Omaha lost their series finale in Iowa this afternoon by a 2-0 score.

The Storm Chasers actually out-hit the Cubs 5-4, but all five hits were singles. They went 0-for-5 with runners in scoring position, hit into two double plays, and struck out eight times.

Iowa’s two runs came via two solo homeruns: one in the 5th inning with two outs off starter (and loser) Justin Marks and the other off lefty reliever Donnie Joseph in the eighth. Marks allowed just three hits over six innings. He struck out six.

NW Arkansas ended their first half with a three game winning streak, as they beat Arkansas, 5-2.

Despite allowing another homerun, Jason Adam FINALLY picked up his first win of the season (and his first Double-A victory). He allowed two runs on eight hits and a walk over six innings. He struck out six. Scott Alexander picked up his first save of the season with three scoreless innings (though he did walk three and hit a batter).

The ball must have been flying out of the ballpark, as the Travelers hit one and the Naturals hit three. Matt Fields hit his first homerun of the game in the 2nd inning to give them the lead. Brett Eibner (2-for-4) hit a solo shot in the fifth to give them a 2-0 lead. Clinging to a 3-2 lead in the 8th inning. Fields connected for his second homerun of the game, this time a two-run shot. It was his 18th of the season.

Mandatory Credit: Minda Haas

Ventura allowed a one out solo homerun in the first inning and then did not allow another hit until back-to-back singles led off the fourth. He lasted five innings while striking out five.Will Smith followed with three scoreless innings of relief. He struck out four.

The Storm Chasers collected just five hits, two from Quintin Berry (who also drove in two runs in the fourth).

NW Arkansas won in 13 innings in Arkansas, 3-2. Rey Navarro hit his second solo homerun of the game in the top of the 13th to put the Naturals ahead.

All three of the Naturals run came via the long ball (Manny Pina hit a solo homerun in the fifth).

First baseman Mitch Canham, who went 2-for-5 at the plate, earned the win with two scoreless innings of relief. It was his second relief appearance of the season and he threw just 23 pitches. Whit Merrifield, who started the game at second base, picked up the save with a perfect inning of relief. He threw just 14 pitches.

Wilmington lost their first half finale, 7-0 to Winston-Salem. How bad has it been this season against the Dash? They are just 2-12 against them and have been out-scored 67-29.

The Blue Rocks collected just four hits, all singles.

Two of the newer Blue Rocks pitchers came on in relief of loser Tyler Sample. Daniel Hernandez is back for his second stint of the season and allowed three runs on five hits and three walks over three innings. Ben Tomchick, who was just added on Saturday night at game time, threw a scoreless ninth inning (his first appearance of the season).

After battling back to tie the game in the eighth, Lexington lost in 11 innings, 8-7 on a walk off homerun to lead off the bottom of the inning.

The Legends collected 17 hits (four for extra bases), but went just 3-for-13 with runners in scoring position. Bubba Starling went 5-for-5 but did not score a run. Raul Mondesi went 4-for-6 with two runs scored and two RBIs. He cleared the bases in the 8th inning with a two out single (and helped out by a fielding error in center field).

Mark Peterson pitched three scoreless innings of relief (the eighth through the tenth).

The Storm Chasers also lost the second game, by an 8-7 score. They had the go ahead run on second base in the top of the ninth, but Adam Moore struck out and Quintin Berry grounded out to end the game. Moore had already drive in three runs on three hits (including a homerun), but struck out three times. Berry had two hits.

It was a rough night for the first three Omaha pitchers, all with big league experience. Danny Duffy made the rehab start and allowed two runs on four hits and three walks over just three innings. He struck out five (68 pitches, 37 strikes). Everett Teaford was next and allowed four runs (two after he exited) on five hits and three walks over 2.2 innings. He also struck out five. Louis Coleman entered in the sixth and allowed both of his inherited runners to score, along with two of his own on a grand slam.

Edwin Carl (Jen Nevius)

NW Arkansas lost the first game of their doubleheader to Springfield, 8-2. The Cardinals scored five runs over the final two innings to win. The Naturals scored their two runs in the bottom of the seventh.

