Monthly Archives: April 2012

April 11, 2012 · 12:19 pm

Athletes Auction Autographed Bras for Charity!

Soccer player McCall Zerboni and the Bayer family are raising money again for breast cancer research.

Between April 7th and 15th on eBay, bidders in the MZ & Emmers Sports Bra Auction for Breast Cancer can vie for sports bras from Olympians, boxers, car and boat racers, lingerie football and basketball players, at least one barrel racer, and just about every other sport imaginable.

Many of the nearly 200 donated garments are decorated; all are signed.

Donors include:
•Hope Solo, USWNT Goalkeeper
•American Record Holder in the Javelin – Kara Patterson
•4 x 100m World Champion Brianna Glenn
•4 x 400m Olympic Gold Medalist Mary Wineberg
•10,000m Bronze Medalist Shalane Flanagan
•Boxer Laila Ali
•3-time Gold and 1-time Silver Medalist Winner & women’s sports advocate Nancy Hogshead-Makar
•USWNT Captain Christie Rampone
•Shannon Miller, the most decorated gymnast in U.S. History
•Former Pro Volleyball Player and Model Gabrielle Reece
•1999 World Cup Champion Brandi Chastain
•Baylor Basketball Coach Kim Mulkey
•1999 World Cup Champion Mia Hamm
•2008 Softball Gold Medalist Jennie Finch
•Nadia Comaneci, Russian gymnast who was the first female to be awarded a perfect 10 in a gymnastic event
•Melanie Moore, who won Season 8 of So You Think You Can Dance
•Actress, ftness guru and political activist Jane Fonda
•2003 Miss Universe Amelia Vega
•1984 U.S. gold medal gymnast Mary Lou Retton
•Tennis legend Billie Jean King, who instead donated her book Pressure Is a Privilege and an autographed picture.

To learn more about the story of how this auction came about and how soccer player McCall Zerboni and the Bayer family met, check out WestCobbPatch.

The auction is set to go live Saturday morning, April 7th, at 6:55am ET on eBay’s Giving Works page, and bidding for each bra will begin at intervals through Sunday. Bids will be accepted for exactly one week.

For more information and to see all of the available bras for auction, check out the MZ & Emmers Sports Bra Auction for Breast Cancer Facebook Page (in their Wall Photos album).

I wonder if these are game used… regardless, it’s a good cause and I encourage you to participate.

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April 10, 2012 · 3:51 pm

Save the Date – May 23rd – Hackers & Homers!

Announced today is the 5th annual IronPig’s Charities Hackers & Homers golf tournament!

Be a Hacker, Be a Homer or be Both!

The 5th Annual IronPigs Charities Hackers & Homers Golf Tournament will take place at Southmoore Golf Club in Bath on Wednesday May 23rd. Hackers & Homers features a scramble format and a shotgun start that begins at 8:00 AM. Entry fees include green fees, cart usage, lunch, a tournament gift and entry into the putting contest.

IronPig’s Charities has been able to distribute more than $437,000 to local Lehigh Valley non-profits!

I’ve been to this event the past three years and it is a great time for a great cause.

For more information on registration or sponsorship opportunities contact,

Sarah Marten
Director, Community Relations
Lehigh Valley IronPigs
1050 IronPigs Way
Allentown, PA 18109
(610) 841-1213
smarten@ironpigsbaseball.com

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April 10, 2012 · 3:14 pm

Valdes Leak – ‘Pigs Weak – PawSox 8-0

The first place IronPigs will conclude their 4 game series at sunny, windy Pawtucket in the first day game of 2012 before returning to Coca-Cola Park on Wednesday to take on Bryce Harper and the Syracuse Chiefs.

Right Hander Dave Bush (3 teams in 2011 and 3.91 ERA with the ‘Pigs) will get the nod for the ‘Pigs and Ross Ohlendorf (4.77 ERA in his MLB appearances) for the PawSox.

Back in August during a Bush start a bench clearing incident occurred resulting in the suspension of catcher Erik Kratz. (Bush was not on the mound during the incident).

Bottom 1 (Viva La Frandsen)

Keven “Viva La” Frandsen robbed Mauro Gomez (1B) of a sure RBI single with a dynamite play at SS. Seems the Phils have some great play at short so far this season.

Top 2 (Now 29 total LOB)

After Hector Luna flies out after back to back singles by Joe Thurston and Cody Overbeck, the ‘Pigs strand two as Derrick Mitchell grounds into a 5-4-3 double play.

