I asked you a while back which of the proposed stadium renovations were the most exciting, and here's how the responses came in:
Field Turf - 5 (15%)
New Team Store - 3 (9%)
Stage/Splash Pad/Fire Pit in Outfield - 2 (6%)
360-degree concourse - 11 (34%)
Updated picnic and group areas - 1 (3%)
State-of-the-art score/video board - 8 (25%)
Other - 2 (6%)
I thought the new scoreboard/videoboard would win, but I'm pleasantly surprised that the 360-degree concourse came out on top. I think this is a huge piece to making the Cove a better place by allowing fans the opportunity to walk entirely around the stadium, and check out all the new areas of the ballpark. It just opens up the stadium so much more and gives it a better feel.
A new poll is on the right.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Former Hawks Pitcher Traded to Pittsburgh
Cesar Valdez, a 2007 Silver Hawks pitcher, was traded today to the Pittsburgh Pirates as the player to be named later in the Zach Duke deal.
Valdez was 7-10 with South Bend in '07, but had an impressive 3.41 ERA and 106 strikeouts. He appeared in nine games with the Diamondbacks in 2010 -- his first appearances in the Majors.
Valdez was 7-10 with South Bend in '07, but had an impressive 3.41 ERA and 106 strikeouts. He appeared in nine games with the Diamondbacks in 2010 -- his first appearances in the Majors.
Busy, Busy, Busy
Sorry that it's been almost two days since I last posted. Things have been quite hectic the last few days.
To fill you in, here's a bunch of links for you:
-The Arizona Diamondbacks continued to be major players at the Winter Meetings, resigning Mike Hampton yesterday and then drafting a player in the Rule 5 Draft this morning.
-Reaction on the Diamondbacks moves can be found here and here.
-I gave a speech on behalf of the Silver Hawks to a career day at West Side Middle School in Elkhart yesterday morning. If you want to book a Silver Hawks speaker for your school, group, or business, go here.
-I also joined Swoop yesterday at the University Park Mall. We were guests of Sunny 101.5 FM as part of their Giving Trees promotion. Please stop by their tables and vote for your favorite tree -- all proceeds to to charity.
-Finally, we are still waiting on the Diamondbacks to announce the field staff for their Minor League affiliates. I think it's a safe bet that Mark Haley is returning, but we don't know the rest of the staff as of yet. Obviously, as soon as we know something, the information will be on http://www.silverhawks.com/.
To fill you in, here's a bunch of links for you:
-The Arizona Diamondbacks continued to be major players at the Winter Meetings, resigning Mike Hampton yesterday and then drafting a player in the Rule 5 Draft this morning.
-Reaction on the Diamondbacks moves can be found here and here.
-I gave a speech on behalf of the Silver Hawks to a career day at West Side Middle School in Elkhart yesterday morning. If you want to book a Silver Hawks speaker for your school, group, or business, go here.
-I also joined Swoop yesterday at the University Park Mall. We were guests of Sunny 101.5 FM as part of their Giving Trees promotion. Please stop by their tables and vote for your favorite tree -- all proceeds to to charity.
-Finally, we are still waiting on the Diamondbacks to announce the field staff for their Minor League affiliates. I think it's a safe bet that Mark Haley is returning, but we don't know the rest of the staff as of yet. Obviously, as soon as we know something, the information will be on http://www.silverhawks.com/.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
2011 Midwest League Field Staffs
Within the last day, a bunch of teams have announced their field staffs for 2011, so I figured now was a good time to catch up on the entire league in case I missed anyone else. We'll go alphabetically through the list of teams (links provided where available)...
