The Pipeline

Royals on the Farm 9/20 -- Not quite enough

2011-09-20T21:41:00.002-05:00

Luis Mendoza with the win tonight for KC! Hope he can finish strong at the MLB level.

AAA - Omaha: Columbus 8, Storm Chasers 3

2B Zawadzki 2-4
RF Cain 1-4, BB, 3B, 2 RBI, RS
1B Whittleman 1-3, BB, RBI, 2 K
SS Falu 0-2, 3 BB, RS
LF Lough 1-5, RS
DH Ka'aihue 1-4, K
Omaha stranded 10.

O'Sullivan 3 IP, 6 ER, 6 H, BB, HRA, WP -- L, 0-1, 18.00 ERA
Lebron 3 IP, ER, 3 H, 4 K, WP
Sisk IP, H
Herrera IP, ER, H, K, HRA

* The best Omaha season in 21 years ended unfortunately Tuesday as the PCL champs couldn't keep the early momentum and the Clippers earned a second straight AAA Championship. Clippers SP Joe Martinez got off to a rough beginning as Lorenzo Cain ripped a 2-run triple and scored on a John Whittleman single to give Omaha a 3-0 lead. The Chasers stranded 2 in the 2nd and Sean O'Sullivan gave up a 2-out 3-run homer to C Luke Carlin to tie it in the bottom of the inning. Columbus scratched out 3 more runs in the 3rd and, after Willy Lebron took over in the 4th, another RBI single made it 7-3 Clippers. Omaha stranded 2 in both the 5th and 8th. Kelvin Herrera served up a solo homer to 1B Beau Mills in the 8th and the Chasers stranded 2 more in the 9th. Martinez went 7 innings before Chen Lee pitched the final 2 scoreless frames. 1B Clint Robinson didn't play in the game because of a sports hernia.

That's another season in the books, my sixth full season working up the reports. If you're reading it for the first time or the 500th time, thanks.

Royals on the Farm 9/19

2011-09-19T19:20:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: off day

* The final Royals' minors game of the 2011 season will take place Tuesday in Albuquerque as Sean O'Sullivan starts for Omaha in the AAA Championship Game versus the Columbus Clippers (88-56, AAA Indians) and their starter, Mitch Talbot. Topeka native Jerad Head is a standout on the Clippers' roster, and also on the squad is former Omaha C Paul Phillips. Columbus won the AAA Championship Game in 2010.

Royals on the Farm 9/16 -- Storm Chasers catch a title

2011-09-16T23:22:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 11, Sacramento 6

2B Zawadzki 4-5, 2B (2), 3 RBI (5), RS -- .400
LF Lough 2-6, HR, 2 RBI (5), K, 2 RS -- .314
1B Ka'aihue 2-5, 2B (2), 2 RBI (8), 2 K, RS -- .214
SS Falu 2-5, 2B (2), RBI (4), 2 RS -- .286
DH Robinson 2-3, 2 BB, 2 2B (3), RS -- .385
C Pina 1-3, 2 BB, 2B (2), RBI (8), 2 RS -- .368
CF Dyson 1-5, BB, RBI (6), RS -- .212
RF Cain 0-4, HBP, K -- .438

Montgomery 5 IP, 3 H, 3 BB, 6 K -- W, 1-0, 5.63 ERA, 94 pitches, good enough, ends season with good start
Pucetas 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 3 H, BB, K, WP -- 12.00 ERA
Miner IP, 2 ER, 3 H, BB -- 3.60 ERA
Sisk 1 1/3 IP, 2 K -- 0.00 ERA
Herrera IP, ER, H, BB, HRA -- 1.80 ERA

* Omaha made it another year with a team title in the Royals' minors as they swept the RiverCats in Sacramento in Friday. Mike Montgomery stranded 2 in the 1st but Manuel Pina and Lance Zawadzki hit back-to-back RBI doubles in the 2nd to take the lead. Omaha left the bases loaded in the 3rd and then added 4 runs in the 5th on a Kila Ka'aihue RBI single, Irving Falu RBI double and 2-run Zawadzki single to make it 6-0. Montgomery stranded 2 more in the 5th, then handed the ball to Kevin Pucetas in the 6th. David Lough clubbed a 2-run homer in the 6th to give Pucetas an 8-0 lead. Things got a little shaky from there as Pucetas gave up 3 runs before getting pulled. An error and Jarrod Dyson RBI single made it 10-3 in the 7th, and Zach Miner allowed 2 runs in the bottom of the inning to cut it to 10-5. Ka'aihue doubled in a run in the 8th to keep the pressure on, and Kelvin Herrera gave up a leadoff homer in the 9th before finishing it. The win puts Omaha in the AAA Championship Game Tuesday in Albuquerque versus the Columbus Clippers (AAA Indians). Luis Mendoza was named PCL Postseason MVP to finish a great season, which I assume will actually continue with an MLB start or two.

No concrete plans at this point on how to finish up the season, since I've done all the stat wraps. I'll probably file one more report Tuesday, then may add a top prospects list later. In any event, thanks for reading this season.

Royals on the Farm 9/15 -- one last off day

2011-09-15T19:53:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: off day

* Mike Montgomery will get a chance to close out the series with the start Friday in game 3.

Royals on the Farm 9/14 -- Omaha makes best of home field

2011-09-14T22:19:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 15, Sacramento 4

CF Dyson 4-6, 2B, HR, 4 RBI (5), 3 RS, SB -- .214
DH Robinson 3-5, BB, 2B, 2 RBI (5), RS -- .348
LF Lough 3-5, BB, 2B, 2 RBI (3), 3 RS -- .310
RF Cain 2-5, SF, 2B (3), RBI (4), 3 K, RS -- .500
SS Falu 2-4, S, 2B, RBI (3), 2 RS -- .261
3B Mertins 2-4, BB, RBI (2), 2 RS -- .333
C Pina 1-3, 2 BB, 2 RBI (7), K, RS -- .375
2B Zawadzki 1-5, RBI (2), 2 RS -- .200
1B Ka'aihue 0-5, 5 K -- .174, platinum sombrero?

Mazzaro 5 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, 4 BB, 2 K, HRA, WP -- W, 2-0, 3.97 ERA
Pucetas IP, ER, 2 H, BB -- 3.86 ERA
Sisk IP, 2 K -- 0.00 ERA
Miner IP, K -- 0.00 ERA
Castaneda IP, H, BB -- 0.00 ERA

* Hopefully Omaha saved some runs for the road trip to California. The Chasers shrugged off a 3-0 deficit early to drub the RiverCats Wednesday and take a 2-0 series lead. A 2-run homer was part of a 3-run 1st off Vin Mazzaro as the 'Cats took the lead. Lorenzo Cain hit a sac fly in the 1st and Lance Zawadzki singled in a run in the 2nd to quickly cut the lead to 3-2. With 2 out and 2 on in the 3rd, Omaha took command as Manuel Pina hit a 2-run single, an error scored a run and Kurt Mertins and Jarrod Dyson hit RBI singles to make it 7-3. Mazzaro left the bases loaded in the 4th and Kevin Pucetas allowed a run in the 6th. Clint Robinson singled in a run and Irving Falu squeeze bunted home a run in the 6th to make it 9-4. David Lough added a 2-run single and Robinson hit an RBI groundout as Omaha poured it on in the 7th. Dyson finished the scoring with a 3-run blast in the 8th for his 1st playoff homer. The teams have Thursday off before picking up Friday in Sacramento.

Royals on the Farm 9/13 -- Omaha takes game 1

2011-09-13T21:37:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 3, Sacramento 2

RF Cain 3-4, 3B (2), RBI (3) -- .522
SS Falu 1-4, RBI (2) -- .211
2B Zawadzki 1-4, 2B, RBI, K -- .200
LF Lough 1-4, RS -- .250
DH Robinson 0-2, 2 BB, K -- .278

Mendoza 7 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 4 BB, 8 K, HRA, WP -- W, 2-0, 1.29 ERA
Herrera 2 IP, 2 K -- SV, 1, 0.00 ERA

* A back-and-forth game ended up going the way of the Chasers as Luis Mendoza picked up his 2nd 2011 playoff win. Omaha loaded the bases with 1 out in the 1st but only got a run on an Irving Falu single before leaving 'em loaded. The Chasers wasted a Lorenzo Cain leadoff triple in the 3rd, and Mendoza's fledgling no-hitter was broken up by a solo homer in the 4th. The RiverCats got a go-ahead RBI double in the 6th. Lance Zawadzki came through with a 2-out RBI double to tie it in the 6th, but was thrown out at third on the play to end the inning. Mendoza stranded 2 in the 7th and, after a 2-out David Lough single in the bottom of the inning, a Cain single scored Lough from first to make it 3-2 Omaha. Kelvin Herrera retired all 6 he faced to lock down the victory for the Chasers. Omaha leads the best-of-5, 1-0. Game 2 is Wednesday with Vin Mazzaro starting.

Royals on the Farm 9/12

2011-09-12T18:29:00.001-05:00

AAA - Omaha: off day

* Omaha will welcome the Sacramento RiverCats (88-56 reg. season, AAA A's) for the first game of the best-of-5 on Tuesday. Luis Mendoza will start. The teams split a 4-game set in the regular season with 4 narrow margins of victory.

Royals on the Farm 9/11 -- Cougars done

2011-09-11T10:48:00.005-05:00

Put me in the camp of people who can't believe it's already been 10 years since one horrible Tuesday. Thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of those killed in New York City, D.C. and Pennsylvania, and those who have lost their lives fighting the war on terror since that day. Rarely in my life have I felt as raw of emotions as I did around that time...I think it's silly to say "never forget" because if you were alive and cognizant on that day, how could you ever forget?

AAA - Omaha: off day

* Reno and Sacramento are headed to a cutthroat game 5 today, so the Chasers will know later who they'll face in Tuesday's game 1. The first 2 games are set for Omaha with games 3 (and 4 and 5, if necessary) at either the D-Backs or A's affiliate.

A - Kane County: Quad Cities 6, Cougars 5

C David 1-4, HR, RBI, 2 K, PB, RS -- .143
1B Kuebler 1-3, 3B, 2 RBI, K, RS -- .133
2B Franco 1-3, BB, HR (2), RBI (3), K, RS, CS -- .176
DH Espinal 0-2, SF, RBI, K -- .000
LF Fletcher 0-4, 2 K -- .105
3B Cuthbert 0-4, 3 K -- .211
CF Eibner 0-3, BB, 2 K, RS, SB -- .176

J. Mitchell 8 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 4 H, 9 K, WP -- 1.13 ERA
Boruff 1/3 IP, 2 ER, H, BB, WP -- 13.50 ERA
A. Cruz 0 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, HRA -- BS, 1, L, 0-1, 6.00 ERA, gave up walkoff 3-run homer

* Kane County snatched defeat from the jaws of victory as the 2011 season came to an abrupt end on Sunday. The Cougars had a 5-0 lead in the 8th with an eye on a Monday game 3, but it was not to be. Jason Mitchell had a great start, and got support from a 2nd inning solo homer by Kevin David and 3 runs in the 5th on a 2-run Jake Kuebler triple and Yowill Espinal sac fly. Angel Franco ripped a solo homer in the 8th for his 2nd of the playoffs and Mitchell had a 5-0 shutout going. An RBI double and run-scoring passed ball ended the shutout, but Chase Boruff was handed a 5-2 lead in the 9th. The Bandits had 1 out and a runner at third when Boruff allowed an RBI single and was yanked for Antonio Cruz. Cruz allowed a single, then served up a walkoff 3-run homer to CF Nicholas Longmire to end it.

Royals on the Farm 9/10 -- Kila puts Omaha in PCL Champ Series

2011-09-10T18:47:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 4, Round Rock 2 (10)

LF Lough 2-5 -- .250
1B Ka'aihue 1-3, BB, S, walkoff HR, 2 RBI (6), 2 RS -- .267, Ghostface!
3B Arias 1-3, BB, 2B (2), RBI, K -- .375
C Clark 1-4, RBI, 2 K -- .250
RF Cain 1-4, BB, 2B (2) -- .474
DH Robinson 1-4, BB, 2 RS -- .313

O'Sullivan 8 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 2 H, BB, 7 K, HRA -- 1.13 ERA
Sisk 2/3 IP, 2 BB, K -- 0.00 ERA
Pucetas 1 1/3 IP, K -- W, 1-0, 0.00 ERA

* Kila Ka'aihue used one swing of the bat to put Omaha in the Pacific Coast League Championship Series. Cody Clark singled in a run in the 2nd and Sean O'Sullivan took a perfect game into the 7th. Joaquin Arias doubled Ka'aihue home in the 6th to make it 2-0. O'Sullivan issued a walk in the 7th to spoil the perfecto but kept the no-hitter intact until 3B Luis Cruz tied it with a 2-run homer in the 8th. Kevin Pucetas stranded 2 in the 9th and, after a 1-out Clint Robinson walk in the 10th, Kila laid the Express to rest with a 2-run bomb off the right foul pole. Omaha moves on to the best-of-5 PCL Championship Series versus either Reno or Sacramento. Reno leads that series, 2 games to 1, going into game 4 today. The Championship Series will start Tuesday.

AA - NW Arkansas: Arkansas 9, Naturals 5

CF Orlando 3-4, K, 2 RS -- .333
2B Bianchi 2-4, 2B, 2 RBI, RS, CS -- .286
DH Smith 1-4, HR, RBI (2), K, RS -- .200
C Eigsti 0-2, BB, RBI -- .000
SS Colon 1-5, E -- .067, not his best in the playoffs
RF Myers 0-3, HBP, 2 K, E -- .100, ditto

Jeffress 3 2/3 IP, 6 R (3 ER), 6 H, 3 BB, 3 K, HRA, 2 WP, E -- L, 0-1, 7.36 ERA, had a bad feeling it would go this way
Volz 1 1/3 IP, ER, 2 H, K, HRA, pickoff -- 2.25 ERA
Baumann 2 IP, H, 2 K -- 0.00 ERA
Dennick IP, 2 ER, 3 H, BB -- 18.00 ERA
Dobies IP, BB -- 0.00 ERA

* And then there were 2. The NW Arkansas Naturals will not get a chance to repeat as Texas League champs, as Arkansas battered Jeremy Jeffress and didn't look back Saturday. Jeffress got out to a rough start as 3B Luis Jimenez hammered a 3-run homer in the 1st. NWA stranded 2 in the 3rd and the Travs chased Jeffress with a 3-run 4th. Tim Smith led off the Naturals 4th with his 1st playoff homer and a wild pitch and Jeff Bianchi groundout added runs to trim it to 6-3. Jimenez clubbed his 2nd homer of the game in the 5th off Kendal Volz. Bianchi hit an RBI double and Ryan Eigsti drove in a run with a groundout in the 6th to cut it to 7-5. Ryan Dennick gave up 2 RBI doubles in the 8th and the Naturals didn't threaten any further comebacks.

A - Kane County: Quad Cities 7, Cougars 0 (4-hitter)

3B Cuthbert 2-3 -- .267
CF Eibner 1-3 -- .214
SS Calixte 1-3 -- .167
LF Fletcher 0-4, 2 K, assist at second -- .133

L. Perez 4 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, K, HRA -- L, 0-1, 9.00 ERA
Garrido 2 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, BB, K -- 6.75 ERA
Carl 2 1/3 IP, ER, 3 H, 4 K -- 4.15 ERA

* It was all Bandits in Saturday's game 1 as SP Trevor Rosenthal pitched a complete-game shutout. Quad Cities got the only run they needed in the 2nd, then added 2 in the 3rd and 1 in the 4th. KC stranded 2 in the 2nd, and wouldn't threaten again. The Bandits polished it off with 2 in the 7th and 1 in the 9th. The series shifts to Quad Cities for Sunday's must-win game 2 for the Cougars. Jason Mitchell will start.

Royals on the Farm 9/9 -- Judgment night: Cougars move on, Nats stay alive

2011-09-09T19:44:00.005-05:00

Say what you will about Judgment Night, the Emilio Estevez/Cuba Gooding Jr./Denis Leary movie from the '90s, but that was a great soundtrack.

AAA - Omaha: Round Rock 9, Storm Chasers 8 (11)

RF Cain 5-6, 2B, K, 3 RS -- .533, GIVE 'EM A DOSE!
1B Ka'aihue 2-3, BB, HBP, 2B, HR, 4 RBI, K, RS -- .250, vintage Kila game
3B-1B Arias 2-6, 2B, K, RS, E -- .385
LF Lough 1-6, RBI, 3 K, RS, assist at home -- .200
DH Robinson 1-4, 2 BB, RBI (3), 2 K, RS -- .333
C Pina 1-3, 2 BB, RBI (5) -- .444
SS Falu 0-4, S, SF, RBI -- .182
Omaha stranded 11.

Montgomery 3 IP, 5 ER, 6 H, 4 BB, 3 K, HRA, WP -- 15.00 ERA, hasn't seemed to settle in at AAA all season
Tejeda 2 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, 2 K -- 4.50 ERA
Castaneda 3 IP, H, K -- 0.00 ERA, nice
Miner 3 IP, 3 UER, 5 H, BB, 2 K -- L, 0-1, 0.00 ERA

* The Chasers gave Round Rock all they could, but the Express lived to play another day on Friday. Mike Montgomery had a start to forget, but David Lough kept him off the hook early with an assist at the plate to end the Express 2nd. A Chad Tracy grand slam keyed a 5-run Round Rock 3rd off Montgomery. Omaha started digging itself out slowly as Lough hit an RBI groundout in the 3rd, but Round Rock got the run back in the 5th. Kila Ka'aihue made his presence felt with a 2-run homer in the 6th and Manny Pina singled in a run to trim it to 6-4. Ka'aihue came back up in the 7th and clipped a clutch 2-run double to tie the game. Zach Miner got a bases-loaded double play to escape the 10th, and Mike Jirschele's decision to pinch run for Kila with Lance Zawadzki in the bottom of the 10th would factor in later. Omaha left the bases loaded in the inning and 2 Chaser errors in the 11th helped Round Rock grab a 9-6 lead. Clint Robinson singled in a run in the bottom of the frame and Zawadzki, hitting in Ka'aihue's place, popped out before an Irving Falu sac fly cut the lead to 1. Joaquin Arias struck out to end it, tho. Omaha will try to drive a stake into the Express' hearts Saturday as Sean O'Sullivan starts. Omaha GM Martie Cordaro was named PCL Exec of the Year on Friday. That's the first Omaha rep to be so named since 1990.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 3, Arkansas 1

1B Romak 1-4, RBI -- .111
RF Myers 0-1, 3 BB, RBI -- .143
LF Robinson 1-4, K, RS -- .182
DH T. Smith 1-3, BB, 2 RS, SB -- .182

M. Santiago 6 IP, UER, 4 H, 4 BB, 2 K -- W, 1-0, 0.00 ERA
Lafferty IP, BB -- 0.00 ERA
Hardy 2 IP, K -- SV, 1, 3.38 ERA

* The Naturals offense finally stepped up to reward a third straight good start and stay alive in the Texas League playoffs. Mario Santiago allowed a run in the 1st to start on a sour note, but Jamie Romak hit a 2-out RBI single in the bottom of the inning to tie it. Derrick Robinson scored on a wild pitch in the 5th to make it 2-1 NWA. Wil Myers took a bases-loaded walk in the 8th and Blaine Hardy finished it for his 1st save of the postseason. The Travs will have another chance to finish off the Naturals Saturday. Jeremy Jeffress will start.

A - Kane County: Cougars 3, Burlington 2

CF Eibner 1-4, 3B, RBI, 3 K -- .182
LF Fletcher 1-4, 2B, RBI (2), 2 K, RS -- .182
2B Franco 1-4, 3B, RBI (2) -- .200
3B Cuthbert 0-4, K, E -- .167

Adam 5 2/3 IP, 2 UER, 4 H, 5 K -- W, 1-0, 0.00 ERA
Rivers 2 IP, H, K -- 0.00 ERA
Rogers 1/3 IP, K -- 0.00 ERA
Boruff IP, BB -- SV, 1, 0.00 ERA

* The Cougars became the first Royals affiliate to advance in the 2011 postseason with a narrow win over the former Royals affiliate, the Bees. Brian Fletcher got it started with an RBI double in the 4th and Brett Eibner tripled him home to give Jason Adam a 2-0 lead. Angel Franco added an RBI triple in the 5th to make it 3-0. Burlington's only runs came on 1 play in the 6th as Orlando Calixte and Kevin David made errors and 2 runs scored to cut the lead to 1. Nick Rogers stranded the tying run at third in the 8th and Chase Boruff worked around a walk in the 9th for his 1st save and the series win. The Cougars will take on the Quad Cities River Bandits (A Cardinals) in a best-of-3 series starting Saturday in Elfstrom Stadium. Leondy Perez will start game 1.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Orem 17, Chukars 9 (Thu.)

3B Mateo 3-4, BB, 3B (4), HR (4), 4 RBI (40), 2 RS -- .348, double shy of cycle
RF Davis 2-5, HR (9), 3 RBI (42), 3 K, RS, E (3) -- .326
LF Fradejas 2-3, BB, RS -- .310
C T. Smith 1-4, HR, RBI (5), K, 2 RS -- .192
2B Piterson 0-4, HBP, RBI (15), RS, 2 E (8) -- .298
DH Gallagher 1-5, RS -- .200
SS DelGuidice 1-5, 2B (7), 2 K -- .355

A. Brooks 4 2/3 IP, 6 ER, 10 H, 7 K -- L, 6-2, 3.84 ERA, not his best night, but 7 K/0 BB is good
Penny 1 1/3 IP, 9 R (8 ER), 7 H, BB, HRA -- 9.84 ERA, yowch
Fassold IP, 2 R (1 ER), 3 H, BB -- 4.24 ERA
Avinazar IP H, 2 K -- 8.58 ERA

* The Chukars went out with a bang on Thursday, but Orem made most of the noise in a runaway win. The Owlz started it with 3 runs in the 2nd off Aaron Brooks, and they scored 3 again in the 5th to make it 6-0 and chase Brooks from his final Chukars start. Daniel Mateo got IF on the board with his 4th homer of the season in the 6th, but Orem scored 4 that inning off Robert Penny to make it 10-1. Luis Piterson took a bases-loaded HBP in the 7th and Mateo ripped a 3-run triple to cut it to 10-5. The hole was dug deeper, however, as the Owlz hammered out 7 runs off Penny and Cody Fassold in the 7th. Tyler Smith hit his 1st pro homer in the 8th, and the Chukars tacked on 3 runs in the 9th on Runey Davis' 9th homer to make the final score 17-9. The Chukars finished 16-22 in the second half and 33-43 overall.

OPS rundown
OF Runey Davis 1.012 -- .326/.422/.591, 42 RS, 18 2B, 3 3B, 9 HR, 42 RBI, 28 BB/72 K, 7/11 SB, 3 E in 58 G/193 ABs -- hit his stride with Chukars after two unremarkable years in Cubs' system
OF Chris Elder .943 -- .289/.344/.599, 28 RS, 9 2B, 4 3B, 9 HR, 27 RBI, 12 BB/26 K, 1/3 SB, 1 E in 36 G/142 ABs -- nice pro debut
IF Mike Liberto .881 -- .348/.435/.446, 16 RS, 5 2B, 2 3B, 8 RBI, 13 BB/12 K, 8/10 SB, 5 E in 26 G/92 ABs -- his best line of any of his 3 stops in 2011 (A, A-Adv., Rookie) so it makes sense
1B Richard Espy .880 -- .318/.391/.489, 43 RS, 17 2B, 3B, 7 HR, 39 RBI, 20 BB/59 K, 2/3 SB, 9 E in 62 G/233 ABs -- solid debut for one of the Eazy Es along with Elder and Edul Escobar
IF Daniel Mateo .867 -- .348/.389/.478, 33 RS, 9 2B, 4 3B, 4 HR, 40 RBI, 17 BB/43 K, 1/2 SB, 9 E in 56 G/224 ABs -- when he was on was more than the 5th best hitter on the team
Others...OF Justin Fradejas .843 (.310/.414/.429, good pro debut for non-drafted FA)...1B Henry Moreno .838 (11 HR led team)...SS Mike Antonio .829 (only 8 games)...IF Nick DelGuidice .827 (.355/.359/.468, 7 2B, 1 BB/11 K, only 17 games, was still finding his Pioneer League legs)...OF Tyler Chism .771 (solid debut, 260 ABs led team)...3B Mark Threlkeld .755...C Edul Escobar .740...OF Darian Sandford .602...C Tyler Smith .581...C Cameron Gallagher .573 (only 8 games)

WHIP rundown
Edwin Carl 0.61 -- 3-1, 1.36, 5 SV, 3 BB/71 K in 21 G/33 IP -- maybe the craziest line in my 6 years of the reports, now he just needs to figure it out in A-ball
Aaron Brooks 1.22 -- 6-2, 3.84, 7 HRA, 8 BB/73 K in 15 G (13 starts) and 79 2/3 IP -- that's a pretty great K/BB too, great pro debut
Nathan Johnson 1.22 -- 0-1, 4.22, 2 SV, 8 HRA, 9 BB/26 K in 14 G/32 IP -- solid, if unspectacular, pen work
Brian Peacock 1.26 -- 5-5, 4.48, 1 SV, 7 HRA, 21 BB/89 K in 15 G (14 starts) and 74 1/3 IP -- hopefully he gets shot at A ball along with Brooks in 2012
Brennon Martin 1.27 -- 4-6, 4.02, 13 HRA, 9 BB/75 K in 15 starts/87 1/3 IP -- hit the zone a little TOO much, great K/BB but 13 dingers allowed
Others...Mike Giovenco 1.36 (1.64 ERA in only 11 IP)...Spencer Patton 1.44 (15 BB/56 K in 39 2/3 IP)...Cody Fassold 1.63 (4 SV, 13 BB/27 K in 23 1/3 IP)...Kellen Moen 1.70 (2-7, 7.25, 19 BB/51 K in 58 1/3 IP)...it gets ugly thereafter, I'll spare you

Royals on the Farm 9/8 -- Playoff night 2

2011-09-08T20:11:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 7, Round Rock 2

3B Arias 3-4, K, 2 RS -- .429
C Pina 2-3, BB, HR, 4 RBI, K, RS -- .500
SS Falu 2-4, 2 RS, SB -- .286
DH Robinson 2-4, BB, K -- .375
CF Dyson 1-4, S, RBI, K, RS -- .143
RF Cain 1-5, RBI (2), 2 K -- .333
2B Mertins 0-2, BB, SF, RBI, 2 K -- .400

Mazzaro 6 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, BB, 6 K, HRA -- W, 1-0, 2.84 ERA
Lebron 2 IP, H, 2 BB, 2 K -- 0.00 ERA
Sisk 2/3 IP, K -- SV, 1, 0.00 ERA

* Omaha had another strong game to take both games in Round Rock and return to Werner Park in the catbird's seat in the series. Manny Pina took a bases-loaded walk in the 2nd and Kurt Mertins added a sac fly before Jarrod Dyson squeezed home a run to make it 3-0 Chasers. Vin Mazzaro gave up a 2-run homer in the bottom of the inning but that was his only misstep. Pina singled in a run in the 6th to make it 4-2. Willy Lebron came in with the bases loaded and 1 out in the 7th and got a big 5-4-3 double play that kept the lead intact. Pina proved himself the star of the night as he slammed a 2-run homer in the 8th for some insurance. Lorenzo Cain hit an RBI forceout in the 9th to make it 7-2. Brandon Sisk came in with the bases loaded and 1 out in the 9th and did his job as a forceout at home and a swinging K finished it. Omaha is up, 2-0, in the best of 5 coming back home for the remainder of the series. Mike Montgomery will make his biggest start of the season in game 3.

AA - NW Arkansas: Arkansas 1, Naturals 0 (2-hitter)

CF Orlando 1-3, 2B (2), K -- .250
C Theriot 1-3 -- .333
SS Colon 0-4 -- .000
RF Myers 0-2, HBP -- .167

Odorizzi 6 IP, H, 3 BB, 3 K, E -- 0.00 ERA, it's a shame the Nats wasted 2 good starts
E. Garcia 2 2/3 IP, ER, 2 H, HRA -- L, 0-1, 3.38 ERA

* The Naturals' offense was once again dynamic (sarcasm) as it was two games, two walkoffs for Arkansas. The Nats were no-hit into the 6th but Jake Odorizzi handed a 1-hit shutout to Edgar Garcia in the 7th. The first two Naturals reached in the 8th but NWA could make nothing of it. Garcia had 2 out in the 9th when LF Roberto Lopez launched a walkoff homer to left to give the Travelers a 2-0 series lead. That means the Naturals have to win out from here to stay alive. Mario Santiago will pitch game 3 back in the friendly confines of Arvest Ballpark.

A - Kane County: Burlington 5, Cougars 1

2B Franco 1-4, HR, RBI, K, RS -- .167
CF Eibner 1-4, K -- .143
3B Cuthbert 1-4, K -- .250
LF Fletcher 0-4, 2 K -- .143

Ventura 3 IP, 4 ER, 5 H, BB, 3 K, WP -- L, 0-1, 12.00 ERA
A. Cruz 3 IP, 3 H, 5 K -- 0.00 ERA
Carl 2 IP, ER, H, 2 BB, 2 K -- 4.50 ERA

* It was the Cougars' turn to get shut down on Thursday as the Bees set up a do-or-die game 3 Friday. Angel Franco got it started with a solo homer in the 3rd, but the main problem was the Cougars only had 1 hit after that. The Bees responded big time off Yordano Ventura as 4 straight singles were part of a 4-run rally in the bottom of the inning. The Cougars stranded 2 in the 7th. And, that other hit? Came with 2 outs in the 9th as the Cougs came up short. The best-of-3 series is tied, 1-1. Jason Adam will start the deciding game 3 Friday in Burlington.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Orem 6, Chukars 5 (Wed.)

1B Espy 2-4, 2B (17), 2 RBI (39), K -- .318
RF Davis 2-3, 2B (18), HR (8), RBI (39), K, 2 RS -- .324, ejected in 6th
3B Threlkeld 1-3, BB, HR (4), RBI (31), RS -- .271
SS Antonio 0-3, SF, RBI (5) -- .303
DH Gallagher 1-4 -- .200

Moen 2 IP, 6 ER, 7 H, 2 BB, HRA, WP -- L, 2-7, 7.25 ERA
Dooley 4 IP, 4 H, 5 BB, K -- 6.79 ERA
J. Sanchez 2 IP, H -- 8.17 ERA

* Orem pounded Kellen Moen early and held on to slip past Idaho Falls. Moen gave up a 2-run homer before he got an out, then gave up 2 RBI singles later in the 1st inning. Orem added 2 runs in the 2nd and it was 6-0 Owlz. Mike Antonio hit a sac fly in the 3rd and Richard Espy hit a 2-run double to cut it to 6-3. Runey Davis cranked his 8th pro homer in the 4th and Mark Threlkeld hit his 4th pro dinger in the 6th to trim it to 6-5. Davis struck out looking to end the inning and was sent to the showers by the ump. The Chukars got a 9th inning single but made nothing of it.

I'll do the final game recap for IF and the stat recap tomorrow.

Royals on the Farm 9/7 -- Playoff night 1, Mendoza, Billo shine

2011-09-07T20:27:00.004-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 4, Round Rock 0 (5-hitter)

RF Cain 2-4, 3B, RBI, K, RS
2B Mertins 2-3
DH Robinson 1-4, HR, 2 RBI, RS
LF Lough 1-4, RS, assist at second

Mendoza 7 IP, 5 H, 2 BB, 4 K, WP -- W, 1-0, 0.00 ERA
Herrera 2 IP, 4 K -- 0.00 ERA

* A 3-run 1st was key along with another good Luis Mendoza outing as Omaha grabbed the early advantage in the series. Jarrod Dyson was caught stealing in the 1st before Lorenzo Cain tripled in a run and Clint Robinson socked a 2-run homer to make it 3-0. Mendoza stranded 2 in the 3rd and 7th. A Dyson double play ball scored another run in the 8th. Kelvin Herrera sat down all 6 he faced. Omaha leads the best of 5 set, 1-0. Game 2 is Thursday. Vin Mazzaro is set to start. Clint Robinson was the PCL player of the month for August, and rightfully so.

AA - NW Arkansas: Arkansas 2, Naturals 1 (11)

DH Smith 1-5, RBI
LF Robinson 1-3, 2 BB, 2 K, RS, CS
SS Colon 0-3, HBP, S, K
RF Myers 1-4, BB

Dwyer 6 IP, UER, 2 H, 3 BB, 7 K, pickoff -- 0.00 ERA, can't ask for much more
Lafferty 1 1/3 IP, H, 2 BB, K -- 0.00 ERA
Volz 2 2/3 IP, H, BB, 5 K -- 0.00 ERA
Hardy 2/3 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, 2 K -- L, 0-1, 13.50 ERA

* Both teams scored in the 1st, but it would be 10 innings before the next, and final, run would be scored. Tim Smith hit an RBI groundout in the 1st to make it 1-0 NWA, but a 2-out Anthony Seratelli error helped the Travelers tie it in the bottom of the inning. NWA left a runner at third in the 4th and Kendal Volz stranded the bases full of Travs in the 8th. The Nats stranded 2 in the 10th and loaded the bases with 1 out in the 11th only to come up empty, as Paulo Orlando struck out and Wil Myers popped out. Blaine Hardy got 2 outs without incident in the 11th, but a single and walk were followed by a walkoff single by SS Darwin Perez. Arkansas took a 1-0 lead in the best of 5. Game 2 is Thursday. Jake Odorizzi will pitch to try to even the series.

A - Kane County: Cougars 4, Burlington 0 (3-hitter)

LF Fletcher 1-3, SF, RBI, RS
SS Calixte 1-3, 2B, RBI, K, SB
RF Beltre 1-3, SF, RBI, RS
CF Eibner 0-3, BB, 3 K
3B Cuthbert 1-4, 2B, 2 K

Billo 7 IP, 3 H, BB, 7 K -- W, 1-0, 0.00 ERA
Rogers 2 IP, BB, 2 K -- SV, 1, 0.00 ERA

* The Cougars had only 1 more hit than the Bees but rode a great Greg Billo start to the game 1 win. Billo stranded 2 in the 4th. Cheslor Cuthbert broke up a fledgling no-hit bid with a leadoff double in the 5th but he would be thrown out at the plate in the inning as the scoreless tie continued. Geulin Beltre broke the ice with a sac fly in the 6th and Orlando Calixte doubled in a run in the 7th. A passed ball and Brian Fletcher sac fly increased the lead to 4-0 in the 8th. Nick Rogers hurled two hitless innings to finish it. KC is up, 1-0, in the best of 3. They go for the quick sweep Thursday with Yordano Ventura pitching. Brian Fletcher's regular season .328 average was the second best in Cougars' history behind Jason Stokes' .341 in 2002.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 5, Ogden 4 (Tue.)

LF Elder 3-4, 3B (4), HR (9), RBI (27), RS -- .297, double shy of cycle
3B Mateo 2-4, BB, RBI (36), RS -- .341
2B Piterson 2-5, 2 2B (11), K, RS -- .307
SS Antonio 2-5, K, RS -- .333
1B Moreno 1-5, HR (11), 2 RBI (41), K, RS -- .274
DH Gallagher 0-3, BB, K -- .190
RF Davis 1-4, K, assist at second -- .319

B. Martin 6 IP, ER, 5 H, BB, 4 K, HRA, WP -- 4.02 ERA
Avinazar IP, 3 R (2 ER), 2 H, K, WP -- BS, 1, 8.89 ERA
Patton 2 IP, H, 4 K -- W, 3-1, 3.40 ERA

* Idaho Falls scored 3 late runs to take down the Raptors. Ogden hit a solo homer in the 3rd off Brennon Martin but an error scored the tying run for IF in the 4th. Daniel Mateo hit the go-ahead single in the 6th. Martin stranded the bases full in the 6th but Willian Avinazar allowed 3 runs in the 7th. Henry Moreno clubbed a 2-run homer in the 8th for his 11th homer of the season to tie the game, and Chris Elder led off the 9th with his 9th homer to regain the lead for the Chukars. Spencer Patton stranded 1 in the 9th for his 3rd win. IF is 16-20. The final series of the season starts tonight with the first of 2 at the Orem Owlz (22-14, Rookie Angels). Orem already has the second half division title sewn up.

Royals on the Farm 9/6

2011-09-06T19:56:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: off day

OPS rundown
Eric Hosmer 1.107 -- .439/.525/.582, look at that line in 26 games, we may never see him back in AAA
1B/DH Clint Robinson .932 -- .326/.399/.533, 86 RS, 35 2B, 23 HR, 100 RBI, 58 BB/88 K, 2/3 SB, 8 E in 134 G/503 ABs -- had down July but was back to best at 1.126 OPS in August, hit .400 in the month, too bad it's a logjam at 1B in the majors
OF Lorenzo Cain .877 -- .312/.380/.497, 84 RS, 28 2B, 7 3B, 16 HR, 81 RBI, 40 BB/102 K, 16/22 SB, 8 E in 128 G/487 ABs -- three smokin' months were followed by August cooldown, but he still was good this season, surprised KC didn't make room for him in the OF
IF Johnny Giavotella .871 -- .338/.390/.481, 67 RS, 34 2B, 2 3B, 9 HR, 72 RBI, 40 BB/57 K, 9/14 SB, 11 E in 110 G/453 ABs -- KC AAA player of the year had a great campaign, hope we don't see him back in AAA either
OF David Lough .850 -- .318/.367/.482, 87 RS, 26 2B, 11 3B, 9 HR, 65 RBI, 36 BB/49 K, 14/22 SB, 4 E in 114 G/456 ABs -- only down month was June
Others...Salvador Perez .847 (only got 12 games in before KC called)...3B Mike Moustakas .845 (15 2B, 10 HR, 19 BB/44 K in 55 G/223 ABs, wasn't spectacular but good enough to get an MLB look)...1B Kila Ka'aihue .812 (.379 OBP, 19 2B, 11 HR, 57 BB/81 K in 95 G, ship may have sailed for Kila)...IF Irving Falu .747 (.301/.358/.390, 50 RS, 10 2B, 9 3B, 35 BB/47 K, 21/32 SB, 12 E in 111 G/385 ABs, keeps hanging around, puts up solid numbers)...C Manny Pina .735 (passed by Salvador)...OF Jarrod Dyson .713 (overshadowed by Lorenzo)...IF Yamaico Navarro .708 (unremarkable 25 games for Chasers)

WHIP rundown
Everett Teaford 0.97 -- 3-2, 3.34, 5 HRA, 11 BB/33 K in 35 IP -- rode Omaha-KC express
Brandon Sisk 1.00 -- 4-2, 1.41, 2 SV, HRA, 16 BB/30 K in 32 IP -- did well in PCL
Willy Lebron 1.04 -- 1-1, 0.55, 1 SV, HRA, 5 BB/22 K in only 16 1/3 IP
Danny Duffy 1.12 -- 3-1, 3.43, 5 HRA, 10 BB/48 K in 42 IP, one of the few pitching prospects in organization to hold own in 2011
Kelvin Herrera 1.12 -- 1-0, 2.12, 6 SV, HRA, 7 BB/18 K in 17 IP -- rise continued to AAA for Absolute Zero
Others...Robinson Tejeda 1.22 (15 BB/43 K in 45 IP, didn't get much play at MLB in 2011)...Luis Mendoza 1.25 (12-5, 2.18, 1 CG, 1 ShO, 2 SV, 5 HRA, 54 BB/81 K in 144 1/3 IP, PCL Pitcher of the Year did a little of everything in 2011, had good April, rough May, then was lockdown thereafter)...Sean O'Sullivan 1.35 (8-2, 4.22, 6 HRA, 16 BB/55 K in 74 2/3 IP)...Jeff Suppan 1.43 (11-8, 4.78, 2 CG, 1 ShO, 23 HRA, 51 BB/94 K in 165 2/3 IP)...Mike Montgomery 1.50 (5-11, 5.32, 15 HRA, 69 BB/129 K in 28 G (27 starts) and 150 2/3 IP, something to build on, I feel a bounceback in 2012)...Vin Mazzaro 1.62 (60 BB/107 K in 123 2/3 IP)...Jeremy Jeffress 1.88 (didn't cut it in AAA)...Blaine Hardy 1.97 (ditto)

* Mendoza will pitch game 1 of the best-of-5 with the Round Rock Express on Wednesday.

AA - NW Arkansas: off day

OPS rundown
IF Mario Lisson .898 -- .293/.372/.527, 58 RS, 21 2B, 15 HR, 45 RBI, 31 BB/81 K, 15/17 SB, 17 E in 89 G/283 ABs -- hit .389 with 1.063 OPS in August to finish strong
C Ben Theriot .893 -- .303/.377/.516, 10 RS, 9 2B, 3B, 5 HR, 22 RBI, 14 BB/28 K, 3 E in 46 G/122 ABs -- hit .457 with 1.125 OPS in August
OF Paulo Orlando .889 -- .305/.362/.527, 30 RS, 5 2B, 10 3B, 4 HR, 24 RBI, 13 BB/35 K, 8/12 SB, 2 E in 45 G/167 ABs -- got the late season push down from Omaha and chipped in to playoff run
OF Tim Smith .873 -- .311/.365/.508, 38 RS, 13 2B, 2 3B, 10 HR, 49 RBI, 19 BB/37 K, 8/10 SB, 2 E in 69 G/238 ABs -- returned from injury in time to hit .412 in 6 August games
C Ryan Eigsti .804 -- .259/.338/.466, 6 2B, 2 HR, 6 BB/18 K in 23 G/58 ABs -- numbers came back to Earth as he hit for .536 OPS in 14 August games
Others...1B Jamie Romak .803 (led team with 23 HR, also rapped 21 2B, 55 BB/88 K, 6/7 SB in 123 G/439 ABs)...UT Anthony Seratelli .790 (.282/.392/.398, 12 2B, 6 3B, 9 HR, 64 RBI, 75 BB/92 K, 35/40 SB, 5 E in 129 G/440 ABs, Royals' AA player of the year reached peak in May/June but saw numbers tail off in July/August, best season since organizational debut in '07 in rookie ball)...C Salvador Perez .756 (.283/.329/.427, 14 2B, 9 HR, 43 RBI, 16 BB/30 K, 9 E in 79 G/286 ABs, meteoric rise late to KC)...OF Wil Myers .745 (.254/.353/.393, 50 RS, 23 2B, 3B, 8 HR, 49 RBI, 52 BB/87 K, 9/11 SB, 7 E in 99 G/354 ABs, bottomed out with .535 OPS in July but rebounded with .854 OPS in August, Royals probably expected more pop out of him, but he had an early knee injury that may have factored in)...OF Nick Van Stratten .678 (numbers better in AA than Carolina League)...IF Christian Colon .668 (.257/.325/.342, 69 RS, 14 2B, 2 3B, 8 HR, 61 RBI, 46 BB/51 K, 17/24 SB, 18 E in 127 G/491 ABs, durability was good, also BB/K is nice, peaked in June and July, then hit for .605 OPS in August)...IF Rey Navarro .662 (.271/.332/.330, 9 XBH, 14 BB/26 K, 12 E in 55 G/188 ABs, Wilmington success didn't carry over to AA)...IF Jeff Bianchi .654 (.259/.320/.333, 23 2B, 39 BB/85 K, 20/25 SB, 11 E in 119 G/444 ABs, return from TJS didn't go that well but had its moments)...OF Derrick Robinson .604 (.251/.323/.282, 56 RS, 9 XBH, 46 BB/87 K, 55/70 SB, 6 E in 107 G/419 ABs, bringing up the rear on the OPS chart, hit for .419 OPS in August, season # was 121 points worse than his AA OPS in 2010)

WHIP rundown
Kelvin Herrera 0.78 -- 4-0, 1.75, 7 SV, 4 HRA, 6 BB/40 K in 36 IP -- march to Omaha continued with tear through Texas League
Brandon Sisk 1.05 -- 3-1, 3.77, 2 HRA, 7 BB/28 K in 28 2/3 IP -- moved to Omaha in June
Edgar Garcia 1.10 -- 2-3, 3.47, 5 SV, 6 HRA, 11 BB/31 K in 36 1/3 IP -- shored up staff in second half
Blaine Hardy 1.11 -- 2-1, 1.59, 8 SV, 2 HRA, 16 BB/41 K in 39 2/3 IP -- struggled at Omaha but pitched well in AA
Mario Santiago 1.13 -- 5-1, 2.23, 3 HRA, 17 BB/49 K in 64 2/3 IP -- also had struggles at AAA but shored up NWA staff
Others...Jake Odorizzi 1.28 (5-3, 4.72, 13 HRA, 22 BB/54 K in 12 starts/68 2/3 IP, yowza on the HR numbers, got rough intro to AA but also had his good starts)...John Lamb 1.31 (1-2, 3.09, 3 HRA, 13 BB/22 K in 35 IP, when will we see him back from TJS???)...Will Smith 1.34 (13-9, 3.85, 2 CG, 1 ShO, 13 HRA, 45 BB/108 K in 161 1/3 IP, Royals' AA pitcher of the year, finished with 1.91 ERA in August and .204 OAV in month)...Buddy Baumann 1.42 (4.29, 2 SV, 9 HRA, 28 BB/68 K in 71 1/3 IP, had his moments)...Patrick Keating 1.42 (7 SV, 12 BB/44 K in 38 IP, hit DL)...Chris Dwyer 1.43 (8-10, 5.60, 2 CG, 14 HRA, 78 BB/126 K in 141 1/3 IP, ERA numbers were never great but he had a couple good short stretches)...Brendan Lafferty 1.44 (7 BB/20 K in 25 IP)...Kevin Chapman 1.46...Jeremy Jeffress 1.71 (disappointing season from one of the cogs in the Greinke trade)

* Chris Dwyer gets the start in game 1 versus Arkansas Wednesday. Not the most obvious choice, but he has stepped up his game a couple times this season. Lisson and Tim Smith split TL player of the week honors in leading the last-week surge to get NWA into the playoffs. Jake Odorizzi was TL pitcher of the week with a big start versus Arkansas.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: done at 66-72 overall

OPS rundown
OF Nick Francis .918 -- .319/.363/.555, 30 RS, 20 2B, 2 3B, 7 HR, 35 RBI, 13 BB/40 K, 7/8 SB, 4 E in 51 G/191 ABs -- bounced up to AA, back down, then back up
IF Rey Navarro .820 -- .285/.337/.484, 34 RS, 17 2B, 7 3B, 8 HR, 41 RBI, 18 BB/39 K, 5/9 SB, 10 E in 72 G/277 ABs -- earned player of the year honor before promotion to AA
OF Carlo Testa .804 -- .290/.361/.443, 48 RS, 27 2B, 4 3B, 7 HR, 43 RBI, 36 BB/109 K, 18/25 SB, 2 E in 100 G/366 ABs -- Pipeline favorite didn't follow up strong '09/'10 numbers, but did hit .378 with 1.055 OPS in August
1B John Whittleman .799 -- .234/.349/.451, 52 RS, 24 2B, 3 3B, 20 HR, 68 RBI, 76 BB/108 K, 2/2 SB, 27 E in 126 G/415 ABs -- probably was playing lower than he could, is getting playoff look in Omaha
OF Yem Prades .726 -- .289/.313/.413, 36 RS, 16 2B, 5 3B, 4 HR, 24 RBI, 10 BB/66 K, 11/18 SB, 2 E in 80 G/305 ABs -- Cuban held his own in U.S. debut, nothing spectacular but had his moments
Others...Whit Merrifield .706 (3 months of over .700 OPS, two months of OPS in the .500s, including August, led team in SB with 24 and 2B with 30, 52 BB/89 K, also held up for 126 GP)...OF Nick Van Stratten .676 (got midseason demotion from AA and didn't do much at Wilmington either, unfortunately)...Ryan Stovall .608 (got promotion from Kane County and posted ugly 5 BB/53 K in 58 games)...Tim Ferguson .597...Julio Rodriguez .576 (didn't do much in 22 games after coming over in Betemit trade)

WHIP rundown
Kelvin Herrera 0.68 -- 2-1, 0.61, 1 SV, HRA, 2 BB/12 K in 14 2/3 IP -- first stop in march to AAA
Allen Caldwell 0.79 -- 2-0, 1.50, 1 SV, 2 HRA, 4 BB/23 K in 9 G (2 starts) and 24 IP -- pitched even better in Wilmington than he did in Kane County
Kendal Volz 1.06 -- 3-3, 3.03, 3 SV, 6 HRA, 13 BB/63 K in 37 G and 62 1/3 IP -- this is combined with Salem stats, did well enough to earn call to Tex League late
Noel Arguelles 1.13 -- 4-5, 3.20, 6 HRA, 24 BB/64 K in 21 starts and 104 IP -- K rate not great but was solid in U.S. debut
Jake Odorizzi 1.15 -- 5-4, 2.87, 4 HRA, 22 BB/103 K in 15 starts and 78 1/3 IP -- doesn't reflect how dominant he was at times before call to AA
Others...Elisaul Pimentel 1.20 (1 CG, 1 SV, 10 HRA, 31 BB/105 K in 133 IP, did well before late season promo to AA)...Mike Mariot 1.20 (5 SV, 7 HRA, 21 BB/80 K in 100 1/3 IP, had lockdown times and shaky times in 2011)...Justin Marks 1.33 (8-8, 3.98, 2 CG, 14 HRA, 49 BB/140 K in 144 2/3 IP, fruit of DeJesus trade was serviceable, named Carolina League pitcher of the week in last week after 13 scoreless IP)...Tim Melville 1.51 (11-10, 4.32, 7 HRA, 53 BB/108 K in 135 1/3 IP, strong June and July followed by mediocre August, won team community service award)...Tyler Sample 1.57 (58 BB/86 K in 130 1/3 IP)

A - Kane County: off day

OPS rundown
OF Brian Fletcher .946 -- .328/.386/.560, 51 RS, 31 2B, 3 3B, 14 HR, 60 RBI, 24 BB/80 K, 4/8 SB, 7 E in 91 G/341 ABs -- only thing ungood is the BB/K, good first full season of pro ball, had great months other than May
IF Ryan Stovall .902 -- .307/.356/.546, 27 RS, 15 2B, 5 3B, 8 HR, 31 RBI, 15 BB/45 K, 5/8 SB, 9 E in 57 G/205 ABs -- good enough to move up to Wilmington and finish there
skipping Gerard Hall, who was at .759 and moved up to Wilmington before getting released
OF Brett Eibner .748 -- .213/.340/.408, 46 RS, 13 2B, 2 3B, 12 HR, 31 RBI, 48 BB/90 K, 2/5 SB, 1 E in 76 G/272 ABs -- .780 OPS in August, never really looked great but had early injury, had flashes of goodness tho
3B Cheslor Cuthbert .742 -- .267/.345/.397, 33 RS, 13 2B, 3B, 8 HR, 51 RBI, 36 BB/65 K, 2/2 SB, 13 E in 81 G/300 ABs -- hit the proverbial wall in August, .127 BA with .473 OPS, damper end to a good season
OF Jovan Pickett .668 -- .267/.364/.305, 16 RS, 2 3B, 5 RBI, 10 BB/22 K, 9/13 SB, 2 E in 35 G/105 ABs -- got on base, at least
Others....IF Angel Franco .664 (led team in triples with 6)...OF Geulin Beltre .657 (led team with 18 SB and 122 games played)...1B Jake Kuebler .624 (.291 OBP)...C Kevin David .617

WHIP rundown
Greg Billo 1.02 -- 9-5, 1.93, 1 SV, 6 HRA, 25 BB/119 K in 27 G (18 starts) and 135 IP -- great season, faded a bit in August
Chase Boruff 1.07 -- 4-1, 2.30, 7 SV, HRA, 20 BB/63 K in 41 G and 66 2/3 IP -- solid season out of the pen
Nick Rogers 1.09 -- 1-1, 2.45, 9 SV, 4 HRA, 12 BB/27 K in 20 G and 29 1/3 IP -- late season callup held his own in MWL
Leonel Santiago 1.10 -- 7-7, 3.06, 6 HRA, 19 BB/92 K in 18 starts and 108 2/3 IP -- did all right before hitting DL in July
Jason Mitchell 1.10 -- 3-1, 2.11, 1 SV, HRA, 5 BB/27 K in 10 G (3 starts) and 38 1/3 IP -- late callup had good first full pro season
Allen Caldwell 1.10 -- 4-0, 2.39, 1 SV, 2 HRA, 9 BB/39 K in 11 G and 26 1/3 IP -- pitched so well you wonder why they ever played him in OF
Others....Jason Adam 1.14 (6-9, 9 HRA, 25 BB/76 K in 21 starts and 104 1/3 IP, good pro debut)...Sugar Ray Marimon 1.14 (66 IP before he hit DL)...Chas Byrne 1.20 (9 SV, 12 BB/53 K in 55 IP)...Antonio Cruz 1.25 (41 BB/97 K in 105 1/3 IP, pretty decent part of haul for Wilson Betemit)...Yordano Ventura 1.26 (4.27 ERA, 8 HRA, 24 BB/88 K in 84 1/3 IP, good K rate and K/BB)...Leondy Perez 1.28 (3.41, 7 HRA, 29 BB/108 K in 153 IP, came on strong late)...Crawford Simmons 1.84 (only got 10 1/3 IP in)

* Billo starts game 1 of the best-of-3 with Burlington Wednesday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Ogden 8, Chukars 3 (Mon.)

SS Antonio 2-4, RS -- .320
3B DelGuidice 1-4, RBI (10), K -- .368
DH Gallagher 1-4, RBI (2) -- .222
1B Espy 0-2, BB, HBP, K, RS -- .314

Peacock 3 IP, 7 ER, 6 H, 4 BB, 4 K, 2 HRA -- L, 5-5, 4.48 ERA
N. Johnson 4 IP, ER, 4 H, BB, 3 K -- 4.22 ERA
Fassold IP, 2 H, K -- 4.03 ERA

* Ogden battered Brian Peacock and the Chukars on Monday. Peacock served up a 2-run homer in the 1st, then got nicked for 3 runs in the 2nd. Another 2-run homer in the 3rd made it 7-0 Ogden. The Chukars loaded the bases with 0 out in the 4th and a wild pitch, Cameron Gallagher groundout and Nick DelGuidice single cut it to 7-3. Nathan Johnson gave up a run in the 4th. IF stranded the bases full in the 5th and the only hit they got thereafter was a single in the 9th. IF dropped to 15-20. The series ends tonight.

Royals on the Farm 9/5 -- Regular season finales for 4

2011-09-05T19:26:00.003-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Iowa 7, Storm Chasers 2

3B Whittleman 2-4, K -- .500, Omaha debut
RF Mertins 2-3, RS -- .274
DH Robinson 1-4, RBI (100), K -- .326, nice that he hit the century mark
LF Lough 1-4, RBI (65), E (4) -- .318
CF Cain 0-3, HBP, E (8) -- .312
1B Ka'aihue 0-4, 2 K -- .272

Pucetas 4 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, K, HRA -- 4.98 ERA
Lebron IP, 4 UER, 2 H, 2 BB, 2 K, WP -- L, 1-1, 0.55 ERA
Miner IP, H -- 1.59 ERA
Tejeda IP, ER, 2 H, K -- 3.80 ERA
Sisk IP, K -- 1.41 ERA

* Iowa scored 5 unanswered runs to get the regular season finale Monday. Kevin Pucetas gave up a solo homer in the 1st and Iowa added a run in the 2nd to make it 2-0 Chasers. David Lough hit an RBI single and Clint Robinson singled in a run for his 100th RBI to tie the game in the 3rd. Iowa stranded 2 in the 3rd and Willy Lebron allowed 4 runs in the 5th, 3 on an error by Lorenzo Cain, to make it 6-2 Iowa. The Cubs added another run in the 7th. Only John Whittleman had a hit for Omaha after the 4th. The Chasers finished the season 79-63. I called 85-59. Close but no cigar. Stat recap tomorrow. The best-of-5 playoff set with the Round Rock Express (87-57, AAA Rangers) starts Wednesday in Round Rock. Luis Mendoza starts game 1.