Cheslor Cuthbert collected his first Double-A hit, a double in the seventh. He also scored in that inning.

The second game of the doubleheader was delayed in the fifth, but the Naturals won 6-1. Edwin Carl made the spot start and pitched four scoreless innings. Scott Alexander made his Double-A debut and picked up the win, though he allowed the lone Cardinals run. Zach Jackson picked up his fifth save with two scoreless innings of relief.

Manny Pina hit a solo homerun in the third and Matt Fields hit a solo homerun in the fourth (his 16th of the season). Pina went 2-for-2 with three RBIs.

Wilmington finally defeated Winston-Salem and eliminated the Dash from the first half crown. The Blue Rocks won 3-2.

Sam Selman rebounded from his rough start in Salem when he did not record an out in the first. His first and final three innings were very good, but the three in between were a little rough. However, he escaped. Selman allowed two runs (one earned) on three hits and four walks over six innings. Listen to what Selman had to say following the game:

I had the chance to finally see Spencer Patton pitch in relief and I was impressed. He is one of the best relievers in the Carolina League. His curveball was good (around 86) and he pumped his fastball around 93. Patton needed just nine pitches in the 8th inning, but had a tougher time in the ninth. With two outs and a runner on first base, Dash leadoff hitter (and prospect) Joey DeMichele fouled off pitch after pitch before finally flying out to end the game (it was a 13 pitch at-bat).

The Blue Rocks offense gave Selman a 3-0, started with Denis Raben’s solo homerun in the second. It was his first since signing with the Royals and he received the silent treatment when he first entered the dugout. Daniel Mateo added a two-run shot in the third. They only had three baserunners after that and two were erased on inning ending double plays.

Ethan Chapman picked up his first hit in High-A, a single in the eighth.

Lexington lost to Asheville, 6-1. The Tourists scored four runs in the bottom of the third and never looked back.

After Daniel Stumpf struggled over 4.2 innings, Kevin Allen threw 2.1 scoreless innings of relief. Cory Hall followed with a perfect inning of relief.

Shortstop Raul Mondesi went 2-for-4 in his first game after being added to the South Atlantic League All-Star team. The rest of the team collected five hits.

Brooks Pounders in 2012 with Wilmington (Jen Nevius)

NW Arkansas lost late to Springfield, 8-4. That negated the solid start from Brooks Pounders, who allowed two runs on four hits and two walks over seven innings. He struck out four.

The Naturals collected 14 hits, but went just 2-for-12 with 11 strikeouts. Orlando Calixte (who went 3-for-5) and Brett Eibner (2-for-4) each hit solo homeruns. Matt Fields and Roman Hernandez each collected two hits and Brian Fletcher went 3-for-4.

*Third baseman Cheslor Cuthbert made his Double-A debut and went 0-for-3 with an RBI and two strikeouts. He also committed an error. To make room for both Cuthbert and reliever Scott Alexander, infielder Angel Franco was placed on the DL and reliever Matt Ridings was released.

Wilmington‘s comeback fell short, as they once again lost to Winston-Salem. This time by a 6-5 score. Jared Schlehuber‘s bases clearing double cut the deficit to one with two outs, but Dennis Raben struck out to end the game (he did have two hits).

Kyle Smith struggled in his final start before the All-Star break. He allowed four runs on five hits and three walks over just 3.1 innings. He also allowed two homeruns.

On offense, Kenny Swab, Schlehuber, and Raben each picked up two hits. Ethan Chapman made his High-A debut and went 0-for-2 with three walks while batting ninth.

Lexington had a 2-0 lead, but lost late in Asheville, 3-2.

The Legends collected six hits, two from Mark Threlkeld, who homered. However they committed three errors, which hurt the solid start by Christian Binford. He allowed three runs (one earned) on ten hits over seven innings.