Beloit Snappers (same as last year)
Manager - Nelson Prada
Pitching Coach - Gary Lucas
Hitting Coach - Tommy Watkins
Bowling Green Hot Rods - Not yet announced
Burlington Bees (Kane County's staff from 2010 due to affiliation change)
Manager - Aaron Nieckula
Pitching Coach - Jimmy Escalante
Hitting Coach - Haas Pratt
Cedar Rapids Kernels
Manager - Brent Del Chiaro (was hitting coach last two years)
Pitching Coach - Trevor Wilson
Hitting Coach - Mike Elyward
Clinton LumberKings
Manager - Eddie Menchaca
Pitching Coach - Rich Dorman
Hitting Coach - Terry Pollreisz
Dayton Dragons
Manager - Delino DeShields (former big league star)
Pitching Coach - Tony Fossas
Hitting Coach - Alex Pelaez
Fort Wayne TinCaps
Manager - Shawn Wooten
Pitching Coach - Willie Blair
Hitting Coach - Kory DeHaan
Great Lakes Loons - Not yet announced
Kane County Cougars
Manager - Vance Wilson
Pitching Coach - Jim Brower
Hitting Coach - Damon Hollins
Lake County Captains
Manager - Ted Kubiak
Pitching Coach - Jeff Harris
Hitting Coach - Jim Rickon
Lansing Lugnuts
Manager - Mike Redmond
Pitching Coach - Vince Horsman
Hitting Coach - John Tamargo, Jr.
Peoria Chiefs - Not yet announced
Quad Cities River Bandits (same as last year)
Manager - Johnny Rodriguez
Pitching Coach - Tim Leveque
Hitting Coach - Joe Kruzel
South Bend Silver Hawks - Not yet announced
West Michigan Whitecaps
Manager - Ernie Young
Pitching Coach - Mark Johnson
Hitting Coach - Ben Oglivie
Wisconsin Timber Rattlers - Not yet announced
Beloit Snappers (same as last year)
Manager - Nelson Prada
Pitching Coach - Gary Lucas
Hitting Coach - Tommy Watkins
Bowling Green Hot Rods - Not yet announced
Burlington Bees (Kane County's staff from 2010 due to affiliation change)
Manager - Aaron Nieckula
Pitching Coach - Jimmy Escalante
Hitting Coach - Haas Pratt
Cedar Rapids Kernels
Manager - Brent Del Chiaro (was hitting coach last two years)
Pitching Coach - Trevor Wilson
Hitting Coach - Mike Elyward
Clinton LumberKings
Manager - Eddie Menchaca
Pitching Coach - Rich Dorman
Hitting Coach - Terry Pollreisz
Dayton Dragons
Manager - Delino DeShields (former big league star)
Pitching Coach - Tony Fossas
Hitting Coach - Alex Pelaez
Fort Wayne TinCaps
Manager - Shawn Wooten
Pitching Coach - Willie Blair
Hitting Coach - Kory DeHaan
Great Lakes Loons - Not yet announced
Kane County Cougars
Manager - Vance Wilson
Pitching Coach - Jim Brower
Hitting Coach - Damon Hollins
Lake County Captains
Manager - Ted Kubiak
Pitching Coach - Jeff Harris
Hitting Coach - Jim Rickon
Lansing Lugnuts
Manager - Mike Redmond
Pitching Coach - Vince Horsman
Hitting Coach - John Tamargo, Jr.
Peoria Chiefs - Not yet announced
Quad Cities River Bandits (same as last year)
Manager - Johnny Rodriguez
Pitching Coach - Tim Leveque
Hitting Coach - Joe Kruzel
South Bend Silver Hawks - Not yet announced
West Michigan Whitecaps
Manager - Ernie Young
Pitching Coach - Mark Johnson
Hitting Coach - Ben Oglivie
Wisconsin Timber Rattlers - Not yet announced
Diamondbacks Sign Closer
In addition to trading Mark Reynolds and signing Melvin Mora that I wrote about yesterday, Arizona made another big splash at the Winter Meetings later yesterday evening.
News broke late that Arizona signed closer J.J. Putz to a two-year deal, adding more help to what was a horrible bullpen in 2010.
One thing that everyone is still wondering about though is whether the Diamondbacks will trade Justin Upton -- a rumor that has been picking up steam lately.
Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic has some thoughts on all the deals on his blog, but this quote about Upton from GM Kevin Towers jumped out at me:
On the likelihood of a Justin Upton trade: “With Upton, if everything comes together, it's probably less likely we would end up moving him. We knew going into that exercise it was going to take an awful lot to make a trade. To trade a young player who is 23 years old who is a tool shed, who does pretty much everything and I think is only going to get better in time. But if someone was willing to overpay and we were able to fill multiple holes. We’re not one player away; we’re several players away from being good in a competitive division. I would say we’ll have a pretty good idea when we leave here on Thursday and I would say that it's highly unlikely that Upton leaves the desert.”