AA - NW Arkansas: Tulsa 4, Naturals 2

LF Smith 2-4, RBI (49) -- .311
1B Romak 0-3, SF, RBI (71) -- .251
SS Colon 1-4, RS, E (18) -- .257
RF Myers 0-3, K -- .254

E. Pimentel 2 2/3 IP, H, BB, 3 K -- 6.35 ERA, pulled early for possible playoff appearance
Baumann 1 1/3 IP, ER, H, 2 K, HRA -- L, 4-3, 4.29 ERA
Jeffress 3 IP, ER, 2 H, 2 BB, K, HRA, WP -- 4.26 ERA
Hardy IP, 2 R (1 ER), 2 H, BB, 2 K -- 1.59 ERA

* The Naturals were being no-hit until late when they spoiled the whitewash. Tulsa got a solo homer off Buddy Baumann in the 4th then got another homer in the 7th off Jeremy Jeffress. Tim Smith broke up a no-hitter with a 2-out single in the 7th but Tulsa added 2 runs in the 8th to make it 4-0. Smith singled in a run and Jamie Romak hit a sac fly in the 9th to cut the lead in half, but they could get no closer. NWA finished the regular season 38-32 in the second half and 73-64 overall. Stat recap tomorrow. I called 84-56 overall, so I was off. The best-of-5 series starts Wednesday with the first of 2 at the Arkansas Travelers (AA Angels). Jake Odorizzi will start game 1.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 3, Frederick 0 (4-hitter)

2B Merrifield 2-4, RBI (36) -- .262
DH Lewis 1-4, HR (7), 2 RBI (25), K, RS -- .204
LF Testa 0-4, 2 K -- .290
3B Morales 0-2, 2 BB, K, RS -- .300

Marks 7 IP, 3 H, 3 BB, 8 K -- W, 8-8, 3.98 ERA
Keck 2 IP, H, 4 K, WP -- SV, 4, 5.56 ERA

* Justin Marks put together a gem with some backup from Jon Keck and the Rocks finished the season with a W. Joey Lewis cranked a 2-run homer in the 2nd for his 7th of the season and Whit Merrifield added an RBI single to give Marks a 3-0 lead. The Rocks kept the pressure on but could plate no more runners. The Keys got runners at the corners with 0 out in the 7th, but a strike-him-out, throw-him-out DP and swinging K got Marks out of the jam. Keck pitched the final 2 innings for his 4th save. Wilmington finished the season 30-39 in the second half and 66-72 overall. Stat recap tomorrow. For the record, I predicted 74-64 this season, so I was off a bit.

A - Kane County: Clinton 9, Cougars 3

LF Fletcher 2-3, BB, HR (14), 2 RBI (60), 2 RS -- .328
SS Calixte 0-3, SF, RBI (31), K -- .208
CF Eibner 0-3, BB, K, RS -- .213
3B Cuthbert 0-4 -- .267

Mitchell 4 IP, 5 ER, 10 H, K, HRA -- L, 3-1, 2.11 ERA
Rivers 2 IP, 3 ER, 3 H, BB, K -- 4.56 ERA
Boruff IP, K -- 2.29 ERA
Graham IP, ER, H, 3 BB -- 10.80 ERA
Giovenco IP, K -- 6.93 ERA

* The Cougars were behind the 8-ball early and couldn't recover in Monday's regular season finale. Jason Mitchell teed up a 2-run homer before he recorded an out in the 1st, and the LumberKings got another run in the 2nd to make it 3-0. Orlando Calixte hit a sac fly in the 2nd. Clinton tacked on 2 more runs off Mitchell in the 4th. Manager Vance Wilson was ejected between the 5th and 6th innings, and Alex Rivers gave up 3 runs in the 6th to make it 8-1. Brian Fletcher went deep for a 2-run shot in the 6th for his 14th of the season but the 'Kings would add another run in the 8th and hold it from there. KC finished the regular season 37-33 and 65-74 overall. Stat recap tomorrow. The playoffs start Wednesday at home with the first game of a best-of-3 with Burlington (31-37, 76-62 overall, A A's). Greg Billo will start. I did better with this prediction...I called 65-71 for the Cougars before the season.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: report tomorrow on Monday's game

Royals on the Farm 9/4

2011-09-04T16:53:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Iowa 2, Storm Chasers 1

SS Falu 2-4 -- .301
CF Dyson 1-5, 2B (10), RBI (26), 2 K -- .279
RF Cain 1-3, BB, picked off -- .314
LF Lough 1-3, BB, picked off -- .319
DH Robinson 1-4 -- .327
1B Ka'aihue 0-3, BB, K -- .276

Mazzaro 2 IP, ER, 3 H, 2 BB, K -- 4.29 ERA, appeared to have pitch count of 45
Montgomery 4 IP, ER, 4 H, BB, 6 K -- L, 5-11, 5.32 ERA
Herrera 2 IP, BB -- 2.12 ERA

* Omaha outhit the Cubs Sunday but didn't outscore them. Iowa nicked Vin Mazzaro for a run in the 1st but Omaha got an RBI double from Jarrod Dyson in the 3rd. Manny Pina was thrown out at home on the play. A pickoff of Lorenzo Cain at second factored in big in the 4th as Omaha stranded the bases full. The Chasers loaded the bases again in the 5th but again came up empty. Iowa took the lead off Mike Montgomery in the 6th and Omaha got the first 2 on in the 9th but couldn't plate the tying run. Omaha is 79-62. The regular season ends Monday. Kevin Pucetas will make the spot start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 6, Tulsa 4

LF Smith 2-4, BB, 2B (13), 2 RBI (48), K -- .308
SS Bianchi 1-5, RBI (48) -- .259
2B R. Navarro 1-2, BB, HBP, RBI (18), RS, E (12) -- .270
C Eigsti 0-3, SF, RBI (10), K, RS -- .259
CF Robinson 1-4, BB, K, 2 RS -- .251
DH Colon 1-5, K -- .257
RF Myers 0-3, HBP, RS, SB (9) -- .256

E. Garcia 5 IP, ER, 4 H, 3 K -- W, 2-3, 3.47 ERA
Chapman IP, ER, 2 H, HRA -- 4.99 ERA
Volz 3 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, BB, 4 K, WP -- SV, 1, 6.75 ERA

* NW Arkansas took command in the 3rd and didn't give it up. Jeff Bianchi hit an RBI single and Tim Smith doubled in 2 runs in the 3rd as NWA grabbed the lead. A Smith single scored another run in the 5th to make it 4-0 in support of Edgar Garcia. Garcia allowed a run in the 5th and Kevin Chapman and Kendal Volz allowed 2 runs in the 7th to cut it to 4-3. Rey Navarro hit an RBI single and Ryan Eigsti hit a sac fly in the 8th to give the Nats some insurance. The Drillers got a run in the 8th but Volz finished it for his 1st NWA save. NWA is 38-31. The regular season wraps up Monday. Elisaul Pimentel will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 4, Frederick 1

CF Testa 3-4, 2 2B (27), RBI (43), 2 CS (7) -- .293, has finished very strong
LF Ferguson 2-3, S, HR (6), RBI (43), RS -- .222
1B Lewis 2-4, 2B (13), RBI (23) -- .203
DH Batista 1-3, RBI (23) -- .219
3B Stovall 2-4, RS -- .245
SS Morales 1-4, 2B, K, RS -- .375

Melville 7 IP, ER, 5 H, 2 BB, 6 K -- W, 11-10, 4.32 ERA, finishes 2011 a winner
Caldwell 2 IP, H, BB, K -- SV, 1, 1.50 ERA

* Tim Melville held the Keys down Sunday as the Rocks got the win. Carlo Testa hit an RBI double in the 3rd and Joey Lewis and Deivy Batista hit RBI singles in the 4th. Melville finally allowed a run in the 5th but got out of a jam in the 6th. Tim Ferguson hit his 6th homer in the 8th and Allen Caldwell pitched the last 2 innings. Wilmington is 29-39. The season ends with a Monday matinee. Justin Marks will start.

A - Kane County: Clinton 6, Cougars 1 (Sat.)

C David 2-3, BB, RBI (11), PB (4) -- .247
CF Eibner 2-4, 2 K, RS -- .218
LF Fletcher 0-4, 2 K -- .326

Adam 4 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, BB, K -- L, 6-9, 4.23 ERA
Garrido 3 IP, ER, 2 H, 2 BB, 2 K, WP -- 6.34 ERA
Carl 2 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, BB, 5 K, WP -- 12.00 ERA, finding the going a little tougher in A-ball

* A weather delay caused a late start and then things didn't roll the Cougars' way Saturday. Jason Adam gave up single runs in the 1st and 2nd. Yowill Espinal was caught stealing home on a would-be double steal to end the 3rd, and the Cougars got their run on a Kevin David RBI single in the 4th. Santiago Garrido let a run in in the 6th and Edwin Carl allowed 3 late runs as Clinton pulled away. With the win, the LumberKings clinched the top divisional playoff spot over the Cougars. This means KC will play....the Burlington Bees (A A's) in the first round of the MWL Playoffs.

Cougars 3, Clinton 1

RF Beltre 3-5, RS, SB (18) -- .265
C Graterol 2-4, RBI (6) -- .203
DH Pickett 2-4, K, SB (9) -- .267
3B Cuthbert 1-4, BB, 2B (13), 2 RBI (51), RS -- .270
CF Eibner 0-3, 2 BB, 2 K -- .216
LF Fletcher 1-4, BB, 2 K, RS -- .325
KC stranded 14.

L. Perez 5 IP, 5 H, 4 K -- W, 8-13, 3.41 ERA
A. Cruz 3 IP, ER, H, BB, 6 K, HRA -- 2.73 ERA
Rogers IP, BB, 3 K -- SV, 9, 2.45 ERA

* Leondy Perez was back on his game to pick up his 8th win for the Cougars Sunday. Kane County loaded the bases with 0 out in the 1st, but came up empty. The Cougars broke through in the 3rd as Cheslor Cuthbert hit a 2-run double. Perez worked around two triples to hand a shutout to the bullpen in the 6th. Juan Graterol singled in a run in the 7th and Antonio Cruz lost the shutout with a solo homer in the 8th. That was all the 'Kings would get, tho. KC is 37-32. The regular season finale is Monday. Jason Mitchell will start.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 6, Ogden 2

3B Mateo 4-5, 2B (9), RBI (35), RS -- .340
2B Piterson 3-5, K, RS -- .305
1B Moreno 2-5, 2B (17), 2 RBI (38), K -- .276
CF Chism 2-5, HR (8), RBI (36), K, 2 RS -- .269
RF Elder 2-4, HR (8), RBI (26), RS -- .299
C Escobar 2-4, K, PB (13) -- .298
SS Antonio 0-5, 3 K -- .286
DH Gallagher 1-3, BB -- .214

A. Brooks 6 IP, ER, 3 H, 8 K, HRA -- W, 6-1, 3.36 ERA, nice
Dooley 3 IP, ER, 3 H, 3 BB, 4 K -- SV, 1, 7.26 ERA

* Aaron Brooks continued his strong pro debut and the Chukars offense picked him up in the 6th on Saturday. Brooks gave up a solo homer in the 2nd. The Chukar offense showed signs of life in the 5th but 3 hits failed to score a run as runners were thrown out at home and third in the inning. Chris Elder led off the 6th with his 8th homer, a wild pitch scored a run, Daniel Mateo hit an RBI single and Henry Moreno doubled in 2 runs as the Chukars took a 5-1 lead. Tyler Chism led off the 7th with his 8th homer. Brooks worked around a triple in the 6th and Jon Dooley stranded the bases full in the 7th. Dooley allowed a run in the 9th but got the game finished.

Ogden 4, Chukars 2

1B Espy 3-4, RS -- .317
CF Chism 2-4 -- .273
2B Mateo 2-4 -- .343
RF Davis 1-4, HR (7), RBI (38), 3 K, RS, assists at second and first -- .320
DH Moreno 1-4, 2B (18), RBI (39), K -- .276

Diaz 5 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, 3 BB, 5 K, HRA, WP -- L, 0-3, 10.06 ERA
Penny 2 IP, ER, H, 2 BB, 2 K, HRA -- 8.54 ERA
Patton IP, 2 H -- 3.58 ERA

* Ogden defeated the Chukars and Eric Diaz on Sunday. The Raptors scored single runs in the first 3 innings and the Chukars got a solo shot from Runey Davis in the 2nd for his 7th of the season. Henry Moreno doubled in a run in the 6th to cut it to 3-2, but Robert Penny gave up a solo homer in the inning. IF stranded 2 in the 8th and that was the Chukars' last best shot. IF is 15-19. Four games remain on the schedule.

Royals on the Farm 9/3 -- NWA clinches

2011-09-03T21:14:00.003-05:00

AAA - Omaha: rainout

* The game won't be made up. Game 3 is Sunday as Vin Mazzaro starts.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 9, Tulsa 2

C Theriot 3-5, 2B (9), HR (5), 3 RBI (22), 2 RS -- .311
3B Lisson 3-5, 2B (21), HR (15), RBI (45), K, 2 RS -- .293
1B Romak 2-4, RBI (70) -- .255
2B-1B Seratelli 2-5 -- .282
LF Robinson 2-4, BB, K, RS, 2 SB (55) -- .251
SS Colon 1-4, S, RBI (61), RS, E (17) -- .257
DH Smith 1-4, BB, HR (10), RBI (46), RS -- .304
RF Myers 1-4, BB, HR (8), RBI (49), 2 RS -- .259
NWA stranded 10.

M. Santiago 6 IP, ER, 5 H, 2 BB, 8 K, WP -- W, 5-1, 2.23 ERA
Lafferty 3 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, K -- SV, 2, 4.32 ERA

* The Naturals put up triple 3s late to rout the Drillers and clinch a playoff spot. Tulsa scored a run in the 3rd off Mario Santiago and the Drillers held a 1-0 lead into the 7th. Mario Lisson tied it with one swing of the bat to lead off the 7th with his 15th homer. A run-scoring error and Jamie Romak RBI single made it 3-1 Naturals. Brendan Lafferty gave up a run in the 7th, and Wil Myers and Ben Theriot homered in the 8th for their 8th and 5th homers of the season. Derrick Robinson swiped two bases in the inning and scored on a throwing error on the second SB to make it 6-2 Nats. Tim Smith led off the 9th with his 10th homer and Theriot doubled in 2 runs to put the game on ice. Lafferty finished it for his 2nd save. NWA is 37-31. Game 2 is Sunday. Will Smith will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 3, Frederick 2

SS Batista 3-4, 3B (2), RBI (22), RS, E (16) -- .217
C Jones 2-4, 2B (2), K, RS -- .231
3B Morales 2-4, picked off -- .500, Wilmington debut
2B Merrifield 1-2, BB, S, HR (5), RBI (35), RS -- .260
RF Van Stratten 0-4, RBI (27), K -- .275
LF Testa 1-2, 2 BB, SB (18), assist at third -- .288

Sample 6 IP, UER, 2 H, 2 BB, 7 K -- 5.25 ERA
C. White 2 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, K -- BS, 1, W, 1-0, 1.69 ERA
Paukovits IP, BB, K -- SV, 7, 3.46 ERA

* The Rocks limited the Keys to 4 hits in the win Saturday. Whit Merrifield led off the Rocks 1st with his 5th homer. Tyler Sample worked around 2 walks in the 4th but gave up a run in the 5th to tie it. Deivy Batista hit an RBI triple in the 5th but Cole White gave up the lead in the 7th. Nick Van Stratten hit an RBI fielder's choice in the 7th and White and Bryan Paukovits made it stick. Wilmington is 28-39. Tim Melville starts Sunday's matinee game 2.

A - Kane County: Rain delays pushed this one back and it's 3-1 Clinton late. I'll recap it tomorrow.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Orem 7, Chukars 5 (Fri.)

CF Chism 3-4, BB, RBI (35), RS -- .266
2B Piterson 2-4, BB, RS -- .295
SS Antonio 1-5, 3B, RBI (4), RS -- .375
1B Espy 1-5, 2B (16), RBI (37), K -- .309
DH Moreno 1-4, HR (10), RBI (36), K, RS -- .274
RF Davis 0-4, 3 K -- .322

Moen 5 IP, 6 R (5 ER), 6 H, BB, 3 K, 2 WP -- L, 2-6, 6.55 ERA
J. Sanchez 3 IP, ER, 2 H, 3 BB, 2 K -- 8.65 ERA
Avinazar IP, H, 3 K, WP -- 8.54 ERA

* Idaho Falls made a last ditch comeback effort but didn't get enough Friday. Mike Antonio hit an RBI triple and scored on a Richard Espy double to make it 2-0 Chukars in the 1st. Orem scored a run in the 3rd, then added 4 in the 4th off Kellen Moen. The Owlz added another run in the 5th and got a steal of home in the 6th to make it 7-2. Henry Moreno slammed his 10th homer of the season in the 8th and Tyler Chism singled in a run and scored on a wild pitch to cut it to 7-5. The rally stopped there tho. IF is 14-18. A 4-game set at the Ogden Raptors (15-17, Rookie Dodgers) starts tonight.

Royals on the Farm 9/2

2011-09-02T20:46:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 15, Iowa 5

2B Y. Navarro 3-4, 2 BB, HR (2), 2 RBI (9), 3 RS, 2 SB (3) -- .272
RF Falu 3-6, HR (2), RBI (47), 2 RS, CS (11) -- .299
LF Lough 3-6, 3B (11), RBI (64), 3 RS -- .318
1B Arias 3-4, 2 BB, RBI (25), 3 RS, SB (7) -- .234
DH Pina 2-5, BB, 2B (13), 4 RBI (25), K, RS -- .238
C Clark 1-3, 2 BB, 2B (12), 2 RBI (13), RS -- .232
3B Mertins 1-5, RBI (4), K -- .250
CF Dyson 0-5, BB, RBI (25), RS -- .280

O'Sullivan 3 1/3 IP, 5 ER, 10 H, BB, 3 K, WP -- 4.22 ERA
Lebron 2 2/3 IP, 2 H, 3 K -- W, 1-0, 0.59 ERA
Tejeda IP, H, BB -- 3.68 ERA
Castaneda 2 IP, 2 K -- 0.00 ERA

* The Chasers made a close game a laugher in the 7th. Irving Falu cranked his 2nd homer of the season in the 1st, and Omaha added 3 in the 3rd on a David Lough triple (on which he scored on an error), and a 2-run Manny Pina double. Iowa got 3 in the 3rd to cut it to 4-3. The Cubs added 2 in the 4th to take a 5-4 lead, but Yamaico Navarro hit a 2-run homer in the 5th for his 2nd of the season. Omaha loaded the bases with 1 out in the 7th and a 2-run error was followed by a 2-run Cody Clark double, a Kurt Mertins RBI single, a Jarrod Dyson RBI forceout, and RBI singles from Lough, Joaquin Arias and Pina. Omaha is 79-61. Game 2 is Saturday. Vin Mazzaro will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 5, Arkansas 2

1B Seratelli 2-3, BB, RBI (64), 2 RS, SB (35) -- .281
RF Myers 1-2, BB, S, 2B (23), 2 RBI (48), RS -- .259
LF Robinson 1-4, RBI (25), K, CS (15) -- .248
C Theriot 0-1, HBP, SF, RBI (19), K -- .298
SS Colon 1-4, 2B (14), RS -- .257
DH Smith 1-3, BB, RS -- .305
CF Paulo Orlando had an assist at third.

Odorizzi 7 IP, H, 2 BB, 6 K -- W, 5-3, 4.72 ERA, clutch start
Baumann IP, ER, H, K, HRA -- 4.24 ERA
Hardy IP, UER, H, BB, 3 K -- 1.40 ERA

* Jake Odorizzi flirted with a no-hitter on Friday as the Naturals got another good win to head into the final showdown of the season. Odorizzi took his no-no into the 7th. Meanwhile the Naturals got 2 runs in the 5th on a Ben Theriot sac fly and Derrick Robinson RBI single. Odorizzi allowed a single in the 7th and Buddy Baumann lost the shutout with a solo homer in the 8th. NWA responded with 3 in the 8th on an Anthony Seratelli RBI single and Wil Myers 2-run double. Blaine Hardy allowed a run before shutting the door in the 9th. NW Arkansas is 36-31 and 2 games up on Tulsa going into the final 3-game set of the season, at the Drillers (34-33, AA Rockies).

A-Adv. - Wilmington: off day

* The Rocks' season ends with a 3-game home set with the Frederick Keys (39-28, A-Adv. O's) that starts Saturday. Tyler Sample will start. IF Adrian Morales got called up for the last series.

A - Kane County: Cougars 9, Cedar Rapids 1

RF Beltre 4-5, HBP, 2B (17), 3 RBI (42), RS, assist at third -- .261
SS Espinal 3-4, BB, 4 RBI (24) -- .204
C Graterol 2-4, BB, RBI (5), K, RS -- .193
LF Fletcher 1-5, HBP, RBI (58), K, RS, assist at second -- .330
CF Eibner 1-6 -- .214
3B Cuthbert 1-5, BB, K, RS -- .271
KC stranded 15.

Ventura 5 IP, ER, 4 H, BB, 5 K, HRA -- W, 4-6, 4.27 ERA
Rivers 2 IP, H, K -- 3.74 ERA
Boruff 2 IP, 2 H, BB, 2 K -- 2.33 ERA

* The Cougars posted an upside-down 6 in the 6th to rout the Kernels. Yordano Ventura gave up a leadoff homer in the 1st but the Cougars would whitewash the Kernels the rest of the way. The Cougars made a habit of stranding runners early, but finally broke through in the 6th. Yowill Espinal got it started with a 2-run single, Geulin Beltre hit a bases-clearing 3-run double, Brian Fletcher hit an RBI single, Juan Graterol singled in a run, and Espinal hit ANOTHER 2-run single to make it 9-1. The bullpen nailed it down from there. KC is 36-31. The final series of the season takes place in Kane County as the Cougars play the Clinton LumberKings (37-29, A Mariners). Jason Adam will start game 1. The Cougars are 1 1/2 games back of Clinton for the top playoff spot in the division.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 7, Orem 4 (Thu.)

SS Antonio 2-3, BB, HR, 3 RBI, RS, SB -- .455
2B Piterson 2-4, 3B (2), 2 RBI (14), RS -- .290
LF Fradejas 2-4, 2 RS -- .303
RF Elder 0-3, S, RBI (25), 2 K, RS -- .293
3B DelGuidice 1-4, K, RS -- .377
1B Espy 1-3, 2 K, picked off -- .312
CF Davis 1-4, 2B (17), RS -- .329
DH Gallagher 0-4, K -- .182

B. Martin 5 IP, 3 R (1 ER), 7 H, 2 BB, 3 K, E (2) -- W, 4-6, 4.20 ERA
N. Johnson 3 IP, ER, H, BB, K -- 4.50 ERA
Fassold IP, BB, K -- SV, 4, 4.22 ERA

* The 4th was the key inning in the Chukar win Thursday. Brennon Martin gave up a 2-run single in the 3rd but Mike Antonio had the answer with his 1st Pioneer League homer, a 2-run shot, that tied it in the bottom of the frame. Orem scored a run in the 4th but the Chukars answered with 4 runs on a Chris Elder squeeze play, Luis Piterson RBI single, run-scoring passed ball and Antonio RBI single. Orem scored a run in the 6th but IF maintained as Piterson tripled home a run to keep the 3-run lead intact. Nathan Johnson and Cody Fassold brought it home from there. IF is 14-17. The series ends tonight.

Royals on the Farm 9/1

2011-09-01T21:20:00.003-05:00

Gonna save any month-end updates for the teams until after the ends of the regular seasons.

AAA - Omaha: Round Rock 9, Storm Chasers 4

LF Lough 2-4, K, RS -- .316
1B Arias 1-4, 2 RBI (24), 2 K, RS -- .225
C Pina 0-2, BB, SF, RBI (21) -- .234
RF Cain 0-4, RBI (81), 2 K -- .314

Suppan 3 IP, 6 ER, 6 H, 3 BB, K, 2 HRA -- L, 11-8, 4.78 ERA
Pucetas 4 IP, 4 H, 2 K -- 5.00 ERA
Herrera 2 IP, 3 ER, 3 H, 3 BB, K, HRA -- 2.40 ERA

* In what would be a motif for the Royals minors on the night, the Chasers blew an early lead. They looked good early as Lorenzo Cain hit an RBI groundout, Joaquin Arias hit a 2-run single and Manny Pina added a sac fly. Round Rock answered quickly with 2 homers for 3 runs off Jeff Suppan in the 2nd, then 3 more runs in the 3rd. Kevin Pucetas held the line there, but Kelvin Herrera gave up a 2-run triple in the 8th and a solo homer in the 9th. The Chasers offense sputtered after the 1st. Omaha is 78-61. The first season of Werner Park ends with Friday's home finale. Sean O'Sullivan will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 5, Arkansas 3

DH T. Smith 2-5, RBI (45), RS -- .305
RF Orlando 2-4, BB, RS, two assists at second -- .316
3B Lisson 2-4, BB, 2B (20), 2 RS -- .285
CF Robinson 1-3, S, SF, RBI (24), RS, SB (53), assist at second -- .248
2B R. Navarro 1-2, 2 BB, 2B (8), RBI (17) -- .268
C Eigsti 0-2, 2 BB, RBI (9), K -- .273
SS Colon 1-3, 2 BB, SB (17) -- .257
NWA stranded 14.

Dwyer 6 1/3 IP, ER, 3 H, 3 BB, 4 K -- W, 8-10, 5.60 ERA
Chapman 2 1/3 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 3 H, 2 BB, 3 K -- 4.89 ERA
Volz 0 IP, 2 BB -- 7.36 ERA
Hardy 1/3 IP, nothing -- SV, 8, 1.43 ERA

* NWA stymied a late Travelers rally to get a key win Thursday. Tim Smith singled in a run and scored on an error in the 1st as NWA staked Chris Dwyer to a 2-0 lead. The Nats left the bases loaded in the 3rd but got a Rey Navarro RBI double in the 6th. Dwyer allowed a run before getting pulled in the 7th but the Nats scored 2 that inning on a Ryan Eigsti bases-loaded walk and Derrick Robinson sac fly. Kevin Chapman had 1 on and 2 out in the 9th when an RBI double was followed by two walks by Kendal Volz to load the bases. A Jamie Romak error at first scored another run, but Blaine Hardy got a groundout to end it. NWA is 35-31 and a game up on first. The series ends Friday. Jake Odorizzi will start. Will Smith was named Texas League Player of the Month for August. He went 4-1 with a 1.91 ERA over the month with 9 BB/37 K in 42 1/3 IP.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Myrtle Beach 6, Blue Rocks 4

2B Merrifield 3-4, 2B (29), 2 RS, SB (24) -- .259
3B Stovall 1-4, 2B (16), 2 RBI (19), 2 K, E (10) -- .245
RF Testa 1-4, RBI (42), 2 K, RS -- .287

Mariot 7 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, BB, 4 K, HRA -- 3.41 ERA
Odenbach 2 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 3 BB, K -- L, 2-3, 3.50 ERA

* The Rocks blew a 4-0 lead Thursday. Carlo Testa got it started with an RBI single in the 3rd and Ryan Stovall hit a 2-run double to make it 3-0 Rocks. Whit Merrifield doubled and stole home on a double steal with Nick Van Stratten in the 5th. Mike Mariot dodged trouble in the 4th but found it in the 6th as the Pelicans scored 4 runs, with the big blow being a 3-run homer. Dusty Odenbach escaped a jam in the 8th but walked 3 and gave up 2 singles for 2 runs in the 9th. The last 10 Rocks in a row went down. Wilmington is 27-39. The Rocks have Friday off.

A - Kane County: Cedar Rapids 9, Cougars 6

CF Pickett 2-3, 2 BB, RBI (5), K, RS, 2 SB (8) -- .269
SS Calixte 2-4, SF, RBI (30), RS -- .212
1B Graterol 2-3, BB, K, RS -- .183
RF Beltre 1-4, SF, RBI (39), RS, SB (17) -- .255
C David 1-3, BB, HBP, RBI (10), K, PB (3) -- .238
2B Espinal 1-2, S, SF, RBI (20), RS -- .197
3B Cuthbert 1-4, BB, 2 K, RS -- .272
LF Fletcher 1-4, HBP, 2B (31), 2 K -- .332
KC stranded 11.

Billo 5 IP, ER, 2 H, K -- 1.93 ERA
Graham 0 IP, 5 ER, 5 H, WP -- 11.05 ERA
Giovenco 3 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, BB, 5 K, WP -- BS, 1, L, 0-2, 7.23 ERA

* The Cougars let a 6-1 lead slip away as Cedar Rapids broke out the bats late. Kevin David took a bases-loaded walk in the 1st and Orlando Calixte hit a sac fly to make it 2-0 Cougars. Jovan Pickett added an RBI single, an error scored a run and Geulin Beltre added a sac fly in the 2nd. Greg Billo allowed a run on 2 hits in the 2nd but Yowill Espinal hit a sac fly in the 3rd to make it 6-1. Billo retired the last 10 he faced, but when the ball was handed to Tyler Graham in the 6th, things went south. Four straight singles, a wild pitch and a double ended Graham's night without an out recorded, and Mike Giovenco gave up 2 more hits as the Kernels scored 6 runs in the inning. Cedar Rapids added 2 more runs in the 8th. The Cougars loaded the bases with 1 out in the 9th but didn't make anything happen. KC is 35-31. Yordano Ventura pitches the series finale Friday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 5, Orem 2 (Wed.)

1B Moreno 2-4, 3B (2), HR (9), 2 RBI (35), 2 K, 2 RS -- .274
DH Gallagher 2-3, BB, HR, RBI, RS -- .286, nice
3B Mateo 2-4, RS -- .329
C Escobar 1-3, S, 2 RBI (20) -- .301
SS Antonio 1-4, 2B (2), K, RS, E -- .375
RF Davis 1-2, BB, HBP, K -- .331
LF Elder 1-4, K, picked off -- .300

Peacock 6 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, 7 K -- W, 5-4, 3.79 ERA
Penny 2 IP, ER, 3 H, K -- 8.72 ERA
Patton IP, H, K -- SV, 2, 3.68 ERA

* The Chukars rode a good start from Brian Peacock to the win Wednesday. Peacock allowed an Owlz run in the 2nd but retired the last 13 he faced from then on. Cameron Gallagher tied it with his first IF homer in the 5th, then Henry Moreno went deep in the 6th for his 9th of the season and Edul Escobar singled in a run to make it 4-1 Chukars. Robert Penny allowed a run in the 7th but Moreno tripled and was squeezed home by Escobar in the 8th. Spencer Patton finished it with a scoreless 9th. IF is 13-17. Game 3 is tonight.

Royals on the Farm 8/31 -- Cougars, Chasers are first to clinch playoff spot

2011-08-31T21:27:00.004-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 12, New Orleans 2

RF Cain 5-5, 3 RBI (80), SB (16), E (7) -- .317, gave 'em a dose on Wednesday
DH Mertins 3-5, 3B, RBI (3), K, 2 RS, SB -- .271
2B Y. Navarro 3-5, K, 2 RS, 2 E (10) -- .250
CF Dyson 2-5, BB, HR (3), 3 RBI (24), K, 3 RS -- .289
SS Falu 2-5, BB, 3B (9), 3 RBI (46), 2 RS -- .295
LF Lough 1-5, BB, RBI (63), RS, SB (14) -- .314
Omaha stranded 12.

Mendoza 6 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 3 BB, 6 K -- W, 12-5, 2.18 ERA
Miner 2 IP, H, BB, K -- 1.66 ERA
Castaneda IP, H, K, WP -- 0.00 ERA, back from the Mexican League

* Round Rock scored first but Omaha did all the scoring thereafter as the Chasers trimmed the magic number to a measly 1, and later clinched the division title with a Memphis loss. The Express started the game with 3 straight doubles to get two quick runs off Luis Mendoza, but the Omaha ace would only allow 1 more hit over the next 5 innings. Lorenzo Cain started a good personal night with an RBI single in the 1st, and Omaha added 5 in the 2nd on a 2-run Jarrod Dyson single, an Irving Falu RBI single, a David Lough RBI groundout and another Cain RBI single. Falu ripped a 2-run triple in the 3rd and scored on yet another Cain single to make it 9-2. Dyson led off the 5th with his 3rd homer and Kurt Mertins tripled in a run and scored on an error in the 6th. Zach Miner and Federico Castaneda took it home from there. Omaha is 78-60. Mendoza was named PCL Pitcher of the Year Wednesday. I can't believe his season line, but it's a well-deserved honor. He leads the league in ERA, WHIP and opponent BA. How can he be this good at AAA and so bad when he gets to the majors? The series ends Thursday. Jeff Suppan will start. For some reason, KC called up RP Jesse Chavez. He wasn't bad for Omaha, but he wasn't great either. The Chasers will head to the playoffs for the first time this century. It's been since 1999.

AA - NW Arkansas: Arkansas 11, Naturals 5

DH T. Smith 3-4, HR (9), 2 RBI (44), K, RS -- .303
3B Lisson 3-4, 2 2B (19), HR (14), RBI (44), 2 RS, E (16) -- .281
CF Orlando 1-5, HR (4), RBI (24), 2 K, RS -- .311
C Eigsti 1-4, 2B (6), RBI (8), 3 K -- .283
SS Colon 1-5 -- .257
RF Myers 0-4, K, E (7) -- .257

E. Pimentel 3 IP, 5 R (4 ER), 5 H, 3 BB, 3 K, 2 HRA -- L, 0-1, 12.00 ERA, rough Nats debut
Lafferty 3 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, BB, K, WP, balk -- 4.50 ERA
Paulino IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 2 BB -- 5.46 ERA
Dobies 2 IP, ER, H, 2 K, HRA -- 5.89 ERA

* The Travelers broke out the bats to beat the Naturals Wednesday. Back-to-back homers scored 4 runs and proved a rude welcome to Elisaul Pimentel in the 1st. Arkansas added another run in the 2nd but Tim Smith smacked his 9th homer in the 2nd to get NWA on the board. Arkansas stranded 2 in the 3rd but scored 1 in the 4th and 2 in the 5th. Ryan Eigsti hit an RBI double in the 5th but the Travs would add 3 more runs. Paulo Orlando led off the 8th with his 4th homer and Smith singled in a run. Mario Lisson led off the 9th with his 14th homer but that's as close as NW Arkansas would come. NWA is 34-31 and now tied with Tulsa for first. Game 3 is Thursday. Chris Dwyer will start. Rehabbing C Matt Treanor was flipped to the Rangers...I have to say, he seemed serviceable at the MLB level. Not the future like Salvador Perez, tho.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Myrtle Beach 2, Blue Rocks 1

3B Stovall 2-4, RBI (17), SB (6) -- .245
DH Testa 2-4, 2B (25), RS -- .287, like to see him get moved up to help NWA push
C Jul. Rodriguez 1-4, K -- .227

Marks 6 IP, 5 H, 2 BB, 2 K, 2 WP -- 4.18 ERA
Dennick 2 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 3 H, 2 K, E (2) -- BS, 3, L, 3-7, 4.36 ERA
Stueve IP, nothing -- 0.00 ERA

* Wilmington couldn't hold a narrow lead late. Neither Justin Marks nor Pelicans SP Chad Bell cruised, necessarily, but the game was scoreless going into the 6th. Carlo Testa led off the Rocks' half of that inning with a double and scored on a Ryan Stovall single to break the ice. The Pelicans got 2 RBI doubles off Ryan Dennick in the 8th, though, to take the lead. Wilmington got a single in the 9th but would get no more. The Rocks are 27-38. The series finishes Thursday. Mike Mariot will start. IF John Whittleman got moved up to AAA before the game.

A - Kane County: Cougars 4, Cedar Rapids 3

3B Franco 2-5, 2B (14), RBI (27) -- .255
DH Eibner 2-5, 3B (2), 2 K, 2 RS -- .215
RF Beltre 2-4, 3B (4), RBI (38), RS -- .255
CF Llanos 2-4, K, SB (13) -- .251
2B Espinal 2-4, K, RS -- .194
SS Calixte 1-4, RBI (29), E (21) -- .208

J. Mitchell 5 2/3 IP, 3 H, BB, 4 K -- W, 3-0, 1.05 ERA
A. Cruz 2 1/3 IP, UER, 2 H, 2 BB, 3 K, WP -- 2.73 ERA
Rogers IP, 2 ER, 3 H, K -- SV, 8, 2.54 ERA

* Jason Mitchell had a good start and the Cougars held on to get a big win as they clinched a playoff slot. Brett Eibner led off the 2nd with a triple and scored on a Geulin Beltre groundout to get it started. KC missed out on a bases-loaded, 0-out situation in the 3rd, but got an Orlando Calixte RBI single in the 4th. Mitchell was perfect through 3 and never faced a strong threat. The Cougars left the bases loaded again in the 5th but Beltre tripled and scored on an error in the 6th. Antonio Cruz came in to strand 2 in the 6th, then struck out 2 with the bases loaded in the 7th. Cruz allowed a run in the 8th but the Cougars got it back in the 9th on an Angel Franco RBI double. Nick Rogers used every bit of the 3-run lead in the 9th as he allowed 2 runs before shutting the door for his 8th save. KC is 35-30 and 63-71 overall. The win clinched an MWL wild-card slot, but the Cougs are only 2 1/2 games back of Clinton for the top divisional spot and the teams start a set Saturday. Game 2 with Cedar Rapids is Thursday. Greg Billo will start.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Orem 6, Chukars 3 (Tue.)

C Escobar 2-4, 2B (12), RBI (18), RS -- .300
RF Davis 2-4, 2 2B (16), RBI (37), K -- .329
SS Antonio 2-4, 2B, K, RS -- .500, IF debut
2B Piterson 2-5, K -- .283
LF Elder 1-4, HR (7), RBI (24), RS -- .302
DH Gallagher 0-4, 2 K -- .000, IF debut, guess they wanted him to get some more ABs before season wraps
1B Espy 1-4, BB, K -- .312

E. Diaz 5 IP, 5 R (4 ER), 5 H, 3 BB, 5 K, HRA, 2 WP -- L, 0-2, 12.00 ERA
Dooley 3 IP, ER, 2 H, 3 BB, 3 K -- 7.50 ERA
Fassold IP, 2 K -- 4.43 ERA

* Orem put up 3 in the 1st Tuesday and didn't look back. The Owlz nicked Eric Diaz for a 2-run homer and another run to grab the early momentum. The Chukars loaded the bases with 0 out in the 1st but the next 3 struck out to squander the chance. Idaho Falls scored 2 in the 4th on RBI doubles by Edul Escobar and Runey Davis to gouge the lead. Orem had an answer with 2 in the 5th, though, and after IF left the bases loaded again in the 5th, Chris Elder clubbed his 7th homer in the 6th to cut it to 5-3. Orem got the run back in the 8th and the Chukar offense did no more. IF is 12-17. Pitchers Aaron Brooks and Edwin Carl were named to the 2011 Pioneer League all-star team.

Rookie - Burlington: The B-Royals finished 24-44.

OPS rundown
OF Jorge Bonifacio .825 -- .284/.333/.492, 26 RS, 20 2B, 4 3B, 7 HR, 30 RBI, 16 BB/58 K, 5/11 SB, 1 E in 62 G/236 ABs -- 18-yr-old defending DSL Royals player of the year did all right in U.S. debut
OF Lane Adams .814 -- .281/.353/.461, 31 RS, 9 2B, 3 3B, 5 HR, 20 RBI, 17 BB/45 K, 9/10 SB, 2 E in 43 G/167 ABs -- didn't do so hot in A-ball with KC, but held his own in Appy League
1B Murray Watts .803 -- .222/.342/.461, 32 RS, 10 2B, 15 HR, 44 RBI, 41 BB/72 K, 1/2 SB, 7 E in 65 G/230 ABs -- same here, didn't hit much better in Appy League but slugged a bunch better
IF Mike Antonio .783 -- .262/.322/.461, 30 RS, 11 2B, 10 HR, 37 RBI, 17 BB/25 K, 10/15 SB, 25 E in 55 G/206 ABs -- moved up to Idaho Falls
IF Justin Trapp .777 -- .259/.345/.432, 45 RS, 13 2B, 4 3B, 7 HR, 41 RBI, 29 BB/64 K, 31/38 SB, 22 E in 63 G/243 ABs -- only .607 OPS in August, had his best season as a pro, tho
Others....Steven Brooks .700 (best mark among '11 newbies at Burlington)...Adrian Bringas .651 (improved every month, had .693 OPS in August)...Jin-Ho Shin .641 (better than his .480 in the AZL last season)...Kenny Swab .631 (hit .320 with .793 OPS in August)

WHIP rundown
Matt Murray 1.00 -- 2-4, 3.40, 1 CG, 5 HRA, 10 BB/58 K in 12 starts and 53 IP -- good pro debut
Nick Graffeo 1.00 -- 4-2, 2.04, 4 SV, 4 HRA, 16 BB/53 K in 17 G (6 starts) and 53 IP -- good enough to start season in Kane County in 2012, I'd bet
Alex Rivers 1.02 -- 1-1, 1.02, 1 SV, 4 BB/19 K in 9 G and 17 2/3 IP -- moved up to A ball
Matt Ridings 1.14 -- 3-4, 3.92, 5 HRA, 11 BB/60 K in 14 starts and 66 2/3 IP -- also good pro debut, will he and Murray be in Cougars rotation in 2012?
Tyler Graham 1.28 -- 2-1, 3.09, 2 SV, 3 HRA, 17 BB/38 K in 14 G and 32 IP -- also moved up
Others...Cory Hall 1.29 (2 SV, 12 BB/31 K in 35 2/3 IP)...Abel Gonzalez 1.31 (1 SV, 2 HRA, 5 BB/25 K in 29 IP, decent pro debut)...Eric Cantrell 1.43 (finished strong despite 0-5 record, 22 BB/47 K in 51 2/3 IP)...Andrea Pizziconi 1.59 (21 BB/22 K in 39 2/3 IP)...Andrew Ferguson 1.65 (15 BB/33 K in 36 1/3 IP)...Malcom Culver 1.86 (8.03 ERA, 8 HRA, 23 BB/38 K, transition to pitcher a bumpy one)...Angel Baez 2.06 (yikes)...David Middendorf 2.65 (11.42 ERA in pro debut)...Robinson Yambati 3.11 (0-5, 18.85, 11 BB/9 K in 17 2/3 IP, up and comer bottomed out in 2011)

Royals on the Farm 8/30

2011-08-30T18:37:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Round Rock 3, Storm Chasers 2

LF Lough 2-3, BB, RBI (62), CS (7) -- .316
SS Falu 2-4, 2B (10), SB (21) -- .293
3B-1B Arias 2-3, 2 2B (12), RS -- .225
2B Y. Navarro 0-4, RBI (7), 2 K, CS (4) -- .228
RF Cain 0-4, 2 K -- .309
1B Robinson 0-1 -- .327, left game in 2nd

Montgomery 4 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, BB, 6 K, HRA, 2 WP -- L, 5-10, 5.40 ERA
Tejeda 2 2/3 IP, ER, H, K, HRA -- 3.77 ERA
Sisk 2 IP, BB, 3 K -- 1.45 ERA

* Round Rock dealt Mike Montgomery his 10th loss of the season on Tuesday. Montgomery left the bases full in the 1st but gave up a solo homer and RBI double in the 2nd. Yamaico Navarro hit an RBI fielder's choice in the 4th. Robinson Tejeda gave up Taylor Teagarden's 2nd homer of the game in the 6th. David Lough hit an RBI groundout in the 8th and Omaha squandered an Irving Falu double in the 9th. Omaha is 77-60. Memphis lost so the magic number dropped to 2. 2B Johnny Giavotella was named Omaha's player of the year and P Luis Mendoza was named Omaha pitcher of the year. Omaha would play the Express in round 1 of the PCL playoffs should the present positions hold.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 7, Arkansas 2

CF Orlando 2-5, 3B (10), RBI (23), K, 2 RS -- .315
SS Colon 2-4, BB, 3B (2), RBI (60), RS -- .258
1B Romak 1-2, 2 BB, HR (23), 2 RBI (69), K, 2 RS -- .257
LF-1B Seratelli 1-4, 2 RBI (63), SB (34) -- .283, efforts rewarded with NWA player of year award
DH T. Smith 1-3, BB, 2B (12), RBI (42) -- .294
RF Myers 1-4, 2B (22), K, RS -- .260

W. Smith 7 IP, UER, 3 H, 3 BB, 10 K, WP, E (2) -- W, 13-9, 3.85 ERA, NWA pitcher of the year
Hardy 2 IP, ER, 2 H, 2 K -- 1.45 ERA

* The Naturals put together 6 late runs to win Tuesday. Will Smith worked out of a jam in the 2nd, and Jamie Romak led off the NW Arkansas 2nd with his 23rd homer. Smith retired 11 in a row but gave up a run-scoring wild pitch in the 7th to tie it. The offense picked him up with 4 runs in the inning on bases-loaded walks by Romak and Tim Smith and a 2-run Anthony Seratelli single. Blaine Hardy allowed a run in the 8th but the Nats answered with 3 on back-to-back RBI triples by Paulo Orlando and Christian Colon. NWA is 34-30. Game 2 is Wednesday. Elisaul Pimentel will make his Nats debut. The Nats roster is littered with players headed to the Arizona Fall League this fall. Pitchers Jeremy Jeffress, Brendan Lafferty, Nate Adcock and Bryan Paukovits will join OF Wil Myers, 1B Clint Robinson and SS Christian Colon in the AFL.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Myrtle Beach 6, Blue Rocks 2

LF Testa 1-4, HR (7), RBI (41), K, RS -- .284
1B Lewis 0-3, SF, RBI (22) -- .205
CF Prades 0-3, BB, 2 K -- .300

Melville 4 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, 5 BB, 5 K, 2 WP -- L, 10-10, 4.49 ERA
Keck 2 1/3 IP, ER, 3 H, 2 BB, K, WP -- 6.10 ERA
Paukovits 2 IP, ER, 2 H, 2 K -- 3.52 ERA

* The Rocks were limited to only 2 hits in Tuesday's loss. The Pelicans scored first in the 3rd but Carlo Testa stayed hot by slamming his 7th homer in the bottom of the inning. Myrtle Beach took the lead again in the 4th, then added 2 in the 5th off Tim Melville and Jon Keck. The Pelicans made it 5-1 in the 6th, and Joey Lewis hit a sac fly in the 7th to cut it back to 3 runs. Myrtle Beach scored a run in the 8th and that was all it took. Wilmington is 27-37. Game 3 is Wednesday. Justin Marks will start. Neither Rocks honoree is still with the team as IF Rey Navarro and P Jake Odorizzi earned the team honors.

A - Kane County: Peoria 8, Cougars 7

2B-3B Franco 2-4, 2 S, 2 RBI (26), RS, SB (5) -- .253
CF Eibner 2-3, 3 BB, 2B (13), K -- .211
RF Llanos 2-4, 2B (18), K -- .249
1B Kuebler 1-3, 2 BB, 2B (17), 2 RBI (30), 2 RS -- .217
DH Beltre 0-3, 2 BB, S, RBI (37), K -- .253
LF Fletcher 0-3, 2 BB, 2 K -- .333, Kane Cty player of the year
3B Cuthbert 0-3, 2 K -- .272
The Cougars stranded 14.

L. Perez 3 2/3 IP, 7 ER, 10 H, 3 K, WP, balk -- L, 7-13, 3.53 ERA
Garrido 2 1/3 IP, 4 H, K -- 6.52 ERA
Rivers 2 IP, H, 2 K -- 4.12 ERA
Carl IP, ER, 2 H, BB -- 9.00 ERA, Cougar debut

* The Cougars almost overcame a big Peoria rally, but couldn't quite get over the hump Tuesday. Leondy Perez and Santiago Garrido gave up 7 runs in the 4th. Kane County loaded the bases with 0 out in the 4th and Angel Franco hit an RBI groundout before 2 run-scoring wild pitches trimmed it to 7-3. Jake Kuebler hit a 2-run double in the 7th and Franco singled in a run to cut it to 7-6. Edwin Carl made his KC debut in the 9th and allowed a run that came in handy, as Geulin Beltre hit an RBI fielder's choice in the inning, but the Cougars couldn't get it tied. KC is 34-30. A 3-game set at the Cedar Rapids Kernels (26-37, A Angels) starts Wednesday. Greg Billo was named Kane County's pitcher of the year.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: A 4-game home set with the Orem Owlz (18-10, Rookie Angels) starts tonight. OF Runey Davis was named IF player of the year and, who else, Edwin Carl, was named IF pitcher of the year.

Rookie - Burlington: Johnson City 4, B-Royals 3

2B Hamblen 2-3, 2B, 3B, RBI (3), K, RS -- .121
DH J. Rodriguez 1-3, 2B (5), RBI (14), K, CS (4) -- .252
1B Watts 1-4, HR (15), RBI (44), K, RS -- .222
SS Trapp 0-4, K -- .259

Ridings 4 1/3 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, 5 K -- 3.92 ERA
A. Gonzalez 3 2/3 IP, ER, 3 H, BB, 3 K -- L, 2-2, 4.66 ERA

* It was another day, another 1-run loss for the Royals as Johnson City swept the season-ending series. The Cardinals scored 2 runs in the 1st off Matt Ridings but Murray Watts led off the 2nd with his 15th homer and Derek Hamblen tripled home the tying run. Johnson City regained the lead in the bottom of the 2nd, but Jose Rodriguez doubled in Hamblen in the 5th to retie it. The tie didn't last long as Johnson City got to Abel Gonzalez for a run in the 6th. The last 4 Royals went down in order to bring the season to a sour end. The Royals finished 24-44. Stat recap tomorrow. OF Jorge Bonifacio was Burlington's player of the year and P Nick Graffeo was Burlington's pitcher of the year.

Rookie - AZL: The Royals finished 22-34

OPS rundown
IF Nick DelGuidice 1.121 OPS, arguably best debut of any 2011 Royals newbies, and he was a non-drafted FA, AZL Royals player of the year
OF D'Andre Toney 1.018 OPS -- .340/.432/.587, 32 RS, 12 2B, 5 3B, 5 HR, 29 RBI, 14 BB/28 K, 7/18 SB, 3 E in 43 G/150 ABs -- other than his SB%, nothing to complain about in pro debut, led the team in several categories
2B Adrian Morales .904 OPS -- .323/.436/.468, 22 RS, 6 2B, 4 HR, 28 RBI, 22 BB/24 K, 5/8 SB, 10 E in 34 G/124 ABs -- another one of the cream of the 2011 crop, not bad for 49th rounder
OF Terrance Gore .852 OPS -- .340/.447/.404, 22 RS, 2 2B, 2 3B, 16 RBI, 15 BB/21 K, 17/17 SB, 2 E in 35 G/94 ABs -- stat line looks like Toney with less pop, better SB instincts, maybe little better plate discipline?
IF Nick Cuckovich .785 OPS -- .302/.418/.367, 23 RS, 7 2B, 3B, 19 RBI, 23 BB/39 K, 24/30 SB, 10 E in 37 G/139 ABs -- led team in BB and SB, held his own in pro debut
Others....IF Carlos Garcia .731 (12 XBH, 16 E in 40 G/147 ABs)...C Rainier Bello .690 (notable as being top C at level)...C Travis Lane .682 (better OBP, less pop than Bello, actually had more XBH than Rainier but in many more ABs)...OF Jerico Blanco .663 (.294 OBP, 9 2B, 23 RBI, 38 K in 47 G/168 ABs)...OF Jerrell Allen .650...SS Humberto Arteaga .614...1B Brian Gaylord .594...C Cameron Gallagher .389 (.141/.209/.179, 6 RS, HR, 7 RBI, 7 BB/15 K, E in 20 G/78 ABs, rough intro as he brings up the rear, but it's only upward and onward from here, right?)

WHIP rundown
Clayton Schulz 0.66 -- 2-0, 0.00 ERA, 2 BB/17 K in 4 G (1 start) and 16 2/3 IP -- no complaints
Andrew Stueve 1.02 -- 1-3, 2.09, 6 SV, 6 BB/40 K in 22 G (1 start) and 43 IP -- good enough for a promotion -- named AZL pitcher of year for Royals
Ali Williams 1.43 -- 1-1, 3.89, 2 HRA, 10 BB/35 K in 13 G (3 starts) and 37 IP -- that's not a good dropoff from 2nd to 3rd
Eric Diaz 1.45 -- 1-4, 5.65, 3 HRA, 16 BB/42 K in 12 G (9 starts) and 51 IP -- also not great, but both he and Williams had OK K/BB
Casey Edelbrock 1.53 -- 0-2, 8.04, HRA, 5 BB/19 K in 8 G and 15 2/3 IP
Others....Julio "Max" Morales 1.71 (tied for team lead with 3 wins, 22 BB/41 K in 42 IP)...Christian Witt 1.77 (also had 3 wins, 9.11 ERA, 4 HRA, 7 BB/19 K in 27 2/3 IP)...Fernando Cruz 1.90 (15 BB/17 K in 23 2/3 IP, transition to pitcher didn't go well)...Stephen Lumpkins 2.07 (22 BB/26 K in 33 1/3 IP)...Andrew Durden 2.21 (only 6 1/3 IP)...Cesar Ogando 2.34 (10.52 ERA, 4 HRA, 24 BB/23 K in 12 G (11 starts) and 31 2/3 IP, ugly stats)

Royals on the Farm 8/29

2011-08-29T21:13:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 4, Round Rock 3

RF Cain 2-4, RBI (77), RS, SB (15), assist at second -- .312
1B Robinson 1-4, 2 RBI (99), K -- .328
LF Lough 0-2, BB, SF, RBI (61) -- .313

Mazzaro 6 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 7 H, 3 BB, 5 K, WP -- W, 7-2, 4.29 ERA
Lebron 3 IP, 2 BB, 3 K -- SV, 1, 0.71 ERA

* Willy Lebron came up with 3 great innings of relief to back up Vin Mazzaro as Omaha pruned its magic number for the PCL playoffs to 3. Jarrod Dyson tripled and scored on a David Lough sac fly in the 1st but Round Rock scored 2 in the 3rd and another in the 4th to take a 3-1 lead. Lorenzo Cain singled in a run and Clint Robinson hit a 2-run single in the 5th to flip the lead to 4-3 Omaha. Mazzaro retired the last 5 he faced, and Lebron walked 2 over the last 3 innings but finished strong to lock down his 1st AAA save of 2011. Omaha is 77-59. Game 2 is Tuesday. Mike Montgomery will start. Robinson, Johnny Giavotella and Luis Mendoza made the 2011 All-PCL team as 3 of the 12-member team. Former Omaha players Jai Miller and Victor Marte also made the team, oddly.

AA - NW Arkansas: Tulsa 13, Naturals 9 (10)

C Theriot 4-4, 2 2B (8), 2 RS, PB (8) -- .300
2B Bianchi 4-5, 2 RS, SB (20) -- .262
1B Romak 3-4, BB, 2B (21), RBI (67), 2 RS -- .256
SS Colon 2-6, 2 RBI (59), K, 2 RS -- .255
DH T. Smith 2-3, BB, SF, 2B (11), 2 RBI (41), RS -- .294
RF Myers 2-5, 2 RBI (46), 2 K -- .260
LF Orlando 1-5, RBI (22), K, CS (3) -- .312

Baumann 2 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, BB, K, HRA -- 4.17 ERA
Volz 3 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 3 H, BB, 3 K, HRA, WP -- 7.36 ERA, Naturals debut
E. Garcia 4 IP, 8 R (5 ER), 6 H, 2 BB, K, 4 HRA -- L, 1-3, 3.73 ERA, guess they didn't want to use another pitcher?

