2009 S.F. Giants Minor League News

[McCovey]

I thought this year I would just have one thread covering all of the Giants minor league news instead of having a separate thread for each of the Giants minor league teams.

The giants have announced some news already about their top prospects. They are all starting the season at San Jose! :yes: I am surprised with Angel Villalona given his rather mediocre '08 season at low-A ball.


Giants' top prospects bound for S.J.

By Andrew Baggarly
San Jose Mercury News
02/20/2009

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — The Giants believe they'll be worth watching this summer, but their nearest affiliate might be a hotter ticket in April.

Club officials are planning to send all five of the Giants' top-rated prospects, and six of the top seven, to begin the season at Class A San Jose. The list includes pitchers Madison Bumgarner and Tim Alderson, catcher Buster Posey, first baseman Angel Villalona and second baseman Nick Noonan. Other members of last year's strong draft class are expected to join Posey in San Jose, including third baseman Conor Gillaspie, right fielder Roger Kieschnick and shortstop Brandon Crawford.

There will be a legitimate prospect at every position. Outfielders Darren Ford and Thomas Neal are likely to round out the lineup.

They won't be together for long, though. Alderson, who won the ERA title in the California League last year, is returning because Giants officials want to shield their elite prospects from the cold at Double-A Connecticut.

Once the weather warms up in New England, Alderson will be on his way. And others could join him.

"Years ago it was standard that a kid had to master his level, and most of the time, spend the whole year at one spot," Giants General Manager Brian Sabean said. "Now, if you think he's ahead of schedule, it's really incumbent to move him. With the Yankees, we had Bernie Williams (stalled for years) at Double-A. That's not going to happen anymore."

[McCovey]

It seems the Giants have four real top notch prospects (Bumgarner, Alderson, Posey, and Villalona). I'm definitely going to go see a bunch of San Jose Giants games.

[TkleMstr52]

I wish I could watch a bunch of SJ games!! WHere can I catch those?

[Bear]

I wish I could watch a bunch of SJ games!! WHere can I catch those?

At the stadium!

[TkleMstr52]

Damn! This is Great news btw, I am glad to see them moving these fellas quickly!!

[McCovey]

Keith Law chimes in on MadBum, Wendell Fairley, Nick Noonan, Rafael Rodriguez, Coner Gillaspie and a few others.


Giants lefty Bumgarner still a top-10 prospect

Friday, March 27, 2009

Giants left-hander Madison Bumgarner threw three innings in his first minor-league appearance of the spring Thursday, shutting down Oakland's AA club for two innings before getting squeezed on a potential strike three and then giving up a two-run double that ended his day. Bumgarner sat at 88-91 mph but reached back for 92-93 when he needed it, working in cruise control for most of his outing. His changeup was ahead of his slider; he turned the changeup over very well and showed an easy feel for it, but had trouble staying on top of his slider, resulting in a flatter pitch with a very early break. His fastball had good life on it and some sink that probably comes from his low three-quarter slot.

Bumgarner's delivery takes some knocks from scouts, and while it's a little different, I don't see why it would earn any strongly negative reviews. He takes a long stride and generates power with his lower half. His arm action is definitely long in the back, much longer than previously reported, but it's pretty easy and loose and he has no problem adding to and subtracting from his fastball when he needs to do so. His arm slot is low for a starter, but the presence of an above-average and future plus changeup mitigates the concern with low-slot pitchers, which is that they'll have major platoon splits down the road. He has a workhorse build with a strong lower half. This was my first live look at him since his one inning in the AFLAC game in 2006, and he's a lot more advanced now with a stronger body and a very good feel for pitching. There's a reason Baseball America, Baseball Prospectus, and I all put him among the top 10 prospects in the game.

• I also watched the BP sessions of both of San Francisco's A-ball clubs. The Giants gave Dominican outfielder Rafael Rodriguez over $2 million last August, the second-highest bonus awarded on the international market last year. He won't turn 17 until July based on his listed birth date, and as you might imagine of a 16-year-old from the Dominican Republic, he's quite raw; he has some bat speed and the ball comes off the bat pretty well, but he's all on his front foot and just hacks at the ball rather than setting, gathering, and driving through it. When he got a ball up, he did a better job of staying back and squaring up rather than lunging just to make contact. Of course, he'd be in his junior or even sophomore year of high school if he was U.S.-born, and lunging in BP doesn't mean that he'll lunge in games at pitches he probably should let pass.

• Wendell Fairley struggled badly at the start of his first full pro season last year, but played better at the end and should go to a full-season league now that he's 21 (when he'd even be old for the Sally League). The good news is that the tool set that got him drafted in the first round is intact: He has great bat speed with quick hands and strong wrists, and is still a great athlete with some room to add a little more muscle up top.

• Quick hits: Second baseman Nick Noonan doesn't walk and he bars his arm horribly, as bad as I've seen any pro hitter do in a while. I'm not optimistic about him given those two facts. … Outfielder Francisco Peguero has good hands and gets his arms extended well to drive the ball. He hasn't hit much in pro ball, so I don't want to overrate the look, but he's worth keeping an eye on … Conor Gillaspie has great balance at the plate and a short contact-oriented swing with excellent bat speed. It looks like the Giants have worked with him on trying to drive the ball to right more often. He was a steal in the comp round, part of what I rated the best day-one draft of any team last year.

[Bear]

Now here is the question of the day. Would you trade Madison Bumgarner for Stephen Strasburg straight up? I would not but I am interested in what you guys think.:confused:

[McCovey]

Now here is the question of the day. Would you trade Madison Bumgarner for Stephen Strasburg straight up? I would not but I am interested in what you guys think.:confused:
No way. MadBum has shown he can succeed in professional baseball plus he's younger than Strasburg. All this talk about Strasburg going straight to the majors after the draft is foolishness. I respect Keith Law and he's usually a voice of reason but to suggest Strasburg can jump straight to the majors from college ball is crazy. Strasburg pitches once a week for SDSU. Wouldn't Strasburg's major league team want him to build up arm strength so he can handle the pitching load of a major league pitcher? Shoot, even Mark Prior, the last "greatest college pitcher ever" pitcher about 2/3 of a season in the minors.

[TkleMstr52]

I wouldnt trade MB for anyone, he is so young and so good already

[TkleMstr52]

Where will the youngsters be to start the season again?

[TkleMstr52]

I take it back, to trade him it would take an offer that knocked me off my feet.

[McCovey]

Where will the youngsters be to start the season again?
The Big Four will start the season at single-A San Jose.

[Bear]

Where will the youngsters be to start the season again?

I think San Jose.

[TkleMstr52]

Anyone able to some of those games? Or gonna try anyway?

[McCovey]

Anyone able to some of those games? Or gonna try anyway?
I will be attending as many San Jose Giants games as I can this season. I want to see Tim Alderson before he get's promoted to double-A. I'll take some photos and try to take video and post it here.

[TkleMstr52]

How long are they supposed to be in SJ? Or is it based on production?

[McCovey]

How long are they supposed to be in SJ? Or is it based on production?
Alderson will be sent to double-A once the weather gets better in Connecticut. The other three will be promoted based on merit. Though I expect Angel Villalona to be at San Jose all season. Actually I'm surprised he was promoted from Augusta. He did just ok at Augusta last season.

[TkleMstr52]

I see, Villalona was probably placed there due to the improvement from start to finish.

[McCovey]

I see, Villalona was probably placed there due to the improvement from start to finish.
He did play well in August and September but I thought a few more games (say 4-6 weeks) at Augusta would have done him so good.

[TkleMstr52]

We shall see how this strategy works, Maybe he is on the fast track for his power. One step ahead of where he should be and see how he develops.

[McCovey]

From the San Jose Giants website.


San Jose Giants Announce 2009 Roster

Six Former First Round Draft Picks Headline a Talented San Jose Roster

4/5/2009

SAN JOSE, CA – Highlighted by six former first round draft picks and most of the top prospects in the San Francisco organization, the San Jose Giants unveiled their opening day roster in anticipation for the 2009 season. The club will be led offensively by 2008 first round draft selection Buster Posey while the reigning San Francisco Giants Minor League Pitcher of the Year Madison Bumgarner and last season’s California League ERA champion Tim Alderson lead a deep and talented pitching staff.

“If you’re a Giants fan, or just a fan of baseball, you’re going to be thrilled about what you see in San Jose this season,” said Manager Andy Skeels. “We have players that are going to be an integral part of the success in San Francisco in the near future.”

Posey returns to San Jose after joining the Giants last September during the playoffs. The catcher, who was selected fifth overall in last year’s draft, won every major college Player of the Year award in 2008 at Florida State University after leading the country in batting average (.463), RBI’s (93), slugging percentage (.879) and on-base percentage (.566). He also tallied 26 home runs in just 68 games played. Posey has limited professional experience, having played in only 15 career games entering 2009, but the backstop shined in major league spring training camp last month as a non-roster invitee.

Bumgarner will be looking to build on an outstanding 2008 campaign that saw the 19-year old left-hander win South Atlantic League Pitcher of the Year as a member of the Augusta GreenJackets. Bumgarner compiled a 15-3 record to go with a remarkable 1.46 ERA while amassing 164 strikeouts in 141 2/3 innings. The southpaw was also named MiLB.com’s Most Spectacular Pitcher after finishing with the lowest earned run average among starting pitchers in Minor League Baseball.

Alderson returns for his second season in San Jose after a tremendous 2008 All-Star campaign in the California League. The 20-year old right-hander led the league with a 2.79 ERA in addition to posting a 13-4 record while sharing the San Jose Giants Pitcher of the Year award. Alderson also finished tied for third in the league in victories and fourth in strikeouts. The San Francisco Giants chose both Bumgarner and Alderson in the first round of the 2007 draft.

Top prospects and former first round picks Nick Noonan and Conor Gillaspie will also play key roles on this year’s San Jose squad. Noonan, a 19-year old second baseman, was arguably Augusta’s most consistent hitter last season en route to the league championship. A 2007 supplemental first round pick, Noonan batted .279 with the GreenJackets in addition to collecting nine home runs, 68 RBI’s and 29 stolen bases.

Gillaspie, a supplemental first round pick in last year’s draft, enjoyed a brief stint with the San Francisco Giants last September. The third baseman hit .268 in 18 games with the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes before receiving a promotion to San Francisco where he appeared in eight games. Gillaspie became the first player from the 2008 draft to reach the major leagues while also becoming the quickest San Francisco Giants draft choice to appear in a big league game (96 days after the draft). Gillaspie was an All-American at Wichita State University in 2008 where he posted a .419 batting average.

Elite prospect Angel Villalona will also begin the 2009 season in San Jose after leading Augusta in home runs last year as the youngest player in the South Atlantic League. The 18-year old blasted 17 homers while also contributing 29 doubles and 64 RBI’s. Villalona is regarded as one of the top power hitting prospects in the San Francisco organization.

According to Baseball America, the top five prospects in the San Francisco farm system and six out of the top seven (#1 Bumgarner, #2 Posey, #3 Villalona, #4 Alderson, #5 Noonan, #7 Gillaspie) are on San Jose’s opening day roster.

Eight players on the roster have previously called Municipal Stadium home. Returning from the 2008 San Jose Giants, in addition to Posey and Alderson, are pitchers Clayton Tanner, Daniel Turpen, Wilmin Rodriguez and Craig Whitaker and outfielder Darren Ford. Pitcher Adam Cowart is also back in the California League after having played in San Jose during the 2007 playoffs.

Tanner will again pitch in the starting rotation after logging a 10-8 record and the sixth-lowest ERA in the California League (3.69) last season. Turpen and Rodriguez, a pair of relief pitchers, split 2008 between San Jose and Augusta while Whitaker, a former first round pick, will again work out of the bullpen. Ford begins his second season in the San Francisco organization after he was acquired via trade from the Milwaukee Brewers last July. The center fielder has stolen over 60 bases in each of his first three full professional seasons. Cowart excelled for the Giants during the 2007 post-season winning the decisive fifth game of the Championship Series on the mound before spending all of last year with Double-A Connecticut.

Other notable newcomers include pitchers Scott Barnes and Edwin Quirarte, shortstop Brandon Crawford and outfielder Roger Kieschnick. Barnes, rated #9 on Baseball America’s list of top San Francisco Giants prospects, formed a dominant 1-2 punch alongside Bumgarner in Augusta’s starting rotation late last season. The left-hander fashioned a 1.38 ERA with 41 strikeouts in 32 2/3 innings over six starts after joining the GreenJackets.

Quirarte saved 14 games to go with a 2.12 ERA as Salem-Keizer’s closer last year and should play a key role out of San Jose’s bullpen. Crawford, a fourth round pick last season, hails from nearby Pleasanton and is considered one of the top shortstop prospects in the farm system. Kieschnick will be making his professional baseball debut in the San Francisco Giants farm system this season. A third round pick in 2008, Kieschnick played for the Waikiki BeachBoys last season and led the Hawaii Winter League in home runs.

Other newcomers to the San Jose Giants in 2009 include pitchers T.J. Brewer, Craig Clark, Rafael Cova, Mitch Lively, David Mixon and Oliver Odle, catchers Michael Ambort and Aaron Lowenstein, infielders Vladimir Frias and Skyler Stromsmoe and outfielders Shane Jordan and Thomas Neal.

The 25 active player roster will be determined on April 9th from this preliminary roster.

Andy Skeels joins the San Jose Giants as manager this season. Last year, Skeels directed Augusta to the best record among full-season teams and a South Atlantic League championship. The GreenJackets posted an outstanding 88-50 mark with Skeels at the helm to earn MiLB.com’s Team of the Year award. Skeels is set to begin his fourth season in the San Francisco Giants organization and second year as a manager.

Hitting coach Gary Davenport, pitching coach Jerry Cram, trainer Yukiya Oba and strength and conditioning coach Carl Kochan round out the San Jose staff.

