Jim Goulart

Once again, while not official, it's apparent 10th round RHP Greg Miller, out of Seton Hall, will be signing. Link while active, text follows: Brewers draft Hammonton alumnus Greg Miller By MICHAEL McGARRY, Atlantic City (N.J.) Press Staff Writer Greg Miller wasn't even 2 years old when he used to wake his dad, Gene, up at 6:30 a.m. for batting practice with a Wiffle ball. Those early mornings paid off for the Hammonton resident Friday afternoon. The Milwaukee Brewers selected the Seton Hall University standout in the 10th round of Major League Baseball's First-Year Player Draft. Miller, a 2005 Hammonton graduate, was the 308th pick. "It's a great day for me and my family," Miller, a pitcher, said. "It's always been a goal of mine to be a professional baseball player. I'm glad it came true." Miller, 21, was watching the Georgia-North Carolina State college baseball game on television at the Red Bank home of friend and Seton Hall teammate Corey Young when his advisor/agent Jon Pridie called to tell Miller the Brewers had selected him. Young had reason to celebrate a few moments later as the Texas Rangers selected him in the 12th round. The Brewers selected the 6-foot-4, 205-pound Miller as a pitcher. He was 3-4 with a 3.63 ERA in nine starts and 12 appearances this season. Miller also excelled as an outfielder, however, batting .340 and earning third-team All-Big East honors. "I don't care what they need me to do," Miller said. "I'll still get to hit some because I'm with a National League team." Miller first rose to prominence at Hammonton High School, where he was a Press All-Star in 2004 and 2005. Miller batted .373 for the Blue Devils as a senior and knocked in 31 runs. He hit .403 as a junior. Miller first worked out for the Brewers while still in high school. "Ever since then, they've been looking at me while I was in college," he said. The Brewers have a history with local players. Milwaukee took Darren Ford of Vineland in the 18th round of the 2004 draft. Ford is with Milwaukee's high single-A team, the Brevard County Manatees. The Brewers signed George West, a former Buena Regional and Monmouth University standout, as a free agent in 1998. Miller said he and Pridie planned to speak this weekend with the Brewers. Miller probably will soon be headed to Milwaukee's Rookie league team in Helena, Mont. Miller can't wait. "I'm ready and excited to go there and do something that I've always wanted to," he said. "Playing before fans, having little kids come up to ask for your autograph, that's what it's all about." Much more, including colbyjack's Brewerfan.net Scouting Report on Miller, can be found here http://www.nmnathletics.com.edgesuite.net/pics28/200/JX/JXAHAUGIUHJQFVI.20080131202042.jpg

Again, while not an "official" signing, it's pretty apparent 14th round pick, catcher Corey Kemp, out of East Carolina, is joining the Brewers. Also out of ECU, second baseman Ryan Wood was picked up by the Brewers in the 42nd round, although his signing status is less certain. Link while active, text follows: ECU's Kemp, Wood selected by Brewers By KEVIN TRAVIS, Washington (N.C.) Daily News Sports Editor GREENVILLE - Corey Kemp's vacation to Hilton Head looks like it will be cut a bit short, but that's just fine with him. Kemp, East Carolina's catcher, was selected in the 14th round with the 428th overall pick in the Major League Draft by the Milwaukee Brewers on Friday. The affable ECU senior said he found out about the selection while talking with teammate and roommate, Ryan Wood. "I've been driving in the car and I was talking with Ryan on the phone," Kemp said. "He was watching the draft and about two seconds into the conversation, he said, 'congratulations, you were just picked by the Brewers in the 14th round.' I thought he was joking because we joke around a lot. "About two seconds later, the Brewers called me and told me about it. I guess he wasn't joking." The Franklin, Tenn., native said he'll be able to relax now knowing where he's headed. "I was a little on edge (Thursday) about where I was going," Kemp said. "Now that I know where I'm going, there's a sigh of relief. I'll be nervous for my teammates the rest of the day, but I can breathe a sigh of relief now." Kemp, the Conference USA Player of the Year, led the Pirates with 18 home runs and 72 RBIs. The home run total is tied for eighth all-time in a single season by a Pirate, while the RBI total ranks third best all-time. He also hit .341, which ranked fourth highest on the team. Kemp said the team took precedent over any of his personal accomplishments. "The whole season was amazing," he said. "We put in a lot of hard work to reach 40 wins (42) and get to the regionals. We didn't end up where we wanted, but it was an amazing season." A co-captain with ECU this year, Kemp said he was surprised to be drafted so high. "I'm shocked and amazed," he said. "God works in mysterious ways. I really didn't have a gauge on where I'd go but, to me, 14th round is pretty high." Kemp said he's excited to play with the Brewers. "The Brewers are a great organization," he said. "Their Triple AAA team (Nashville Sounds in Nashville, Tenn.) is in my back yard from where I grew up and I went to a lot of their games. It's a great organization to get drafted into." Kemp said he was awaiting a follow-up phone call from a Brewers' scout to tell him where and when he'd be going. Milwaukee's minor league affiliates include the Arizona Brewers, the Helena (Mt.) Brewers, both rookie league teams, and Class A teams the Brevard County (Viera, Fla.) Manatees and the West Virginia (Charleston, W.V) Power. "I'm just excited to go play," Kemp said. "ECU has prepared me to play at the next level. I'm ready and I couldn't be happier." Junior second baseman Ryan Wood was picked up by the Brewers in the 42nd round with the 1.268th pick. Wood finished his junior campaign with 13 homers, 51 RBIs and a .306 batting average. Lots more, including colbyjack's Brewerfan.net Scouting Report on Kemp, here http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/ecu/sports/m-basebl/auto_action/1969575.jpeg