News broke late that Arizona signed closer J.J. Putz to a two-year deal, adding more help to what was a horrible bullpen in 2010.
One thing that everyone is still wondering about though is whether the Diamondbacks will trade Justin Upton -- a rumor that has been picking up steam lately.
Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic has some thoughts on all the deals on his blog, but this quote about Upton from GM Kevin Towers jumped out at me:
On the likelihood of a Justin Upton trade: “With Upton, if everything comes together, it's probably less likely we would end up moving him. We knew going into that exercise it was going to take an awful lot to make a trade. To trade a young player who is 23 years old who is a tool shed, who does pretty much everything and I think is only going to get better in time. But if someone was willing to overpay and we were able to fill multiple holes. We’re not one player away; we’re several players away from being good in a competitive division. I would say we’ll have a pretty good idea when we leave here on Thursday and I would say that it's highly unlikely that Upton leaves the desert.”
Monday, December 6, 2010
Former Silver Hawks Star Traded
Well, we knew the Diamondbacks would be active at the Winter Meetings, and it took all of half a day for them to make a splash.
Today, former Silver Hawks infielder Mark Reynolds was traded to the Baltimore Orioles for a couple of prospects. Before you ask, the answer is no, neither of the prospects will appear in South Bend because they both already have MLB experience.
Arizona also signed Melvin Mora to a contract. Mora is 38 years old, but it's a low-risk signing for GM Kevin Towers to fill the vacated third base hole left by Mark Reynolds.
I'm not qualified to analyze deals that the Diamondbacks make, but Steve Gilbert of mlb.com and Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic certainly have more experience in that area. Click the links to view their blogs.
Today, former Silver Hawks infielder Mark Reynolds was traded to the Baltimore Orioles for a couple of prospects. Before you ask, the answer is no, neither of the prospects will appear in South Bend because they both already have MLB experience.
Arizona also signed Melvin Mora to a contract. Mora is 38 years old, but it's a low-risk signing for GM Kevin Towers to fill the vacated third base hole left by Mark Reynolds.
I'm not qualified to analyze deals that the Diamondbacks make, but Steve Gilbert of mlb.com and Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic certainly have more experience in that area. Click the links to view their blogs.
Baseball Winter Meetings
Unfortunately, I am not at the Baseball Winter Meetings in Orlando this week. Instead, I'm sitting in my office at Coveleski Stadium watching the snow fall. I'm also insanely jealous of everyone who is in Orlando.
The Baseball Winter Meetings are a time for many front office personnel in both the majors and minors to get together and well, have meetings. Various teams have meetings for all of their employees, there are sessions for individual job functions (media relations sessions, gm sessions, etc.), and many awards are handed out to organizations.
However, my favorite part of the Winter Meetings when I've been there has been the common area in the lobby of whatever hotel is hosting the event. It's not unusual to see a notable reporter such as Jayson Stark or Peter Gammons chatting up a MLB GM or even a player as you walk from one end of the hotel to the other.
The Winter Meetings also will be where many trades and free agent signings happen (or if they don't happen there, you can bet the conversations started in Orlando). I've told you this before, but the best place to follow all the rumors is http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/. They'll be working overtime this week, and it's an interesting collection of stories and links.
I'm not going to post all the rumors I read or see, but if anything becomes official from the Diamondbacks, I will let you know on this blog.
The Baseball Winter Meetings are a time for many front office personnel in both the majors and minors to get together and well, have meetings. Various teams have meetings for all of their employees, there are sessions for individual job functions (media relations sessions, gm sessions, etc.), and many awards are handed out to organizations.
However, my favorite part of the Winter Meetings when I've been there has been the common area in the lobby of whatever hotel is hosting the event. It's not unusual to see a notable reporter such as Jayson Stark or Peter Gammons chatting up a MLB GM or even a player as you walk from one end of the hotel to the other.
The Winter Meetings also will be where many trades and free agent signings happen (or if they don't happen there, you can bet the conversations started in Orlando). I've told you this before, but the best place to follow all the rumors is http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/. They'll be working overtime this week, and it's an interesting collection of stories and links.