* The Naturals forced extras but Edgar Garcia was teeing 'em up for the Drillers. Tulsa got the first of its 6 HR with a 2-run shot in the 1st. Kendal Volz came in to strand 2 in the 3rd and the Naturals tied it on a Christian Colon RBI single and Tim Smith sac fly. Another 2-run homer helped make it 5-2 in the 6th but a Paulo Orlando single scored 2 runs in the bottom of the frame thanks to a Tulsa error. Tulsa got back-to-back homers in the 7th to make it 8-4. Colon and Smith hit RBI singles and Wil Myers hit a 2-run single to tie the game as the Naturals surged back once more. Tulsa scored a run in the 8th and Jamie Romak hit a clutch RBI double in the 9th to tie the game at 9. Garcia gave up a 3-run homer and solo homer in the 10th, however, as Tulsa drove a stake into the Naturals. The Nats stranded 1 in the 10th. The Naturals are 33-30 and their lead is only 1 game on the Drillers at this point. A 4-game home set with the Arkansas Travelers (28-35, AA Angels) starts Tuesday.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 2, Myrtle Beach 0 (4-hitter)

RF Van Stratten 2-3, S, RBI (26), CS (3) -- .290
CF Prades 2-4, RBI (24), CS (7) -- .303
2B Merrifield 0-3, BB, RS -- .258
LF Testa 1-4, RS, K -- .285

Caldwell 5 2/3 IP, H, BB, 6 K -- W, 2-0, 1.64 ERA
C. White 3 1/3 IP, 3 H, BB, 3 K -- SV, 1, 0.00 ERA, Rocks debut

* Allen Caldwell and Cole White collaborated on a 4-hit gem Monday. Nick Van Stratten hit an RBI groundout in the 1st. Caldwell retired 9 in a row at one point but neither he nor White ever really coasted thereafter. They got the job done, tho. Yem Prades singled in a run in the 8th but the Rocks left the bases full. The pitching made that a moot point, however. Wilmington is 27-36. Game 2 is Tuesday. Tim Melville will start. Carlo Testa was named Carolina Lg Player of the Week for Aug 22-28. He hit .476 with 2 HR and 6 RBI in the week.

A - Kane County: Cougars 5, Peoria 4

SS Calixte 3-4, K, RS, E (20) -- .207
1B Kuebler 1-4, 3B (2), 3 RBI (28), 2 K, RS -- .216
DH Pickett 0-3, BB, RBI (4), K -- .261
CF Eibner 0-3, BB -- .206
LF Fletcher 0-4, K -- .336
3B Cuthbert 1-3, BB, 2 K, 2 RS, E (13) -- .275

Adam 5 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 3 H, 3 K -- 4.22 ERA
Giovenco 2 IP, H, 2 K -- 6.97 ERA
Graham IP, 2 H, 2 K -- W, 1-0, 4.91 ERA
Boruff IP, 2 ER, H, 3 BB -- SV, 7, 2.40 ERA

* The Cougars put together a 4-run 8th to get a nice comeback win on Monday. Kane County loaded the bases with 0 out in the 2nd but only got a Cheslor Cuthbert RBI walk. Peoria tied it in the 3rd, then took the lead in the 4th. The 2-1 lead held into the 8th, when the Cougars loaded the bases with 2 outs and Jake Kuebler ripped a 3-run triple and scored on an error on the play. Chase Boruff walked in a run and allowed another run to score before leaving the tying run at third in the 9th. KC is 34-29. Leondy Perez starts the series finale Tuesday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: off day

Rookie - Burlington: Johnson City 5, B-Royals 4

LF Conner 2-4, HR (2), RBI (11), 2 K, RS, CS (7) -- .256
RF Bonifacio 1-4, HR (7), 2 RBI (30), K, RS -- .284
2B Hamblen 0-3, RBI (2), SB (3), 2 E (6) -- .095
SS Trapp 1-2, 2 HBP, RS, 3 SB (31), E (22) -- .264

A. Baez 4 1/3 IP, 4 R (2 ER), 9 H, BB, 3 K, E (2) -- 7.09 ERA
A. Ferguson 2 2/3 IP, ER, 3 H, BB, 2 K -- L, 0-3, 5.45 ERA
Middendorf IP, nothing -- 11.42 ERA

* A seesaw game went the way of the Cardinals, as usual. Lane Adams was thrown out at the plate in a busy but fruitless Royals 1st, and Angel Baez allowed a Johnson City run. The Royals took the lead on a 2-run homer by Jorge Bonifacio (his 7th) in the 4th, but the Cards tied it off Baez in the inning. Adrian Bringas doubled and scored on a Derek Hamblen groundout in the 5th but the Cards scored 2 that inning thanks in part to 3 Royal errors. Cameron Conner led off the 6th with his 2nd homer to retie it but the Cards scored the go-ahead run in the 7th and made it stick that time. The B-Royals are 24-43. They finish the season Tuesday.

Rookie - AZL: Royals 9, Mariners 2

LF Toney 3-4, 3B (5), HR (5), 3 RBI (29), 3 RS -- .347, ends season on high note
C Lane 2-4, RBI (22), RS, CS (3), PB (9) -- .260
3B Cuckovich 1-4, 2B (7), 2 RBI (19), K -- .302
1B Gaylord 1-4, 2B (11), 2 RBI (26), RS -- .200
SS Garcia 1-4, RBI (22), 2 RS, E (16) -- .272
DH Gallagher 1-4, K -- .141
2B Morales 0-2, K -- .323, ejected in 4th
CF Gore 0-2, BB, RS -- .340

Hodgson 2 IP, BB, K -- 0.00 ERA
Schulz 5 IP, 2 UER, 3 H, BB, 5 K -- W, 2-0, 0.00 ERA
Edelbrock 2 IP, 5 K -- 8.62 ERA

* The Royals ended the season in style by pounding the Mariners Monday. D'Andre Toney led off the 1st with a triple, scored on a Carlos Garcia single, and Travis Lane singled in Garcia to make it 2-0 Royals. Toney came back up in the 3rd and slammed a 2-run homer (his 5th) to make it 4-0. Clayton Schulz allowed a run in the 4th but Brian Gaylord hit an RBI groundout in the 4th to keep the 4-run lead intact. The M's scored a run in the 7th but the Royals put the game away that inning with 4 runs on a Gaylord RBI double, Toney RBI single, and 2-run Nick Cuckovich double. Casey Edelbrock retired all 6 he faced. The Royals finished the season 22-34 and 16 games back of the Rangers. The final stat rehash will come tomorrow.

Royals on the Farm 8/28

2011-08-28T17:15:00.003-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 11, New Orleans 10

RF Falu 3-5, BB, 2B (9), RBI (43), RS, SB (20), CS (10) -- .294
2B Zawadzki 3-5, 2 RS -- .248
1B Ka'aihue 2-5, 2 RBI (65) -- .277
LF Dyson 2-4, BB, S, 2 RS, E (6) -- .286
CF Cain 2-4, HBP, SF, RBI (76), K, 3 RS, assist at home -- .310
SS Y. Navarro 2-5, K, E (6) -- .250
DH Robinson 1-4, HBP, HR (23), 2 RBI (97), K, RS -- .329
3B Arias 1-5, HR (3), RBI (22), RS -- .218
Omaha stranded 10.

O'Sullivan 2 IP, 6 ER, 7 H, K, HRA -- 3.79 ERA
Pucetas 4 2/3 IP, 3 H, BB, K -- W, 6-6, 5.20 ERA
Chavez IP, 3 ER, 3 H, HRA -- 3.75 ERA
Herrera 1 1/3 IP, UER, H, E -- SV, 6, 0.69 ERA

* The Chasers came back from down, 6-1, to hold on for the win. Lorenzo Cain hit a sac fly in the 1st but Sean O'Sullivan gave up a 2-run homer in the bottom of the inning. O'Sullivan gave up 4 more runs in the 2nd. Cain nailed a runner at the plate to end the New Orleans 3rd and the Chasers got the offense going in the 4th. Joaquin Arias hit his 3rd homer and an Irving Falu double scored 2 runs to cut it to 6-4. Clint Robinson went deep in the 5th as his 23rd homer was a 2-run shot to tie the game. Omaha took over in the 6th as 4 runs scored on a 2-run error and 2-run Kila Ka'aihue single. Another run-scoring error made it 11-6 in the 8th. The Zephyrs scored 3 runs off Jesse Chavez in the 8th to get back in the game. Kelvin Herrera had some struggles in the 9th as the Zephyrs scored a run but left the tying run at third. Omaha is 76-59 and has a magic number of 4. A 4-game home set with the Round Rock Express (80-55, AAA Rangers) starts Monday. Vin Mazzaro is set to start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Tulsa 7, Naturals 5

LF Orlando 3-4, HR (3), 2 RBI (21), 2 RS -- .316
CF Robinson 1-4, BB, 2 RBI (23) -- .251
DH Romak 1-5, RBI (66), 2 K -- .251
2B Colon 1-4, HBP, 2 K, RS -- .254
RF Myers 0-4, 3 K -- .258

Odorizzi 5 1/3 IP, 6 ER, 7 H, 2 BB, 4 K, HRA -- L, 4-3, 5.25 ERA
Chapman 3 1/3 IP, ER, 3 H, BB, 5 K, HRA -- 4.95 ERA
Dobies 1/3 IP, nothing -- 6.06 ERA

* An early Tulsa pounding of Jake Odorizzi held up on Sunday. Tulsa scored 2 in the 1st and got a 3-run homer off Odorizzi in the 2nd. Jamie Romak singled in a run in the 3rd and Tulsa added a run in the 6th to make it 6-1. Paulo Orlando singled in a run in the 6th and Derrick Robinson added a 2-run single to cut it to 6-4. Orlando went deep in the 8th for his 3rd of the season for NWA, but Tulsa got a solo homer in the 9th off Kevin Chapman. NWA is 33-28. The series ends Monday. P Jeremy Jeffress was put on the DL with his ankle bruise, and Mario Santiago also hit the DL.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 5, Salem 4

2B Merrifield 2-3, 2 BB, 3B (3), RBI (34), SB (22) -- .260
CF Testa 1-4, BB, HR (6), 2 RBI (40), 2 K, RS -- .285
SS Batista 1-4, 2B (15), RBI (21), 2 K, RS -- .215

Sample 5 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 3 H, 4 BB, 4 K, 2 WP -- 5.50 ERA, also hit 4 batters
Dennick 2 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, BB, 2 K -- 4.35 ERA
Stueve 2 IP, 3 K -- W, 1-0, 0.00 ERA, Rocks debut after promotion from AZL

* The Rocks blew 2 leads but salvaged the game in the 9th. The Rocks left 2 in scoring position in the 1st and Salem scored a run off Tyler Sample in the 1st. Deivy Batista doubled in a run and Whit Merrifield tripled in a run in the 2nd to give the Rocks a 2-1 lead. Sample allowed the tying run in the 3rd, and worked out of tight spots in the 4th and 5th as he labored. Carlo Testa hit a 2-run inside-the-park homer in the 7th for his 6th of the season. Ryan Dennick couldn't hold the newfound lead as the Sox scored 2 in the 7th. Errant pitching helped the Rocks in the 9th as Merrifield walked, advanced on an error on a pickoff attempt, advanced to third on a wild pitch third strike, then scored on a wild pitch. Andrew Stueve retired all 6 he faced in his Carolina League debut to pick up the win. Wilmington is 26-36. A 4-game home set with the Myrtle Beach Pelicans (29-34, A-Adv. Rangers) starts Monday. Allen Caldwell will start. Stueve and Cole White were brought up, as Kendal Volz and Elisaul Pimentel got bumped to AA.

A - Kane County: Peoria 2, Cougars 0 (1-hitter)

1B Kuebler 1-3 -- .215
3B Cuthbert 0-3, BB, 2 K, E (12) -- .274
LF Fletcher 0-2, BB, CS (4) -- .341
CF Eibner 0-2, BB -- .208

Ventura 5 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, BB, 5 K, HRA, WP -- L, 3-6, 4.42 ERA
A. Cruz 2 IP, H, K -- 2.79 ERA
Rogers 2 IP, H, BB, K -- 1.98 ERA

* The Cougars were nearly no-hit by Luis Liria and Yoannis Negrin on Sunday. Yordano Ventura gave up single runs in the 3rd and 4th and Kane County's only hit came with 1 out in the 6th. They stranded 2 that inning and Negrin brought it home. KC is 33-29. Jason Adam pitches game 3 on Monday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 7, Great Falls 1 (Sat.)

DH Espy 4-5, 2 2B (15), 3 RBI (36), RS -- .314
1B Moreno 2-5, RBI (33) -- .269
3B Threlkeld 2-5, 3 K, RS -- .275
CF Chism 1-3, 2 BB, 2B (11), RBI (34), RS -- .267
SS DelGuidice 1-3, SF, RBI (9), K, RS -- .413
LF Fradejas 1-4, RBI (10), K, RS -- .292
RF Davis 1-4, 2B (14), K, RS -- .329

B. Martin 7 IP, ER, 4 H, 5 K, HRA, pickoff -- W, 3-6, 4.36 ERA
Penny 2 IP, 2 K -- SV, 1, 8.93 ERA

* Brennon Martin pitched well and the Chukars used a late surge to beat the Voyagers. Richard Espy was thrown out at third to end the IF 1st and Martin served up a leadoff homer in the 1st as Great Falls grabbed the early momentum. IF stranded 2 in the 4th and Martin pitched well the rest of the way. The offense finally picked him up in the 7th as Nick DelGuidice hit a sac fly, an error scored a run and Tyler Chism doubled in a run to make it 3-1. Espy came up with a 3-run double in the 9th and Henry Moreno singled in a run to make it 7-1. Robert Penny retired all 6 he faced.

Great Falls 3, Chukars 2

RF Davis 0-2, SF, RBI (36), K -- .325
C Escobar 1-3, 2B (11), K, RS -- .295
DH Moreno 1-3, K, RS -- .270
1B DelGuidice 0-3, 2 K -- .388

Moen 3 IP, 2 K -- 6.31 ERA
J. Sanchez 3 IP, 3 ER, 3 H, BB, 2 K -- L, 2-4, 9.19 ERA
Avinazar 2 IP, H, 3 BB, K -- 8.88 ERA

* Both teams had 4 hits but the Voyagers wrung a little more out of theirs to win Sunday. Jose Sanchez took over after 3 perfect innings from Kellen Moen, and the Voyagers scored 3 runs in the 4th. The Voyagers retired 20 straight Chukars at one point but Henry Moreno scored on a passed ball in the 8th and Runey Davis added a sac fly to cut it to 3-2. The tying run was stranded at second in the 9th. IF is 12-16. The Chukars have Monday off.

Rookie - Burlington: Johnson City 8, B-Royals 6

DH S. Brooks 2-4, 2 RBI (6), CS (2) -- .288
3B Bringas 1-3, BB, 2B (11), 2 RBI (16), K -- .230
LF Conner 1-5, RBI (10), 2 K, 3 SB (16) -- .250
C Swab 0-1, HBP, RBI (15), E (6) -- .243, left after HBP in 3rd
SS Trapp 0-5, 2 K -- .262

R. Brown 1 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, 2 K -- 4.31 ERA
Pizziconi 3 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, K, HRA -- L, 1-2, 6.81 ERA
Culver 2 2/3 IP, H, BB, 4 K, 2 WP -- 8.03 ERA

* Johnson City kept the upper hand on the Royals as a 3-run 6th was the difference. The Royals scored a run on an Adrian Bringas double in the 2nd but the Cards scored 4 in the inning off Rudy Brown and Andrea Pizziconi. Cameron Conner singled in a run in the 3rd and Kenny Swab took a bases-loaded HBP in the 3rd to cut it to 4-3. The Cards scored a run in the 4th but the Royals scored 3 in the 5th on a Bringas bases-loaded walk and Steven Brooks 2-run single to make it 6-5. Pizziconi gave up a 2-run homer in the 6th and Malcom Culver wild pitched home a run. Burlington is 24-42. Game 2 is Monday with Angel Baez starting.

Rookie - AZL: Rangers 8, Royals 0 (Sat.)

SS Arteaga 2-3, E (15) -- .254
3B Cuckovich 1-4, 2 K -- .308
RF Blanco 1-3, BB, K -- .268
DH Gallagher 0-4, K -- .114, 0-fer at least his last 24

M. Morales 5 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 4 H, 2 BB, 5 K -- L, 3-5, 6.64 ERA
N. Blanco IP, 3 UER, H, 2 BB, K, WP -- 3.52 ERA
Durden 2 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, 3 K, HRA -- 9.95 ERA
Stueve IP, nothing -- 2.09 ERA

* The Royals and Rangers played Saturday after all, but it must have been up to the Royals to report the results, because it didn't post until last night's report was written and the story wasn't pretty. The Rangers got their first run in the 4th and the Royals left the bases full in their half. The Rangers added 2 in the 5th, 3 in the 6th and 2 in the 8th. Sixteen Royals in a row went down until they got 2 2-out singles in the 9th. Nothing was made of it, tho.

Royals 17, Padres 6

C Marquez 4-6, 3 RBI (7), K, 2 RS -- .250
CF Toney 3-4, BB, SF, HBP, 3B (4), 3 RBI (26), K, 3 RS, E (3) -- .336
LF Gore 3-5, HBP, 3 RS, SB (17) -- .348
RF Allen 3-6, 2 RS -- .240
SS Arteaga 2-6, S, 2 2B (11), 5 RBI (28), K, 2 RS -- .256
2B Morales 2-6, HR (4), 2 RBI (28), K, 2 RS, 2 SB (5), E (10) -- .328
DH Gallagher 2-4, 2 BB, RBI (7), K, 2 RS -- .135, snaps out of slump
3B Cuckovich 1-5, BB, RBI (17), 3 K, SB (24) -- .304
The Royals stranded 12.

Ogando 4 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, 3 BB, K, balk -- 10.52 ERA
Edelen 2 IP, 3 R (1 ER), H, 2 BB, 2 K -- W, 2-1, 7.23 ERA
F. Cruz 3 IP, 2 H, BB, 2 K -- SV, 1, 7.99 ERA

* The Royals turned it on late to roll past the Pads Sunday. The Padres took the early lead with 2 in the 1st, but the Royals answered in the 3rd with 3 runs on a Humberto Arteaga RBI double, run-scoring wild pitch and Cameron Gallagher RBI single. The Royals added 2 runs in the 4th on a D'Andre Toney sac fly and Arteaga RBI groundout. The Pads scored 1 in the 4th but Adrian Morales hit his 4th homer in the 5th to make it 6-3. Toney tripled in a run and scored on a Nick Cuckovich single to make it 8-3. The Friars scored 3 runs in the 6th off Brian Edelen to cut it to 8-6, but it was all Royals thereafter. Alex Marquez singled in a run and an error scored a run in the 7th to make it 10-6. The Royals poured it on in the 8th with 7 runs on a 2-run Marquez single, a Toney RBI single, a 3-run Arteaga double and a Morales RBI single. The Royals are 21-34. The season ends with Monday's game with the Mariners.

Royals on the Farm 8/27

2011-08-27T21:15:00.003-05:00

AAA - Omaha: New Orleans 6, Storm Chasers 3

RF Cain 4-4, 2B (28), RS, CS (6), assist at home -- .309
1B Robinson 2-4, 2B (35), RBI (95), K, RS -- .329
DH Ka'aihue 1-4, HR (11), 2 RBI (63), 2 K, RS -- .275
LF Lough 1-5, 2 K -- .315

Suppan 5 1/3 IP, 5 ER, 9 H, BB, 3 K -- L, 11-7, 4.54 ERA
Miner 2 2/3 IP, ER, 4 H, 4 K, 2 WP -- 1.83 ERA

* The Zephyrs outlasted the Chasers, but a Memphis loss still cut the Chasers' magic number to 5. Jeff Suppan gave up 2 doubles for a run in the 1st and the Zephyrs churned out 3 runs in the 5th to make it 4-0. Omaha had wasted a chance or two early but got a Clint Robinson RBI double in the 6th and a 2-run Kila Ka'aihue blast (his 11th) to cut the lead to 4-3. Zach Miner gave up an RBI double in the 6th and then did the same again in the 7th. Omaha stranded 2 in the 8th and 9th. The Chasers are 75-59. The series wraps Sunday. Sean O'Sullivan will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Tulsa 5, Naturals 4 (10)

RF Myers 2-5, HR (7), 2 RBI (44), 2 K, RS -- .262
1B Seratelli 0-4, BB, RBI (61), K, SB (33) -- .283
2B Colon 1-4, S, K, RS -- .254

Dwyer 7 IP, 4 ER, 4 H, BB, 7 K, 2 HRA -- 5.80 ERA, hurt by the longball tonight
Hardy 3 IP, ER, 3 H, BB, 4 K, HRA, 2 WP -- L, 2-1, 1.27 ERA

* The Naturals started strong but couldn't maintain as their lead wasted away and they fell in 10. A run-scoring error, Anthony Seratelli RBI groundout and Wil Myers RBI single made it 3-0 NWA after 1. Chris Dwyer gave up a solo homer in the 2nd and another run in the 3rd to trim the lead to 1. Dwyer gave up a solo homer in the 6th to tie it, but the Nats answered with a Myers solo homer in the bottom of the frame for his 7th of the season. Dwyer gave up 2 doubles in the 7th to retie it. Blaine Hardy gave up a solo homer in the 10th and the Naturals left the tying run at second in the bottom of the inning. NWA is 33-28. Game 2 is Sunday. Jake Odorizzi will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Salem 10, Blue Rocks 9 (10)

LF Testa 3-5, BB, HR (5), 3 RBI (38), K, RS, SB (17), picked off -- .286
RF Van Stratten 2-6, 2 2B (14), 2 K, 2 RS -- .289
1B Stovall 2-5, BB, 2B (14), HR (2), 2 RBI (15), K, RS, CS (3), E (8) -- .238
SS Batista 2-5, BB, K, RS -- .215
CF Prades 1-5, SF, RBI (15), E (2) -- .300
2B Liberto 1-4, BB, RBI (5), K, 2 RS, SB (2) -- .250
Wilmington stranded 10.

E. Pimentel 4 IP, ER, 4 H, 4 K -- 3.59 ERA
Odenbach 3 IP, 5 R (3 ER), 5 H, 2 BB, 4 K -- 3.25 ERA
Cuevas 3 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, 2 BB, K, 4 WP -- BS, 1, 9.00 ERA
Paukovits 2/3 IP, 2 UER, H, BB -- BS, 3, L, 2-3, 3.48 ERA

* Wilmington lost three leads in Saturday's loss. The Rocks took command with 5 runs in the 4th on a Ryan Stovall solo homer (his 2nd), a Mike Liberto RBI fielder's choice, a Yem Prades sac fly and a 2-run Carlo Testa homer (his 5th). Elisaul Pimentel allowed a run in the 4th, then Dusty Odenbach allowed 4 runs in the 5th to tie the game. The Rocks left the bases full in the 6th and Salem notched a run that inning to take the lead. A run-scoring wild pitch and a Testa RBI single in the 8th made it 7-6 Rocks. An error made it 8-6 Rocks in the 9th but Gary Cuevas couldn't hold the lead. Ryan Stovall hit a go-ahead double in the 11th and Bryan Paukovits came on to try and finish it, but Stovall made a run-scoring error and the Sox got a walkoff sac fly. Wilmington is 25-36. The series ends Sunday. C Jose Bonilla went on the DL with a "lower body injury" (what is this, hockey?) and Travis Jones was moved up. Tyler Sample will start Sunday.

A - Kane County: Peoria 4, Cougars 3

RF Llanos 3-4, RS -- .248
2B Espinal 2-3, RS -- .191
3B Franco 1-4, SF, 2 RBI (24) -- .256
CF Eibner 0-4, K -- .210
LF Fletcher 1-4, RS, assist at home -- .343

Billo 6 IP, 4 ER, 11 H, 2 BB, 4 K, E -- L, 9-5, 1.94 ERA
J. Mitchell 3 IP, H, K -- 1.26 ERA

* Kane County didn't get the offense going until late, then didn't get enough to come back. Brian Fletcher teamed up with Orlando Calixte to throw out a Chief at the plate in the 1st but Greg Billo wasn't on top of his game as Peoria scored 4 in the 2nd. The Cougars were hitless until scraping out 2 singles in the 5th. They loaded the bases with 0 out in the 8th but an Angel Franco sac fly was all they got out of it. A Peoria error scored a Cougar run in the 9th and Franco singled in a run, but the game ended with a bang as Cheslor Cuthbert was thrown out at the plate as the would-be tying run. KC is 33-28. Yordano Ventura will start game 2 Sunday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 5, Great Falls 3 (10/Fri.)

2B Piterson 3-5, RS, CS (2) -- .280
CF Chism 2-5, RBI (33), K -- .266
1B Espy 2-4, S, HR (7), RBI (33), RS -- .302
C Escobar 2-5, RBI (17), RS -- .294
RF Elder 2-3, 2 BB, 2B (9) -- .303, Eazy Es in effect on Friday
LF Sandford 0-3, SF, RBI (18), K -- .248
SS DelGuidice 1-4, 2B (6), RS, E (3) -- .419

Peacock 4 2/3 IP, 2 UER, 3 H, 2 BB, 8 K -- 3.99 ERA
Patton 2 1/3 IP, H, BB, 4 K -- 3.79 ERA
Carl 2 IP, ER, 2 H, 3 K -- BS, 1, W, 3-1, 1.36 ERA, not his finest outing, but K/BB is up to 71/3 in 33 IP
N. Johnson IP, H -- SV, 2, 4.68 ERA

* The Chukars lost the lead in the 9th, but recovered in the 10th. Great Falls scored first in the 4th, then got an RBI triple in the 5th off Brian Peacock. Richard Espy went deep in the 6th for his 7th of the season, then Darian Sandford hit a sac fly and Tyler Chism singled in the go-ahead run in the 7th. Edwin Carl did his thing and struck out 2 in the 8th, but gave up a leadoff triple in the 9th before a single helped him to his first blown save. The Chukars loaded the bases with 1 out in the 10th and an Edul Escobar forceout scored 2 thanks to an error on the play. Nathan Johnson got a double play to end it in the 10th. IF is 11-15.

Rookie - Burlington: B-Royals 4, Greeneville 3

2B Trapp 1-5, GW RBI (41), 2 K -- .267
SS Antonio 0-4 -- .262
RF Bonifacio 1-1, 3 BB, RS -- .284

Cantrell 5 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, BB, 7 K, balk -- 4.53 ERA
Hall 3 2/3 IP, 2 H, BB, 4 K -- 5.55 ERA
Middendorf 1/3 IP, nothing -- W, 1-1, 12.91 ERA, picked up first pro win before season's end

* The Royals got a walkoff win in the home finale. The Astros scored 3 runs off Eric Cantrell in the 5th but the Royals rallied with 2 out in the 6th. Jorge Bonifacio singled and scored on an error and then a 2-run error tied the game. David Middendorf came in to strand 2 in the 9th. The Astros made 2 more errors in the Royals 9th and Justin Trapp hit a walkoff single with 2 on and 2 out. The Royals are 24-41. Burlington will finish the season at the Johnson City Cardinals (42-23) as the first of 3 is Sunday.

Rookie - AZL: Either the Royals and Rangers didn't play, or nobody bothered to report the results.

Royals on the Farm 8/26

2011-08-26T20:28:00.003-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 14, New Orleans 1

3B Arias 3-5, 2B (9), HR (2), 3 RBI (21), K, 3 RS -- .222
LF Lough 3-6, 2 RS -- .316
CF Dyson 2-6, 2 RBI (21), 2 K, RS -- .287
1B Robinson 2-5, 2B (34), 2 RBI (94), K, RS -- .328
SS Y. Navarro 2-2, BB, 2 SF, 2B (3), 3B, 2 RBI (6), 2 RS -- .254
DH Ka'aihue 2-5, 2B (19), RBI (61), 2 K, 2 RS -- .275
2B Falu 2-4, S, RBI (42), 2 K -- .292
RF Cain 1-5, 2B (27), 2 RBI (75), K, RS -- .303
C Pina 1-4, BB, RBI (20), K, 2 RS, 3 PB -- .242

Mendoza 6 IP, ER, 7 H, 2 BB, 2 K, HRA, WP -- W, 11-5, 2.15 ERA
Pucetas IP, nothing -- 5.46 ERA
Lebron IP, H, 2 K -- 0.93 ERA
Sisk IP, H, 2 K -- 1.55 ERA

* Everybody got in on the act as a 13-run tear helped the Chasers trim the magic number to 6. Irving Falu hit an RBI single in the 2nd but Luis Mendoza gave up a solo homer in the 2nd to tie it at 1. Yamaico Navarro hit a sac fly in the 4th and Lorenzo Cain hit a 2-run double in the 5th before a Kila Ka'aihue RBI single made it 5-1 Omaha. The Chasers kept it rolling in the 6th with 5 runs on a Manny Pina RBI single, 2-run Jarrod Dyson single, and 2-run Clint Robinson double to stretch it to 10-1. Joaquin Arias clubbed a 3-run homer in the 7th for his 2nd of the season, and Navarro added another sac fly in the 8th for a gravy run. Omaha is 75-58. Game 4 is Saturday. Jeff Suppan will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Springfield 9, Naturals 0 (2-hitter)

3B Lisson 2-3, K -- .275
SS Colon 0-4, 2 K -- .254
RF Paulo Orlando had an assist at home.

Jeffress 2/3 IP, ER, H -- L, 1-3, 4.40 ERA, left after only 15 pitches
Lafferty 3 IP, 4 ER, 4 H, BB, 5 K, WP, pickoff -- 3.79 ERA
Baumann 1 1/3 IP, ER, 4 H, WP -- 4.05 ERA
Paulino 2/3 IP, H, 2 BB, K -- 5.24 ERA
Dobies 2 1/3 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, BB, K, HRA -- 6.19 ERA

* It was an ugly night for the Naturals on Friday. Jeremy Jeffress lasted just 15 pitches as he got drilled in the ankle on a comebacker as the Cards scored 1 in the 1st. They added 5 in the 4th and 3 in the 8th. Meanwhile, the Naturals were no-hit until the 5th and got only Mario Lisson's two singles on the night. NWA is 33-27. A key 3-game home set with the Tulsa Drillers (27-31, AA Rockies) starts Saturday with Chris Dwyer taking the mound. C Salvador Perez was named to the Texas League postseason all-star team.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Salem 7, Blue Rocks 4 (9/G1)

1B Stovall 3-4, 2 2B (4), K, 2 RS -- .233
DH Ferguson 2-3, SF, 2B (8), 2 RBI (28), K, RS -- .211
CF Prades 2-4, SB (6), CS (2) -- .279
LF Merrifield 2-4, 2B (18), K, picked off, E (2) -- .266
3B Whittleman 1-4, 2B (19), RBI (44), K, E (12) -- .244
C Bonilla 0-0, SF, RBI (22) -- .212

Mariot 7 IP, 5 R (2 ER), 5 H, 2 BB, 5 K, pickoff -- L, 5-2, 3.07 ERA
Paukovits IP, 2 UER, H, BB, K, WP -- 2.80 ERA

* Mike Mariot couldn't hold a lead in the 7th as Salem got a comeback win. Tim Ferguson hit an RBI double and Jose Bonilla added a sac fly in the 2nd to spot Wilmington a 2-0 lead. Salem scored a run in the 2nd but John Whittleman doubled in a run in the 3rd to make it 3-1 Rocks. Mariot got hit for 2 runs in the 4th but Ferguson hit a sac fly in the 6th to make it 4-3 Rocks. Salem scratched out 2 runs off Mariot in the 7th, then added 2 in the 8th off Bryan Paukovits. The Rocks didn't threaten after the 6th. The game was a completed version of the one that began July 8.

Blue Rocks 6, Salem 5 (7/G2)

3B Liberto 2-3, 2B (2), 2 RBI (4), RS -- .250
LF Testa 2-3, BB, RS -- .281
1B Lewis 1-3, HR (6), 2 RBI (21), K, RS -- .212
CF Prades 1-3, RS -- .302
RF Nick Van Stratten had a big assist at home.

Marks 4 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, 4 BB, 4 K, WP -- 4.37 ERA
Dennick 1 1/3 IP, ER, H, 3 BB, K, WP -- W, 3-6, 4.17 ERA
Keck IP, ER, 2 H -- SV, 3, 6.38 ERA

* The Rocks barely held on to defeat the Salem in Friday's nightcap. Justin Marks gave up 2 runs in the 1st but two run-scoring errors and a 2-run Mike Liberto double flipped the lead to 4-2 Rocks in the 2nd. Joey Lewis continued his hot hitting with a 2-run homer in the 3rd for his 6th of the season. Salem left the bases full in the 3rd and a Ryan Dennick wild pitch scored a Sox run in the 5th. Dennick loaded the bases with 0 out in the 6th and walked in a run before getting out of the inning on a DP. Jon Keck looked shaky in the 7th as he allowed an RBI single and the tying run made it to third. He got a foul flyout to Nick Van Stratten in right for out #2 and Van Stratten came up gunning to nail the would-be tying run at the plate to end the game. Wilmington is 25-35. Game 3 is Saturday. Elisaul Pimentel will start.

A - Kane County: Wisconsin 19, Cougars 7

SS Espinal 3-4, K, 2 RS, E (14) -- .186
2B Franco 2-5, 2B (13), HR (4), 2 RBI (22), 2 RS -- .256
LF Fletcher 2-4, RBI (57), 2 K -- .344
1B Kuebler 1-4, RBI (25) -- .216
RF Llanos 0-4, RBI (30), K, RS -- .242
CF Eibner 0-3, BB, K, RS -- .213
3B Cuthbert 0-3, HBP, K -- .277

Garrido 2 IP, 7 R (5 ER), 4 H, 5 BB, 2 K -- 6.79 ERA
Rivers 2 IP, 5 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, K -- L, 0-1, 4.58 ERA
C. White 1 1/3 IP, 4 ER, 3 H, 3 BB, 2 K, HRA -- 6.46 ERA
Boruff 1 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 2 K, WP -- 2.15 ERA
Rogers 1/3 IP, K -- 2.13 ERA
Graterol IP, ER, 2 H, BB, 2 K, HRA -- 9.00 ERA

* It looked to be a slugfest Friday with the Timber Rattlers, but then the T-Rats started to do all the slugging. Santiago Garrido had a less-than-smooth outing as Wisconsin scored 6 runs in the 1st. They added a run in the 2nd. Kane County surged back, however, with 5 runs in the 3rd on an Angel Franco double aided by a Rattler error, Brian Fletcher RBI single, an Alex Llanos forceout that scored 2 runs thanks to another Wisconsin error, and a Jake Kuebler RBI single. Franco slapped a 2-run homer (his 4th) in the 4th to tie it at 7. The Rattlers ended any thoughts of a Cougar momentum grab as they scored 5 in the 4th, then added 1 in the 5th and 5 in the 6th with a run in the 8th to boot. The last 12 Cougars went down in order as RP Maverick Lasker retired all 9 he faced. KC is 33-27. A 4-game home set with the Peoria Chiefs (22-38, A Cubs) starts Saturday with Greg Billo starting.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Great Falls 5, Chukars 4 (Thu.)

CF Sandford 3-5, RS, 2 SB (26), CS (6) -- .259
2B Piterson 2-4, S, RBI (12) -- .267
1B Espy 2-4, BB, K, RS -- .299
DH Moreno 1-5, 2B (16), RBI (32), 2 K -- .266
LF Fradejas 1-4, 2B (4), RBI (9), RS -- .294
RF Davis 1-4, K -- .331
SS DelGuidice 1-4, K, RS, SB -- .436

Brooks 7 IP, 4 ER, 9 H, BB, 4 K, 2 HRA, WP -- 3.52 ERA
Fassold 1 2/3 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, 2 K -- L, 1-2, 4.66 ERA

* The Chukars' 4-1 lead slipped away late on Thursday. Henry Moreno got it started with an RBI double in the 1st but the Voyagers matched it off Aaron Brooks. The Chukars struck back with 3 runs in the 2nd on a Justin Fradejas RBI double, run-scoring wild pitch and Luis Piterson RBI single. Brooks never cruised but did hold the Voyagers in check until he gave up 2 homers for 3 runs in the 7th to tie it. The Chukars could never add to their 4 runs, and Cody Fassold gave up a 2-out walkoff double in the 9th. IF is 10-15. Game 2 is tonight.

Rookie - Burlington: B-Royals 3, Greeneville 2

SS Antonio 1-4, HR (10), RBI (37), RS, E (25) -- .267
LF Howard 1-3, 3B, RBI (7), RS -- .163
2B Trapp 0-3, BB, picked off, E (21) -- .269

Graffeo 5 IP, 2 UER, 5 H, BB, 3 K, E (2) -- W, 4-2, 2.04 ERA
A. Gonzalez 4 IP, 2 H, K -- SV, 1, 4.97 ERA

* The Royals made the most of their 3 hits on Friday. Greeneville scored a run in the 3rd but Mike Antonio hit his 10th homer of the season to tie it in the 4th. The Astros regained the lead in the 5th but Burlington again had an answer as Anthony Howard hit an RBI triple and scored on an error to give the Royals the lead. Abel Gonzalez took it from there as he worked around a double in the 8th then got out of a 2-on, 1-out jam in the 9th thanks to a 6-4-3 DP. The Royals are 23-41. The 2011 home schedule wraps up with Saturday's series finale. OF Lane Adams left Friday's game with a head injury in the 3rd.

Rookie - AZL: off day

Royals on the Farm 8/25

2011-08-25T20:02:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: New Orleans 8, Storm Chasers 2

1B Robinson 4-4, HR (22), 2 RBI (92), RS -- .327, what a season for Clint, hope he gets a September call
SS Y. Navarro 2-4, 2B (2), 2 K -- .230
LF Lough 1-4, K, assist at home -- .313
RF Cain 1-4, K, RS, E (6) -- .304
DH Ka'aihue 1-4 -- .273

Montgomery 4 IP, 4 ER, 8 H, BB, 3 K -- L, 5-9, 5.44 ERA
Tejeda 2 IP, 2 ER, 2 BB, K -- 3.79 ERA
Chavez IP, 2 R (1 ER), 2 H, 2 K -- 3.34 ERA
Herrera IP, 2 H, K -- 0.77 ERA

* A pair of 4-run rallies doomed Mike Montgomery and the Chasers on Thursday. Omaha stranded 2 in the 2nd but Clint Robinson singled in a run in the 4th to give Omaha the lead. Montgomery got nicked for 4 runs in the 4th and Robinson led off the 6th with his 22nd homer. Jesse Chavez gave up 4 runs in the 7th and Omaha couldn't make any headway late. The Chasers are 74-58. Game 3 is Friday. Luis Mendoza will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Springfield 1, Naturals 0

LF Seratelli 2-4, K -- .288
SS Colon 1-3, BB, 2 K, picked off -- .257

W. Smith 8 IP, ER, 7 H, 2 BB, 5 K, HRA -- L, 12-9, 4.02 ERA, tough loss

* With little margin for error on a down offensive night, Will Smith's 1 earned run was enough to get him his 9th loss. It all came down to 1 pitch as Smith teed up a solo homer to LF Jose Garcia in the 5th. NWA had baserunners in 8 of the 9 innings but couldn't break the ice. Cards SP Michael Blazek K'd 10 over 7 IP to improve to 11-6. NWA is 33-26. The series ends Friday. Jeremy Jeffress will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 11, Potomac 5

LF Testa 3-5, BB, RBI (35), RS -- .277
RF Van Stratten 2-5, BB, 2B (12), 3 RBI (25), K, RS, assist at home -- .295
CF Prades 2-4, S, RBI (22), K, RS -- .299
C J. Rodriguez 2-5, 2B (5), RBI (8), RS -- .255
SS Batista 2-5, 3B, K, 2 RS -- .213
1B Lewis 1-3, BB, 2B (12), 2 RBI (19), 2 RS -- .211
2B Merrifield 1-5, BB, 2B (27), RBI (33), RS -- .257
DH Ferguson 1-5, 2B (11), RBI (40), 2 K, RS -- .220
The Rocks stranded 10.

Melville 5 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, 3 BB, 4 K -- W, 10-9, 4.37 ERA, nice to see him get to double digit Ws
Volz 3 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, 2 K -- 3.03 ERA
Cuevas IP, 3 BB, 2 K -- 13.50 ERA

* The Rocks put it away in the 8th. Nick Van Stratten gunned down a runner at the plate to end the Nationals 2nd and Whit Merrifield got Wilmington on the board with an RBI double in the 3rd. Tim Melville walked in 2 runs in the 3rd but the Rocks got a Tim Ferguson RBI double and run-scoring error to regain the lead in the 4th. Melville allowed the tying run in the 4th. Julio Rodriguez doubled in a run in the 6th and Nick Van Stratten hit an RBI double in the 7th to make it 5-3 Rocks. The Rocks busted out in the 8th as Carlo Testa worked a bases-loaded walk, Van Stratten hit a 2-run single, Joey Lewis hit a 2-run double and Yem Prades singled in a run to make it 11-3. Potomac scored 2 in the 8th off Kendal Volz but the Rocks finished it from there. Wilmington is 24-34. A 3-day, 4-game set at the Salem Red Sox (26-34) starts with the teams' third straight doubleheader Friday after two last weekend. Mike Mariot and Justin Marks are set to start.

A - Kane County: Wisconsin 5, Cougars 2

LF Fletcher 2-5, RBI (56), 2 K -- .342
RF Beltre 2-5, RBI (36), K, SB (16) -- .255
1B Graterol 2-3, BB, 2B (3), K -- .183
CF Eibner 1-3, BB, HBP, 2 K -- .216
3B Cuthbert 0-5, 2 K, 2 E (11) -- .280
KC stranded 12.

L. Perez 5 IP, 3 R (1 ER), 3 H, 2 BB, 7 K, pickoff -- L, 7-12, 3.18 ERA, win streak snapped
Giovenco IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 2 BB, K -- 7.71 ERA
Graham 2 IP, 2 K -- 5.68 ERA

* Wisconsin took command in the middle innings to drop the Cougars. KC stranded 2 twice early on. Leondy Perez allowed a run in the 4th but Geulin Beltre singled in a run to tie it in the 5th. Perez allowed 2 runs in the 5th and Mike Giovenco allowed 2 runs in the 6th as the T-Rats surged ahead. KC stranded 2 in the 6th and 7th and got a Brian Fletcher RBI single in the 9th but could get no closer. Kane County is 33-26. Santiago Garrido is set to pitch Friday's series finale.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Billings 13, Chukars 9 (Wed.)

1B Espy 2-5, 2B (13), RBI (32), RS -- .294
2B Mateo 2-5, 2B (8), RBI (34), RS -- .333
3B Threlkeld 2-3, 2 BB, HR (3), RBI (30), 2 RS -- .273
SS DelGuidice 2-5, 2B (5), RBI (8) -- .457
RF Elder 1-4, BB, HR (6), 2 RBI (23), 2 RS -- .292
C Escobar 1-4, BB, RBI (16), 2 K, RS, 2 PB (11) -- .291
LF Chism 0-3, 2 BB, RBI (32), K, RS, picked off -- .263
CF Sandford 1-3, BB, RBI (17), 2 K -- .248

E. Diaz 3 IP, 9 ER, 7 H, 5 BB, K, 2 HRA, 3 WP -- L, 0-1, 15.43 ERA
Avinazar 4 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, BB, 7 K, 2 WP -- 9.64 ERA
Dooley IP, ER, H, 3 K, HRA -- 7.76 ERA

* High hopes for the Chukars in the 1st turned into a 4-run loss on Wednesday. Idaho Falls rallied with 2 outs in the 1st as Dan Mateo singled in a run, Edul Escobar took a bases-loaded walk, Nick DelGuidice and Darian Sandford singled in runs and Tyler Chism took a bases-loaded walk to make it 5-0. Eric Diaz allowed a solo homer in the Billings 1st, then a 2-run homer in the 2nd. Mark Threlkeld went deep for his 3rd homer of the season in the 3rd but Diaz's game continued to fall apart. The Mustangs scored 6 in the 3rd to emerge with a 9-6 lead. Willian Avinazar allowed 2 runs in the 4th but Chris Elder popped a 2-run homer in the 6th for his 6th of the season to cut it to 11-8. Avinazar allowed a run in the 7th and Richard Espy hit an RBI groundout in the 8th. Jon Dooley gave up a solo homer in the 8th and that was it. IF is 10-14. A 4-game set at the Great Falls Voyagers (15-9, Rookie ChiSox) starts tonight.

Rookie - Burlington: B-Royals 7, Greeneville 2

CF Adams 2-4, SF, RBI (20), 2 K, RS, SB (8) -- .293
2B J. Rodriguez 1-2, SF, 2B (4), 2 RBI (13), RS -- .264
1B Watts 1-3, BB, 2B (10), 2 RBI (43) -- .231
C Shin 1-3, BB, HR (3), RBI (15), K, 2 RS -- .221
LF Howard 1-4, RBI (6), K, RS -- .156
2B-SS Trapp 0-4, BB, 4 K, RS -- .272
SS Antonio 0-1 -- .268, left game in 3rd

Ridings 6 IP, 2 H, 6 K -- W, 3-4, 3.75 ERA
A. Ferguson 3 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, 2 K, WP -- SV, 1, 5.61 ERA

* Burlington saw Matt Ridings back high in the saddle as they took down the 'Stros. Ridings was perfect thru 5 and the Royals got 2 in the 4th on a Murray Watts 2-run double. Jose Rodriguez added a sac fly in the 5th to make it 3-0. Ridings allowed 2 hits in the 6th and that would be his last inning of work. Jin-Ho Shin hit his 3rd homer of the season to lead off the 6th and Andrew Ferguson allowed a run in the 7th before stranding the bases full. Rodriguez doubled in a run in the 7th and the Astros scored a run in the 8th. The Royals finished it with 2 in the 8th on an Anthony Howard RBI single and Lane Adams sac fly. Burlington is 22-41. Game 2 is Friday.

Rookie - AZL: Rangers 7, Royals 2

3B Cuckovich 2-3, BB, RBI (16), K, SB (23) -- .310
CF Allen 0-2, 2 BB, RBI (12), K, SB (5) -- .234
LF Toney 1-4, BB, 2 K, CS (11) -- .324
2B Morales 0-4, K -- .328
DH Gallagher 0-4 -- .121

Hodgson 2 IP, UER, 3 H, K -- 0.00 ERA
S. Rosario 4 IP, 6 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, K, 2 HRA, WP -- L, 1-3, 7.71 ERA
A. Williams 2 IP, 3 H, K -- 3.89 ERA

* The Rangers knocked Sergio Rosario around to show why they've been among the best of the AZL this season. The Rangers scored a run in the 1st but Jerrell Allen hit an RBI forceout in the 2nd to tie it. Rosario allowed a run on 2 hits in the 3rd, then gave up a 3-run homer in the 4th. Nick Cuckovich hit an RBI single in the 5th but Rosario gave up a 2-run homer in the bottom of the inning. The Royals stranded 2 in the 9th. They are 20-33. They have Friday off.

Royals on the Farm 8/24

2011-08-24T20:41:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 4, New Orleans 1 (7)

LF Lough 2-3, HR (9), RBI (60), RS -- .314
2B Falu 2-3, 2B (8), 3 RBI (41), picked off -- .293
RF Cain 1-3, RS -- .304
1B Robinson 1-3, RS -- .321

Mazzaro 6 IP, ER, 4 H, 4 BB, 2 K, WP -- W, 6-2, 4.36 ERA
Miner 2/3 IP, BB -- SV, 1, 1.59 ERA

* Rain ended the proceedings a little early in New Orleans Wednesday as the Chasers took another step toward a division title. Irving Falu hit a 2-out, bases-loaded 3-run double in the 1st to get Omaha out to a nice start. Vin Mazzaro stranded 2 in both the 1st and 4th. David Lough went solo in the 6th for his 9th of the season to make it 4-0 Chasers. Mazzaro finally allowed a Zephyr run in the 6th and Zach Miner had walked 1 with 2 out in the 7th when the rains came. Omaha is 74-57. Game 2 is Thursday. Mike Montgomery will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 4, Springfield 3 (11)

CF Robinson 4-6, RBI (21), RS, 4 SB (52), picked off -- .258
3B Lisson 2-3, 2 BB, HR (13), RBI (43), RS, 2 SB (15) -- .273
RF Myers 2-5 -- .259
SS Bianchi 0-3, 2 BB, K, RS, SB (19) -- .259
LF Paulo Orlando had an assist at second.

M. Santiago 6 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 7 H, 2 K -- 2.30 ERA
Chapman 1 1/3 IP, 2 BB, K -- 5.18 ERA
E. Garcia 2 IP, H -- W, 1-2, 2.63 ERA
Dobies IP, BB, 2 K -- SV, 1, 5.27 ERA

* The Naturals lost a narrow lead late, battled back to force extras then won it in 11. Mario Lisson led off the 3rd with his 13th homer, and Mario Santiago took a 3-hit shutout into the 7th. The Cardinals got to him for 3 runs that inning, however, to chase him. A double play scored a Naturals run in the 8th. Derrick Robinson hit a 2-out single in the 9th, stole second and scored on a throwing error as NWA stayed alive. Robinson then singled in the go-ahead run in the 11th. Andrew Dobies worked around a leadoff walk in the 11th for the save. NWA is 33-25. Game 3 is Thursday. Will Smith will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Potomac 11, Blue Rocks 3

CF Prades 3-4, 2B (16), 3B (5), RS -- .296
LF Ferguson 1-3, BB, 2 RBI (39), K, assist at home -- .220
DH Lewis 1-4, HR (5), RBI (17), 2 K, RS -- .209

Caldwell 5 IP, 3 ER, 8 H, 5 K, HRA -- 2.20 ERA
Keck 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, K, WP -- L, 0-2, 6.23 ERA
Dennick 2 1/3 IP, 4 R (3 ER), 3 H, BB, K -- 4.10 ERA

* Potomac exploded for 8 runs combined in the 6th and 7th to rout the Rocks again. Tim Ferguson hit a 2-out, bases-loaded single in the 1st to score 2 but John Whittleman was thrown out at third on the play to end the inning. Allen Caldwell gave up a solo homer in the 2nd but Joey Lewis blasted his 5th homer in the 4th to make it 3-1. The Nationals tied it in the 4th but Ferguson teamed up with Mike Liberto to gun down a runner at the plate to end the rally. Jon Keck gave up 4 runs in the 6th and Ryan Dennick did the same in the 7th. The Rocks didn't threaten much after Lewis' homer. Wilmington is 23-34. The series ends Thursday. Tim Melville will start.

A - Kane County: Cougars 4, Wisconsin 1

C David 1-3, HBP, 2 RBI (9) -- .244
3B Cuthbert 1-3, HBP, K, RS -- .286
CF Eibner 1-4, 2 K, RS -- .215

Adam 5 IP, ER, 4 H, 2 K -- W, 6-8, 4.34 ERA
J. Mitchell 3 IP, 3 H, BB, 4 K -- 1.40 ERA
Rogers IP, K -- SV, 7, 2.16 ERA

* KC outlasted the T-Rats for the series opening win on Wednesday. A Cheslor Cuthbert single scored 2 runs in the 1st thanks to a Wisconsin error as the Cougars grabbed the early lead. Jason Adam gave a run back on 2 hits in the 1st but would only allow 2 more hits the rest of his 5 IP. Kevin David gave the Cougs a little breathing room in the 8th with a 2-run single, although he was thrown out at second on the play to end the inning. Jason Mitchell worked out of a couple jams but Nick Rogers slammed the door in the 9th for his 7th save. KC is 33-25. Leondy Perez starts game 2 Thursday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Billings 5, Chukars 3 (Tue.)

C Escobar 2-4, RBI (15), RS -- .292
1B Espy 2-5 -- .292
LF Fradejas 1-4, 2B (3), RBI (8) -- .297
RF Davis 1-2, 2 BB, RS, CS (4) -- .333
PR-SS DelGuidice 1-1 -- .467
IF stranded 10.

Moen 5 IP, 5 ER, 8 H, BB, 5 K, 2 HRA -- L, 2-5, 6.70 ERA
Penny 3 IP, 2 H, 2 BB, 5 K -- 9.38 ERA

* A big Mustang 3rd was enough for the win. Justin Fradejas doubled in a run in the 2nd but the Mustangs tied it off Kellen Moen in the bottom of the inning. Back-to-back homers and a 2-run triple helped Billings take a 5-1 lead in the 3rd. Edul Escobar singled in a run in the 6th and an error scored another run that inning to cut it to 5-3. The Chukars' best chance came in the 8th but they stranded the bases full. IF dropped to 10-13. The series ends tonight.

Rookie - Burlington: Johnson City 13, B-Royals 0 (2-hitter)

DH S. Brooks 2-3, 3B -- .269
SS Antonio 0-4 -- .269
1B Watts 0-3, HBP, K -- .230

A. Baez 3 2/3 IP, 5 R (4 ER), 5 H, 3 BB, 5 K, WP, balk -- L, 0-6, 7.38 ERA
Culver 1 1/3 IP, 6 ER, 6 H, K, HRA, 2 WP -- 8.65 ERA
Pizziconi 3 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, K, HRA -- 6.50 ERA
Middendorf IP, K -- 13.50 ERA

* It was a Johnson City onslaught Wednesday. Steven Brooks was the only Royal who apparently brought his bat in the game as his 2 hits were all Burlington got. Johnson City scored 1 in the 2nd, 7 in the 4th, 3 in the 6th, and 2 in the 8th as they liked the even innings. There was no no-hit drama as Brooks singled in the 3rd and tripled in the 5th as the Royals stranded 2 that inning. The B-Royals are 21-41. A 3-game home set with the Greeneville Astros (25-37) starts Thursday.

Rookie - AZL: Royals 7, Mariners 3

SS Arteaga 2-5, 2B (9), K, 2 RS, 2 SB (8) -- .248
RF Blanco 1-4, BB, 2B (9), 2 RBI (23), K, RS -- .267
C Lane 1-3, BB, 2 RBI (21), RS -- .252
1B Cuckovich 1-2, 2 BB, SF, RBI (15), K, RS, 2 CS (6) -- .301
3B Morales 1-3, BB, HBP, 2 K, RS -- .339
DH Gallagher 0-3, BB, K -- .129

Schulz 5 2/3 IP, 2 H, BB, 5 K -- W, 1-0, 0.00 ERA
Edelbrock 2 1/3 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, 3 K, HRA -- 9.88 ERA
Witt IP, nothing -- 9.11 ERA

* The Royals rode a good Clayton Schulz start to the win on Wednesday. Jerico Blanco hit a 2-run double in the 1st to give the Royals the early edge. Schulz handed a 2-hit shutout to the pen in the 6th and Travis Lane singled in 2 runs that inning. Nick Cuckovich added a sac fly in the 7th and an error and wild pitch scored 2 Royal runs in the 8th. Casey Edelbrock lost the shutout on a 2-run homer in the 8th and allowed another run before the inning was through. Christian Witt pitched a perfect 9th. The Royals are 20-32. The Rangers have coasted to the division title as they have a 10-game lead on first. Four games are left.