Bottom 2 (Runs, Drips, and Errors)

Luis Exposito (C) lines a double to left and scores on a throwing error by Tuffy Gosewisch (C) after a bunt by Pedro Ceriaco (SS).

Josh Kroeger (CF) goes down swinging and Lavarnway (DH) grounds out to Luna leaving Ceriaco on 2nd following a stolen base.

Derrick Mitchell grabs an ice-cream cone pop-up to center to end the inning and stem the scoring onslaught. Pigs 0 – Sox 1

Top 3 (39.9% lead-off walk scores – not this time)

Kevin Frandsen grabs a lead-off walk only to have Dom Brown ground into a 4-6-3 double play. 2 down

Hector Luna pops out to end the inning. Pigs still down 1-0

Bottom 6 (Valdes spills)

Bush finishes with 5 strong innings giving up 2 hits, 2 BB, 2 SO and 1 (un)earned run.

Raul Valdes in to start the 6th.

Josh Kroeger (CF) singles to 2nd and Larvarnway blasts one to center that is tracked down at the wall by Mitchell. 1 out

Mauro Gomez (1B) proceeds to blast one over the left field fence to put the PawSox up 3-0.

Lars Anderson (LF) with a line shot to right – man on – one out. Valdes with not a strong start.

Will Middlebrooks (3B) launches another liner to left center – two on – still one out – Valdes struggling at this point.

Daniel Nava (RF) blasted a homer to left clearing the bases.

Nate Spears (2B) pops out and Luis Exposito is gunned down with a grounder to Thurston to end the inning but the damage has been done. PawSox 6 – Pigs zilch.

Top 7 (Spoon swoons)

Chorye Spoon on to pitch for Ohlendorf who went 6 stellar innings giving up 2 hits, 3 BB, 1 K and zero runs.

Frandsen is robbed by a diving SS Ciriaco. 1 out

Brown reaches on an error by first baseman Mauro Gomez.

Hector Luna grounds out into the 3rd ground ball double play to end the inning.

Bottom 7 (More Horst Power)

Jeremy Horst in to replace Valdes who leaked 5 hits and 5 runs.

Ciriaco grounds out to Thurston on a quick toss to first. 1 out

Kroeger grounds out to Overbeck. 2 out

Lavarnway grabbed a 2 out walk.

Gomez singles and Lars Anderson pops out to end the inning. PawSox 6 – ‘Pigs zip

Top 8 (Spoonerific)

Thurston grounds out to first. 1 out

Overbeck grounds out to short for the 2nd out

Mitchell grounds out to third to end the inning. Pigs still down 6-0

Bottom 8 (Horst put to pasture)

Middlebrooks launched one over right center – 7 nothing Pawsox.

Nava singles to left.

Spears flies out to center fielder Mitchell. 1-out

Exposito blasts one to left that gets over Brown’s head to bounce in the stands for a ground rule double scoring Nava. PawSox now up 8 nil.

Horst is lead to pasture and replaced by left-handed pitching David Purcey.

Ciriaco singles on a swinging bunt to pitcher Purcey and advances Exposito to third. 2 on 1 out

Josh Kroeger strikes out for the 2nd out of the inning.

Lavarnway pops out to Overbeck but not before further damage and the ‘Pigs are now down 8 – love.

Top 9 (no rally Cap required)

Garret Mock on the hill to begin the 9th.

Gosewisch and Suomi lead off with singles. 2 on – none out

Posednik lines out to left. 1 out

Frandsen flies to center for out number 2 – Tuffy to third on the tag-up.

Dom Brown pops out to short to end the misery. Final Sox 8 – Pigs 0

Click below for the Matt Provence IronPigs Radio Recap of the Game.

Tough day for the bullpen after a strong season start. As the Spring air warms, let’s hope the bats do the same. To look at the overall stats and note the record only bodes well for the future or perhaps not.

In the first 6 games the ‘Pigs are 32 for 164 at the plate for a sub-Mendoza line .195 average but are still 4-2 and at least in a tie for first in the IL North. (Note that all 6 games used the DH)

Be sure to rub your Ferrous bobble-belly for luck and Bring on the Chiefs and the NOISE!

