Ro Mueller

The AAA Sounds have dropped three consecutive games and will spend this week at Marlins’ affiliate Jacksonville. Rehabbing RHP Adrian Houser starts the opening game, having thrown 30 pitches in his last outing (2 IP, 0 R, 2 H, 2 BB, 2 Ks). 1B Jon Singleton (.790 OPS in 53 PAs) has reached base in his last 10 games.

Low-A Carolina is in Kinston, North Carolina this week to battle Rangers’ affiliate Down East. 19-year old RHP Patricio Aquino gets his second start at this level (4 IP, 2 R, 5 H, 2 BB, 4 Ks last time out). DH/3B Luke Adams (.286 AVG / .524 OBP / .643 SLG through 21 PAs) has an 11-game on-base streak (including 6 games in 2022).

The AA Shuckers are in Rocket City (outside of Huntsville, Alabama) this week to take on the Angels' affiliate. Starting LHP Adam Seminaris looks to bounce back from a rough first start (4 2/3 IP, 5 ER, 7 H, 1 BB, 6 Ks). 3B Tyler Black has a terrific slash through 7 games (.286 / .483 / .619).

High-A Wisconsin has won 3 games in a row and takes on Royals' affiliate Quad Cities this week, with LHP Russell Smith (2 2/3 IP, 0 R, 3 H, 0 BB, 5 Ks in last outing) getting his first start of 2023. RF Joe Gray Jr. (.344 AVG, .932 OPS in 37 PAs) comes in riding an 15-game on-base streak (carrying over 7 games from last year).

Clint Coulter, our 2012 first round pick, could actually earn his first MLB call-up (with the Giants). Once a catcher, now a 29-year old corner outfielder, he’s got a 14-game hitting streak and 19 RBIs in AAA Sacramento already.