To replace the departed, the Blue Rocks received outfielder Ethan Chapman and right-handed reliever Daniel Hernandez from Lexington, first baseman Dennis Raben from the independent Lincoln Saltdogs, and utility infielder Alex McClure from NW Arkansas. Hernandez, Raben, and McClure all saw action on Thursday night.

Now to the games…

Mandatory Credit: Minda Haas

Omaha held on to beat Nashville, 4-2.

The Storm Chasers led 2-1 after the first inning on Xavier Nady‘s two out homerun. Quintin Berry gave them some insurance with his own two-run homerun in the eighth. That was needed, as the Sounds scored a run in the ninth and had another runner in scoring position.

Chris Dwyer was dominant in picking up his fifth win of the season. He allowed one run on nine hits over seven innings while striking out seven. He threw 70 of his 107 pitches for strikes.

NW Arkansas won both games of their doubleheader against Springfield. They took Game 1, 8-1. Matt Fields hit a two out, two-run homerun in the first and the Naturals never looked back.

Fields, Yem Prades, Rey Navarro, and Whit Merrifield each collected two hits. Fields drove in four.

Sugar Ray Marimon was dominant in the complete game win. He allowed one run on five hits and a walk. He struck out eight. Marimon threw 97 pitches, 70 for strikes.

In Game 2, the Naturals won 3-2. They scored all of their runs in the third.

With two outs and nobody on base in the 3rd inning, Merrifield singled and scored on Brett Eibner‘s triple. He would score on Orlando Calixte‘s second homerun of the season.

Aaron Brooks was solid yet again in his second Double-A start. He allowed one run on seven hits over six innings. It got interesting in the ninth when new closer Zach Jackson allowed a run on six hits. The Cardinals had the tying run on second base (and the go ahead run on first), but Jackson induced a ground out to end the game.

On the night that Wilmington announced that they will host the 2014 California-Carolina League All-Star Game, the Blue Rocks lost to Winston-Salem, 5-3 in 11 innings.

In the 7th inning, Jack Lopez stole home to give the Blue Rocks the 3-1 lead (his second stolen base). However, the Dash scored two runs in the top of the ninth and two more in the top of the 11th.

Kellen Moen gave the a Blue Rocks solid spot start in replacing John Lamb (no word on why he didn’t start). Moen allowed one run on four hits and a walk over five innings. He struck out four. Hernandez was solid, as he walked two over two scoreless innings of relief. Then Cody Fassold and Robinson Yambati gave up the four late Dash runs.

Raben started at first base and went 1-for-5 while grounding into a double play. McClure started at shortstop (batting second) and went 1-for-4 with two strikeouts.

Lexington lost in walk off fashion in Asheville, 7-6. The Tourists scored three runs in the bottom of the ninth, capped by a game-winning two-run double with two outs.

Four of the Legends six runs came via two-run homeruns from Mark Donato and Cam Gallagher (his first of the season).

The Asheville comeback negated the solid start from Miguel Almonte, who allowed two runs on six hits and a walk over five innings. He struck out five.

Donato and Fred Ford each collected two hits in the loss. Alex Hudak came off the bench and went 0-for-2 with two strikeouts.

It was another rough start for Justin Marks, who allowed all five runs on four hits and five walks over five innings. Francisley Bueno pitched two scoreless innings of relief with four strikeouts. Will Smith continued his successful transition to the bullpen with a hitless inning of relief.

The Storm Chasers out-hit the Sounds (10-7), but went just 4-for-16 with runners in scoring position. Only one of the hits went for extra bases. Christian Colon and Willy Taveras each picked up three hits. Colon drove in two runs.

NW Arkansas lost their opener to Springfield by a 9-5 final.

Jason Adam lost his eighth game of the season, as he allowed five runs (two earned) on nine hits and two walks over five innings. He did commit an error and allowed a two out, two-run homerun in the fourth to give the Cardinals the 4-0 lead.

The Naturals collected ten hits, but went just 2-for-14 with runners in scoring position. Brett Eibner, Roman Hernandez (who did not start), and Angel Franco each collected two hits. Franco drove in three runs, including a two-run triple in the eighth.