OinK

DiPro’s Dish

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April 10, 2012 · 10:14 am

Know Who You Boo – Umpires, 2012 Edition

GERARD ASCANI — Age 29 — 5’9”, 160 lbs. — Resides in Metairie, LA — 2nd yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2004) S. Atlantic Lg. (2005-06) Southern Lg. (2008-10)
New York-Penn Lg. (2004) Carolina Lg. (2006-07) Venezuelan Lg. (2010)
Appalachian Lg. (2005) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2008) International Lg. (2011)

SEAN BARBER — Age 26 — 5’9”, 190 lbs. — Resides in Lakeland, FL — 1st yr. in Triple-A
Appalachian Lg. (2006-07) Florida State Lg. (2008-09) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2009-10)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2007) Southern Lg. (2009-11) Venezuelan Lg. (2011)

CRAIG BARRON — Age 31 — 5’10”, 215 lbs. — Resides in Fayetteville, GA — 3rd yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2005) S. Atlantic Lg. (2006) Southern Lg. (2008-09)
New York-Penn Lg. (2005) Carolina Lg. (2007) Venezuelan Lg. (2009)
Florida Inst. Lg. (2005) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2007-08) International Lg. (2010-11)

TOBY BASNER — Age 27 — 5’10”, 172 lbs. — Resides in Snellville, GA — 3rd full yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2004) Dominican Lg. (2006) Puerto Rican Lg. (2008)
Appalachian Lg. (2005) Carolina Lg. (2006-07) Pacific Coast Lg. (2009)
Florida Inst. Lg. (2005) Venezuelan Lg. (2007) Arizona Fall Lg. (2009-10)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2006) Southern Lg. (2007-09) International Lg. (2010-11)

SETH BUCKMINSTER — Age 30 — 6’4”, 210 lbs. — Resides in Fort Worth, TX — 1st yr. in Triple-A
Arizona Lg. (2006) Florida Inst. Lg. (2008) Texas Lg. (2010-11)
Appalachian Lg. (2007-08) California Lg. (2009) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2010)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2008)

KELVIN BULTRON — Age 33 — 5’10”, 210 lbs. — Resides in Canovanas, Puerto Rico — 2nd yr. in Triple-A
Appalachian Lg. (2006) Florida State Lg. (2008-09) Texas Lg. (2009-10)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2007) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2009) International Lg. (2011)

JON BYRNE — Age 28 — 5’10”, 143 lbs. — Resides in Thornlie, Austrailia — 2nd yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2005) California Lg. (2007) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2009)
Northwest Lg. (2006) Eastern Lg. (2008-10) International Lg. (2011)
Midwest Lg. (2006)

VIC CARAPAZZA — Age 32 — 6’0”, 170 lbs. — Resides in Palm Harbor, FL — 4th full yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2003-04) Florida State Lg. (2006) Pacific Coast Lg. (2008-09)
Florida Inst. Lg. (2003-05) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2006) Arizona Fall Lg. (2008-09)
New York-Penn Lg. (2004) Eastern Lg. (2006-08) International Lg. (2010-11)
Midwest Lg. (2005) Dominican Lg. (2007) Major Lg. Baseball (2010-11)

TRAVIS CARLSON — Age 27 — 6’6”, 215 lbs. — Resides in Lakeland, FL — 1st yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2006) Florida State Lg. (2008-09) Southern Lg. (2010-11)
New York-Penn Lg. (2006) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2009) Venezuelan Lg. (2011)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2007)

JOHN CONRAD — Age 35 — 6’0”, 195 lbs. — Resides in Wallingford, CT — 3rd yr. in Triple-A
Arizona Lg. (2004) California Lg. (2006-07) International Lg. (2010-11)
Appalachian Lg. (2004) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2007) Arizona Fall Lg. (2010)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2005) Eastern Lg. (2007-09)

CHRIS CONROY — Age 37 — 6’4”, 230 lbs. — Resides in North Adams, MA — 6th full yr. in Triple-A
New York-Penn Lg. (2000-01) Eastern Lg. (2004-06) International Lg. (2007-11)
Florida Inst. Lg. (2001-02) Pacific Coast Lg. (2006) Venezuelan Lg. (2008)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2002) Arizona Fall Lg. (2007,09-10) Major Lg. Baseball (2010-11)
Carolina Lg. (2003)

