June 30, 2014 at 6:53 PM
Sean Coyle added to Futures Game roster
Portland second baseman Sean Coyle has been added to the US roster for the Futures Game, per Sea Dogs Assistant GM Chris Cameron. He will take the place of Mookie Betts, who is no longer eligible after his promotion to Boston on Saturday. The Futures Game will take place at Minnesota's Target Field on Sunday, July 14 as part of All-Star festivities.
Coyle, who earlier in the day was named the Eastern League Player of the Week, is having an excellent season for the Sea Dogs. He leads the circuit in both batting average (.363) and OPS (1.059) as part of an attack that has Portland running away with a 54-27 record. Coyle has spent most of his time at second base, but has also seen significant playing time at third base and designated hitter as he split time with then-teammate Betts for the first two months.
The announcement highlights a resurgence for Coyle, who appeared in only 60 games in an inury-plagued 2013. Along with missing time with injuries to his thumb, knee, and elbow, Coyle hit only .241 while repeating the Carolina League. After a solid start to 2014, he then missed four weeks with a hamstring injury. Since his activation, however, he has been dominant, crushing Eastern League pitching to the tune of .385/.472/.680 in 142 plate appearances.
Coyle will join Portland teammate Henry Owens on the Team USA.
Photo Credit: Sean Coyle by Kelly O'Connor