Link while active, text follows: Weaver gets two hits to go with win By MAURICE PATTON Tennessean Staff Writer Wins have been rare for Jeff Weaver since joining the Sounds, but the major league veteran's performance at the plate Friday night against Albuquerque was even more unusual. Beating out a two-out bunt in the sixth inning after his third-inning base hit, Weaver's 2-for-3 effort marked the first multiple-hit game by a Nashville pitcher since Adam Pettyjohn went 2-for-3 at New Orleans on July 19. On the mound, Weaver scattered six hits over seven innings as the Sounds defeated the visiting Isotopes 4-2. "I'll take the 'W' over it all, but if the hits contribute, that makes it better," Weaver said after winning for the second time in five decisions since joining the team May 1. "I do enjoy getting in there and having a chance to do something at the plate. That can change the complexion of the game." Coming into Friday's game, Weaver was hitting .143 (2-for-14) - the third-best average among Nashville pitchers with at least 10 at-bats. His bunt was misplayed by Albuquerque reliever Brandon Villafuerte, allowing Vinny Rottino to score from second base. "He's got an idea up there; he gives you a pretty good at-bat most of the time," Sounds Manager Frank Kremblas said. "He's a pretty good athlete. And that bunt - he did that on his own. He said (Villafuerte) has given him trouble, and he didn't want to just give up an at-bat. It surprised me." Still streaking: Rottino extended his hitting streak to 16 games, tripling into the right-center gap in the fourth inning following J.R. Hopf's two-out walk. The streak is the longest of the season by a Sounds player and is the fifth-longest by a Pacific Coast League player. The last Nashville player to hit in 16 straight games or more was Trent Durrington, who hit in 17 straight from June 7 to Aug. 16, 2005. The triple was Rottino's third of the season. Trio of double plays: The Sounds turned double plays in three consecutive innings Friday night. In the fourth inning, Andrew Beattie's groundball to second baseman Callix Crabbe started a 4-6-3 double play. An inning later, shortstop Ozzie Chavez caught Robert Andino's one-out line drive and flipped to Crabbe before pitcher Gaby Hernandez could get back to second. And in the sixth, right fielder Laynce Nix dived toward the foul line to catch John Gall's fly ball and threw back to Hopf at first base to double off ex-Sound Chris Barnwell.

