBI.

Portland defeated Bowie 4-1. Clay Buchholz retired the first 18 batters he faced while pitching 7 shutout innings. He gave up just 1 hit and did not allow a BB. He struck out 9. Kyle Jackson (2-0) went the final 2 innings. He blew the save but got credit for the win. He allowed 1 run on 1 hit and a BB. He had 3 Ks. Cory Keylor went 2 for 3 with a home run 2 runs scored and 3 RBI. Jed Lowrie went 1 for 3 with a RBI. Jeff Natale went 1 for 3 and scored a run.

Lancaster blanked Rancho Cucamonga 2-0 in 13 innings. Mike Bowden started and threw 6 scoreless innings. He gave up 5 hits and had 9 Ks. Hunter Jones threw 2 scoreless innings. He gave up 1 BB and had 3 Ks. Blake Maxwell (3-1) went 4 scoreless innings to pick up the win. He allowed 2 hits and had 2 Ks. Ismael Casillas threw 1 scoreless inning. He gave up 1 BB and had 1 K. Ryan Khoury went 3 for 6 and scored a run. Zach Daeges went 2 for 6.

Asheville defeated Greenville 8-1. Travis Beazley started and took the loss. He gave up 4 runs on 8 hits. He did not allow a BB and had 7 Ks. Kyle Fernandes pitched the final 4 innings. He allowed 4 runs on 5 hits and a BB. He had 2 Ks. Manny Arambarris went 3 for 4. Mickey Hall went 1 for 3 and scored a run.

Player of the Night: Clay Buchholz who retired the first 18 hitters he faced before giving up a lone hit in the 7th. He had 9 Ks as well.

Player of the Week, April 22-28: Bubba Bell

In the closest week yet (in terms of votes) Bubba Bell edged Brandon Moss by five votes to be named SoxProspects.com Player of the Week. Bell hit a spectacular .522 (12/23) with two HR and two doubles, knocking in 10 runs and scoring 10 of his own. Lancaster's Clear Channel stadium is quickly becoming notorious for its park effects, but Bell went .545 (6/11) on the road at Bakersfield April 27-28. Moss was impressive in limited action (rain out), batting .429 with two HR, a double, and 5 RBI.

Player/Pitcher of the Month: April 2007

The SoxProspects.com moderators have selected Bubba Bell as the SoxProspects.com Player of the Month for April 2007. While there were many deserving candidates, Bell stood out, hitting .382/.476/.706 with 8 HRs, 33 RBIs, and stealing 4 bases for Lancaster, leading the California League in HRS, SLG, RBI, TBs, and hits. With his solild performance, the 24-year old centerfielder may have earned himself a promotion to AA in the near future.

Dustin Richardson is your Pitcher of the Month for April 2007, narrowly edging out Michael Bowden. In 5 starts and 24.2 innings for the Greenville Drive, the athletic lefty had an ERA of 1.82, striking out 35 and walking only 11. Due mostly to poor run support, Richardson managed only 1 win in his 5 starts. There is also some speculation that Richardson may have earned himself a promotion to Lancaster not too far down the road.

Greenville stages huge comeback win

5/1 Cup of Coffee: On Monday, Pawtucket lost 12-4 to Buffalo. Devern Hansack (1-3) went 6 1/3 innings giving up 5 runs on 6 hits and 2 BB. He had 8 Ks. Edgar Martinez went 1 2/3 innings allowing 3 runs on 2 hits and 2 BB. He had 3 Ks. Craig Hansen gave up 4 runs on 3 hits and 2 BB in 2/3 of an inning. Bryan Corey retired the only batter he faced. David Murphy went 2 for 4 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI. He is now hitting .278. Brandon Moss went 2 for 4 with a RBI and is now hitting .316.

Portland was not scheduled to play yesterday.

Bakersfield defeated Lancaster 8-6. Mike Rozier started and went 6 innings. He gave up 4 runs on 8 hits and 3 BB. He had 3 KS. Kevin Guyette allowed a run on 1 hit and 1 BB in 2 innings of work. He had 1 K. Chad Rhoades (2-1) blew the save and took the loss. He gave up 3 runs on 2 hits and 1 BB in 1/3 of an inning. Jay Johnson went 2 for 5 with a RBI. Aaron Bates went 3 for 5 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 2 RBI. Christian Lara went 2 for 4 and scored a run.

Greenville who at one point in the game trailed 7-0 came from behind to defeat Asheville 8-7. Jordan Craft started but went only 2/3 of an inning. He gave up 4 runs on 3 hits and a BB. He had 2 Ks. Adam Blackley went 2 1/3 innings giving up 3 runs on 3 hits and 3 BB. He had 2 Ks. Miguel Socolovich threw 3 scoreless innings. He allowed 1 BB while striking out 5. Eric Beattie went 1/3 of an inning giving up 1 BB but no runs. TJ Large went a scoreless 2/3 of an inning allowing 1 hit. Josh Papelbon (1-0) pitched 2 perfect innings fanning 3. Kris Negron went 3 for 5 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI. Manny Arambarris went 3 for 5 with 3 RBI. Jason Place and Mickey Hall each went 2 for 4 and scored a run. Pedro Vasquez went 3 for 4 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI.

Player of the Night: Josh Papelbon who threw 2 perfect innings of relief to earn his first win of the season.