Fans can meet the 2009 players and coaches at the 2nd annual San Jose Giants FanFest on Monday, April 6th at Municipal Stadium. Gates open at 5:30 PM while Skeels and many of his players and coaches will be available to sign autographs, pose for pictures, and answer questions from fans as part of a “Meet and Greet” at 6:00 PM on the Martinelli’s VIP Deck. Fans will then have the opportunity to watch the team practice beginning at 7:00 PM, enjoy their first bite of Turkey Mike’s BBQ, purchase new merchandise at the Clubhouse Store, and play in the Family Fun Zone. Admission and parking are free. Those interested in becoming new season ticket holders are invited to come down to Municipal Stadium during FanFest to select their seat locations.

The San Jose Giants open their 2009 season on Thursday, April 9th at Municipal Stadium vs. the Stockton Ports. The Opening Night Extravaganza will include a post-game fireworks display presented by State Farm, 2009 magnet schedule giveaway, the return of Gigante and much more. Box Seats and Upper Reserved are already SOLD OUT for Opening Night but plenty of General Admission tickets are still available. For more information on tickets for the 2009 season please call (408) 297-1435 or visit www.sjgiants.com.

[McCovey]

Also, the San Jose Giants will broadcast all 140 games through their website!

http://www.sjgiants.com/subcontent.aspx?SecID=159

[TkleMstr52]

Also, the San Jose Giants will broadcast all 140 games through their website!

http://www.sjgiants.com/subcontent.aspx?SecID=159

I hate dial up!!!!!:nono: :pound:

[McCovey]

San Jose wins their first game with Alderson pitching well and AnVil hitting a home run!


San Jose Uses Two Home Runs, Stellar Pitching To Handle Ports

04/09/2009

Angel Villalona and Thomas Neal homered and Tim Alderson tossed four scoreless innings to lead the San Jose Giants to a season-opening 5-1 victory over the Stockton Ports on Thursday night at Municipal Stadium. Playing under a steady rain most of the evening, the Giants collected nine hits and used stellar pitching to take a shutout into the ninth inning.

Neal scored the first run of the contest when he connected for an opposite field solo home run to lead off the bottom of the third inning. The Giants added another run in the frame when Brandon Crawford was hit by a pitch with one out before Nick Noonan clubbed an RBI triple into the right field corner.

Villalona extended the lead in the bottom of the sixth inning when he crushed the first pitch of his at-bat well over the fence in left field for a solo homer. The blast gave San Jose a 3-0 advantage.

In the bottom of the seventh, the Giants capitalized on back-to-back walks to begin the inning to score two more runs. After consecutive free passes to Darren Ford and Crawford, Noonan reached on a bunt single to load the bases. Buster Posey followed by grounding into a fielder’s choice plating Ford with the fourth run of the night before Conor Gillaspie lined an RBI single into left field for a 5-0 lead.

Alderson started on the mound for San Jose and scattered five hits with just one walk and two strikeouts. The right-hander, who led the California League in ERA last season (2.79), was removed from the game after reaching his pitch count limit.

Adam Cowart (1-0) earned the victory after working two scoreless innings and striking out two. Cowart began his outing in the top of the fifth and promptly retired six consecutive hitters before running into trouble in the top of the seventh. Matt Spencer led off the inning by reaching on an error before back-to-back singles loaded the bases with none out. David Mixon then was summoned from the bullpen and the right-hander needed just five pitchers to get out of the inning with no runs coming home.

Mixon quickly dispatched of Michael Richard on a three-pitch strikeout before Mike Affronti grounded into an inning-ending 6-4-3 double play.

Mixon worked a scoreless top of the eighth inning pitching through a single, a walk and an error to preserve the shutout. In the ninth, Wilmin Rodriguez surrendered a one-out RBI single to Affronti, but set down the next two hitters to seal the victory.

Noonan (2-for-5, 3B, RBI) and Villalona (2-for-4, HR, RBI) both produced multiple-hit games at the plate for the Giants. Stockton out-hit San Jose by a 10-9 margin, but stranded 12 runners on base and finished just 3-for-17 with runners in scoring position.

Ports starting pitcher Tyson Ross (0-1) suffered the loss after yielding two runs (both earned) on three hits in four innings.

Notes: Villalona, who is only 18 years old, led Augusta in home runs last season (17) … Stockton had baserunners in all four innings while facing Alderson, but failed to score in each frame … Cowart (2 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 SO), Mixon (2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 SO) and Rodriguez (1 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 0 SO) each worked out of the Giants bullpen … Ford (0-for-4) and Posey (0-for-5, RBI) were the only San Jose starters without a hit … The announced attendance was 3,115 … The game began with a 32-minute rain delay.

On Deck: The Giants and Ports continue this four-game series on Friday evening with first pitch at Municipal Stadium scheduled for 7:00 PM. It’s a KFOX Family Friday at the ballpark with special ticket offers available at www.kfox.com (http://www.kfox.com). Madison Bumgarner (0-0, 0.00 ERA) is slated to make the start on the mound for San Jose while Stockton is expected to counter with Carlos Hernandez (0-0, 0.00 ERA). Tickets are available and can be purchased by calling (408)297-1435 or by visiting www.sjgiants.com (http://www.sjgiants.com).



Post 2,200!

[Bear]

It is being said that the San Jose Giants might be the most exciting team in the Bay Area today! There is a lot of buzz about this young minor league team.:eek:

[McCovey]

A good portion of the San Francisco Giants' top prospects are at San Jose for the time being.

[McCovey]

This season Comcast is going to broadcast 14 San Jose Giants games live. Does anyone have Comcast cable TV?

http://www.sjgiants.com/ArDisplay.aspx?ID=1763&SecID=27

[Bear]

This season Comcast is going to broadcast 14 San Jose Giants games live. Does anyone have Comcast cable TV?

http://www.sjgiants.com/ArDisplay.aspx?ID=1763&SecID=27

Yes I do!:rolleyes:

[McCovey]

Yes I do!:rolleyes:
Let us how how good the broadcasts are.

[TkleMstr52]

Are they gonna be on CSN or just comcast cable? I have Comcast Sportsnet Bay Area!!

[McCovey]

Are they gonna be on CSN or just comcast cable? I have Comcast Sportsnet Bay Area!!
I have no idea. I have AT & T U-Verse cable TV. Check out the Comcast link I posted.

[TkleMstr52]

Glad to hear Anvil, Noonan and T2 are off to good starts!!!

[McCovey]

Here are some photos of San Jose Municipal Stadium. I think it's a nice little ballpark. :awesomework.gif

http://www.littleballparks.com/Stadium/2003/San_Jose/San_Jose.htm

[TkleMstr52]

Damn, no good for me

[McCovey]

Damn, no good for me
:confused:

[TkleMstr52]

Oh, I mean I wont be able to watch the SJ games, haha, my bad

[McCovey]

Oh, I mean I wont be able to watch the SJ games, haha, my bad
Is it because your cable package doesn't offer it and would have to pay extra for for it?

[TkleMstr52]

I have Directv and its got a comcast channel but its not the same as they are showing the games.

[McCovey]

The SJ Giants started the season 4-0 with four shutouts! :eek: They finally got beat 4-3 by Bakersfield in the 5th game. So far the Giants have out scored their opponents 27-4! Perhaps we should just move the San Jose Giants to San Francisco! :D

[McCovey]

I'm currently listening to the SJ Giants game over the Internet! Very cool...:)

[McCovey]

The Giants lose to Bakerfield 10-6. :( Posey did have 3 hits though.

[TkleMstr52]

2 straight losses? Who was pitching?

[McCovey]

Here is the recap of the 10-6 loss.

http://www.sjgiants.com/ArDisplay.aspx?ID=1783&SecID=27

Posey did have three hits though and Villalona went 2 for 4. Both Posey and Villalona are off to good starts. However, in six games Villalona has yet to draw a walk.

[McCovey]

An article from the SF Chronicle...


San Jose Giants Loaded With Top San Francisco Prospects

By Scott Ostler
4/13/2009

A sign that something special is happening here: Behind the grandstands of 67-year-old Municipal Stadium in San Jose is a long row of gleaming new porta-potties. They've been added to handle the overflow (so to speak) crowds coming to watch the team that should run away with the NL West ... in 2011.

The Class A (California League) Giants are loaded with legit big-league prospects: six first-round draft picks, plus teenager Angel Villalona.

Several of these players will start moving up the minor-league food chain soon. But right now, San Jose is ground zero for the Giants' future.

Manager Andy Skeels has been entrusted with what must be one of the great single A teams in history. You might say his ballclub has mad skeels. After Sunday's 10-0 win over the visiting Stockton Ports, the Giants are 4-0.

"I've been told I'm allowed four losses this year," said Skeels, who knocked around the minors for 12 years as a catcher, then became a teacher. This class is loaded.

"In my 12 years as a manager and coach, I've never seen anything like this," Skeels said.

His charges include five fellows on any fan's must-see list: Villalona, the 18-year-old Giants' power-source-of-the-future; Buster Posey, the Giants' catcher for the next decade; oversized power pitchers Madison Bumgarner and Tim Alderson; and infielder Conor Gillaspie, whom Skeels likens to Wade Boggs.

Posey, potentially the gem of the group, doesn't show much Sunday afternoon ... until 20 minutes into the game. Batting cleanup, he comes to the plate in the first inning with a runner on base. He drills an 0-2 pitch over the left-field fence on a smoking line.

One of Posey's main challenges is learning to call a game. At Florida State, his coach, like most college coaches, called every pitch. Not that Posey was on auto-pilot.

"I tried to think along with the coach," he said. "I think I've got a good idea."

One of Skeels' first moves was to turn over the pitch-calling to Posey because, as the manager says, "What you want is a leader."

Skeels, who managed last season at Class A Augusta, isn't here to babysit. He was a philosophy and English major at Arkansas, and he believes in thinking and teaching. In batting practice, every swing is situational. "Batting practice is not a driving range," he said.

He stands by the cage and calls out to hitters. "Now five to left" ... "Hit-and-run" ... Now gap-to-gap."

When Villalona takes BP and pops up a pitch, Skeels tells him, "Atras, alante." He's telling Villalona to move his hips forward instead of twisting them away from the ball.

Skeels can't say enough good stuff about Villalona, who played for Skeels last year at Augusta. The manager loves the way the Cal League's youngest player relishes pressure. "He was the one player on the team who got better every month." Skeels said. "He has the potential to be a monster."

Skeels says you can close your eyes in BP and know when Villalona is batting. Villalona's most valuable attribute might be his enthusiasm.

"He loves playing the game," Skeels said. "You might think that would be a given, but it's not. This kid enjoys playing the game of baseball."

Ah, but he's still a kid. Villalona, 5-for-11 the first three games, with a homer, comes to bat Sunday in the first, with one out and runners on first and second. He lofts an easy pop to the first baseman and jogs down the line.

Skeels immediately jerks Villalona from the game.

"I needed to let him know that's not part of how we play baseball here," Skeels said.

The Giants are so deep that Sunday's shutout doesn't involve Bumgarner or Alderson, the team's towering twosome - Bumgarner (age 19) is 6-4 and 215; Alderson (20) is 6-6 and 217.

This is the greatest show in the bushes. Ticket sales are booming. New seats (not counting the porta-potties) have been added to the yard this year, with the help of $600,000 in community-redevelopment funds. (I can hear A's owner Lew Wolff chirping, "Hey, save some of that for us!").

Whenever Bum (as Bumgarner's teammates call him) is on the bump, ticket sales jump. In his first start, he went six shutout innings.

"In high school, I didn't learn how to pitch," said Bumgarner, who was 15-3 at Augusta last year. "I'm starting to learn now. I'm getting a lot smarter."

There's a lot of learning going on here at the ancient ballpark in south San Jose, at the finishing school for kids who are just starting.

Know your San Jose Giants

Parentage: Affiliated with the S.F. Giants since 1988. The Giants recently purchased 25 percent of team ownership.

Home: Municipal Stadium (588 East Alma Ave.), built in 1942, capacity 5,208.

Ticket and schedule info: sjgiants.com, or (408) 297-1435

Radio and TV: All 140 games on radio on team's Web site, sjgiants.com. Comcast Hometown (Channel 104 in most Northern California regions) will televise 14 games live. Next TV game: 7 p.m. Thursday, at Stockton.

[TkleMstr52]

:beerbang:

[McCovey]

Tim Alderson pitches tonight! :beerbang:

[TkleMstr52]

He didnt do well!!

[McCovey]

The San Jose Giants are at Stockton tonight and are already up 2-0 in the second inning. Bumgarner is pitching. Buster Posey is on fire! He already had a hit and is hitting .481. I wonder how soon he'll be sent to AA Connecticut?

[McCovey]

The Giants still lead Stockon 2-1. Bumgarner pitched 5 innings and allowed one unearned run. He still has a 0.00 ERA on the season. :D

[TkleMstr52]

Nice, you changed your tune on Anvil belonging with the others yet?

[McCovey]

Nice, you changed your tune on Anvil belonging with the others yet?
Yes. I'm pleasantly surprised by his rapid development. He has adjusted well to the Californai League so far. I look forward to seeing him play in person very soon.

[TkleMstr52]

I figured as he improved last year he would be able to handle A+ as well.

[McCovey]

I figured as he improved last year he would be able to handle A+ as well.
He still doesn't draw walks (he has zero so far in eight games). That will hurt him the higher he goes up the minor leagues. :(

[TkleMstr52]

I am starting to agree, Pablo is another that needs patience, his struggles can be attributed to this. One RBI thus far, pathetic.

[McCovey]

I am starting to agree, Pablo is another that needs patience, his struggles can be attributed to this. One RBI thus far, pathetic.
Teams today had tons of video and statistical information on all hitters now. Teams know that Sandoval swings at more pitches outside the strike zone than any other hitter (something like 54% in '08). Teams then pitch Sandoval accordingly. The thing is that "patience" is someting that is mostly innate. You either have it as a young player or you don't. And if you don't you'll probably never get it later on.