Link while active, text follows: Sounds finally conquer offensive struggles at home By MAURICE PATTON Tennessean Staff Writer A Sounds offense that has had its issues at home put together just enough Friday to defeat Albuquerque for the second straight night, winning 4-2. Entering the game, the Sounds were hitting .220 in 29 games at Greer Stadium - the lowest mark of any home team in the Pacific Coast League. They finished with 10 hits and stranded eight runners. "I think everybody comes in here and doesn't hit," said Sounds Manager Frank Kremblas, whose team scored six runs combined in the two victories. "Night games here are tough. There's no background - we've asked for a higher batter's eye (in center field), but we can't get it done. It's tough to see early in the game. During the day, it's not as bad." The home batting average is in stark contrast to the team's road performance. Nashville's .297 average in 31 games away from Greer leads the PCL. "You'd like to do more with 10 hits, but you have to give their guy credit," Sounds second baseman Callix Crabbe said, referring to Albuquerque starter Gaby Hernandez. "When there were guys on base, he did a good job putting pitches in a spot where you couldn't do much with it. "But however you win is however you win." Brad Nelson's home run - his ninth of the year, which leads all current Sounds players - followed Crabbe's sixth-inning single and snapped a 1-1 tie. Nashville added a run later in the inning on a pair of walks, a base hit and a bunt single by Jeff Weaver (2-3) that was thrown away by Albuquerque reliever Brandon Villafuerte. From there, the Sounds managed just two more runners. "We didn't really string anything together," Kremblas said. The win inched Nashville (26-34) closer to the .500 mark following a disappointing series against visiting Iowa in which the Sounds won just one of four games. "We felt against Iowa we let a couple slip away that we should have won," Crabbe said. "Winning a couple in a row here means we're staying with our plan." *** "Night games here are tough. There's no background - we've asked for a higher batter's eye (in center field), but we can't get it done. It's tough to see early in the game. During the day, it's not as bad." Given that this was supposed to be year one in a spanking brand new stadium, you have to wonder if Minor League Baseball considers the four-year Player Development Contract through 2010 Milwaukee signed with Nashville iron-clad. -- Mass Haas

Link while active, text follows: Bullpen blues threaten to spoil Stars' hopes Relievers have blown 12 of 30 save chances By BRAD SHEPARD For The Huntsville Times Huntsville manager Don Money shuffled through box scores from the Stars' recent road trip, rattling off the bullpen's list of nightmarish adventures: - May 28: In Mobile, Huntsville turned over a 2-0 ninth-inning lead to Juan Sandoval, who turns it into a 4-2 loss. - June 2: In the opener of a seven-inning doubleheader at Chattanooga, normally-reliable Patrick Ryan couldn't navigate around two Alcides Escobar errors, allowing three hits in a four-run sixth that turns another two-run lead into a two-run loss. - June 4: Sandoval blew a seventh-inning lead, then Ryan got two outs in the ninth before surrendering three straight hits and the decisive run in a 5-4 loss to the Lookouts. Money cited example after example of his bullpen's late-innings unraveling - a leadoff walk here, a two-out hit there - before he threw his hands in the air. "The bullpen is not getting the job done," Money said. "If you look at our stats, we have 12 blown saves. That tells you right there what's happening. "Right now, you just don't know what you're getting out of your pen." For a team on the verge of wasting a torrid start, the bullpen gets the bulk of the blame. Back on May 14, the Stars were 29-11 and running away with the Southern League North division. They were the best hitting team in the minors, their starting pitchers owned a 3.38 earned run average, and the bullpen was at least holding its own. Since then, things have turned decisively downward - for the bullpen and the team. Through Friday night, Huntsville had lost 14 of its last 22 games, leaving the Stars tied with West Tenn with eight games remaining in the half. During that stretch, the Stars' bullpen was 1-8 with only four saves in 11 opportunities and a 5.37 ERA. By comparison, during the season's first 40 games, the group had a 7-3 record, converted 14 of 19 save opportunities and had a 4.20 ERA. "For whatever reason, it's just happening to everybody at the same time," said Ryan, the pen's ace who didn't allow an earned run until May 19 and still owns a 1.33 ERA. "We're just going through a little slump." Ryan's slump - he has allowed four earned runs in his last 8 1/3 innings - doesn't look dreadful statistically, but he has struggled in several game-deciding situations. Sandoval has given up eight earned runs in 7 2/3 innings. David Johnson has allowed four earned runs in 8 1/3 innings, actually lowering his ERA to 7.77. Robert Hinton is going through a rough patch of 11 earned runs in 12 1/3 innings. "It's not just one guy doing it, and that's the problem," Money said. "I'm just waiting for somebody to step up and say, 'I can do the job in the sixth, seventh, eighth innings.' "Right now, we're searching." The only relievers who have been effective lately are Joe Bateman - who has a 1.91 ERA this season - and newly promoted closer Omar Aguilar. That was the combination Huntsville threw at the Diamond Jaxx Thursday for 2 1/3 shutout innings in a 3-1 win. Members of the bullpen believe this stretch is just a hiccup. "You're going to go through stretches of adversity, and it's about how quickly you can get out of it," Hinton said. "We may go through 20 games and our ERA be zero. That's the way baseball is." Sandoval, one of a cycle of Stars to try to earn the closer role, didn't sound overly concerned, either. "I've been struggling a little bit, but I'm going to turn things around," he said. "It's not even on my mind. I'm positive every day, every game, every inning, every pitch." But the positivity needs to translate on the mound. Money said he wants to see his relievers more focused, more in tune with the game and throwing the right pitches at the right times. More than that, Money and pitching coach Chris Hook said they just want somebody to step up and be reliable, especially now that the first half is down to a one-week season. "I don't think lately our bullpen has been pitching under pressure effectively," Hook said. "They have to do that and do it effectively the rest of their career to get to the big leagues. "We're trying to develop major league players, and if you can't do it in Double-A, where are you going to do it?"