MIKE ESTABROOK — Age 35 — 6’0”, 185 lbs. — Resides in Lambertville, NJ — 8th yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (1999-2000) Florida State Lg. (2002) International Lg. (2005-11)
Appalachian Lg. (2000) Southern Lg. (2003-04) Arizona Fall Lg. (2006)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2001) Venezuelan Lg. (2004) Major Lg. Baseball (2006-11)

MANNY GONZALEZ — Age 32 — 6’0”, 210 lbs. — Resides in Valencia, Venezuela — 5th yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2002-03) Florida State Lg. (2005) Arizona Fall Lg. (2008-09)
New York-Penn Lg. (2003-04) Texas Lg. (2006) International Lg. (2008-11)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2004) Southern Lg. (2007) Major Lg. Baseball (2010-11)

JEFF GOSNEY — Age 28 — 5’11”, 185 lbs. — Resides in Lakeland, FL — 2nd yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2006) Florida Inst. Lg. (2007) Venezuelan Lg. (2010)
Appalachian Lg. (2006) Florida State Lg. (2008) International Lg. (2011)
Midwest Lg. (2007) Texas Lg. (2008-10)

ADAM HAMARI — Age 28 — 6’0”, 185 lbs. — Resides in Marquette, MI — 2nd yr. in Triple-A
New York-Penn Lg. (2006) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2007,09) Eastern Lg. (2009-10)
Midwest Lg. (2007) Florida State Lg. (2008) International Lg. (2011)
California Lg. (2007) Southern Lg. (2008) Arizona Fall Lg. (2011)

ANTHONY JOHNSON — Age 30 — 5’9”, 160 lbs. — Resides in McComb, MS — 1st yr. in Triple-A
Pioneer Lg. (2006) Carolina Lg. (2008) Southern Lg. (2010-11)
Appalachian Lg. (2007) Florida State Lg. (2009) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2010)
S. Atlantic. Lg. (2007)

WILL LITTLE — Age 28 — 5’11”, 170 lbs. — Resides in Fall Branch, TN — 1st yr. in Triple-A
Appalachian Lg. (2007) Carolina Lg. (2008-09) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2009-10)
Florida Inst. Lg. (2007) Southern Lg. (2009-11) Dominican Lg. (2011)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2008)

MARK LOLLO — Age 30 — 5’11”, 205 lbs. — Resides in New Lexington, OH — 4th yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2002-03) Carolina Lg. (2005) International Lg. (2009-11)
New York-Penn Lg. (2003) Florida State Lg. (2006) Arizona Fall Lg. (2010-11)
Florida Inst. Lg. (2004-05) Texas Lg. (2006) Major Lg. Baseball (2011)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2004) Eastern Lg. (2007-08)

BEN MAY — Age 30 — 6’0”, 200 lbs. — Resides in Racine, WI — 1st yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2007) Midwest Lg. (2008-09) Eastern Lg. (2010-11)
New York-Penn Lg. (2007) Florida State Lg. (2008-10) Puerto Rican Lg. (2010)

BRAD MYERS — Age 32 — 5’10”, 190 lbs. — Resides in Holland, OH — 2nd yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2004) Midwest Lg. (2006-07) Texas Lg. (2008-10)
Florida Inst. Lg. (2004) Florida State Lg. (2007) International Lg. (2011)
New York-Penn Lg. (2005) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2008)

ALAN PORTER — Age 34 — 5’10”, 200 lbs. — Resides in Warminster, PA — 5th yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2002-03) Carolina Lg. (2005) Arizona Fall Lg. (2008-09)
New York-Penn Lg. (2003) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2005) International Lg. (2008-11)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2004) Eastern Lg. (2006-07) Major Lg. Baseball (2010-11)
Florida Inst. Lg. (2004)

DAVID RACKLEY — Age 30 — 5’10”, 175 lbs. — Resides in Matthews, NC — 5th full yr. in Triple-A
Arizona Lg. (2001) California Lg. (2004) Arizona Fall Lg. (2008-09)
Florida Inst. Lg. (2001-02) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2004-05) Venezuelan Lg. (2010)
Northwest Lg. (2002-03) Texas Lg. (2005-07) Major Lg. Baseball (2010-11)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2003) International Lg. (2007-11)

JON SAPHIRE — Age 30 — 6’3”, 215 lbs. — Resides in Centerville, OH — 1st yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2005) Midwest Lg. (2007) Eastern Lg. (2009-11)
New York-Penn Lg. (2006) Carolina Lg. (2007-08) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2009-10)