[TkleMstr52]

He has good eyes when he decides to use them

[McCovey]

Looks like the Bear is right about Posey. He may be up in San Francisco sooner than we think. He went 3 for 5 today in an 8-7 loss to Stockton. Posey's hitting .471 so far. He'll probably be promoted to AA Connecticut by June at this pace.

[TkleMstr52]

Lets go June!! Haha

[TkleMstr52]

I really want to see this guy!! You can watch them online?

[McCovey]

I really want to see this guy!! You can watch them online?

I'm not sure. I plan to go see the SJ Giants play soon and take photos and maybe some video.

[TkleMstr52]

That would be great if you got video up here!!

[McCovey]

Hey both Barry Zito and Madison Bumgarner are pitching today with 12:45 pm game starts. I wonder who will pitch the better game? :D

[Bear]

Can't call that one as they both pitched well.:beerbang:

[McCovey]

Bumgarner is now 3-0 with a 0.56 ERA! :eek:

[TkleMstr52]

When does he go to AA? Moving on nicely!!

[McCovey]

When does he go to AA? Moving on nicely!!
That depends on Giants management. I'm sure Brian Sabean had say on this for sure. MadBum did spent the entire season at low-A ball last season and he was quite dominant the entire season. So maybe the Giants are in no rush to promote him.

[Bear]

That depends on Giants management. I'm sure Brian Sabean had say on this for sure. MadBum did spent the entire season at low-A ball last season and he was quite dominant the entire season. So maybe the Giants are in no rush to promote him.

I see him in SF no later than Opening Day 2010 in the rotation!:cool:

[McCovey]

I see him in SF no later than Opening Day 2010 in the rotation!:cool:
Works for me. :beerbang:

[TkleMstr52]

Hope thats right!

[McCovey]

Hey TM52,

Can you look at the scouting report for Brandon Crawford in the Baseball America Prospect Handbook? He's a shortstop and off to a great start at San Jose.

[McCovey]

Here is some video of Tim Alderson pitching. Enjoy.

http://projectprospect.com/article/2009/04/16/scouting-report-main-vs-alderson

[McCovey]

Here are the player stats for the San Jose Giants.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?t=t_ibp&cid=476

Buster Posey and Brandon Crawford are having great seasons so far.

[TkleMstr52]

He is out of the top 30 and is thier second rated ss. That is disappointing!!

[McCovey]

He is out of the top 30 and is thier second rated ss. That is disappointing!!
Really? Crawford is having a great April so far. He leads the SJ Giants in BA, OBP, slugging, runs, hits, total bases, OPS, and is second in RBI.

[SF Kid]

Who is Crawford? :o

[McCovey]

Who is Crawford? :o
Brandon Crawford is the San Jose Giants' starting shortstop. He's 22 years old and played college ball at UCLA. He was drafted by the Giants in the 4th round of the 2008 draft. He's off to a great start this season at San Jose. I haven't really read about him yet. He's 6'2" and 200 lbs So I'm wondering if third base may be in his future?

[Bear]

Brandon Crawford is the San Jose Giants' starting shortstop. He's 22 years old and played college ball at UCLA. He was drafted by the Giants in the 4th round of the 2008 draft. He's off to a great start this season at San Jose. I haven't really read about him yet. He's 6'2" and 200 lbs So I'm wondering if third base may be in his future?

Are you saying this because of his size? If so ask Cal Ripkin about that.:nono:

[SF Kid]

We could use a stud SS. Maybe he is the guy. I'm not bothered by his size.

[TkleMstr52]

He was projected to go in the first round until he started to struggle in his final season at UCLA. They drafted 3 or 4 guys last year that at some point were expected first rounders. Posey, Gillaspie, Crawford and I believe Kieschnick as well, thats a good draft!!

[McCovey]

He was projected to go in the first round until he started to struggle in his final season at UCLA. They drafted 3 or 4 guys last year that at some point were expected first rounders. Posey, Gillaspie, Crawford and I believe Kieschnick as well, thats a good draft!!
I'm still not sure about Gillaspie. He's projected to be another Bill Mueller. That's not that high of a projection. And he's hitting has only been fair so far at San Jose. But he's still young so we'll have to see how he develops.

[TkleMstr52]

I have to agree on that point but he could be a good role player and all teams can use those. Agree??

[McCovey]

I have to agree on that point but he could be a good role player and all teams can use those. Agree??
Sure. Thae giants are good at collecting role players. :pound:

[McCovey]

Wendell Fairly is off to an awful start at Augusta. :(

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?n=Wendell%20Fairley&pos=CF&sid=t478&t=p_pbp&pid=518667

[Bear]

Wendell Fairly is off to an awful start at Augusta. :(

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?n=Wendell%20Fairley&pos=CF&sid=t478&t=p_pbp&pid=518667

At 21 years old I am not sure I am ready to write him off just yet. If this was two years from now, maybe!:nono:

[McCovey]

At 21 years old I am not sure I am ready to write him off just yet. If this was two years from now, maybe!:nono:
Not necessarily write off just yet. But, he's 21 years old and still in low-A ball. He needs to get a move on with development soon. I'm not sure what's going on with him. He didn't play well last year either but the Giants like his athleticism so he'll get his chances.

[TkleMstr52]

You know, Ford is playing pretty well. Acquired in the Durham trade, Darren Ford that is.

[TkleMstr52]

Ill say two years from now will tell Fairleys story.

[McCovey]

Tim Alderson and the baby Giants had a good game today defeating Modesto.

http://www.sjgiants.com/ArDisplay.aspx?ID=1842&SecID=27

What's gotten into Brandon Crawford. He had another two hits today and absolutely pounding the ball. .367/.452/.633 with 6 HR, 17 RBI, 18 runs in 22 games. I wonder if he'll play the majority of the season at San Jose or will he be promoted if he continues to pound the ball? :idunno:

[McCovey]

Here a Keith Law scouting report on the San Jose giants. He was NOT impressed with Brandon Crawford. :(


Pair with Modesto impresses

By Keith Law, ESPNMay 4, 2009

I went to San Jose, Calif., to see the most prospect-laden team in the minor leagues this year, the Giants' Cal League affiliate, only to be more impressed by two players on visiting Modesto, which is in the Rockies' system.

Modesto right-hander Bruce Billings shut down one of the minors' best lineups Saturday night by throwing mostly fastballs. San Jose's hitters -- including Buster Posey, Conor Gillaspie, Angel Villalona and the streaking Brandon Crawford -- could not pick the ball up out of his hand, and only Villalona hit anything very hard for the Giants' lone hit off Billings in seven innings.

Billings' fastball was 90-93 mph and had just a little bit of sinking life, but San Jose's hitters couldn't square it up, and several of their hitters, including Crawford and Darren Ford, were flat-out late on it. Billings' arm action is not pretty -- it's long and kind of uncoordinated -- and he has no second pitch that would even grade out at 45, but the solid-average fastball and hitters' inability to square it up make him a prospect, at least as a reliever. He doesn't currently throw a changeup, but he gets on top of the ball, and I've seen plenty of pitchers who have their pitching hands up early behind their bodies and couldn't throw breaking balls still throw adequate changeups.

• Modesto shortstop Hector Gomez homered twice, and both were rockets. Gomez missed all of 2008 with a pair of injuries, including Tommy John surgery, but his arm has clearly recovered and is at least a 60 at short. He has great bat speed, accelerating his wrists late and swinging hard every time; he's on his front foot early but keeps some of his weight back, and then swings with everything he's got. He's a plus runner and got down the line in four seconds flat on a bunt for a hit, but in his last at-bat showed little regard for whether or not each pitch was near the strike zone. He's an exciting talent and has the tools to be an impact player in the majors; he belongs in the Futures Game this year on the World Team.

• Posey was 0-for-4 but did have some good at-bats. He's got about as good a setup and swing as you're going to find: hands in good position, short to the ball, good extension, keeps his weight back and transfers it with the swing with great hip rotation. I imagine he'll be in Class AA or even Triple-A by the second half of the season, putting him in line for an August or September callup.

• I was asked in chat last week if I thought Crawford's hot start was for real, but ran out of time before I could answer. With what I saw Saturday, I'd say no; he has some bat speed, but his approach is rough; he was all over pitches in the zone, but Billings got him to expand even on 0-1, with Crawford chasing fastballs down, down and away, and up and away.

• Villalona smoked a 90 mph fastball from Billings to left for a single, and later showed zero effort whatsoever on a hard ground ball two feet to his right. He's going to make someone in player development go gray prematurely.

• Former first-round pick Craig Whitaker threw three-plus innings of effective relief for the Giants after starter Oliver Odle was knocked out. He tops out at 88 from a near-sidearm angle, but he was very tough on Modesto's right-handed hitters and actually threw strikes, something he had trouble doing before San Francisco dropped his arm slot. There's some hope for him as a specialist in the back of a major league bullpen.

[TkleMstr52]

Law is a schmuck, one off game doesnt mean shit. Posey was damn near .400 and is now in the low threes, maybe we should worry about that too. Crawford will be a solid player, in the minors at least and hopefully the majors some day. It must be nice to do nothing but go to sporting events and pretend like that makes you an expert. Law should watch some film on the guy and see if his flaws are constant or it was just this game.

[McCovey]

Law is a schmuck, one off game doesnt mean shit. Posey was damn near .400 and is now in the low threes, maybe we should worry about that too. Crawford will be a solid player, in the minors at least and hopefully the majors some day. It must be nice to do nothing but go to sporting events and pretend like that makes you an expert. Law should watch some film on the guy and see if his flaws are constant or it was just this game.
Crawford does have 29 K's in 23 games (with just 10 BB's). That's pretty high IMO. I'm curious to see how Crawford develops.

[McCovey]

While the S.F. Giants offense continues to struggle, Jesus Guzman is pounding the ball at AAA! Thirteen RBI in just five games?! Are you fricking kidding me?


Fresno's Guzman Named PCL Hitter Of The Week

05/04/2009
Fresno Grizzlies

FRESNO, CA - Fresno Grizzlies first-baseman Jesus Guzman has been named the Pacific Coast League's Hitter of the Week for the week ending May 3rd, the League announced on Monday. Guzman, in his first season in the Giants organization, is the first Grizzly to win the honor since Scott McClain in July of 2007. Due to a rainout, and a scheduled off-day, Guzman and the Grizzlies played just five games from Monday, April 27th to Sunday, May 3rd, but that didn't stop the Venezuelan native from posting a staggering statistical week. In five contests against the Reno Aces and Tacoma Rainiers, Guzman went 8-for-19 (.421) with four home runs, 13 RBI, two doubles, and five runs scored, and most importantly helped lead Fresno to four wins.

The 24-year old Venezuelan native is coming off a strong winter where he was named Venezuelan Winter League MVP and broke a 35-year old VWL record with 67 RBI. He spent the 2008 with the Oakland Athletics organization and signed as a Minor League free agent with the San Francisco Giants in December of 2008.

The last five games are just the latest in a two-week offensive surge for Guzman and the Grizzlies. Since April 19th, the first-baseman has hit safely in 12 of his last 13 games, and has now homered in five of his last six games. He currently ranks among the Grizzlies leaders in home runs (1st), RBI (1st), extra-base hits (1st), runs scored (2nd), and batting average (3rd). Over their last ten games Fresno is batting .294 as a team, and averaging 5.6 runs per game.

Guzman is the first Grizzly to receive a weekly Pacific Coast League honor since RHP Matt Palmer in May of last season. Omaha right-hander Luke Hochevar was named the PCL's Pitcher of the Week today, after throwing a complete-game shutout to earn his League-leading fifth win on Saturday.

The Grizzlies, who have won four of their last five, and seven of their last 11, return to Chukchansi Park tonight to open a four-game series with division rival Las Vegas.

[TkleMstr52]

How long can they afford to keep him out of the bigs? This guy needs the shot, they have seen enough from Ishis bat (in a negative way) to make the call

[McCovey]

How long can they afford to keep him out of the bigs? This guy needs the shot, they have seen enough from Ishis bat (in a negative way) to make the call
I have to agree. Perhaps start Guzman at third, move Pablo to first base and bench Ishikawa?

[TkleMstr52]

That is the perfect way to play this hand but then who loses a spot on the club?

[McCovey]

Some good news on Wendell Fairly. He's hitting .310 over his past 10 games. I'm hoping the kid's power will start to show itself. He has just two extra base hits with zero HRs so far this season.

[McCovey]

That is the perfect way to play this hand but then who loses a spot on the club?
That's true, someone has to be sent down to AAA. I guess Ishi would be the logical choice?

[McCovey]

MadBum got beat for the first time yesterday, 2-0, by Modesto. He only gave up 2 runs and three hits but still took the loss. Sounds like a Matt Cain start. :p

[TkleMstr52]

Ishi it is. Sounds like a Giants game.

[McCovey]

BREAKING NEWS!


At lunch time I heard on KNBR that Madison Bumgarner, Tim Alderson, and Brandon Crawford have been promoted to AA Connecticut!! Wow, this is fast. However, Posey is staying at San Jose for now.

[McCovey]

From last night's game...


San Jose Collects 16 Hits; Alderson, Bumgarner and Crawford Promoted

Angel Villalona hit his fourth home run of the season as part of a perfect 4-for-4 effort at the plate leading the San Jose Giants to a 10-4 victory over the Bakersfield Blaze on Wednesday night at Sam Lynn Ballpark. Villalona also rapped out two doubles, scored four runs, collected three RBI’s and reached base safely in all five of his plate appearances. San Jose finished the contest with 16 hits and has now taken the first two games of the series. With the victory, the Giants improve their record to 17-10.