Link while active, text follows: West Tenn's rally deadlocks division Stars squander ninth-inning lead in 13-12 loss By MIKE EASTERLING Huntsville Times Sports Staff, mike.easterling@htimes.com The Huntsville Stars scored at least 10 runs for the 13th time this season Friday night, but it wasn't enough in a battle with West Tenn for the Southern League North first-half title. The teams combined for 31 hits and 20 walks as the Diamond Jaxx took a 13-12, 10-inning win at Joe Davis Stadium. The game took 4 hours, 20 minutes as a crowd of 4,144 saw West Tenn tie Huntsville for division supremacy with eight games left. Huntsville (37-25) and West Tenn (37-25) meet tonight at 7 in the third of a five-game series. The Stars tied it at 9-all in the bottom of the seventh on a two-run single by Michael Brantley, then took a 10-9 lead on Mat Gamel's RBI single. Huntsville's Michael Bell singled home a run in the eighth to make it 11-9, but West Tenn tied it with two in the ninth - on Adam Moore's solo homer and again when Johan Limonta doubled and scored on a wild pitch by Omar Aguilar (0-1). West Tenn scored twice in the 10th, loading the bases on a single, an error and a walk before Moore hit a two-run single. The Stars got a run back in the bottom of the 10th on an RBI single by Alcides Escobar, who took third on a stolen base and throwing error. But Gamel, the league's leading hitter, grounded out to end the game. Huntsville got a solo homer by Brantley to lead off the bottom of the first and another by Chris Errecart in the second. The Diamond Jaxx broke through against Huntsville starter Derek Miller in the third behind Brent Johnson's two-run double and an RBI double by Mike Wilson to make it 3-2. The Stars drew even in the bottom half when Escobar walked, stole second and scored on Angel Salome's hit. Huntsville led 7-3 in the fourth, sending up 10 batters and getting RBI singles from Brantley, Escobar and Gamel. The Diamond Jaxx batted around in the fifth, highlighted by Moore's three-run homer, to lead 8-7. West Tenn added an RBI single by Limonta in the seventh. Moore finished with two home runs and six RBIs. Huntsville had 15 hits but left 15 runners on base. Mumba Rivera, the fifth West Tenn pitcher, earned the win (4-1) .

