August 9, 2011 at 9:33 AM
Players of the Week, 8/1-8/7: Kolbrin Vitek & Chris Hernandez
Hernandez, 22, was selected by the Red Sox in the 7th round of the 2010 amateur draft. The 6'1", left-hander has impressed in his first full season as a professional, compiling a 10-5 record with a 2.39 ERA in 21 starts this season for Salem. In his start August 2 against the Potomac Nationals (WAS), Hernandez sparkled, hurling 7.0 shutout innings, allowing just a hit and a walk while striking out 5. The impressive outing was nothing new for Hernandez who has gone 5-1 with a 1.68 ERA in 9 starts since the All-Star break.
Vitek, 22, was a 1st round selection in last year's amateur draft. After having a solid debut season split between Lowell and Greenville in 2010, Vitek has continued to hit well in Salem this season. Last week, Vitek hit .500/.545/.800 with a home run, 3 doubles, 5 runs scored and 4 RBI in 5 games. Vitek has wielded an impressive bat since the All-Star break, hitting .327/.393/.428 with 2 home runs and 12 RBI in 39 games. Through August 8, Vitek is hitting .289/.356/.381 with 2 home runs, 20 doubles, 6 triples and 34 RBI this season for Salem.