In a reversal of early season form, the lower levels recorded two wins but Nashville and Biloxi fell. Aussie Alex Hall belted two no doubter homers, part of five blasts on the day. Image courtesy of BrewerFanatic Wisconsin won their first series, 4-2 over Peoria, while Carolina’s victory salvaged a 2-4 series loss. Biloxi will rue their missed chances, as their close defeat left them with a 3-3 tie against Pensacola. Nashville dropped its third straight game, also ending up level 3-3 against Norfolk for the week. Game Balls go to Aidan Maldonado, Alex Hall, Tyler Woessner, Tyler Black and Jesus Chirinos. Let’s also give a shout out to Carolina’s 19-year old SS Gregory Barrios, who ended his season-opening 0-for-27 skid with a single to center field, then followed it up with a triple for good measure. Transactions: RHP Elvis Peguero recalled to MLB Brewers from AAA Nashville (replacing injured RHP Gus Varland) Game Action: Nashville Pre-Game Media Notes Final: Norfolk 7, Nashville 1 Box Score / Game Log Via the Sounds’ website, game details, and we encourage readers to review the affiliate write-up as part of their Link Report routine: Sounds Sunk by Tides on Sunday The final score doesn’t do this game justice, as Nashville was one good swing from turning the tables over the first six innings. But give credit to Norfolk for scratching and clawing their way to runs until the Red Sea parted. The tight 2-0 game went sideways when the Tides’ catcher battled RHP Cam Robinson for a 12-pitch walk with one out in the top of the 7th inning. Another walk, a wild pitch, then an “everybody safe” fielder’s choice (take the out next time Eddy Alvarez) brought LHP Bennett Sousa into the game. Sousa conceded a little league 3-run homer (single, Blake Perkins error), then an actual blast to put the Sounds in a 7-0 hole. Three Quick Strikes: RHP Pedro Fernandez (3 IP, 1 R, 3 H, 1 BB, 3 Ks) deserved better than to be tagged with a loss, starting his second game in four days after exiting Thursday’s game early with a hand issue. He and RHP Tyson Miller (3 IP, 1 R, 3 H, 0 BB, 1 K) were both solid in keeping their team close over six innings. OF Sal Frelick walked, singled and flied out twice, but his average is just .196 (OPS .548) as he waits for more balls to land for hits. At the other end of the spectrum, INF/OF Keston Hiura lowered his K rate with a GIDP, two fly outs and then his 6th homer of 2023. Hiura’s OPS is an amazing 1.065 through 49 plate appearances. Three more errors (Miller, Perkins, Andruw Monasterio) won’t make Brewers’ brass or Manager Rick Sweet happy. The 7,106 Nashville fans in attendance deserve better baseball! Next week’s outlook: RHP Adrian Houser is expected to make his second rehab appearance, having thrown 30 pitches in his first outing, as Nashville (8-7) travels to Marlins’ affiliate Jacksonville (7-7) for the week. Biloxi Pre-Game Media Notes Final: Pensacola 4, Biloxi 2 Box Score / Game Log Via the Shuckers’ website, game details: Tyler Black Homers in Three-Hit Day, Shuckers fall to Blue Wahoos in Series Finale Chalk this up as a game which got away. An early 2-0 lead ended up being a 4-2 defeat, in part due to three runners getting caught on the basepaths and an error which led to an unearned run. Starting 23-year old RHP Justin Jarvis (5 IP, 3 R, 6 H, 2 BB, 1 WP, 5 Ks) took the loss, but was solid for his second consecutive start. 2B Ethan Murray (0-for-4) may be struggling a bit early with the bat (.200 AVG, .400 OPS), but this is a heck of a defensive play: Three Quick Strikes: The error and unearned run both went to LHP Darrell Thompson (2 IP, 1 R, 0 ER, 1 H, 0 BB, 3 Ks), though he still retains his early season 0.00 ERA. 22-year old 3B Tyler Black (3-for-4, HR, 2 RBIs) is a real pro, putting early season bad luck (0-for-10 with 3 Ks and 4 walks) behind him. His first inning homer was his second of the year and his season OPS is now 1.102 through 29 plate appearances. Development is a huge part of minor league decision making, with winning seeming secondary at times. But that doesn’t explain sending a runner to his demise at home when trailing 4-2 with two outs in the bottom of the seventh inning. INF/OF Isaac Collins had drawn his second walk of the game, then OF Jackson Chourio (1-for-4, double; .189 AVG; .690 OPS) came through with a 2-out double to center field which would have brought up the aforementioned Black. Instead, Collins was a dead duck at home and Biloxi never threatened again. Here's Black’s impressive power: Weekend Pregame Audio Interviews: Tyler Black and Bullpen Coach Josh Spence Next week’s outlook: The Shuckers (5-4) travel to Angels’ affiliate Rocket City (6-3), with 24-year old