Category Archives: Kram’s Korner – From the Club Level

The cold breeze wasn’t enough to cool off the hot-hitting Buffalo Bison, and the home-town ‘Pigs lost both ends of an evening doubleheader.

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As we whittle away at the remaining starters who could join Philadelphia for Monday evening’s start against Pittsburgh, Ethan Martin took the mound and eliminated himself from contention.  Of course, he was eliminated by virtue of starting pitching, but he struggled with his control as well.  That was the “book” on Ethan; he’s got great “stuff” but will sometimes suffer if he can’t locate the pitches properly.  This seemed to be the case Saturday in the early game, as many of his off-speed offerings were wild-high.  And it wasn’t just that the high off-speed pitches were there to hit, it was that they were so obviously high that the Bison hitters were able to lay off them and wait for a fastball in the strike zone to swing at.  Martin was able to throw the heater for a strike, but didn’t have the benefit of off-balance hitters, and they made him pay.  He surrendered five hits and four free-passes (plus a hit batsman) which lead to seven runs, all earned.  Justin Friend relieved him and allowed two inherited runners to score, plus one of his own over two innings.

Ethan seemed to be in good spirits when we met him briefly after the second game.  I would expect the young starter will continue to work on his craft and his day to be called up to help Philadelphia will come soon enough.

The ‘Pigs were able to get some hits, draw some walks, and have some chances–but just weren’t able to capitalize on them.  Cody Overbeck went 2/3 with 2 RBI on a homer and a double, but was thrown out at the plate.  Darrin Ruf struck out twice on the big looping curves from former ‘Pig Dave Bush to leave four on base.  Cody Asche went 2/3 to bring his average up to .260 on the season.

Nevertheless, the Home Team was able to bring the tying run to the plate with the bases loaded in the bottom-half of the final-inning seventh in the form of outfielder Leandro Castro.  I have to say I’ve been impressed with the young outfielder thus far this season.  But had I been the manager, I probably would have inserted Josh Fields as a pinch-hitter and told him to either hit a grand-slam or strike out trying.  Brundage sent Castro up, though, and he put a charge into a 2-1 pitch.  It wasn’t quite high enough to get into the wind stream, and was caught at the warning track in left-center.  It brought 9,000 of us at Coca Cola Park to our feet, though.  Hats off to Leandro for giving it his best!

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The second game began with spot-starter Zach Miner on the mound.  While starter BJ Rosenberg was on normal rest to have started the game, it was pointed out on the radio broadcast the other day that if a “bullpen” day is in order, it might be easier to have it in a seven-inning game rather than a nine-inning game.  Miner started shaky, yielding a few walks before getting a pep-talk from pitching coach Ray Burris in the first inning with the bases loaded and no outs.  Whatever the pitching guru said to Zach, it worked.  He extracted himself from the situation with a strikeout, a pop-up and a come-backer.  He then went on to pitch two more innings of no-hit ball.  Justin De Fratus then came in for innings four and five and scattered three hits and two walks to go along with three strikeouts, but allowed no runs as the IronPigs nursed a 1-0 lead.  Gillies had drawn a walk, stolen second, and easily scored on a Cesar Hernandez single.

The red-hot Bisons don’t go away that easily, though.  While the two runs surrendered by reliever Mike Stutes were listed as “earned” it sure didn’t feel that way as the ‘Pigs worked their way up to four errors in the shortened game.  Jake Diekman allowed an inherited runner to score as he pitched for the last out in the top of the seventh.

Once again, the ‘Pigs had a chance in the home half:  they had runners on second and third–enough to walk off down 2-1–and the mighty Cesar couldn’t come through.

Alas, it wasn’t meant to be on the clear and blustery evening, but our young club showed that they could play with experienced and talented AAA players from the first-place Blue Jays’ farm team.

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Once again, heightened security was present at the park as bags were inspected and officers discretely patrolled the park.  “Sweet Caroline” made an appearance and the 9,000 in attendance enjoyed the evening.  Many left after the first game, but as always, faithful were on hand until the last out was made 14 innings later.  Quality glass pint glasses with John Mayberry Jr.’s likeness were distributed, and folks with an eye on Philadelphia lamented Cliff Lee’s difficult night.  I was following the SteelHawks game via Twitter updates, and was disappointed to learn of another narrow loss in a very high-scoring game.

But today’s another day.  BJ Rosenberg is set to take the mound in an afternoon game and the sun is out.  Pending a change, I’d guess Tyler Cloyd–now the scheduled Monday starter–will be called to Philadelphia with Jon Pettibone moving up to take the Monday AM-start in Allentown on regular rest.  Perhaps Tom Cochran will move up from Reading to take Cloyd’s spot.  But we shall see.

It’s dog day today, and knit caps will be distributed to the first 3,000 adult humans.  The Bisons don’t have a projected starter, so perhaps we can get a win from them.