DAVID SOUCY — Age 29 — 6’3”, 195 lbs. — Resides in Bluffton, SC — 1st full yr. in Triple-A
Appalachian Lg. (2006) Carolina Lg. (2008) Eastern Lg. (2009-11)
Florida Inst. Lg. (2006) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2008) International Lg. (2011)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2007)

CHRIS WARD — Age 31 — 5’11”, 172 lbs. — Resides in Ashland, KY — 3rd yr. in Triple-A
Gulf Coast Lg. (2004) S. Atlantic Lg. (2006-07) Venezuelan Lg. (2009)
Appalachian Lg. (2005) Carolina Lg. (2007) International Lg. (2010-11)
Florida Inst. Lg. (2005) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2007) Arizona Fall Lg. (2010-11)
New York-Penn Lg. (2005-06) Southern Lg. (2007-09)

CHAD WHITSON — Age 30 — 6’1”, 185 lbs. — Resides in Dublin, OH — 2nd full yr. in Triple-A
Appalachian Lg. (2005) Arizona Inst. Lg. (2008) International Lg. (2010-11)
S. Atlantic Lg. (2006) Eastern Lg. (2008-10) Arizona Fall Lg. (2011)
California Lg. (2007)

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April 9, 2012 · 9:11 pm

IronPigs – 27 LOB – .121 with RISP – Record 4-1

Scott Elarton who did not pitch in 2011 due to various injuries made his IronPigs debut against RHP Doug Mathis (0-5, 4.27 in AAA with Sacramento and Fresno in the PCL) in sunny Pawtucket in game 3 of the series this afternoon.

Bottom 3 (Cuutt on and Missed)

Che-Hsuan Lin (CF) leads off with a walk.

Josh Kroeger (RF) and Alex Hassan (LF) fly out.

Nate Spears (2B) singles to bring runners to 2nd and 3rd with two outs.

Starting pitcher Elarton gets Jose Iglesias (SS) on a swinging strike for the third out.

Top 4 (Brown RBI – Brown Picked)

After a lead-off golf shot just over Rae’s Creek for a Hector Luna (3B) double, Dom Brown adds his 3rd RBI in as many at bats. Pigs 1-0.

Cody Overbeck lined out for the first out and after a few throws to 2nd, Dom Brown is picked off in a not so close play – two outs.

Derrick Mitchell just misses a jack but it’s held up by blustering winds up to 25 MPH – inning over.

Top 5 (LOB + RISP = O)

Rich Thompson (single) and Kevin Frandsen (HPB) both reach base but the ‘Pigs are unable capitalize. Pigs 1-0

Bottom 5 (Elarton loads ’em and stowes ’em)

After a single to Will Middlebrooks (3B), Lin flies out on a deep shot to Rich Thompson, Kroeger does the same – 2 outs.

Middlebrook steals second on a strong throw by Erik Kratz (C) to the wrong side of the bag.

Alex Hassan (LF) and Spears both drew walks to load the bases with two outs bringing Jose Igesias to the plate who Colorado born 6’8″ Elarton blows Iglesias away with 3 straight pitches (1 foul, 2 swinging strikes). Still 1 – nothing ‘Pigs

Top 6 (Sanches puts ’em trances)

Elarton leaves with 5 strong innings surrendering 2 hits, no runs, 3 BB and 4 SO and is replaced by Major League veteran, rightie Brian Sanches.

Maura Gomez (DH) leads off with a single.

Andres Blanco (SS) knocked over by a smashed line drive throws Gomez out at 2nd from his backside and Frandsen completes the double play.

Lars Anderson (1B) grounds out to Frandsen to end the inning. Pigs 1 – PawSox 0

Top 7 (Cannonball Kratz)

Following a pop-up and a OinK, Josh Kroeger (RF) reaches on a walk then is caught stealing on a BB by catcher Erik Kratz to end the inning. ‘Pigs 1-0

Top 8 (Can you hear me Major DOM?)

Kevin Frandsen (2B) lines out 2nd and Lou Montanez (DH) files out to center for two quick outs.

Hector Luna then gets his 2nd hit of the game for his first multi-hit game of the year bringing Dom Brown for his first multi-hit game of the year. Brown began the year 0-7 with 5 K’s to start but has been strong since. Stay strong Dom!