LHP Adam Seminaris (4.2 IP, 5 ER, 7 H, 1 BB, 6 Ks in his first game) scheduled to start the opener. Wisconsin Pre-Game Media Notes Final: Wisconsin 5, Peoria 1 Box Score / Game Log Via the Timber Rattlers’ website, game details: Wisconsin Pops Peoria 5-1 to Win Series Also find Youtube highlights from Wisconsin’s exceptional media team here: The Timber Rattlers bounced back exceptionally well from consecutive one-run losses earlier in the week, winning three games in a row for a 4-2 home series victory. The team only managed four hits today, but three of them were home runs (C/OF Alex Hall x 2, DH/1B Jesus Chirinos x 1), with four out of five runs coming home via long balls. Winning 23-year old RHP Tyler Woessner (5 IP, 1 R, 4 H, 1 BB, 8 Ks) was hit around a bit in the first two innings (two singles, double), but got stronger as the game progressed, striking out six of the final seven batters he faced. Three Quick Strikes: Have the Brewers unearthed something special in 2022 undrafted 24-year old RHP Ryan Brady (3 IP, 0 R, 1 H, 0 BB, 2 Ks – 1.13 ERA through 8 IP), similar to Peter Strzelecki a few years back? Skipping the Low-A level after just 4 innings pitched at Arizona Brewers Blue in 2022 looked like an aggressive placement, but he’s quickly rewarding the Brewers faith and turning heads. Having 22-year old C Darrien Miller (0-for-2, 2 walks, SB) repeat High-A ball was likely a difficult off-season decision, but his 12% caught stealing rate in 2022 and 13% in 2021 likely factored heavily. That’s why it’s so uplifting to see Miller throw out all three attempted basestealers on Sunday, lifting his early season rate to 33%. Keep it up! SS Eric Brown Jr. (0-for-4) had looked like the missing ingredient in the Timber Rattlers’ season-opening 2-1 series loss last week, but he wasn’t able to contribute much in his first week of action either (.115 AVG, .294 OPS through 28 PAs). We look forward to seeing Mr. Brown turn it around soon. Next week’s outlook: Wisconsin (5-4) goes on the road to take on Royals’ affiliate Quad Cities (3-5), with 24-year old LHP Russell Smith (2 2/3 IP, 0 R, 3 H, 0 BB, 5 Ks in his first game) expected to start the series opener. Carolina Pre-Game Media Notes Final: Carolina 7, Salem 0 Box Score / Game Log Via the Mudcats’ website, game details: Mudcats Ride Early Rally to 7-0 Finale Shutout The expected pitchers’ duel never materialized, as the Mudcats erupted for seven runs on seven hits in the first inning. All of the runs were unearned(!), as the frame had opened with back-to-back errors and a groundout. All nine Carolina batters reached base in this game, as the squad coasted to a shutout victory. Three Quick Strikes: While the spotlight is rightfully on 22-year old RHP Aidan Maldonado (3 IP, 0 R, 1 H, 1 BB, 3 Ks) for a stellar second outing, every Mudcats pitcher is feeling good after this game: RHP Jeison Pena (1 IP, 0 R), RHP Alexander Vallecillo (3 IP, 0 R, 2 Ks), RHP Tanner Shears (1 IP, 0 R, 2 Ks), RHP Shane Smith (1 IP, 0 R, 1 K). In a recent interview, Maldonado mentioned that the Brewers had spoken to him in the 12th round about likely selecting him, ultimately picking him in the 14th round. Well, the team must be ecstatic about grabbing 3B Luke Adams (1-for-4, double, walk, RBI, SB) in that 12th round ($282,500 signing bonus), then still getting Maldonado thereafter. 18-year old Adams’ athleticism has me thinking of Joey Wiemer – 6’4” specimens who can launch balls into orbit and cover ground too. After swiping his third stolen base of 2023 today, Adams now has 12 stolen bases in just 16 career games played. SS Gregory Barrios (2-for-5, triple, RBI, SB) batted twice in the first inning, reaching on an error and grounding into an RBI force out, thus extending his hitless streak to start to the season to 0-for-27. Undeterred, the 19-year old lined a first pitch single into center field in the 3rd inning, then tripled to center in the 5th inning. He’s now up to a .067 AVG and .227 OPS, but the former $1 million signing (in Chourio’s January 2021 international class) is undoubtedly breathing a sigh of relief. Next week’s outlook: The Mudcats (3-5) travel to Rangers’ affiliate Down East (5-3) for the week. The Game One starter is not yet listed, though any of RHPs Jeferson Figueroa, Patricio Aquino or Tyler Wehrle could get the call. We hope that you enjoy the Minor League Link Report! Relax on the Monday travel day before action resumes on Tuesday. Organizational Scoreboard including starting pitcher info, game times, MiLB TV links, and box scores Current Milwaukee Brewers Organization Batting Stats and Depth Current Milwaukee Brewers Organization Pitching Stats and Depth View full article