Immediately after the game, the San Francisco Giants promoted top prospect pitchers Madison Bumgarner (3-1, 1.48 ERA) and Tim Alderson (1-1, 4.15 ERA) along with hot-hitting shortstop Brandon Crawford (.371, 6 HR, 17 RBI) to Double-A Connecticut.

On Wednesday, Villalona and Nick Noonan (4-for-6, 3B, 2 RBI) both pounded out four hits to lead the Giants offensive attack. Crawford (2-for-6), Michael Ambort (2-for-4, RBI) and Roger Kieschnick (2-for-4) also finished with multiple-hit performances at the plate.

Clayton Tanner (2-0) earned the win on the mound for San Jose with five effective innings of work. Tanner allowed four hits and one unearned run while issuing two walks and striking out four.

The Giants used three consecutive extra-base hits in the top of the second inning to score a pair of runs and take an early 2-0 lead over the Blaze. With one out, Roger Kieschnick tripled into the right field corner before Villalona grounded an RBI double down the left field line. Thomas Neal followed with a line drive double off the fence in left to easily score Villalona with the second run of the frame.

In the top of the third, Noonan led off with a triple off the fence in right center field before scoring two batters later on Conor Gillaspie’s ground out. San Jose then added to their lead with two more runs in the fourth inning. Villlalona led off by getting hit by a pitch before Shane Jordan reached base safely with a one-out bunt single. After Crawford grounded into a fielder’s choice, Noonan delivered an RBI single to score Villalona. Then with runners on the corners and Buster Posey at the plate, Noonan broke for second base in an attempted steal. On the play, Crawford raced toward home and despite getting into a rundown, was able to avoid the tag from Bakersfield catcher Jose Felix and score San Jose’s fifth run of the night.

The only run Tanner allowed came in the bottom of the fourth inning when Mauro Gomez led off with a double before scoring when Joey Butler reached on a passed ball when he swung and missed at a strike three pitch with two outs. Tanner allowed the leadoff batter to reach base safely in the second and third innings, but promptly induced a double play ground ball from the next hitter in each frame. Tanner’s only perfect inning of the contest came in the bottom of the fifth.

The Giants kept the pressure on the Blaze with two more runs in the top of the sixth inning. Jordan led off by drawing a walk before Crawford singled and then Noonan came through with an RBI single. Three batters later, Ambort belted an RBI single to the fence in right field to make the score 7-1.

In the seventh, Villalona led off with a double to the gap in right center field before scoring on Jordan’s ground out. Then in the top of the eighth, Villalona ripped a mammoth two-run homer to deep left field to cap San Jose’s scoring for the night.

T.J. Brewer (2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 SO) and Mitch Lively (2 IP, 5 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 0 BB, 6 SO) both worked out of the Giants bullpen. Brewer, who entered the game in the bottom of the sixth, retired six out of the seven batters he faced. Lively recorded all six of his outs via the strikeout, but did surrender a solo homer to Mitch Moreland in the bottom of the eighth before Renny Osuna connected for a two-out, two-run double in the ninth.

Michael Main (1-4) suffered the loss for Bakersfield after yielding five runs (four earned) on nine hits over five innings. Main was a first round draft pick of the Texas Rangers in 2007, but has struggled this year with an 8.39 ERA through six starts.

Notes: The Giants out-hit the Blaze by a 16-10 margin … San Jose has won consecutive games for the first time since April 22-23 … Tanner lowered his ERA to 3.06 … Neal extended his hitting streak to eight games matching the longest for a Giants player this season (Posey, Noonan) … Bakersfield manager Steve Buechele was ejected by home plate umpire Bronson Martinez in the top of the fourth for arguing a play at the plate … San Jose scored at least one run in six out of the nine innings … Villalona homered for the first time since April 19 (15 games) … San Francisco has yet to announce replacements for Bumgarner, Alderson and Crawford on San Jose’s roster.

On Deck: The Giants will look for a three-game sweep of the Blaze when their series concludes on Thursday night. First pitch at Sam Lynn Ballpark is scheduled for 7:15 PM. Craig Clark (1-1, 2.57 ERA) is slated to start on the mound for San Jose while Bakersfield is expected to counter with Blake Beavan (0-4, 7.88 ERA). The game can be heard live on www.sjgiants.com (http://www.sjgiants.com).

[TkleMstr52]

Wow, I am surprised T2 got promoted, doesnt seem like he was doing all that well YET. The other 2 callups were no surprise. When should we expect Posey to be in AA with the pitchers of the future for the Giants?? Do we think with as well as he has played Anvil will make the jump this season??

[McCovey]

Yeah, Alderson has pitched just OK this season but he was the best pitcher in the California League in '08. I'd leave Anvil in San Jose most of the season. Let him build a good track record of success to give him confidence. Plus, he's only 18 years old so there is no reason to rush him.

I'm starting to really like this Crawford kid. A power hitting shortstop?! Those guys don't grow on trees, ya know!

[McCovey]

The offical press release.


Bumgarner, Alderson promoted by Giants

05/07/2009 5:37 PM ET
By Danny Wild / MLB.com

Giants top prospect Madison Bumgarner is relocating from San Jose to the east coast, but it's actually another step closer in his journey to San Francisco.

Bumgarner, ranked the No. 6 top prospect (http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/minorleagues/prospects/y2009/profile.jsp?t=p_top&pid=518516) in the Minors by MLB.com, was promoted by the Giants along with right-hander Tim Alderson and shortstop Brandon Crawford to Double-A Connecticut following their game with San Jose on Wednesday night.

Bumgarner, one of the Giants' first-round picks in the 2007 Draft, was promoted to San Jose this season after a breakout campaign with Class A Augusta in 2008. The 19-year-old southpaw was named Minor League Baseball's Most Spectacular Pitcher, the South Atlantic League's Most Outstanding Pitcher and MLB.com's Class A Starting Pitcher of the Year after finishing the season 15-3 with a 1.46 ERA in 24 starts. The former No. 10 overall pick struck out 164 in 141 1/3 innings.

He went 3-1 in five starts for San Jose and owned the third-lowest ERA in the California League (1.48).

Alderson's promotion is somewhat overdue -- a fellow first-round pick from 2007, Alderson was named MLB.com's Class A Advanced Starting Pitcher of the Year in 2008 after he went 13-4 with a 2.79 ERA in 26 outings for San Jose.

The 20-year-old Scottsdale, Ariz. native struck out 20 in 26 innings this season and was 1-1 with a 4.15 ERA in five appearances with the Giants before his promotion.

He allowed two runs over seven strong innings in his last start on May 3 for his first win.

Crawford, a UCLA product out of Mountain View, Calif., is batting .391 in his last 10 games and had reeled off four consecutive multi-hit efforts before his promotion Wednesday night. He's batting .371 with six homers and 17 RBIs through 25 games with San Jose and ranks second in hits (39) and fourth in average in the League. Bumgarner and Alderson join a Defenders rotation that already boasts some talented arms, including 2008 SAL All-Star Daryl Maday (1-1, 2.17, 18 K) and 2007 Futures Game All-Star Henry Sosa (1-0, 2.35, 17 K).

[Bear]

I do like the idea of a power hitting shortstop!:D

[TkleMstr52]

Yeah, Alderson has pitched just OK this season but he was the best pitcher in the California League in '08. I'd leave Anvil in San Jose most of the season. Let him build a good track record of success to give him confidence. Plus, he's only 18 years old so there is no reason to rush him.

I'm starting to really like this Crawford kid. A power hitting shortstop?! Those guys don't grow on trees, ya know!

I am actually excited about last years 1st 4 picks. This Crawford looks like a steal thus far in the fourth round!!

We all know what Posey and Crawford are doing, also check the numbers for Kieschnick(same boat). Gillaspie has a .263ish avg and not a good slg%, but he has walked 16 times to his 16 ks, so he is a guy that can get on base. I believe he will improve in the other categories but is further away from a stay in the bigs than the other 3 younGuns.

[TkleMstr52]

I do like the idea of a power hitting shortstop!:D

Can he play 1st?? I like the idea of a power hitter at any position!! :pound:

[McCovey]

Can he play 1st?? I like the idea of a power hitter at any position!! :pound:
That's true! :pound: According to his bio, Crawford is listed at 6'2", 200 lbs. That's a big kid.

[TkleMstr52]

If so, they have a few big kids, and I just looked up Connecticut. To include Posey, Gillaspie, Kieschnick and Villalona!! They are all around the same size as Crawford.

[McCovey]

In 2011 The Giants can potentially be really good.

C- Buster Posey
1B- Angel Villalona
2B- Nick Noonan
3B- Pablo Sandoval
SS- Brandon Crawford
LF- Fred Lewis
CF- ???
RF- ???

SP- Tim Linceum
SP- Matt Cain
SP- Jonathan Sanchez
SP- Madison Bumgarner
SP- Tim Alderson

[Bear]

In 2011 The Giants can potentially be really good.

C- Buster Posey
1B- Angel Villalona
2B- Nick Noonan
3B- Pablo Sandoval
SS- Brandon Crawford
LF- Fred Lewis
CF- ???
RF- ???

SP- Tim Linceum
SP- Matt Cain
SP- Jonathan Sanchez
SP- Madison Bumgarner
SP- Tim Alderson

Where does Mr. Zito fit in?:confused:

[McCovey]

Zito will have been traded by then. :p

[Bear]

Zito will have been traded by then. :p

How can we ever do that with all that money we owe him?:eek:

[McCovey]

How can we ever do that with all that money we owe him?:eek:
Very carefully? When the Rangers traded A-Rod to the Yankees they still paid the majority of A-Rod's contract. The best case scenario is that Zito get's really hot over half a season and a contending team wants to trade for Zito. The Giants can agree to pay part of Zito's contract.

[Bear]

Very carefully? When the Rangers traded A-Rod to the Yankees they still paid the majority of A-Rod's contract. The best case scenario is that Zito get's really hot over half a season and a contending team wants to trade for Zito. The Giants can agree to pay part of Zito's contract.

This sounds very much like what the Bear has been preaching and a certain McCovey has said no way. Welcome aboard Mc!:eek:

[McCovey]

This sounds very much like what the Bear has been preaching and a certain McCovey has said no way. Welcome aboard Mc!:eek:
I can admit when I'm wrong. :D

[TkleMstr52]

Thats a 1st, haha

[SF Kid]

Wait..Zito is becoming a star again!

[Bear]

Wait..Zito is becoming a star again!

For how long?:nono:

[SF Kid]

Not sure. :o

[McCovey]

For how long?:nono:
Long enough to be traded! :beerbang:

[TkleMstr52]

I doubt anyone will want him, no matter how long he pitches this well.

[Swede]

Right now, let's keep him.

[McCovey]

Tim Alderson rocked today! He pitched 6.2 innings of no-hit ball with 10 K's and 1 BB! He got the win.

http://connecticut.defenders.milb.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=t514&t=g_log&gid=2009_05_10_nrwaax_nhmaax_1

[TkleMstr52]

Damnit Mc, I was excited and thinkin I was gonna post that update before you!! Haha, oh well, Ill just add, not bad for the kids 1st start at AA Connecticut!! Actually very impressive!! Hey Mc when does Bumgarner get his 1st shot at AA?

[McCovey]

I'm not sure when MadBum gets his first AA start. Maybe today? :shrug:

[TkleMstr52]

I am looking forward to seeing the results!! He pitched so well in A ball, I hope this continues in AA!! Are they rushing these guys? It doesnt seem like they were in A very long.

[TkleMstr52]

Bumgarner starts tonight against the 13-15 New Britain Rock Cats!!!

[McCovey]

I am looking forward to seeing the results!! He pitched so well in A ball, I hope this continues in AA!! Are they rushing these guys? It doesnt seem like they were in A very long.
Alderson was the California League Pitcher of the Year in 2008. I was surprised he went back to San Jose this season. But the Giants said that they wanted to wait until the weather got warmer in Connecticut before sending Alderson there. That seems like a silly reason to hold him back. The other Connecticut pitchers didn't seem to have a problem pitching in "cold" weather. MadBum going to Connecticut was a bit of surprise. But he was just so dominant in his few starts at San Jose I guess the Giants figured he wasn't being challenged enough at A ball. I'm excited about Crawford. His power intrigues me. The Giants could use a power hitting shortstop.

[McCovey]

Posey (2 for 4, 2 RBI, 2 runs) and Villalona (3 for 5, 3 RBI) both had a good game yesterday.

http://www.sjgiants.com/ArDisplay.aspx?ID=1869&SecID=27

[McCovey]

Villalona is currently hitting .330! Holy cow. I NEVER expected this from him. I have to go check him in person out soon. I expect the great power everyone has predicted from him will emerge in the near future.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?n=Villalona%20%201B&pos=&sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=505830

[TkleMstr52]

I am not that surprised, he did show improvement from start to finish, also he is in a hitters league right now, I will not be surprised if he struggles at 1st as he moves up, but I think he will continue to adjust. The whole organization needs to learn that the 1st strike may not be the best pitch you will see and start taking more pitches.

[SF Kid]

Mc I can't believe how much yo know about the minor league guys. I'm still trying to memorize the Giants stating lineup. :p :o

[McCovey]

Mc I can't believe how much yo know about the minor league guys. I'm still trying to memorize the Giants stating lineup. :p :o
I just read the minor league baseball site. They have all kinds of neat stuff there.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/index.jsp

[McCovey]

Bumgarner pitched 6 innings allowing 1 run on 7 hits, 2 K's, and 0 walks. I'm listening to the game right now over the Internet! The Defenders are up 5-1 in the bottom of the 8th inning.

[TkleMstr52]

Uh oh lookin good!!

[TkleMstr52]

Jesus Guzman was 5-6 tonight with a 2b, 3rbi and 2r

[McCovey]

In the last 10 games Guzman is hitting .457 with 2 Hrs. 12 RBI, and 9 runs scored.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?n=Guzman%2C%20J%20%201B&pos=&sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=461882

[Bear]

Mc I can't believe how much yo know about the minor league guys. I'm still trying to memorize the Giants stating lineup. :p :o

You always were a little slow! At this rate you will learn the 2009 starting lineup about ten minutes before the end of the season.:eek:

[SF Kid]

Dumb Bear.