Cody Overbeck came to the plate with 2 on 2 out and whiffed to end the inning. Pigs 1-0

Bottom 8 (Phear the Phro)

Brian Sanches goes 2 innings, 1 BB, 1 SO and is replaced by Michael Schwimer.

Hassan led off with a 5 pitch walk but is erased on a sac bunt try by Nate Spears.

Frandsen ranges far to his left to snag the popped up foul ball for a 2nd quick out.

Mauro Gomez (DH) bloops a single to right moving Spears to third.

The dreaded Ryan Lavarnway (C) grounds out to short to end the inning. ‘Pigs 1 – PawSox 0

Top 9 (Insurance – no)

Derrick Mitchell gets and infield single off a tough play by third-baseman Nate Spears.

Kratz rocks one off pitcher Junichi Tazawa that caroms to short and he’s thrown out at first – Mitchell advances to 2nd. Out 1

Andres Blanco grounds out to pitcher Tazawa for the 2nd out – Mitchell still at 2nd.

Rich Thompson flies out to right to end the inning.

Bottom 9 (Diekman got ’em with the skidooch)

Jake Diekman replaces Schwimer who gets the hold.

Lars Anderson is sent down looking – 1 down

Middlebrooks goes down swinging – 2 out

Che-Hsuan Lin singles down the first base line followed by another single by Kroeger. 2 on – 2 out

Diekman throwing hard (upper 90’s) takes the count 0-2 to Hassan (LF) and STRIKES HIM OUT looking.

Pigs Fly! (again)

Elarton with the win, Sanches and Schwimer with holds and Diekman with a strong save.

Click below for the Matt Provence IronPigs Radio Recap of the Game.

Dom Brown has had the game winning hit in the last two games!

There is this to consider -> In the first 5 games the ‘Pigs have left 27 on base and are 4 for 33 with RISP. (.121 with RISP)

Also this -> The pen has given up only 7 earned runs in 5 games with a sub 2 ERA

Imagine the possibilities when the bats warm up!

Pig Out!

DiPro’s Dish

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April 9, 2012 · 1:15 pm

IronPig’s Updated Roster – 4/9/12

Like we didn’t see this one coming..

RHP Dave Bush activated from MLB suspension (reduced from 5 G to 4 G).

OF Scott Podsednik activated from Temporarily Inactive List.

RHP Tyler Cloyd assigned to Reading (AA).

While it will improve the IronPigs with Podsednik returning, it’s a shame the International League Pitcher of the Week gets demoted.

I have a feeling he’ll be back mid-season.

OinK!

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April 9, 2012 · 10:44 am

Tyler Cloyd Named IL Pitcher of the Week!

On his first start at AAA, and possibly his last for quite a while, Tyler Cloyd has achieved what few IronPig pitchers have done.

He was named the International League Pitcher of the week!

From the IL:

Right-handed pitcher Tyler Cloud had never pitched at the Triple-A level prior to his Opening Day start for Lehigh Valley. In fact, Cloud was slated to open the 2012 season with Double-A Reading, but was summoned to Lehigh Valley for the IronPigs first game to replace suspended pitcher Dave Bush. The young prospect delivered six perfect innings en route to the IronPigs’ 3-0 victory over Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. He is the first pitcher in club history to toss six perfect frames in a game. Cloyd struck out eight Yankees hitters, a number he reached just twice in 22 starts last season. 24-year-old Tyler Cloyd is in his fifth season of professional baseball, having spent his entire career in the Philadelphia organization. Last season he combined to go 9-7 with a 2.77 ERA between Class-A and Double-A. Cloyd is a native of Bellevue, Nebraska.

Paul Janish of the Louisville Bats was named Hitter of the Week.

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April 8, 2012 · 8:20 pm

Transactions 4-8-2012

Mike Zagurski was removed from Arizona’s 40 man roster.

Ozzie Chavez (Braves) was placed on the 7 day disabled list.

Jeff Larish was released by the Orioles.

Jason Jaramillo was released by the Cubs. He later signed with the Brewers.

The Indians aquired Chin-Lung Hu from the Phillies for future considerations.

Cory Sullivan was released by the Dodgers.

Terry Tiffee was released by the Marlins.

Mike Cervenak (Marlins) was placed on the 7 day disabled list.