Huntsville Site Game Summary: West Tenn Wins Wild Game in Extras Stars and Jaxx Share Top Spot, Again By Brett Pollock / Huntsville Stars Adam Moore drove in the winning runs in the tenth inning to cap off an improbable 13-12 comeback win for West Tenn over Huntsville Friday night in the second of a five-game set at Joe Davis Stadium. The Diamond Jaxx evened the series at a game apiece and pulled back into a first place tie with the Stars in North Division at 37-25. The Stars dropped to one win and four losses in extra innings games. Brent Johnson opened the tenth with a single and Mike Saunders dropped down a sacrifice bunt attempt that was fielded by pitcher Omar Aguilar but his throw to second base pulled shortstop Alcides Escobar off the bag, allowing Johnson to remain alive on the bases and Saunders to reach. Mark Kiger walked to load the bases before Mike Wilson flied out for the first out. Moore then smoked a one-hopper past Mat Gamel at third to deliver Johnson and Saunders to make it 13-11. Luis Valbuena then bounced into a force at second and Kiger was thrown out at the plate trying to score to end the frame. Michael Brantley singled with two outs in the bottom of the inning, advanced to second base on defensive indifference and scored on a looping single by Escobar to cut the lead to 13-12. Escobar stole second and moved to third on an errant throw by Moore but was left there when Gamel grounded out to end the game. Mumba Rivera got the last five outs to earn his fourth win and was the last of five West Tenn pitchers. Brantley finished with a season-high four hits and four runs batted in, including his third home run. Moore's leadoff home run in the ninth on the second pitch thrown by Aguilar pulled the visitors to within 11-10. Johan Limonta then scorched a double to left field and was replaced by pinch-runner Valbuena, who advanced to third base on a bunt and scored to tie the game on a wild pitch. Kevin Reynolds made a diving catch of a Chris Errecart liner to end the home ninth with runners at the corners and two outs to force the extra frame. Moore's three-run home run off Mike Jones capped off a five-run rally in the fifth that put the Jaxx on top, 8-7, and Limonta singled home a run in the seventh to push the lead to 9-7. Marwin Vega took over on the hill in the bottom of the inning and gave up a two-run single to Brantley that tied the game before Gamel singled in Brantley to put the Stars back on top, 10-9. Mike Bell's run-scoring single in the eighth gave Huntsville an 11-9 edge and set up the save situation for Aguilar, who failed for the first time in 16 chances with Brevard County and Huntsville. Stars' starter Derek Miller gave up six runs on eight hits and three walks in four frames plus three batters, while West Tenn starter Doug Fister was charged with six runs on five hits and three walks. The Diamond Jaxx' 13 runs and 16 hits were the most allowed by the Stars in both categories in a game this season. The series continues Saturday night with southpaw David Welch getting the starting nod for Huntsville against Diamond Jaxx right-hander Rich Dorman. Coverage of the game begins at 6:50 pm central time and can be heard locally on SportsRadio 730 WUMP and through the internet at www.huntsvillestars.com and www.730ump.com. Huntsville Box Score Prepare yourself for lots of crooked numbers, both good (hitting) and bad (pitching)... Huntsville Game Log If you're up to the challenge...

Nashville Pre-Game Audio Coaches Chat with Manager Frank Kremblas

Final: West Tenn (Mariners) 13, Huntsville 12, ten innings Details later on...

We'll post news itmes and articles from the web here as it becomes evident when draft picks sign. Link while active, text follows: John Delaney Taken In 25th Round Of MLB Draft By Milwaukee Brewers Written by: QuinnipiacBobcats.com HAMDEN, Conn. - Quinnipiac senior infielder John Delaney (Hanson, Mass.) was selected on the second day of the 2008 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft by the Milwaukee Brewers with the 758th overall pick in the 25th round. Delaney will report to the Brewers' rookie training camp in Phoenix, Ariz. on Sunday, June 8. From there, Delaney will either play out the season in the Arizona League with the AZL Brewers or with the Brewers' Short Season rookie team in Helena, Mont. "This was a crazy day," Delaney said. "I was projected to go between the 15th and 25th rounds and Milwaukee and Pittsburgh showed the most interest leading up to today. I saw that Pittsburgh was taking a lot of pitchers early. Once it got to the later rounds, my father and I were glued to the computer tracking all their picks. When I finally saw my name come up under Milwaukee, there was just an eruption in the house. It was an amazing feeling." Delaney's older brother, Jason, is currently playing for the Altoona Curve, the Class "AA" affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. While playing for the same organization as his brother was a possibility early on, Milwaukee looked like a good fit for Delaney. "I had an opportunity to play out there last summer," Delaney said. "I was around the Milwaukee area for some time. It's a great city and I'm pretty excited at the possibility of working my way through the system and possibly playing there some day." Delaney's selection comes after he was named to the all-Northeast Conference First Team, closing out a collegiate career that saw the infielder earn all-conference accolades for three straight seasons. He finishes his Quinnipiac career with 206 hits, good for 4th place all-time at Quinnipiac while also totaling 45 doubles, tying him with former teammate Wilson Matos "06 for 3rd place. This year, Delaney led the Bobcats in most offensive categories including home runs (9), runs batted in (40), hits (66), runs scored (49), at-bats (196), batting average (.337), doubles (15), slugging percentage (.571) and triples (2). In addition, Delaney hit .357 (20-56) with runners in scoring position while leading the team with 13 two-out RBI. Delaney also posted a team-high 20 multiple hit games, including seven with three or more. His 12 multiple RBI games also led the team. His 15 doubles this season rank 6th all-time while his 66 hits are the 5th highest in Quinnipiac history. Delaney's older brother, Jason, currently plays for the Altoona Curve, the Class "AA" affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. He also joins three former Quinnipiac baseball players currently playing minor league baseball in Tim Binkoski (Philadelphia Phillies), Randy Gress (Atlanta Braves) and Pat Egan (Baltimore Orioles). Former players Ari Kafka and Bryan Sabatella (Seattle Mariners) also played affiliated ball recently. http://www.nmnathletics.com.edgesuite.net/pics16/400/OF/OFUSLAOVDFIQWSW.20080606203753.jpg Additional John Delaney Info, including colbyjack's analysis, within his post in the Official Draft Pick Selection Thread