[TkleMstr52]

On the Kids behalf, the starting lineup has been like musical chairs.

[McCovey]

Jesus Guzman is now hitting .363 at the moment. I guess that's not good enough to get a call up to the big club. :rolleyes:

[Bear]

Jesus Guzman is now hitting .363 at the moment. I guess that's not good enough to get a call up to the big club. :rolleyes:

Oh no we have sooo many big boppers.:pound:

[TkleMstr52]

Maybe he will get a shot as Renteria had to leave the game with a hamstring injury.

[McCovey]

Oh no we have sooo many big boppers.:pound:
:pound:

[McCovey]

Seriously, I find it impossible to believe that the giants have not at least considered bringing up Guzman. Does the man have to hit .500 to get a call up? :shrug:

[TkleMstr52]

Maybe he is playing too well!? :pound:

[McCovey]

Tim Alderson is pitching tonight! :beerbang:

[McCovey]

Roger Kieschnick is having a very good May. He's an outfielder at San Jose. A potential future Giants outfielder?


http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?n=Kieschnick%20%20RF&pos=&sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=523261

[TkleMstr52]

Kieschnick is one of the expected power hitters in the system. He looks good.

[McCovey]

Kieschnick is one of the expected power hitters in the system. He looks good.
He went 3 for 4 tonight and is now hitting .341. Villalona also homered tonight.

[McCovey]

Connecticut's game was called after one inning because of fog! :pound: Alderson pitched one inning allowed two hits, zero runs, ans two strikeouts.

[TkleMstr52]

Now that is domination!! 18k's per 9 innings!! Haha. So where does that put AnVil as far as stats??

[McCovey]

Here is Villalona's stat page. I do like how his K/BB rate is improving. Last season he had a 6.56 K/BB rate. Now it's down to 3.71 K/BB. That's good improvement. :)

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?n=Villalona%20%201B&pos=&sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=505830

[McCovey]

I just noticed something about Villalona. Even though Villalona is a right handed batter he has a reverse platoon. Against RHP he's hitting .351. Against LHP he's hitting .222. :confused:

[TkleMstr52]

Well now, imagine if he can correct the lhp part of that equation!!

[McCovey]

The Connecticut Defender's fogged out game from yesterday was resumed today. Alderson didn't pitch. But Bumgarner pitched in "relief" going 6 innings with 9 K's-3 BB's whith just one hit allowed.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?gid=2009_05_16_nhmaax_nrwaax_1&t=g_box&did=milb

I'm beginning to think that we'll see Bumgarner in S.F. towards the end of this season. :)

[McCovey]

Word has it that Jesus Guzman may come up to SF to DH in this weekend series in Seattle! I hope the word is true. :)

[TkleMstr52]

Word has it that Jesus Guzman may come up to SF to DH in this weekend series in Seattle! I hope the word is true. :)

If he his well, what are the chances he stays?? :beerbang:

[McCovey]

Ho hom, Guzmam had a second straight three-hit game last night. Over the past 10 games Guzman is hitting .500 (21 for 42), .714 SLG, 3 doubles, 3 triples, 11 RBI, 11 runs scored. For the season he is hitting .362/.383/.586. Sabean, hello?

[TkleMstr52]

Thats amazing, is his D worse than Mat Gamel from Milwaukee??

[McCovey]

Last night Guzman went 2 for 5 with 2 doubles, a run scored, and two walks. Guzman is now hitting .363/.391/.592.

[SF Kid]

:bugeye:

So when do we give him a try? September?

[McCovey]

:bugeye:

So when do we give him a try? September?
Rumor has it he may he called up this weekend to DH in Seattle! :beerbang:

[SF Kid]

Rumor has it he may he called up this weekend to DH in Seattle! :beerbang:I'm all for it. We need some help in this pathetic batting order.

[TkleMstr52]

If he comes up and hits well, then gets sent back to AAA, I think that is when I will stop wasting my time watching thier losing ways. They need a lot of help, so they called up a tweener: Kevin Frandsen. As Kid said, Pathetic!!

[McCovey]

Tim Alderson pitched last night. He had a solid effort going 6 1/3 innings, 9 hits, 3 ER, 6 K's, 0 BBs and he got the win. He's now 2-0, 1.93 ERA, 18 Ks, 1 BB in 14 IP. An 18 K/1 BB rate is just crazy! :eek:

I hate to say this but perhaps the Giants need to trade either Bumgarner or Alderson for a blue chip hitting prospect. But I would only trade them for an elite position player prospect. What do you guys think? :shrug:

[Bear]

Tim Alderson pitched last night. He had a solid effort going 6 1/3 innings, 9 hits, 3 ER, 6 K's, 0 BBs and he got the win. He's now 2-0, 1.93 ERA, 18 Ks, 1 BB in 14 IP. An 18 K/1 BB rate is just crazy! :eek:

I hate to say this but perhaps the Giants need to trade either Bumgarner or Alderson for a blue chip hitting prospect. But I would only trade them for an elite position player prospect. What do you guys think? :shrug:

This I would not due. Look, Sanchez has value and at this point so does Zito (if we help with his contract). Move these guys along with so of this years mistakes and continue to build. It is already to late for this year.:(

[McCovey]

This I would not due. Look, Sanchez has value and at this point so does Zito (if we help with his contract). Move these guys along with so of this years mistakes and continue to build. It is already to late for this year.:(
Sanchez and Zito may have some value right now but realistically what can they bring in return? They will not bring an elite power prospect IMO. When I think of an elite power prospect I'm thinking of someone like Evan Longoria, or Jay Bruce, or Colby Rasmus or Mike Stanton. Sanchez nor Zito would bring such a player to the Giants. However, I do agree that keeping Bumgarner and Alderson is the best option for now.

[McCovey]

Brandon Crawford is doing well at AA. He hit his first HR for Connecticut last night. He is now hitting .366/.395/.537 in 10 games. His 1 BB/10 K concerns me. But it's not a problem yet.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?n=Brandon%20Crawford&pos=&sid=t514&t=p_pbp&pid=543063

[McCovey]

So I was thinking which prospects do you think will debut in SF this season. I think Bumgarner and Alderson will most likely debut this season, I'd say mid August. If Crawford continues to hit well at AA he could debut this season as well. I'm not sure about Posey. And Villalona is too young to debut this season and raw to debut in '09.

[Bear]

So I was thinking which prospects do you think will debut in SF this season. I think Bumgarner and Alderson will most likely debut this season, I'd say mid August. If Crawford continues to hit well at AA he could debut this season as well. I'm not sure about Posey. And Villalona is too young to debut this season and raw to debut in '09.

If the Giants do not trade Sanchez and or Zito I hope that Bumgarner and Alderson do not debut this year. It's not the pitching that is the problem so why rush these kid up here. It would just stack up starting pitchers which we can't use all at one time.:nono:

[McCovey]

That's a good point Bear. The trading deadline just might be interesting this season for Giants fans.

[McCovey]

BREAKING NEWS!


I was driving to school this afternoon around 5 pm lstening to Brian Sabean on KNBR. Sabean said the Giant have called up Jesus Guzman! :bananadance: They are trying to get him to San Diego tonight. He probably won't play tonight but will play in Seattle this weekend taking over first base.

[McCovey]

Hey, can we trade for this guy? The Cubs have this guy named Jake Fox whos is absolutely destroying PCL pitching. He's hitting .431/.513/.954, 17 HR, 13 doubles, 50 RBI, 38 R in just 35 games. Are you kidding me! A .954 slugging percentage! :eek: The Cubs have all sorts of injuries and this guy is laboring at AAA? Derel Lee, the Cubs first basman, is hitting .233/.300/.388 with just four HRs.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=444844

[TkleMstr52]

They cant afford him, especially with Lee struggling. Is Aramis back and healthy for the Cubs??

[TkleMstr52]

BREAKING NEWS!


I was driving to school this afternoon around 5 pm lstening to Brian Sabean on KNBR. Sabean said the Giant have called up Jesus Guzman! :bananadance: They are trying to get him to San Diego tonight. He probably won't play tonight but will play in Seattle this weekend taking over first base.

He went 0-1 tonight and grounded into a double play with runners on 1st and 3rd, one out. More of the same, I am glad he got the call but I hope he lasts longer than this weekends series!

[McCovey]

He went 0-1 tonight and grounded into a double play with runners on 1st and 3rd, one out. More of the same, I am glad he got the call but I hope he lasts longer than this weekends series!
I missed the game last night. But Guzman went 0 for 2 and had 5 LOB. Hopefully, he'll do better than this in Seattle!

[McCovey]

Brandon Crawford had another good game last night going 2 for 5 with an RBI. He's now hitting .370/.396/.522. I am concerned with his 12 K's and just one walk, though.

[McCovey]

Hey, I saw this over at the McCovey Chronicles blog. IT was message posted about Buster Posey. The poster said he heard Bobby Evans, the Giants VP of Baseball Operations, said the following.


Bobby Evans said on the radio that they want to give Posey about 300 ABs and then they’re going to move him to triple a. He’s at 150 right now so I guess we should expect him there in about a month and half.

[McCovey]

It seems Posey has broken out of his early May slump. He went 2 for 4 today with a HR and 4 RBI, and 2 runs. In 40 games Posey is hitting:

.304/.383/.525, 8 HR, 11 doubles, 36 RBI, 26 R, 17 BB, 26 K.

Posey is coming along very nicely. We'll see if he gets promoted to AAA Fresno.

[McCovey]

Bumgarner had another great outing. MadBum went 6 innings. allowed 2 hits, 0 ER, 10 K, 1 BB. He's now 3-0, 0.50 ERA, 21 Ks, 4 BB, 10 hits in 18 innings.


Bumgarner dominant in Double-A rout
Strikes out 10 over six shutout innings, improves to 3-0

By Josh Jackson
Special to MLB.com
05/23/09 6:57 PM ET

Madison Bumgarner didn't need a lot of run support to earn his third win in as many Double-A appearances. But that didn't stop the Connecticut Defenders from scoring.

Bumgarner, MLB.com's No. 6 prospect (http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/minorleagues/prospects/y2009/profile.jsp?t=p_top&pid=518516), allowed two hits and fanned 10 over six shutout innings Saturday as the Defenders crushed the Portland Sea Dogs, 12-1, at Hadlock Field.

Staked to a 1-0 lead, the 19-year-old left-hander struck out the side in the first inning and fanned the first two batters in the second.

"That always feels good. It's a great way to start a game and build your confidence," Bumgarner said. "You can always relax a little after that."

Portland's Juan Apodaca ended the strikeout streak by lining a single to left field, but Bumgarner promptly picked him off to end the inning.
"He didn't have an especially big lead," said Bumgarner. "I just decided to throw over there one time and see what happened."

Bumgarner gave up a double to Ryan Kalish to start the third but did not allow another Sea Dog to reach until Apodaca walked in the fifth. Although Apodaca took a normal lead, Bumgarner said he seemed more alert this time.

"I didn't throw over again. He was definitely ready for it, then."
After putting up a run in each of the first three innings, the Defenders stayed quiet until scoring five times in the sixth as Brock Bond delivered a two-run double and a David Maroul followed with a two-run homer.

"It's much easier to pitch with a lead. The team scored some runs for me and it just helped me relax," Bumgarner said.

The 10th overall pick in the 2007 First-Year Player Draft, Bumgarner was promoted from Class A Advanced San Jose on May 7 along with fellow starter Tim Alderson and shortstop Brandon Crawford.

The North Carolina native has allowed one run on 10 hits and four walks while striking out 21 over 18 innings in the Eastern League.

"It's the same game. I still pitch the same," he said. "I just go out there and give it my best."

Although Bumgarner left the game after the sixth, he said he felt like he could have thrown another inning or two, if necessary.

"I know they have me on a pretty light pitch count," he said. "I don't know what it is, but I wasn't too tired. I felt good."

[Bear]

It seems Posey has broken out of his early May slump. He went 2 for 4 today with a HR and 4 RBI, and 2 runs. In 40 games Posey is hitting:

.304/.383/.525, 8 HR, 11 doubles, 36 RBI, 26 R, 17 BB, 26 K.

Cain is coming along very nicely. We'll see if he gets promoted to AAA Fresno.

Who is this new Cain? Do we have a new Cain on the roster ??

[McCovey]

Who is this new Cain? Do we have a new Cain on the roster ??
:p Good catch, Bear. I meant Posey of course!

[Bear]

:p Good catch, Bear. I meant Posey of course!

McCovey made a mistake? No way!:bugeye:

[McCovey]

Roger Kieschnick is having a pretty good season at San Jose.

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?n=Kieschnick%20%20RF&pos=&sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=523261

[McCovey]

Posy had a three hit game today with a double and an RBI.


San Jose Pounds Out 15 Hits To Take Three-Of-Four In Series

5/25/2009

Thomas Neal hit a home run for the second consecutive game and Craig Clark tossed seven effective innings to lead the San Jose Giants to a 7-5 victory over the Modesto Nuts on Monday afternoon at Municipal Stadium. In the finale of the four-game series, Modesto scored four runs in the top of the eighth inning and loaded the bases in the ninth, but failed to complete the comeback with Steve Edlefsen needing just one pitch upon entering the game to secure the win. With the victory, San Jose takes three out of four games in the series and improves their overall record to 26-19 – 1 1/2 games behind Visalia (27-17) for the top spot in the first half North Division race.

Buster Posey (3-for-4, 2B, RBI) led a 15-hit Giants offensive attack as every San Jose starter recorded at least one hit in the game. Neal (2-for-4, 2B, HR, 3 RBI), Angel Villalona (2-for-4, 2B), Brian Bocock (2-for-4, 2B) and Ryan Lormand (2-for-4, RBI) also had multi-hit performances at the plate.