Kyle Zimmer (Jen Nevius)

Kyle Zimmer finally picked up his first win of the season, as Wilmington salvaged the road finale with a 9-5 win in Salem. Zimmer was solid, as he allowed two runs on six hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out four. He allowed a single run in the bottom of the first (on three hits and a walk) and another in his final inning.

The Blue Rocks collected 17 hits in the win, though only two went for extra bases. Parker Morin went 4-for-5 with three RBIs. Lane Adams and Geulin Beltre each collected three hits. Justin Trapp and Jared Schlehuber each picked up two hits.

The Blue Rocks were eliminated from winning the first half, but they could ruin the playoff chances of Winston-Salem, who they welcome to town for four games beginning on Thursday night. The Dash are two games back in the Southern Division.

Lexington lost their first half home finale to Rome, 3-2.

Alec Mills lost his first game as a starter, allowing two runs on two hits and a walk over 4.1 innings. He did strike out five. Both runs scored after Mills was pulled in the fifth (on bases loaded walks). Kevin Allen made his first appearance of the season and allowed one run on two hits and a walk over two innings. Mark Peterson returned from the DL to pitch a perfect ninth inning.

The Legends collected just two hits for the second consecutive game. Fred Ford (who also had one of the hits last night) and Kenny Diekroeger collected the two singles.

They were also officially eliminated from the first half crown, but finish up the first half in Asheville beginning Thursday night.

Yordano Ventura made his second straight start, which was yet again not a great one. He lasted just 4.2 innings and left with two men on base (George Sherrill did not allow them to score). Ventura allowed all five runs on eight hits (including a three-run homerun) and two walks while striking out five. 59 of his 93 pitches were strikes. Brian Sanches threw two perfect innings of relief at the end.

Jarrod Dyson has continued a very good rehab stint with the Storm Chasers, as he went 2-for-4.

May 26, 2012; Baltimore, MD, USA; Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Felipe Paulino (59) pitches in the third inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports

The game was scoreless until the eighth, but NW Arkansas lost, 3-2. The first hit of the game came via a one out double from Orlando Calixte in the fourth (one of his two doubles).

Noel Arguelles left with the bases loaded in the eighth, but Santiago Garrido entered and allowed all three runs to score. In the bottom of the ninth, the Naturals had the tying run on second base with one out, but could not come up with the clutch hit.

Felipe Paulino began his rehab stint with the Naturals with five scoreless innings. He did not allow a hit until the fifth, when he allowed two singles. He did struggle a bit in the first, when he walked, two, but settled down from there. Paulino ended up striking out six.

*The Texas League All-Stars were announced earlier in the day, as the Naturals play host. Despite having the worst team, four players will be representing: Calixte will be starting at shortstop, with Mitch Canham and Angel Franco coming off the bench. Garrido will be coming out of the bullpen.

Wilmington has now lost five in a row on this road trip, as they lost 3-1 in Salem. At least they received a solid start this time.

Tyler Sample lasted five innings. He allowed three runs (two earned) on six hits, four walks, and two hit batters. He also allowed three stolen bases. Spencer Patton has been great for the Blue Rocks all season and kept it up tonight. He pitched the final three innings and struck out four (he allowed four hits).

The Blue Rocks offense collected six hits, but went 2-for-6 with runners in scoring position and were caught stealing twice.

Lexington welcomed Crawford Simmons back from the DL (and two more), but they lost 4-1. Simmons was making his first appearance since 2011 (elbow injury). He allowed three runs on three hits and two walks over three innings.

The Legends offense collected just two hits, a single each from Fred Ford and Mark Threlkeld, who also drove in the lone run. Threlkeld was just activated off the DL from a broken arm when he was hit by a pitch in his first at-bat of the season. Catcher Cameron Gallagher returned from the DL (broken hand) and went 0-for-3 with a walk and a strikeout.

Danny Duffy struggled in his first rehab start in Triple-A. He allowed seven runs on seven hits and two walks over just 2.1 innings. However his bullpen did a good job of escaping jams.