I'm not going to post all the rumors I read or see, but if anything becomes official from the Diamondbacks, I will let you know on this blog.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Sad News from Chicago
I was sad to hear about the passing of Ron Santo, legendary Cubs player and broadcaster.
As a player, Santo was a borderline Hall-of-Famer. I'm not going to start that debate, so let's just leave it at he was a tremendous ballplayer. Unfortunately, he never got to play in a postseason. In fact, Santo played in the fifth most amount of games in baseball history without making a postseason appearance.
As a broadcaster, Santo was the epitome of what you learn NOT to do in broadcasting school. Shouting over the play-by-play guy, moaning, cheering, and the general flood of emotions at the simplest of plays is something that you learn to keep in check over time.
Yet, Ron Santo got away with it. He was allowed to do all of those things because he wasn't just a former Cubs player or the Cubs announcer. He was bigger than all of that. He was the voice of the fans.
I am not much of a Cubs fan and have said many times that "Pat Hughes is a saint for putting up with Ron Santo for all those years." Even still, I can appreciate an iconic figure and Ron Santo certainly was that and more to Cubs fans.
The Cubs family has lost a legendary member, and the broadcasting fraternity has lost a one-of-a-kind personality. Ron Santo will be missed.
As a player, Santo was a borderline Hall-of-Famer. I'm not going to start that debate, so let's just leave it at he was a tremendous ballplayer. Unfortunately, he never got to play in a postseason. In fact, Santo played in the fifth most amount of games in baseball history without making a postseason appearance.
As a broadcaster, Santo was the epitome of what you learn NOT to do in broadcasting school. Shouting over the play-by-play guy, moaning, cheering, and the general flood of emotions at the simplest of plays is something that you learn to keep in check over time.
Yet, Ron Santo got away with it. He was allowed to do all of those things because he wasn't just a former Cubs player or the Cubs announcer. He was bigger than all of that. He was the voice of the fans.
I am not much of a Cubs fan and have said many times that "Pat Hughes is a saint for putting up with Ron Santo for all those years." Even still, I can appreciate an iconic figure and Ron Santo certainly was that and more to Cubs fans.
The Cubs family has lost a legendary member, and the broadcasting fraternity has lost a one-of-a-kind personality. Ron Santo will be missed.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Notes from the Parent Club
It's kind of a slow day around the blog the last few days, but I can always count on the parent club Diamondbacks to be in the news. Here's a rundown on some good reads about what Arizona has been doing the last few days:
-First of all, I know some people are planning on attending Spring Training at the new facility. Here's a schedule of when the Diamondbacks will play in the Cactus League.
-Yesterday, the Diamondbacks inked former Dayton Dragons star Wily Mo Pena to a Minor League deal. He's an option in left field, according to Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic.
-Arizona also has to make some decisions on whether to tender contracts to eight players. See the list here.
-First of all, I know some people are planning on attending Spring Training at the new facility. Here's a schedule of when the Diamondbacks will play in the Cactus League.
-Yesterday, the Diamondbacks inked former Dayton Dragons star Wily Mo Pena to a Minor League deal. He's an option in left field, according to Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic.
-Arizona also has to make some decisions on whether to tender contracts to eight players. See the list here.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Lugnuts Announce Field Staff
The Lansing Lugnuts announced their field staff for 2011 late yesterday, featuring a 12-year Major League veteran as their new manager. You can read the full release on their website, or just view the summary below.
Manager - Mike Redmond
Pitching Coach - Vince Horsman
Hitting Coach - John Tamargo, Jr.
Manager - Mike Redmond
Pitching Coach - Vince Horsman
Hitting Coach - John Tamargo, Jr.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Did You Know...
...that the Diamondbacks have two of the top seven picks in next June's draft? I was browsing the Baseball America website, and saw the list of who would be picking where next year.
It looks like the Silver Hawks should continue to see a lot of top talent in the years to come.
If you want to check out the list, go to this link.
It looks like the Silver Hawks should continue to see a lot of top talent in the years to come.
If you want to check out the list, go to this link.
LumberKings Announce Coaching Staff
The Clinton LumberKings announced their coaching staff for 2011 yesterday. If you go to the link, you can read where their new manager once played in the Midwest League, as well as some biographical information on all the coaches.