Clark (3-2) earned the victory on the mound after surrendering just one run on five hits. The left-hander walked two and struck out seven.

San Jose quickly jumped in front against Nuts starting pitcher Cory Riordan with a single run in the first, two runs in the second and three more tallies in the third. In the bottom of the first inning, Nick Noonan doubled with one out before immediately scoring when the next hitter, Posey, grounded a sharp single up the middle.

In the second, Neal led off with a double before advancing to third base on Villalona’s bloop double over the head of first baseman Jeff Cunningham. Conor Gillaspie followed with a ground ball single into center field to easily score both runners giving the Giants a 3-0 advantage.

Neal extended the San Jose lead in the bottom of the third inning with his seventh home run of the season. Back-to-back one-out singles from Posey and Kieschnick put runners on first and second before Neal stepped to the plate and hit the first pitch of his at-bat over the fence in left field for a three-run homer and a 6-0 margin.

Clark didn’t allow his first hit until Van Kooten led off the top of the fourth inning with a solo homer to left. Clark yielded three singles in the fifth, but worked out of trouble after consecutive strikeouts of Van Kooten and Matt Repec. Clark retired the last six batters of his outing and threw 83 pitches during his seven-inning stint.

Facing Giants reliever Edwin Quirarte, Modesto rallied to score four runs in the top of the eighth. Two singles and a walk loaded the bases with one out before Quirarte recovered to strike out Brian Rike. However, Maikol Gonzalez followed with a line drive double into the left field corner to score a pair of runs and bring the Nuts to within 6-3. Daniel Turpen was then summoned from the bullpen, but he promptly allowed a two-run single to Michael Mitchell to make the score 6-5. Mitchell, who was representing the potential tying run, advanced to second base when the throw from the outfield went all the way home, but he was stranded in scoring position after Turpen induced the next hitter, Jay Cox, to ground out to second base.

San Jose scored a key insurance run in the bottom of the eighth inning on back-to-back two-out doubles from Bocock and Lormand.

Turpen appeared headed for a quick top of the ninth inning after he set down the first two batters and then got the third hitter, Repec, to hit a ground ball to third base. However, third baseman Skyler Stromsmoe threw wildly to first for the game’s only error to keep the Nuts alive. Lars Davis followed the error with a line drive single into center field before Radames Nazario reached on an infield single to load the bases. With the potential tying and go-ahead runs on base, Edlefsen was brought into the game and on one pitch, he retired Rike on a routine fly ball to left field ending the contest.

Edlefsen (1/3 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 SO) was credited with his third save of the year.

Riordan (1-4) suffered the loss for Modesto after allowing six runs (all earned) on 11 hits over five innings.

Notes: San Jose finished their seven-game homestand with a 4-3 record … The Giants have won three games in a row for the first time since April 18-20 … San Jose and Modesto played each other 15 times during May with the Giants holding a slim 8-7 advantage … Neal was 4-for-8 with a double, two homers and six RBI’s in the last two games of the series … Darren Ford (1-for-5, SB) returned to lineup for the first time since May 10 … Ford was nursing a right arm injury … The Giants scored 24 runs in the last three games of the series.

[SF Kid]

Can we test him to see if he can hit ML pitching? :p

[Bear]

Can we test him to see if he can hit ML pitching? :p

I think its too soon. Give him until September call-ups.:rolleyes:

[SF Kid]

I think its too soon. Give him until September call-ups.:rolleyes:Our lineup sucks. We can't hit worth shit. Why wait until September? We're not going anywhere anyway. :rolleyes:

[Bear]

Our lineup sucks. We can't hit worth shit. Why wait until September? We're not going anywhere anyway. :rolleyes:

Look you said it we are not going anywhere any how. So why rush him and get him over his head and set him up to fail. No, I think waiting three months is no big deal and by doing so he might be ready in September.;)

[McCovey]

I have to agree with the Bear. It's a huge jump from A ball to the majors. Let Posey build up some success. From what I've read the Giants want to give Posey 300 PA's at San Jose then jump him all the way up to AAA Fresno and give him another 300 PA's. Posey has about 185 PA's at San Jose so far. In 42 games he's hitting:

.309/.387/.527, 8 HR, 37 RBI, 28 R, 12 doubles, 18 BB, 28 K, 4 SB, 0 CS

That's pretty good for Posey's first minor league season so far. Posey has Joe Mauer-like potential so the Giants shouldn't rush him. Posey's time will come soon enough.

[Bear]

A red letter day!:beerbang:

[TkleMstr52]

Will he help this team?? Doesnt everyone claim they need a power hitter?? He isnt gonna be hittin jacks in the bigs, straight out of A, AA or AAA. I hope we arent expecting a savior here, as it will take more than one player. They still need an Adam Dunn type power hitter.

[McCovey]

A red letter day!:beerbang:
:beerbang::toast:

[McCovey]

Tim Alderson had another solid game last night. He got a no-decision but he went 5 innings, 7 hits, 1 ER, 3 K, 0 BB. So far at AA Connecticut Alderson has 21 Ks and 1 BB! That's insane. For the season Alderson has 41 K's and just 4 BB's. Talk about control. :D

[McCovey]

Angel Villalona is in a bad slump right now. Over the past 10 games he's hitting .205 with 2 HR, 6 RBI, 12 K's 0 BB's. What is it with this kid and his complete inability to draw walks? So far for the season he has 7 BBs and 37 Ks.

[McCovey]

It looks like Jesus Guzman wants to return to San Francisco really fast. In his thre egames back at Fresno he has gone 7 for 10, 1 HR 5, RBI, 4 runs.

He's now hitting .383/.414/.623 for the season.

[Bear]

It looks like Jesus Guzman wants to return to San Francisco really fast. In his thre egames back at Fresno he has gone 7 for 10, 1 HR 5, RBI, 4 runs.

He's now hitting .383/.414/.623 for the season.

But where do you play him? He needs an AL team to trade for him so he can be a DH.:confused:

[McCovey]

But where do you play him? He needs an AL team to trade for him so he can be a DH.:confused:
That's a good question.

[Bear]

That's a good question.

The starting line-up today was by far the Giants best chance at winning except for the pitcher and catcher. Molina needs to do the catching and Merkin Valdez needs to replace Jonathan Sanchez in the rotation. But this is just my opinion. ;)

[TkleMstr52]

If he can hit, find a spot, I dont care. The O is playing better right now, so maybe they should include him in a deal for a big bat!!

[McCovey]

Three San Jose Giants have made the All-Star team!


6/10/2009

Posey, Neal And Kieschnick To Participate In All-Star Game On June 23rd

Three San Jose Giants players have been named to the California League All-Star Team and will participate in a game versus the Carolina League All-Stars on June 23rd at The Diamond in Lake Elsinore. Catcher Buster Posey and outfielder Thomas Neal have both been selected as starters while outfielder Roger Kieschnick was chosen as a reserve in the all-star contest.

Posey has enjoyed a tremendous all-around campaign in his first full season as a professional. The former first round draft pick is currently batting .308 with nine home runs and 41 RBI’s in 55 games. Posey has also contributed 16 doubles and five stolen bases while he boasts a .405 on-base percentage. The Tallahassee, Florida product is sixth in the league in RBI’s and tied for ninth in home runs. Defensively, the 22-year old backstop is fourth in the league having thrown out 48.9% of attempted base stealers (23-for-47).

Neal leads the Giants and is fifth in the California League (tops among outfielders) with a .332 batting average. The 21-year old is tied with Posey for the team lead in home runs (9) while he’s also collected 37 RBI’s and 18 doubles. Neal’s .583 slugging percentage and .415 on-base mark both pace the club. The San Diego native ranks among the top 10 in the league in batting average (5th), on-base percentage (5th), slugging percentage (6th), doubles (T6th) and home runs (T9th).

Kieschnick is currently batting at a .297 clip to go with seven home runs and 30 RBI’s in 56 games. The first-year player leads the Giants with four triples while he’s also rapped out 10 doubles and stolen six bases. Kieschnick enjoyed a tremendous month of May when he hit .330 with three home runs.

High Desert (4) is the only team that boasts more All-Star starters than the Giants while just the Lake Elsinore Storm (5) and Mavericks (4) feature more players overall.

Posey (1st round) and Kieschnick (3rd round) were both selected by the San Francisco Giants in the 2008 draft while Neal was chosen in the 37th round in 2005. All three players will be participating in their first professional all-star games.

The California League All-Star squad will be led by current Lake Elsinore manager and former San Jose Giants skipper Carlos Lezcano. The Carolina League won last year’s game in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina by a 3-1 score and lead the overall series with six victories, while the California League has won four games and two contests have ended in ties.

[McCovey]

WilltheThrill and I will be going to tonight's San Jose Giants game. :beerbang:

[Bear]

WilltheThrill and I will be going to tonight's San Jose Giants game. :beerbang:

Now that should be fun. A complete report is required.:beerbang:

[McCovey]

Now that should be fun. A complete report is required.:beerbang:
Of course! :beerbang: I plan to keep a close eye on Posey, Villalona, Neal, and Kierschnick.

[McCovey]

Ok, so WilltheThrill and I reached the same conclusion. Buster Posey and Thomas Neal are the real deal. Posey is pretty advanced as a hitter. He doesn't chase bad pitches and he can drive the balls the other way. Posey was 2 for 2 with two walks. Neal was 2 for 4 with a HR. Neal is now hitting .346/.426/.626, 12 HRs, 42 RBI. I expect Posey and Neal to be promoted very soon. Neither has much to prove in A-ball.

[Bear]

Ok, so WilltheThrill and I reached the same conclusion. Buster Posey and Thomas Neal are the real deal. Posey is pretty advanced as a hitter. He doesn't chase bad pitches and he can drive the balls the other way. Posey was 2 for 2 with two walks. Neal was 2 for 4 with a HR. Neal is now hitting .346/.426/.626, 12 HRs, 42 RBI. I expect Posey and Neal to be promoted very soon. Neither has much to prove in A-ball.


What about Villalona?:confused:

[McCovey]

Villalona didn't play. He fouled off a ball off his foot on Saturday. He didn't play on Sunday and he was a late scratch in last night's game.

[SF Kid]

Villalona? I thought that was a high school in CA. :p

[jimm]

Nah, you're thinking of Villanova, a college back East! :D

[Bear]

Nah, you're thinking of Villanova, a college back East! :D

No, he is thinking Villanova Prep a high school in Ojai, CA where the Kid and the Bear went in the 1960's. Early 1960's.:eek:

[Swede]

Just a note, thanks to those of you who are actively involved with the minor leagues. The information that is posted has helped me in knowing what is going on without doing all of the research. One cannot but help get excited about what the future holds for the Giants.

[McCovey]

Just a note, thanks to those of you who are actively involved with the minor leagues. The information that is posted has helped me in knowing what is going on without doing all of the research. One cannot but help get excited about what the future holds for the Giants.
That's what this website is here for. :beerbang: We want to keep all Giants fans informed about the Giants future. I strongly believe the Giants are on the cusp of beginning another era of Giants playoff baseball. I can't wait to see players like Buster Posey and Thomas Neal in San Francisco.

[Bear]

That's what this website is here for. :beerbang: We want to keep all Giants fans informed about the Giants future. I strongly believe the Giants are on the cusp of beginning another era of Giants playoff baseball. I can't wait to see players like Buster Posey and Thomas Neal in San Francisco.

Not to mention the next great Giant pitching duo Tim Alderson & Madison Bumgarner!:beerbang:

[McCovey]

Two Giants prospects will play in this year's Future's Game.



Two prospects to play in Futures Game
Bumgarner will play for U.S., Villalona on World roster

By Chris Haft / MLB.com
06/25/09

The XM All-Star Futures Game, always a stage for top talent, will bear extra significance for the Giants this year as two of their brightest prospects have been selected to participate in the showcase. Pitcher Madison Bumgarner, who's widely believed to be on the fast track to the Major Leagues, and first baseman Angel Villalona, whose skills have been celebrated since the Giants signed him as a 16-year-old, will represent the organization.

The 11th annual XM All-Star Futures Game, pitting the best Minor League prospects from the United States against the best from the rest of the World, will be held at Busch Stadium in St. Louis on All-Star Sunday, July 12, at 11 a.m. PT. MLB.com will provide complete coverage before, during and after the game, which can be seen live on ESPN2 and ESPN2 HD and followed live on Gameday.

Madison Bumgarner, LHP, Double-A Connecticut (U.S. Team)
Bumgarner, 19, began the season with the Giants' high-Class A affiliate in San Jose and was promoted to Double-A Connecticut once warmer weather hit. Excellence followed him from place to place.

The California League was no match for Bumgarner, who went 3-1 with a 1.48 ERA in five games with San Jose. He struck out 23 and walked just four in 24 1/3 innings. Since advancing to Connecticut, Bumgarner has compiled a 4-1 mark with a 2.13 ERA in his first seven appearances. Control has remained his hallmark, as evidenced by his 33 strikeouts and 10 walks in 38 innings.

San Francisco's No. 1 selection (10th overall) in the 2007 First-Year Player Draft, Bumgarner was named the Most Spectacular Pitcher in the Minor Leagues last year for recording the lowest ERA -- 1.46. That complemented his 15-3 record for low-Class A Augusta.

Angel Villalona, 1B, Class A San Jose (World Team)
It was a landmark event when the Giants signed Villalona in August 2006 for a $2.1 million bonus -- the largest they had given any amateur to that point, and the biggest for any international signing since the Dodgers gave Joel Guzman $2.25 million in 2001.

Villalona, a native of La Romana in the Dominican Republic, was viewed as a third baseman at the time. Since then, his traits -- and his build -- have indicated to the Giants that he's more of a fit across the diamond.
Wherever he plays, he's at home in the batter's box.