Royals on the Farm 8/23

2011-08-23T20:39:00.006-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 5, Nashville 2

CF Dyson 3-3, S, 3B (2), 2 RS, assist at home -- .287
DH Robinson 2-4, 2B (33) -- .321
RF Cain 1-2, 2 BB, HR (16), 3 RBI (73), RS, SB (14) -- .304
LF Lough 1-1, 2 S, SF, RBI (59) -- .311
3B Arias 1-4, 2B (8), RBI (18), E (11) -- .213

O'Sullivan 7 IP, 6 H, 8 K -- W, 8-2, 3.12 ERA
Pucetas 2 IP, 2 ER, H, BB -- 5.52 ERA

* Sean O'Sullivan continued his strong AAA performance as the Chasers got their magic number to single digits. Jarrod Dyson led off the Omaha 1st with a triple and scored on a David Lough sac fly. Dyson then threw a runner out at the plate to end the Nashville 2nd. Lorenzo Cain drilled a 3-run homer in the 5th for his 16th of the season and Sullivan handed the shutout to Kevin Pucetas in the 8th. Joaquin Arias hit an RBI double in the 8th and Pucetas let the shutout slip away in the 9th as the Sounds scored 2 runs before he closed it. Omaha is 73-57. A 5-game set at the New Orleans Zephyrs (64-67, AAA Marlins) starts Wednesday.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 7, Midland 6 (Mon.)

SS Bianchi 2-4, 2B (22), RBI (45), RS -- .260
3B Lisson 2-4, 2B (16), SB (13), picked off -- .268
RF Myers 1-2, 2 BB, 2B (21), RBI (42), 2 RS -- .260
C Theriot 1-1, BB, RBI (18) -- .274
1B Seratelli 0-3, HBP, RBI (60), 2 K, RS -- .290
2B Colon 1-5, K, RS -- .256

Dwyer 4 IP, 5 ER, 4 H, 4 BB, 3 K, HRA, WP -- 5.84 ERA
Baumann 2 IP, ER, 3 H, BB, 2 K -- W, 4-2, 3.99 ERA
Hardy 3 IP, H, 2 K -- SV, 7, 1.11 ERA

* The Naturals put together a flurry of runs early and held on for the win Monday. Chris Dwyer gave up a 2-run homer in the 2nd but the Nats tied it in the bottom of the inning on a double-play ball that scored a run and a Ben Theriot RBI single. Jeff Bianchi doubled in the go-ahead run in the 3rd followed by an Anthony Seratelli RBI groundout, and 2 run-scoring Midland errors. Wil Myers doubled in another run in the 4th to make it 7-2 Naturals. Dwyer was pulled for Buddy Baumann with the bases-loaded and 0 out in the 5th, and Baumann allowed 4 runs to score before getting out of the inning. Blaine Hardy retired 9 of 10 batters faced to finish his 7th save.

Naturals 5, Springfield 4

LF Orlando 3-4, 3B (8), RBI (19), CS -- .333
2B Bianchi 1-3, 2 BB, 2 RBI (47), K -- .261
SS Colon 1-3, S, HBP, RBI (57), RS -- .256
CF Robinson 1-4, BB, K, 2 RS, SB (48) -- .252
RF Myers 0-4, 2 K, assist at second -- .257

Odorizzi 6 IP, 4 ER, 8 H, 5 K, 2 HRA -- 4.79 ERA
Lafferty 2 IP, 2 H, 2 BB, K -- W, 2-0, 2.25 ERA
E. Garcia IP, nothing -- SV, 5, 2.84 ERA

* The Naturals rallied in the 9th to take the opener from Springfield. A Christian Colon RBI single and run-scoring balk made it 2-0 NWA in the 1st. Jake Odorizzi gave up a solo homer in the 2nd and then 3 straight 2-out singles in the 4th to tie the game. Paulo Orlando made it 3-2 NWA with an RBI single in the 6th, but Odorizzi gave up a 2-run bomb in the bottom of the inning to make it 4-3 Springfield. Jorge Rondon was handed that lead in the 9th but the Naturals loaded the bases with 1 out and Jeff Bianchi hit a clutch 2-run single to flip the game around. Edgar Garcia pitched a perfect 9th for his 5th save. NW Arkansas is 32-25 and 5 games up on first. Game 2 of the 4-game set is Wednesday. Mario Santiago will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Potomac 11, Blue Rocks 1

3B Whittleman 1-3, BB, RBI (67), E (25) -- .241
2B Merrifield 1-4, K, RS -- .260
DH Testa 1-4, 2 K -- .272

Sample 3 IP, 9 R (5 ER), 8 H, 3 BB, K, E (8) -- L, 7-12, 5.66 ERA
Odenbach 4 IP, 3 H, 3 BB, 4 K -- 2.83 ERA
Cuevas IP, 2 ER, 2 H, 2 BB, K -- 27.00 ERA, hey, better than infinite....

* Wilmington had 4 errors and only 1 run in Tuesday's loss. John Whittleman singled in a run in the 1st but that was the Rocks' peak on Tuesday. Potomac scored 2 in the 1st and 4 in the 2nd off Tyler Sample. Sample had a fairly quiet 3rd, then gave up 3 in the 4th along with Dusty Odenbach to make it 9-1. The last 10 Rocks went down in order. Wilmington is 23-33. Game 2 is Wednesday as Allen Caldwell starts.

A - Kane County: Clinton 4, Cougars 2

LF Fletcher 2-4, 2 2B (30), RBI (55), 2 K -- .341
RF Beltre 2-3, BB, 2 2B (16), RBI (35), RS, CS (10) -- .255
3B Cuthbert 0-3, BB, K -- .285
CF Eibner 0-3, BB, 2 K -- .214

Ventura 5 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 4 K, WP -- L, 3-5, 4.48 ERA
Rivers 2 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 2 K -- 2.30 ERA
Boruff IP, nothing -- 1.91 ERA

* Yordano Ventura didn't have a bad start but didn't get the run support he needed either to get the win. Brian Fletcher hit an RBI double in the 1st but Clinton tied it off Ventura in the 3rd. Ventura allowed another run in the 5th and Alex Rivers allowed 2 runs in the 6th. Geulin Beltre doubled in a run in the 7th and that was KC's last shot. The Cougars are 32-25. A 3-gamer at the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (23-33, A Brewers) starts Wednesday with Jason Adam starting.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 5, Billings 3 (Mon.)

SS DelGuidice 3-4, 2 2B (4), 2 RBI (7), RS -- .448
3B Mateo 3-5, 2 K, RS, picked off -- .332
LF Fradejas 3-4 -- .300
C Escobar 2-4, S -- .286
DH Moreno 1-2, 3 BB, 2B (15), RBI (31), RS -- .278
CF Chism 0-4, SF, RBI (31), 3 K -- .267
1B Espy 1-5, RBI (31), 3 K -- .289
RF Davis 0-3, BB, HBP, 3 K, 2 RS -- .331
IF stranded 11.

B. Martin 6 IP, 2 ER, 8 H, 6 K, WP -- 4.67 ERA
Dooley IP, UER, 2 H, K -- BS, 1, W, 3-3, 7.74 ERA
Carl 2 IP, H, 5 K -- SV, 5, 1.16 ERA, gotta keep the tally running....3 BB/68 K in 31 IP

* Idaho Falls notched a pair of 2-run innings late to get the win. Brennon Martin gave up a run in the 1st but Henry Moreno hit an RBI double in the 2nd to tie it. The game stayed tied at 1 into the 6th, when the Mustangs took the lead. Nick DelGuidice doubled in a run and Richard Espy hit an RBI single in the 7th to make it 3-2 IF. Jonathan Dooley allowed a run in the 7th to blow his 1st save, but the Chukars responded with 2 in the 8th on a DelGuidice RBI single and Tyler Chism sac fly to make it 5-3. Then it was Edwin Carl time and he didn't disappoint as he struck out the side in the 8th and struck out 2 with 1 on in the 9th for his 5th save. IF is 10-12. Game 2 is tonight.

Rookie - Burlington: Johnson City 6, B-Royals 4

3B Bringas 2-4, 2B (10), HR (5), 2 RBI (14), 2 RS -- .247
CF Adams 2-4, 2B (9), RBI (19), K -- .295
LF Conner 1-3, BB, 2B (6), RBI (9), RS, SB (12) -- .265
2B Trapp 0-4, 2 K -- .277
SS Antonio 0-3, BB, K, E (24) -- .275

R. Brown 4 1/3 IP, ER, 5 H, BB, 8 K -- 3.55 ERA
A. Gonzalez 3 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 2 H, BB, 4 K -- 6.33 ERA
Hall 1 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 3 H, K, HRA -- BS, 3, L, 2-2, 6.47 ERA

* The Royals faltered late as the Cardinals scored 5 in the last 2 innings. Johnson City scored a run in the 1st off Rudy Brown but the Royals scored 3 in the 2nd on an Adrian Bringas 2-run homer (his 5th) and Lane Adams doubled in a run to make it 3-1. Abel Gonzalez left the bases loaded in the 5th but Cameron Conner doubled in a run in the 6th to stretch the lead to 4-1. Cory Hall fell victim to a 2-run error in the 8th and then gave up a 2-run homer to flip the lead to 5-4 JC. Hall allowed another run in the 9th and the Royals couldn't rally. Burlington is 21-40. The series wraps Wednesday. Angel Baez will start. SP Matt Murray is getting a "precautionary MRI" on his arm according to the Burlington blog.

Rookie - AZL: Royals 6, Mariners 5

2B Morales 2-4, 3 RBI (26), K -- .339
3B Cuckovich 2-3, HBP, 2 RBI (14), K, RS, SB (22) -- .298
LF Toney 2-4, 2 2B (12), 2 K -- .328
CF Gore 0-2, BB, K, RS, assist at home -- .362

Ogando 2 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, BB, K -- 11.06 ERA, has had rough intro to pro game
Edelen 3 IP, ER, H, 2 BB, 2 K, WP -- 7.36 ERA
F. Cruz 2 2/3 IP, H, 3 K -- W, 2-3, 9.15 ERA
Stueve 1 1/3 IP, K -- SV, 6, 2.14 ERA

* The Royals recovered from a 3-run Mariner 1st to get the win Tuesday. Four hits and a walk scored 3 Mariner runs in the 1st off Cesar Ogando, but the Royals got a run back on an Adrian Morales RBI single in the bottom of the frame. The Mariners answered with a run in the 2nd. The Royals took their turn and got a run-scoring wild pitch to cut it to 4-2 in the 2nd. The M's got a sac fly in the 5th but Morales hit an RBI groundout in the 6th to trim it back to 5-3. The Royals loaded the bases with 2 out in the 7th and Nick Cuckovich tied it with a 2-run single before Morales hit the go-ahead RBI single to make it 6-5. The Royals retired the final 10 M's. The Royals are 19-32.

Royals on the Farm 8/22

2011-08-22T20:34:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Nashville 7, Storm Chasers 3 (11)

SS Y. Navarro 2-4, clutch RBI (4), 2 K, 2 E (5) -- .222
LF Lough 2-5, 2B (26), RS -- .310
2B Falu 1-3, BB, RBI (38) -- .290
DH Ka'aihue 1-2, 2 BB, RBI (60), K -- .280
RF Cain 1-5, RS, E (5) -- .303
1B Robinson 0-3, BB, 2 K, 2 E (8) -- .320

Suppan 6 1/3 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 6 H, K -- 4.40 ERA
Lebron 1 2/3 IP, UER, 3 H, K -- 1.04 ERA
Sisk 2 2/3 IP, 4 R (1 ER), 4 H, BB, 2 K, HRA, E -- L, 4-2, 1.61 ERA
Tejeda 1/3 IP, K -- 3.52 ERA

* Omaha rallied in the 9th to force extras but fell in 11. An Omaha error scored a run in the 4th and Willy Lebron gave up a sac fly in the 7th to make it 2-0 Sounds. Irving Falu singled in Omaha's first run in the 7th as Lorenzo Cain had broken up Wily Peralta's no-hitter earlier in the inning with an infield single. Lebron gave up a run in the 8th to make it 3-1, but Kila Ka'aihue hit a 2-out RBI single in the 9th and, after Falu walked, Yamaico Navarro tied it with a single. Kurt Mertins went for the win but was gunned down at the plate on the play to end the inning. Brandon Sisk kept it going but faltered in the 11th as the Sounds scored 4 runs. There would be no big rally this time. Omaha is 72-57. The series ends Tuesday. Luis Mendoza was named PCL Pitcher of the Week as he went 2-0 in the week with a 6 IP, 2 ER effort versus Tacoma and 7 IP, 0 ER effort versus Nashville. Sean O'Sullivan starts Tuesday.

AA - NW Arkansas: Rain forced a late start Monday, so I'll pick this one up tomorrow....NWA is up early

A-Adv. - Wilmington: off day

* A 3-game set at the Potomac Nationals (30-26) starts Tuesday.

A - Kane County: Clinton 12, Cougars 1

2B Franco 2-4, K -- .253
C David 2-4, RS -- .241
DH Llanos 1-3, RBI (29), K -- .245

Billo 2 2/3 IP, 8 R (3 ER), 9 H, 2 K -- L, 9-4, 1.74 ERA, not his usual lockdown self
Graham 3 1/3 IP, 4 ER, 5 H, BB, 2 K -- 8.31 ERA
C. White 2 IP, 2 H, 2 K -- 4.50 ERA

* Clinton wasted no time putting the Cougars away Monday. Greg Billo had a rough game as an Orlando Calixte error scored the 'Kings' first run and they would add 5 more before the inning was through. Billo allowed 2 more runs before getting pulled in the 3rd. Clinton went on to add 2 in the 4th and 2 in the 5th. Alex Llanos hit a 2-out RBI single in the 7th but all it did was spoil the shutout. KC is 32-24. The series wraps Tuesday with Yordano Ventura starting.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: report tomorrow

Rookie - Burlington: Johnson City 5, B-Royals 3

LF Conner 2-4, 2B (5), K, 2 RS, 2 SB (11) -- .263
CF Adams 1-3, BB, SF, 2 RBI (18), K, SB (7) -- .290
RF Bonifacio 1-3, BB, RBI (28), 2 K, SB (5), assist at home -- .284
2B Trapp 1-5, 3 K, RS -- .282
SS Antonio 0-3, BB, 2 K -- .279

Cantrell 6 IP, ER, 3 H, 7 K -- 4.44 ERA, his best start I can remember
Middendorf 2 IP, 4 ER, 8 H, BB, K, HRA -- L, 0-1, 15.63 ERA
Ferguson IP, H, pickoff -- 5.58 ERA

* The Cardinals came on late to defeat the Royals. Lane Adams hit a sac fly in the 3rd and that was the only run of the game heading into the 6th. Eric Cantrell took a 1-hit shutout into the 6th but the Cards evened the game that inning. The Royals stranded the bases full in the 6th and David Middendorf served up a 3-run homer in the 7th, and the Cardinals added a run in the 8th to make it 5-1. Jorge Bonifacio singled in a run in the 8th and Adams singled in a run in the 9th to cut it to 5-3. With 2 on and 1 out, tho, Jose Rodriguez was caught stealing third and Justin Trapp struck out to end it. The B-Royals are 21-39. Game 2 is Tuesday. Matt Murray will start.

Rookie - AZL: Padres 7, Royals 6

SS Cuckovich 3-4, BB, K, 2 RS, 2 SB (21), 2 E (10) -- .288
LF Gore 2-3, BB, 2 SB (16) -- .372
1B Gaylord 1-3, BB, 2B (8), 2 RBI (24) -- .206
3B Morales 1-5, RBI (23), K, RS -- .333
RF Blanco 1-5, RBI (21), RS -- .275
C Marquez 1-3, S, RBI (4) -- .176
DH Gallagher 0-4, BB, 2 K -- .136

O. Gomez 2/3 IP, UER, BB -- 0.00 ERA
Witt 1 1/3 IP, 2 R (1 ER), BB, 2 WP -- 9.45 ERA
Hodgson IP, H, BB, K -- 0.00 ERA
M. Morales 2 1/3 IP, 4 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, K, pickoff -- BS, 1, L, 3-4, 7.05 ERA
Edelbrock 1 2/3 IP, H, 2 K, WP -- 9.53 ERA
Durden IP, 2 BB -- 10.38 ERA
N. Blanco IP, H, pickoff -- 4.05 ERA

* The Royals had it going early but the Pads finished strong. Two Nick Cuckovich errors scored Padre runs in the 1st but Adrian Morales got a run back with an RBI groundout in the bottom of the inning. Christian Witt allowed a sac fly in the 2nd but the Royals got that run back on an Alex Marquez RBI single. The Royals surged into the lead in the 3rd with 4 runs on a Jerico Blanco RBI single, run-scoring error, and 2-run Brian Gaylord double. Max Morales came on for his third inning of work in the 6th and ran into trouble. Five straight Padre hits to start the inning scored 3 runs and another run would be plated before Casey Edelbrock finished the inning with a 7-6 Padre lead. The Royals left the bases loaded in the 6th and they wouldn't have another hit thereafter. The Royals are 18-32. Six games remain.

Royals on the Farm 8/21

2011-08-21T13:19:00.003-05:00

Video of the triple play turned on the Storm Chasers Saturday earned a mention on Deadspin. I knew by the fact it started with a flyout it was probably a crazy play.

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 5, Nashville 3

1B Robinson 2-4, 2B (32), HR (21), 4 RBI (90), RS -- .322
CF Cain 1-3, BB, RBI (70), 2 K, 2 RS, E (4) -- .304
RF Lough 0-2, 2 BB, RS -- .309

Mendoza 7 IP, UER, 5 H, BB, K -- W, 10-5, 2.18 ERA
Chavez 1 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, K, 2 HRA -- 3.23 ERA
Herrera 1/3 IP, nada -- SV, 5, 0.84 ERA

* The Chasers rallied late yet again to even the series with the Sounds. Clint Robinson hit an RBI double in the 1st and Luis Mendoza took a 2-hit shutout into the 7th. The Sounds scratched out a run that inning, but the Chasers answered with 4 in the bottom of the frame on a Lorenzo Cain RBI single and 3-run Robinson homer (his 21st) to make it 5-1. Jesse Chavez gave up a homer in the 8th and another solo homer in the 9th to cut it to 5-3 before Kelvin Herrera picked up the final out. Omaha is 72-56. Game 3 is Monday. Jeff Suppan will start. C Manny Pina was put on the DL with a knee problem, as Ryan Jenkins was moved up from the lower rungs to take a roster slot.

AA - NW Arkansas: Midland 8, Naturals 2

DH Romak 2-3, BB, 3B, RBI (65) -- .262
2B Bianchi 2-5, K, RS, SB (18) -- .258
CF Myers 1-4, RBI (41) -- .259
SS Colon 0-4, S -- .256
NWA stranded 10.

Jeffress 4 1/3 IP, ER, 4 H, 3 BB, 6 K, WP -- 4.18 ERA
Dobies 1 2/3 IP, H, BB, K -- 5.68 ERA
Chapman 1/3 IP, 6 R (5 ER), H, 2 BB, K, HRA, WP, E -- L, 1-2, 5.40 ERA
Lafferty 1 1/3 IP, ER, 2 H, 2 K, HRA -- 2.57 ERA
Paulino 1 1/3 IP, nothing -- 5.30 ERA

* A big Midland 7th keyed the RockHounds' win. Jamie Romak hit a 2-out RBI single in the 3rd but Andrew Dobies came in with 1 out and the bases full in the 5th and walked in a run before getting out of the inning. NWA squandered a leadoff triple in the 6th, and Kevin Chapman gave up a grand slam in the 7th before giving way to Brendan Lafferty, who gave up a 3-run homer to the first batter he faced. Wil Myers hit an RBI single in the 8th but that was all the Naturals could muster. NWA is 30-25. The series wraps Monday. Chris Dwyer will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 6, Salem 3 (7/G1)

LF Testa 2-3, RBI (34), K, RS -- .274
3B Whittleman 2-2, BB, RBI (64), RS -- .239
CF Prades 1-2, SF, 2 RBI (21), RS -- .288
2B Merrifield 1-3, BB, RBI (32), K -- .261
C Jul. Rodriguez 0-1, BB, SF, RBI (7) -- .255

Marks 4 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 3 BB, 5 K -- 4.32 ERA
Caldwell 2 IP, K -- W, 1-0, 0.79 ERA
Cuevas 0 IP, ER, 2 H, BB -- infinite ERA, Rocks debut
Volz IP, nothing -- SV, 3, 2.88 ERA

* The Rocks got off to a good start in Sunday's twinbill by winning the opener. Justin Marks gave up a 2-run double in the 1st and Salem had the early advantage. The Rocks rallied back in the 2nd as Yem Prades hit an RBI single, Julio Rodriguez hit a sac fly, and Whit Merrifield and Carlo Testa singled in runs to make it 4-2 Rocks. The Rocks added a Whittleman RBI single and Prades sac fly in the 5th to make it 6-2. Gary Cuevas allowed a run without getting an out in his Rocks debut in the 7th, but Kendal Volz came in to get a double play and the final out.

Blue Rocks 4, Salem 0 (4-hitter, 7/G2)

3B Whittleman 1-3, 2B (23), 2 RBI (66), K -- .240
1B Lewis 1-2, HR (4), RBI (16), RS -- .208
LF Ferguson 0-1, SF, RBI (37) -- .221
RF Testa 0-2, BB, K, RS -- .273

E. Pimentel 6 IP, 4 H, BB, 6 K, WP -- W, 6-7, 3.63 ERA
Dennick IP, K -- 3.72 ERA

* Both teams had 4 hits but the Rocks did much more with theirs to sweep another doubleheader from the Red Sox. Joey Lewis got it going with a solo homer in the 3rd for his 4th of the season and Yem Prades tripled and scored on a Tim Ferguson sac fly in the 5th. The team's other 2 hits also contributed to runs as a Nick Van Stratten single loaded the bases in the 6th and John Whittleman followed with a 2-run double. Salem didn't have a hit after the 4th. The Rocks are 23-32. They have Monday off.

A - Kane County: Clinton 7, Cougars 1

LF Fletcher 0-2, HBP, SF, RBI (54), 2 K -- .340
CF Eibner 0-1, 3 BB, K -- .220
DH Pickett 1-4, RS, SB (5) -- .313

Garrido 3 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, BB, 2 K, HRA -- L, 2-5, 6.20 ERA
A. Cruz 3 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, BB, 5 K, HRA -- 2.85 ERA
Giovenco 2 IP, H, BB, 5 K -- 7.13 ERA

* The Cougar offense sputtered as Clinton won Sunday. Things went wrong from the get-go as Santiago Garrido gave up a leadoff homer in the 1st and another run to make it 2-0 LumberKings. Clinton scored again in the 2nd. Brian Fletcher hit a sac fly in the 3rd to cut it to 3-1 but the 'Kings tacked on a run in the 3rd then added 3 combined runs in the 5th and 6th to put it away. The Cougars didn't have a hit after the 4th. KC is 32-23. Greg Billo starts game 3 Monday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 4, Great Falls 2 (Sat.)

DH Mateo 2-4 -- .311
LF Elder 1-4, RBI (18), RS -- .281
CF Chism 1-3, SF, 2B (9), RBI (29), K, RS -- .264
RF Davis 1-2, 2 BB, K, E (2) -- .338

A. Brooks 6 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 5 H, BB, 5 K -- 3.34 ERA
Patton 2 IP, H, BB, 4 K -- W, 2-1, 4.05 ERA
Fassold IP, nothing -- SV, 3, 4.58 ERA

* A 7th inning rally helped the Chukars get the best of the Voyagers. Chris Elder hit an RBI forceout in the 2nd but Great Falls answered with 2 in the 3rd off Aaron Brooks. Tyler Chism doubled and scored on an error in the 4th to tie it. Both teams wasted scoring chances in the middle innings, but Idaho Falls cashed in in the 7th as two Voyager errors on the same play scored the go-ahead run and Chism added a sac fly to make it 4-2. Great Falls only had 1 hit after the 6th.

Great Falls 14, Chukars 12

DH Mateo 4-5, BB, HR (3), 3 RBI (33), K, RS -- .324
RF Elder 3-6, HR (5), 3 RBI (21), 2 RS, two assists at home -- .294
CF Chism 3-5, BB, 2B (10), RBI (30), K, 3 RS -- .272
2B DelGuidice 3-5, 2B (2), RBI (5), 2 RS -- .400
1B Espy 1-5, SF, 2B (12), 2 RBI (30), K, RS -- .291
3B Threlkeld 1-3, 2 BB, RBI (29) -- .267
IF stranded 10.

Peacock 4 IP, 5 ER, 9 H, 3 BB, 5 K -- 4.30 ERA
Jo. Sanchez 2 IP, 7 R (6 ER), 5 H, 4 BB, K, HRA -- L, 2-3, 9.21 ERA
N. Johnson 3 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 4 K, HRA -- 4.88 ERA

* A 9-run Voyagers surge in the middle innings was enough for them to outlast Idaho Falls on Sunday. Brian Peacock had a rough start as Great Falls tallied 4 runs in the 1st, and it took an assist at the plate from RF Chris Elder to end the rally. Richard Espy doubled in a run and a run-scoring error helped IF cut it to 4-2 by inning's end. Peacock left the bases loaded in the 2nd and the offense continued to pick him up with a 4-run 2nd on a Nick DelGuidice RBI double, run-scoring Voyager error, Espy sac fly and Daniel Mateo RBI single. The Voyagers scored a run in the 3rd but IF matched it on a Tyler Chism RBI single that made it 7-5 Chukars. Jose Sanchez gave up 2 runs to tie it in the 5th, then allowed 5 runs in the 6th to give Great Falls a 12-7 lead. Nathan Johnson gave up a 2-run homer in the 7th to make it 14-7. Mateo clubbed a 2-run homer in the 8th for his 3rd of the season, and Elder hit a 3-run homer in the 9th (his 5th) to cut it to 14-12 but the rally died there. IF is 9-12. A 3-game set at the Billings Mustangs (12-9, Rookie Reds) starts Monday.

Rookie - Burlington: B-Royals 6, Kingsport 2

1B Watts 2-4, 2 HR (14), 3 RBI (41), K, 2 RS -- .243
SS Antonio 2-5, 2B (11), K, E (23) -- .283
2B Trapp 1-3, 2 BB, HR (7), RBI (40), K, 2 RS, 3 SB (27) -- .284
RF Bonifacio 1-3, BB, HR (6), RBI (27), RS -- .284
CF Adams 1-5, HR (5), RBI (16), K, RS -- .289

Graffeo 4 IP, ER, 2 H, 2 BB, 2 K, HRA -- 2.25 ERA
Pizziconi 2 1/3 IP, ER, 3 H, 2 BB, K -- W, 1-1, 6.55 ERA
Hall 2 2/3 IP, K -- SV, 2, 5.93 ERA

* The Royals finally beat the Mets to salvage the series finale. The Royals left 'em loaded in the 1st and Nick Graffeo gave up a solo homer in the bottom of the inning. Murray Watts slammed a 2-run homer in the 3rd (his 13) to flip the lead to 2-1 Royals. Lane Adams hammered his 5th homer of the season to make it 3-1 in the 4th and Watts and Jorge Bonifacio went back-to-back in the 5th for their 14th and 6th homers, respectively, to stretch it to 5-1. The Mets scored a run in the 7th but the Royals matched it on a Justin Trapp solo homer in the 9th (his 7th). Cory Hall retired all 8 Mets he faced to pick up his 2nd save. The Royals are 21-38. A 3-game home set with the Johnson City Cardinals (38-20) starts Monday. Nine games remain on the schedule.

Rookie - AZL: off day

Royals on the Farm 8/20

2011-08-20T20:49:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 3, Tacoma 1 (Fri.)

CF Cain 1-4, clutch 2B (26), 2 RBI (69), 2 K, assist at second -- .305
DH Robinson 1-3, HBP, HR (20), RBI (86), K, RS -- .320

Mazzaro 6 2/3 IP, ER, 9 H, 2 BB, 5 K, WP -- 4.51 ERA
Miner 1 1/3 IP, K -- W, 2-1, 1.65 ERA
Herrera IP, 3 K -- dominant SV, 4, 0.87 ERA, Absolute Zero on top of his game Friday

* Omaha had more late-inning magic for the Rainiers on Friday. Clint Robinson led off the 2nd with his 20th homer of the season to give the Chasers a 1-0 lead. Vin Mazzaro stranded the bases full in the 2nd but allowed the tying run in the 4th. The 1-1 lead held intact into the 9th, when Lorenzo Cain greeted RP Shawn Kelley with a 2-run double to break the game open. Kelvin Herrera then struck out the side in the 9th for his 4th save.

Nashville 4, Storm Chasers 1

2B Zawadzki 1-2, 2 BB, RBI (40), K -- .244
CF Cain 1-5, K -- .304
1B Robinson 1-3, 2 BB, 2B (31), K -- .320
DH Ka'aihue 1-3, BB, K -- .277
Omaha stranded 12.

Montgomery 7 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, BB, 6 K -- L, 5-8, 5.33 ERA
Sisk 1 2/3 IP, 2 BB -- 1.42 ERA
Tejeda 1/3 IP -- 3.55 ERA

* The Storm Chasers returned home from their west coast swing and couldn't survive a rough 1st on Saturday. Mike Montgomery gave up 4 runs in the 1st and the Sounds put the game on SP Josh Butler's shoulders. Lance Zawadzki hit an RBI single in the 2nd to get Omaha on the board. The first 2 Chasers reached in the 3rd but a Clint Robinson flyout turned into a triple play, and the Chasers left the bases loaded in the 4th. Omaha left 'em loaded again in the 8th and left one more on in the 9th. Omaha is 71-56. Game 2 is Sunday. Luis Mendoza will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 6, Midland 3

RF Myers 2-3, BB, 2 2B (20), 2 RBI (40), 2 RS -- .259
SS Colon 2-3, BB, 2 2B (13), RBI (56) -- .259
1B Seratelli 2-4, RBI (59), K, RS -- .293
LF Orlando 1-3, BB, 3B (7), RBI (18) -- .324
3B Navarro 0-3, SF, RBI (16), K -- .286

W. Smith 6 IP, 3 ER, 7 H, BB, 5 K, pickoff -- W, 12-8, 4.18 ERA
Ed. Garcia 3 IP, H, BB, 4 K -- SV, 4, 2.96 ERA

* The Naturals came back from down, 3-1, to win the game. The Nats stranded 2 in the 1st and Will Smith allowed 2 Midland runs in the 2nd. Wil Myers doubled and scored on a Rey Navarro sac fly in the 2nd to cut the lead in half. Midland added a run in the 5th but the Naturals' offense exploded in the inning for 5 runs on a Christian Colon RBI double, Anthony Seratelli RBI single, 2-run Myers double and Paulo Orlando RBI triple. Edgar Garcia worked a relatively quiet 3 innings in relief for his 4th save. The game was halted by a rain delay at one point. NWA is 30-24. Game 2 is Sunday as Jeremy Jeffress starts. OF Tim Smith was activated from the DL as OF Nick Francis has run afoul of the organization and been placed on the suspended list for violating organizational policy. He has gone through a drug suspension previously and, if I remember correctly, had missed some games in at least one prior season for off-the-field behavior toward coaching staff as well.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 3, Salem 2 (7/G1)

SS Liberto 1-2, RBI (2), K, RS, SB, E -- .182
DH Testa 1-3, RBI (32), CS (5) -- .266
2B Merrifield 0-1, 2 BB, RS -- .258
C Dyer 1-1, BB, 2B, RS -- 1.000, Rocks debut
RF Nick Van Stratten had an assist at third.

Mariot 5 IP, UER, 6 H, 4 K -- W, 8-3, 3.34 ERA
Keck IP, ER, 3 H, BB -- 4.32 ERA
Paukovits IP, BB, K -- SV, 6, 3.60 ERA

* The Rocks made the most of their 5 hits on Saturday to take game 1 of 2 with the Red Sox. Mike Liberto hit an RBI single in the 3rd and a Carlo Testa single later in the inning scored 2 thanks in part to a Salem error. Mike Mariot didn't avoid baserunners in any of his 5 innings of work, and a Liberto error helped Salem plate a run in the 5th. Jon Keck allowed another run in the 6th but Nick Van Stratten came up big with an assist at third on the play to end the inning abruptly. Bryan Paukovits got a double play to end it in the 7th.

Blue Rocks 6, Salem 2 (7/G2)

3B Whittleman 2-3, 2B (22), HR (20), 3 RBI (63), 2 RS, E (24) -- .235
LF Testa 2-2, BB, 2B (24), RBI (33), RS -- .271
2B Merrifield 2-3, BB, K, RS -- .261
C Jul. Rodriguez 2-3, 2B (4) -- .261
SS Batista 2-3, K, 2 RS, SB (4) -- .209

Melville 6 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 6 H, BB, 7 K, HRA -- W, 9-9, 4.32 ERA
Odenbach IP, BB, K -- 3.13 ERA

* Wilmington had a strong 1st and went on to sweep Saturday's double dip. John Whittleman hit a 2-run double and scored on an error in the 1st as the Rocks staked Tim Melville to a 3-0 lead. Whittleman led off the 3rd with his 20th homer and Melville finally allowed a run in the 4th, though a wild pitch scored a run for Wilmington that inning to make it 5-1. Melville gave up a solo homer in the 6th but the Rocks matched it again as Carlo Testa singled in a run. Wilmington is 21-32. The teams play two once more on Sunday as Justin Marks and Elisaul Pimentel will start.

A - Kane County: Cougars 7, Clinton 1

DH Beltre 3-5, 2B (14), RBI (34), 2 RS -- .254
LF Fletcher 2-5, 2 2B (28), K, RS -- .342
C David 2-5, 2B (6), 2 K -- .232
1B Kuebler 2-5, 2B (16), K -- .223
CF Eibner 1-4, BB, HR (12), 3 RBI (31), 2 K, RS -- .221
3B Cuthbert 1-3, 2 BB, HR (8), 2 RBI (48), K, 2 RS -- .293
SS Calixte 1-4, BB, RBI (28), 2 K -- .213
The Cougars stranded 10.

L. Perez 5 IP, 3 H, 5 K -- W, 7-11, 3.23 ERA, consistency has turned his fortunes, 5 straight wins
Rivers 2 IP, ER, H, 2 K, HRA -- 1.32 ERA
Rogers 2 IP, BB, 2 K -- 2.25 ERA

* The Cougars supported another strong start from Leondy Perez to take the opener from Clinton. Cheslor Cuthbert popped a 2-run homer (his 8th) in the 1st to start the Cougars on the right foot. Perez worked out of a minor jam in the 2nd and the Cougars added 3 runs in the 5th on a 3-run homer by Brett Eibner (his 12th). Geulin Beltre singled in a run in the 6th to give Perez a 6-0 lead, which he handed to Alex Rivers that inning. Rivers lost the shutout with a leadoff homer in the 7th but Orlando Calixte singled in a run in the 9th and Nick Rogers polished off the last 2 innings. KC is 32-22. Santiago Garrido starts game 2 Sunday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 10, Great Falls 9 (Fri.)

RF Davis 2-4, 3 RBI (35), K -- .336
LF Chism 3-5, 2B (8), 2 RS -- .263
CF Sandford 2-4, RBI (16), RS, SB (23) -- .243
3B Threlkeld 1-4, 2B (13), 3 RBI (28), 2 K, RS -- .267
1B Moreno 2-4, BB, 2B (14), RBI (30), 2 K, 2 RS -- .282
2B Piterson 1-5, RBI (11), K, RS -- .286
SS DelGuidice 1-4, E (2) -- .350

E. Diaz 4 IP, 4 R (3 ER), 6 H, 4 BB, 5 K, HRA, WP -- 6.75 ERA
Avinazar IP, 3 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 2 K, balk -- 10.24 ERA
Penny 2 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, 2 BB, 3 K, HRA -- W, 3-4, 10.16 ERA
Carl 2 IP, 5 K -- SV, 4, 1.24 ERA, that makes it 3 BB/63 K in 29 IP, can we see what he can do higher than the rookie leagues, perhaps? He does turn 23 in 11 days.

* Two big rallies helped the Chukars outlast the Voyagers. Great Falls scored a run in the 1st off Eric Diaz but the Chukars had more than an adequate answer with 4 runs in their half on a Henry Moreno RBI single, 2-run Runey Davis single and Darian Sandford RBI single. The Voyagers tied it in the 3rd off Diaz. Luis Piterson hit an RBI fielder's choice in the 4th but Willian Avinazar gave up 3 runs in the 5th to make it 7-5 Great Falls. The Chukars pieced together a key rally in the 6th as a wild pitch scored a run, the Royals loaded the bases, Mark Threlkeld cleared 'em with a 3-run double, and Davis singled home Threlkeld to swing the lead to 10-7 IF. Robert Penny promptly gave up a 2-run homer to cut the lead to 1, but the Chukars got it to Edwin Carl time in the 8th, and he did not disappoint. He struck out the side in the 8th, then "only" K'd 2 in the 9th to finish off his 4th save. IF is 8-11. The series is continuing tonight.

Rookie - Burlington: Kingsport 17, B-Royals 14

SS Antonio 3-5, BB, 2B (10), 2 HR (9), 5 RBI (36), K, 4 RS, 2 E (22) -- .280
C Swab 2-5, HBP, 2 RBI (14), K, RS, 2 E (5) -- .245
LF Howard 2-5, HR (3), RBI (5), 2 K, RS -- .164
3B Bringas 2-6, 2B (9), RBI (12), RS, E (19) -- .240
2B Trapp 2-4, BB, HBP, K, 4 RS, SB (24) -- .284
RF Bonifacio 1-5, BB, 2B (18), 2 RBI (26), 2 K -- .283
CF Conner 1-3, 3 BB, RBI (8), 2 RS, 2 SB (9), CS (6) -- .256
DH S. Brooks 1-4, BB, RBI (4), RS -- .245
PR-1B Watts 0-0, SF, RBI (38) -- .237
The Royals stranded 10.

Ridings 3 IP, 6 R (3 ER), 6 H, BB, 5 K -- 4.15 ERA
Culver 3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, K, HRA, WP -- 7.36 ERA
R. Brown 1/3 IP, 6 R (3 ER), 4 H, K, WP -- BS, 1, L, 1-3, 3.74 ERA
A. Gonzalez 1 2/3 IP, 3 R (1 ER), 3 H, BB, 2 K -- 6.87 ERA

* A slugfest went the way of the Mets thanks to a 7-run 7th. The Royals batted around in the 1st and scored 3 runs on a 2-run Jorge Bonifacio double and run-scoring error. They batted around again in the 2nd and scored 4 runs on a Mike Antonio RBI double, 2-run Kenny Swab single and Steven Brooks RBI single to make it 7-0 Burlington. The Mets matched the 4 runs in the 2nd off Matt Ridings thanks in part to 3 Royal errors in the inning. Antonio went deep in the 3rd for his 8th homer of the season as the 2-run shot made it 9-4 Royals. The Mets answered that salvo, too, to trim it to 9-6, then trimmed it to 9-8 with a 2-run 4th. Cameron Conner was caught stealing home in the 5th right before Antonio cranked another 2-run job (his 9th) to make it 11-8. Anthony Howard clubbed a homer in the 6th for his 3rd of the season to stretch it to 12-8. Rudy Brown came in to pitch the 7th and the Royals' momentum came to a screeching halt. Four singles, a sac fly and error later, Brown was gone for Abel Gonzalez, who allowed 3 more runs to score as the Mets flipped the lead to 15-12 in their favor. Murray Watts hit a sac fly in the 8th and Conner singled in a run to trim it to 15-14. The Royals couldn't get it tied, tho, and the Mets tacked on 2 insurance runs in the bottom of the frame. The Royals are 20-38. The series ends Sunday.

Rookie - AZL: Royals 5, Reds 1

LF Toney 2-5, 2 2B (10), RBI (23), K, RS -- .328
DH Llanos 1-5, RBI (2), 2 K, RS, SB -- .190
3B Cuckovich 1-4, BB, RBI (12), RS, 2 SB (19) -- .272
2B Garcia 1-4, RBI (21), K -- .295
C Gallagher 0-3 -- .145

A. Williams 3 1/3 IP, 2 H, 2 BB, 7 K -- 4.11 ERA
S. Rosario 4 1/3 IP, H, 2 BB, 6 K -- W, 1-2, 6.84 ERA
Stueve 1 1/3 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, WP -- 2.21 ERA

* The Royals let a 3-hit shutout slip away in the 9th, but didn't let the win slip away. D'Andre Toney hit an RBI double in the 1st and a run-scoring Red error made it 2-0 Royals in the 2nd. A wild pitch scored a Royal run in the 4th and Carlos Garcia kept the offense chipping away with an RBI single in the 5th. Another error scored a run in the 7th to make it 5-0. Meanwhile, Ali Williams and Sergio Rosario combined to strike out 13 over 7 2/3 IP. Andrew Stueve came in to strand the bases full in the 8th and the Reds spoiled the shutout with a sac fly in the 9th before he shut the door. The Royals are 18-31.

Royals on the Farm 8/19

2011-08-19T21:24:00.003-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 7, Tacoma 4 (Thu.)

1B Robinson 3-5, 3 RBI (85), K, RS -- .320
RF Falu 3-5, RBI (37), K, 2 RS, SB (17) -- .292
DH Ka'aihue 2-4, SF, 2B (17), 2 RBI (59), K -- .280
3B Arias 2-5, RBI (17), K, RS -- .215
CF Cain 1-4, BB, K, SB (13) -- .306
Omaha stranded 11. LF Jarrod Dyson had an assist at home.

O'Sullivan 6 IP, 4 ER, 8 H, 2 BB, 6 K, HRA -- W, 7-2, 3.47 ERA
Lebron 2 IP, 3 K -- 1.29 ERA
Chavez IP, 2 H, K -- SV, 16, 3.00 ERA

* The Chasers worked around one good Tacoma inning to pick up the win Thursday. Clint Robinson hit a 2-run single in the 1st and Kila Ka'aihue doubled in a run in the 3rd to make it 3-0. Sean O'Sullivan made one misstep as he served up a 4th-inning grand slam to 2B Matt Tuiasosopo. Robinson singled in the tying run in the 5th and Ka'aihue hit a sac fly in the 7th to regain the lead for Omaha. Joaquin Arias singled in a run and Irving Falu did the same in the 8th to make it 7-4. Jesse Chavez stranded 2 in the 9th. Omaha is 70-55. The set is wrapping up tonight.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 4, Frisco 0

C Treanor 2-2, BB, 2B, 3 RBI (5), CS -- .750, rehab going well
DH Romak 1-3, BB, RBI (64), 2 K, RS -- .261
SS Colon 1-3, BB, CS (7) -- .256
1B Seratelli 0-2, 2 BB, K, 2 RS, SB (32) -- .291
RF Myers 1-4, 2 K -- .255

M. Santiago 7 IP, 4 H, 2 BB, 6 K -- W, 4-1, 2.08 ERA
Baumann 2 IP, H, 5 K -- SV, 2, 3.98 ERA, nice

* The Naturals swept the Riders with a shutout effort on Friday. Matt Treanor hit a 2-out, 3-run double in the 1st, and Frisco's best shot came when they stranded 2 in the 2nd. Jamie Romak hit an RBI single in the 8th and Buddy Baumann struck out 5 straight in the 8th and 9th as he picked up his 2nd save. NWA is 29-24. A 3-game home set with the Midland RockHounds (28-25, AA A's) starts Saturday. Will Smith will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: double rainout

* Salem and the Rocks were washed out for a second straight day and will play twinbills on Saturday and Sunday.

A - Kane County: Beloit 7, Cougars 4

LF Fletcher 3-4, 2B (26), 2 HR (13), 3 RBI (53), 2 RS -- .341
RF Beltre 1-3, BB, RBI (33), K, RS -- .250
3B Cuthbert 0-4, 3 K, 2 E (10) -- .292
DH Eibner 0-4, 4 K -- .220

Adam 3 IP, 7 R (4 ER), 7 H, BB, 3 K -- L, 5-8, 4.48 ERA
J. Mitchell 5 IP, 2 H, 2 K, WP -- 1.59 ERA
C. White IP, H, 2 K -- 5.25 ERA

* Beloit got the runs it needed in the 1st and rode them to the win. Jason Adam gave up 5 runs in the 1st on 3 hits, a walk and error. Angel Franco led off the Cougar 1st with a triple, scored on a Geulin Beltre groundout, and then Brian Fletcher clubbed his 12th homer to cut it to 5-2. Beloit added 2 runs in the 3rd, and Fletcher added his 13th homer in the 7th. Fletcher doubled in a run in the 9th but the Cougars could get no closer. KC is 31-22. A 4-game set at the Clinton LumberKings (28-24, A Mariners) starts Saturday with Leondy Perez making the start.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Billings 9, Chukars 6 (11)

1B Moreno 2-4, BB, 2B (13), HR (8), 2 RBI (29), 2 RS -- .277
LF Elder 1-6, RBI (17), 2 K, RS -- .283
3B Threlkeld 1-5, 2B (12), RBI (25), 2 K -- .267
RF Davis 1-4, HBP, 2B (13), RBI (32), K -- .331

Moen 3 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, BB, 3 K, HRA -- 6.44 ERA
Dooley 4 IP, 8 K -- 7.90 ERA, great outing
N. Johnson 3 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, BB, 2 K, HRA -- 4.71 ERA
Patton IP, 3 ER, 3 H, K, WP -- L, 1-1, 4.31 ERA

* The Chukars helped force extras with 2 in the 8th, rallied back in the 10th to stay alive, but finally faltered in the 11th. Billings got it started with 3 in the 2nd off Kellen Moen, but Henry Moreno went solo in the bottom of the inning for his 8th of the season. Billings added a run in the 3rd to make it 4-1 but Runey Davis doubled in a run in the 5th. The Chukars rallied in the 8th as Chris Elder singled in a run and scored on a 2-out wild pitch to tie it at 4. Nathan Johnson served up a 2-run homer in the top of the 10th, but Moreno and Mark Threlkeld hit back-to-back 2-out RBI doubles in the bottom of the inning to keep IF's hopes alive. Spencer Patton allowed 3 runs in the 11th, however, and there would be no more Chukar magic Friday. IF is 7-11. A 3-game set with the Great Falls Voyagers (11-7, Rookie ChiSox) starts tonight.

Rookie - Burlington: Kingsport 3, B-Royals 2

RF Bonifacio 1-4, 2B (17), RBI (24) -- .285
PH-DH S. Brooks 1-1, RBI (3), 2 SB (6) -- .244
2B Trapp 0-2, 2 BB, RS, SB (23), CS (6) -- .279
SS Antonio 1-3, S -- .271

A. Baez 5 IP, ER, 3 H, 3 BB, 3 K, balk, pickoff -- 7.15 ERA
A. Ferguson 2 IP, 2 R (1 ER), H, K, E -- L, 0-2, 5.76 ERA
Hall IP, 2 K -- 6.51 ERA

* A late Burlington comeback wasn't to be Friday. The Mets got to Angel Baez for a run in the 1st but Baez would hold the line from there. The Royals finally got on the board in the 7th as Jorge Bonifacio doubled in a run, but the tie didn't last long. Andrew Ferguson allowed 2 runs in the 7th to make it 3-1, and Steven Brooks hit a pinch-hit RBI single in the 8th to cut it back to 3-2. Brooks stole two bases to get to third with 1 out, but would get no farther. Mike Antonio was thrown out trying to stretch a single to a double to lead off the 9th and that was about it. Burlington is 20-37. Game 2 is Saturday. Tonight's loss eliminated the Royals from the playoff hunt. 11 games remain.

Rookie - AZL: Dodgers 7, Royals 1

SS Arteaga 2-4 -- .247
DH Gallagher 0-3, BB, K -- .154
CF Toney 1-2, BB, RS, SB (7), E (2) -- .325

O. Gomez IP, H, K -- 0.00 ERA, U.S. organizational debut
Schulz 4 IP, H, 5 K, WP, pickoff -- 0.00 ERA
Witt 2 IP, 4 R (3 ER), 3 H, HRA -- BS, 1, L, 3-3, 9.59 ERA
F. Cruz IP, 3 R (2 ER), 3 H, 2 BB, K -- 10.50 ERA

* A tenuous Royals lead vanished in the 6th. A run-scoring wild pitch scored the Royals' only run in the 2nd. Christian Witt took over the 1-0 lead in the 6th and gave up a 2-run double and 2-run homer to turn the game around. Fernando Cruz gave up 3 more runs in the 8th. The Royals are 17-31.

Royals on the Farm 8/18 -- RotF 1K

2011-08-18T21:59:00.003-05:00

Short report tonight....no haiku, how about headlines? Not much fanfare here, but this is the 1,000th Royals on the Farm report, which kinda blows my mind. Too bad not enough gas in the tank for a full report tonight, but it is what it is. Not to drop that cliche on you. Thanks for reading.

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 4, Tacoma 2 (Wed.)

CF Cain 3-4, 2B (25), RBI (67), K, RS -- .306
SS Y. Navarro 1-4, clutch HR (1), 3 RBI (3), 2 K, RS -- .205, Omaha down to its last strike when he struck
1B Robinson 0-4, 3 K -- .317

Suppan 5 2/3 IP, ER, 7 H, 2 BB, 8 K -- 4.53 ERA
Miner 1 1/3 IP, 3 BB, K -- 1.80 ERA
Sisk IP, ER, H, BB, K -- W, 4-1, 1.52 ERA
Herrera IP, H, 3 K -- SV, 3, 0.96 ERA

* Backs against wall, Yamaico's first Omaha HR wins game

Omaha is 69-55. Magic #: 14. Yes, I know, they never put first names in headlines, but I am. (Putting cigar back in mouth like an old-timey newsman).

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 5, Frisco 4

LF Orlando 3-4, 2 RS, SB (6), E -- .333
C Theriot 2-3, S, clutch 3B, RBI (17), K, picked off runner at second -- .267
CF Robinson 1-5, RBI (20) -- .256
2B Colon 1-3, SF, RBI (55), K -- .255
3B Lisson 1-2, S, SF, go-ahead RBI (42), RS -- .267
RF Myers 1-3, BB, HR (6), RBI (38), K, 2 RS, SB (8) -- .255

Odorizzi 5 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, BB, 7 K, 2 HRA -- 4.65 ERA
Lafferty 3 IP, 4 H, K -- W, 1-0, 2.13 ERA
Hardy IP, UER, 2 H, BB, K -- SV, 6, 1.23 ERA

* NWA scores 2 in 8th to beat Riders

NWA is 28-24 and 2 games up.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: rainout

* Rain forces Friday twinbill with Sawx

Wilmington is 19-32. Justin Marks and Mike Mariot will start the games.

A - Kane County: Cougars 2, Beloit 0 (4-hitter)

2B Franco 3-4, 2B (12), RS -- .253
DH Pickett 2-3, K, CS (3) -- .333
1B Kuebler 1-3, 2B (15), RBI (24) -- .223
LF Fletcher 0-2, HBP, RS -- .336
3B Cuthbert 0-3, K -- .297
CF Eibner 0-3, K -- .224

Ventura 5 IP, 4 H, BB, 5 K, WP -- W, 3-4, 4.54 ERA
A. Cruz 2 IP, BB, 2 K -- 2.65 ERA
Boruff 2 IP, 2 K -- SV, 6, 1.94 ERA

* Ventura an Ace Thursday, 4-hits Snappers

KC is 31-21. Jason Adam pitches the series finale Friday. I couldn't pass up the pairing of Ventura and Ace, I would have dropped an Ace Ventura but a losing record and 4.54 ERA aren't exactly ace stats.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Billings 6, Chukars 3 (Wed.)

DH Espy 3-4, HR (6), RBI (28), K, RS -- .300
CF Chism 2-5, HR (7), RBI (28), K, RS -- .257
RF Davis 2-3, BB, 2B (12), RS, CS (3) -- .333
LF Fradejas 1-4, RBI (7), K -- .268
3B DelGuidice 0-4, K, E -- .375

B. Martin 6 IP, 6 R (2 ER), 7 H, 5 K -- L, 2-6, 4.83 ERA
Jo. Sanchez 2 IP, BB, 3 K -- 7.86 ERA
Fassold IP, BB, K, 2 WP -- 4.86 ERA

* Martin, defensive lapses doom Chukars

IF is 7-10. The teams are battling in extras tonight in the series finale.

Rookie - Burlington: Bluefield 2, B-Royals 1 (5)

LF Howard 0-1, S, RBI (4), K -- .153
2B Trapp 1-2, K -- .282
C Swab 1-2, K -- .247
SS Antonio 0-2 -- .270

Murray 4 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, BB, 4 K, E (3) -- L, 2-4, 3.40 ERA

* Rain is Jays' 10th man in win

Burlington is 20-36. A 3-game set at the Kingsport Mets (31-25) starts Friday.

Rookie - AZL: Indians 4, Royals 0 (3-hitter)

CF Llanos 2-4, 3B, K, picked off, assist at third -- .273
2B Morales 1-3 -- .354
DH Gallagher 0-3 -- .163

Hodgson IP, 2 K -- 0.00 ERA, first Pipeline appearance in many many days
Ogando 4 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, 2 BB, 3 K, HRA -- L, 0-4, 10.52 ERA
N. Blanco 2 IP, H, K -- 4.76 ERA
Edelen IP, BB -- 7.71 ERA
Stueve IP, H, BB -- 2.06 ERA

* Tribe shuts down Royals

The Royals are 17-30.

Royals on the Farm 8/17

2011-08-17T20:18:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 3, Tacoma 2 (Tue.)

2B Mertins 2-3, RBI (2), picked off -- .231
LF Dyson 2-4, K, RS -- .297
DH Robinson 1-4, RBI (82), K, RS -- .320
C Clark 1-3, 2B (10), RBI (11) -- .278
CF Cain 0-3, BB -- .302

Mendoza 6 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, 5 K -- W, 9-5, 2.30 ERA
Pucetas 1 1/3 IP, BB, K -- 5.44 ERA
Chavez 1 2/3 IP, H, 5 K -- SV, 15, 3.06 ERA, nice outing

* The Storm Chasers weathered the 5th and took the lead for keeps in the 6th. Luis Mendoza and Anthony Vasquez were dueling as it was scoreless through 4, but Cody Clark doubled in a run in the 5th and Kurt Mertins singled in a run to make it 2-0. Mendoza found the lead slippery as two RBI singles tied it in the bottom of the inning. Omaha loaded the bases with 0 out in the 6th and Clint Robinson had an RBI forceout to break the game in Omaha's favor. Jesse Chavez came in to strand 2 in the 8th and then stranded 1 more in the 9th to pick up his 15th save. Omaha is 68-55. I'll recap tonight's game 2 tomorrow.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 14, Frisco 2

1B Seratelli 5-5, 2B (12), 4 RBI (58), 3 RS, SB (31) -- .295, he's had a good season
DH Romak 3-5, 2B (19), RBI (63), 2 K, 3 RS -- .261
RF Myers 2-4, BB, 2B (18), 2 RBI (37), RS -- .254
3B R. Navarro 2-5, 2 RBI (15), RS -- .291
CF Robinson 2-5, BB, K, RS -- .256
2B Colon 2-5, S, 2B (11), RS -- .255
SS Bianchi 1-3, 2 BB, RBI (44), 3 RS, SB (16) -- .258
C Treanor 1-2, 2 RBI, RS -- .500, rehab
LF Orlando 0-4, RBI (17), 3 K -- .316

Dwyer 6 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, BB, 8 K -- W, 7-10, 5.66 ERA
Chapman 1 1/3 IP, BB, K -- 4.02 ERA
Paulino IP, H, K -- 5.43 ERA

* The Naturals broke out the bats to drub the RoughRiders Wednesday. NWA got it started with 4 in the 3rd on a run-scoring error, Jamie Romak RBI single, and 2-run single by Matt Treanor. The Naturals added 4 in the 5th on an Anthony Seratelli RBI single, bases-loaded walk by Wil Myers, Paulo Orlando RBI forceout and Rey Navarro RBI groundout. Chris Dwyer had another strong start but allowed single runs in the 6th and 7th. NWA responded to the tallies with 2 in the 6th on RBI singles by Seratelli and Myers and 3 in the 7th on a Romak RBI double and 2-run Seratelli double. Myers doubled and scored on a Navarro groundout in the 8th to polish it off. NWA is 26-24. Game 2 is Thursday. Jake Odorizzi will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Frederick 4, Blue Rocks 1

1B Stovall 0-2, HBP, SF, RBI (13) -- .230
DH Testa 1-3, BB, K, RS, SB (16) -- .265

Sample 6 1/3 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, BB, 4 K, HRA, 2 E (7) -- L, 7-11, 5.42 ERA
Volz 1 2/3 IP, UER, 3 H, BB, E -- 2.93 ERA

* Frederick swept the Rocks thanks in part to 5 Wilmington errors on Wednesday. Tyler Sample gave up a solo homer in the 2nd and the Keys added a run in the 5th. The Rocks put two in scoring position with 1 out in the 6th and Ryan Stovall hit a sac fly in the 6th but the rally stopped there. The Keys added runs in the 7th and 8th and the last 11 Rocks went down starting with Stovall's sac fly. Wilmington is 19-32. A 4-game home set with the Salem Red Sox (24-28) starts Thursday. Justin Marks starts game 1.