Brevard County Site Game Summary: Manatees Win in 12 By Tyler Stover / Brevard County Manatees (Viera, FL) The Brevard County Manatees were held scoreless for the first nine innings, but found their bats when it counted most Friday night. They scored one run in the 10th inning to tie the game, and another in the 12th to beat Fort Myers in a thriller, 2-1, ending their three-game losing streak. Jeremy Jeffress turned in another strong performance for the Manatees, pitching seven shutout innings, allowing just four hits and one walk with eight strikeouts. In his last two starts, he has allowed just one run and six hits in 14 total innings. He was matched by the Fort Myers staff, which had four pitchers combine to shut out the Manatees for the first nine innings. After nine scoreless innings, Fort Myers finally broke through in the tenth, when Yangervis Solarte's sacrifice bunt brought in Juan Portes for the first run of the game. The Miracle brought in Rob Delaney to close things out in the bottom of the tenth, but it was not meant to be. Darren Ford singled, stole second base, and later scored the tying run on Charlie Fermaint's two-out single to right field. The game remained tied at 1-1 until the 12th inning. Lorenzo Cain led off the inning with a single off Michael Allen (0-1). He quickly stole second base, and scored the winning run when Fermaint came through in the clutch once again, hammering a walk-off double to center field. Travis Wendte entered the game in the 11th inning and pitched two scoreless innings to improve to 3-0. The win moves the Manatees back over .500 at 31-30, while Fort Myers drops to 40-21. Alexandre Periard (5-4, 4.55) gets the start Saturday evening for Brevard County, facing Cole Devries (4-5, 3.50) of the Miracle. Yohannis Perez turns a double play in Brevard County's 2-1 victory over Fort Myers. (MiLB.com Photo by Dennis Greenblatt) http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/images/2008/06/06/lxqN5tf5.jpg

Final: Nashville 4, Albuquerque (Marlins) 2 Nashville Site Game Summary: Link for Jeff Weaver photo, text follows -- Sounds Take Second Straight From 'Topes, 4-2 NASHVILLE - Brad Nelson belted a go-ahead two-run homer in the sixth inning and Jeff Weaver turned in his second straight quality start to lead the Nashville Sounds to a 4-2 victory over the Albuquerque Isotopes on Friday evening at Greer Stadium. Albuquerque took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning. Robert Andino led off the game with a single, stole second, and later scored the contest's first run on a bases-loaded fielder's choice grounder off the bat of ex-Sound Andrew Beattie. The Sounds knotted the score in the fourth when a two-out walk came back to haunt Isotopes starter Gaby Hernandez. After J.R. Hopf drew the free pass, catcher Vinny Rottino extended Nashville's longest hitting streak of the year to 16 games with an RBI triple to the wall in right center. Isotopes right fielder Jai Miller put the visitors back in front, 2-1, in the next half-inning when he led off the fifth with his ninth home run of the year, a solo shot to right off Weaver. Nelson staked Nashville to a 3-2 lead in the bottom of the sixth when he slugged his ninth home run of the year, a mammoth two-run shot to right-center off Hernandez. Callix Crabbe, who opened the frame with a single, also scored on the blast. AUDIO: Brad Nelson Go-Ahead HR The rally continued later in the frame against Albuquerque reliever Brandon Villafuerte. Rottino drew a two-out walk and moved to second on an Ozzie Chavez single before Weaver dropped a bunt in front of the plate. Villafuerte's throw to first ended up in the bullpen, allowing Rottino to come home to increase the lead to 4-2. Weaver (2-3) worked his second consecutive quality start for Nashville to earn the win. He allowed two runs on six hits over a season high-tying seven innings. The right-hander helped his own cause with a 2-for-3 effort at the plate, becoming the first Sounds hurler with a multiple-hit effort since Adam Pettyjohn (2-for-3) on July 19, 2007 at New Orleans. Zach Jackson worked a scoreless eighth for the Sounds before Luis Pena closed out the victory in the ninth to earn his ninth save. Hernandez (2-5) was saddled with the loss after giving up three runs on six hits over 5 1/3 frames, striking out seven. The teams continue the series with a 6 p.m. meeting on Saturday evening. Right-hander Ben Howard (2-1, 3.82) will make his first start of the year for the Sounds to face Isotopes southpaw Chris Seddon (5-3, 3.68). The first 2,000 fans through the turnstiles will receive a free Sounds T-shirt, compliments of Copley Guitar Company, and a fireworks show will follow the game. Nashville Box Score How many times can we congratulate Brad Nelson? Did you listen to the home run call? Titanic blast, the first off the new clubhouse they built; will teams be calling Doug Melvin about Jeff Weaver? Nashville Game Log