RHP Elvis Peguero recalled to MLB Brewers from AAA Nashville (replacing injured Gus Varland)

- C Brent Diaz activated by AAA Nashville from Development List

Definitely didn’t have this on my Bingo card: - Bryse Wilson (MLB) - 1.00 ERA in 9 IP - Jake Cousins (AAA) - 19.29 ERA in 2.1 IP Cousins will figure it out eventually. Tipping my cap to Bryse Wilson, Matt Arnold and the coaching staff

Two of his homers were on low pitches and look like this:

Uribe’s smoking gun celebration! 😁🤣

INF Josh VanMeter activated from AAA Nashville's 7-day injured list OF Skye Bolt placed on AAA Nashville’s 7-day injured list RHP Adrian Houser sent to AAA Nashville on rehab assignment

Brewers affiliates won two of five games on Thursday, including a doubleheader split for Biloxi and frustrating losses for Wisconsin and Carolina. Image courtesy of BrewerFanatic Game Balls go to Keston Hiura, Blake Perkins, Zavier Warren, Lamar Sparks and 18-year old Luke Adams, who crushed his first home run at the Low-A level. Transactions: RHP Colin Rea's contract selected by MLB Brewers from AAA Nashville RHP Janson Junk optioned to AAA Nashville from MLB Brewers C Payton Henry designated for assignment. If he clears waivers, the Brewers can outright him to keep him in the minors INF Patrick Dorrian activated by AAA Nashville from Development List RHP Jacob Misiorowski activated by Low-A Carolina from Development List RHP Fernando Olguin transferred to Development List from Low-A Carolina Game Action: Nashville Pre-Game Media Notes Final: Nashville 5, Norfolk 2 Box Score / Game Log Via the Sounds’ website, game details, and we encourage readers to review the affiliate write-up as part of their Link Report routine: Sounds Topple Tides for Third Straight Triumph The Sounds won their third game in a row despite losing scheduled starting pitcher RHP Colin Rea to promotion (congrats), left fielder Skye Bolt after two innings and replacement starting RHP Pedro Fernandez (2 IP, 2 R, 1 H, 4 BB, 0 Ks, 1 balk) to a hand injury after loading the bases with nobody out in the third inning. After falling behind 2-1 in that third inning, hot-hitting OF Blake Perkins (2-for-4) and INF/OF Keston Hiura (1-for-3, HR, walk, 2 RBIs) immediately responded in the bottom half with a single and 2-run blast, respectively. Hiura now has four home runs and 9 RBIs in the young 2023 season. Nashville would not require any further runs, as the shutdown bullpen of RHP Luis Contreras, RHP Cam Robinson, LHP Bennett Sousa (in his Brewers’ debut) and LHP Clayton Andrews (earning the save) was up to the task, covering seven scoreless innings with 12 strikeouts. Three Quick Strikes: RHP Luis Contreras (3 IP, 0 R, 2 H, 2 BB, 4 Ks) did very well to only allow two inherited runners to score in that third inning, inducing two weak grounders (one for a hit), a sacrifice fly and striking out one, before continuing with two scoreless innings and earning the win. Yay, outfield defense. Boo, infield defense. Bolt and Perkins helped out Sounds pitchers by throwing out three Tides on the basepaths – a runner at home in the 1st inning, another at third base in the 4th inning and the final one at second base in the 6th inning. But in the infield, Hiura and Eddy Alvarez each recorded a throwing error, as the team awaits the return-to-health of Cam Devanney and Josh Vanmeter. The balls may not yet be dropping for OF Sal Frelick (.209 AVG, .571 OPS), but the contact remains decent so the hits will come. He hit two line drives in four at-bats in this game, the latter a single in the 7th inning which finally put him on base. He and Alvarez then orchestrated a double steal, inducing a Norfolk error for a 4-2 lead. Frelick ultimately scored on a Jon Singleton RBI single for the final margin. I don’t know who taught this tagging Norfolk runner to look behind him while running home, but we thank him/her: Friday’s outlook: After Janson Junk and Colin Rea were called up for MLB starts, then Fernandez exited Thursday’s game early, I suspect a bullpen game may be in store on Friday. Will Manager Rick Sweet call on LHP Alex Claudio to cover the first 2-3 innings? Biloxi Pre-Game Media Notes Game One Final: Biloxi 6, Pensacola 4 Box Score / Game Log Game Two Final: Pensacola 6, Biloxi 2 Box Score / Game Log Via the Shuckers’ website, game details: Shuckers, Blue Wahoos Split Doubleheader The Shuckers and Blue Wahoos made up for Wednesday’s rainout with a doubleheader which featured a particularly eventful opening game. Starting RHP Tobias Myers (4.2 IP, 4 R, 8 H, 0 BB, 5 Ks) wasn’t able to replicate his sizzling opening day victory, but he kept the squad in the game until OF Noah Campbell (2-for-3, RBI) and SS Freddy Zamora (1-for-3, double, 2 RBIs, SB) came through with clutch RBI hits in the bottom of the 6th inning to turn a 4-2 late deficit into a 6-4 victory. The night cap saw the official debut of LHP Adam Seminaris (4.2 IP, 5 R, 7 H, BB, 6 Ks), who was a key piece of the Hunter Renfroe trade. Unfortunately, he wilted after four innings of respectable work, allowing five of the first six batters to reach base in the 5th inning to see a 1-1 game quickly turn into a 5-1 deficit. At least Tyler Black collected his first hit of 2023, an opposite field homer: Three Quick Strikes: LHP Darrell Thompson and RHP Abner Uribe are quite the 1-2 punch at the back end of the bullpen, combining to cover 2 1/3 scoreless, hitless innings to close out the opening game win. 1B/3B Zavier Warren is seeing the ball well, reaching base in four of six plate appearances