A - Kane County: Beloit 10, Cougars 1

RF Beltre 2-5, 2B (13), K, E (10), assist at third -- .251
CF Eibner 2-3, BB, RS -- .227
DH Pickett 1-4, RBI (3), K -- .315
LF Fletcher 0-4, BB, K -- .338
3B Cuthbert 1-5, K, E (8) -- .301
KC stranded 12.

Billo 6 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, BB, 7 K, HRA -- L, 9-3, 1.56, not a bad start, but took the L
Graham IP, UER, H, 2 K -- 0.00 ERA
Giovenco 1 2/3 IP, 6 ER, 4 H, 4 BB, K -- 8.04 ERA
C. White 1/3 IP, 2 H, K -- 5.73 ERA

* A 6-run 9th put it out of reach for the Snappers. The Cougars stranded some runners early but Greg Billo held the line on the mound. Geulin Beltre tried to score on a Cheslor Cuthbert 2-out single in the 5th but was thrown out at the plate to end the inning. Billo lost the game on one pitch as a 2-out 3-run homer in the 6th by DH Jairo Perez gave the Snappers the lead. Jovan Pickett singled in a run in the bottom of the 6th but the Cougars left the bases loaded. Beloit tacked on a run in the 7th and Mike Giovenco and Cole White got battered for 6 runs in the 9th. KC is 30-21. Yordano Ventura starts game 2 Thursday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 5, Billings 1 (Tue.)

C Jenkins 2-4, 2B, RBI (5), K, RS -- .233
CF Davis 2-3, BB, 2B (11), K, RS -- .326
1B Moreno 1-3, HBP, HR (7), RBI (27), K, RS -- .273
RF Elder 1-4, HR (4), RBI (16), RS, assist at home -- .291
DH Mateo 1-3, BB -- .314
2B DelGuidice 1-4, K -- .500

Peacock 6 IP, ER, 3 H, BB, 9 K, HRA -- W, 4-4, 3.81 ERA, looking good for Kane County rotation in '12
Patton IP, H -- 3.56 ERA
Carl 2 IP, H, 6 K -- 1.33 ERA, eye-popping doesn't describe his stats, 18 games/27 IP, 3 BB/58 K!!!, .146 OAV, 0 BB/23 K in 28 outs this month

* Great performances by Brian Peacock and Edwin Carl highlighted Tuesday's Chukars win. Peacock gave up a leadoff homer in the 1st and otherwise allowed only 2 hits in the 4th. Ryan Jenkins hit an RBI double in the 2nd, scored on a wild pitch and an error scored a run to make it 3-1 IF. Chris Elder slapped his 4th homer in the 3rd and Henry Moreno went deep for his 7th homer in the 5th to make it 5-1. Carl gave up a leadoff single in the 8th then struck out the next 6 batters. IF is 7-9. Game 3 is tonight. Recap tomorrow. C Ryan Jenkins got moved up to Omaha after the game. P Gary Cuevas has also been moved up to Wilmington. Carl to Kane County is what I say! Hey, Peacock too for the stretch run!

Rookie - Burlington: Bluefield 7, B-Royals 3

3B Bringas 2-4, E (18) -- .237
CF Adams 1-4, HR (4), RBI (15), K, RS -- .305
C Shin 1-4, RBI (14), 2 K -- .229
RF Bonifacio 0-3, SF, RBI (23), K -- .287
SS Antonio 0-3, BB, 2 K, RS -- .273

Cantrell 5 IP, 3 H, BB, 5 K, pickoff -- 4.87 ERA
Pizziconi 1 1/3 IP, 4 R (1 ER), 2 H, 2 BB, 2 K, WP -- BS, 1, L, 0-1, 6.75 ERA
Middendorf 1 2/3 IP, 3 UER, 3 H, 4 K, 2 WP -- 14.54 ERA

* The Royals had more errors (4), than runs (3) on Wednesday. Lane Adams started the game with a bang as his solo homer (his 4th) made it 1-0 Royals. Eric Cantrell pitched 5 scoreless and things started going wrong when he handed it off to Andrea Pizziconi in the 6th. The Jays took the lead with 2 in the 6th, then scored 5 in the 7th off Pizziconi and David Middendorf to make it 7-1. Jorge Bonifacio hit a sac fly in the 9th and Jin-Ho Shin hit an RBI single before the Royals' luck petered out. Burlington is 20-35. The series ends Thursday.

Rookie - AZL: D-Backs 10, Royals 3

SS Arteaga 1-4, 2B (8), RBI (23), K -- .246
CF Llanos 1-4, RBI -- .143
2B Garcia 0-4, RBI (20), K, RS -- .298
C Gallagher 1-4 -- .174

M. Morales 3 IP, 6 R (3 ER), 6 H, BB, 5 K -- L, 3-3, 6.49 ERA
Durden 2/3 IP, 4 R (3 ER), 4 H, HRA -- 13.50 ERA
Edelbrock 2 1/3 IP, 4 K -- 11.17 ERA
F. Cruz 2 IP, H -- 10.06 ERA
Witt IP, 2 K -- 9.26 ERA

* The Diamondbacks amassed 10 runs before the Royals got on the board and that was it. The D-Backs started it with 2 in the 1st off Max Morales, then added 4 in the 3rd. Andrew Durden allowed 4 more runs in the 4th to make it 10-0 D-Backs. Carlos Garcia hit an RBI forceout, Alex Llanos singled in a run and Humberto Arteaga doubled in the Royals' final run. The Royals stranded 2 in the 9th. They dropped to 17-29.

Royals on the Farm 8/16

2011-08-16T20:44:00.002-05:00

Final tally: 34 of the 50 2011 Royals draftees signed. Nine of the top 10, 22 of the top 25.

AAA - Omaha: Omaha takes on Tacoma in game 1 tonight

* This is gonna be a late one (for me, anyway, not necessarily in general). Report tomorrow.

AA - NW Arkansas: off day

* A 3-game home set with the Frisco RoughRiders (27-23, AA Rangers) starts Wednesday. Chris Dwyer will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Frederick 4, Blue Rocks 3

RF Testa 2-4, 2B (23), HR (4), RBI (31), K, RS, SB (15) -- .265
CF Prades 1-4, 2B (15), RBI (19), 2 K, RS -- .294
SS Liberto 1-3, 2B, RBI -- .167
LF Tim Ferguson had an assist at third.

E. Pimentel 6 IP, 3 ER, 7 H, BB, 3 K, HRA -- 3.80 ERA
Dennick 2 2/3 IP, ER, 3 H, 4 K, pickoff -- L, 2-6, 3.80 ERA

* A late Rocks comeback went for nothing as the Keys got a walkoff hit in the 9th. Elisaul Pimentel served up a solo homer in the 2nd and Wilmington stranded 2 in the 4th. The Keys added 2 in the 5th to make it 3-0 but the Rocks offense awoke in the 6th. Carlo Testa went deep in the 6th for his 4th of the season and the Rocks tied it in the 7th on RBI doubles by Yem Prades and Mike Liberto. Ryan Dennick gave up a 2-out single in the 9th and DH Justin Dalles hit a walkoff double. Wilmington is 19-31. Game 3 is Wednesday. Tyler Sample will start. P Tyler Graham was sent down to Kane County without making an appearance for the Rocks.

A - Kane County: off day

* The Cougars start a 3-game home set with the Beloit Snappers (23-26, A Twins) on Wednesday. Greg Billo will start game 1.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 13, Billings 2

SS DelGuidice 4-4, BB, 2B, 4 RBI, 2 RS -- .625, that's a good sign
3B Threlkeld 3-5, 2 2B (11), 2 RBI (24), 2 K, 2 RS -- .274
C T. Smith 2-3, 2 BB, 2 RBI (4), PB (2) -- .200
2B Piterson 2-6, 2B (9), 2 RS, 2 SB (4) -- .295
1B Moreno 1-5, BB, RBI (26), K, 3 RS -- .272
DH Mateo 1-6, 2 K, RS -- .314
RF Davis 0-3, HBP, BB, 2 K, 2 RS -- .318
IF stranded 12.

A. Brooks 6 IP, 2 ER, 8 H, BB, 3 K, HRA, WP -- W, 5-1, 3.54 ERA
G. Cuevas 2 IP, 4 BB, 2 K, WP -- 4.58 ERA
Penny IP, H, BB, K -- 10.22 ERA

* The Chukars broke out for 10 runs in the 5th and 6th to whip the Mustangs. Henry Moreno singled in a run in the 1st and Aaron Brooks allowed a run in the 2nd before getting the first of 4 Chukar double plays. Tyler Smith hit an RBI single in the 2nd to make it 2-1. Idaho Falls broke out for 4 runs with 2 out in the 5th on a run-scoring error, Mark Threlkeld RBI double, Nick DelGuidice hit an RBI single and Smith took a bases-loaded walk before the Chukars left the bases full. Brooks gave up a leadoff homer in the 6th but the Chukars answered with 6 runs in the inning on a run-scoring error, a 3-run DelGuidice double, Smith RBI single and run-scoring wild pitch. Threlkeld hit an RBI double in the 7th to finish it. IF is 6-9. Game 2 is tonight. Report tomorrow. Brooks was named Pioneer League Pitcher of the Week Monday after a shutout start versus Casper.

Rookie - Burlington: B-Royals 9, Bluefield 5

2B Trapp 2-5, 2B (13), 3 RBI (39), K, RS, SB (22), E (18) -- .286
CF Adams 2-5, 2B (8), 2 RBI (14), 2 K, RS -- .307
SS Antonio 2-5, 2B (9), RBI (31), RS -- .278
RF Bonifacio 2-4, BB, 2 2B (16), RBI (22), RS -- .291
DH Conner 2-4, RBI (7), K, 2 RS, SB (7) -- .261
3B Bringas 2-4, 2B (7), RS -- .230
C Shin 1-5, RBI (13), 2 K, RS -- .228

Graffeo 3 1/3 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, 3 BB, 3 K, HRA -- 2.25 ERA
A. Gonzalez 3 2/3 IP, ER, 2 H, 4 K -- W, 2-1, 7.02 ERA
R. Brown 2 IP, ER, 3 H, 2 K -- 2.97 ERA

* Two-thirds of the Burlington lineup had 2 hits each as the Royals ran wild in the 2nd to get the win. Nick Graffeo allowed a run in the 1st but 12 Royals would come to the plate in the 2nd. Jin-Ho Shin hit an RBI single, Cameron Conner did the same, Lane Adams hit a 2-run double, Justin Trapp hit a 2-run double, and Mike Antonio and Jorge Bonifacio hit RBI doubles to make it 8-1. Graffeo gave up a 2-run homer in the 4th and got pulled for Abel Gonzalez. The Jays got another run in the 7th but Trapp singled in a run in the 8th. Rudy Brown allowed a run in the 8th but finished it from there. The B-Royals are 20-34. Game 2 is Wednesday.

Rookie - AZL: off day

Royals on the Farm 8/15 -- Starling watch continues

2011-08-15T19:57:00.005-05:00

This has felt like once...twice...three times a Monday. Surely Tuesday has to be better, right? The Royals signed 5 draftees, including most recently 3rd rounder righty Bryan Brickhouse. Also in the fold are 4th rounder righty Kyle Smith and 5th rounder OF Patrick Leonard. 29th round righty Jake Junis and 30th rounder righty Mark Binford are also signed. Still awaiting word on Bubba Starling. The only other pick from the top 10 KC rounds who is unsigned is 8th round righty Evan Beal. As of 11:15 p.m. CT, no update on Starling on BA's draft blog. UPDATE -- Twitter reports have Starling signed, so Dayton didn't blow that, I guess.

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 9, Salt Lake 6

RF Falu 4-4, HBP, 2 3B (8), 2 RBI (36), 3 RS, SB (15) -- .288
DH Robinson 2-2, 2 BB, SF, 2 RBI (81), RS -- .320
SS Y. Navarro 2-4, 2B, K, CS (3) -- .219
1B Ka'aihue 1-5, HR (10), 2 RBI (57), 2 K, RS, E (3) -- .281
CF Cain 0-4, SF, 2 RBI (66), K -- .304
3B Arias 0-3, BB, RBI (16), K -- .213
C Manny Pina had a pickoff at third.

Montgomery 6 IP, 4 ER, 5 H, 3 BB, 4 K -- 5.35 ERA
Lebron IP, ER, H, 2 K, HRA -- BS, 1, 1.80 ERA
Herrera 2 IP, ER, H, 2 K -- W, 1-0, 1.08 ERA

* A see-saw game ended with Omaha on top thanks to a big 9th. Joaquin Arias hit an RBI groundout in the 2nd and Irving Falu tripled and scored on a Clint Robinson sac fly in the 3rd. Salt Lake got to Mike Montgomery for a run in the 4th and then scored 3 in the 5th to make it 4-2. Falu hit a 2-run triple in the 7th and scored on a Lorenzo Cain sac fly to give Omaha a 5-4 lead, but Willy Lebron served up a solo homer in the bottom of the inning to tie the game. Cain hit an RBI groundout in the 9th, Robinson singled in a run and Kila Ka'aihue smacked his 10th homer of the season to make it 9-5. A Ka'aihue error helped a run score in the 9th but Kelvin Herrera finished it without further drama to pick up his 1st AAA win. Omaha is 67-55. A 4-game set at the Tacoma Rainiers (62-60, AAA Mariners) starts Tuesday. Luis Mendoza will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Midland 4, Naturals 2

RF Francis 1-3, SF, RBI (25), K -- .260
2B Bianchi 1-4, RBI (43), K -- .257
SS Colon 1-4, RS -- .253
CF Myers 0-2, 2 BB -- .251

Jeffress 4 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, 3 BB, 3 K -- L, 1-2, 4.56 ERA
Dobies IP, 3 H, K -- 6.55 ERA
Baumann 2 IP, ER, H, 2 K, HRA -- 4.11 ERA
E. Garcia IP, K -- 3.38 ERA

* It was all Midland after the 3rd as they took the series finale by a 4-2 count. The RockHounds scored 2 off Jeremy Jeffress in the 1st but the Naturals responded with a Nick Francis sac fly in the 2nd and a Jeff Bianchi RBI single in the 3rd to tie the game. Midland scored a run in the 4th and then got a solo homer in the 7th. NWA stranded 2 in the 7th as the last 7 went down in order. The Naturals are 26-24. They have Tuesday off.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Frederick 3, Blue Rocks 1

3B Whittleman 2-4, HR (19), RBI (60), K, RS -- .237
2B Merrifield 1-4, K -- .261

Melville 6 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 2 BB, 3 K, HRA -- L, 8-9, 4.47 ERA
Caldwell 2 IP, ER, 2 H, 2 K, HRA -- 0.96 ERA

* A 2-run 1st gave the Keys all they needed. Tim Melville gave up a 2-run homer in the 1st and Keys SP Nathan Moreau 3-hit the Rocks over 6 IP. Allen Caldwell gave up a solo homer in the 7th and only a John Whittleman solo shot (his 19th) in the 9th averted the shutout. Wilmington is 19-30. Game 2 is Tuesday. Elisaul Pimentel will start.

A - Kane County: Cougars 7, Cedar Rapids 4

RF Beltre 2-5, 2 RBI (32), K, 2 RS -- .249
LF Fletcher 2-5, 2B (25), 2 K, 2 RS -- .343
3B Cuthbert 1-2, 3 BB, 2 RBI (46), SB (2) -- .303
CF Eibner 1-4, BB, 2 K, RS -- .221

Garrido 6 IP, 3 ER, 7 H, BB, 2 K -- W, 2-4, 5.86 ERA
Rivers 2 IP, UER, 2 H, 2 K -- 0.77 ERA
Rogers IP, 2 BB, 3 K -- SV, 6, 2.45 ERA

* Three late runs came in handy for Kane County. Cheslor Cuthbert hit a 2-run single in the 1st but the Kernels scored 3 in the 3rd off Santiago Garrido to grab the lead. Geulin Beltre hit an RBI groundout in the 5th and a run-scoring error gave the Cougars the lead before they left the bases full. Brett Eibner doubled and scored on a wild pitch in the 8th but the Kernels matched the run to keep the deficit at 1. Beltre hit an RBI single in the 9th and scored on a passed ball as the Cougars got some insurance. Nick Rogers struck out the side around 2 walks in the 9th. KC is 30-20 after the sweep. The Cougs have Tuesday off.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: A 4-game home set with the Billings Mustangs (8-6, Rookie Reds) starts tonight.

* Report tomorrow. Aaron Brooks is starting.

Rookie - Burlington: off day

* A 3-game set at the Bluefield Blue Jays (31-22) starts Tuesday.

Rookie - AZL: Indians 7, Royals 2

C Marquez 1-3, BB, 2B (2), 2 RBI (3) -- .138
3B Morales 1-4, K -- .335
2B Garcia 1-4 -- .308

S. Rosario 3 1/3 IP, 5 ER, 5 H, 4 BB, 2 K, WP -- L, 0-2, 8.18 ERA
A. Williams 2 2/3 IP, ER, 5 H, 2 K -- 4.55 ERA
Schulz 2 IP, UER, 3 H, 2 K, WP -- 0.00 ERA, pro debut

* The Indians opened a 3-0 lead and didn't look back on Monday. Sergio Rosario gave up a 2-out, 2-run triple to RF Chia-Ching (what a great name!) Lin in the 2nd, then allowed a 2-out RBI single in the 3rd. Alex Marquez hit a 2-out, 2-run double in the 4th to trim it to 3-2 but the Indians responded with 3 off Rosario and Ali Williams in the 4th. Clayton Schulz made his pro debut in the 7th and threw a run-scoring wild pitch. The Royals didn't have a hit after the 5th. The Royals are 17-28.

Royals on the Farm 8/14 -- Mateo cycles

2011-08-14T17:27:00.004-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Salt Lake 2, Storm Chasers 1

LF Dyson 2-4, HR (2), RBI (19), RS -- .298
1B Ka'aihue 1-3, BB, K -- .283
CF Cain 0-4, K -- .307

Mazzaro 6 2/3 IP, ER, 7 H, 3 BB, 10 K, pickoff -- 4.72 ERA
Miner 1 1/3 IP, ER, 2 H, K, HRA -- L, 1-1, 1.98 ERA

* Freddy Sandoval was the walkoff hero for the Bees in Sunday's win. The Bees scored a run off Vin Mazzaro in the 1st before he left the bases loaded. Jarrod Dyson led off the 4th with his 2nd homer of the season to tie the game. Mazzaro kept it tied with a pickoff at second directly before a would-be go-ahead double in the 6th. Jerome Williams kept the Chasers off the board any further tho, and Sandoval led off the 9th with a walkoff shot off Zach Miner to finish it. Omaha is 66-55. The series ends Monday.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 7, Midland 4

DH Romak 2-5, HR (22), RBI (62), 2 K, RS -- .256
1B Seratelli 2-3, BB, RBI (54), RS -- .289
RF Myers 2-4, RBI (35), 2 RS, E (6) -- .253
SS Colon 2-5, RS -- .253
3B Navarro 1-3, SF, 2B (7), 3 RBI (13) -- .291

W. Smith 7 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, 6 K -- W, 11-8, 4.17 ERA
Chapman IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 3 BB -- 4.20 ERA
Lafferty IP, K -- SV, 1, 2.79 ERA

* The Naturals got a quality Will Smith start to take down the RockHounds. Jamie Romak led off the 2nd with his 22nd homer but Midland tied it off 2 doubles in the 3rd. Anthony Seratelli singled in a run in the 4th, Wil Myers hit an RBI single and Rey Navarro hit a 2-run double made it 5-1 Nats. A Navarro sac fly and run-scoring error increased the lead to 7-1 in the 6th. Smith allowed another run in the 6th and Kevin Chapman allowed 2 in the 8th, but Brendan Lafferty came in to strand 2 in the 9th for his 1st save. NWA is 26-23. The series ends Monday with Jeremy Jeffress starting.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: rainout

* The finale with Lynchburg was cancelled as the teams don't play again. A 3-game set at the Frederick Keys (30-19, A-Adv. O's) starts Monday. Tim Melville will start.

A - Kane County: Cougars 3, Cedar Rapids 2

DH Franco 2-4, RBI (20), CS (6) -- .246
1B Kuebler 2-4, K, picked off -- .226
C David 2-4 -- .230
CF Eibner 1-4, HR (11), 2 RBI (28), K, RS -- .221
3B Cuthbert 0-3, BB, 2 K -- .301

L. Perez 6 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 3 BB, 3 K, HRA -- W, 6-11, 3.35 ERA
C. White IP, H, K -- 5.91 ERA
Byrne 1/3 IP, nothing -- 3.93 ERA, injury?
Boruff 1 2/3 IP, H, K -- SV, 5, 2.01 ERA

* Leondy Perez kept rolling with his 4th straight win as the Cougars defeated the Kernels. Angel Franco singled in Orlando Calixte in the 3rd and Brett Eibner hammered a 2-run homer in the 6th for his 11th of the season to make it 3-0 KC. Perez took a 3-hit shutout into the 6th but gave up a 2-run homer that inning to cut the lead to 1. Kevin David had caught a runner stealing in the inning and that factor came up big. Cole White tiptoed around a leadoff triple in the 7th and the Cougars brought it home from there. KC is 29-20. Santiago Garrido will start Monday's series finale.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 15, Ogden 10 (Sat.)

DH Mateo 5-5, BB, 2B (7), 3B (3), HR (2), 8 RBI (30), 2 RS -- .319, what a game, 5 hits, a cycle (by the 5th!) plus 8 RBI
2B Piterson 3-5, BB, 2B (8), K, 4 RS -- .292
RF Elder 2-5, 2B (8), HR (3), 2 RBI (15), SB, assist at second -- .293
SS Martinez 2-6, 4 K, RS -- .239
LF Davis 1-6, GS (6), 4 RBI (31), 5 K, RS, SB (7) -- .326, best of times, worst of times for Runey
1B Moreno 1-5, BB, RBI (25), 2 K, RS, E (10) -- .274

Avinazar 5 IP, 4 R (3 ER), 7 H, 2 BB, 4 K, HRA, pickoff -- 9.33 ERA
Dooley 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 4 H, BB, K -- 8.60 ERA
N. Johnson 2 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, BB, K, HRA, balk -- BS, 1, 4.50 ERA
Carl 1 1/3 IP, 2 K -- W, 2-1, 1.44 ERA

* It took a 5-run 9th for the Chukars to win a Saturday slugfest over Ogden on Daniel Mateo's career night. Mateo hit an RBI double in the 1st but Willian Avinazar allowed the tying run in the bottom of the frame. Chris Elder hit a 2-run homer in the 2nd for his 3rd of the season and Mateo singled in a run to make it 4-1. Mateo clubbed a 2-run homer (his 2nd) in the 4th to put him a triple shy of the cycle and give IF a 6-1 lead. Avinazar allowed 2 runs in the 4th but Mateo completed the cycle in a big way with a bases-loaded triple in the 5th to make it 9-3. Ogden wasn't done, though, as the Raptors plated 1 in the 5th and Jonathan Dooley allowed 4 in the 6th to cut it to 9-8. Mateo hit an RBI single in the 7th to stretch the lead to 2 but Nathan Johnson gave up a 2-run homer that inning to tie the game. The Chukars loaded the bases to start the 9th and Henry Moreno took a bases-loaded walk before Runey Davis cranked a 2-out grand slam (his 6th) to put a nice end to a 5-K night personally. Edwin Carl struck out 2 in the 9th to pick up his 2nd win. IF is 5-9. They have today off. Mateo just turned 20 on Aug. 10.

Rookie - Burlington: Danville 10, B-Royals 2 (7)

CF Adams 2-4, K, RS -- .303
SS Antonio 1-3, BB, 2B (8), RBI (30), 2 E (20) -- .274
2B Js. Rodriguez 0-3, SF, RBI (11), SB (13) -- .265

Ridings 2 IP, 5 ER, 7 H, BB, 2 K, 2 HRA -- L, 2-4, 3.88 ERA
Ferguson 3 1/3 IP, UER, 2 H, BB, 4 K -- 5.86 ERA
Culver 2 1/3 IP, 4 ER, 5 H, 4 K, 2 HRA -- 7.50 ERA

* Mother Nature put an end to Sunday's game mercifully for the Royals as Danville got the sweep. Matt Ridings had a rough game as the Braves had 4 runs in before he recorded an out. Ridings gave up a leadoff homer in the 3rd and was pulled for Andrew Ferguson. The Royals left the bases loaded in the 3rd and Malcom Culver gave up 2 2-run homers in the 6th to make it 9-0. Danville added a run in the 7th and the Royal offense finally showed up that inning as Jose Rodriguez hit a sac fly and Mike Antonio doubled in a run to cut it to 10-2. Culver gave up a 2-out double in the 8th and then the rain took it from there. Burlington is 19-34. The Royals have Monday off.

Rookie - AZL: Dodgers 3, Royals 2

2B Garcia 3-4, RS, SB (8) -- .310
LF Toney 2-5, 2B (8), RBI (22) -- .325
CF Allen 2-3, S, 2B (5), RBI (11) -- .248
DH Gallagher 0-4, K -- .167

E. Diaz 6 IP, 2 H, BB, 5 K, WP, pickoff -- 5.65 ERA
Edelen 3 IP, 3 ER, 3 H, BB, 3 K, HRA -- BS, 2, L, 1-1, 7.93 ERA

* The 7th inning was a killer for the Royals on Sunday. The loss was unfortunate for starter Eric Diaz, who went 6 strong innings against the Dodgers. Jerrell Allen singled in the first run of the game in the 4th and Diaz handed the tenuous 1-0 lead to Brian Edelen in the 7th. A walk and double tied the game, then a 2-run homer gave the Dodgers a 3-1 lead. D'Andre Toney stroked an RBI double to cut it to 3-2 in the bottom of the inning, but he got stranded at third. The tying run wouldn't be produced. The Royals are 17-27.

Royals on the Farm 8/13

2011-08-13T22:51:00.002-05:00

Late report tonight, got busy watching The Town and got distracted. Good movie, by the way. Exciting, not 100% predictable.

AAA - Omaha: Omaha 11, Salt Lake 6

LF Dyson 4-6, HR, 2 RBI (18), 2 RS, 2 SB (34) -- .295
RF Falu 2-5, 3B (6), 3 RBI (34), RS, SB (14) -- .278
C Pina 2-4, HBP, 2B (10), 2 RBI (19), RS -- .250
DH Robinson 2-3, BB, HBP, 2B (30), 2 RBI (79), RS -- .317
2B-SS Zawadzki 2-4, BB, HR (8), RBI (39), RS, SB (14) -- .245
3B Arias 1-5, 3B (4), RBI (15), RS -- .220
CF Cain 1-4, BB, 2 RS -- .310

O'Sullivan 6 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, BB, K -- W, 6-2, 3.20 ERA
Pucetas 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, BB, K -- 5.52 ERA
Chavez 1 1/3 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, 2 K -- 3.16 ERA
Sisk IP, H, K -- 1.19 ERA

* The Storm Chasers slapped together four good rallies to even the set with the Bees. Yamaico Navarro struck out looking in the 1st and was ejected in the aftermath, but the Chasers regrouped to get a Clint Robinson RBI double and 3-run Irving Falu triple. Sean O'Sullivan allowed 2 runs in the 3rd but held them in check otherwise. Jarrod Dyson led off the 4th with his 1st homer of the season and Manny Pina added an RBI single. Lance Zawadzki then led off the 5th with his 8th homer and a Clint Robinson RBI single was followed by a Pina RBI double to make it 9-2 Chasers. Kevin Pucetas took over in the 7th and didn't last the inning as the Bees scored 3 runs. Jesse Chavez allowed a run in the 8th but Joaquin Arias hit an RBI triple in the 9th and Dyson finished the scoring with an RBI groundout. Omaha is 66-54. Vin Mazzaro pitches Sunday's game 3.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 8, Midland 3

1B Seratelli 3-5, 2 2B (11), 3 RBI (53) -- .286
LF Orlando 2-4, BB, HR (2), 2 RBI (16), 3 RS, SB (5) -- .333
SS Colon 2-3, BB, S, 2 RS, E (16) -- .251
3B Lisson 2-4, 2 K, RS, SB (12) -- .266
DH Romak 0-5, RBI (61), 2 K -- .254

M. Santiago 6 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 8 H, 2 K, WP, balk, pickoff -- W, 3-1, 2.40 ERA
Hardy 3 IP, H, BB, 3 K -- SV, 5, 1.27 ERA

* The Naturals held Midland in check for most of the game as the won the opener. Paulo Orlando hit a 2-run homer in the 1st for his 2nd at AA this season but Mario Santiago balked in a run in the 1st. Jamie Romak hit an RBI groundout in the 3rd and Anthony Seratelli hit a 2-run double to make it 5-1. An error made it 6-1 Nats in the 4th but Midland got 2 in the 4th to trim down the lead. Derrick Robinson stole home in the 9th and Seratelli piled on another RBI double. Blaine Hardy went 3 strong to finish his 5th save. NWA is 25-23. Game 2 is Sunday. Will Smith will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 3, Lynchburg 2

RF Van Stratten 2-3, BB, RBI (22), RS, picked off -- .301
CF Prades 1-4, RBI (18), 2 K -- .295
2B Merrifield 0-4, K, RS -- .261

Marks 7 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 6 K -- 4.32 ERA
Paukovits 1 2/3 IP, BB, 2 K -- W, 2-2, 3.67 ERA

* The Blue Rocks got a walkoff run on an error in the 9th. Yem Prades and Nick Van Stratten hit RBI singles in the 6th to break the ice in a scoreless game but Justin Marks couldn't hold it as Lynchburg scored 2 in the 7th. Van Stratten and John Whittleman led off the 9th with singles, and a fielding error on a ball hit by Ryan Stovall scored Van Stratten to end it. Wilmington is 19-29. The series ends Sunday with Allen Caldwell getting the start. SP Noel Arguelles has been shut down for the season to limit his IP.

A - Kane County: Cougars 4, Cedar Rapids 3 (10)

RF Beltre 3-5, RS -- .246
CF Pickett 3-4, RS, SB (4) -- .348
LF Fletcher 1-5, 2B (24), 2 RBI (50), 2 K -- .342
DH Eibner 1-5, 3 K -- .220

A. Cruz 4 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, 6 K, WP -- 2.71 ERA
J. Mitchell 4 2/3 IP, 6 H, 4 K -- W, 2-0, 2.04 ERA
Boruff IP, ER, H, K -- SV, 4, 2.06 ERA

* KC scored 2 late runs and then won it in 10. The Cougars had a runner gunned down at the plate to end the 1st and the Kernels scored 2 in the 5th off Antonio Cruz and Jason Mitchell. Brian Fletcher came through again, this time with a 2-run double in the 8th to tie it. A 2-run wild pitch in the 10th made it 4-2 Cougars. The Kernels got a run off Chase Boruff in the 10th before he ended it. KC is 28-20. Leondy Perez starts game 2 tomorrow.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Ogden 9, Chukars 4 (Fri.)

RF Davis 2-4, HR (5), RBI (27), K, RS, SB (6) -- .333
2B Piterson 2-5, 2B (7), RBI (10), K, RS -- .274
C Escobar 1-3, BB, HR (4), RBI (14), 2 K, RS, 2 E (9) -- .300
SS DelGuidice 1-4, K -- .250, IF debut

Moen 5 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, 2 BB, 4 K, 2 HRA, WP -- L, 2-4, 6.02 ERA
Jo. Sanchez 2 IP, 4 ER, 3 H, BB, 2 K -- 8.51 ERA
Fassold IP, ER, 3 H, 3 K -- 5.17 ERA

* The 4th-7th innings were pivotal as Ogden surged to the win. The Chukars got a Luis Piterson double in the 1st but Kellen Moen gave up a leadoff homer in the bottom of the inning. A double play scored a run in the 3rd for the Chukars but Moen allowed the tying run in the 3rd. A 2-run homer in the 5th gave Ogden the lead and Jose Sanchez gave up 4 runs in the 6th as the Raptors took a 8-2 lead. Edul Escobar hit a solo homer in the 8th for his 4th of the season and Runey Davis hit his 5th homer of the season to leadoff the 9th, but other than that the well was dry. IF dropped to 4-9. They took tonight's series finale but I'll get into that tomorrow. As seen above, IF Nick DelGuidice has gotten the promotion to the Pioneer League.

Rookie - Burlington: Danville 9, B-Royals 2

CF Adams 2-4, K, RS, SB (6) -- .297
2B Trapp 1-3, S, RBI (36), 2 K -- .283
SS Antonio 0-4, RBI (29), 2 E (18) -- .273

Baez 5 IP, 6 R (5 ER), 8 H, 3 BB, 5 K, HRA, 3 WP, E, pickoff -- L, 0-5, 7.94 ERA
Middendorf 2 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, BB, 4 K, HRA, WP -- 23.63 ERA
Hall 2 IP, 2 K -- 6.75 ERA

* Danville was too much for Burlington on Saturday. The Braves scored first in the 1st but the Royals matched the run on a Mike Antonio RBI groundout. Then it was 8 straight Danville runs from the 2nd thru the 6th off Angel Baez and David Middendorf. The Royals had 2 hits from the 2nd thru the 7th and a Justin Trapp RBI single in the 8th was the only other run producer they'd get. Burlington is 19-33. The Royals will try to avoid the sweep Sunday. P Tyler Graham got moved up to Wilmington.

Rookie - AZL: Royals 5, Brewers 4 (13)

SS Arteaga 3-7, 3B (2), RBI (22), 2 K, RS -- .249
LF Gore 3-6, RBI (16), K, SB (14) -- .375
2B Morales 3-6, 2B (6), RBI (22), CS (3) -- .376
DH Bello 2-4, HR, 2 RBI (12), RS -- .305
RF Blanco 2-6, K, 2 RS -- .292
CF Toney 2-7, 2 K, RS -- .321
C Gallagher 0-5, K -- .184
The Royals stranded 12.

Ogando 4 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, BB, 4 K -- 10.80 ERA
N. Blanco 2 IP, H, 2 K, pickoff -- 7.36 ERA
Stueve 4 IP, ER, 3 H, 5 K, 2 WP -- 2.11 ERA
Witt 3 IP, BB, 2 K, pickoff -- W, 3-2, 9.67 ERA

* The Royals made the long climb back from a 3-0 deficit to win in 13 Saturday. The Royals ran into a couple outs in the 1st and the Brewers got 2 triples off Cesar Ogando in a 3-run 1st. The Royals left the bases loaded in the 2nd but Rainier Bello whacked a 2-run homer in the 4th for his 1st of the season. Humberto Arteaga tripled and scored on an Adrian Morales single in the 7th. The Brewers found their offense again in the 8th but it was an Andrew Stueve wild pitch that scored the go-ahead run. The Royals wouldn't die tho as Arteaga singled in the tying run in the 9th. Terrance Gore came thru with the RBI single in the 13th and Christian Witt was lockdown in extras for his 3rd pro win. The Royals are 17-26.

Royals on the Farm 8/12

2011-08-12T21:30:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Salt Lake 6, Storm Chasers 2

1B Robinson 2-3, BB, 2B (29), RS -- .315
SS Y. Navarro 2-4, K -- .217
RF Dyson 2-4, BB, K, SB (32) -- .285
C Pina 1-2, 2 BB, 2B (9), RBI (17), K -- .244
2B Falu 0-2, BB, SF, RBI (31) -- .276
CF Cain 1-4, 3B (7), 2 K, assist at home -- .311
LF Lough 0-4, BB, assist at second -- .310

Suppan 6 IP, 5 ER, 10 H, 3 BB, 6 K, HRA -- L, 11-6, 4.64 ERA
Tejeda IP, ER, H, HRA -- 3.58 ERA
Lebron IP, K -- 0.00 ERA

* The Bees lit up Jeff Suppan to bring home the series opener Friday. Salt Lake scored 3 in the 2nd. Omaha stranded the bases full in the 3rd and Manny Pina took a bases-loaded walk before an Irving Falu sac fly trimmed it to 3-2 in the 4th. That was as close as Omaha would get as Suppan allowed single runs in the 4th and 5th and Robinson Tejeda allowed a run in the 7th. Omaha is 65-54. Game 2 is Saturday. Luis Mendoza will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 2, Frisco 0 (3-hitter)

3B R. Navarro 2-3, RS, SB (5), CS (2) -- .296
LF Francis 0-2, SF, RBI (24) -- .266
RF Myers 1-4, 2 K -- .249
SS Colon 0-4 -- .248

Odorizzi 6 1/3 IP, 3 H, 2 BB, 2 K -- W, 4-2, 4.57 ERA
Ed. Garcia 2 2/3 IP, 2 K -- SV, 3, 3.54 ERA

* The Naturals got a good start from Jake Odorizzi and shut down the RoughRiders. Nick Francis hit a sac fly in the 2nd and an error scored another run in the 5th to make it 2-0 Nats. Odorizzi stranded 2 in the 5th but that was NWA's closest call. The Naturals are 24-23. A 3-game set at the Midland RockHounds (27-20, AA A's) starts Saturday. Will Smith starts.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 9, Lynchburg 3

RF Van Stratten 3-4, HBP, 2B (8), 3 RBI (21), RS, SB (8) -- .293
1B Stovall 2-5, RBI (12), RS -- .245
2B Merrifield 2-4, BB, 3B (2), 2 RS -- .263
CF Prades 1-4, HR (4), RBI (17), RS, CS (4) -- .296
C Bonilla 1-1, 3 BB, HR (3), RBI (28), RS, E (8), PB (9) -- .212
3B Whittleman 0-3, BB, SF, RBI (59), K, E (19) -- .235
LF Ferguson 0-3, SF, RBI (36), K -- .225
DH Testa 1-3, BB, HBP, 2 RS, SB (14) -- .262

Sample 6 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 7 H, 2 BB, 2 WP -- W, 7-10, 5.48 ERA
Keck 3 IP, BB, K -- SV, 2, 4.02 ERA

* The Rocks started strong and held on to win. Lynchburg got a run off Tyler Sample in the 1st but the Rocks scored 4 in their half as Whit Merrifield led off with a triple and scored on a Nick Van Stratten double, John Whittleman hit a sac fly, Ryan Stovall hit an RBI groundout and Yem Prades cranked a 2-run homer for his 4th of the season. A Van Stratten single scored 2 in the 4th thanks also to a Hillcat error, and Tim Ferguson added a sac fly in the 5th to make it 7-1 Rocks. Sample appeared to tire some in the 6th as the Hillcats scored 2. Van Stratten singled in another run in the 6th and Jose Bonilla hit a solo homer in the 7th for his 3rd of the season. The Rocks are 18-29. Game 3 is Saturday. Justin Marks will start.

A - Kane County: Peoria 7, Cougars 2

LF Fletcher 2-4, HR (11), RBI (48), K, RS -- .345
RF Beltre 2-4, RBI (30), K, SB (15) -- .241
CF Eibner 1-4, 2 K -- .221
3B Cuthbert 1-3, BB, E (7) -- .305

Adam 5 1/3 IP, 4 R (1 ER), 5 H, 3 K, WP -- L, 5-7, 4.23 ERA
C. White 2/3 IP, ER, 3 H -- 6.52 ERA
Rogers 3 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 2 K, 2 HRA -- 2.57 ERA

* The 6th inning was the key in Friday's Peoria win. The Chiefs had scored a run in the 3rd off Jason Adam but Geulin Beltre had tied it with an RBI single in the 5th. Two errors in the 6th helped do in the Cougars as Adam was pulled with a run in and 2 on. Cole White allowed 3 more runs to make it 5-1 Chiefs. Brian Fletcher led off the 6th with his 11th homer but the Chiefs got a solo homer in the 8th. KC left the bases loaded in the 8th and Peoria got an insurance solo homer in the 9th. KC is 27-20 and 3 games up on the second half division lead. A 3-game road set at the Cedar Rapids Kernels (20-27, A Angels) starts Saturday with Antonio Cruz starting.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Casper 7, Chukars 5 (Thu.)

DH Moreno 2-3, BB, 2 2B (12), RBI (24), RS -- .283
3B Threlkeld 1-4, HR (2), 3 RBI (22), 2 K, RS -- .276
LF Fradejas 1-3, BB, HR (2), RBI (6), 2 K, RS -- .277

B. Martin 5 IP, 7 R (6 ER), 11 H, BB, 9 K, HRA, E -- L, 2-5, 5.02 ERA
Patton 3 IP, H, 8 K -- 3.68 ERA, nice relief outing
Penny IP, H, 2 K, WP -- 10.53 ERA

* Casper used a big 2nd to fuel the win Thursday. The Ghosts scored 6 that inning off Brennon Martin, mostly on singles, tho a 2-run homer factored in. Henry Moreno hit an RBI double and Mark Threlkeld ripped a 3-run homer in the 4th for his 2nd career shot. Casper got a run back in the 5th and a Justin Fradejas homer in the 9th (his 2nd) was all the Chukars got otherwise. IF was 4-8 going into tonight. Ogden won tonight's first of 2. I'll recap it tomorrow.

Rookie - Burlington: Danville 8, B-Royals 3

1B Hamblen 2-4 -- .102
2B Trapp 1-4, BB, 2B (12), RBI (35), K, RS -- .282
LF Howard 1-3, BB, HR (2), RBI (3), RS -- .163
SS Antonio 0-4, RBI (28), K -- .280

Murray 4 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, BB, 5 K -- 3.33 ERA
R. Brown 3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, BB, 2 K, HRA -- L, 1-2, 2.87 ERA
Pizziconi 2 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, BB -- 6.75 ERA

* It was all Braves from the 4th on as they raced past Burlington Friday. Anthony Howard put the Royals on top with a leadoff homer in the 3rd (his 2nd), with Justin Trapp adding an RBI double and Mike Antonio hit an RBI groundout to make it 3-0 Royals. Matt Murray gave up a 2-run triple in the 4th and, after the Royals stranded the bases full in the 4th, Rudy Brown gave up a 2-run homer in the 6th to make it 4-3 Braves. The Royals left 2 in scoring position in the 7th and Andrea Pizziconi allowed 4 runs in the 9th as Danville put it away. The first 2 Royals reached in the 9th but the rally was fruitless. Burlington is 19-32. Game 2 is Saturday. Angel Baez will start.

Rookie - AZL: Cubs 10, Royals 6

DH Gallagher 2-5, HR, 2 RBI (6), 2 K, 2 RS -- .212, first pro longball
RF Allen 2-4, 2B (4), RS, E (4) -- .233
2B Garcia 2-4, K, E (13) -- .294
SS Arteaga 1-5, 2B (7), RBI (21), RS -- .241
CF Gore 0-3, BB, RBI (15), SB (13), assist at third -- .364
LF Toney 1-5, 3B (3), 2 K, RS, assist at third -- .324

Lumpkins 3 IP, 3 R (1 ER), 3 H, BB, 4 K, WP -- 7.02 ERA
M. Morales 4 IP, 6 ER, 7 H, BB, K, HRA, WP -- L, 3-2, 6.25 ERA
F. Cruz 2 IP, ER, 2 H, 2 K, WP, E -- 11.40 ERA

* Cubs SS Gioskar Amaya drove in 6 runs to almost single-handedly take down the Royals Friday. He hit an RBI double in the 1st but the Royals answered with 3 runs in their half on a Cameron Gallagher RBI single and 2 run-scoring wild pitches. The Cubs scored on an error in the 2nd, then tied it in the 3rd. Jerrell Allen doubled and scored on a Terrance Gore forceout in the 4th but Amaya hit a 2-run double in the 5th to make it 5-4. The Cubs got to Max Morales for 4 runs in the 7th to stretch it to 9-4. D'Andre Toney hit a triple and scored on a Humberto Arteaga groundout, and the Royals' highlight was Gallagher leading off the bottom of the 8th with his 1st professional homer. The Cubs polished it off with a run in the 9th. The Royals are 16-26.

Royals on the Farm 8/11

2011-08-11T20:08:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: off day

* A 4-game set at the Salt Lake Bees (54-64, AAA Angels) starts Friday. Jeff Suppan starts.

AA - NW Arkansas: Frisco 7, Naturals 4

1B Seratelli 2-4, BB -- .284
2B R. Navarro 3-4, RS -- .288
RF Myers 2-4, K -- .249
C Eigsti 1-4, HR (2), 2 RBI (7), K, RS -- .364
3B Lisson 1-3, BB, RBI (41), K -- .262
SS Bianchi 1-4, SF, RBI (42), K -- .261

Dwyer 5 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, 3 BB, 3 K -- L, 6-10, 5.83 ERA
Chapman IP, 2 ER, 2 H, 2 K, HRA -- 3.72 ERA
Baumann 2 IP, ER, 3 H, K -- 4.10 ERA

* Chris Dwyer reverted to some of his 2011 struggles on Thursday as he picked up his 10th loss. He walked in 2 runs in the 1st, then gave up 2 more runs in the 4th to make it 4-0 RoughRiders. The Naturals had chances early on but squandered them until the 6th. Mario Lisson hit an RBI groundout that inning and Ryan Eigsti made up for a bases-loaded double play earlier by clubbing a 2-run homer (his 2nd) to cut it to 4-3. Kevin Chapman gave 2 runs right back on a 2-run homer in the 6th. Buddy Baumann's first appearance coming back from the DL saw Frisco score a run in the 7th. Jeff Bianchi hit a sac fly in the 9th but that was as close as the Naturals would get. NWA is 23-23. The series ends Friday. Jake Odorizzi will try to get back on the right track.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Lynchburg 4, Blue Rocks 1

LF Testa 2-4, RBI (30), 2 K, picked off -- .261
CF Prades 1-4 -- .297

E. Pimentel 5 IP, 4 ER, 8 H, 3 BB, 6 K -- L, 5-7, 3.77 ERA
Odenbach 3 IP, 2 H, 2 BB, 3 K -- 3.22 ERA
Volz IP, K -- 3.02 ERA

* Wilmington didn't do much offensively Thursday. Elisaul Pimentel allowed 2 runs in the 2nd and Carlo Testa singled in the Rocks' only run in the 3rd. Pimentel gave up 2 2-out runs in the 4th and the Rocks' only hits thereafter were thwarted by a pickoff and double play. Wilmington is 17-29. Game 2 is Friday. Tyler Sample will start.

A - Kane County: Peoria 9, Cougars 6 (11)

RF Beltre 3-6, RS, SB (14) -- .239
SS Calixte 2-4, BB, 2B (5), 2 RBI (27) -- .229
1B Kuebler 2-4, BB, 2B (14), RBI (23), RS -- .228
DH Franco 2-6, RS -- .246
LF Fletcher 2-5, RS -- .342
CF Eibner 1-5, RBI (26), 2 K, 2 RS, SB (2) -- .220
3B Cuthbert 0-4, SF, RBI (44), 2 K -- .305

Ventura 3 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 4 K -- 4.90 ERA
Giovenco 3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 3 K -- 5.14 ERA
Rivers 4 IP, ER, 3 H, 5 K, HRA, WP -- BS, 1, 0.93 ERA
Byrne IP, 3 ER, 3 H, 2 BB, K -- L, 3-3, 3.95 ERA

* A 6-4 Cougar lead didn't hold on Thursday. Peoria tallied 3 runs in the 1st and Mike Giovenco allowed an additional run in the 4th. Orlando Calixte drove in a run in the 4th and KC put something together in the 5th with 5 runs on a run-scoring error, Brett Eibner RBI single, Cheslor Cuthbert sac fly, Jake Kuebler RBI double and Calixte RBI single that made it 6-4 Cougars. Giovenco allowed a run in the 6th and Alex Rivers gave up a leadoff homer in the 7th to tie it. Rivers held the line from there but things went downhill when Chas Byrne took the mound in the 11th. The Chiefs scored 4 in the inning and Daniel Berlind pitched a perfect 11th to finish it. KC is 27-19. Jason Adam pitches the rubber match Friday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: The series with Casper ends tonight

* Report tomorrow.

Rookie - Burlington: B-Royals 6, Greeneville 2

SS Trapp 2-5, HR (6), 2 RBI (34), K, RS, 2 SB (21), picked off -- .283
C Shin 2-4, 2B (10), RBI (12), K, RS -- .234
CF Adams 2-5, 2 K, picked off -- .300
3B Bringas 2-3, BB, RS -- .237
DH Swab 1-3, BB, HR, 3 RBI (12), RS -- .241, first pro dinger
RF Jorge Bonifacio had an assist at second.

Cantrell 4 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 4 H, BB, 2 K -- 5.55 ERA
Gonzalez 3 IP, 2 H, BB, 2 K, E -- W, 1-1, 8.31 ERA, first pro win
Hall 2 IP, H, K -- SV, 1, 7.30 ERA

* Kenny Swab's first pro longball helped fuel Abel Gonzalez's first pro win on Thursday. Eric Cantrell allowed runs in the 2nd and 3rd but Swab turned it around with one swing of the bat as his 3-run homer in the 4th made it 3-2 Royals. Jin-Ho Shin singled in a run in the 8th and Justin Trapp hit a 2-run inside-the-park homer in the 9th (his 6th) to make it 6-2. The three Royal pitchers had only one 1-2-3 inning in the game but toughed out the win. Burlington is 19-31. A 3-game home set with the Danville Braves (27-23) starts Friday.

Rookie - AZL: off day

Royals on the Farm 8/10 -- Haiku!

2011-08-10T22:12:00.005-05:00

Kyle Davies is gone
Salvador Perez is in
Royals farm haiku

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 7, Fresno 6

DH Robinson 3-4, 2 2B (28), 2 RBI (77), RS -- .313
C Clark 2-3, BB, 2B (9), K, RS -- .284
1B Ka'aihue 1-4, HR (9), 3 RBI (55), 2 K, RS -- .286
RF Cain 1-3, HBP, HR (15), RBI (64), 2 RS -- .312
LF Lough 1-4, RS -- .313

Montgomery 6 IP, 5 ER, 8 H, 3 BB, 6 K, 2 HRA -- W, 5-7, 5.31 ERA
Chavez 2 IP, ER, 3 H, 2 K -- 3.24 ERA
Herrera IP, K -- SV, 2, 0.00 ERA

* Six run rally key
Montgomery not at best
Omaha earns split

Omaha is 65-53. The Chasers have Thursday off.

AA - NW Arkansas: Frisco 4, Naturals 3 (10)

1B Lisson 3-4, HR (12), 2 RBI (40), K, RS -- .261
3B R. Navarro 3-4, 2B (6), 2 RS -- .273
C Eigsti 0-2, SF, RBI (5) -- .379
2B Colon 0-5, E (16) -- .251
LF Myers 1-4, 2B (17), K -- .245

Jeffress 4 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 2 H, BB, 3 K, HRA, 2 WP, E (2) -- 4.12 ERA
Lafferty 2 IP, UER, H, 2 BB, 2 K, WP -- 3.12 ERA
Hardy 3 IP, 2 BB, 2 K, pickoff -- BS, 1, 1.42 ERA
Paulino 1/3 IP, ER, 2 BB, WP -- L, 2-3, 5.53 ERA

* Comeback goes for naught
Extra innings start road trip
Walk-off wild pitch

NWA is 23-22. Game 2 is Thursday. Buddy Baumann has been activated from the DL. Pitchers Patrick Keating and Henry Barrera have been sent to Arizona for rehab, and Barrera is having cartilage removed from his arm soon.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Winston-Salem 6, Blue Rocks 2 (7/G1)

1B Stovall 3-4 -- .245
3B Whittleman 2-4, HR (18), RBI (58), 2 RS -- .239
DH Prades 2-4, K -- .297
C Bonilla 1-3, RBI (27), K -- .211
2B Merrifield 0-4 -- .263
Wilmington stranded 10.

Melville 2 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 5 H, 4 BB, 5 K, E (2) -- L, 8-8, 4.56 ERA
Mariot 3 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 5 K, WP -- 3.54 ERA
Caldwell 1 1/3 IP, 2 K -- 0.00 ERA

* Melville takes eighth loss
Mariot struggles as well
Caldwell keeps on strong

Winston-Salem 2, Blue Rocks 0 (1-hitter, 7/G2)

CF Prades 1-3, K, SB (9) -- .298
2B Merrifield 0-3, 3 K -- .261
RF Nick Van Stratten had an assist at second.

Arguelles 5 IP, 2 H, 3 BB, 5 K -- 3.20 ERA
Dennick 2 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, K -- L, 2-5, 3.83 ERA

* Rocks cannot buy hit
Arguelles goes five strong frames
Twinbill sweet for Dash

The Rocks are 17-28. A 4-game home set with the Lynchburg Hillcats (19-26, A-Adv. Braves) starts Thursday. Elisaul Pimentel will start. IF Gerard Hall got his abrupt release after hitting .255 in 32 games with the Rocks. IF Mike Liberto got the call up from Idaho Falls.

A - Kane County: Cougars 6, Peoria 0 (4-hitter)

LF Fletcher 3-4, 2B (23), 2 RS -- .341
3B Cuthbert 2-4, 2 2B (12), 3 RBI (43) -- .310
CF Eibner 2-4, 2B (11), RBI (25), K, RS -- .220
C David 2-4, 3 RS -- .236
SS Calixte 2-4 -- .223

Billo 6 IP, H, 3 K -- W, 9-2, 1.40 ERA
A. Cruz IP, 2 H, 2 K -- 2.64 ERA
Boruff 2 IP, H, 2 K -- 1.94 ERA

* Billo proves me wise
One hit as ERA shrinks
Cougar bats ready

KC is 27-18. Yordano Ventura pitches game 2 Thursday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 6, Casper 0 (Tue.)

RF Davis 3-4, 2B (10), K -- .328
1B Moreno 2-4, HR (6), 2 RBI (23), K, 2 RS -- .270
DH Mateo 1-4, RBI (22), K, RS -- .293
SS Martinez 1-4, RBI (9), K -- .234
LF Chism 0-3, BB, SF, RBI (27), K -- .272
2B Piterson 0-5, RBI (9) -- .267

Brooks 5 2/3 IP, 6 H, BB, 10 K -- W, 4-1, 3.60 ERA
N. Johnson 3 1/3 IP, 2 H, BB, 4 K, 3 WP -- SV, 1, 3.94 ERA

* Brooks misses Ghost bats
Chukars crank out ten base hits
A shutout win at home

Chukars 6, Casper 4

1B Espy 3-4, HR (5), 2 RBI (27), RS -- .287
RF Elder 2-3, BB, HR (2), 2 RBI (13), 2 RS -- .306
3B Mateo 2-4, K, RS -- .299
DH Moreno 2-4, 2B (10), RS -- .276
LF Sandford 1-4, RBI (15), K, CS (5) -- .243

Peacock 5 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, 2 BB, 7 K, HRA -- W, 3-4, 4.09 ERA
Cuevas 2 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, 2 K, HRA -- 5.17 ERA
Carl 2 IP, ER, 2 H, 6 K, WP -- SV, 3, 1.52 ERA

* Peacock earns the win
K machine Carl ends it strong
Chukars don't fear Ghosts

Idaho Falls is 4-7. The series wraps Thursday.