If that doesn't interest you, allow me to just list the staff for you below:
Manager - Eddie Menchaca
Pitching Coach - Rich Dorman
Hitting Coach - Terry Pollreisz
If that doesn't interest you, allow me to just list the staff for you below:
Manager - Eddie Menchaca
Pitching Coach - Rich Dorman
Hitting Coach - Terry Pollreisz
Monday, November 29, 2010
Back At It
I hope everyone had a nice holiday weekend and got a chance to spend time with family and friends.
To say that I had a great Thanksgiving would be an understatement. I proposed on Wednesday night to an amazing woman, and thankfully, she said yes. I'm a very lucky man and couldn't be happier.
In other baseball-related news since I last posted:
-The Diamondbacks acquired Zach Duke from the Pirates for a player to be named later. The PTBNL will be announced after the Rule 5 Draft takes place on December 9th because rosters are currently frozen. This doesn't necessarily mean that the player is eligible for Rule 5 selection, and according to the link above, indicates that he is a low-level player. I have no inside knowledge at all, but I'm guessing that when we find out who it is, it's going to be someone who played in South Bend within the last year or two.
-Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic has more analysis on Duke and the deal on his blog, which you can read here.
-I saw this a few weeks ago, and am just now posting it. Here's a chart of the PDC status for every MLB club and their affiliates from the Baseball America website. It'll let you know when you might see affiliation changes around the MiLB landscape.
To say that I had a great Thanksgiving would be an understatement. I proposed on Wednesday night to an amazing woman, and thankfully, she said yes. I'm a very lucky man and couldn't be happier.
In other baseball-related news since I last posted:
-The Diamondbacks acquired Zach Duke from the Pirates for a player to be named later. The PTBNL will be announced after the Rule 5 Draft takes place on December 9th because rosters are currently frozen. This doesn't necessarily mean that the player is eligible for Rule 5 selection, and according to the link above, indicates that he is a low-level player. I have no inside knowledge at all, but I'm guessing that when we find out who it is, it's going to be someone who played in South Bend within the last year or two.
-Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic has more analysis on Duke and the deal on his blog, which you can read here.
-I saw this a few weeks ago, and am just now posting it. Here's a chart of the PDC status for every MLB club and their affiliates from the Baseball America website. It'll let you know when you might see affiliation changes around the MiLB landscape.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Happy Thanksgiving!
I just wanted to take a minute to wish everyone who views my blog a very happy Thanksgiving. Like most of you, I'll be spending the holidays with family and friends, eating too much and watching football.
If any major news happens, I'll try to post on here, but more than likely, you'll get a collection of stories when the typical work week resumes on Monday.
If any major news happens, I'll try to post on here, but more than likely, you'll get a collection of stories when the typical work week resumes on Monday.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Former Hawks Win AFL Championship
The Scottsdale Scorpions brought home the Arizona Fall League championship over the weekend, with seven former Silver Hawks on the winning squad.
Members of the winning team included:
Marc Krauss
A.J. Pollock
Konrad Schmidt (played only one game due to injury)
Josh Collmenter
Bryan Shaw
Daniel Stange
Bryan Woodall
Congrats to the former Hawks!
Members of the winning team included:
Marc Krauss
A.J. Pollock
Konrad Schmidt (played only one game due to injury)
Josh Collmenter
Bryan Shaw
Daniel Stange
Bryan Woodall
Congrats to the former Hawks!
40 Man Roster Notes
I got this late on Friday from the Arizona Diamondbacks:
The Arizona Diamondbacks announced today they have claimed right-handed pitcher Juan Jaime off waivers from the Washington Nationals, according to D-backs’ Executive Vice President and General Manager Kevin Towers. The D-backs also announced that they have selected two players, right-handed pitchers Josh Collmenter and Yonata Ortega, to the club’s 40-man roster.
Being on the 40-man roster protects a player from being selected in the upcoming Rule V Draft. Collmenter cemented his spot with a huge showing in the Arizona Fall League, while the Diamondbacks have long been enamored by Yonata Ortega's arm.
After watching Ortega for the last two years, I certainly think this is a good move for Arizona. Yes, he still has some occasional wildness and most fans know that his adventures in the ninth inning would sometimes cause me fits. However, he throws very hard and excelled in a promotion to Visalia later in the season.