on Thursday, including a 2-run homer which started the comeback in the opener. His OPS is up to .947 (small sample alert). OF Lamar Sparks (signed in the offseason after a season in independent ball) is also justifying the organization’s faith in him, leading off both games and reaching base six times in eight opportunities (two doubles, a single, three walks). His OPS is a terrific 1.078. Friday’s outlook: Off-season free agent signing, 23-year old RHP Christian Mejias is set to make his first start in the Brewers’ organization, after conceding four runs in two innings of relief in his debut. Wisconsin Pre-Game Media Notes Final: Wisconsin 4, Peoria 3 Box Score / Game Log Via the Timber Rattlers’ website, game details: Chiefs Edge Rattlers A day after giving a game away, Wisconsin once again leaves disappointed and feeling that they could have done more, dropping to 2-4 on the season. However, there was at least some decent post-game news, as Manager Joe Ayrault clarified that a scary ankle injury to promising OF Hendry Mendez has him listed as “day-to-day”. Three Quick Strikes: The mood soured quickly in this game, as Mendez injured his ankle when caught stealing to end the first inning, followed by the Chiefs grabbing a 2-0 lead a few batters later. Although the Timber Rattlers matched Peoria’s seven hits, they really only threatened in the 5th inning. Starting RHP Joseph Hernandez (4 IP, 3 R, 4 H, 3 BB, 2 HBP, 4 Ks) dealt with traffic in three of his four innings, clearly struggling on his pitch location. The second inning saw a double, RBI triple and RBI double hit back-to-back-to-back, each pulled to the corner outfielder. Hernandez clearly has immense talent, but there’s a reason the 22-year old is still at the High-A ball in his sixth year of minor league baseball. Although his numbers are decent thus far (.278 AVG, .992 OPS), this game still constitutes a missed opportunity for DH/1B Ernesto Martinez’s to earn his anticipated promotion to AA, going 0-for-4 while stranding five runners on base, including grounding out with 2-on, 1-out in the bottom of the 5th inning after OF Terence Doston’s RBI single brought the team to within 3-2. Friday’s outlook: RHP Cam Wagoner (4.50 ERA in 4 IP) is scheduled to make his second start, as the Timber Rattlers aim to end their 2-game losing streak. Carolina Pre-Game Media Notes Final: Salem 7, Carolina 6 (in 10 innings) Box Score / Game Log Via the Mudcats’ website, game details: Salem Sends Mudcats to 7-6 Loss in Extras The positives from this game were the successful Low-A debut of highly-regarded 2022 second round pick RHP Jacob Misiorowski, who started the game and retired all three batters that he faced, along with 18-year old 3B Luke Adams’ maiden home run at this level. We now have videos to prove that Misiorowski’s 101mph heat is glorious and the 3-time National Punt, Pass & Kick Champion Adams has incredible athleticism for his size. Other than that, this Carolina-Salem contest was a not-so-classic game of “He Who Blunders Last”, as the Red Sox out-hit the Mudcats 11-5, but kept Carolina in the game with untimely walks and having three players thrown out on the basepaths. After RHP Jeison Pena (2/3 IP, 3 R, 3 H, 1 BB, 0 Ks; 22.50 ERA) struggled yet again to put the team behind 5-2, the Red Sox promptly threw the Mudcats a lifeline by walking three of the first four batters in the bottom of the 7th inning. A subsequent balk even gave Carolina a 6-5 lead, which held up until a game-tying home run off RHP Shane Smith to open the 9th inning. The final blunder went to the Mudcats however, who should have tied the game with 2-on and nobody out in the bottom of 10th inning on a Luke Adams (2-for-4, HR, walk, RBI) single. Instead, ghost runner 2B Jadher Areinamo stopped at third base and C Matthew Wood was caught between second and third base for the first out of the frame. Areinamo then watched helplessly as OF Hedbert Perez flied out to shallow left and two-way player Quinton Low (0-for-4, walk in his position player Low-A debut) popped out to end the game. Three Quick Strikes: It’s crazy that 18-year old Adams is the team’s principal offensive threat at the moment. The team desperately misses OF Luis Castillo (out with an injury that’s thankfully not long-term) and 1B/C Tayden Hall (exited Tuesday’s game early). Also, OF Jace Avina had been expected to provide key offense, but he’s hitless through five games and ended up exiting this game on a hit-by-pitch in the final inning. Let’s hope he’s not sidelined. Other than Misiorowski, only RHP Edwin Jimenez (5 IP, 2 R, 5 H, 1 BB, 5 Ks) truly acquitted himself well in this game, covering five innings to give time for the offense to come around OR Salem to allow the team back in it. Back to the lack of hitting, 19-year old SS Gregory Barrios may have the glove for this level, but his 0-for-22 start at the plate must be a cause for concern. Thankfully, he’s only struck out seven times, but he’s also not drawn a walk. Manager Victor Estevez seriously has his work cut out for him in the early going this year. Friday’s outlook: RHP Yujanyer Herrera (0.00 ERA through 3 IP) is scheduled to try to right the ship, as Carolina will make their fourth attempt to win a home game. We hope that you enjoy the Minor League Link Report! Organizational Scoreboard including starting pitcher info, game times, MiLB TV links, and box scores Current Milwaukee Brewers Organization Batting Stats and Depth Current Milwaukee Brewers Organization Pitching Stats and Depth View full article