Rookie - Burlington: Greeneville 5, B-Royals 0

C Shin 2-3, BB, 2B (9), 2 E (5) -- .225
RF Bonifacio 2-4, K, CS (6) -- .298
3B Bringas 1-3 -- .228

Graffeo 5 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 5 H, BB, K, HRA -- L, 3-2, 1.77 ERA
Ferguson 3 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, BB, 4 K -- 6.66 ERA

* Royals are silenced
No runner passes second
Astros even set

Burlington is 18-31. The rubber match is Thursday.

Rookie - AZL: Angels 11, Royals 10

SS Arteaga 3-5, HBP, 2 2B (6), 3B, 2 RBI (20), K, RS -- .242
DH Morales 3-5, BB, 2 RBI (21) -- .387
1B Gaylord 2-5, 2B (6), HR (4), 2 RBI (22), 2 RS -- .215
LF Gore 2-4, HBP, 3B (2), RBI (14), K, 2 RS, SB (12) -- .381
RF Blanco 2-5, RS -- .290
3B Cuckovich 1-5, RBI (11), 2 K -- .295
C Gallagher 1-5, BB, K, RS -- .179

A. Williams 4 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 6 K, HRA -- 4.66 ERA
S. Rosario 2 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 3 H, 2 BB, 5 K, HRA -- 7.23 ERA
Edelbrock 2 1/3 IP, 5 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, K, WP -- BS, 1, L, 0-2, 14.73 ERA

* Six run lead goes "poof"
Angels cross plate nine times late
Halos devilish

The Royals are 16-25. They have Thursday off.

Royals on the Farm 8/9

2011-08-09T20:08:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Fresno 4, Storm Chasers 3 (10)

1B Robinson 3-5, 2 2B (26), 2 RBI (75), K -- .308
RF Dyson 3-5, 3B, K, RS, SB (31), assist at third -- .286
CF Cain 2-5, 2B (24), RS -- .311
SS Y. Navarro 2-5, CS -- .188
2B Falu 2-5 -- .278
LF Lough 1-5, RBI (58), RS -- .314
Omaha strands 11.

Mazzaro 7 IP, 3 ER, 8 H, 3 BB, 5 K, HRA -- 4.95 ERA
Pucetas 2 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, 2 K -- L, 5-6, 5.26 ERA
Sisk IP, BB, K -- 1.25 ERA

* Omaha made an 8th inning comeback but lost it in the 10th. Vin Mazzaro worked out of jams in the 1st and 2nd. Fresno got to him for 3 runs in the 4th and the Royals couldn't buy a run. Jarrod Dyson led off the 8th with a triple and David Lough finally broke the ice with an RBI single. Clint Robinson stepped up with a 2-run double to tie the game, but the Chasers would strand 2. They then left the bases loaded in the 9th. Brandon Sisk allowed a run in the 10th and Omaha went down in order in the bottom of the inning. Omaha is 64-53. The series ends with a Wednesday matinee.

AA - NW Arkansas: off day

* A 3-game set at the Frisco RoughRiders (22-22, AA Rangers) starts Wednesday. Jeremy Jeffress will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: rainout

* The Rocks and Dash will play a doubleheader Wednesday.

A - Kane County: Cougars 1, Wisconsin 0 (7/G1)

CF Eibner 2-3, 2 2B (10), RBI (24) -- .218
LF Fletcher 0-3, K -- .339
3B Cuthbert 0-2, BB, K, E (6) -- .311

L. Perez 6 IP, 4 H, BB, 2 K, 2 pickoffs -- W, 5-11, 3.37 ERA, starting to get some breaks
Rogers IP, H, K -- SV, 5, 2.00 ERA

* Leondy Perez pitched the Cougars to a shutout win in the opener of a twinbill. Brett Eibner hit an RBI double in the 1st. The Rattlers stranded 2 in the 2nd and Perez left 'em loaded in the 4th. Nick Rogers had runners at the corners with 1 out in the 9th when C Kevin David came up with a big pickoff at third to help thwart the threat.

Wisconsin 5, Cougars 0 (1-hitter, 7/G2)

1B Kuebler 1-2, K -- .227
DH Eibner 0-3 -- .214
LF Fletcher 0-3 -- .335
3B Cuthbert 0-3 -- .307

Garrido 4 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, 2 K -- L, 1-4, 6.04 ERA
C. White IP, ER, H, 2 BB, K -- 6.00 ERA
Mitchell 2 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, BB, K -- 2.77 ERA

* The tables were turned in the nightcap as two Rattler pitchers 1-hit the Cougars. Wisconsin manufactured 2 runs in the 1st off Santiago Garrido and KC's best chance came when they stranded 2 in the 2nd. The last 16 Cougars went down in order as they didn't have a baserunner after the 2nd. KC is 26-18. A 3-game home set with the Peoria Chiefs (18-25, A Cubs) starts Wednesday. Greg Billo will start.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Casper 11, Chukars 6

DH Threlkeld 2-3, SF, 3 RBI (19), K -- .275
1B Espy 2-4, RBI (25), K, E (9) -- .276
2B Piterson 2-4, SF, RBI (8), K, 2 RS -- .286
CF Chism 1-5, 3B (2), RBI (26), K, 2 RS -- .277
3B Mateo 2-5, K, RS, E (9) -- .295

Avinazar 3 IP, 5 R (3 ER), 4 H, 3 BB, 4 K, HRA, WP -- L, 0-2, 10.80 ERA
Dooley 3 1/3 IP, 5 ER, 2 H, 5 BB, 4 K, 2 WP -- 7.92 ERA, liiiiiiiiiittle wild
Fassold 1 2/3 IP, ER, 2 H, 3 K, 3 WP -- 4.91 ERA

* Casper put up 11 runs on only 8 hits to steam past the Chukars. Richard Espy hit an RBI single in the 1st and the Ghosts answered with 4 runs off Willian Avinazar. Casper added 1 in the 3rd and 2 in the 4th to stretch it to 7-1. Mark Threlkeld hit a 2-run single in the 6th but Casper scored 4 again in the 7th off Jonathan Dooley and Cody Fassold. Threlkeld hit a sac fly in the 8th and IF added 2 meaningless runs in the 9th on a Tyler Chism RBI triple and Luis Piterson sac fly. IF is 2-7. A 3-game home set with Casper (8-1) starts tonight.

Rookie - Burlington: B-Royals 8, Greeneville 5

RF Bonifacio 3-5, 2B (12), HR (5), 3 RBI (21), 2 RS -- .293
C Swab 3-3, 2B (3), 3 RBI (9), RS -- .237
2B Trapp 3-6, RBI (32), RS, CS (4), E (17) -- .279
DH Watts 1-5, RBI (37), 4 K -- .263
CF Adams 2-4, 2 BB, 2 K, 2 RS -- .295
SS Antonio 0-5, K -- .288
The Royals stranded 12.

Ridings 4 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, BB, 3 K -- 3.16 ERA
Culver 2 1/3 IP, ER, H, 4 K, 2 WP -- W, 2-2, 6.83 ERA
R. Brown 2 IP, 3 K -- SV, 2, 2.54 ERA

* The Royals went to work from the 2nd through the 6th. Kenny Swab singled in a run in the 2nd and the 'Stros tied it off Matt Ridings in the 2nd. Murray Watts singled in a run in the 3rd and Swab hit an RBI double before Justin Trapp hit an RBI single to make it 4-1 in the 4th. Jorge Bonifacio went deep for his 5th homer in the 5th and Swab hit another RBI single to make it 6-1. Ridings allowed 3 runs in the 5th before getting pulled. Bonifacio hit a 2-run double in the 6th and Malcom Culver allowed a run in the 7th but combined with Rudy Brown to shut the door. Brown struck out the side in the 9th. Burlington is 18-30. Game 2 is Wednesday.

Rookie - AZL: Giants 16, Royals 14 (10)

2B Garcia 4-5, BB, 3 RBI (19), K, 3 RS, CS (3) -- .300
3B Morales 3-5, BB, 2B (5), 5 RBI (19), K, RS -- .371
LF Allen 3-6, 3B (2), 2 RBI (10), 2 RS -- .232
SS Arteaga 2-3, RBI (18) -- .231
DH Bello 2-5, BB, 2 2B (4), RBI (10), K, RS -- .295
CF Gore 2-5, S, K, 2 RS -- .373
1B Gaylord 1-6, RBI (20), K, 2 RS -- .209
PH-SS DelGuidice 1-2, BB, E (7) -- .408
The Royals stranded 10.

E. Diaz 4 1/3 IP, 5 R (4 ER), 4 H, 3 BB, 3 K, 2 HRA, 2 E (5) -- 6.40 ERA
Witt 1 1/3 IP, 8 ER, 8 H, BB, 2 HRA, WP -- 11.17 ERA
Edelen 3 1/3 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, 5 K, E -- 7.83 ERA
Stueve IP, 2 UER, H, BB -- L, 1-3, 2.10 ERA

* Three rallies of 4 or more runs weren't enough for the Royals Tuesday as the Giants salvaged a win in the 10th. The Royals made nothing of a bases-loaded, 0-out situation in the 1st and the Giants scored single runs in the 2nd and 4th off Eric Diaz to take a 2-0 lead. The Royals put together the first big rally of the game in the 4th as an error scored a run on a Travis Lane single, Jerrell Allen hit a 2-run triple, Brian Gaylord hit an RBI fielder's choice, Carlos Garcia hit an RBI single and Humberto Arteaga singled in a run to make it 6-2 Royals. Diaz served up a solo homer in the 5th and had 2 on with 1 out when Christian Witt came in and gave up 4 runs on a sac fly and 2 doubles to make it 7-6 Giants. More dark clouds appeared in the 6th as 2 2-run homers were part of a 6-run rally off Witt that made it 13-6 Gigantes. The Royals loaded the bases with 0 out again in the 6th and Adrian Morales cleared the bases with a double and Rainier Bello added an RBI double to cut it to 13-10. Brian Edelen gave up a run in the 7th and the Giants took a 14-10 lead into the 9th. This time the Royals loaded the bases with 1 out and Garcia singled in 2 runs before Morales did the same to tie the game. With the bases loaded and 1 out, the Royals were poised to get a walkoff win, but Nick Cuckovich hit into an inning-ending double play. Andrew Stueve loaded the bases with 1 out in the 10th and a sac fly ended up scoring 2 runs before the Royals got the final out on the play. The Royals stranded 1 in the 10th. The Royals are 16-24.

Royals on the Farm 8/8

2011-08-08T19:49:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 4, Fresno 2

3B Arias 2-3, 2B (7), 3B (3), RBI (14), RS, E (9) -- .226
C Perez 2-4, 2B (5), RS -- .333
CF Cain 1-3, HBP, RBI (63) -- .310
LF Lough 1-3, BB, 2B (25), RBI (57), RS -- .315
RF Dyson 1-4, 2B (9), RBI (16), RS -- .279
1B Robinson 1-4, K -- .305

O'Sullivan 7 IP, 2 ER, 9 H, BB, 4 K, HRA, WP -- W, 5-2, 3.22 ERA
Miner IP, K -- 1.46 ERA
Herrera IP, H, BB -- SV, 1, 0.00 ERA

* Sean O'Sullivan picked up his 5th win as the Chasers evened the series with the Grizzlies. Fresno got a solo homer in the 2nd but Jarrod Dyson and David Lough doubled in runs in the 3rd and Lorenzo Cain singled in a run to make it 3-1 Omaha. Fresno picked up a run in the 4th but Joaquin Arias tripled in a run in the 6th to make it 4-2. Kelvin Herrera stranded 2 in the 9th for his 1st AAA save. Omaha is 64-52. Game 3 is Tuesday. Vin Mazzaro will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Arkansas 2, Naturals 1 (10)

C Theriot 2-4, K, E (3) -- .253
1B Romak 1-4, HR (21), RBI (60), K, RS -- .265
SS Colon 1-4 -- .254
CF Myers 0-4 -- .245

W. Smith 8 IP, 4 H, BB, 6 K -- 4.25 ERA
Ed. Garcia 2 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 2 K -- BS, 1, L, 0-2, 4.08 ERA

* The Naturals squandered a good start from Will Smith as Edgar Garcia blew his 1st save. Run support was an issue for NW Arkansas as the Naturals stranded 2 in the 6th. Jamie Romak led off the 7th with his 21st homer and Smith handed that 1-0 lead to Garcia in the 9th. He got the first 2 outs without issue but loaded the bases and walked in the tying run. He had the 2-out blues again in the 10th as an RBI double made it 2-1 Arkansas. The Naturals got 2 on with 2 out in the 10th but Derrick Robinson hit into a game-ending forceout. NWA is 23-21. The Nats have Tuesday off.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 3, Winston-Salem 1

LF Testa 2-4, HR (3), 2 RBI (29), K, RS -- .260
RF Van Stratten 1-4, RBI (18) -- .287
2B Merrifield 1-2, BB, S, RS, CS (13) -- .266
C Jul. Rodriguez 0-3, 2 K -- .290

Marks 5 2/3 IP, 3 H, 3 BB, 8 K -- W, 7-8, 4.44 ERA
Keck 2 1/3 IP, ER, 3 H, BB, 4 K -- 4.97 ERA
Paukovits IP, K -- SV, 5, 3.80 ERA

* Justin Marks led the Rocks to a series-opening win over the Dash. Carlo Testa started it quickly with a 2-run homer in the bottom of the 1st for his 3rd of the season. The Rocks stranded 2 in the 4th but got a Nick Van Stratten RBI single in the 5th. Jon Keck came in and stranded the bases full in the 6th but allowed a run in the 7th. He and Bryan Paukovits retired the last 8 in order. The Rocks are 17-26. Tim Melville starts game 2 Tuesday.

A - Kane County: rainout

* The game will be made up as part of a Tuesday twinbill with Wisconsin.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: The road trip at Casper ends tonight

* Report tomorrow.

Rookie - Burlington: Kingsport 10, B-Royals 5

SS Antonio 2-5, HR (7), RBI (27), RS, SB (10), E (16) -- .297
DH Shin 1-4, HBP, 2B (8), 2 RBI (11), SB -- .216
C Dyer 1-4, BB, 2B (4), RBI (9) -- .273
CF Adams 1-5, 3B (3), RBI (12), 2 K, RS -- .287
2B Trapp 1-5, K, 3 E (16) -- .272
The Royals stranded 12.

A. Baez 3 IP, 5 R (4 ER), 5 H, 4 K -- L, 0-4, 7.76 ERA
Pizziconi 3 2/3 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 5 H, 2 BB, K -- 5.93 ERA
Graham 2 1/3 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 3 H, 2 K, WP -- 3.09 ERA

* The Mets scored in 7 of the 9 innings to get the three-game sweep of the Royals. Angel Baez got tagged for 4 runs in the 1st and another run in the 3rd. Lane Adams hit an RBI triple in the 3rd and Jin-Ho Shin hit a 2-run double to cut it to 5-3. Andrea Pizziconi allowed a run in the 4th but Jared Dyer doubled in a run in the bottom of the inning to keep the lead at 2. The Mets added another run in the 5th, and the Royals left 'em loaded that inning. Mike Antonio went solo in the 6th for his 7th homer of the season. Pizziconi allowed one more run before getting pulled in the 7th and Tyler Graham allowed a run in each of the last 2 innings to make it 10-5. The Royals are 17-30. A 3-game set at the Greeneville Astros (19-27) starts Tuesday. Matt Ridings was named Appalachian League Pitcher of the Week on Monday after allowing a run in his last 12 IP, with 13 Ks.

Rookie - AZL: Rangers 4, Royals 3

2B DelGuidice 2-4, 2B (16) -- .407
LF Allen 1-4, RBI (8), K -- .217
SS Cuckovich 0-4, RBI (10), K, 2 E (7) -- .309
CF Toney 1-4, RBI (21), RS -- .323
DH Gallagher 1-4, K -- .174

Ogando 3 IP, 2 BB, K -- 11.72 ERA, one of his best pro outings
N. Blanco IP, BB -- 16.20 ERA
Jon. Rodriguez 2 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, BB, HRA -- 4.91 ERA
F. Cruz 2/3 IP, 2 UER, H, 2 BB -- L, 1-3, 12.46 ERA
Edelbrock 1 1/3 IP, H, 2 K -- 12.60 ERA

* All the runs came from the 6th on and the Rangers emerged on top. The Royals struck first in the top of the 6th with a D'Andre Toney RBI single after a Brian Gaylord leadoff triple, and a Nick Cuckovich RBI groundout. Jonathan Rodriguez gave up a 2-run homer in the 6th, and two errors by Cuckovich in the 7th helped the Rangers grab a 4-2 lead. Jerrell Allen hit an RBI single in the 9th but Nick DelGuidice was thrown out at the plate on the play and the Royals stranded runners at the corners. The Royals are 16-23.

Royals on the Farm 8/7

2011-08-07T15:43:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 7, Sacramento 5 (Sat.)

C S. Perez 3-4, 2 2B (4), 3 RBI (10), RS -- .325
LF Lough 2-4, RBI (54), 2 K, RS, OF assist at third -- .316
RF Cain 1-4, HR (14), 2 RBI (61), RS -- .313
2B Falu 0-3, S, RBI (30) -- .280
1B Robinson 1-3, BB, K, RS -- .306
SS Y. Navarro 1-3, BB, 2 RS -- .333, Omaha debut
CF Jarrod Dyson had an assist at third.

Suppan 5 IP, 4 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 3 K, HRA -- W, 11-5, 4.52 ERA
Pucetas 2 IP, ER, 4 H, K -- 5.28 ERA
Herrera 2/3 IP, H, BB, 2 K -- 0.00 ERA
Sisk 1 1/3 IP, BB, K -- SV, 2, 1.31 ERA

* Omaha outlasted the rain and the RiverCats to win the series finale Saturday. Jeff Suppan gave up 4 runs in the 2nd but Salvador Perez doubled in a run and Irving Falu hit an RBI groundout to cut the lead in half in the bottom of the inning. Lorenzo Cain went deep for his 14th homer of the season to tie it in the 3rd and Perez came through with a 2-run go-ahead double. Sacramento got a run in the 7th but David Lough hit an RBI single in the bottom of the frame to keep the 2-run lead intact. After some late rain delays, Brandon Sisk came in to strand the bases loaded in the 8th and then pitched a scoreless 9th to pick up his 2nd save.

Fresno 7, Storm Chasers 3

LF Lough 1-4, 2 RBI (56), SB (13), OF assist at home -- .315
RF Cain 0-4, RBI (62), K -- .310
1B Robinson 1-4, E (6) -- .305
SS Y. Navarro 0-4 -- .143
C Perez 1-4, 3 K -- .318

Mendoza 3 IP, 6 UER, 6 H, 2 BB, 3 K, WP, E -- L, 8-5, 2.26 ERA
Tejeda 3 IP, ER, 3 H, 2 BB, 5 K, HRA -- 3.44 ERA
Lebron 3 IP, 3 H, BB, 5 K -- 0.00 ERA, Omaha debut

* A 6-run 2nd led Fresno past Omaha Sunday. Luis Mendoza and Clint Robinson committed errors in the 2nd and Fresno capitalized for 6 runs on 4 hits, a walk and hit batsman. David Lough ended the rally by helping gun down a runner at the plate, then came up in the 3rd and hit a 2-run single. Lorenzo Cain added an RBI groundout to cut the lead in half to 6-3. Robinson Tejeda gave up a solo shot in the 4th and Omaha stranded 2 in the 6th. The last 10 Chasers went down. Omaha is 63-52. Game 2 is Monday. Sean O'Sullivan will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 8, Arkansas 5

LF Francis 2-3, S, HR (3), 3 RBI (23) -- .273
1B Seratelli 2-5, 2B (9), 2 RBI (50), 2 K, RS -- .278
CF Robinson 2-5, RBI (19), 2 SB (43) -- .258
SS Colon 2-4, S, RS -- .254
3B Lisson 1-4, RBI (38), K, RS, SB (11) -- .252
C Theriot 1-3, BB, RBI (16), 2 K -- .242
RF Myers 1-2, 2 BB, 2B (16), K, 2 RS -- .249
NWA stranded 10.

M. Santiago 5 1/3 IP, 5 ER, 6 H, BB, 3 K, HRA -- 2.31 ERA
Dobies 2/3 IP, H, K -- 7.20 ERA
Hardy 3 IP, H, BB, 2 K, WP -- SV, 4, 1.61 ERA

* The Naturals came back from down 3 runs to get the win Sunday. Mario Lisson hit an RBI groundout in the 2nd but the Travelers tied it in the 4th. Wil Myers doubled and scored on a Ben Theriot single in the 4th. Mario Santiago gave up a 3-run homer in the 5th and Andrew Dobies gave up an RBI double in the 6th to make it 5-2. Nick Francis hit a 2-run homer (his 3rd) in the 6th, Derrick Robinson hit an RBI single, Anthony Seratelli hit a 2-run single and Francis came back up and singled in another run to make it 8-5 NWA. Blaine Hardy brought it home from there. NW Arkansas is 23-20. The series ends Monday. Will Smith will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Lynchburg 6, Blue Rocks 1

C Jul. Rodriguez 2-4 -- .321
3B Whittleman 1-4, RBI (57), K, E (18) -- .238
CF Merrifield 1-4, OF assist at third -- .264
RF Testa 1-4, K, RS, SB (13) -- .257

Sample 5 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 4 BB, 5 K -- L, 6-10, 5.63 ERA
Caldwell 2 IP, UER, 3 H, K -- 0.00 ERA
Mariot IP, 3 ER, 4 H, 2 K, HRA -- 3.45 ERA

* Lynchburg pummeled Rocks pitching for 12 hits in the easy win. John Whittleman hit an RBI single in the 1st and Tyler Sample stranded the bases full in his first inning of work. The Rocks left the bases loaded in the 4th and Lynchburg finally got it tied off Sample in the 4th. Allen Caldwell came in with 2 on and 0 out in the 6th and the Hillcats scored the go-ahead run to make it 2-1. The Rocks offense sputtered and Lynchburg scored again in the 7th, then plated 3 in the 8th. The Rocks stranded 2 in the 9th. Wilmington is 16-26. A 3-game home set with the Winston-Salem Dash (24-17, A-Adv. White Sox) starts Monday. Justin Marks will start.

A - Kane County: Wisconsin 7, Cougars 6

LF Fletcher 3-5, HR (10), 3 RBI (47), K, RS, E (6) -- .343
DH Pickett 3-4, 3B (2), RBI (2), K, 2 RS, SB (2), CS (2) -- .361
2B Franco 2-4, S, RBI (19), RS -- .248
CF Beltre 0-3, BB, S, RBI (29), RS, SB (13), E (8) -- .235

Adam 5 IP, UER, 2 H, 2 BB, 2 K -- 4.39 ERA
Giovenco 2/3 IP, 5 R (1 ER), 3 H, 2 BB -- BS, 1, L, 0-1, 4.91 ERA
Rivers 3 1/3 IP, UER, 4 H, 2 K -- 0.00 ERA

* A 5-1 Cougar lead fell apart in the 6th. Jason Adam walked 2 to allow a run without the benefit of a Rattler hit in the 1st. Kane County matched it on a Brian Fletcher RBI single in the 1st. The Cougars surged ahead in the 2nd on a Jovan Pickett RBI single and Angel Franco RBI single. Fletcher socked a 2-run homer in the 5th for his 10th of the season and Adam handed the 5-1 lead to Mike Giovenco in the 6th. Before the inning was done, the Rattlers scored 5 runs and Alex Rivers was in the game. Wisconsin scored another run in the 7th, and Pickett tripled and scored on a Geulin Beltre groundout to cut the lead back to 1. KC stranded 2 in the 8th and then left the tying run at second in the 9th. KC is 25-17. Game 3 is Monday as Leondy Perez starts.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Casper 7, Chukars 4 (Sat.)

DH Moreno 2-4, 2B (9), K -- .271
C Escobar 1-4, 2B (10), RBI (13), K, RS -- .321
RF Elder 1-4, 2B (6), RBI (11), 2 K, RS -- .311
1B Espy 1-4, RBI (24) -- .277, Eazy Es strike again
LF Chism 0-5, K -- .279

B. Martin 5 IP, 5 ER, 10 H, 5 K, 2 HRA, WP, pickoff -- L, 2-4, 4.47 ERA
Patton IP, 2 UER, 2 H, BB, 2 K, WP -- 4.10 ERA
Carl 2 IP, H, 5 K -- 1.25 ERA, keeping phenomenal K rate intact

* The Chukars couldn't recover from 5 early Ghosts runs. Richard Espy hit an RBI groundout in the 1st but Brennon Martin was gouged for 4 runs on a grand slam by 1B Harold Riggins in the inning. A solo homer in the 2nd made it 5-1 Casper. IF stranded 2 in the 6th and Casper tacked on 2 runs off Spencer Patton to make it 7-1. Edul Escobar hit an RBI double in the 7th and Chris Elder did the same before scoring on a double play to cut it to 7-4. The Chukars got runners in both of the last 2 innings but made nothing of them.

Casper 8, Chukars 2

C Jenkins 1-4, HR, 2 RBI (4), RS -- .278
3B Threlkeld 1-4, 3B (3), RS, 2 E (11) -- .267
CF Davis 1-4, 2B (9), 2 K -- .313

Moen 5 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 7 H, 2 BB, 3 K, 2 WP -- L, 2-3, 5.86 ERA
Penny 1 1/3 IP, 3 ER, 4 H -- 10.86 ERA
Jo. Sanchez 1 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, BB, 2 K -- 7.66 ERA

* Casper blew open a close game in the 7th. The Chukars stranded 2 in the 3rd, and Casper took the lead with 2 runs in the bottom of the inning before leaving the bases full. Casper scored again off Kellen Moen in the 4th to make it 3-0. Ryan Jenkins went solo in the 7th for his 1st of the season but Robert Penny and Jose Sanchez allowed 5 runs in the 7th to make it 8-1. Mark Threlkeld tripled and scored on a Jenkins groundout in the 9th but a miracle rally wasn't in the cards. IF is 2-6. The series ends Monday.

Rookie - Burlington: Kingsport 10, B-Royals 3

3B Bringas 3-4, 2B (5), RS, CS -- .226
CF Adams 1-4, HBP, 2B (7), 2 RBI (11) -- .292
2B Trapp 0-5, RBI (31), 2 K -- .274
SS Antonio 0-3, HBP, SB (9) -- .294

Murray 5 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 7 K, HRA -- L, 2-3, 3.22 ERA
Ferguson 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 2 H, 3 BB, 2 K, WP -- 6.75 ERA
A. Gonzalez 3 1/3 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, 2 HRA -- 10.80 ERA

* A 2-1 game in the middle innings turned into a Mets rout by game's end. Matt Murray followed up his 1-hit start with a decent outing, but gave up a 2-run homer in the 3rd to spot the Mets a 2-0 lead. Lane Adams took a bases-loaded hit by pitch in the 5th but Burlington left the bases full. Andrew Ferguson gave up 4 runs in the 6th and Abel Gonzalez came in to strand the bases full. Adams hit an RBI double in the 7th and Justin Trapp hit an RBI groundout to trim it to 6-3. Gonzalez gave up 2-run homers in the 8th and 9th and the Royals had no answer. Burlington is 17-29. The series ends with a Monday matinee.

Rookie - AZL: Royals 2, D-Backs 0

DH Lane 1-3, RBI (19), K, SB (2) -- .245
C Gallagher 0-3, SF, RBI (4), K -- .158
RF Blanco 1-3, 2B (8), RS -- .286
LF Toney 0-4 -- .326
3B Cuckovich 0-2, 2 BB, K, 2 CS (4), E (5) -- .325
CF Gore 0-2, BB, K -- .370

Baumann 3 IP, H, 4 K -- 3.86 ERA, rehab going well
Lumpkins 3 1/3 IP, 3 H, 3 BB, 4 K, WP -- W, 2-1, 7.42 ERA
M. Morales 2 2/3 IP, H, BB, 3 K -- SV, 1, 5.20 ERA

* The Royals made the most of only 2 hits as three pitchers combined to shut out the Diamondbacks. Jerico Blanco hit a ground-rule double in the 5th and scored on a Travis Lane single. Stephen Lumpkins got a double play to escape a bases-loaded jam in the 5th and Cam Gallagher hit a sac fly in the 9th to add a little insurance. Max Morales loaded the bases with 1 out in the 9th but, like Lumpkins before him, got a lineout double play to finish it. The Royals are 16-22.

Royals on the Farm 8/6 -- Volz gets first Rocks win

2011-08-06T21:18:00.004-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 7, Sacramento 5 (delayed in 7th)

* I'll recap this one on Sunday.

AA - NW Arkansas: Arkansas 9, Naturals 1

2B Bianchi 1-3, HR (2), RBI (41), RS -- .262
1B Seratelli 1-3, K -- .282, that's the team's only 2 hits
CF Robinson 0-4, 3 K -- .256
SS Colon 0-4 -- .251
DH Myers 0-3 -- .247
LF Nick Francis had an assist at home.

Odorizzi 4 2/3 IP, 6 ER, 7 H, 3 BB, 4 K, 2 HRA, WP -- L, 3-2, 5.31 ERA
Lafferty 2 1/3 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, 2 K, HRA, WP -- 4.05 ERA
Paulino IP, H, BB, K -- 5.40 ERA
Dobies IP, H, K -- 7.71 ERA

* Jake Odorizzi had a rough night on NWA's side and, on the other side, Arkansas SP Eddie McKiernan was one pitch away from a 1-hit shutout. Odorizzi got tagged for 3 runs in the 1st and Jeff Bianchi hit a solo homer in the bottom of the 1st for his 2nd of the season. McKiernan went on to retire 10 straight, allowed an Anthony Seratelli single, then retired the last 15. Odorizzi allowed a run in the 1st and then combined with Brendan Lafferty to allow 4 runs in the 5th. Arkansas scored an insurance run in the 6th. NWA is 22-20. Game 3 is Sunday with Mario Santiago starting.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 7, Lynchburg 4

2B Merrifield 2-4, S, 2B (26), RBI (31), 2 RS -- .265
CF Prades 2-5, 2B (14), RBI (16), 2 RS -- .293
RF Van Stratten 2-5, RBI (17), K, RS -- .297
DH Lewis 2-5, 2B (11), 3 K -- .220
SS Hall 2-4, 2 RS, E (11) -- .258
3B Whittleman 1-3, 2 BB, 2 RBI (56), K -- .238
LF Ferguson 1-5, 2B (10), 2 RBI (35), K -- .230
The Rocks stranded 10.

E. Pimentel 6 1/3 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, BB, 3 K, WP -- 3.62 ERA
Volz 2 2/3 IP, H, 3 K -- W, 3-3, 3.07 ERA

* Three late runs gave the Rocks and RP Kendal Volz the win on Saturday. The Rocks loaded the bases with 0 out in the 1st but only got 1 run on a John Whittleman RBI forceout. Lynchburg answered with 2 runs off Elisaul Pimentel. Pimentel settled down from there and the Rocks regained the lead with 3 runs in the 5th on a Nick Van Stratten RBI forceout and 2-run Tim Ferguson double. Pimentel allowed a run in the 6th and allowed the tying run in the 7th before Volz came in. Whit Merrifield and Yem Prades doubled in runs in the 8th and Whittleman singled in a run to make it 7-4 Rocks. Volz retired the last 5 Hillcats to pick up his 1st win as a Rock. Wilmington is 16-25. The series ends Sunday with Tyler Sample starting.

A - Kane County: Cougars 5, Wisconsin 2

1B Kuebler 3-4, RBI (22) -- .225
2B Espinal 2-3, 2 RBI (19), RS, 2 SB (13) -- .187
LF Fletcher 1-4, RBI (44), K -- .337
3B Franco 1-4, 3B (5), RBI (18), RS, 2 E (7) -- .245
CF Eibner 0-3, BB, 2 K, RS -- .210

Ventura 4 IP, 2 H, 5 K -- 4.70 ERA
A. Cruz 4 IP, UER, 2 H, 2 BB, 4 K, WP -- W, 3-6, 2.67 ERA
Byrne IP, ER, 2 H, BB -- 3.52 ERA

* A scoreless game in the 5th turned into a Cougar win late. Yowill Espinal broke the ice with a 2-run single in the 6th but Wisconsin scratched out a run on Antonio Cruz in the 7th. Angel Franco tripled in a run in the 8th and Brian Fletcher and Jake Kuebler added RBI singles to make it 5-1 KC. Chas Byrne allowed a run in the 9th but got a double play to end the game. KC is 25-16. Jason Adam pitches game 2 Sunday afternoon.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Casper is up, 5-1, in the middle innings tonight

* Report tomorrow.

Rookie - Burlington: Kingsport 5, B-Royals 1

2B J. Rodriguez 2-3, RS, 2 SB (12) -- .286
CF Adams 1-4, RBI (9), K, E (2) -- .293
SS Antonio 1-4, K, CS (5) -- .300
DH Trapp 0-2, 2 BB, SB (19) -- .282

Cantrell 3 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 5 H, 4 BB, K, WP -- L, 0-5, 5.97 ERA
Hall 2 1/3 IP, 2 H, 2 BB, 3 K -- 7.94 ERA
R. Brown 2 IP, UER, H, BB, 4 K, WP -- 2.73 ERA
Pizziconi IP, K -- 6.08 ERA

* The Mets got all the ammo they needed in the 1st as they took down the Royals. Eric Cantrell stumbled out of the gate as Kingsport scored 3 runs on 3 hits and a walk in the 1st. The Mets added a run in the 4th and the Royals left a runner at third twice early. Lane Adams drove in a run with a groundout in the 5th but the Royals would get no other runner farther than third. The Mets tacked on an insurance run in the 7th. Burlington is 17-28. Game 2 is Sunday.

Rookie - AZL: off day

Royals on the Farm 8/5 -- Long live the Giavotella era

2011-08-05T22:39:00.003-05:00

Yamaico Navarro gets demoted and, finally, it's Johnny Giavotella time in KC. AND, he goes 2-3 with a walk and double and his 1st major league SB and RBI. Good to start the report with some good news. Otherwise, it's gonna be brief.

AAA - Omaha: Sacramento 2, Storm Chasers 1

C Clark 2-3, 2B (8), RBI (10), K -- .287
3B Arias 2-4, K -- .226
LF Lough 1-3, HBP -- .314
RF Cain 0-4, K -- .314
1B Robinson 0-4 -- .306
DH Perez 1-4 -- .278

Montgomery 7 IP, 2 ER, 9 H, 2 BB, 6 K, HRA, pickoff -- L, 4-7, 5.20 ERA
Sisk IP, H, K -- 1.40 ERA
Pucetas IP, BB, K -- 5.29 ERA

* The Chasers couldn't catch the Cats on Friday. Mike Montgomery gave up runs in the 2nd and 5th Omaha stranded 2 in the 3rd. Cody Clark singled in a run in the 7th but Omaha left 2 in scoring position, and didn't get a runner on in either of the last 2 innings. Omaha is 62-51. The series ends Saturday. Jeff Suppan will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 6, Arkansas 2

RF Myers 2-4, HR (5), 3 RBI (34), 2 RS, SB (7) -- .250
LF Francis 2-3, BB, RBI (20), RS, SB (12), CS (4) -- .271
C Eigsti 2-2, BB, RBI (4), picked off -- .458
CF Orlando 2-4, RBI (14) -- .385
2B Colon 1-4, K, E (15) -- .254

Dwyer 6 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 4 H, 2 BB, 10 K, 2 WP -- W, 6-9, 5.77 ERA, turned it around of late
Ed. Garcia 3 IP, H, BB, 3 K -- SV, 2, 3.45 ERA

* Chris Dwyer tied the franchise record with 10 Ks and Wil Myers had the big hit in a Naturals win. Ryan Eigsti got the Naturals off 0 with an RBI single in the 2nd and Myers hit a 2-out, 3-run homer in the 3rd for his 5th of the season to make it 4-0 for Dwyer. Dwyer's only damage came on a 2-out RBI single and Christian Colon throwing error on the play that allowed another run to cross the plate. Paulo Orlando hit an RBI single in the 6th and Nick Francis singled in a run in the 8th. Edgar Garcia retired the last 7. NWA is 22-19. Game 2 is Saturday as Jake Odorizzi starts.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Lynchburg 9, Blue Rocks 4

C Bonilla 2-4, 2B (11), RBI (26), K, RS -- .210
2B Merrifield 2-4, HBP, 2 K, RS, CS (12) -- .262
DH Ferguson 2-4, K, RS -- .230
SS Hall 1-3, HBP, 2B (6), RBI (13), E (10) -- .247
RF Van Stratten 1-5, RBI (16), K -- .293
CF Yem Prades had an assist at third.

Arguelles 2 2/3 IP, 6 ER, 7 H, 4 BB, K -- L, 4-5, 3.36 ERA
Odenbach 3 1/3 IP, 3 ER, 3 H, BB, K, 2 HRA -- 3.51 ERA
Dennick 2 IP, H, 3 K -- 3.57 ERA

* Noel Arguelles had a rough night as the Hillcats took the series opener. Jose Bonilla hit an RBI single in the 2nd to give Arguelles a 1-0 lead but the Hillcats scored 3 in both the 2nd and 3rd to make Noel's outing a short one. Dusty Odenbach gave up a 2-run homer in the 4th to make it 8-1, then served up a solo homer in the 6th. Gerard Hall and Bonilla hit run-scoring doubles and Nick Van Stratten hit an RBI single in the 7th, but that was it. Wilmington is 15-25. Game 2 is Saturday as Elisaul Pimentel returns to his starting role.

A - Kane County: Beloit 4, Kane County 3 (12)

3B Franco 2-5, BB, 2 HR (3), 3 RBI (17), 2 RS -- .244
DH Pickett 3-5, RS -- .313
1B Kuebler 2-5, 2 K -- .217
CF Eibner 0-5, 2 K -- .214
2B Fletcher 1-5, 2 K -- .339

Billo 6 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, BB, 5 K, HRA -- 1.56 ERA
Rogers 2 IP, H, 2 BB, 2 K -- 2.12 ERA
Boruff 3 IP, ER, 3 H, 4 K, WP -- BS, 3, 2.01 ERA
Byrne 2/3 IP, ER, 2 H -- L, 3-2, 3.42 ERA

* The Cougars blew a 9th inning lead and lost it in 12 Friday. Angel Franco had a big night as he hit a 2-run homer in the 5th and, after the Snappers had tied it with runs off Greg Billo in the 5th and 6th, Franco led off the 8th with his 3rd homer of the season to make it 3-2 KC. Chase Boruff got the first 2 outs without ado in the 9th but a single, wild pitch and RBI single cost him his 3rd blown save. Chas Byrne gave up a 2-out walkoff double in the 12th to finish it. KC is 24-16. Friday was KC's first loss after leading in the 8th. A 4-game home set with the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (16-24, A Brewers) starts Saturday with Yordano Ventura pitching.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Casper 14, Chukars 2

CF Chism 3-5, K -- .289
2B Piterson 2-5 -- .270
DH Moreno 2-4 -- .264
RF Elder 2-4, RS -- .316
SS Martinez 2-4 -- .235
LF Davis 1-4, RBI (26), K, RS -- .315

Peacock 2 IP, 5 ER, 7 H, BB, K -- L, 2-4, 4.14 ERA
Cuevas 3 IP, 5 ER, 5 H, BB, 4 K, 3 WP -- 5.27 ERA
N. Johnson 3 IP, 4 R (3 ER), 5 H, BB, 2 K, 2 HRA, WP -- 4.97 ERA

* No Chukar pitcher was safe on the mound Friday as Casper put it away quick. The Ghosts scored 5 runs off Brian Peacock in the 2nd on nothing stronger than singles, then added 5 in the 3rd off Gary Cuevas. Nathan Johnson gave up 3 runs in the 6th and the Ghosts continued to pour it on with a run in the 7th. IF stranded 2 in the 4th but otherwise didn't pose much of a threat. They did score 2 in the 9th on a Runey Davis RBI single and a double play ball that scored a run as they spoiled the shutout. IF is 2-4. Game 2 is Saturday.

Rookie - Burlington: Pulaski 7, B-Royals 4

SS Antonio 3-5, 2B (7), RS, CS (4) -- .301
CF Adams 2-2, 2 BB, SF, 2B (6), HR (3), 3 RBI (8), RS -- .295
RF Bonifacio 2-4, HBP, SB (4), OF assist at home -- .292
LF Conner 2-4, 2 K -- .277
C Swab 1-5, RBI (6), K -- .214
2B Trapp 0-5, 2 K -- .286
The Royals stranded 12.

Graffeo 4 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, 2 K -- 1.51 ERA
Culver 2 IP, ER, H, 3 BB, pickoff -- 7.11 ERA
A. Gonzalez IP, 4 ER, 3 H, BB, 2 K -- L, 0-1, 10.80 ERA
Graham 2 IP, H, BB, 2 K, WP -- 3.03 ERA

* A 4-run 8th blew open a close game for the Mariners. Pulaski scored 2 in the 1st but Burlington had the answer as Lane Adams led off the 1st with his 3rd homer and Kenny Swab tied it with an RBI single. Adams gave the Royals the lead with an RBI double in the 4th but the Mariners tied it off Malcom Culver in the 5th. The Royals left the bases full in the 6th, then stranded 2 in the 7th. Abel Gonzalez and Tyler Graham faltered in the 8th as Pulaski scored 4 runs on 3 hits, a walk and wild pitch. Lane Adams hit a sac fly in the 8th but it was too little, too late. Burlington is 17-27. A 3-game home set with the Kingsport Mets (21-23) starts Saturday.

Rookie - AZL: Angels 5, Royals 4

2B DelGuidice 2-4, 2 2B (15), 2 RBI (24), RS -- .403, arguably the cream of the 2011 crop thus far
LF Allen 2-4, RBI (7), K, RS -- .216
3B Morales 2-4, K, RS -- .379
RF Blanco 0-1, BB, SF, RBI (20) -- .284
CF Toney 0-5, K -- .341
DH Gallagher 0-4 -- .188

S. Rosario 5 IP, ER, 3 H, BB, 7 K -- 6.19 ERA
A. Williams 3 IP, 2 ER, H, 3 BB, 2 K -- 4.68 ERA
Stueve 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, WP -- BS, 1, L, 1-2, 2.16 ERA

* The Royals let it slip away late versus the Halos. The Angels scored first in the 3rd but Nick DelGuidice hit a 2-out, 2-run double in the 4th and Jerrell Allen hit an RBI single to make it 3-1 Royals. Jerico Blanco hit a sac fly in the 7th and the Royals took a 4-1 lead into the 8th. The Angels scored a run in the 8th off Ali Williams but Williams was pulled after a leadoff walk in the 9th. Andrew Stueve allowed an RBI double and a game-tying single before a walkoff double ended it. The Royals are 15-22.

Royals on the Farm 8/4

2011-08-04T20:52:00.002-05:00

Sorry about the unannounced absence of yesterday....took a trip to see My Morning Jacket live at the Uptown in KC. Definitely a must-see if you get the chance...quite a few songs were even better live than on the album. All I had to pay was the ticket price and most of the day being partially deaf in my left ear! As long as that comes back, I have to say it was worth it.

AAA - Omaha: Sacramento 4, Storm Chasers 3

LF Lough 2-4, HR (8), 2 RBI (53), RS, CS (6) -- .314
2B Giavotella 1-4, 2B (34), RS -- .338
CF Cain 1-4 -- .317
1B C. Robinson 0-3, BB, K, RS -- .309
C Perez 1-4 -- .281

Mazzaro 6 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, 3 BB, 3 K, HRA -- L, 5-2, 5.04 ERA
Miner 3 IP, 2 H, 2 BB, 5 K -- 1.59 ERA

* A 3-run 5th propelled the RiverCats to the win. Vin Mazzaro gave up a run in the 1st but the Chasers scored on a double play in the 2nd, then added 2 in the 3rd on a David Lough 2-run shot (his 8th). One pitch undid Mazzaro as a 3-run homer in the 5th by CF Jermaine Mitchell made it 4-3 RiverCats. The Chasers scattered a few more hits but the last 7 went down in order. Omaha is 62-50. Game 3 is Friday.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 3, Tulsa 1

C Theriot 2-4, 2B (6) -- .239
RF Orlando 1-4, HR, 3 RBI (13), K, RS -- .377
CF Robinson 0-3, S -- .259
2B Colon 1-4, RS -- .254
LF Nick Francis had an assist at second.

Jeffress 5 IP, 4 H, 3 BB, 2 K -- W, 1-1, 4.60 ERA
Paulino IP, BB, K -- 5.50 ERA
Lebron 3 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, 2 K, HRA -- SV, 1, 3.83 ERA

* NWA made 3 1st inning runs stand up in Thursday's win. Paulo Orlando did all of the Nats' damage with a 3-run homer in the 1st for his 1st of the AA season. Jeremy Jeffress worked out of a couple jams, and Willy Lebron gave up a solo homer in the 7th. He stranded a runner in both of the last 2 innings to pick up his 1st save. NWA is 21-19 and finishes the series with a 2-game toehold on first. A 4-game home set with the Arkansas Travelers (18-22, AA Angels) starts Friday. Chris Dwyer will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Winston-Salem 11, Blue Rocks 0

RF Van Stratten 2-2, 2 BB, OF assist at home -- .305
2B Merrifield 1-3, BB -- .260

Melville 2 1/3 IP, 6 ER, 6 H, 3 BB, 3 K, WP -- L, 8-7, 4.33 ERA
Mariot 2 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, 4 K, WP -- 3.14 ERA
Keck 2 IP, 2 H, K -- 5.23 ERA
Paukovits IP, 2 ER, 3 H, BB -- 4.08 ERA

* The Dash routed Tim Melville. Winston-Salem scored 3 in both the 2nd and 3rd and they were off. They added a run in the 4th, 2 in the 5th and 2 in the 8th. Meanwhile, the Rocks scattered 5 hits. Wilmington is 15-24. A 3-game set at the Lynchburg Hillcats (15-24, A-Adv. Braves) starts Friday with Noel Arguelles pitching. Mariot and Elisaul Pimentel are flipping spots as Pimentel returns to the rotation.

A - Kane County: Cougars 10, Beloit 4

LF Fletcher 4-5, 2 2B (22), HR (9), 4 RBI (43), K, 3 RS -- .342
1B Kuebler 2-5, 2B (13), 3B, 2 RBI (21), K, RS -- .213
DH Beltre 2-4, BB, 2 RS -- .243
CF Eibner 1-4, BB, 2B (8), K, 2 RS -- .220
3B Cuthbert 1-4, K, RS -- .314
C Graterol 1-4, BB, RBI (4) -- .202
2B Espinal 0-5, RBI (17), 2 K -- .181

S. Garrido 4 1/3 IP, 4 ER, 2 H, 3 BB, 5 K, 3 WP -- 6.20 ERA
C. White 1 2/3 IP, H, BB, K -- W, 1-0, 5.63 ERA
J. Mitchell 3 IP, H, BB, 5 K -- SV, 1, 1.64 ERA

* The Cougars broke out the bats to drub the Snappers on Thursday. Brian Fletcher started his night with a bang as his 3-run dinger (his 9th) made it 3-0 KC in the 1st. Beloit scored 2 in the 2nd but Jake Kuebler hit a 2-run triple in the 4th and Yowill Espinal hit an RBI forceout to make it 6-2. Santiago Garrido and Cole White allowed 2 runs in the 5th to cut it to 6-4 but the Cougars did all the scoring from there. Two run-scoring wild pitches in the 7th made it 8-4, and Fletcher hit an RBI double and Juan Graterol added an RBI single to make it 10-4 in the 9th. KC is 24-15. They'll go for the sweep on Friday. Greg Billo will start.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 8, Orem 7 (10)

LF Chism 4-5, 2 2B (6), HR (6), 5 RBI (25), 2 RS, CS (3) -- .278
CF Sandford 2-5, K, 2 RS, SB (18) -- .256
1B Moreno 2-5, 2B (8), K -- .257
2B Piterson 1-5, RBI (7) -- .259
DH Mateo 1-5, 2B (6), RBI (21), K -- .299
C Escobar 0-5, RBI (12), picked off runner -- .324

A. Brooks 5 1/3 IP, 4 R (3 ER), 9 H, 2 K -- 4.06 ERA
Jo. Sanchez 1 1/3 IP, 3 ER, H, BB, 3 K, WP -- 7.40 ERA
Penny 2 1/3 IP, H, BB, 2 K, WP -- W, 2-4, 10.45 ERA
Fassold IP, K -- SV, 2, 4.85 ERA

* IF pulled off the improbable comeback on Thursday. Tyler Chism hit an RBI double in the 3rd but Orem answered with 3 off Aaron Brooks in the bottom of the frame. Orem chased Brooks with an RBI triple in the 6th and Robert Penny gave up a 3-run double in the 7th to make it 7-1. Chism hit a 2-run double in the 8th, Luis Piterson hit an RBI single and Daniel Mateo hit an RBI groundout to trim it to 7-5. Chism proved to be a one-man wrecking crew as he clubbed a 2-out, 2-run homer (his 6th) in the 9th to come up big and tie it. Edul Escobar hit an RBI forceout in the 10th and Cody Fassold pitched a quiet 10th to get his 2nd save. IF is 2-3. A 4-game set at the Casper Ghosts (4-1, Rookie Rockies) starts Friday. I failed to note that Brian Peacock was named Pioneer League Pitcher of the Week for July 25-31 with 11 scoreless IP in the week.

Rookie - Burlington: B-Royals 10, Pulaski 7

SS Antonio 2-4, SF, HR (6), 3 RBI (26), K, RS -- .290, also had homered Wednesday
DH Swab 3-4, RBI (5), RS -- .215
CF Adams 2-4, BB, 2B (5), K, 4 RS, E -- .279
1B Watts 2-3, BB, SF, 2 RBI (36), SB -- .265
3B Bringas 2-4, K, RS, E (13) -- .216
RF Bonifacio 1-4, SF, 2 RBI (18), K -- .287
2B Trapp 1-4, S, 2B (11), RBI (30), K, RS -- .295
LF Howard 1-3, BB, HR, RBI (2), RS -- .143

Ridings 6 IP, 3 H, 7 K -- W, 2-3, 2.70 ERA
Pizziconi 1 1/3 IP, 3 R (2 ER), H, BB -- 6.35 ERA
Middendorf 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 5 H -- 54.00 ERA
R. Brown IP, H -- SV, 1, 2.96 ERA

* Matt Ridings rose to the challenge set out by Matt Murray in his last start with 6 scoreless innings in a Royals win on Thursday. Mike Antonio hit a sac fly in the 1st and Murray Watts and Jorge Bonifacio hit RBI singles in the 3rd to make it 3-0 Royals. Anthony Howard hit his 1st Burlington homer in the 4th and a Justin Trapp RBI double was followed by a 2-run Antonio shot (his 6th) to make it 7-0. Ridings retired the last 12 he faced and the firm of Watts and Bonifacio hit sac flies in the 6th to make it 9-0. Kenny Swab singled in a run in the 7th to make the lead double digits. Andrea Pizziconi was pulled with 1 out and the bases full in the 8th and David Middendorf almost let the lead slip away. But you know what they say about "close" and how it counts. The Mariners churned out 7 runs in the inning, but Rudy Brown pitched a scoreless 9th to finish it. Burlington is 17-26. The series ends Friday.

Rookie - AZL: Royals 6, Padres 5

LF Toney 2-3, 2 BB, 2B (7), 2 RBI (20), RS, picked off, OF assist at third -- .360
SS Arteaga 2-4, BB, 2B (4), RBI (17), RS -- .235
3B Morales 2-3, BB, K, RS, SB (3) -- .370, hit 2 HR (including a granny) and drove in 7 on Wednesday
CF Gore 2-4, 2 RS, 2 SB (11) -- .385
1B Cuckovich 1-3, BB, 3B, RBI (9), RS -- .333
C Gallagher 0-4, K -- .250, 2 hits, 2 RBI on Wed.
2B DelGuidice 0-4 -- .400

E. Diaz 4 2/3 IP, 5 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, 3 K, WP -- 6.20 ERA
Runion 1 1/3 IP, K -- 1.00 ERA
Witt 2 IP, 3 H, K, WP -- W, 2-2, 8.00 ERA
Stueve IP, H -- SV, 4, 1.64 ERA

* The Royals blew a 5-run lead but returned to take it in the 8th. Nick Cuckovich staked the Royals to a lead with an RBI triple in the 1st and scored on an error on the play. Another error scored a run in the Royal 3rd, and D'Andre Toney and Humberto Arteaga hit RBI doubles to make it 5-0. Eric Diaz was doing well, but faltered to give up 3 runs in the 4th, then allowed 2 runs in the 5th to tie it. Toney gunned down a runner at third to end the Pads 7th and the Royals threw out another runner at third in the 8th. Toney then came through with an RBI single in the 8th and Andrew Stueve pitched the 9th for his 4th save. The Royals are 15-21.

Royals on the Farm 8/2 -- Gallagher debuts in AZL

2011-08-02T20:14:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 13, Oklahoma City 2

C S. Perez 3-5, 2B (2), 2 RBI (7), RS -- .250
2B Giavotella 3-5, BB, 2B (33), RS, CS (5), E (11) -- .342, Johnny "Rottin'" in AAA
SS Zawadzki 2-5, 3B (6), 2 RBI (38), K, 2 RS -- .247
CF Cain 2-5, BB, 2 RBI (59), 2 RS, 2 SB (12) -- .319, KC needs a dose
LF Lough 2-3, 2 BB, S, HR (7), RBI (51), 3 RS -- .315
DH Robinson 2-3, BB, SF, RBI (71), 2 RS, SB (2) -- .309
3B-1B Arias 2-5, 2B (6), RBI (13), RS -- .214
1B Ka'aihue 1-3, HR (8), 3 RBI (52), RS -- .288
RF Falu 0-4, SF, RBI (29) -- .291

Mendoza 6 IP, ER, 4 H, BB, 6 K -- W, 8-4, 2.32 ERA
Tejeda 3 IP, ER, 3 H, 4 K, HRA -- SV, 1, 3.48 ERA

* Omaha attacked from all spots in the lineup in a 4-inning onslaught. The game was scoreless entering the 4th, when David Lough led off with his 7th homer, followed by an Irving Falu sac fly, a 2-run Lance Zawadzki triple, and a Joaquin Arias RBI single. Luis Mendoza had another good start, and allowed his only run on 2 hits in the 4th. The Chasers answered with 3 runs in the 5th on a Kila Ka'aihue 3-run blast for his 8th of the season. Then they padded the lead with 4 in the 6th on a Lorenzo Cain bases-loaded walk, Clint Robinson sac fly, and 2-run Salvador Perez single that made it 12-1. Cain singled in a run in the 7th to finish the scoring for Omaha. Robinson Tejeda allowed a late run but worked a 3-inning save. Omaha is 61-49 after the 4-game sweep of OKC. A 4-game home set with the Sacramento RiverCats (67-43, AAA A's) starts Wednesday. Sean O'Sullivan is set to start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Tulsa 6, Naturals 2

CF Myers 1-3, HR (4), 2 RBI (30), RS -- .250
1B Romak 1-3, K -- .265
LF Robinson 0-4, 2 K -- .265
SS Colon 0-3, BB, E (13) -- .257

M. Santiago 4 IP, 3 R (1 ER), 4 H, BB, 2 K, pickoff -- L, 2-1, 1.34 ERA
E. Garcia 1 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, 3 BB, K -- 4.26 ERA
Dobies 1 1/3 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, K -- 8.64 ERA
Hardy IP, 2 K -- 1.89 ERA

* The Naturals offense didn't do much damage on the Drillers on Tuesday. Mario Santiago gave up single runs in the 1st and 2nd, then got nicked for another run in the 4th. Tulsa added 2 in the 6th off Edgar Garcia and 1 in the 7th off Andrew Dobies. Wil Myers hit a 2-run homer in the 8th for his 4th of the season and a Christian Colon walk was fruitless in the 9th. NWA is 19-19 and now in a tie for first with the Drillers. Game 2 is Wednesday.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 6, Winston-Salem 4

CF Prades 2-4, HR (3), 2 RBI (15), K, 2 RS -- .303
SS Hall 2-4, RBI (11) -- .256
1B Stovall 2-4, 2 2B (10), 2 RS -- .254
DH Testa 2-5, K, SB (12) -- .262
LF Ferguson 0-3, SF, RBI (32), K -- .225
2B Merrifield 1-5, E (5) -- .263, 14-game hit streak

Sample 4 1/3 IP, 6 ER, 8 H, 4 BB, 4 K, HRA -- L, 6-9, 5.73 ERA
E. Pimentel 1 2/3 IP, H, BB, 2 K -- 3.49 ERA
Odenbach 2 IP, 2 H -- 3.00 ERA

* Wilmington's first 2 runs gave them the lead but by the time the Rocks scored their last 2, it was too little too late. Tyler Sample left the bases full in the 1st and Yem Prades hit a 2-run shot in the 2nd for his 3rd of the season to make it 2-0 Rocks. The rarest of the rare took place in the 3rd as Dash RF Nick Ciolli hit an inside-the-park grand slam. The Dash added single runs in the 4th and 5th to make it 6-2. Tim Ferguson hit a sac fly in the 6th and Gerard Hall hit an RBI groundout to cut it to 6-4. The Rocks stranded 2 in the 9th. Wilmington is 14-23. Game 2 is Wednesday. Justin Marks will start.