Put on your Sunday vests.  Put on your powder blues.  Let’s get out there and show why we’re the best fans in the MiLB.

See you at the park,

@Kram209

Friday Night Fireworks, photo courtesy ironpigsbaseball.com

The IronPigs will open a “wrap-around” series with the Buffalo Bison tonight with a 7:05 first pitch–weather permitting.  As of this writing, we’re still expecting Ethan Martin (could be held back by the Lannan/Savery spot in Philly) versus old friend Dave Bush (could be held back by rain).  The Bisons scored 27 runs yesterday, and the IronPigs 14–so no doubt we’re in for a pitcher’s duel tonight if they can get this one in.   The Bison are now the AAA affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, with the Mets having been exiled to Las Vegas.  Some will remember the days when Syracuse was the Jays affiliate….

Also, there will be NoiseNation presence in the Hot Corner tonight, as we prepare for a full review of the new seats and amenities available there.

As mentioned above, weather may be a factor this evening, while the rest of the weekend looks OK.  One strategy is to remain at home until social media informs you that the tarps are coming off.  That will allow you approximately 30 minutes to get to the park while they line the field.  As per usual though–and barring extraordinary weather happenings–they will open the doors.  Stay tuned!

Our new executive chef begins to flex his culinary muscles for this second home stand with a few new offerings at the Pig Stop.  First up on Friday is “The Last Call” – Bourbon BBQ Chicken, Cheddar-Jack Cheese, Char-grilled Jalapeno & Coleslaw on Panini-pressed french bread.  Only $6.00!

John Mayberry, Jr. commemorative pint glass, picture courtesy @porkcenter

Saturday evening first pitch looks to be 6:35PM barring a double-header addition from the Friday game. Projected starter for the ‘Pigs is BJ Rosenberg.  The Bison do not have a projected starter at this time.  It’s John Mayberry Jr. pint glass night for the first 3,000 adults.  Also on Saturday, authentic game-worn road jerseys will be auctioned to benefit ironpigscharities.

Saturday night at the PigStop:  “The Damn Yankee” – Sliced Meatloaf, French Fried Onions, Cheddar Cheese & stone-ground Dijonaise on sourdough for $7.00.

Knit Cap, photo courtesy @porkcenter

Sunday is knit cap day with a 1:35 first pitch (barring double-header, yadda, yadda) for the first 3,000 adults.  It’s also dog day in the park.  The IronPigs look to send Tyler Cloyd to the mound if things go as planned, to face RHP Claudio Vargas.

At the PigStop: “The Jackhammer” – Honey Cured Ham, Pepper-Jack Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato & Chipotle Mayo on  a Wrap.  $6.50

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Monday is an “Education” day (I’m still unsure about the actual education going on, but I don’t have a problem with it per se) with the usual 10:35AM start.  It works well as a “get away” day for the ‘Pigs as they get set for the far-western road trip to Indianapolis and Louisville.  I do plan on stopping by for only me second ever early day game–the last was the Elarton “beginning of the end” game–I think versus Brundage’s Gwinnett team last year.  I’m hoping for a better result this time.  Jon Pettibone is scheduled to take the mound.

I’m also hoping they reconsider opening the PigStop for some omelets   The PigStop is to be closed on Monday, which is disappointing as a nice omlet and some coffee would be great when I arrive around 10:00!  Side note: the PigStop has added a “coffee bar” with flavors and whatnot.  It’s a great idea; I hope it continues–especially in the MORNING!

Check in for updates as the weekend progresses.  We may add some audio updates too, and there’s an old podcast to be produced, to get you ready for the games.

Please remember to vote every day in the blog contest; we appreciate it!

See you at the park,

@Kram209

The Pawtucket RedSox are undefeated–unless they have to play the IronPigs.  The IronPigs took another from the 8-2 PawSox this afternoon as the sounds of screaming school children filled our computers, streaming audio and video of an early afternoon game.

Jon Pettibone got the start for the IronPigs and struggled with his control at times.  He made a lot of good pitches for strikes, but narrowly missed some others which led to two walks and seven hits over the first four innings, to go with three strikeouts.  This yielded four runs–earned–for Pawtucket.

Pettibone was to face off against knuckleballer Steven Wright who flummoxed us pretty good on the home end of this home-and-home April series.  However, Wright was a late scratch with speculation that he may be called to Boston.  Chris Hernandez was moved up to take the start against the IronPigs. 

The change in pitchers was fortunate for young outfielder Leandro Castro, who was due to get a day off.  He was added to the lineup batting second and playing Right Field.  He e to crush a long drive to center which required a Revere-esque play by Pawtucket Center Fielder Mitch Maier.  Then, he added a three run line-drive home run and a double with run scored. 