In progress: West Tenn 11, Huntsville 11, bottom of the 9th in Huntsville Almost four hours into this one, it's as if Guillermo Mota pitched all 18 half-innings...

We'll never know, but wouldn't you like to have access to the Maddux - Simmons additions to the conversation after Villy wraps up his inning in ten pitches? Does Ned listen to them at all? They didn't suggest a second inning for Villy at all? Maybe they did not, but the possibility had to come up.

And somewhere Mets fans knowingly nod their heads at Guillermo...

Final: West Virginia 5, Kannapolis (White Sox) 2 West Virginia Site Game Summary: POWER TAKE RUBBER MATCH IN KANNAPOLIS The West Virginia Power used a three-run fifth inning on Friday night at FieldCrest Cannon Stadium to take the decisive third game in the three-game series against Kannapolis Inimidators with a 5-2 victory. Zelous Wheeler wasted no time extending his hitting streak to six games with a two-out RBI single in the first inning to give the Power their first lead of the game. Christian Marrero's first sacrifice fly of the night plated Mark Fleisher in the second inning to tie the game. Uly Snijders delivered a two-out double in the fourth inning to score Caleb Gindl, putting the Power in front again. Kannapolis tied the game a half inning later when Marrero brought in Jim Gallagher with another sacrifice fly. West Virginia scored three runs on three hits off Santo Luis in the fifth inning to take the lead for good. Lee Haydel and Jonathan Lucroy started the inning with back-to-back singles before Wheeler walked to load the bases. Gindl drove in Haydel with a sacrifice fly before Steffan Wilson capped the inning with a two-run single. Evan Anundsen (4-4) held Kannapolis to just two runs on four hits over five innings and struck out six to earn his first victory since May 9th. Mike Ramlow (6) pitched four scoreless innings of two-hit ball in relief to get the save. Anundsen and Ramlow combined to retire 15 consecutive batters. Luis (5-3) was tagged with loss after surrendering three runs on three hits over a third of an inning. The Power improved to 26-34 with the win and the Intimidators fell to 26-35 with the loss. With the victory, the Power are guaranteed to finish no worse than .500 on the road in the first half. Seven Power players hit safely at least once. Haydel turned in the only multi-hit game for the Power with a base-hit and a double. Wheeler has driven in at least one run in six of his last seven games and is 10-for-23 on his six game hitting streak. Lucroy has scored eight runs over West Virginia's last six games and has scored a run in ten out of his last 11 games. The Power will begin a two game series with the Lexington Legends at Applebee's Park on Saturday night. Left hander Chris Cody (1-0, 1.06) will get the start for the Power and the Legends will counter with right hander Jacob Leonhardt (2-4, 5.28). The first pitch is scheduled for 7:05 PM (6:05 Central). West Virginia Box Score Evan Anundsen and Mike Ramlow combined to strike out ten while walking none (Evan did hit two batters); nice summary tonight by Andy Barch above -- road warrior Power squad needs to figure it out at home next week; 94 degrees in North Carolina for this one... West Virginia Game Log

Final: Brevard County 2, Fort Myers (Twins) 1, 12 innings Brevard County Box Score Just a classic baseball game, each team scored once in the 10th inning, Charlie Fermaint doubled in Lorenzo Cain to win it; Fermaint had a huge game, on base five times -- still teases us every so often; you'll note in the game log four big Manatee double plays turned; oh yes, the pitching -- a fantastic seven scoreless for Jeremy Jeffress, four hits allowed, one walk, eight K's; Casey Baron and Travis Wendte pitched well in relief; Manatees stranded 13, Miracle just five... Brevard County Game Log

Yeah, 50% more Link Report as of that date -- we're going to increase our subscription rate by a like amount. Jeffress with a thing of beauty thus far, no run support -- but in the big picture, wow!