The Arizona Diamondbacks announced today they have claimed right-handed pitcher Juan Jaime off waivers from the Washington Nationals, according to D-backs’ Executive Vice President and General Manager Kevin Towers. The D-backs also announced that they have selected two players, right-handed pitchers Josh Collmenter and Yonata Ortega, to the club’s 40-man roster.
Being on the 40-man roster protects a player from being selected in the upcoming Rule V Draft. Collmenter cemented his spot with a huge showing in the Arizona Fall League, while the Diamondbacks have long been enamored by Yonata Ortega's arm.
After watching Ortega for the last two years, I certainly think this is a good move for Arizona. Yes, he still has some occasional wildness and most fans know that his adventures in the ninth inning would sometimes cause me fits. However, he throws very hard and excelled in a promotion to Visalia later in the season.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Quad Cities Field Staff
They don't have it up on their website yet, but the Quad Cities River Bandits just sent out a press release announcing their 2011 field staff. However, all three coaches are back from last season, so there's not a lot of drama with this one.
Manager: Johnny Rodriguez
Pitching Coach: Tim Leveque
Hitting Coach: Joe Kruzel
Manager: Johnny Rodriguez
Pitching Coach: Tim Leveque
Hitting Coach: Joe Kruzel
Upton, Allen, and Miranda
A good blog post by Nick Piecoro examined yesterday's trade of Scottie Allen for Juan Miranda and also looked into Kevin Towers saying that he would listen to offers on former Silver Hawks outfielder Justin Upton.
Knowing that the Diamondbacks traded away Carlos Gonzalez, who is developing into a tremendous player, would you even consider doing the same thing with Justin Upton? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Honestly, I have no problem with him listening to offers. If I were a GM (and that would be a cold day you know where if I was ever given a GM job), I would never say that a player was untouchable. I know it sounds crazy, but doesn't every player have a price that would make him appealing to be dealt?
Knowing that the Diamondbacks traded away Carlos Gonzalez, who is developing into a tremendous player, would you even consider doing the same thing with Justin Upton? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Honestly, I have no problem with him listening to offers. If I were a GM (and that would be a cold day you know where if I was ever given a GM job), I would never say that a player was untouchable. I know it sounds crazy, but doesn't every player have a price that would make him appealing to be dealt?
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Today's News and Notes
Off the Field News: The Silver Hawks announced today an exciting Saturday lineup featuring appearances from the ZOOperstars!, BirdZerk!, Myron Noodleman, and Jake the Diamond Dog. These national entertainment acts will enhance your experience at the Cove, and you can find more information at www.silverhawks.com. We also have ticket packages designed around these days, so act now.
On the Field News: The Diamondbacks today traded 2010 Silver Hawks pitcher Scottie Allen to the New York Yankees for infielder Juan Miranda. Miranda will play first base for the Diamondbacks to replace Adam LaRoche. I really liked Scottie, and thought he would be a good pitcher for years to come. That being said, the big league team takes precendent, and they desperately needed someone at first base.
On the Field News: The Diamondbacks today traded 2010 Silver Hawks pitcher Scottie Allen to the New York Yankees for infielder Juan Miranda. Miranda will play first base for the Diamondbacks to replace Adam LaRoche. I really liked Scottie, and thought he would be a good pitcher for years to come. That being said, the big league team takes precendent, and they desperately needed someone at first base.
Blog Maintenance
Some parts of the blog are going to be down for a few days to undergo some maintenance work. I'll still have posts, but I may not have any photos for you for a couple of days.
Arizona Fall League Update
I can't believe I haven't updated the AFL since October 28th. The Scottsdale Scorpions cruised through the league with a 20-11 record and will be playing for the title on Saturday.
Former Silver Hawks pitcher Josh Collmenter tied for the most strikeouts in the league with 30.
Here are your final regular season stats for the former Silver Hawks:
Hitters
Marc Krauss: .305, 4 HR, 23 RBI, 20 R
Konrad Schmidt: .250, 0 HR, 1 RBI (only one game played due to injury)
A.J. Pollock: DNP .295, 0 HR, 9 RBI, 10 R,
Pitchers
Josh Collmenter: 4-0, 3.04 ERA, 26.2 IP, 9 ER
Bryan Shaw: 0-1, 3.48 ERA, 10.1 IP, 4 ER
Daniel Stange: 2-0, 8.44 ERA, 10.2 IP, 10 ER
Bryan Woodall: 1-0, 5.40 ERA, 6.2 IP, 4 ER
Former Silver Hawks pitcher Josh Collmenter tied for the most strikeouts in the league with 30.