A - Kane County: Cougars 6, Beloit 2

CF Eibner 3-5, HR (10), RBI (21), K, RS -- .211
C David 2-4, HR, RBI (7), RS -- .257
DH Calixte 2-4, 2B (3), HR (3), RBI (25), 2 RS -- .229
1B Kuebler 1-5, HR (7), 2 RBI (19), K, RS -- .212
3B Cuthbert 0-3, 2 BB, 2 K -- .318

Adam 6 IP, H, 5 K -- W, 5-6, 4.68 ERA
Giovenco 2 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 3 BB, 5 K -- 4.35 ERA
Byrne 2/3 IP, nothing -- SV, 9, 3.29 ERA

* Jason Adam had a great start and the Cougars made good use of the longball in Tuesday's win. Kevin David led off the 2nd with his 1st homer for KC and an error scored Orlando Calixte later in the inning to make it 2-0 Cougs. Brett Eibner led off the 3rd with his 10th homer to make it 3-0 KC. Jake Kuebler slammed a 2-run homer (his 7th) in the 5th and Calixte hit his 3rd homer in the 6th to stretch it to 6-0. Adam allowed a leadoff single in the 1st, then retired the next 17 he faced before getting pulled after 6. Mike Giovenco stranded 2 in the 8th and allowed 2 runs before Chas Byrne finished it in the 9th. KC is 22-15. Game 2 is Wednesday as Leondy Perez starts.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Casper 4, Chukars 2 (Mon.)

2B Piterson 3-4, 2B (3) -- .267
C Jenkins 2-4, 2 RBI -- .333
LF Elder 2-4, RS -- .333
RF Davis 0-4, 2 K -- .327

B. Martin 5 1/3 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, 2 BB, 5 K -- L, 2-3, 3.99 ERA
N. Johnson 2 2/3 IP, 2 H, 3 K -- 3.72 ERA
Fassold IP, ER, H, 2 BB -- 5.25 ERA

* Casper held off the Chukars for a win Monday. The Ghosts got a run in the 1st off Brennon Martin. The Chukars couldn't buy a run, and Martin and Nathan Johnson allowed 2 runs in the 6th. Ryan Jenkins hit a 2-run single in the 6th to supply the IF offense. The Chukars left a runner at third in the 7th and Casper got an insurance run in the 9th. The Chukars stranded 1 in the 9th. IF is 1-1. The series ends tonight.

Rookie - Burlington: off day

* A 3-game home set with Pulaski (19-21) starts Wednesday.

Rookie - AZL: Rangers 18, Royals 9

3B Morales 2-3, 2B (3), RBI (7), RS -- .319
LF Gore 2-4, BB, RBI (13), K -- .375
RF Blanco 1-2, 2B (6), RBI (19), RS -- .283
C Gallagher 1-2, BB, RBI, E (catcher's interference) -- .500, pro debut
CF Toney 1-5, HBP, RBI (15), K, RS -- .350
SS Arteaga 1-6, RBI (16), K, RS -- .223
1B Gaylord 0-5, RBI (18), 2 K -- .212
DH Bello 0-4, BB, RBI (9), K -- .286
PH-2B DelGuidice 0-1, BB, RS -- .411
The Royals stranded 12.

Baumann 1 2/3 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 2 H, BB, 5 K -- L, 0-1, 10.80 ERA, rehabbing
Lumpkins 3 IP, 6 ER, 10 H, 2 BB, HRA -- 8.33 ERA
J. Morales 3 IP, 7 R (6 ER), 7 H, 3 BB, 4 K -- 5.76 ERA
Bangs IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 3 K -- 6.55 ERA
F. Cruz 1/3 IP, BB -- 13.14 ERA

* Whereas the Royals scored 1 or 2 runs at a time, the Rangers were scoring 3 or 4 at a time to get the win. The Rangers scored 3 in the 2nd off Buddy Baumann and Stephen Lumpkins, but a run-scoring error got the Royals on the board in the bottom of the inning. The Rangers added 2 in the 3rd...and the Royals responded with a run on Cameron Gallagher's first pro RBI single. The Royals were able to cut it to 5-4 with 2 in the 4th on a D'Andre Toney RBI single and Humberto Arteaga RBI forceout. The Rangers kicked it into gear with 4 in the 5th, then added 3 in the 6th to make it 12-4. Adrian Morales singled in a run and Rainier Bello took a bases-loaded walk in the 6th. The Rangers put it away with 4 in the 8th, but Brian Gaylord hit an RBI groundout in the 8th and, after the Rangers poured on two more gravy runs in the 9th, Jerico Blanco hit an RBI double and Terrance Gore hit an RBI single to make it 18-9. The Royals are 13-21.

Royals on the Farm 8/1 -- Gallagher signs

2011-08-01T18:55:00.003-05:00

The Royals finally got one of their top 5 draft picks signed -- 2nd rd C Cameron Gallagher out of a Pennsylvania high school. He is slated for the AZL, then the fall instructional league per the team site. The deadline for signings is midnight ET Aug. 15.

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 2, Oklahoma City 0

DH Ka'aihue 2-4, RS -- .287
2B Giavotella 0-3, SF, RBI (72), 2 K -- .339
RF Dyson 0-3, RBI (15) -- .285
CF Cain 1-4, K -- .318
1B Robinson 0-3, BB -- .307
LF Lough 0-4 -- .312
C S. Perez 0-3, HBP, RS -- .158

Suppan 7 IP, 5 H, 4 BB, 5 K, WP -- W, 10-5, 4.42 ERA
Pucetas 2 IP, H, BB, K -- SV, 1, 5.36 ERA

* Jeff Suppan and Kevin Pucetas combined to shut out the RedHawks. Suppan stranded 2 in the 1st and the Chasers got 2 runs in the 2nd on a Jarrod Dyson RBI fielder's choice and a Johnny Giavotella sac fly. Suppan stranded 2 in the 6th and Pucetas worked around a leadoff double in the 8th for the RedHawks' final push. Omaha is 60-49. The series ends Tuesday. Luis Mendoza will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Springfield 7, Naturals 1

3B Lisson 2-4, RBI (37), 2 K, E (12) -- .259
2B Navarro 2-4, 2B (5), 2 K, E (6) -- .283
RF Orlando 2-4, BB, 2B (4), 3B (2), K, OF assist at third -- .400
CF Robinson 0-5 -- .269
SS Bianchi 0-4, BB -- .267
NWA stranded 11.

Odorizzi 5 2/3 IP, 4 R (2 ER), 4 H, 4 BB, 2 K, HRA -- L, 3-1, 4.46 ERA, that's a shaky one
Lafferty 1 1/3 IP, 3 UER, 2 H, 2 K, HRA -- 0.00 ERA
Lebron IP, H, BB, 2 K, WP -- 3.88 ERA

* Springfield went on a 6-run surge to take Monday's series finale. Jake Odorizzi gave up a solo homer in the 3rd but Mario Lisson hit an RBI single in the 4th to tie the game. The Naturals wasted a Paulo Orlando triple in the 5th. Odorizzi had given up an RBI single before getting pulled with 2 out and 2 on in the 6th, and Brendan Lafferty was victimized by a Rey Navarro run-scoring error and another run before a 3-run homer made it 7-1 Cards. NWA stranded 2 in the 9th. The Naturals are 19-18 and still a game up on first. A 3-game set at the Tulsa Drillers (18-19, second place, AA Rockies) starts Tuesday.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: off day

* A 3-game set at the Winston-Salem Dash (20-15, A-Adv. ChiSox) starts Tuesday. Tyler Sample will start.

A - Kane County: Quad Cities 3, Cougars 0 (4-hitter)

1B Kuebler 2-4, 2 2B (12), K -- .213
CF Eibner 0-3, BB -- .199
LF Fletcher 0-3, BB, 2 K -- .335
3B Cuthbert 0-4, K, E (5) -- .322

Ventura 3 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, BB, 5 K, 2 WP -- L, 2-4, 5.02 ERA
A. Cruz 3 1/3 IP, H, 2 BB, 3 K, WP, E (5) -- 2.80 ERA
Boruff IP, UER, H, 3 K -- 1.95 ERA

* The Cougars had about as many errors (3) as hits (4) in the loss to the Bandits. The Bandits got to Yordano Ventura for a run in the 1st, then another in the 3rd. QC starter Anthony Ferrara handed a 3-hit shutout to the pen in the 8th, and Chase Boruff allowed a run in the 8th. The Cougars loaded the bases with 1 out in the 9th but couldn't capitalize. KC is 21-15. A 4-game set at the Beloit Snappers (17-19, A Twins) starts Tuesday with Jason Adam starting.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Report tomorrow on the Chukars game

Rookie - Burlington: B-Royals 5, Pulaski 0 (1-hitter)

3B Bringas 2-4, 2 2B (4) -- .211
1B Watts 1-4, BB, 2 RBI (34), RS -- .260
C Shin 1-4, RBI (6), K, RS, PB (5) -- .220
LF Brooks 1-4, RBI (2), 2 K, picked off -- .237
2B Trapp 1-4, BB, K, SB (18) -- .293
SS Antonio 0-4, BB, 2 K, RS -- .282

Murray 6 2/3 IP, H, 9 K -- W, 2-2, 3.18 ERA, best start of his young career
Culver 2 1/3 IP, 2 BB, 4 K -- 7.33 ERA

* The Royals got a shutdown outing out of Matt Murray and Malcom Culver backed him up well to combine on a 1-hitter. Murray Watts hit an RBI groundout in the 1st and Pulaski got what would be its only hit in the 1st. Murray went on to retire the next 17 after the hit. Meanwhile, the Royals got a Steven Brooks RBI single, a run-scoring wild pitch and Jin-Ho Shin RBI single, and a Watts RBI single to make it 5-0. Murray hit 2 batters in the 7th and was pulled with 2 on and 2 out for Culver, who ended up stranding the bases full. He stranded 1 in the 8th and then pitched a perfect 9th. Burlington is 16-25. The Royals have Tuesday off.

Burlington OPS leaders (these stats are all as of after yesterday's game)
1. 1B Murray Watts .913 -- .260/.365/.548, 24 RS, 6 2B, 12 HR*, 32 RBI*, 23 BB*/38 K, 0/1 SB, 3 E in 39 G/146 ABs -- .642 OPS in Kane County, doing somewhat better in Burlington, slugging is main thing as he slugged .289 in 35 games at KC and has slugged .548 in 39 games at Burlington
2. SS Justin Trapp .896 -- .294/.371/.524, 28 RS*, 10 2B*, 4 3B*, 5 HR, 28 RBI, 18 BB/34 K, 17/20 SB*, 13 E in 38 G/143 ABs -- has flashed some pop this season
3. OF Lane Adams .849 -- .293/.369/.480, 12 RS, 4 2B, 2 3B, 2 HR, 5 RBI, 7 BB/19 K, 4/5 SB, 0 E in 19 G/75 ABs -- .622 OPS in Kane County, so another full-season refugee making hay in the rookie league
Others -- OF Jorge Bonifacio .816 (10 2B*, 3 3B, 6 BB/37 K in 37 G/145 ABs)...SS Mike Antonio .790 (.292/.348/.442, 6 2B, 4 HR, 10 BB/12 K, 8/11 SB, 15 E* in 32 G/120 ABs, I figured his OPS was higher than that)...C Jared Dyer .673...C Jin-Ho Shin .619 (struggles continue)...3B Adrian Bringas .613...C Kenny Swab .499

Burlington WHIP leaders
1. Nick Graffeo 0.76 -- 3*-1, 1.14 ERA, 4 SV*, HRA, 9 BB/42 K in 12 games (1 start) and 31 2/3 IP -- has really stood out for the B-Royals
2. Matt Ridings 1.01 -- 1-3, 3.10, 3 HRA, 6 BB/32 K in 8 starts and 40 2/3 IP* -- Also doing well in his pro debut
3. Matt Murray 1.15 -- 1-2, 3.82, 4 HRA, 8 BB/33 K in 8 starts and 33 IP -- one step behind Ridings, typed that before tonight's gem
Others -- Tyler Graham 1.30 (2 SV, 16 BB/34 K in 27 2/3 IP)...Eric Cantrell 1.68 (15 BB/25 K in 28 IP)...Robinson Yambati 3.11 (yes that's his WHIP, 0-5, 18.85, 6 HRA, 11 BB/9 K in 17 2/3 IP, wow)

Rookie - AZL: off day

Royals on the Farm 7/31 -- July ends with more Giavotella fireworks

2011-07-31T17:20:00.004-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 12, Oklahoma City 3

2B Giavotella 5-6, 2B (32), 4 RBI (71), 2 RS -- .341
DH Ka'aihue 2-5, HR (7), RBI (49), 2 RS -- .284
SS Zawadzki 2-4, HR (7), RBI (36), 2 RS -- .243
C Clark 2-5, 2B (7), HR (4), RBI (36), 2 RS -- .275
CF Dyson 2-4, BB, RBI (14), 2 RS -- .289
3B Falu 2-5, RS -- .298
RF Cain 1-4, BB, HR (13), 2 RBI (57), RS -- .318
LF Lough 1-4, 2 BB, 3B (10), 2 RBI (50) -- .316
1B Robinson 1-5, K -- .309

Montgomery 7 IP, 3 ER, 8 H, BB, 5 K -- W, 4-6, 5.37 ERA
Sisk 2 IP, BB -- 1.47 ERA

* Omaha scored 9 runs in support of Mike Montgomery in the first third of the game and rolled past the RedHawks. On the day KC failed to make room for Johnny Giavotella on the major league roster, he put together a 5-hit game. He led off the game with a single and Lorenzo Cain, another person waiting for an open spot on the KC roster, slammed a 2-run homer (his 13th) to give the Chasers the lead. Omaha loaded the bases with 1 out in the 2nd and Giavotella hit a 2-run single and David Lough hit a 2-run triple to make it 6-0. Jarrod Dyson added an RBI single and Giavotella hit a 2-run double in the 3rd to improve to 9-0. The RedHawks finally got a run off Mike Montgomery in the 3rd and OKC added a run in the 4th. Lance Zawadzki and Cody Clark hit back-to-back homers in the 7th (their 7th and 4th, respectively) and Kila Ka'aihue smoked his 7th homer of the season in the 8th. Montgomery allowed a run in the 7th but Brandon Sisk pitched 2 hitless innings to finish it. Omaha is 59-49. Game 3 is Monday as Jeff Suppan starts.

Omaha OPS leaders
1. OF Lorenzo Cain .916 -- .318/.391/.525, 62 RS, 23 2B, 6 3B, 13 HR, 57 RBI, 32 BB/79 K, 10/15 SB, 3 E in 95 G/358 ABs -- has improved each month, hit .368 with .985 OPS in July
2. 1B/DH Clint Robinson .891 -- .309/.385/.506, 68 RS, 24 2B, 18 HR*, 70 RBI, 47 BB/69 K, 1/2 SB, 4 E in 104 G/395 ABs -- hit only .247 with .646 OPS in July, only 1 HR in month, slugged .309 in month, which isn't a good sign
3. IF Johnny Giavotella .879 -- .341/.394/.485, 65 RS, 32 2B*, 2 3B, 9 HR, 71 RBI*, 39 BB/54 K, 9/13 SB, 10 E in 106 G/437 ABs -- second straight great month, 1.000 OPS and .383 BA in July
Others -- OF David Lough .849 (10 3B, hit .333 with .901 OPS in July, best month yet)...1B Kila Ka'aihue .839 (.402 OBP, 48 BB/59 K, ungood July, .232 BA and .704 OPS)...OF Jarrod Dyson .697 (23 BB/21 K, .682 OPS in July)

Omaha WHIP leaders
1. Brandon Sisk 0.93 -- 3-1, 1.47 ERA, 1 SV, 9 BB/17 K in 15 G/18 1/3 IP -- .118 OAV (opponent's batting average against) in July, .140 overall
2. Everett Teaford 0.95 -- 3-2, 3.34, 5 HRA, 11 BB/33 K in 16 G (3 starts) and 35 IP -- riding the KC shuttle has made for intermittent stats at AAA
3. Sean O'Sullivan 1.18 -- 3-2, 3.86, 3 HRA, 11 BB/27 K in 7 starts and 37 1/3 IP -- waiting for spot back in KC
Others -- Luis Mendoza 1.25 (7-4, 2.37, 1 CG, 1 ShO, 2 SV, 4 HRA, 43 BB/58 K in 27 G (12 starts) and 110 1/3 IP, 1.54 ERA, .161 OAV in month (.239 OAV overall), what a month for Luis, almost got another no-no, allowed 1 run or less in 6 of last 10 starts)...Jeff Suppan 1.37 (9*-5, 4.66, 2 CG, 1 ShO, 19 HRA, 36 BB/67 K in in 21 G (20 starts) and 127 1/3 IP*, he has earned his keep for Omaha)...Mike Montgomery 1.49 (4-6, 5.37, 11 HRA, 57 BB/92 K in 21 starts and 112 1/3 IP, July was his best month since April, 4.39 ERA and .263 OAV in month, .256 OAV overall)...Vin Mazzaro 1.63 (5-1, 4.97, 7 HRA, 40 BB/76 K in 15 starts and 83 1/3 IP, he's been pretty mediocre)

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 9, Springfield 1

CF Orlando 4-5, 2 RBI (7), K, 2 RS, 2 SB (4) -- .391
DH Romak 2-5, GS (19), 5 RBI (58), K, RS -- .266
C Eigsti 2-4, 2 2B (5), RBI (3), K, RS -- .500
3B Navarro 2-3, BB, 3 RS, SB (4) -- .275
SS Colon 0-4, S, 2 K -- .259
RF Myers 0-1, 3 BB, HBP, RS, SB (6), picked off -- .249
2B Bianchi 0-5, K -- .270

Dwyer 7 IP, ER, 6 H, BB, 5 K, HRA -- W, 5-9, 6.01 ERA, second straight good start
Chapman 2 IP, 3 K -- 3.16 ERA

* It was all Naturals Sunday as they turned the whipping around on the Cards. Jamie Romak hit an RBI single in the 1st and Ryan Eigsti doubled in a run in the 2nd to make it 2-0 Naturals. A Paulo Orlando single scored 2 runs in the 4th as it was aided by a Springfield error. Chris Dwyer took a shutout into the 6th but allowed a solo homer that inning. NWA answered with 4 runs in the 7th on a Jamie Romak grand slam (his 19th homer) and Orlando added an RBI single in the 8th. Kevin Chapman came in for two perfect innings of relief. NWA is 19-17. The series ends Monday. Jake Odorizzi will start. C Manny Pina got bumped up to KC to take Matt Treanor's roster slot after he got wiped out at the plate on Saturday.

NWA OPS leaders
1. 1B Jamie Romak .862 -- .266/.362/.500, 48 RS, 18 2B, 19 HR*, 58 RBI*, 41 BB/60 K, 6/7 SB, 6 E in 91 G/320 ABs -- put together .330 BA, 1.105 OPS in July, power surge was on as he clubbed 10 HR in month
2. IF Anthony Seratelli .833 -- .287/.403/.430, 74 RS*, 8 2B, 6 3B*, 9 HR, 48 RBI, 60 BB/70 K, 30/32 SB (nice), 5 E in 97 G/328 ABs -- .789 July OPS was down from the .900s in June, still posted .398 OBP in month
3. 3B Mario Lisson .817 -- .255/.340/.477, 46 RS, 15 2B, 11 HR, 36 RBI, 23 BB/61 K, 9/10 SB, 11 E in 69 G/216 ABs -- playing time dropped and so did #s in July, .708 OPS in month
Others -- OF Wil Myers .703 (.249/.351/.352, 30 RS, 15 2B, 3 HR, 28 RBI, 40 BB/67 K, 6/8 SB, 5 E in 70 G/253 ABs, hit .172 with .535 OPS in July, yeesh)...IF Christian Colon .688 (.259/.331/.357, 10 2B, 8 HR, 54 RBI, 37 BB/39 K, 16/22 SB, 12 E in 96 G/367 ABs, hit .284 with .762 OPS in July, equaled HR output from April-June in July with 4 HR)...IF Rey Navarro .682 (first 28 games)...2B Jeff Bianchi .676 (.657 OPS in July)...OF Derrick Robinson .662 (41/51 SB, .345 OBP overall, hit .309 with .732 OPS in July tho)...OF Tim Smith would be in leaders but didn't play in July so I left him off

NWA WHIP leaders
1. Mario Santiago 1.11 -- 2-0, 1.21 ERA, 2 HRA, 11 BB/26 K in 29 2/3 IP -- just got back to AA
2. Kevin Chapman 1.17 -- 1-1, 3.16, 3 SV, HRA, 10 BB/34 K in 25 2/3 IP -- doing well in AA thus far
3. Jake Odorizzi 1.33 -- 3-0, 4.71, 5 HRA, 8 BB/24 K in 5 starts and 28 2/3 IP -- starting off decently in AA
Others -- Patrick Keating 1.42 (6.16 ERA, 7 SV, 12 BB/44 K in 38 IP)...Will Smith 1.48 (9-8, 4.54, 1 CG, 1 ShO, 11 HRA, 36 BB/71 K in 119 IP, 4-1 in July, .245 OAV in month (.303 overall))...Chris Dwyer 1.51 (5-9, 6.01, 2 CG, 11 HRA, 64 BB/91 K in 106 1/3 IP, 20 BB/21 K in month but ended it with two good starts, .234 OAV in month, .249 overall)...Jeremy Jeffress 2.34 (in first 10 2/3 IP at NWA)

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 5, Kinston 2

CF Prades 2-4, 2 RBI (13), K, RS, SB (8) -- .299
DH Van Stratten 2-4, RS -- .292
3B Whittleman 2-4, K -- .243
SS Hall 1-3, 2B (5), 2 RBI (10) -- .244
RF Testa 0-3, SF, RBI (27), K -- .259
2B Merrifield 1-3, BB, RS -- .263, 13-game hit streak

Arguelles 6 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, BB, 4 K, E -- W, 4-4, 2.90 ERA
Dennick 2 IP, BB, K -- 3.76 ERA
Keck IP, H, K -- SV, 1, 6.48 ERA

* Noel Arguelles moved to a .500 record as the Rocks got the sweep. Carlo Testa hit a sac fly in the 1st and the Tribe got all they could get with 2 in the 2nd. Gerard Hall helped end the rally by nailing a runner at the plate, then came up and hit a 2-run double in the Rocks' 2nd to make it 3-2 Wilmington. Ryan Dennick stranded 2 in the 8th and Yem Prades hit a 2-run single in the inning to stretch it to 5-2. Jon Keck worked around a double in the 9th for his 1st save. Wilmington is 14-22. They have Monday off.

Wilmington OPS leaders
1. 1B John Whittleman .831 -- .243/.358/.473, 46 RS, 20 2B, 3 3B, 17 HR*, 54 RBI*, 62 BB*/83 K, 17 E* in 98 G/334 ABs -- had best month yet with 1.046 OPS in July, 9 HR in month
2. OF Yem Prades .760 -- .299/.332/.428, 24 RS, 13 2B, 3 3B, 2 HR, 13 RBI, 8 BB/47 K, 8/11 SB in 50 G/194 ABs -- hit .308 with .808 OPS in July, best month of season, drop on OBP was supplemented by better SLG
3. OF Nick Van Stratten .726 -- .292/.339/.387, 13 RS, 5 2B, 3B, HR, 15 RBI, 7 BB/13 K, 6/6 SB, 1 E in 28 G/106 ABs -- ho-hum first month back in Carolina League
Others -- OF Carlo Testa .719 (.713 July OPS was a rebound from bad June but still not good)...OF Whit Merrifield .700 (56 RS and 25 2B leads team, his .723 July OPS was also a rebound but still leaves plenty of room for improvement, slugged over .400 for his first month this season)...IF Gerard Hall .617 (still finding sea legs in Carolina League)

Wilmington WHIP leaders
1. Noel Arguelles 1.05 -- 4-4, 2.90 ERA, 6 HRA, 17 BB/58 K in 19 starts and 96 1/3 IP -- 4.15 ERA and .240 OAV in July (.241 overall), staff ace with Odorizzi in AA
2. Mike Mariot 1.14 -- 7-3, 2.89, 5 SV, 5 HRA, 18 BB/56 K in 22 G (6 starts) and 74 2/3 IP -- 2.86 ERA, .267 OAV in July (.232 overall), improvement from poor June
3. Ryan Dennick 1.15 -- 2-4, 3.76, 4 SV, 4 HRA, 9 BB/36 K in 27 G and 38 1/3 IP -- numbers weren't great in July but were better than his June ones
Others -- Elisaul Pimentel 1.17 (couldn't live up to great June numbers but had decent July)...Justin Marks 1.36 (30 BB/100 K in 104 2/3 IP, another OK month)...Tim Melville 1.46 (8*-6, 33 BB/75 K in 101 2/3 IP, 2.74 ERA, .183 OAV in July, .289 OAV overall)

A - Kane County: Quad Cities 3, Cougars 1

LF Fletcher 3-3, BB -- .339
SS Calixte 2-4 -- .227
CF Eibner 1-3, BB, HR (9), RBI (20), 2 K, RS -- .203

Billo 6 IP, ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 5 K, HRA -- 1.48 ERA
C. White IP, H, 2 BB, K -- 7.11 ERA
Rogers 1 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, BB, K, HRA -- L, 1-1, 2.40 ERA

* Another good Greg Billo start went for naught as the Bandits got a walkoff homer in the 9th. KC stranded 2 in the 1st and Billo was victimized for a leadoff homer in the bottom of the inning. Brett Eibner tied it with a leadoff homer in the 4th for his 9th of the season. Billo and Bandits SP Boone Whiting dueled from there until relenting to the bullpen in the 7th. The Cougars had a double play end a potential chance in the 9th, and Nick Rogers gave up a 2-out, 2-run walkoff shot in the 9th to LF Chris Edmondson to end it. KC is 21-14. A pivotal game 3 is Monday as the teams are tied for the division lead.

Kane County OPS leaders
1. OF Brian Fletcher .961 -- .339/.395/.566, 34 RS, 20 2B*, 3 3B, 8 HR, 39 RBI*, 16 BB/44 K, 4/7 SB, 5 E in 60 G/221 ABs -- stayed solid with .976 OPS in July, let's move him up to Wilmington for the last month
2. IF Cheslor Cuthbert .866 -- .328/.381/.485, 23 RS, 9 2B, 3B, 7 HR, 39 RBI*, 19 BB/33 K, 1/1 SB, 4 E in 53 G/204 ABs -- .911 OPS in July was best this season, also hit .356 with 23 RBI in month, .400 OBP
3. OF Brett Eibner .751 -- .203/.326/.425, 27 RS, 5 2B, 3B, 9 HR*, 20 RBI, 26 BB/49 K, 1/4 SB, 1 E in 43 G/153 ABs -- only hit .179 with .664 OPS in July, but did put up .343 OBP in month
Others -- IF Yowill Espinal .530 (.478 OPS in July was his worst yet)...nobody else than top 3 on active roster are over a .700 OPS.

Kane County WHIP leaders
1. Greg Billo 1.01 -- 8*-2, 1.48 ERA, 1 SV, 4 HRA, 21 BB/97 K* in 21 G (12 starts) and 103 1/3 IP -- posted 1.19 ERA and .217 OAV in July, is sitting at .221 OAV overall
2. Chase Boruff 1.03 -- 4-1, 1.99, 3 SV, HRA, 14 BB/45 K in 30 games and 49 2/3 IP -- 3.38 ERA in July was first month for him over 2 this season, .228 OAV in July, .206 overall
3. Chas Byrne 1.09 -- 3-1, 3.33, 8 SV*, 5 HRA, 9 BB/52 K in 31 G and 51 1/3 IP -- 2.93 ERA, .246 OAV in July, is at .236 OAV overall
Others -- Nick Rogers 1.07 (only 15 IP)...Leonel Santiago 1.10 (7-7, 3.06, 6 HRA, 19 BB/92 K in 18 starts and 108 2/3 IP, had a rough July with ERA over 4)...Jason Adam 1.24 (4-6, 5.07, 9 HRA, 21 BB/57 K in 14 starts and 71 IP, his numbers also headed south in July with 6.84 ERA and .301 OAV, sits at .245 OAV overall)...Leondy Perez 1.31 (3-11, 3.73, 6 HRA, 21 BB/77 K in 20 starts and 115 2/3 IP, another guy with poor July)...Yordano Ventura 1.36 (2-3, 5.03, 6 HRA, 18 BB/55 K in 12 starts and 53 2/3 IP, his numbers DID improve in July)

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 7, Ogden 2 (Sat.)

SS Liberto 3-3, BB, RS, SB (8), CS -- .384
RF Elder 2-4, 2B (5), 3B (3), 2 RBI (9), 2 K, 2 RS -- .351
DH Moreno 1-3, BB, HR (5), 2 RBI (18), RS -- .246
1B Espy 1-4, RBI (22), K -- .310
3B Threlkeld 1-4, RBI (16), RS, SB (2) -- .264
CF Chism 0-4, SF, RBI (20), 3 K -- .264

A. Brooks 6 IP, 2 ER, 8 H, BB, 4 K, WP -- W, 3-1, 3.92 ERA
Middendorf IP, H, K, WP -- 6.35 ERA
Carl 2 IP, 3 K -- 0.51 ERA

* Five early runs helped the Chukars to the win. Mark Threlkeld singled in a run in the 1st, Tyler Chism hit a sac fly in the 2nd, Chris Elder followed with a 2-run triple and Richard Espy hit an RBI single to make it 5-0 IF. Ogden got a steal of home in the 3rd and then plated a run in the 4th to trim it to 5-2. Henry Moreno blasted a 2-run shot (his 5th) in the 5th to stretch it to 7-2, and it came down to the Chukar pitching from there. Edwin Carl was his usual lockdown self with 2 perfect IP to end it. That was the last game of the first half.

Chukars 13, Ogden 6

DH Moreno 4-5, 2 2B (7), 3B, 3 RBI (21), 3 RS -- .268
SS Martinez 3-4, BB, RBI (8), 2 RS, SB (3) -- .242
CF Davis 2-3, BB, SF, 2 RBI (24), 2 RS -- .340
LF Fradejas 2-4, BB, RBI (4), RS -- .263
C Escobar 2-4, BB, RBI (10), 2 RS -- .347
1B Espy 0-3, 2 HBP, RBI (23), 2 K, RS, E (7) -- .303
RF Elder 0-4, BB, RBI (10) -- .317

Peacock 5 IP, UER, 2 H, BB, 6 K -- W, 2-3, 3.30 ERA
Penny 2 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 4 K -- 11.30 ERA
Jo. Sanchez 1 1/3 IP, ER, 3 H, 2 K -- 6.52 ERA

* A 9-run rally keyed the Chukars' win Sunday. A wild pitch scored IF's first run in the 3rd and Ogden tied it in the 5th off Brian Peacock. A Chris Elder groundout scored the go-ahead run in the 5th and the Chukars followed with a monster 2-out rally, as Henry Moreno hit a 3-run triple, Edul Escobar RBI single, a run-scoring wild pitch, a 2-run Ogden error, and Richard Espy bases-loaded HBP that made it 10-1. Runey Davis added a sac fly in the 6th. Ogden scored 4 in the 8th off Robert Penny and Jose Sanchez. Davis singled in a run and Adrian Martinez hit an RBI groundout in the 8th. Sanchez allowed a run before closing it out in the 9th. IF is 1-0. A 2-game home set with the Casper Ghosts (Rookie Rockies) starts Monday.

Idaho Falls OPS leaders
1. OF Chris Elder 1.063 -- .317/.404/.659, 8 RS, 5 2B, 3 3B, HR, 10 RBI, 6 BB/11 K, 0/1 SB, 1 E in 11 G/41 ABs -- only 11 games but so far so good for non-drafted free agent
2. OF Runey Davis 1.043 -- .340/.443/.600, 25 RS, 8 2B, 3 3B, 4 HR, 24 RBI*, 18 BB/33 K, 5/7 SB, 1 E in 30 G/100 ABs -- nice first full month in organization, was '09 Cubs draftee
3. IF Mike Liberto .912 -- .372/.451/.462, 15 RS, 5 2B, 3B, 7 RBI, 10 BB/11 K, 8/9 SB, 4 E in 22 G/78 ABs
Others -- C Edul Escobar .897...1B Richard Espy .882 (4 HR, 23 RBI)...OF Tyler Chism .792 (5 HR, 20 RBI, 5/6 SB)...3B Mark Threlkeld .704

Idaho Falls WHIP leaders
1. Edwin Carl 0.51 -- 1-1, 0.51 ERA, 2 SV, 3 BB/35 K in 13 games and 17 2/3 IP -- that's domination
2. Brian Peacock 1.10 -- 2-3, 3.30, 1 SV, 3 HRA, 7 BB/48 K* in 8 games (7 starts) and 43 2/3 IP -- good K rate and also excellent K/BB
3. Aaron Brooks 1.10 -- 3*-1, 3.92, 3 HRA, 4 BB/34 K in 8 games (6 starts) and 39 IP -- off to a good start
Others -- Brennon Martin 1.12 (2-2, 3.86, 8 HRA, 3 BB/33 K in 7 starts and 42 IP)...Spencer Patton 1.61 (4.18 ERA, 1 SV, 11 BB/31 K in 23 2/3 IP)...Kellen Moen 1.68 (2-1, 7.03, 10 BB/28 K in 24 1/3 IP)

Rookie - Burlington: Pulaski 4, B-Royals 2 (comp. of Sat. game)

CF Conner 3-5, 2B (3), RBI (6) -- .286
RF Bonifacio 2-5, 2 K, SB (3), picked off -- .296
2B J. Rodriguez 2-3, BB, K, 2 RS, SB (10) -- .277
Burlington stranded 12.

Baez 0 IP, H -- 7.29 ERA
Graffeo 3 1/3 IP, ER, H, 3 BB, 4 K -- 1.14 ERA
R. Brown 2 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, K, balk -- L, 0-1, 3.09 ERA
Gonzalez 2 IP, H, 3 K -- 6.35 ERA

* Pulaski took command in the 6th and the Royals didn't have the answer. Play was suspended after a Pulaski leadoff double off Angel Baez in the 1st. Cameron Conner hit an RBI double in the 3rd but Nick Graffeo gave up the tying run in the bottom of the inning. The Royals left 2 in scoring position in the 4th and Rudy Brown allowed a 2-run triple and balked in a run in the 6th. An error scored a Royals run in the 7th, but they left the bases full in the 9th.

B-Royals 4, Pulaski 3 (7/reg. Sun. game)

CF Adams 3-4, 2B (4), HR (2), RBI (5), K, 2 RS -- .293
SS Antonio 2-2, HBP, SF, HR (4), 3 RBI (20), RS, CS (3) -- .292

Cantrell 4 1/3 IP, UER, 5 H, BB, 3 K, E (2) -- 5.46 ERA
Graham 2 2/3 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 2 H, 2 BB, 5 K, 2 WP -- W, 3-1, 3.25 ERA

* The Royals rebounded from the earlier loss to get their own win on Pulaski Sunday. Lane Adams led off the 3rd with his 2nd homer of the season but Eric Cantrell gave the run back in the 3rd. Mike Antonio hit a sac fly in the 5th but Tyler Graham couldn't hold the lead as he allowed the tying run in the 6th. Antonio came up with 1 on and 2 out in the 7th and came up clutch with his 4th homer to make it 4-2. Graham allowed a run in the 7th but left the tying run at third to finish it. Burlington is 15-26. The series ends Monday. I'll wrap up Burlington's month-end stats on Monday, as they don't have them updated from the late game yet.

Rookie - AZL: Royals 7, Cubs 2

CF Gore 3-3, BB, 2 RBI (12), RS -- .364
C Bello 2-4, RBI (8), 2 RS -- .303
RF DelGuidice 1-3, SF, RBI (22), RS -- .415
DH Cuckovich 1-5 -- .329

Jon. Rodriguez IP, H, K -- 0.00 ERA
A. Williams 4 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 4 H, K, HRA, 2 E -- W, 1-1, 4.50 ERA
S. Rosario 4 IP, 2 H, 2 BB, 5 K -- SV, 1, 8.18 ERA

* The Royals scored 7 unanswered runs to overcome the Cubs. Ali Williams allowed runs in the 2nd and 4th as the Cubs took a 2-0 lead but the Royals took command in the 5th. Terrance Gore hit a 2-run single and errors scored Nick DelGuidice and Gore to make it 4-2 Royals. Rainier Bello singled in a run in the 6th but the Royals lost a chance at more runs by leaving the bases full. An error and Nick DelGuidice sac fly in the 8th padded the lead to 7-2. Sergio Rosario pitched a scoreless final 4 innings. The Royals are 13-20.

AZL OPS leaders
1. IF Nick DelGuidice 1.146 -- .415/.458/.689, 29 RS*, 13 2B*, 2 3B, 4 HR*, 22 RBI*, 8 BB/10 K, 2/3 SB, 6 E in 28 G/106 ABs -- nice start to his career
2. OF D'Andre Toney 1.062 -- .360/.448/.613, 17 RS, 6 2B, 2 3B, 3 HR, 14 RBI, 7 BB/14 K, 5/14 SB, 0 E in 23 G/75 ABs -- has been sneaky good other than in his SB instincts
3. OF Terrance Gore .907 -- .364/.453/.455, 10 RS, 2 2B, 3B, 12 RBI, 7 BB/11 K, 9/9 SB, 1 E in 18 G/44 ABs -- also doing well, albeit in limited time until recently
Others -- 2B Adrian Morales .901 (.492 OBP, 16 BB/6 K, 6 E in 14 G/44 ABs, OBP is impressive with .295 BA, but it IS only 44 ABs)...IF Nick Cuckovich .842 (.442 OBP, 12 BB/17 K, 16/18 SB*, 3 E in 17 G/70 ABs, has been a bright spot)...OF Jerico Blanco .707 (4 BB/24 K, 2 HR, 18 RBI in 30 G/104 ABs)

AZL WHIP leaders
1. Andrew Stueve 0.93 -- 1-1, 1.44 ERA, 3 SV*, 4 BB/34 K* in 13 games (1 start) and 31 1/3 IP, has been lockdown out of pen, we'll see if he gets more starts
2. Julio Morales 1.45 -- 3*-1, 4.09, 12 BB/22 K in 8 G (1 start) and 22 IP
3. Ali Wiliams 1.55 -- 1-1, 4.50, HRA, 5 BB/17 K in 8 G (1 start) and 22 IP, not good for a 1.55 WHIP to be in top 3, but they DO play in Arizona
Others -- Sam Runion 1.43 (only 7 2/3 IP)...Eric Diaz 1.58 (leads team with 4 losses and 36 IP)...Brian Edelen 1.88 (10 BB/32 K, 7 HRA* in 26 2/3 IP)...Stephen Lumpkins 1.96 (7.13 ERA, 16 BB/18 K in 24 IP, rough first month as a pro)...Christian Witt 2.00 (9.00 ERA, HRA, 4 BB/14 K in 16 IP, ditto)...Fernando Cruz 2.42 (transition to pitching not so fluid after first 12 IP)...Cesar Ogando 3.00 (0-3, 15.63, 3 HRA, 14 BB/12 K in 6 starts/12 2/3 IP, probably not what the Royals were hoping for out of their top draft pick to sign thus far (6th rd))

Royals on the Farm 7/30

2011-07-30T21:28:00.002-05:00

One-time Pipeline mainstay Mike Aviles is no longer a Royal, as he was shipped up to Boston (I hear bagpipes) for IF Yamaico Navarro and advanced-A RP Kendal Volz. Navarro will stay with KC and Volz will go to Wilmington. I think it was a good deal. Per the team site story, tho, that may be KC's only deadline trade. I was hoping they'd make room for Giavotella.

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 5, Oklahoma City 4

1B Ka'aihue 2-4, RBI (48), K -- .281
LF Lough 2-3, BB, 2 RS, SB (12) -- .317
DH Robinson 1-4, 2 RBI (70) -- .310
2B Giavotella 1-3, BB, K, RS -- .334
C S. Perez 0-4 -- .188, all he does is hit grand slams, none tonight

Mazzaro 3 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 2 H, 7 BB, 4 K -- 4.97 ERA, ejected in 4th
Miner 2 2/3 IP, H, 2 BB, 2 K -- W, 1-0, 2.16 ERA
Herrera 2/3 IP, BB, K -- 0.00 ERA
Chavez 2 IP, 3 K -- SV, 13, 3.26 ERA

* A RedHawks miscue helped Omaha win the series opener. An OKC error scored a run in the 1st and a Clint Robinson RBI groundout made it 2-0 Chasers. Robinson singled home another run in the 3rd with Kila Ka'aihue doing the same to make it 4-0 for Vin Mazzaro. Mazzaro walked the bases loaded but escaped the jam in the 3rd. He walked 2 more in the 4th and had 2 out and 2 on when an RBI single scored a run and yet another walk loaded the bases and resulted in Mazzaro's ejection. Zach Miner made the unexpected entry into the game and gave up a 3-run game-tying double before ending the inning. The Chasers drew 2 1-out walks in the 7th and a David Lough single scored a run on a RedHawk error. Kelvin Herrera came in to strand 2 in the 7th and Jesse Chavez pitched two solid innings to finish it. Omaha is 58-49. Game 2 is Sunday. Mike Montgomery will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Springfield 11, Naturals 5

2B Colon 3-5 -- .262
DH Romak 2-3, BB, 2 HR (18), 2 RBI (53), 2 RS -- .263
CF Robinson 1-5, RBI (18), 2 K, RS, SB (41) -- .273
RF Myers 0-3, SF, RBI (28), K -- .250
SS Bianchi 0-3, BB, K -- .274

Jeffress 3 2/3 IP, 5 ER, 5 H, 5 BB, 2 K, WP -- L, 0-1, 6.75 ERA
Hardy 2 1/3 IP, ER, 3 H, 3 BB, K, WP -- 2.00 ERA
Dobies 2 IP, 5 R (2 ER), 3 H, 2 BB, K, HRA -- 9.00 ERA

* Springfield pimpslapped the Naturals with 11 runs for a second straight game to roll once more. The Cards scored a run in the 1st but the Naturals tied it in the 2nd on a leadoff homer by Jamie Romak for his 17th of the season. NWA stranded 2 in the 3rd and the Cards responded with 3 runs, then another in the 4th to make it 5-1. Derrick Robinson singled in a run in the 5th and Wil Myers added a sac fly to cut it to 5-3. The Cards scored a run in the 6th but the Naturals got a run on a passed ball in the 7th. Springfield greeted Andrew Dobies with 3 runs in the 7th and Romak led off the 8th with his 18th homer and 2nd of the game. The Cards poured on 2 more runs in the 8th to finish the scoring. NW Arkansas is 18-17. Chris Dwyer will start Sunday's game.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 4, Kinston 1

DH Ferguson 3-4, RBI (31), K, RS, CS (6) -- .227
3B Whittleman 2-4, K, RS -- .239
1B Stovall 2-3, HBP, RS -- .252
SS Hall 1-3, 2 RBI (8), K -- .241
CF Merrifield 1-3, BB, 2B (25), K, RS -- .263, 12-game hit streak

Mariot 7 2/3 IP, UER, 5 H, BB, 6 K, E -- W, 7-3, 2.89 ERA
Pimentel 1 1/3 IP, 2 K -- SV, 1, 3.55 ERA

* The Rocks finally got it started in the 6th to bring home the win for Mike Mariot. Kinston scored a run in the 1st off Mariot. The Rocks stranded 2 in the 4th but a throwing error scored the tying run in the 6th. Gerard Hall hit a 2-run single in the 7th and Tim Ferguson singled in a run in the 8th to make it 4-1. Elisaul Pimentel took over for Mariot with 1 on and 2 out in the 8th and finished it. Wilmington is 13-22. Noel Arguelles starts game 3 Sunday.

A - Kane County: Cougars 5, Quad Cities 4

DH Franco 2-5, K, RS -- .249
3B Cuthbert 2-4, RS, SB -- .328
SS Calixte 1-3, BB, GS (2), 4 RBI (24), 2 K, RS, E (13) -- .220
LF Fletcher 0-4, RS -- .329

Garrido 5 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, 2 BB, 2 K, WP -- W, 1-3, 5.94 ERA
J. Mitchell 3 IP, 2 H, BB, 2 K -- 2.25 ERA
Byrne IP, H, 3 K, WP -- SV, 8, 3.33 ERA

* The Cougars cranked out some runs in the 1st and made 'em stick. An error scored the Cougars' 1st run in the 1st and Orlando Calixte slugged a 1-out grand slam for his 2nd homer of the season to make it 5-0. Santiago Garrido gave up a run in the 3rd and 2 in the 4th, then another in the 5th to cut the lead down to the bare bones at 1. Jason Mitchell worked around a leadoff triple in the 6th then stranded 2 in the 8th. Chas Byrne struck out the side around a single in the 9th. KC is 21-13. Game 2 is Sunday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 8, Ogden 4 (Fri.)

3B Threlkeld 3-4, 3B (2), 2 RBI (15), E (8) -- .265, it's a little Berman-y, but how about "My Life With the (Threlkeld) Cult" for a nickname, huh? Yeah, it references an industrial metal band, but it works.
LF Elder 2-4, BB, 2B (4), HR, 2 RBI (7), 2 RS, assist at second -- .333, first pro homer
1B Espy 2-4, BB, 3B, RBI (21), 3 RS -- .312, Eazy Es at it again, tho Escobar didn't play
CF Chism 2-5, RBI (19), 2 K, RS -- .272
RF Davis 0-2, BB, SF, RBI (22), K, SB (5) -- .330

Avinazar 3 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, BB, 4 K, HRA -- 9.00 ERA
Dooley 4 IP, UER, H, BB, 3 K -- W, 2-3, 7.58 ERA
Patton 2 IP, H, BB, 3 K -- SV, 1, 4.18 ERA

* The Chukars scored 4 late runs to defeat the Raptors. Ogden scored 2 in the 1st off Willian Avinazar but the Chukars got 1 back on a Mark Threlkeld RBI single. Avinazar grooved one for a solo homer in the 2nd but the offense picked him up in the 3rd with 3 runs on a Richard Espy RBI single, Threlkeld RBI single and Runey Davis sac fly. Jonathan Dooley allowed the tying run in the 7th thanks in part to a Threlkeld error, but Chris Elder picked a fine time for his 1st pro homer as his 2-run shot and an Espy triple followed by a balk made it 7-4 Chukars. Tyler Chism tacked on an RBI single in the 8th and Spencer Patton stranded 2 in the 9th for his 1st pro save. IF is 16-21. The Chukars lead late again tonight.

Rookie - Burlington: suspended

* The game was suspended in the 1st and the teams will play a doubleheader on Sunday.

Rookie - AZL: Mariners 5, Royals 4

2B Garcia 2-3, BB, K, RS, SB (7), E (12) -- .270
RF DelGuidice 1-3, HR (4), 3 RBI (21), K, RS -- .417
1B Gaylord 0-4, RBI (17), RS -- .228
LF Terrance Gore had an assist at second.

E. Diaz 5 IP, 5 H, BB, 3 K -- 5.75 ERA
Runion 2 IP, BB, 4 K -- 1.17 ERA
Edelbrock 2 IP, 5 R (4 ER), 5 H, BB -- L, 0-1, 18.00 ERA, rocky pro debut

* A pitcher's duel became a late slugfest with the Mariners emerging triumphant. The Mariners stranded 2 twice and the Royals straggled a few runners along as the game stayed tied at 0 into the 8th. Casey Edelbrock made his pro debut for the Royals in the 8th and three straight doubles gave the M's a foothold on the lead. When the dust settled, the Mariners had scored 5 runs and only an assist by Terrance Gore to throw out a runner at second ended the rally. The Royals made a torrid comeback in the 9th as Brian Gaylord hit an RBI forceout and Nick DelGuidice hit a 2-out, 3-run homer for his 4th as a pro. Travis Lane followed with a double but Jerrell Allen grounded out to end the game. The Royals are 12-20.

Royals on the Farm 7/29 -- Melville throws a gem, Salvador slams another granny

2011-07-29T20:51:00.005-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 10, Albuquerque 1

C S. Perez 2-4, GS, 5 RBI, K, RS -- .250, that's 3 grand slams in a week
DH Robinson 2-4, RBI (68), 2 RS -- .311
3B Falu 2-4, RBI (28), K -- .296
LF Lough 1-5, HR (6), RBI (48), K, RS -- .314
2B Giavotella 1-4, SF, 2B (31), RBI (67), RS -- .334
CF Dyson 1-3, S, 2B (7), RBI (13), K -- .286
RF Cain 0-3, BB, 2 K, RS -- .319
1B Ka'aihue 0-1, 3 BB, K, 2 RS -- .278

O'Sullivan 6 IP, ER, 3 H, 2 BB, 5 K, HRA -- W, 3-2, 3.86 ERA
Herrera IP, H, K -- 0.00 ERA
Teaford IP, nothing -- 3.34 ERA
Tejeda IP, 2 H, BB, 2 K -- 3.52 ERA

* The Chasers turned on the jets late to leave the Isotopes in the dust. David Lough hit his 6th homer for a solo shot in the 1st. After the Isotopes tied it in the 3rd, Johnny Giavotella regained the lead in the bottom of that inning on a sac fly. Jarrod Dyson doubled in a run in the 5th and Salvador Perez made his 1st AAA homer a big one with a grand slam in the 6th to blow the game open. Clint Robinson, Perez and Irving Falu added RBI singles in the 7th to make it 10-1. Robinson Tejeda stranded the bases full in the 9th. Omaha is 57-49. Vin Mazzaro starts the first of 4 at the Oklahoma City RedHawks (47-59, AAA Astros) on Saturday.

AA - NW Arkansas: Springfield 11, Naturals 4

C Pina 2-3, BB, 2B, 3 RBI -- .333
SS Colon 2-4, HR (8), RBI (54), RS -- .257
1B Seratelli 2-4, 2B (8), K, 2 RS, SB (29) -- .291
CF Robinson 0-5 -- .275
RF Myers 1-2, 2 BB -- .253
2B Bianchi 0-4, 2 K -- .277

W. Smith 4 IP, 9 ER, 10 H, 2 BB, K -- L, 9-8, 4.54 ERA, long way from a no-no
M. Santiago 3 IP, 2 H, BB, 2 K -- 1.21 ERA
Lebron IP, 2 ER, H, BB, K, HRA -- 3.97 ERA

* A 7-run inning was a killer for the Naturals Friday. Christian Colon hit his 8th homer of the season in the 1st but Springfield got 2 off Will Smith in the 2nd. Manny Pina hit a 2-run single in the 4th and the Nats snatched back a 3-2 lead. NW Arkansas stranded 2 in the 5th and the Cards went to work on Smith, as 6 hits and 2 walks scored 7 runs off Smith and Mario Santiago. Pina hit an RBI double in the 8th but the damage was done. The Cards added a 2-run homer off Willy Lebron for good measure in the 8th. NWA is 18-16. Game 2 is Saturday as Jeremy Jeffress starts.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Blue Rocks 4, Kinston 0 (2-hitter)

SS Mertins 2-4, K, RS -- .267
3B Whittleman 1-2, 2 BB, HR (17), 3 RBI (54), RS -- .236
CF Merrifield 1-4, RS -- .262, 11-game hit streak
DH Jul. Rodriguez 0-3 -- .294

Melville 7 IP, 2 H, BB, 5 K -- W, 8-6, 3.90 ERA
Caldwell 2 IP, 3 K -- 0.00 ERA

* Tim Melville had a great start and the Rocks took the opener from the Tribe. John Whittleman smacked a 3-run homer in the 1st for his 17th of the season to hand Melville the lead, and that was all he needed. He took a no-hitter into the 5th and a run-scoring error made it 4-0 in the bottom of the 5th. Melville and Allen Caldwell retired the last 14 Indians after Melville allowed back-to-back singles to start the 5th. Wilmington is 12-22. Mike Mariot pitches game 2 Saturday.

A - Kane County: Cougars 5, Cedar Rapids 1

2B Franco 3-4, 2B (10), 3B (4), RBI (14), RS -- .246
RF Beltre 2-4, RBI (28), RS, CS (8) -- .248
DH Aparicio 2-4, RBI (14), CS (4) -- .179
CF Eibner 2-4, RS -- .200, back to the Mendoza line
SS Calixte 1-3, SF, RBI (20) -- .218
3B Cuthbert 1-4 -- .325

L. Perez 7 IP, UER, 5 H, BB, 4 K -- W, 3-11, 3.73 ERA
Boruff 2 IP, 2 H, K -- 1.99 ERA

* A 3-run rally helped Leondy Perez bring home his 3rd win of the season. Julio Aparicio hit an RBI single in the 2nd but the Kernels tied it off Perez in the 4th. Orlando Calixte hit a sac fly in the 4th and the Cougars pieced together a rally in the 5th on an Angel Franco RBI triple, Geulin Beltre RBI single and run-scoring passed ball that made it 5-1. Perez and Chase Boruff nailed it down from there. The Cougars are 20-13. A key 3-game set at the Quad Cities River Bandits (19-13, A Cards, 1/2 game back of KC) starts Saturday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: off day Thursday

* A 3-game home set with the Ogden Raptors (22-14, Rookie Dodgers) starts tonight.

Rookie - Burlington: Bluefield 7, B-Royals 1 (11)

SS Trapp 2-3, BB, HBP, 2B (10), RBI (28), K, SB (16) -- .302
3B Bringas 1-3, HBP, K, RS -- .208
LF Brooks 1-4, K -- .235

Ridings 6 IP, ER, 5 H, 5 K -- 3.10 ERA
Pizziconi 4 IP, 2 H, BB, 4 K -- 5.91 ERA
Ferguson 2/3 IP, 6 R (3 ER), 5 H, 2 BB -- L, 0-1, 5.30 ERA
Gonzalez 1/3 IP, nothing -- 9.82 ERA

* Bluefield ran away and hid with it in the 11th. Both teams got their only run in the first 9 innings in the 3rd, as the Jays scored off Matt Ridings and the Royals got a 2-out Justin Trapp RBI single. Ridings and Andrea Pizziconi held the Jays in check thereafter, but the Royals couldn't generate any offense either off Tyler Ybarra and Mitchell Taylor. The Royals left Trapp at third in the 9th, and then stranded 2 in the 10th. Andrew Ferguson gave up a leadoff double in the 11th and it was downhill from there as a 2-run Derek Hamblen error at third aided a 6-run Jays rally. The Royals stranded 1 in the 11th. Burlington is 14-24. A 3-run set at the Pulaski Mariners (18-20) starts Saturday.

