Both DK and Ed Price at FanHouse are reporting that nothing is imminent on the Freddy Sanchez front. That doesn’t mean the Pirates aren’t pushing hard; it’s seems reasonable that the announcement that Luis Cruz would be joining the Pirates from Indy was held until late last night just in case the Pirates had more roster holes to deal with.
Heading in the direction of the minor leagues, DK’s look at the international composition of the GCL Pirates is a must read. The part about Chris Aure’s tattoo had me laughing out loud last night.
Tim at B.U.C.C.O. Fans has a great look at last year’s State College debacle, what may have caused it, and how those pitchers are faring this year.
Speaking of State College, comp pick Victor Black made a very nice start for them last night and has looked good in two outings so far. I just got an e-mail from a reader telling me his fastball topped out at 96 last night.
Moving up a level, can anyone remember the last time a Pirate minor league affiliate had as many interesting and legitimate prospects as the West Virginia Power? They’ve got Rudy Owens (10-1, 1.79 ERA, hasn’t allowed a run since June 6th), Tony Sanchez (10 hits in his first 26 at-bats with three doubles, three walks, and two strikeouts), Starling Marte (one of Rene Gayo’s signings, 20 years old, 18-for-47 in his first 12 games), Quinton Miller (one of last year’s above-slot signings who’s held his own in two starts, especially considering he won’t be 20 until November), and Robbie Grossman (I’m still quite impressed with his .371 OBP and 40(!) walks in about 220 PAs, especially for a 19-year-old), plus guys like Calvin Anderson and Quincy Latimore (who are at least intersting, if not legitimate prospects at this point). It’s like they’re a real minor league affiliate of a well-run baseball team!
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