Here are your final regular season stats for the former Silver Hawks:
Hitters
Marc Krauss: .305, 4 HR, 23 RBI, 20 R
Konrad Schmidt: .250, 0 HR, 1 RBI (only one game played due to injury)
A.J. Pollock: DNP .295, 0 HR, 9 RBI, 10 R,
Pitchers
Josh Collmenter: 4-0, 3.04 ERA, 26.2 IP, 9 ER
Bryan Shaw: 0-1, 3.48 ERA, 10.1 IP, 4 ER
Daniel Stange: 2-0, 8.44 ERA, 10.2 IP, 10 ER
Bryan Woodall: 1-0, 5.40 ERA, 6.2 IP, 4 ER
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Trivia Tidbit
I researched the history for the Managers of the Year that were announced today.
I couldn't find any Midwest League connection for Bud Black, but did you know that Ron Gardenhire managed the 1988 Kenosha Twins? He was the skipper and led them to an impressive 81-59 record. They lost in the MWL Finals that year to the Cedar Rapids Reds.
1988 was also the year the South Bend franchise started. Of course, they were known as the South Bend White Sox at the time. However, it's always interesting to find out that Ron Gardenhire once managed from the visiting dugout at Coveleski Stadium.
I couldn't find any Midwest League connection for Bud Black, but did you know that Ron Gardenhire managed the 1988 Kenosha Twins? He was the skipper and led them to an impressive 81-59 record. They lost in the MWL Finals that year to the Cedar Rapids Reds.
1988 was also the year the South Bend franchise started. Of course, they were known as the South Bend White Sox at the time. However, it's always interesting to find out that Ron Gardenhire once managed from the visiting dugout at Coveleski Stadium.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Well, That Didn't Last Long
Apparently, Rico Brogna is out as Director of Player Development for the Diamondbacks. Mike Bell, who had been the field coordinator, will take over in that role.
No word on why Brogna lasted only a month in this role.
No word on why Brogna lasted only a month in this role.
Another Award for Gonzalez
I don't really know how I missed this last week, but former Silver Hawks outfield Carlos Gonzalez won a Silver Slugger Award. This is in addition to the Gold Glove that he also brought home last week.
He'll likely receive votes later this week for NL MVP, and honestly has a legitimate shot at winning it.
Here's a good breakdown of the three main candidates (Pujols, Votto, and Gonzalez -- all of whom played in the Midwest League).
You tell me, who do you vote for? I'm a Reds fan and a complete homer, so my vote goes to Votto. I also think getting your team to the playoffs should count for something. But I'm willing to listen to other arguments.
He'll likely receive votes later this week for NL MVP, and honestly has a legitimate shot at winning it.
Here's a good breakdown of the three main candidates (Pujols, Votto, and Gonzalez -- all of whom played in the Midwest League).
You tell me, who do you vote for? I'm a Reds fan and a complete homer, so my vote goes to Votto. I also think getting your team to the playoffs should count for something. But I'm willing to listen to other arguments.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Spelius Wins Award
MWL President George Spelius won the Warren Giles Award on Friday, as announced by Minor League Baseball. The Giles Award honors outstanding service as a league president. It is the second time he has won the award in his career.
Congratulations to Mr. Spelius, who I've had the honor of interviewing on the radio a few times over my five years in the league.
Congratulations to Mr. Spelius, who I've had the honor of interviewing on the radio a few times over my five years in the league.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Vote Now
Alright, we've told you about the proposed renovations, now we want to know what you are most excited about.
Vote on the right side of the page as to which proposed renovation to the Cove is of most interest to you.
Vote on the right side of the page as to which proposed renovation to the Cove is of most interest to you.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Former Hawk Wins Gold Glove
Carlos Gonzalez once patrolled the outfield at Coveleski Stadium. He now is playing gold glove caliber defense with the Colorado Rockies.