Rookie - AZL: Brewers 6, Royals 4

1B Gaylord 3-4, SF, 2B (5), 2 RBI (16) -- .236
3B Morales 2-4, BB, HR, RBI (6), RS, E (5) -- .306
2B DelGuidice 2-4, HBP, RS, SB (2) -- .420
LF Allen 1-4, BB, 2B (3), RBI (6) -- .198
DH Cuckovich 1-4, BB, 2B (5), K, 2 RS, SB (16) -- .361
The Royals stranded 13.

Stueve 4 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, BB, 3 K, WP -- L, 1-1, 1.44 ERA
Edelen 2 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, 2 BB, 3 K, HRA -- 8.44 ERA
F. Cruz 2 IP, UER, BB, 2 K, WP -- 13.50 ERA
Bangs IP, BB, 2 K -- 6.00 ERA

* The Royals doubled up the Brewers in the hits department, 12-6, but the runs department was another story. Nick Cuckovich and Brian Gaylord hit back-to-back doubles in the 1st to give the Royals a 1-0 lead. The Brewers tied it in the 2nd but the Royals regained the lead on a Gaylord sac fly in the 3rd. The Brewers scored 2 in the 4th off Andrew Stueve to take the lead, and the Royals made a habit of stranding runners. Two in the 4th, 2 in the 5th, 2 in the 6th. The Brewers got 2 more runs in the 6th and 1 in the 7th to make it 6-2. Jerrell Allen hit an RBI double in the 7th and Adrian Morales hit a solo homer in the 8th (his 1st) before the Royals stranded 2. They didn't generate any more runs. The Royals are 12-19.

Royals on the Farm 7/28

2011-07-28T20:15:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Albuquerque 2, Storm Chasers 0 (3-hitter)

RF Cain 1-4, K -- .322
LF Lough 1-4 -- .315
CF Dyson 1-2, HBP, SB (28) -- .285
2B Giavotella 0-4 -- .335
DH Robinson 0-4 -- .309
C S. Perez 0-4, K -- .125

Mendoza 6 1/3 IP, 2 UER, 4 H, 4 BB, 6 K -- L, 7-4, 2.37 ERA
Pucetas 2 2/3 IP, 4 K -- 5.49 ERA

* Dana Eveland hurled a gem at the Chasers on Thursday. Albuquerque scraped together 2 runs in the 5th and Eveland made 'em stick. Jarrod Dyson got to third in the 8th but that was as close as the Chasers got to plating a run. Omaha is 56-49. The series ends Friday with Sean O'Sullivan starting.

AA - NW Arkansas: Tulsa 5, Naturals 1

RF Myers 1-4, RBI (27) -- .251
CF Robinson 1-3, S, RS, SB (41) -- .279
SS Colon 1-4, K -- .254

Ed. Garcia 4 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, BB, 4 K, 2 HRA -- L, 0-1, 3.27 ERA
Lafferty 3 IP, 2 UER, 3 H, 2 K -- 0.00 ERA, AA debut
Dobies 2 IP, H, K -- 9.00 ERA

* Five Driller pitchers combined to shut down NW Arkansas. Edgar Garcia gave the Drillers all they needed with a 2-run homer in the 2nd. Another homer in the 4th made it 3-0. Brendan Lafferty gave up a 2-run double in the 6th, and the Naturals only had 2 singles to their credit entering the 9th. Wil Myers singled in a run in the 9th to spoil the shutout but the Naturals would leave the bases loaded. NWA is 18-14. A 4-game set at the Springfield Cardinals (13-19) starts Friday. No announced starter on the team site.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Potomac 7, Blue Rocks 5

C Jul. Rodriguez 1-4, HR, 3 RBI (5), K, RS -- .357, Betemit trade has worked out OK so far
DH Van Stratten 1-4, 2B (5), RBI (15), RS -- .309
3B Whittleman 1-3, BB, RBI (51) -- .235
CF Merrifield 1-4, K, SB (20) -- .262
RF Testa 1-4, 3B (4), 2 K, RS -- .265

Marks 7 IP, 4 ER, 8 H, 2 BB, 7 K, 2 HRA, pickoff -- L, 5-8, 4.73 ERA
Paukovits 2 IP, 3 ER, 3 H, 2 BB, K, WP -- 3.77 ERA

* A 3-run 9th made it a little closer than it really was for the Rocks. The game got off to a good start for the Rocks as Carlo Testa tripled, scored on a Nick Van Stratten double, and John Whittleman singled in a run to make it 2-0 Wilmington. Justin Marks had stranded 2 in the 1st but gave up 3 runs in the 2nd. He held it at 3-2 until giving up a homer in the 7th, and Bryan Paukovits gave up a 2-run double in the 8th. Paukovits allowed another run in the 9th to make it 7-2. Julio Rodriguez hit a 2-out, 3-run homer in the 9th for his 1st as a Royals farmhand, but the Rocks weren't able to capitalize on the blast. Wilmington is 11-22. A 3-game home set with the Kinston Indians (18-14) starts Friday. IF Joey Lewis was put on the DL with a thigh bruise. Tim Melville will start Friday.

A - Kane County: Cougars 6, Cedar Rapids 5

1B Kuebler 2-4, 2B (9), K -- .204
2B Espinal 2-3, BB, RS, SB (10) -- .189
3B Cuthbert 1-4, HR (7), 3 RBI (39), RS -- .327
C David 0-3, 2 BB, RBI (6) -- .259
CF Eibner 1-3, BB, 2 K, RS -- .192
LF Fletcher 0-3, BB, RS -- .335

Adam 5 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, BB, K, 2 WP -- W, 4-6, 5.07 ERA
Giovenco 2 IP, ER, 3 H, K, WP -- 3.38 ERA
Rogers 2 IP, H, BB -- SV, 4, 1.35 ERA

* The Cougars made two 3-run rallies stand up against the Kernels. Back-to-back triples and a single gave Cedar Rapids a 2-0 lead in the 1st. Cheslor Cuthbert clubbed a 3-run homer in the bottom of the 1st, however, for his 7th homer to make it 3-2. The Kernels tied it in the 2nd, but Kevin David took a bases-loaded walk and a 2-run error in the 2nd made it 6-3 Kane County. The Kernels scored 1 in the 4th then got a run in the 7th, but Cuthbert threw a runner out at the plate in the inning and Nick Rogers pitched out the final two innings for his 4th save. KC is 19-13. Leondy Perez starts the series finale Friday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Missoula 5, Chukars 4

SS Martinez 2-4, 2B (4), 2 K, SB (2) -- .233
CF Davis 1-3, HBP, 3B (3), 2 RBI (21), 2 K -- .337
DH Mateo 1-4, RBI (19), K -- .319
2B Piterson 1-5, RBI (5), K -- .200

Moen 4 IP, 4 R (3 ER), 5 H, 2 BB, 2 K, E (2) -- 7.03 ERA
N. Johnson IP, K -- 5.14 ERA
Cuevas 2/3 IP, 2 BB -- 2.79 ERA
Jo. Sanchez 1 1/3 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, K, balk -- L, 2-2, 6.50 ERA
Carl IP, K -- 0.57 ERA

* Idaho Falls forged a 4-run comeback but Missoula quickly regained the lead and won it. The Osprey took command with 4 in the 4th off Kellen Moen. The Chukars halved the lead with a 2-run Runey Davis triple in the 6th, and Luis Piterson and Daniel Mateo singled in runs in the 7th to tie the game. Missoula loaded the bases with 2 out in the 7th off Jose Sanchez and Sanchez balked in the deciding run. The last 8 Chukars went down. IF is 15-21. They have today off.

Rookie - Burlington: Bluefield 12, B-Royals 2

2B Trapp 2-4, BB, 3B (4), K, RS -- .294
SS Antonio 1-3, SF, RBI (17), K, E (15) -- .282
LF S. Brooks 1-4, RBI, K -- .233
DH Shin 0-2, 2 BB, K, RS -- .236

Yambati 2/3 IP, 7 ER, 6 H, BB, K, pickoff -- L, 0-5, 18.85 ERA, um, Robinson isn't cutting it
Culver 2 IP, 5 R (4 ER), 3 H, 4 BB, 4 K, HRA -- 8.14 ERA
Hall 4 1/3 IP, H, BB, 4 K -- 8.35 ERA
R. Brown 2 IP, 2 H -- 2.18 ERA

* An 8-run 1st torpedoed the Royals on Thursday. Robinson Yambati lasted 2 outs and gave up 6 runs in the process, then Malcom Culver proceeded to give up a 2-run homer to the first batter he faced to make it 8-0 Jays. Justin Trapp tripled and scored on a Mike Antonio sac fly in the 1st but Bluefield shot back with 3 in the 2nd. Culver allowed another run in the 3rd to make it 12-1. Steven Brooks singled in a run in the 7th and that was the end of the valiant comeback. Burlington is 14-23. The Royals will try to avoid a sweep on Friday.

Rookie - AZL: Royals 9, A's 4

DH Cuckovich 2-4, BB, RBI (8), SB (15) -- .368
RF Blanco 2-5, 2B (5), RBI (18), K, CS -- .286
LF Allen 2-5, 3B, 2 K, 2 RS -- .195
SS Arteaga 1-5, 3 RBI (15), K -- .235
1B Gaylord 1-4, BB, HR (3), 2 RBI (14), 2 RS -- .218
2B DelGuidice 1-2, 2 BB, S, 2B (13), RBI (18), RS -- .417
CF Gore 1-2, 2 BB, 2 RS, SB (8), OF assist at third -- .382

Lumpkins 4 1/3 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, 3 BB, 4 K -- 7.13 ERA
J. Morales 4 IP, H, 2 BB, 6 K -- W, 3-1, 4.09 ERA
Witt 2/3 IP, H -- 9.00 ERA

* The Royals cranked up the offense in the 7th to leave the Athletics in the dust. Stephen Lumpkins gave up a 3-run double in the 1st but Terrance Gore threw the batter out at third to end the inning on the play. Jerico Blanco got a run back with an RBI single in the 2nd but Lumpkins gave it right back in the 2nd to make it 4-1. Humberto Arteaga drove in a run with a 3rd inning groundout and the score stayed 4-2 A's into the 7th. The Royals took walks to load the bases with 1 out in the 7th, and Arteaga singled in 2 runs and Nick DelGuidice took a walk to force in the go-ahead run before the Royals left 'em loaded. Jerrell Allen tripled and scored on a passed ball in the 8th with Nick Cuckovich also singling in a run to make it 7-4 Royals. Brian Gaylord finished it with a 2-run homer in the 9th for his 3rd career longball. The Royals are 12-18.

Royals on the Farm 7/27 -- Salvador, Absolute Zero move up

2011-07-27T20:01:00.003-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 6, Albuquerque 4

CF Cain 2-3, BB, HR (12), RBI (55), 2 RS -- .323, hitting out of 3 slot
1B Robinson 1-3, BB, 2B (24), 2 RBI (67), RS -- .312
2B Giavotella 1-4, 3B (2), RBI (66), RS -- .338
DH Ka'aihue 0-2, BB, SF, RBI (47), K -- .279
LF Lough 1-4, RS -- .316
C S. Perez 1-4, 2B, picked off runner -- .250, already showing defensive stuff in AAA debut

Suppan 6 IP, 4 ER, 8 H, 3 BB, 2 K, 2 HRA -- 4.66 ERA
Sisk 2 IP, H, 2 BB, 5 K -- W, 3-1, 1.65 ERA
Chavez IP, H, BB, 3 K -- SV, 12, 3.40 ERA

* Omaha came up with some 8th inning magic to even the series with the Isotopes. Lorenzo Cain got it started with a 2-out solo homer in the 1st for his 12th of the season. Unfortunately it was a short-lived lead as Jeff Suppan gave up a 3-run blast in the 2nd. Suppan then gave up another solo homer in the 5th to make it 4-1. Johnny Giavotella came through with an RBI triple in the 5th and scored on a wild pitch by P John Ely to cut the lead to 4-3. Roy Corcoran took on that lead in the 8th but Clint Robinson stung him with a 2-run double and Kila Ka'aihue added a sac fly to give the Chasers a 6-4 lead. Jesse Chavez stranded 2 in the 9th for his 12th save. Omaha is 56-48. Game 3 is Thursday. Luis Mendoza will start. C Manny Pina and P Mario Santiago have been sent down to AA as C Salvador Perez (as shown) and P Kelvin "Absolute Zero" Herrera have taken their roster slots.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 6, Tulsa 3

CF Robinson 2-3, 2 BB, 2 RBI (17), RS, 2 SB (40) -- .279
SS Colon 2-5, RBI (53) -- .254
LF Orlando 2-4, RBI (5), RS, SB -- .343
3B Lisson 1-3, BB, 2 RBI (36), K, 2 RS, SB (9) -- .256
DH Myers 0-4, K -- .251
RF Jeff Francis had an assist at third.

Odorizzi 6 IP, 3 ER, 7 H, 6 K, 2 HRA -- W, 3-0, 4.71 ERA
M. Santiago 2 IP, 2 H, BB, 3 K -- 1.35 ERA
Chapman IP, 3 K -- SV, 3, 3.42, dominant save

* The Naturals slapped together a 5-run rally and Jake Odorizzi earned his 3rd AA win. The big rally came in the 2nd as Paulo Orlando hit an RBI single, Mario Lisson hit a 2-run single, and Derrick Robinson and Christian Colon hit RBI singles to pile up a 5-0 lead. Tulsa hit 2 homers off Odorizzi in the 4th and added another run in the 5th but Odorizzi held them to that. Robinson singled in another run in the 6th and Mario Santiago, fresh back in a Nats uniform, and Kevin Chapman brought it home from there. NWA is 18-14 and 3 games up on first. They go for a key sweep Thursday. Edgar Garcia is set to start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Potomac 5, Blue Rocks 1

DH Testa 2-4 -- .265
SS Hall 1-3, 2B (3), RBI (6) -- .236
CF Merrifield 1-3, BB, 2 K, CS (11) -- .263

Sample 5 IP, 5 R (3 ER), 8 H, 2 BB, 3 K, HRA, E (5) -- L, 6-8, 5.42 ERA
E. Pimentel 2 IP, H, BB, K -- 3.59 ERA
Rivers 2 IP, K -- 0.00 ERA, Rocks debut

* The Rocks were stymied by Sammy Solis and the Nationals. Tyler Sample stumbled through a 2-run 1st and the Rocks got 2 runners on in each of the first 3 innings but made nothing of it. Sample gave up a solo homer in the 4th then the P-Nats got 2 off Sample and Elisaul Pimentel in the 6th. Solis retired 13 in a row from the 3rd thru the 7th. Gerard Hall chased him with an RBI double in the 8th but RP Marcos Frias quickly stomped out any embers and the Rocks didn't rally in the 9th. Wilmington is 11-21. The Rocks will try to avert a sweep on Thursday with Justin Marks pitching. P Allen Caldwell has been called up after pitching well in Kane County.

A - Kane County: Cedar Rapids 6, Cougars 3

LF Fletcher 2-3, HBP, 3B (3), RBI (38), K -- .340
2B Franco 2-5, 2 K -- .238
3B Cuthbert 1-4, RBI (36), K -- .328
CF Eibner 1-3, 2 BB, K, RS -- .189

Ventura 3 1/3 IP, ER, 3 H, 2 K -- 5.03 ERA
A. Cruz 2 2/3 IP, 2 H, BB, 4 K, WP -- 2.91 ERA
Hodge 2/3 IP, 4 ER, H, 3 BB, WP -- L, 2-1, 6.56 ERA
C. White 1 1/3 IP, ER, 4 H, 2 K -- 8.44 ERA
Byrne IP, K -- 3.40 ERA

* A 4-run 7th fueled a Kernels win. Yordano Ventura allowed a run in the 1st but the Cougars matched it on a Cheslor Cuthbert RBI single in the bottom of the inning. KC left 2 in scoring position in the 3rd, then left the bases full of Cougars in the 5th. Mitch Hodge came in long enough to combine with new addition RP Cole White to allow 4 runs in the 7th to blow the game open. A run-scoring error and Brian Fletcher RBI triple cut it to 5-3 in the bottom of the inning but the Kernels got a run back in the 8th and KC didn't threaten again. The Cougars are 18-13. Jason Adam pitches game 2 Thursday.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Missoula 4, Chukars 3 (Tue.)

CF Davis 1-3, HR (4), 3 RBI (19), K, RS -- .337
C Escobar 1-4, 2B (9), RS, PB (7) -- .344

B. Martin 7 IP, 6 H, 4 K, pickoff -- 3.86 ERA, robbed of a well-deserved W
Middendorf IP, ER, H, K -- 6.75 ERA
Fassold 1/3 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 4 H -- BS, 2, L, 1-1, 4.91 ERA

* A disastrous bottom of the 9th cost Brennon Martin and the Chukars the win. Mike Liberto hit a 1-out triple in the 3rd but got thrown out in an odd double play on a ball hit by Tyler Chism. Runey Davis provided the entirety of the IF scoring offense with a 3-run homer in the 5th for his 4th career blast to make it 3-0 Chukars in support of Martin. David Middendorf lost the shutout as a triple led to a run in the 8th but he handed a 3-1 lead to Cody Fassold to start the 9th. A Liberto error cost the Chukars a possible out and a groundout plated a run and put runners at first and second. From there it was RBI single, RBI single, walkoff single by C Roidany Aguila to end it. Idaho Falls is 15-20. The series ends tonight.

Rookie - Burlington: Bluefield 3, B-Royals 0

C Shin 2-3, 2B (7), PB (4) -- .241
SS Antonio 2-4 -- .281
DH Swab 1-3, K -- .216
RF Derek Hamblen had an assist at the plate.

Murray 5 IP, UER, 2 H, BB, 6 K, 2 E (3) -- L, 1-2, 3.82 ERA
Graham 3 IP, ER, H, 3 BB, 3 K, WP -- 3.24 ERA
Ferguson IP, ER, 2 H, 2 K -- 4.00 ERA

* The Royals generated only 5 hits on offense as Bluefield came away with the series opener. The Royals ran into a rally-killing double play in the 1st and Bluefield struck for the first run in the 2nd. Jays pitchers retired 15 in a row at one point and Bluefield added runs in the 8th and 9th to put it on ice. Burlington is 14-22. Game 2 is Thursday. As seen above, P Alex Rivers has been moved up to Wilmington.

Rookie - AZL: off day

Royals on the Farm 7/26 -- Dwyer, Arguelles shine

2011-07-26T20:40:00.005-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Albuquerque 6, Storm Chasers 4

RF Dyson 3-4, 2 RBI (12), RS, SB (27) -- .287
LF Lough 3-5, 3B (9), RBI (47), RS -- .317
CF Cain 1-4, RBI (54), K -- .320
2B Giavotella 0-5 -- .339
1B Robinson 0-4 -- .312

Montgomery 4 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, 4 BB, 3 K, WP -- 5.47 ERA
Miner 4 IP, H, BB, 2 K, WP -- 3.18 ERA
Teaford IP, 2 ER, H, BB, 2 K, HRA -- L, 3-2, 3.44 ERA

* One pitch won it for Albuquerque on Tuesday. The Isotopes loaded the bases to start the game off Mike Montgomery and got 2 runs in the 1st. David Lough hit an RBI single in the 3rd but Albuquerque answered with 2 in the 4th off Montgomery. Jarrod Dyson hit a 2-run single in the 4th to cut it to 4-3 and Lorenzo Cain singled in the tying run in the 5th. The tie was handed to Everett Teaford in the 9th and a 1-out, 2-run homer by 3B Russ Mitchell made it 6-4 Isotopes. Omaha stranded 1 in the 9th. Omaha is 55-48. Game 2 is Wednesday. Jeff Suppan will start.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 10, Tulsa 1

SS Bianchi 3-4, 2B (21), 2 RS, E (11) -- .280
1B Seratelli 2-4, 2 RBI (48), 2 K, RS -- .292
C S. Perez 1-4, GS (9), 4 RBI (43), RS -- .283, um, that's two grand slams in a week
RF Francis 1-3, BB, 2B (7), 2 RBI (19), 2 RS -- .273
2B Navarro 1-4, HR, RBI (10), RS -- .289
CF Robinson 0-3, SF, RBI (15) -- .275
LF Myers 0-1, 3 BB, K, 2 RS -- .255

Dwyer 8 IP, ER, 3 H, BB, 9 K -- W, 4-9, 6.34 ERA
Herrera IP, H -- 1.75 ERA

* A 7-run rally punctuated by a big blast from Salvador Perez helped Chris Dwyer in one of his best starts of the season. Nick Francis hit a 2-run double in the 1st and Anthony Seratelli hit an RBI single to make it 3-0 NWA after 1. Seratelli singled in a run with the bases loaded in the 3rd and Perez followed with his 9th homer for his 2nd grand slam in recent days. Rey Navarro made it back-to-back with his 1st AA homer and Derrick Robinson added a sac fly to give Dwyer a relatively pressure-free 10-0 lead. Dwyer allowed a run in the 4th but recovered to retire 10 straight and Kelvin Herrera finished it in the 9th. NWA is 17-14. Game 2 is Wednesday as Jake Odorizzi makes the start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Potomac 4, Blue Rocks 3 (comp. of Mon. game)

CF Prades 4-5, 3B (3), RBI (11), 2 RS -- .285
LF Testa 2-5, 2B (22), RBI (26), K, SB (11) -- .262
DH Ferguson 2-4, K -- .218
RF Van Stratten 0-2, 2 BB, SF, RBI (13) -- .313
The Rocks stranded 10.

Mariot 4 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 5 K -- L, 6-3, 3.22 ERA
Odenbach 2 1/3 IP, ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 2 K -- 3.21 ERA
Keck 2 IP, H, 2 K -- 7.36 ERA

* It took 1 hit for Potomac to grab control of the game as it resumed in the 5th Monday and the Nationals made the lead stand. Yem Prades led off the Rocks 1st with a triple and scored on a Nick Van Stratten sac fly to spot Mike Mariot a lead early. The Rocks left the bases loaded in the 3rd and Potomac tied it in the 4th off Mariot. The Rocks stranded the bases full again in the 4th and the game was suspended by rain with 2 on and 2 out in the 5th. Dusty Odenbach took over when play resumed Tuesday and a 2-run single made it 3-1 Potomac. The Nationals added a run in the 7th and Prades singled home a run with Carlo Testa doubling him home in the 9th, but the Rocks would strand 2 more in a game of wasted chances.

Blue Rocks 4, Potomac 3 (8/reg. Tue. game)

RF Prades 3-4, RS, CS (3) -- .295
C Jul. Rodriguez 2-3, 2B (2) -- .400
1B Lewis 2-3, RBI (15), K -- .214
DH Van Stratten 1-3, S, RBI (14) -- .314
2B Mertins 1-4, RBI (7), K, RS -- .256
LF Ferguson 1-4, GW RBI (30), K -- .219

Arguelles 7 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, BB, 3 K, pickoff -- 2.89 ERA
Dennick IP, ER, 2 H, K -- W, 2-4, 3.96 ERA

* The Rocks had to go to "extras" in the regular game but got the win. Nick Van Stratten singled in a run in the 1st and the narrow lead and a no-hitter was held by Noel Arguelles into the 7th and would-be final inning. However, the Nationals got an RBI triple and RBI single to grab the lead. Joey Lewis hit a clutch RBI single in their half to stay alive, but Potomac got a run in the 8th off Ryan Dennick to regain the lead. Kurt Mertins hit a 2-out RBI single and advanced to third on an error on the play, and Tim Ferguson ended it with a walkoff single. Wilmington is 11-20. Game 3 is Wednesday as Tyler Sample starts.

A - Kane County: off day

* The Cedar Rapids series starts Wednesday, not today. Oops.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Missoula 4, Chukars 1 (Mon.)

LF Chism 1-4, K -- .276
RF Elder 1-4, 3B (2), 2 K -- .360
CF Sandford 1-3, K, RS, SB (14) -- .270

Peacock 6 IP, 4 H, BB, 7 K -- 3.72 ERA, good start for naught
Penny 1/3 IP, 4 R (3 ER), 2 H, 3 BB, HRA -- BS, 1, L, 1-4, 11.08 ERA
Carl 1 2/3 IP, H, 3 K -- 0.61 ERA

* A good Brian Peacock start went fruitless as the offense couldn't do enough to get him the win. Darian Sandford singled and scored on a wild pitch in the 3rd, and the Chukars squandered a triple in the 6th. Robert Penny allowed 4 runs in the 7th and like that, poof, it was gone. IF is 15-19. Game 2 is tonight.

Rookie - Burlington: Elizabethton 6, B-Royals 4

2B J. Rodriguez 2-5, RBI (10), K, SB (9) -- .273
DH Dyer 2-3, BB -- .326
SS Antonio 1-5, RBI (16), K, E (14) -- .273
1B Watts 1-4, BB, HR (12), RBI (32), 2 RS -- .289
C Shin 1-4, 2B (6), RBI (5), E (3) -- .226, good to see him back in action

Graffeo 3 2/3 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, 6 K -- 0.95 ERA
Cantrell 2 2/3 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 2 H, BB, 2 K, WP, balk -- L, 0-4, 6.46 ERA
A. Gonzalez 2 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 5 H, 2 K -- 10.80 ERA

* Elizabethton took control late to defeat the Royals. Nick Graffeo allowed a run in the 1st but the Royals tied it in the 4th on Murray Watts' 12th homer of the season. The score stayed 1-1 into the 7th but the Twins scored 2 that inning off Eric Cantrell. Jose Rodriguez hit an RBI groundout in the 7th but the Twins scored 3 in the 8th off Abel Gonzalez to make it 6-2. Jin-Ho Shin doubled in a run in the 8th and Mike Antonio hit an RBI groundout in the 9th but the Royals would get no closer. The B-Royals are 14-21. A 3-game home set with the Bluefield Blue Jays (19-16) starts Wednesday.

Rookie - AZL: Royals 8, Indians 7 (Mon.)

LF Gore 3-3, SF, 2B (2), 3 RBI (7), 2 RS, SB (7) -- .321
2B Garcia 2-4, S, 3B (5), 2 RBI (14), K, SB (6), 2 E (11) -- .272
DH Bello 2-4, RBI (7), K -- .295, needs to move up to Kane Cty so we can have Billo-Bello battery
SS Arteaga 1-3, 2 S, RBI (12) -- .237
CF J. Allen 0-2, 2 BB, RBI (5), K, 2 RS -- .176

E. Diaz 3 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, 2 BB, 4 K, WP, E (3) -- 6.68 ERA
Runion 2 IP, 2 K -- W, 1-1, 1.59 ERA
Stueve 3 2/3 IP, 4 UER, 4 H, BB, 2 K, WP -- 0.66 ERA
Witt 1/3 IP, nothing -- SV, 1, 9.39 ERA

* The Royals barely held on to win on Monday. The Indians got a run off Eric Diaz in the 2nd but the Royals answered with 3 runs on a Terrance Gore RBI single and 2-run Carlos Garcia triple. They piled on 3 more runs in the 3rd on a Rainier Bello RBI single, Jerrell Allen run-scoring walk and Gore sac fly. The Indians scored 2 in the 4th but Humberto Arteaga squeezed home a run in the 6th and Gore tacked on an RBI double in the 8th. The Royals took a seemingly comfortable 8-3 lead into the 9th but Andrew Stueve suffered from two 2-out errors behind him, then gave up a 2-run single to cut the lead to 8-7. Christian Witt came in to get the final out for his 1st pro save.

Giants 12, Royals 5

LF Gore 3-4, 3B, 3 RBI (10), K -- .375
1B Gaylord 2-5, 2 K, RS -- .217
3B Morales 2-4, BB, E (4) -- .300
2B Garcia 0-5, RBI (15) -- .256
SS DelGuidice 1-3, BB, RS, 2 E (6) -- .415
The Royals stranded 10.

S. Rosario 4 IP, 4 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 2 K, 2 E -- L, 0-1, 12.86 ERA
A. Williams 3 IP, 7 R (2 ER), 6 H, 2 BB, 3 K -- 5.00 ERA
Bangs IP, ER, 2 H, K, HRA -- 6.30 ERA

* As the schedule shifted to mornings in the AZL for the Royals, the Giants ruined the Royals' morning. The Giants scored a run in the 1st but the Royals scored 3 in the 2nd on a 3-run Terrance Gore triple. The Giants responded with a 3-run rally in the 2nd off Sergio Rosario to take a 4-3 lead. The Giants added 3 in the 5th off Ali Williams and, after the Royals scored on a wild pitch in the 7th, the Giants scored 4 that inning. Carlos Garcia knocked in a run in the 8th but by then it was 11-5. The Giants polished it off with a solo homer off Parker Bangs in the 8th. The Royals are 11-18 and have Wednesday off.

Royals on the Farm 7/25

2011-07-25T20:29:00.002-05:00

long day....short report tonight

AAA - Omaha: Round Rock 9, Storm Chasers 2

1B Ka'aihue 2-4, BB, 2 2B (15), K, E (2) -- .282
CF Cain 2-4, HBP, RBI (53), RS -- .321
2B Giavotella 2-4, BB, 2 K -- .343
RF Falu 1-3, 2 BB, RBI (27), CS (6) -- .294
Omaha stranded 13.

Mazzaro 5 IP, 5 R (3 ER), 11 H, BB, 3 K -- L, 5-1, 4.74 ERA
Tejeda 3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 2 HRA -- 3.64 ERA
M. Santiago IP, 2 ER, 2 H, BB, K -- 5.70 ERA

* The Express chugged over the Chasers on Monday. It was 5-0 Round Rock before Omaha got on the board on a Lorenzo Cain RBI single and Irving Falu took a bases-loaded walk in the 7th. Other than that it was a lot of offensive frustration for Omaha. Omaha is 55-47. A 4-game home set with the Albuquerque Isotopes (54-49, AAA Dodgers) starts Tuesday. Mike Montgomery is set to start game 1.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 5, Springfield 4

C S. Perez 4-4, 2 RBI (39), RS -- .284
DH Romak 2-4, K, RS -- .267
LF Robinson 2-4, BB, K, RS, SB (38) -- .278
CF Myers 1-5, 3B, 2 RBI (26), 2 K -- .256
2B Colon 0-4, S, K -- .252
SS Bianchi 1-2, BB, K, RS, SB (14), E (10) -- .274
NWA stranded 10.

Jeffress 3 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 4 H, 2 BB, 2 K, 2 WP, E -- 3.86 ERA
Lebron 3 IP, 3 H, BB, 2 K -- W, 3-1, 3.65 ERA
Hardy 3 IP, ER, H, 2 K, HRA -- SV, 2, 1.72 ERA

* The Naturals took down Cards top prospect starter Shelby Miller to deal him only his 2nd loss of the season. Jeremy Jeffress had the Nats down, 3-0, in the 2nd but Salvador Perez hit an RBI single in the 2nd and Wil Myers hit a 2-run triple in the 3rd to tie the game. An error scored the go-ahead run for NWA in the 6th and Perez singled in a run in the 7th to make it 5-3 Nats. Blaine Hardy gave up a solo homer in the 8th but got the next 4 outs to end it. NWA is 16-14 and a game up on first. A 3-game home set with the Tulsa Drillers (15-15, AA Rockies) starts Tuesday. No announced starter on the team site.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: suspended in 5th tied at 1

* The game will be finished Tuesday and the regular Tuesday game will be shortened to 7 innings. Noel Arguelles will start the regular game.

A - Kane County: Cougars 4, South Bend 2

2B Franco 2-4, RS -- .234
DH Beltre 1-4, HR (3), 2 RBI (27), 2 K, RS -- .245
CF Eibner 1-4, 2B (5), RBI (19), K -- .186
3B Cuthbert 1-4, RBI (35) -- .330
LF Fletcher 1-4, 2B (20), 3 K, RS -- .335

Billo 7 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 5 K, HRA -- W, 8-2, 1.48 ERA
Caldwell 1 1/3 IP, 2 H, 3 K, WP -- SV, 1, 2.39 ERA

* Greg Billo had another good start to pick up his 8th win. Cheslor Cuthbert hit an RBI single in the 2nd, a run-scoring error in the 3rd made it 2-0, and Geulin Beltre hit a 2-run homer for his 3rd of the season in the 5th to make it 4-0 Cougars. Billo was perfect through 5. A homer and RBI double in the 8th spoiled his shutout. KC is 18-12. A 3-game home set with the Cedar Rapids Kernels (13-17, A Angels) starts Tuesday with Yordano Ventura starting.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: report tomorrow on tonight's game with Missoula

Rookie - Burlington: B-Royals 6, Elizabethton 5

C Swab 3-5, 2B (2), 2 RBI (4), RS -- .208
2B Trapp 2-4, BB, RBI (27), K, RS, SB (14) -- .297
DH Dyer 2-5, 2 RBI (8, including game-winner), 2 K -- .300
1B Watts 1-2, BB, RBI (31), RS -- .290
SS Antonio 1-5, K, RS, SB (8) -- .276
Burlington stranded 12.

A. Baez 4 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, 2 BB, 5 K, HRA -- 8.14 ERA
R. Brown 2 IP, ER, 5 H, BB, K -- 2.41 ERA
C. Hall 3 IP, H, BB -- W, 2-0, 10.93 ERA

* The Royals took an early 5-1 lead but had to get a walkoff hit to end it. Angel Baez allowed a solo homer in the 1st but the Royals got 4 runs in their half on a Murray Watts RBI single, a 2-run Kenny Swab double and Jared Dyer RBI single. Justin Trapp hit an RBI single in the 2nd to make it 5-1. Elizabethton tied it by the end of the 5th and it stayed tied at 5 until the 9th. The Royals loaded the bases with singles with 1 out in the 9th and Dyer came through with a walkoff hit to end it. Burlington is 14-20. The series ends Tuesday.

Rookie - AZL: Padres 12, Royals 2 (8/Sun.)

3B Morales 1-2, 2 BB, RBI (5), RS, 3 E -- .304
RF Blanco 1-3, 2B (4), RBI (17), K -- .282
2B DelGuidice 1-3, 2B (12) -- .418

Ogando 2/3 IP, 4 R (3 ER), 4 H, BB, 2 HRA -- L, 0-3, 15.63 ERA, that's his last 3 starts that he hasn't gone more than an IP
J. Soto 2 IP, 6 R (2 ER), 3 H, 2 BB, K, WP -- 9.53 ERA
Edelen 3 1/3 IP, ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 4 K, HRA -- 8.39 ERA
F. Cruz IP, ER, H, 2 K, HRA -- 16.20 ERA

* The Padres were all over Cesar Ogando and Jorge Soto and routed the Royals Sunday. Adrian Morales hit an RBI single in the 1st but Ogando gave up 4 runs, and Soto and Brian Edelen gave up the next 6 in the 2nd and 3rd. Jerico Blanco hit an RBI double in the 5th and that was it for the Royals. They are 10-17 and play the Indians tonight.

Royals on the Farm 7/24

2011-07-24T18:11:00.003-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Round Rock 3, Storm Chasers 1

2B Giavotella 2-4, 2B (30) -- .342
1B Robinson 2-4, 2B (23), RS -- .316
SS Zawadzki 1-3, RBI (35), K -- .247
LF Lough 1-4, CS (5) -- .317
RF-CF Cain 0-3, BB -- .318
DH Ka'aihue 0-4, 2 K -- .278

O'Sullivan 6 IP, 2 ER, 7 H, BB, 5 K -- L, 2-2, 4.31 ERA
Pucetas 2 IP, ER, 3 H, BB -- 5.67 ERA
Chavez IP, K -- 3.48 ERA

* Sean O'Sullivan's solid start went for naught as the offense needed him to shut down the Express and he couldn't get it done. Neither team did much until the 5th, when Round Rock stranded 2 and Omaha got a 2-out RBI single from Lance Zawadzki. O'Sullivan finally allowed 2 runs in the 6th and Omaha stranded 2 that inning. Kevin Pucetas allowed an insurance run and the Chasers didn't have any answers. Omaha is 55-46. The series ends Monday with Vin Mazzaro starting.

AA - NW Arkansas: Naturals 11, Springfield 7

C S. Perez 2-4, BB, GS (8), 4 RBI (37), RS -- .273
DH Bianchi 2-5, 2 RBI (40), K, SB (13) -- .273
3B Navarro 2-5, RBI (9), K, RS -- .293
SS Colon 2-5, HR (7), RBI (52), 2 RS -- .255
CF Robinson 2-4, SF, 2B (6), RBI (14), CS (10) -- .274
LF Orlando 2-4, BB, 3B, 2 K, 2 RS -- .321
1B Romak 2-5, 2 K, RS -- .264
2B Seratelli 1-1, 4 BB, 3 RS, SB (27) -- .293
The Nats stranded 10.

W. Smith 7 1/3 IP, 4 ER, 8 H, 2 BB, 4 K -- W, 9-7, 3.99 ERA
Keating 1 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 2 H, BB, 3 K, HRA -- 6.16 ERA

* The Naturals made a run at blowing a 10-1 lead but held on for the win Sunday. Christian Colon got it started with a solo homer in the 1st for his 7th of the season and the Nats heaped on 4 more runs in the 2nd on a Derrick Robinson sac fly, a run-scoring error, and 2-run Jeff Bianchi single to make it 5-0. Springfield scored a run in the 4th but Paulo Orlando tripled and scored on an error in the 6th to make it 6-1. Salvador Perez seemingly put the big nail in the coffin with a grand slam in the 7th for his 8th of the season. Will Smith allowed 3 runs in the 8th before getting pulled. Rey Navarro added an insurance run with an RBI single in the 8th and Patrick Keating served up a 3-run homer in the 9th before finally finishing it. NW Arkansas is 15-14. The series finale is Monday with Jeremy Jeffress starting.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Kinston 7, Blue Rocks 5

3B Whittleman 3-5, HR (16), RBI (50), K, RS, SB (2) -- .240
DH Testa 2-4, 2 2B (21), K, RS -- .259
C T. Jones 2-3, 2B, RS -- .333
2B Batista 0-2, BB, SF, RBI (20), 2 K -- .207
LF Merrifield 1-4, BB, 2B (23), picked off, E (4) -- .262
CF Prades 1-4, BB, 2 RS, SB (7) -- .271
The Rocks stranded 11.

Melville 3 1/3 IP, 4 ER, 5 H, 4 BB, 4 K, WP -- 4.18 ERA, also hit 3 batters
E. Pimentel 1 2/3 IP, BB, 3 K -- 3.67 ERA, don't really get giving him a turn in the pen, hasn't been lockdown but has been passable in 8 of last 10 starts
Dennick 2 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 3 K -- BS, 2, L, 1-4, 3.82 ERA
Odenbach IP, ER, K -- 3.16 ERA

* A tenuous 5-4 lead fell apart late as Kinston swept the Rocks. Carlo Testa doubled and scored on an error in the 1st and a Deivy Batista sac fly in the 2nd made it 2-0. Tim Melville allowed an RBI triple that scored the hitter as well as a Whit Merrifield error on the play tied the game. John Whittleman smacked his 16th homer in the 3rd and a run-scoring error and run-scoring wild pitch in the 4th made it 5-2 Rocks. Melville allowed a run, then walked in another run before getting pulled in the 4th and Elisaul Pimentel stranded the bases full. The Rocks stranded 2 in the 7th and Ryan Dennick allowed 2 RBI doubles in the 7th to turn the lead around. The Rocks stranded the bases full in the 8th after a 42-minute mid-rally rain delay, and Dusty Odenbach allowed an insurance run in the 8th. The Rocks stranded 1 more in the 9th. Wilmington is 10-19. A 4-game home set with the Potomac Nationals (16-12) starts Monday. Mike Mariot will start the opener.

A - Kane County: Cougars 7, South Bend 5

3B Cuthbert 2-4, BB, 2B (9), 4 RBI (34), K -- .332
CF Eibner 2-5, 2B (4), HR (8), 2 RBI (18), 2 K, 2 RS -- .184
RF Beltre 3-5, RBI (25), 2 K, 2 RS -- .245
LF Pickett 1-3, BB, 3B, RS -- .357

J. Mitchell 5 IP, 4 R (2 ER), 7 H, 3 K -- W, 1-0, 3.60 ERA
Rogers 2 IP, ER, H, K, HRA -- 1.69 ERA
Boruff 2 IP, H, 5 K, balk -- SV, 3, 2.08 ERA

* The Cougars made a 6-0 early lead stick to help Jason Mitchell to a win in his Kane County debut. Cheslor Cuthbert started it with a 2-run double in the 1st, and the Cougs poured on 4 runs in the 2nd on a Geulin Beltre RBI single, Brett Eibner RBI double and 2-run Cuthbert single, putting him on pace for 18 RBI for the game. Of course....it didn't last, but I'm sure he'll take a 4 RBI game. Mitchell allowed 2 runs in the 3rd but Eibner slammed his 8th homer of the season in the 4th to make it 7-2. Mitchell allowed 2 more runs in the 5th and Nick Rogers served up a solo homer in the 6th but the Cougars put the brakes on the South Bend offense from there. Rogers and Chase Boruff retired 9 straight and Boruff struck out the last 2 with a runner at second to pick up his 3rd save. KC is 17-12. The rubber match of the set is Monday as Greg Billo will start.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Chukars 6, Helena 5 (Sat.)

DH Espy 3-4, SF, 2B (11), 2 RBI (20), K, RS, SB (2) -- .327
2B Mateo 1-3, SF, 2B (4), 2 RBI (16), K -- .347
1B Moreno 2-4, K, RS, E (9) -- .252
3B Threlkeld 1-4, 2B (7), RBI (11), K -- .255
C T. Smith 1-3, RBI (2), RS -- .087

Dooley 6 IP, ER, 4 H, BB, 4 K -- W, 1-3, 8.47 ERA, put together good start for 1st 2011 win
Patton 2 IP, H, BB, K -- 4.57 ERA
Fassold IP, 4 ER, 5 H, K, HRA, E -- 3.38 ERA

* Idaho Falls held off a furious Brewer rally in the 9th to come away with the victory. Richard Espy hit a sac fly in the 1st, Tyler Smith singled in a run in the 2nd, and Mark Threlkeld doubled in a run in the 3rd to piece together a 3-0 Chukars lead. Daniel Mateo added a sac fly in the 5th, and Jonathan Dooley had retired 11 straight entering the 5th when 3 Helena hits scored a run. Espy singled in a run and Mateo hit an RBI double to make it 7-1 IF in the 7th. Cody Fassold gave up an RBI single and 3-run homer in the 9th but he got it finished.

Chukars 9, Helena 1

C Escobar 2-4, 2 HR (3), 4 RBI (9), 2 RS -- .349
3B Threlkeld 2-5, 2 2B (9), 2 RBI (13), K, RS -- .262
2B Mateo 1-5, 2B (5), 2 RBI (18), 2 K -- .340
CF Chism 1-2, 3 BB, HR (5), RBI (18), 2 RS, 2 SB (5) -- .277

Brooks 6 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, 7 K -- W, 2-1, 4.09 ERA
Cuevas 2 IP, BB, 2 K, 2 WP -- 3.00 ERA
Jo. Sanchez IP, H, K -- 6.48 ERA

* Aaron Brooks pitched well and the Chukars used an early barrage to defeat the Brewers yet again. The first 2 Chukars reached in the 2nd, and Edul Escobar went deep for a 3-run shot for his 2nd of the season to make it 3-0 IF. Tyler Chism followed with a 2-out solo homer (his 5th) and Daniel Mateo hit a 2-run double to make it 6-0 before the inning was done. Escobar went deep again in the 3rd for his 3rd homer and second of the game to make it 7-0. Brooks' only damage came on a 3rd inning 1-run rally. Mark Threlkeld hit a 2-out, 2-run double in the 4th and it was up to the pitching staff from there. Brooks, Gary Cuevas and Jose Sanchez finished it without incident to finish the win. IF is 15-18. A 3-game set at the Missoula Osprey (20-12, Rookie D-Backs) starts Monday. Brian Peacock is set to start.

Rookie - Burlington: B-Royals 4, Elizabethton 3

RF Bonifacio 2-3, HBP, 2B (10), SB (2) -- .328
3B Hamblen 1-3, BB, RBI, RS, 2 CS (3) -- .038
C Swab 0-3, BB, RBI (2), E (3) -- .163
2B Trapp 1-5, GW RBI (26), 2 K -- .290
SS Antonio 1-4, RS -- .280

Ridings 5 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, BB, 7 K -- 3.38 ERA
Culver 1 2/3 IP, ER, 2 H, BB, HRA -- 7.11 ERA
Rivers 1 2/3 IP, H, 4 K -- W, 1-1, 1.02 ERA

* Burlington launched a small comeback in the 6th then got a walkoff single in the 9th on Sunday. Lane Adams tripled and scored on a wild pitch in the 1st and the score stayed 1-0 until the 6th, when Matt Ridings gave up 2 runs and Malcom Culver served up a solo homer to make it 3-1 Twins. Kenny Swab took a bases-loaded walk in the bottom of the inning and Derek Hamblen hit an RBI forceout to tie the game. The Royals stranded 2 in the 8th but put 2 in scoring position with 1 out in the 9th, and Justin Trapp came up with a walkoff single to end it. Burlington is 13-20. Game 2 is Monday.

Rookie - AZL: Royals 7, D-Backs 6 (Sat.)

C Jenkins 3-3, 2B, 3 RBI, RS, E -- 1.000
SS Arteaga 2-5, RBI (11), 2 RS -- .234
3B Morales 1-2, 3 BB, 2B (2), RBI (4), RS -- .286
1B Gaylord 1-3, BB, RBI (12) -- .216
RF J. Blanco 0-3, SF, RBI (16), K -- .280
LF D'Andre Toney had an assist at third.

Lumpkins 4 2/3 IP, 2 R (1 ER), 5 H, 4 BB, 3 K, WP -- 6.86 ERA
J. Morales 2 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 3 BB, 3 K -- 5.00 ERA
Witt 2 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, K, HRA -- W, 1-2, 9.60 ERA

* Two Royals relievers were able to stave off the Diamondbacks Saturday as Christian Witt picked up his 1st pro win. The Royals got a runner at the plate to end the D-Backs 1st and answered with 4 runs in the bottom of the inning on RBI doubles by Adrian Morales and Ryan Jenkins, a Brian Gaylord RBI single and Jerico Blanco sac fly. The D-Backs got 2 runs in the 2nd off Stephen Lumpkins. The Royals added 3 in the 4th on a Humberto Arteaga RBI single and 2-run Jenkins single that made it 7-2. The D-Backs got a 2-run triple off Max Morales in the 6th. Witt served up a 2-out, 2-run homer in the 9th but got the last out to pick up the win. The Royals are 10-16. They play the Padres tonight.

Royals on the Farm 7/23

2011-07-23T20:16:00.002-05:00

AAA - Omaha: Storm Chasers 6, Round Rock 5 (11)

RF Cain 3-5, HBP, GW RBI (52), RS, OF assist at third -- .321
2B Giavotella 2-6, 2B (29) -- .340
LF Lough 2-4, BB, S, K, RS -- .318
1B Ka'aihue 1-4, BB, 2 RBI (46), K, E -- .283
CF Dyson 1-3, BB, S, 2 RBI (10), RS, E (5), OF assist at third -- .280
DH Robinson 0-3, 2 BB, RBI (65) -- .314
Omaha stranded 12.

Mendoza 6 IP, 4 ER, 9 H, 2 BB, 4 K, WP -- 2.51 ERA
Teaford 2 IP, ER, 3 H, BB, 3 K, HRA -- 3.00 ERA
Sisk 2 IP, 2 H, K -- 1.88 ERA
Santiago IP, BB -- W, 3-3, 5.44 ERA

* Jarrod Dyson had the big hit in the 8th and Lorenzo Cain gave 'em a dose in the 11th to win it for Omaha. Round Rock struck first in the 3rd but Omaha got a bases-loaded walk from Clint Robinson and a 2-run Kila Ka'aihue single in the bottom of the inning to stake a 3-1 lead. The Express tied it off Luis Mendoza in the 5th and took the lead with runs in the 6th and 7th. With 2 out and 2 in scoring position in the 8th, Dyson stepped up with a 2-run single to tie the game. Dyson led off the 11th with a walk and Johnny Giavotella doubled, and after David Lough was walked, Cain hit a walkoff single to end it. Omaha is 55-45. Game 3 is Sunday as Sean O'Sullivan starts.

AA - NW Arkansas: Springfield 8, Naturals 5

C Eigsti 2-4, 2 2B (3), RBI (2), 2 K -- .500
CF Orlando 2-5, K, RS -- .292
SS Colon 1-5, HR (6), 2 RBI (51), RS -- .253
LF Francis 0-3, SF, RBI (17), K -- .274
3B Navarro 0-3, BB, RBI (8) -- .286
RF Myers 0-4, BB, E (5) -- .258
2B Bianchi 1-3, BB, RS, SB (12), E (9) -- .271

E. Garcia 4 IP, 3 R (1 ER), 5 H, BB, 4 K, balk -- 1.29 ERA
Dobies 3 IP, 5 ER, 7 H, HRA -- L, 0-1, 15.00 ERA, what an organizational debut
Herrera 2 IP, H, 3 BB, K -- 1.80 ERA

* The teams traded the lead twice but it was the Cards ending up on top. Springfield took the lead in the 1st then scored 2 in the 3rd off Edgar Garcia to make it 3-0. NWA got on the board with 2 in the 3rd on a Christian Colon 2-run shot for his 6th of the season. Nick Francis hit a sac fly, Rey Navarro hit an RBI groundout and Ryan Eigsti hit an RBI double to make it 5-3 Naturals. Five singles off Andrew Dobies made it 6-5 Cards in the 5th and Dobies gave up a 2-run homer in the 6th to make it 8-5. The Nats stranded 2 in the 9th. NWA is 14-14. Game 3 is Sunday. Will Smith will start.

A-Adv. - Wilmington: Kinston 11, Blue Rocks 8

CF Prades 3-5, K, RS, SB (6), CS (2) -- .271
RF Van Stratten 2-3, BB, SF, 2 RBI (12), 2 RS, 2 SB (6), OF assist at second -- .329
DH Stovall 2-5, 2 RBI (10), 2 K, 2 SB (3) -- .282
SS Mertins 2-5, 2B (3), RBI (6), 2 RS, E (4) -- .269
LF Ferguson 2-4, BB, K, RS -- .214
3B Batista 1-1, 2 BB, S, 2 RBI (19), RS, SB (3), CS (2) -- .209
2B Merrifield 1-3, 2 BB, 2B (22), RS, CS (10) -- .262

Marks 6 IP, 5 ER, 8 H, BB, 7 K, HRA -- 4.70 ERA
Paukovits 2 IP, 6 R (3 ER), 6 H, BB, 3 K, WP -- BS, 2, L, 1-2, 3.32 ERA

* Kinston slapped 11 on the Rocks and an 8th inning rally made the difference. Nick Van Stratten and Ryan Stovall hit RBI singles in the 1st but Justin Marks gave up 3 in the inning. Van Stratten hit a sac fly in the 2nd to tie it and Deivy Batista hit the go-ahead single in the 3rd. Marks held the lead for 2 batters as the Tribe tied it. A wild pitch and Batista squeeze bunt helped the Rocks take a 6-4 lead in the 5th and Kurt Mertins hit an RBI double in the 6th to make it 7-4. Marks gave up a solo homer in the 6th but Stovall singled in a run in the 8th to keep the lead at 3. Bryan Paukovits got the first 2 outs quickly in the 8th, but the third one was a toughie. Five hits, a walk, a 2-run error and RBI single tallied 6 runs to make it 11-8 Kinston. The Rocks went down without a fight in the 9th. Wilmington is 10-18. The series ends Sunday with Tim Melville returning to a starting slot.

A - Kane County: South Bend 4, Cougars 3

C David 3-4, 2B (5) -- .294
LF Fletcher 2-4, 2B (19), HR (8), 2 RBI (37), K, RS -- .337
SS Calixte 2-4, K -- .227
3B Cuthbert 1-3, BB, 2B (8), K -- .328
CF Eibner 0-4, 3 K -- .176

L. Perez 6 IP, 4 ER, 8 H, 2 K, HRA -- L, 2-11, 3.98 ERA
Giovenco 2 IP, 2 H, BB, K, E (2) -- 3.00 ERA

* Kane County bookended its runs and the Silver Hawks did enough in between to win the series opener. Brian Fletcher hit a 2-run homer (his 8th) in the 1st to spot Leondy Perez the lead. South Bend scored a run in the 3rd and then Perez served up a 3-run homer in the 4th to make it 4-2 Hawks. The Cougars stranded 2 in the 7th but looked ready to rally in the 9th as an error on a Kevin David single scored a run and put the tying run at second (tho Orlando Calixte ran into a killer out at third on the play), but the next two batters went down to end it. KC is 16-12. Jason Mitchell will make his Cougar debut in a Sunday spot start.

Rookie - Idaho Falls: Helena 8, Chukars 2 (Fri.)

2B Liberto 2-4, 2B (5), RBI (7), SB (6), E (3) -- .365
3B Threlkeld 2-4, 2 K -- .255
C Escobar 1-4, 2B (8), RBI (5), RS -- .341
LF Chism 0-4, K, OF assist at home -- .273
DH Davis 1-4, K -- .366
RF Elder 1-4, 3 K -- .438

Moen 4 2/3 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, 3 BB, 5 K, balk -- L, 2-1, 7.08 ERA
Penny IP, 4 ER, 3 H, BB, 2 K, HRA -- 10.17 ERA
Middendorf 1 1/3 IP, nothing -- 6.60 ERA
N. Johnson IP, nothing -- 6.00 ERA

* A 2-0 IF lead came and went quickly as the Brewers pulled away for an 8-2 win. Both teams threatened but came up empty in the 2nd. Idaho Falls manager Brian Buchanan got ejected in the 4th (I guess there were two longballs down the left field line in the game called foul that the Chukars disputed) but Edul Escobar and Michael Liberto hit 2-out RBI doubles to make it 2-0 IF. Kellen Moen gave up a 2-run double in the bottom of the inning and then gave up another 2-run double in the 5th before getting pulled. Helena added 4 in the 6th off Robert Penny to make it 8-2. IF stranded 1 in the 7th and that was their last scoring chance, as it ended up. IF is 13-18. Game 3 is tonight.

Rookie - Burlington: Danville 8, B-Royals 3

2B Trapp 2-2, BB, S, RS, CS (3) -- .294
C Swab 2-3, HBP, 2B, PB (4) -- .175
1B Watts 1-4, 2B (5), 2 RBI (30), K -- .288
SS Antonio 1-4, K -- .281

Yambati 2 2/3 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 3 H, BB, 3 K, HRA, pickoff -- 15.88 ERA
Ferguson 3 1/3 IP, H, 4 K -- 3.71 ERA
Graham 2/3 IP, 5 ER, 5 H, HRA -- L, 2-1, 3.27 ERA
Pizziconi 1 1/3 IP, 2 K -- 7.27 ERA

* A 5-run Braves 7th was the key to a Danville win. Danville started with 2 in the 1st and 1 in the 2nd off Robinson Yambati. Murray Watts hit a 2-run double in the 3rd and Burlington tied it in the 5th on a run-scoring wild pitch. Tyler Graham took over in the 7th after 3 1/3 scoreless from Andrew Ferguson and things headed south. A solo homer, 3-run double and sac fly blew it open in Danville's favor. The last 7 Royals went down in order. Burlington is 12-20. A 3-game home set with the Elizabethton Twins (19-13) starts Sunday.

Rookie - AZL: The Royals have jumped on the D-Backs early in tonight's game. Report tomorrow.