Phillies released:
RHP Leonel Bastidas
RHP Nate Bump
RHP Cody Fick
RHP Eric Pettis
LHP Matt Way
C Nolan Clark
C Jeff Lanning
C Chabriel Pizarro
OF Luis Amaro
OF Brent Clevlen
OF Bill Rice

Phillies placed on 7-day disabled list:
RHP Chance Chapman
RHP Jordan Ellis
RHP Drew Naylor
RHP Adam Worthington
LHP Nick Hernandez
LHP Mario Hollands
2B Harold Garcia
OF Anthony Hewitt

Keoni De Renne (Pirates) was placed on the 7 day disabled list.

Dennis Tankersley (No connection with the IronPigs but with a name like that, resembling Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersly, you could imagine the fun his opponent’s fans have) was released by the Padres.

Aaron Heilman was released from the Mariners.

Nelson Figueroa was released from the Blue Jays.

Brian Bocock (Blue Jays) was placed on the 7 day disabled list.

Chad Durbin was released from the Nationals.

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April 8, 2012 · 6:25 pm

Back to .500! Steelhawks Take 2-0 Lead in 222 Bangathon!

The Lehigh Valley Steelhawks defeated the Reading Express earlier this season at Stabler Arena and were looking to go ahead 2-0 in the 2nd of 4 games vs. their neighbors down route 222.

A Noise Nation contingent made the trip to Reading, the first at Sovereign Center for most of us, and we were impressed. Several parking garages nearby offered safe parking for $5 (discounted this season for Express and Royal’s hockey games) and it was a short walk to the arena.

Inside we were greeted by friendly fans and employees alike. A little ribbing here and there but all in good fun.

Some things I like about the Sovereign Center:

– The cheesesteak. It was good. Very similiar to what is served at CCP. Sauce mixed in real chopped steak meat and the cheese wasn’t of the plastic yellow variety. (I’m more a provolone guy)

– There is a luxary box that looks just like someone’s back porch. It is beautiful. If I ever win the Powerball.. I’d reserve that one for life.

– The dangling scoreboard at mid-field was pulled into the rafters allowing long field goals.

Some things that the Allentown Arena could improve on looking at the Sovereign Center:

– Bigger and better placed video board

– Multiple entry points

– Better scoreboards. Granted, those from last night were designed for hockey.. a more multi-function scoreboard will be appreciated.

Overall, a fun time.

We ran into our friend Willie the Clown! It’s great to see others out there who share our passion for local sports. The Reading Express group is known as the “Da Railyard” and is just about as loud as us during games.

Two peas in a pod, Willie the Clown and Jimmy T!

Game review courtesy of the Steelhawks:

After a long bye week, following a tough 36-34 loss at the hands of the Bloomington Edge, the Steelhawks headed across Rte. 222 to face their cross town rivals the Reading Express (0-5) for the second of four matchups on the 2012 season. The final result ended the same as the first meeting as the Steelhawks were able to even their record at 3-3 with a hard fought 62-41 victory.

This game however, was vastly different then the first matchup in the first half. The Express this time were able to see their offense and Special Teams click early and went into half time with a 34-28 lead. The Express were able to return two kickoffs on the evening for scores, but were unable to stop the Steelhawks potent offense.

The ‘Hawks were lead by Quarterback Bryan Randall and standout Wide Receiver Irani DeAraujo Jr. on the night. DeAraujo put in one of the top performances on the year offensively hauling in 12 Randall passes, for 134 yards and FIVE touchdowns. Randall finished the evening 23 of 33 passing for 236 yards and seven touchdown passes.

“Irani busted out in a big way tonight,” stated Steelhawks Head Coach Chris Thompson. “He and Randall were on the same page and were able to find some great throwing lanes and get the offense in a rhythm. The Express came in hungry in this game and gave us a run for our money, but I am very proud of the way our guys buckled down and made adjustments at halftime. One game at a time is our mentality going forward.”

The Steelhawks now set their sights on a rematch with the Cedar Rapids Titans back inside the Stabler Arena this coming Saturday night, April 14th at 7 p.m. The game is being deemed Youth Sports Night and is presented by TeamX Sports, the local chapter of NFL Flag Football.

I have to say the game was hard fought and although the final score leaned heavily to Lehigh Valley, it wasn’t until late in the third quarter before the game was out of hand.

Another great time and I encourage you to check out this exciting sport!

ScreecH!