Carlos Gonzalez was one of two Rockies to win a Rawlings Gold Glove, as announced today by Rawlings and Major League Baseball.
Congratulations to the former Silver Hawks star.
Carlos Gonzalez was one of two Rockies to win a Rawlings Gold Glove, as announced today by Rawlings and Major League Baseball.
Congratulations to the former Silver Hawks star.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Fort Wayne Announced Field Staff
The Fort Wayne TinCaps have announced their field staff for 2011. As best I can tell, this is the first Midwest League team that has announced their staff for next year.
Manager - Shawn Wooten
Pitching Coach - Willie Blair
Hitting Coach - Korey DeHaan
All three have played in the majors. Willie Blair once pitched for the Diamondbacks.
Manager - Shawn Wooten
Pitching Coach - Willie Blair
Hitting Coach - Korey DeHaan
All three have played in the majors. Willie Blair once pitched for the Diamondbacks.
Other Stuff I Missed While I Was on Vacation
Just catching up on a few things while I was gone last week...
-The Giants won the World Series in 5 games. I predicted Giants in 6. Close enough for me to brag about how much better I am than you!
-Sparky Anderson passed away. Sparky won his titles with the Reds before I was born, and his time with the Tigers came to an end while I was still in junior high. However, he clearly was a great manager and the first of just two managers (with Tony LaRussa) to win a World Series in both leagues. Remember when we were talking two weeks ago about no-name coaches vs. "famous" coaches. Sparky is the argument for the no-name guys, because when he was hired by the Reds, the newspaper in town ran the headline "Sparky Who?"
-Swoop went trick-or-treating with the Raabe family of South Bend. A good time was had by all.
-Finally, former Silver Hawks infielder Yunesky Sanchez was released by the Diamondbacks. He was 26 years old, but had been hitting the ball decently over the past four seasons. including a .284 mark with Reno in 2010. I'm sure Arizona has their reasons, but this one is a bit of a head-scratcher in that he seems like a guy that would be good to fill out a roster (if not in the majors, then certainly at AAA). Your guess is as good as mine.
-The Giants won the World Series in 5 games. I predicted Giants in 6. Close enough for me to brag about how much better I am than you!
-Sparky Anderson passed away. Sparky won his titles with the Reds before I was born, and his time with the Tigers came to an end while I was still in junior high. However, he clearly was a great manager and the first of just two managers (with Tony LaRussa) to win a World Series in both leagues. Remember when we were talking two weeks ago about no-name coaches vs. "famous" coaches. Sparky is the argument for the no-name guys, because when he was hired by the Reds, the newspaper in town ran the headline "Sparky Who?"
-Swoop went trick-or-treating with the Raabe family of South Bend. A good time was had by all.
-Finally, former Silver Hawks infielder Yunesky Sanchez was released by the Diamondbacks. He was 26 years old, but had been hitting the ball decently over the past four seasons. including a .284 mark with Reno in 2010. I'm sure Arizona has their reasons, but this one is a bit of a head-scratcher in that he seems like a guy that would be good to fill out a roster (if not in the majors, then certainly at AAA). Your guess is as good as mine.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Did I Miss Anything While I Was Gone?
I'm back from my vacation (more on that a bit later this week), and apparently I picked a bad week to leave town.
While I was away, the City of South Bend announced that they would be spending some money to help renovate Coveleski Stadium. Among the planned improvements are:
-Field Turf
-State-of-the-Art Video Scoreboard
-Walk-in Team Store
-Renovated Suites and Upper Deck
-New Center Field entrance that opens the Cove up to downtown
-And much, much more.
You can click on the link above to see some artist renderings of the "new" Cove. I'll also spend some time on the blog tomorrow going over a few more details about the project.
I have to catch up on some things now, but I'll probably have one more post later today.
While I was away, the City of South Bend announced that they would be spending some money to help renovate Coveleski Stadium. Among the planned improvements are:
-Field Turf
-State-of-the-Art Video Scoreboard
-Walk-in Team Store
-Renovated Suites and Upper Deck
-New Center Field entrance that opens the Cove up to downtown
-And much, much more.
You can click on the link above to see some artist renderings of the "new" Cove. I'll also spend some time on the blog tomorrow going over a few more details about the project.
I have to catch up on some things now, but I'll probably have one more post later today.
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