In his first 62 games with San Jose this season, Villalona hit .287 with nine home runs and 36 RBI. It's a natural progression from last year, when he hit .263 with 17 homers and 64 RBIs for Augusta.

Felipe Alou, the widely respected former big league player and manager who remains a special assistant to general manager Brian Sabean, has compared Villalona to Andres Galarraga, the five-time All-Star who hit 399 home runs in 19 Major League seasons. This will be the second Futures Game for Villalona, who also was on last year's World roster.

Chris Haft (Chris.Haft@mlb.com) is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
I'm happy that MadBum and AnVil made their respective teams. But I think Buster Posey and Thomas Neal both got hosed here, specially Posey. He deserved to make the U.S. Team. :(

[Bear]

Two Giants prospects will play in this year's Future's Game.

I'm happy that MadBum and AnVil made their respective teams. But I think Buster Posey and Thomas Neal both got hosed here, specially Posey. He deserved to make the U.S. Team. :(

There is no right or wrong answer here. There are only so many spots. Was Pablo on a team last year? My guess is he was not yet he is in the Bigs today and some of the guys on those teams last year are still in the minors. These teams are no big wup!;)

[McCovey]

The Giants had four guys in the 2008 Futures Game.

Pablo Sandoval
Angel Villalona
Nate Scheirholtz
Kevin Pucetas

[Bear]

The Giants had four guys in the 2008 Futures Game.

Pablo Sandoval
Angel Villalona
Nate Scheirholtz
Kevin Pucetas

Man, and is this a BIG deal. I don't think so but if it is to you so be it.:shakehead:

[McCovey]

Four AA Connecticut Defenders have been named to the Eastern League All-Star team! Congrats to the four players. :beerbang:


2009 Defenders All-Stars
07/01/2009 2:45 PM ET

NORWICH, CT-The 2009 Eastern League All Star team has been announced and your hometown Connecticut Defenders will have four representatives in Bond, Martinez-Esteve, Paterson and Bumgarner. "I am very proud of our players and their accomplishments," said Defenders Manager Steve Decker. "They have all worked hard to receive this opportunity and I'm happy they will represent the Connecticut Defenders and the San Francisco Giants organizations proudly at the All Star game."

Brock Bond, the Defenders second baseman earns his first All Star nod since being signed by the Giants in 2007 out of the University of Missouri. The St. Louis native has climbed his average to a team leading .326 over 63 games posting his best performance on June 19 versus Altoona when he went 5 for 5 with a triple and three runs scored. Bond currently holds the longest active on-base streak in all of MLB & Minor League Baseball at 45 games as well as delivered an 11 game hitting streak during the stretch. He has hit safely in 15 out his last 16 games.

Eddy Martinez-Esteve came into Spring Training twenty pounds lighter and the "new" Eddy has earned his third trip to the All Star team since 2005 when he was named to the CAL Mid and Post season teams. An outfielder, Martinez-Esteve has been a steady contributor to the Northern Division leaders ranking second on the team in doubles (20) and RBI (41) while compiling a .316 batting average. The six year veteran out of Miami, FL showed his leadership in a game on June 24 vs. Portland when he hit the game winning walk-off RBI single to lift the Defenders to a 3-2 win and eventual series victory over the Sea Dogs.

Joe Paterson has been a nightmare for left-handed batters all season long out of the bullpen therefore earning his first All Star appearance. The McMinnville, OR native has posted a (2-2) record and 1.53 ERA in a team leading 31 appearances and has held opponents to a dismal .190 batting average against. More impressive is his .063 BAA and 31 strikeouts versus southpaws.

Madison Bumgarner, the Giants #1 rated prospect according to Baseball America, received the promotion to Double-A on May 9 and since then has been a stud. The 19 year old from Hudson, NC earns his second All Star team honor which adds to his already stellar list of accomplishments.

Bumgarner holds a (5-1) record, tied for second most wins on the team and has a 1.96 ERA which is tops among starters. The Portland Sea Dogs have been on the other side of Bumgarner's top achievements this year setting a season high with 10 strikeouts (May 23) as well as tying a career high with 8 innings allowing one run en route to his fifth win of the season in his last start (June 25).

The 2009 Eastern League All Star Game is Wednesday, July 15 at Samuel J. Plumeri Sr. Field at Mercer County Waterfront Park in Trenton, NJ.

[McCovey]

John Bowker and Kevin Pucetas have been named PCL All-Stars. Congrats to the both of them! :beerbang:


Bowker, Pucetas Named Pacifc Coast League All-Stars

07/01/2009 7:55 PM ET
Fresno Grizzlies

FRESNO, CA - The Pacific Coast League announced this afternoon that John Bowker and Kevin Pucetas will represent the Fresno Grizzlies on the PCL All-Star Team. Bowker, Pucetas, and their fellow PCL All-Stars will take the field against the best of the International League in the 2009 Triple-A All Star Game on July 15th at PGE Park, home of the Portland Beavers. The game will be televised nationally on ESPN2 with the first pitch scheduled for 7:05pm PDT.

The 2009 Pacific League All-Star squad is made up of 13 elected players who have received the most votes from ballots submitted by clubs' field managers and general managers (1/3), members of the media (1/3), and online fan voting (1/3). The elected players are joined by 15 additional All-Stars selected by the Pacific Coast League office. All sixteen PCL clubs will be sending at least one representative to Portland.


Fresno Grizzlies' outfielder John Bowker was the leading vote getter from field managers and general managers, and members of the media, earning him a starting role in this year's All-Star game. In his fifth season in professional baseball, Bowker makes the Triple-A All-Star squad in his first full season in the league, pacing the Grizzlies offense in every major statistical category. The left-handed slugger is among the league leaders in several offensive columns, as the Long Beach State product is second in the PCL in batting average (.359), fifth in hits (93), first in on-base percentage (.460), third in runs scored (58), and third in slugging (.637).

Bowker was named PCL Hitter of the Week in back-to-back weeks on May 25th and June 7th, and is coming off a month of June where he batted .392, with 12 home runs - a new Grizzlies Franchise record for homers in one month - and 29 RBI. He has racked up 16 home runs and 37 extra-base hits on the season.

Right-hander Kevin Pucetas has been the anchor on the Fresno pitching staff, and one of the most commanding hurlers in the PCL this season. The South Carolina native, who was selected by the San Francisco Giants in the 17th round of the 2006 First Year Player Draft out of Limestone College, has a league leading eight wins (tied with two others), a 3.17 ERA (5th in PCL), and has tossed the second most innings in the PCL (96.2). Pucetas has only improved as the season has progressed, going 3-1 in June with a 2.68 ERA in six starts, and an impressive 5-0 record and 1.02 ERA on the road this season. This will be the third minor league All-Star selection for the righty, as he has posted dominating numbers at each level thus far.

The PCL is looking for its second consecutive Triple-A All-Star game victory, after winning the contest by a score of 6-5 in the 2008 All-Star game hosted in Louisville, Kentucky. This will be the 12th showdown under the current IL vs. PCL format, with the PCL having a one game edge in the record books at 6-5. The winning League will have its champion play as the home team in the Triple-A Championship Game - the Bricktown Showdown - in Oklahoma City this September.

[SF Kid]

We have to wait until September to see Bumgarner in SF?

[McCovey]

We have to wait until September to see Bumgarner in SF?

He's still only 19 years old. From what I've read the Giants want him to work more on his secondary pitches. We may see him in Spetember, though.

[McCovey]

This is from June 23th. Posey is about to be promoted. And apparently, Sabean is leaning towards AAA Fresno. Sabean also said Posey will NOT play in San Francisco this season but Madison Bumgarner might.


Posey To AAA, Bumgarner To Majors?

Giants General Manager Brian Sabean has confirmed that Buster Posey will soon be promoted from Class-A San Jose, according to Jeff Fletcher (http://baybridgebaseball.com/2009/06/posey-and-bumgarner-coming-soon/#more-1161) and Henry Schulman (http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/giants/indexn?blogid=22). Posey, last year's number-one draft pick, received a franchise-record $6.5 million signing bonus.

According to Sabean, the Giants wanted Posey to remain in A-ball for the entire first half of the season to work on his catching skills. The first half concluded on Sunday, with San Jose winning a record fifth-straight title.Andrew Baggarly (http://blogs.mercurynews.com/extrabaggs/2009/06/22/postgame-notes-evaluating-sanchez-posey-moving-up-soon-winn-plays-for-audience-of-one/#more-1532) reports that the Giants laid out this plan for Posey back in Spring Training.

Now, says Sabean, Posey needs to catch higher-level pitchers to take the next step towards the majors. The GM noted that a jump to AAA would allow Posey to improve faster. In addition, the starting catcher in AA would lose his job to Posey if Buster moved up only one level. If Buster went to AAA immediately, both catchers could develop at their own paces.

Posey has definitely not disappointed in his first extended action in the minors, hitting 20 doubles and 11 home runs in the first half. His batting average is a steady .328, while his OPS is .970, about the same as his sophomore season at Florida State.

Extremely encouraging is Posey's 36 walks and only 39 strikeouts. Angel Villalona has nine walks and 58 K's, while Roger Kieschnick's totals are 12 and 68. Conner Gillaspe, the best contact hitter on the team, has more walks than strike-outs, but has only one home run.

Despite the possibility of a rapid promotion, Posey will not reach the majors this season. However, Fletcher and Baggerly note that Madison Bumgarner is due for a promotion,and that Sabean mentioned him "skipping a level."

This wording could be interpreted as meaning that Madison would be skipping AAA altogether. Sabean noted that, but it might make more sense to have a Bumgarner-Posey battery start in the minors before promoting both of them in early 2010. And Sabean noted that, while Madison's fastball was major-league quality, his secondary pitches need work.

Whether or not Bumgarner or Posey skip levels of minor league ball, they will be one step closer to the majors, the goal for Giants players, management, and fans alike.

[McCovey]

A good update on the Giants top prospects.


San Francisco Giants June Prospect Report: Buster Posey On the Move to Triple-A?

by Danny Penza (http://bleacherreport.com/users/22511-Danny-Penza)
Bleacher Report

Six weeks after the San Francisco Giants’ top two pitching prospects got a somewhat-anticipated promotion, the other part of the highly touted battery of the future is reportedly getting moved up as well.

It may not be in the same fashion as his magical mystery tour from a year ago after he received a $6.2 million bonus, but uber-prospect Buster Posey seems to be on the move again.

While he did put up astronomical numbers at Florida State en route to winning the Golden Spikes Award last year, his numbers with San Jose are pretty impressive when you consider he only played a handful of games after he signed.

An offensive stat line that includes a .321 batting average, 11 home runs, 48 RBI, and a .956 OPS means you’re a lock to be a Cal League All-Star and that’s what Posey did in the first half of the 2009 season.

Not too shabby.

Because of his extreme mashing of California League pitching for the first three months of the season, leading the little Giants of San Jose to another first-half title, Posey is now on his way to make Pacific Coast League pitchers his next victim.

But as we heard with Posey, we knew he could hit, it’s the progress he made behind the plate calling games and learning the nuances of being an everyday catcher in professional baseball that is starting to impress.

Giants General Manager Brian Sabean and the rest of the player development staff wouldn’t promote Posey if they didn’t feel he was excelling in both aspects and they certainly wouldn’t be planning on him skipping Double-A and going right to Fresno.

However, the anticipated promotion might be delayed. After Posey was recently hit in the head with a pitch, the Grizzlies might have to wait a little bit longer before they see him in the everyday lineup.

There reportedly aren’t any serious problems with the aftermath of the knock to the head, but with Posey being the biggest and the closest big-time prospect to making an impact with the big club in the system, there’s obvious reason to be precautious.

He may have missed the final four games to close out the month of June, but it’s only a matter of time before Posey gets the long-awaited promotion to Triple-A Fresno.

Posey is making a B-line right for AT&T Park with an anticipated arrival date of Spring 2010.


The “Don’t Forget About Me” Club in San Jose

With all the attention that Posey gets, and it’s not like he has done anything to not garner the kind of pub he gets, it’s sometimes easy to forget that the other bats in the middle of the order are quite good as well.

The biggest bat in the Little Giants’ lineup this season not named Buster Posey has to be outfielder Thomas Neal, who came into the season as the organization’s No. 23 ranked prospect, according to Baseball America.

Neal’s numbers speak for themselves: A .345 average, 22 doubles, 13 HR, 47 RBI, and a 1.029 OPS in 70 games at San Jose.

And we thought Posey had serious power numbers.

Neal is teamed in the outfield with Giants’ No. 14 prospect and third-round pick, Roger Kieschnick. His 15 home runs ranks him fifth in the Cal League, 58 RBI ranks him third, and his .304 average and .879 OPS isn’t anything to slouch at.

Then there is of course, 18-year-old first baseman Angel Villalona.

Big V has been struggling at the beginning of the second half schedule with his average sitting at .271 but his power numbers are still good. His nine home runs put him fourth on the team, which shows the kind of depth the lineup has.

Just remember though, he’s still developing his game at 18 years of age and will usually be the youngest player at every level he plays at.

However, there are also pitchers having good seasons down in Silicon Valley, including the forgotten arm in the top ten rankings.

Scott Barnes, the Giants’ No. 9 ranked prospect, has become the most-heralded pitcher in the rotation since the departure of Madison Bumgarner and Tim Alderson in mid-May.

Barnes’ stats are very good for a pitcher in his first-full season as a professional. His 3.44 ERA ranks him sixth in the Cal League

Fellow lefty Clayton Tanner, the No. 20 ranked prospect, has had an equally effective 2009, going 6-2 and ranks just ahead of Barnes with a 3.16 ERA.

The Same Old Song and Dance for Bumgarner, Alderson, and Sosa

As the months go on, it’s starting to make this seem like a broken record with all the praise that has been given to them throughout the course of the 2009 season so far.