6/5 Baseball America's John Manuel w/Homer Brett Lawrie Discussion

Friday's tournament win -- seven scoreless innings, 111 pitches No one at Silver Cross Field in Joliet was surprised Friday to see Milwaukee Brewers first-round draft pick Jake Odorizzi of Highland throw seven scoreless innings. That his counterpart, Crystal Lake Central's Ryan Pollock, was up for a pitching duel was a little more stunning. Pollock, who entered with a 4.52 earned-run average, nearly led the Tigers to an upset victory, holding Highland scoreless until being taken out in the bottom of the seventh for Connor Buxton. With two outs, Odorizzi scored on a steal and two throwing errors to give Highland a 1-0 victory in the Class 3A semifinal. "I was more excited than intimidated," Pollock said of his reaction to going up against Odorizzi. "I haven't really faced anybody like that." Pitching on three days' rest, Odorizzi (14-0) needed 111 pitches as the Tigers consistently worked deep counts against the 32nd player selected in Thursday's draft.

You'll need to register for online voting, but here's MiLB.com's Pacific Coast League All-Star Ballot

I believe we inquired of our Brewer contacts last year, and he was not injured, simply eased into action. All the more reason to be disappointed in his results. At this point, $710,000 not well spent.

Pacific Coast League (AAA) - PCL American North Division Standings ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Team W L PCT GB HOME ROAD STREAK ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Iowa 31 27 .534 - 19-11 12-16 W1 Omaha 29 28 .509 1.5 15-15 14-13 W1 Memphis 31 30 .508 1.5 12-13 19-17 W2 Nashville 25 34 .424 6.5 13-15 12-19 W1 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Southern League (AA) - SOU North Division Standings ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Team W L PCT GB HOME ROAD STREAK ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Huntsville 37 24 .607 - 20-11 17-13 W1 West Tenn 36 25 .590 1.0 21-9 15-16 L1 Carolina 32 28 .533 4.5 14-11 18-17 L3 Chattanooga 31 30 .508 6.0 20-15 11-15 L1 Tennessee 26 35 .426 11.0 13-18 13-17 W1 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Florida State League (A+) - FSL East Division Standings ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Team W L PCT GB HOME ROAD STREAK ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Palm Beach 39 21 .650 - 24-9 15-12 W6 Brevard County 30 30 .500 9.0 19-13 11-17 L3 Vero Beach 30 30 .500 9.0 18-11 12-19 W1 Daytona 28 32 .467 11.0 13-16 15-16 W1 Jupiter 28 32 .467 11.0 15-12 13-20 L1 St. Lucie 14 46 .233 25.0 7-24 7-22 L1 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- South Atlantic League (A) - SAL Northern Division Standings ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Team W L PCT GB HOME ROAD STREAK ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lake County 35 24 .593 - 15-15 20-9 W1 Delmarva 33 25 .569 1.5 20-11 13-14 L1 Lakewood 33 26 .559 2.0 17-14 16-12 W1 Greensboro 32 28 .533 3.5 13-17 19-11 W4 Hagerstown 28 30 .483 6.5 12-17 16-13 L1 Hickory 28 33 .459 8.0 12-17 16-16 L2 West Virginia 25 34 .424 10.0 8-18 17-16 L1 Lexington 19 40 .322 16.0 9-22 10-18 L2

This link will be included in each daily report when the Nashville Sounds are scheduled to play. Normally it is updated several hours prior to gametime. Nashville Media Notes (Adobe .pdf format): www.nashvillesounds.com/pdf/notes.pdf

Follow Friday's action as it happens: Here's what you do, right click on each of the links below and choose "Open in New Window". Open the Nashville Gameday. For the others, choose "Log" or "Recap". While you're listening to your minor league game of choice (or watching/listening to the big league Crew when they are playing), simply refresh your game log browsers every so often. Nashville: http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2008_06_06_albaaa_nasaaa_1 Huntsville: http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2008_06_06_wtdaax_hunaax_1 Brevard County: http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2008_06_06_ftmafa_breafa_1 West Virginia: http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2008_06_06_wvaafx_kanafx_1