RHP Jacob Misiorowski activated by Low-A Carolina from Development List RHP Fernando Olguin transferred to Development List from Low-A Carolina

RHP Colin Rea's contract selected by MLB Brewers from AAA Nashville RHP Janson Junk optioned to AAA Nashville from MLB Brewers C Payton Henry designated for assignment. If he clears waivers, the Brewers can outright him to keep him in the minors INF Patrick Dorrian activated by AAA Nashville from Development List

RHP James Meeker activated by AA Biloxi from Development List RHP Robbie Baker activated by AA Biloxi from Development List RHP Justin Yeager placed on AA Biloxi's 7-day injured list RHP Zach Vennaro placed on AA Biloxi's 7-day injured list

- RHP Alexander Vallecillo activated by Low-A Carolina from Development List - C Johnnys Cabrera transferred to Development List from Low-A Carolina

In addition to Leoni De La Cruz (mentioned above), a number of other ex-farmhands have recently signed or switched clubs in independent ball: Trevor Tietz – Gateway Grizzlies Arnaldo Hernandez – Frederick Baseball Club Robbie Hitt – Sussex County Miners Jon Beymer – Evansville Otters Noah Zavolas – York Revolution JT Hintzen – York Revolution Nate Peden – Frederick Baseball Club Freisis Adames – Sussex County Miners Jesus Lujano – Chicago Dogs Patrick Weigel – Kansas City Monarchs Nick Belzer – New Jersey Jackals Peyton Long – Rocky Mountain Vibes John LaRossa – Missoula Paddleheads Franklin Hernandez – Quebec Capitales Rodrigo Benoit – Generales de Durango Mitch Ghelfi – Charleston Dirty Birds Wilber Perez – Empire State Greys

Erceg, Andrews, Miller and Peguero give us four intriguing, seemingly MLB-capable relief arms in AAA. I hope Erceg doesn’t have an early opt-out!

Hats off to Arnold (Anderson, Winker, Contreras, Miley, Varland, Junk, Tyson Miller, Perkins, Peguero) and Counsell (he clearly wanted Turang and Wiemer up). Keep it up!!!

Spencer Michaelis has given us some excellent content regarding 20-year old two-way playing Mudcat RHP/1B Quinton Low, who covered two scoreless innings in Carolina’s opening game victory:

Biloxi pitchers struck out 14 batters in their series-clinching win. Robert Moore’s big day went for naught for Wisconsin, while Shane Smith helped the Carolina escape with a series split. Image courtesy of BrewerFanatic Sunday Game Balls go to Carlos F. Rodriguez, Shane Smith, Robert Moore, Lamar Sparks and Jesus Parra. Nick Bennett and newcomer Darrell Thompson also had big days in Biloxi’s impressive 2-hit shutout. For the week, Nashville (3-3) and Carolina (1-1) split their respective series, while the Shuckers came out winners (2-1) and Wisconsin lost a tight one (1-2). All four full season affiliates will return home for six games starting Tuesday, including home openers for Biloxi, Wisconsin and Carolina. Transactions: LHP Bennett Sousa acquired from Reds for cash and international bonus money, then assigned to AAA Nashville RHP Tyler Herb placed on AAA Nashville’s 7-day injured list RHP Luis Contreras activated by AAA Nashville from Development List Game Action: Nashville Pre-Game Media Notes Final: Memphis 6, Nashville 1 Box Score / Game Log Via the Sounds’ website, game details, and we encourage readers to review the affiliate write-up as part of their Link Report routine: Sounds Settle For Series Split With Sunday Loss in Memphis A win would have given Nashville their second straight series win, but unfortunately this game went off the rails from the word “go”. Starting RHP Robert Stock (1 IP, 5 R, 3 H, 1 BB, 3 HBP, 1 WP) hit the leadoff batter in the bottom of the first inning, conceding three runs in the frame on an array of singles, walks and a wild pitch. After a game off, Keston Hiura (1-for-4, HR, RBI) manned first base, pulling a run back in the 2nd inning with his second homer of 2023, but Stock’s nightmare worsened as the first four batters reached in the bottom of the second inning. Entering with the bases loaded and nobody out, RHP Luis Contreras did well to only allow one inherited runner to score. However, Contreras then allowed a run of his own via a walk and RBI double in the bottom of the 3rd inning, as the Redbirds built their unassailable 6-1 lead. The loss meant the teams spilt the series 3-3. This game wasn’t remotely competitive, partly evidenced by Nashville going 0-for-2 with runners in scoring position, versus Memphis going 2-for-17 in this department. Seven Sounds pitchers saw action, with LHP Clayton Andrews and RHP Elvis Peguero probably the most impressive (combined 1.2 IP, 0 R, 1 H, 0 BB, 3 Ks). LHP Ethan Small also struck out three batters after allowing a double. Three Quick Strikes: After seeing action in the majors four straight seasons (2018-2021), then throwing 165 IP in Korea last year, 33-year old Stock is clearly a capable pitcher, but he needs to right his 2023 ship in a hurry. He has two losses and a 24.30 ERA, retiring just 10 of 25 batters that he’s faced. OF Sal Frelick had his second straight 0-for-4 game. We’re not likely to see many slumps for the 22-year old, so the bright side is that this is happening in AAA, not MLB. He still has only three strikeouts in 35 plate appearances, so the plus contact rate remains. Not only did Memphis outhit Nashville 8-3, they also ran the Sounds ragged: 6-for-6 in stolen base attempts against four pitchers, including two swipes of third base. Trust C Payton Henry and other Sounds’ catchers to be on a mission to improve next week. This week’s outlook: The Sounds (5-4) return home to face Norfolk (7-1), with RHP Caleb Boushley (1.42 ERA in 6 1/3 IP) scheduled to make his third start of 2023. Biloxi Pre-Game Media Notes Final: Biloxi 4, Mississippi 0 Box Score / Game Log Via the Shuckers’ website, game details: Carlos Rodriguez, Nick Bennett, Darrell Thompson Pave Way to 4-0 Shuckers Win It wasn’t exactly Super Bowl-level hype, but we were certainly psyched for 21-year old RHP Carlos F. Rodriguez’s debut in AA ball and he did not disappoint, retiring 10 of the first 11 batters he faced, including five consecutive strikeouts during one stretch. Pulled after 66 pitches, he struck out eight hitters in four innings of scoreless work, only yielding a single and three walks. After putting three runners on base in the first two innings but failing to score, the Shuckers’ offense came through with clutch two-out extra base hits in the top of the 3rd inning: OF Lamar Sparks RBI double, 3B Zavier Warren RBI triple, OF Tristen Lutz RBI double. The 3-0 lead was more than Biloxi’s stellar hurlers would require on Sunday. Led by Rodriguez, LHP Nick Bennett (credited with the win) and LHP Darrell Thompson, Biloxi dominated the Braves in all facets of the series-clinching game, striking out 14 batters, outhitting them 8-2, limiting them to one at-bat with runners in scoring position (0-for-1) and throwing out their only basestealer (well done C Jeferson Quero). The win gave the Shuckers a 2-1 series victory. Three Quick Strikes: Seven dominant starts in High-A ball last year was sufficient for the Brewers to give 21-year old Nicaraguan Rodriguez the quick promotion to AA. His only difficulty was with a tight strike zone, issuing three walks on full counts, the last loading the bases in the bottom of the 4th inning. He didn’t back down, however, striking his final batter swinging on four pitches. Sparks’ third inning double was his first hit in affiliated baseball since September 2021, as the former fifth round pick spent 2022 in independent baseball following a release by the Orioles. These kinds of performances (2-for-4, double, walk, RBI, SB) will likely earn him more playing time. Speaking of independent ball, Darrell Thompson must be the organization’s resident expert on the subject. A 2016 graduate of Shenandoah University (Virginia), Thompson spent 2016-2022 playing for four independent clubs in four different leagues! What a debut for this “young” man (he’s actually 28): 2 IP, 0 R, 0 H, 1 BB, 4 Ks). Let’s keep an eye on his progress and Nick Bennett as well (3 IP, 0 R, 1 H, 1 BB, 2 Ks). Most of Rodriguez’s strikeouts came on high heat. Here's the call on the last one: This week’s outlook: Biloxi (2-1) has its first home series of the year, hosting Pensacola (1-2). RHP Justin Jarvis (3.83 ERA in 141 IP last year) is expected to make his first start of 2023. Wisconsin Pre-Game Media Notes Final: Beloit 5, Wisconsin 4 (in 10 innings) Box Score / Game Log Via the Timber Rattlers’ website, game details: Beloit Tops Wisconsin in the Tenth for a 5-4 win The Timber Rattlers and Sky Carp battled hard in