Bumgarner has continued to keep rolling along, racking up wins and mowing down hitters on the season with ease.

In just eight outings, seven starts, at Double-A Connecticut, Bumgarner has been simply fantastic.

You want to know about how dominant he’s been? Just those seven starts have earned him Eastern League All-Star status and a spot on the United States roster for the XM Futures Game in St. Louis. Not a bad month of July planned for Mad Bum.

Alderson has also been very good since the mid-May promotion, going 4-1 with a 2.36 ERA and 1.13 WHIP. His control has been exceptional, walking just nine batters in nine starts spanning 49.2 innings.

Completing the talented threesome is 23-year-old right-hander Henry Sosa.

After a frustrating 2008 filled with injuries and inconsistencies, it seems the flame-throwing Dominican is back at it. His 2.36 ERA ranks him fourth in the Eastern League, and he has yet to lose a game on the year, going 6-0 in 14 starts.

Not a bad trident the Defenders can roll out, isn’t it?
Quick Hits From Around the Giants Minor League System

It may be a year early, but last year’s big-money international signing has hit the United States.

Rafael Rodriguez, who signed for $2.55 million last July, has played in just four games for the Giants Arizona Rookie League affiliate, hitting .125 in just 16 at-bats.

It’s no reason to frown about because as we know during the early goings of a season, his average could go from .125 to over .300 with just a couple of good games back-to-back.

The Giants are handling Rodriguez much like they handled Villalona, which has turned out to be quite effective looking at how Big V has progressed in the two years since he signed out of the Dominican.

Also playing for the AZL affiliate is this year’s 2009 third-round pick, third baseman Chris Dominguez.

The two-time Player of the Year and 2009 First Team All-American out of Louisville clubbed 25 home runs, finished 82 RBI and stolen bases (19-of-25) and hit .345 overall.

He’s expected to see time at Class A Short-Season Salem-Keizer when the season starts this month.

-

This season hasn’t been much to smile about for two members of the San Jose Giants infield.

No. 5 ranked prospect, second baseman Nick Noonan, has been in what seems like a six-week funk, seeing his average drop down to .249. While Noonan has knocked in 36 runs, he has only hit three home runs, 12 doubles, and only sports a .317 OBP.

Fellow infielder, third baseman Conor Gillaspie, hasn’t done much to show critics that he can hit for the kind of power people expect from players at the hot corner.

In fact, he hasn’t hit for much power at all in 2009.

In 71 games, Gillaspie has only hit one home run and driven in 31 to go with 16 doubles. While he has made very good contact (only 39 strikeouts in 254 at-bats), the severe lack of power is something that might bring a position change in the future.

-

He may not officially be a prospect anymore after playing 111 games with the Giants last season, but you can’t ignore what John Bowker is doing down in Fresno right now.

He smacked a club-record 12 homers in the month of June while hitting .392 during that same span. On the season, Bowker’s hitting .359 with 16 home runs and 58 RBI. He’s also added 18 doubles and 10 stolen bases.

However, don’t expect Bowker to be in the big leagues any time soon with the way the Giants roster currently is. Sabean & Crew have made it clear that they will bring him up when consistent playing time is available.

The decision to keep Bowker at Triple-A does make sense, especially when he’s hitting the ball like he is and guaranteed time in the majors isn’t exactly a lock right now. Keep him in the minors, have him rake, then bring him up when the Grizzlies’ season is over and the rosters expand in September.

It’s certainly something Pacific Coast League pitchers don’t want to hear.

[McCovey]

from the bleacher report blog.


The Future of Baseball: The San Francisco Giants' Rotation

by Kyle Vos (http://bleacherreport.com/users/116839-Kyle-Vos)

Heading into this season, pretty much everyone would have put the San Francisco Giants near the bottom of the standings. A year removed from a 90-loss season, the only noteworthy addition the team made was the signing of 45-year old starting pitcher Randy Johnson.

Fast forward to the All-Star break, and the Giants are a surprising 10 games over .500 with a two game lead in the Wild Card race. The somewhat premature emergence of the portly power hitting Pablo Sandoval has helped, but the main reason this Giants team is succeeding is their pitching staff.

With a 3.49 ERA, San Francisco's starting rotation has the lowest ERA in baseball. That ERA is a fourth of a point better than Atlanta, the team in second place, and nearly a full point better than the major league average.

But here's the kicker: The rotation is only going to get better.

The Giants already boast arguably the top 1-2 punch in baseball with Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain. Lincecum, the 2008 NL Cy Young award winner, has somehow improved upon last year's spectacular season by walking nearly a full batter less per nine innings and lowering his ERA from 2.62 to 2.33.

"The Franchise" has overshadowed No. 2 Matt Cain, who is quietly having almost as impressive of a year. The former hard luck loser has already won 10 games in 18 starts this year after winning just 15 in 66 combined starts between 2007 and 2008.

Cain had always been a good pitcher though, recording 3.75 and 3.65 ERAs the past two years, respectively. But this year, he has taken a large step forward and lowered his ERA to a Lincecum-like 2.38. While it's unlikely that number will stay that low, he is a very good No. 2 starter without question.

However, what will set this rotation apart from the rest of the league is what is yet to come. Veteran pitchers Barry Zito and Randy Johnson will soon be replaced by two of the best prospects baseball has to offer.

Those two prospects are the left-handed Madison Bumgarner, and towering right-handed Tim Alderson. Both of whom the Giants selected in the first round of the 2007 draft.

At just 19 years old, Bumgarner has already reached and dominated AA with a 1.74 ERA through nine starts this year. He has limited opponents to a .226 average or less at all three levels he has been to, and more importantly, has limited his walks as well.

His hype is not all production either. At 6'4" 215 lbs, he is well built and has the body to maintain the mid-90s heat he throws. Bumgarner is widely considered the best pitching prospect and one of the best overall prospects, now that Tommy Hanson has elevated to the major leagues.

Alderson is not far behind Bumgarner, ranking around the top 25 of all prospects in baseball. Alderson, 6'7", might not be the flamethrower you might imagine given his size, but he has shown reason to believe he will be a very good starter at the major league level.

With a low to mid 90s fastball, Alderson fires strikes and has the complementary pitches to get batters out without mowing them down. Only a year older than Bumgarner, Alderson is also in AA this year and is pitching well (2.97 ERA).

To finish it off, we cannot forget about the man who just took the league by storm with his no-hitter, Jonathan Sanchez. Sanchez is a very talented lefty with a major walk problem. Hopefully for the Giants, his outing on Friday was a sign of things to come.

Sanchez, 26 years old, still has a lot of time to get a handle on his control. Plus, it usually takes left-handed pitchers longer to develop than their right-handed counterparts (just do not tell Bumgarner that). His ability to strike batters out is very promising, as he has maintained over a strikeout per inning throughout his first 328 innings in the majors.

What is most impressive about what San Francisco has done is that these guys are all home grown. The Giants drafted Lincecum, Cain, Alderson and Bumgarner all in the first round, and they found Sanchez in the 27th.

The youth of this potential rotation is unreal, with none of them exceeding 26 years old. This rotation has the potential to go down as one of the best in baseball history, and we could see it together within the next year.

For baseball's sake, I hope the Giants are able to keep these guys together and avoid trading one of them for a hitter. If they can, this unit should be regarded as highly as those Maddux, Smoltz and Glavine led rotations the Braves had in the 1990s.

Three years ago, everyone would have laughed at this thought, but the Giants hold the key to the next decade.

[Bear]

And I believe that this guy has it right. But we still need a hitter to make it all come together and that maybe costly.:o

[McCovey]

With Posey, Neal, and Kieschnick coming through the system will have plenty of good hitters.

[Bear]

With Posey, Neal, and Kieschnick coming through the system will have plenty of good hitters.

Seeing this on the major league level is believing. Hype is cheap, I need to see results.;)

[McCovey]

Seeing this on the major league level is believing. Hype is cheap, I need to see results.;)
They are coming soon. I epxct all three to be in spring training 2010.

[Bear]

07/14/09
By Danny Wild
MLB.com

Catcher skips a level, joins Fresno on Thursday

Giants prospect Buster Posey was promoted to Triple-A Fresno on Tuesday, ending weeks of speculation surrounding the Minors' top catcher.

Posey, 22, will make his Triple-A debut on Thursday against Colorado Springs when the Grizzlies return from the Triple-A All-Star break.

The Florida State product was San Francisco's first-round pick in the 2008 Draft and has excelled this season with Class A Advanced San Jose, where he was hitting .326 with 13 homers and 58 RBIs in 80 games for the Giants. He was 15-for-37 (.405) with 10 RBIs and 12 runs in his last 10 games for San Jose.

Posey had been rumored to skip Double-A Connecticut and join Fresno ever since the Giants promoted three other top prospects to the Defenders, pitchers Madison Bumgarner and Tim Alderson and shortstop Brandon Crawford.

Posey had missed some games in late June after getting hit in the head with a pitch, but has shown no ill effects since his return, batting .357 in a dozen games this month.

The Georgia native played at two levels in the Giants' system last summer. He's currently ranked as the No. 19 prospect in the Minors by MLB.com.

It seems to me that 2010 is the MLB target for Posey.

[McCovey]

Hot dang! It's about time! I agree with Bear. Posey will part of the SF Giants in 2010! Warning to the entire National League!

Now, it's time for Thomas Neal to move on up as well!

[SF Kid]

Cool beans!

[Bear]

Cool beans!


WTF?:wtf::wtf1::wtf::wtf1::wtf::wtf1:

[SF Kid]

STFU. Dumb Bear.

[McCovey]

So now that Buster Posey is at AAA Fresno I wonder if he'll get a September call up? :beerbang:

[WillTheThrill]

So now that Buster Posey is at AAA Fresno I wonder if he'll get a September call up? :beerbang:

Assuming he continues to hit the cover off the ball... I'd be AMAZED if he doesn't. :)

.

[McCovey]

Assuming he continues to hit the cover off the ball... I'd be AMAZED if he doesn't. :)

.
Yes, I hope he gets a few AB's in San Francisco.

[Bear]

Yes, I hope he gets a few AB's in San Francisco.

He will get his at bats alright, but I am not sure it will be this September.:confused:

[McCovey]

A MadBum article. Enjoy! :awesomework.gif


Giants' Bumgarner overcomes walks
07/16/2009 11:17 PM ETBy John Torenli / Special to MLB.com

Most Minor League pitchers would be satisfied after tossing 5 1/3 scoreless innings of one-hit ball.

Not Madison Bumgarner.

"It was just one of those nights where I didn't quite have it," the heralded Giants' pitching prospect said Monday after issuing a season-high four walks in the Connecticut Defenders' 1-0 loss to the New Hampshire Fisher Cats at Merchantsauto.com Stadium.

"I just tried to tough it out and stay in there as long as I could."
Bumgarner, who whittled his ERA down to 1.59 through 11 Eastern League outings, entered the contest with a combined record of 9-2 with a 1.66 ERA in 15 appearances between Class A Advanced San Jose and Connecticut this year.

Though he wasn't exactly enamored with his latest performance, San Francisco's first-round pick in the 2007 First-Year Player Draft has yielded only two earned runs over 28 1/3 frames in his last five outings.

Still, he admitted that he was not at his sharpest against the Fisher Cats, who were baffled by the 19-year-old southpaw until Todd Donovan beat out an infield single leading off the sixth. Bumgarner struck out Darin Mastroianni before Connecticut manager Steve Decker pulled him at approximately 90 pitches.

"A lot of times you want to do more [when you're struggling with your control], but what you really have to do is back off a little bit," the All-Star Futures Game selection said.

"That's probably the toughest thing to learn. Trying not to overthrow."
Bumgarner, who earned MLB.com's Class A Starting Pitcher of the Year award last year after going 15-3 with a 1.46 ERA in 24 starts for Augusta, also uncorked a wild pitch and hit a batter. But he overcame his brief bouts with wildness by inducing a double-play grounder in the second and picking off a baserunner in the fifth.

With San Francisco starters Randy Johnson and Matt Cain sidelined with injuries, Bumgarner's name has surfaced as a possible replacement in the Giants' rotation. But the 6-foot-4, 215-pound North Carolina native isn't letting the rumors affect his approach.

"It would be very easy to," Bumgarner said. "I try not to think about it. Whenever they think I'm ready, I'd love to do my part to help them win. I try not to get distracted by it."

As for working with a limited pitch count, Bumgarner again ceded to the organization's decision-making.

"[The Giants] have my best interests in mind," he said. "Sometimes I'd like to go a little longer, but it doesn't matter what happens here. They're trying to get me ready for the big leagues."

[McCovey]

MadBum pitches tonight which will be his 11th start at AA Connecticut. So far at Connecticut he is 6-1 W-L, 1.59 ERA, 48 K, 20 BB, 1 CG, .206 BAA. Combined with his San Jose stats, for the season MadBum is 9-2, 1.56 ERA, 71 K, 24 BB, .210 BAA in 86.2 IP. I wonder when the Giants plan to promote him to AAA Fresno? He certainly deserves it. I think it should be soon. I wonder if he's get a real shot at a roster spot next spring training. He looks like he is getting really close to being ready for the majors.

[Bear]

A MadBum article. Enjoy! :awesomework.gif

I can't wait for this guy. If he is half as good as he looks the Giants will be on their way. :beerbang:

[McCovey]

I can't wait for this guy. If he is half as good as he looks the Giants will be on their way. :beerbang:
Check this out. In MadBum's minor league career which started just last year.

39 GS, 228.1 IP, 25-4 W-L, 1.50 ERA, 235 K, 45 BB, 176 H, 5 HR, .968 WHIP.

WOW! Just five HR's allowed?! :bowdone:

Oh, and doesn't turn 20 until next month. :eek:

[McCovey]

I'm listening to the Connecticut Defender's game over the Internet right now. And Madison Bumgarner just hit a grand slam! The Defenders now lead 4-1! :D