Tommy Joseph also added a three-run dinger, and Overbeck had a round-tripper as well.  Justin Friend relieved Pettibone and went two and 2/3 yeilding two more runs for the Red Sox AAA affiliate.  While he doesn’t normally pitch that many innings, the IronPigs are preparing for a “bullpen” day tomorrow with Cesar Jimenez getting the start.

Tyson Gillies got two hits to get his average back to triple digits; however, was picked off twice while on base.  The first time, he was sent on a hit and run but left early and got nabbed.  The second time was a more traditional pick-off at first.  I’ve gotta feel for Tyson as it seems he’s trying too hard.  Perhaps it’s time for a day off for him as he continues to try to adjust to his new batting instruction as well  as the AAA game.  We’re still pulling for him!

Jake Diekman worked a clean 1.1 with but one walk to go with two strikeouts.  With the score now 8-6, it was up to Michael Stutes to close down the heart of the order–although three-hole hitter and rehab player David Ortiz was lifted for a pinch hitter after going oh-for-four.  Gillies with a nice play in Center, then Lavarnway with a can of corn to Castro and a three pitch K of Brentz.  Save Stutes!

The ‘Pigs are now above .500 for the first time in the Brundage era!  They’ll face off again with the PawSox tomorrow at 6:15PM.

Recorded via SoundCloud with the help of Decal’s preview and Matt’s Game Notes:

(let’s see how this works)

oh, and remember to VOTE!

The IronPigs got their first big win last night in walk-off fashion.  Here are some observations from around the park:

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BASEBALL:

• Young Adam Morgan pitched very well.  Put the emphasis on “pitched.”  His fastball was mostly 92-93 but touched 95 once and 97 once–not that I trust the Coca Cola Park radar gun.  The real story was that he used all his pitches and kept the red-hot Syracuse hitters off-balance.  He made one big mistake:  a fastball down the middle I believe, but overall looked really good.  Adam just turned 23–not 26 as a local newspaper printed this morning.  That’s a big difference when we’re talking about a guy who could be a fixture in the Phillies’ rotation before too long.
  

  (c) Cheryl Pursell

• I’ve got to give some credit to Lerud, too.  It seemed he called a really good game for all the pitchers.
• Heard from behind me tonight, regarding the Chiefs:   “Wow, this guy’s hitting .750”  “Hey, they’re all hitting .750”
• That’s what happens when you’re down 22-2 after the first two games of the season.
• But a win today gets the split.  So here we go!
• Ethan Martin on the hill for the ‘Pigs.  The challenge for him is hitting his spots.  Look for him to avoid walking batters early.  He did very very well on Tuesday evening, so I’m hopeful.
• Darin Ruf mad a diving catch in left field early in the game to save a couple runs.  There were guys on base and two outs.  He face planted at the end of it, too.  Despite the nice play, a guy behind Cheryl was riding him all night.  Golly.  Keep it positive, she says, and I would agree.
  

  Darin Ruf
  (c) Cheryl Pursell

AROUND THE PARK

• The frozen yogurt bar is really cool.  You pay by the ounce, and it’s a little pricey (what isn’t?), but a top addition to Coca Cola Park for sure.  That place is going to be mobbed when it gets warmer.  Even the line they had set up will get quickly filled, I predict.  Six flavors and mixtures at each of three machines equals 9 yogurt choices.  Then a station for chunky toppings (C chose brownie bits) and then candy and sprinkles (C chose gummy worms) and finally syrups and hot fudge or caramel.  The cups are big, which is good to hold all the stuff, but even a relatively conservative “sundae” was $6-$7.  I advise: go easy.
• “Where’s DiPro?”  That’s what the first four people I talked to at the park asked me.  Bartenders, Ushers, Fans, everybody.  Crimony, brother, check in or something.  🙂
  

  THERE HE IS!

• A $0.99 fee was added to my Bypass order.  Two years ago it was the norm, but last year in the club level there was no fee.  Probably just to get me hooked.  No matter, but I noticed it!
• How many of us have Sunday vests?  Sunday hats?  Powder blues?  I’m calling for Sunday vests or powder blues today, if you’ve got ’em.  This will be the first Sunday for the IronPigs’ powder blues.
• I overheard a gentleman describing the urinal games to his party.  None of them had heard of it before.  Goodness.
• It looks like ‘Hot Corner’ tickets are available for a lot of the upcoming games.  Look for a full review of the seats after the next home stand, but in the mean time, if you need seats, give it a look.  Early reviews are extremely promising.

IN PICTURES

(As always, major thanks to Cheryl…)

Hernandez with an early game triple
(c) Cheryl Pursell

Cody Asche at the plate
(c) Cheryl Pursell

GREAT shot of Castro’s infield double. THAT is why you hustle!
(c) Cheryl Pursell

Stutes, in relief
(c) Cheryl Pursell

Savery gets the win!
(c) Cheryl Pursell

And, the walk off. One of my favorite sights to see at Coca Cola Park!
(c) Cheryl Pursell

See you at the park,

@Kram209