this series-deciding game, with Wisconsin falling just short, particularly hampered by going 0-for-11 with runners in scoring position and also having two runners caught on the basepaths. Seventh-year minor leaguer 1B Ernesto Martinez (1-for-2, HR, 2 walks, RBI) opened the scoring with an opposite field solo blast in the 2nd inning before starting RHP Stiven Cruz (4 IP, 2 R, 3 H, 2 BB, 3 Ks) found trouble in the bottom half in conceding two runs on two singles, a walk and a sacrifice fly. SS Robert Moore (2-for-4, HR, double, walk, 2 RBIs) immediately responded with a deep 2-run blast to center field in the top of the 3rd inning, his first homer of 2023, followed by a Joe Gray Jr. RBI double for a 4-2 lead. Cruz settled down for the next two innings, not allowing any runners past first base, but normally-reliable RHP Brannon Jordan was hit hard in one inning of work: 2 runs on 2 doubles and 2 singles, with the game only remaining tied 4-4 thanks to a Sky Carp baserunner returning to third base due to a ground rule double. Independent league signing RHP Kaleb “Bo” Bowman only got to throw two pitches in his organizational debut, giving up a walk-off single to right field to the only batter he faced in the bottom of the 10th inning. Three Quick Strikes: RHPs Joey Matulovich and Taylor Floyd were terrific in keeping Wisconsin in the game with their relief work, combining to cover four scoreless innings (4 IP, 0 R, 1 H, 1 BB, 4 Ks, one balk, one pick-off by Matulovich). OF Je’Von Ward collected his first hit since August 2021 with a leadoff double in the 9th inning, but was unfortunately stranded as the team followed with a sacrifice bunt, 2-0 pop-up to the catcher, then Moore striking out on the 9th pitch of a gutty at-bat. Interpreting hints on Twitter can be difficult, but it seems clear that the team expects 2022 first round pick SS Eric Brown Jr. to join the lineup this week. This week’s outlook: The Timber Rattlers (1-2) head back to Appleton for their home opener, with Peoria (0-3) coming to town. 2022 first round draft pick SS Eric Brown Jr. is expected to make his 2023 debut and RHP Tyler Woessner (1.17 ERA in 7 2/3 IP in 2022) is scheduled for his first start of the season. Carolina Pre-Game Media Notes Game One (Resumption) Final: Carolina 5, Fayetteville 3 (in 10 innings) Box Score / Game Log Game Two Final: Fayetteville 7, Carolina 1 Box Score / Game Log Via the Mudcats’ website, game details: Mudcats Open With Split in Fayetteville In a continuation of Friday’s rain-suspended game from the top of the 6th inning with the score tied 1-1, Carolina immediately knocked in two runs for a 3-1 lead on a 1B Tayden Hall single, 3B Daniel Guilarte RBI single and 2B Jadher Areinamo sacrifice fly. However, the Mudcats regretted failing to take advantage of inning-opening walks in the 8th and 9th innings when RHP Jeison Pena fell apart in the bottom of the 9th inning, allowing the first four batters to reach and tie the game 3-3 with two on and nobody out. With another nine innings to play in the second game of the day, Manager Victor Estevez appeared set to allow Pena to wear this one, but C Matthew Wood caught a foul tip strikeout for the first out before Jeison hit his second batter of the inning to load the bases. In trotted RHP Shane Smith (1 2/3 IP, 0 R, 0 H, 1 BB, 0 Ks) for his season debut and his very first pitch was a grounder to Areinamo, which triggered a 4-2-3 double play great escape! Some typical low minors ugliness by the Woodpeckers in the 10th inning (two errors, hit-by-pitch to give Mudcats a 5-3 lead in the top half; ghost runner caught stealing in the bottom half) helped Smith earn a deserved win. Highlights can be difficult to find on the road, but Carolina’s media team came through: 19-year old RHP Yujanyer Herrera (3 IP, 0 R, 0 H, 4 BB, 4 Ks, 1 WP) started the nightcap, which was scoreless and hitless through three innings. However, the game was all Woodpeckers from there, as they managed to get seven runs across despite going 3-for-16 with RISP while stranding 10 runners. The Mudcats were even worse in the clutch department, going 1-for-11 with RISP while stranding 12 on the basepaths. The second contest was a game of debuts, as RHPs Chase Costello and Tanner Shears (both independent ball signings) made their first official appearances, along with 2022 eighth round draft pick LHP Nate Peterson. Peterson was hit hard, tagged with the loss after giving up 5 runs on 6 hits in 2 innings of work. RHP Nick Merkel also saw his first action in Low-A, striking out the first two batters before giving up two runs on two hits and a walk in the 8th inning. Here's Areinamo helping Costello throw a clean inning: Three Quick Strikes: We weren’t sure how serious the Tayden Hall catching experiment was after he never featured as the starting catcher in any of the spring training lineup cards (thank you @BrewersPD), but he was the man behind the plate for nine innings on this night. Statistically, he allowed three passed balls and two stolen bases, while his pitchers also threw three wild pitches. We know the 6’4” Hall can hit (3-for-7, 2 walks, RBI over two games), but it’s to-be-determined whether he catches or plays first base. We do our best to read the tea leaves in spring training, but those snippets were telling me that 20-year old 1B Jesus Parra was likely on his way out the door, as he was given the “last-gasp treatment”, starting a number of ST games with the AAA/AA squads, after coming off an 8 BB / 47 K season with ACL Brewers Gold last year. However, Parra beat the odds to make the opening day Mudcats’ roster and continued his resurgence this evening: 2-for-3, 2 doubles, walk, stolen base. Herrera and Shears must have drunk some magic potion to not yield any runs. Herrera put runners on 2nd and 3rd with nobody out in the bottom of the 1st inning (2 walks, wild pitch), yet escaped. Shears gave up three walks, hit a batter, threw a wild pitch and gave up a stolen base, all in the bottom of the 7th inning, but escaped, helping himself with a pick-off. This week’s outlook: The Mudcats (1-1) will host Salem (1-2) for six games. Although no starting pitcher has been named for the home opener, possibilities include RHPs Patricio Aquino, Fernando Olguin or Tyler Wehrle. We hope that you enjoy the Minor League Link Report! Rest up on Monday’s Minor League off-day before 24 games over six days starting on Tuesday. 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