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Filed under Noise Nation-Dan, Steel Hawks

April 7, 2012 · 9:17 pm

‘Pigs vs. PawSox – Game 2 – The Revenge

The IronPigs Tom “Life is a Highway”* Cochran and rightie prospect Alex Wilson for Pawtucket began on the Hill. Dom Brown gets the start in LF, Mitchell in CF, and Montanez in RF, Frandsen, Thompson, Kratz get the rest.

This being Coach Sandberg’s fourth different line-up in as many days hopefully the ‘Pigs can earn the split in chilly Rhode Island.

TOP 1 (‘Pigs jump to early lead)

Andres Blanco (SS) singled and advanced to 3rd on a balk and then a wild pitch and and scored on a sac fly by Lou Montanez (CF). Pigs lead 1-0.

Joe Thurston (2B) flied out to center Hector Luna (3B) goes down swinging to end the inning.

Top 2 (Play at the Plate)

Dom Brown lead off with a walk and moved to 2nd on a single by Cody Overbeck to left, a 2nd wild pitch of the game moves up the runners.

Derrick Mitchell strikes out swinging.

Tuffy Gosewhisch launches what was surely a sac fly to right to score another ‘Pigs run but Alex Hassan (RF) gunned down Dom Brown at home on a strong throw to home ending the inning. The MiLB TV replay appeared to show Brown slide under that tag. ‘Pigs 1-0

Bottom 2 (It’s all tied up)

Mauro Gomez (1B) takes a 0-2 pitch and launches it over the left field fence to bring the PawSox even, 1-1.

Will Middlebrooks (3B) struck out swinging.

Jason Repko (DH) bunt singles to pitcher Cochran and he tosses it down the right field line moving Repko to 2nd.

Che-Hsuan Lin (CF) popped out in fair territory on a shot up the elevator shaft for the 2nd out.

Luis Exposito (C) flied out to center to end the inning. Pigs 1 – Sox 1

Top 3 (Blanco blanked)

Andres Blanco (SS) got his 2nd hit with a liner to right and is LOB following 3 straight outs.

Bottom 3 (Sox take the lead)

Alex Hassan was the recipient of the first official walk of the 2012 season. Third baseman Hector Luna made a great backhand stab off the bat of Pedro Ciriaco (SS) to punch out the speedy Hassan at 2nd.

Ciriaco moved to 2nd when Cochran hits a piece of fuzz on Nate Spears, (2B) jersey for a HBP.

Daniel Nava (LF) ripped a pitch to left and a poor throw by Dom Brown results in Ciriaco scoring and the first lead for Pawtucket, 2-1.

Gomez flies out to Brown in left for the 2nd out. Sox are still up 2-1.

Bottom 4 (Super-Tuff)

“You don’t step on super-man’s cape, you don’t spit in the wind and you don’t run on Tuffy Gosewisch”*. Tuffy with a strong (SO) / throw out double play to punch out Jason Repko (DH) on a caught stealing – 2 out.

Cochran, after surrendering 2 walks to Exposito and Hassan escaped further damage with a charging play and throw to first by second baseman Joe Thurston off the bat of Pedro Ciriaco.

Top 6 (Dom Brown – Redemption)

Right-hander Chorye Spoon now pitching for the PawSox.

Andres Blanco grounds out to second baseman Nate Spears. 1-out

Two walks to Thurston and Montanez lead off the 6th bringing former Pig Killer Hector Luna to the plate. The runners advanced on a passed ball with runners on 2nd and 3rd and Luna strikes out – two down.

Dom Brown came through with two huge RBIs on his first hit of 2012 after chopping a grounder up the middle past the diving Ciriaco. Let’s hope that’s the beginning of Dom Brown’s come-back year!

Overbeck grounds out to end the inning. Pigs up 3-2.

Bottom 6 (Horst Power)

Lefty Jeremy Horst takes the hill to make his IronPigs debut.

Jason Repko struck out swinging. 1-down

Horst ranges to his right and makes a strong throw to spank out the swift a foot Che-Hsuan Lin. 2-down

Exposito – Cut on and missed for the easy 3-up 3-down for Jeremy Horst.

Pigs 3 – Sox 2

Top 7 (3 LOB – RISP – again)

Derrick Mitchell lead off with a perfect bunt single past the pitcher.

Tuffy Gosewisch struck out swinging – Mitchell is on second after a stolen base.

Suomi goes down swinging. 2 down

Pitching change – Will Inman (right-hander) on the hill for Pawtucket to face Andres Blanco.