Jarrod Dyson did not struggle in his rehab start. Batting leadoff for the Storm Chasers and playing centerfield, he went 3-for-3 with two walks and two runs scored. He also stole four bases (they stole a total of seven bases).

Omaha also hit three homeruns, two from Brett Hayes (who drove in four runs).

NW Arkansas has won three in a row, as they beat visiting Arkansas, 6-5. A four-run bottom of the third gave them the lead they would not relinquish.

In a bullpen game, JC Sulbaran picked up the win in relief of Andy Ferguson (3IP, 4H, 4R, 2ER, 2BB, 3K). Sulbaran had his best outing of the season, as he pitched four scoreless innings. He allowed two hits and a walk while striking out three.

Matt Fields (2-for-4) and Mitch Canham each drove in two runs. Juan Graterol returned to the Naturals and went 2-for-4 with a stolen base.

*In roster news, infielder Alex McClure was sent to Wilmington (replacing Graterol, who was never actually activated in Wilmington).

For the fourth straight game, the Wilmington starting pitcher had a rough outing. Tonight was the worst, as they lost 9-0 in Salem.

Sam Selman allowed eight runs (six runs) on five hits and two walks without recording an out. In that first inning, there was also a fielding error and a passed ball, as the Red Sox sent 12 men to the plate.

The Blue Rocks bullpen was stellar, but the offense could not get anything going. It started with Malcom Culver, who allowed an unearned run on two hits and two walks over 3.2 innings. He struck out four. Antonio Cruz followed with 2.1 scoreless innings with four strikeouts. Robinson Yambati allowed one hit over two shutout innings.

The Blue Rocks offense only collected five total hits.

Lexington came back with two runs in the bottom of the seventh to beat Rome, 3-2. Terrence Gore drove in both runs with a two out single (one of their five hits).

In the 4th inning, both teams traded leadoff solo homeruns (one by Bubba Starling).

Daniel Stumpf rebounded from his worst start of the season by picking up his fourth win of the season. He allowed two runs on just two hits and a walk over seven innings. He struck out six.

May 23, 2013; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals relief pitcher Louis Coleman (31) delivers a pitch in the ninth inning of the game against the Los Angeles Angels at Kauffman Stadium. The Angels won 5-4. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Four Storm Chasers pitchers combined in the shutout. Everett Teaford started and allowed two hits and three walks over four innings. Louis Coleman earned the win with 2.1 innings of relief. Will Smith followed with 1.2 perfect innings. He struck out two and threw 15 of his 20 pitches for strikes. Michael Mariot finished out the shutout with the final inning.

Omaha took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first on a ground out. Adam Moore hit a three-run homerun in their six-run 6th inning. Outfielder Jarrod Dyson went 0-for-3 with a walk, a strikeout, and a run scored while rehabbing.

NW Arkansas and Arkansas were in a battle of their offenses, with the Naturals coming back to win, 7-5. They tied it with two runs in the sixth and took the lead with two runs in the seventh on Yem Prades‘ single.

Sam Runion picked up the win with 3.1 scoreless innings of relief. He struck out three. Brian Fletcher has been on fire since his return from the DL. He went 2-for-3 with a homerun and a stolen base in the win.

*In roster news, utility man Whit Merrifield returned from the DL, but did not play.

Wilmington may have just seen their chances of winning the first half end in Winston-Salem, as they were swept with a 6-1 Sunday loss. The Blue Rocks dropped to six games back of first place and continue their road trip on Monday in Salem (their elimination number is three). It was the third straight poor start from their prospect pitchers.

This time it was All-Star Kyle Smith. He allowed all six runs on six hits and a walk over five innings. He struck out four.

The Blue Rocks offense out-hit the Dash 9-8, but went just 3-for-13 with runners in scoring position. Justin Trapp, Jared Schlehuber, and Tyler Chism each collected two hits. Their lone run scored on a sac fly.

Lexington had their second game of the week cancelled due to bad weather, this time in Augusta. The Legends now return home to play Rome for three games beginning on Monday. They are 4.5 games back of first place, but three games away from elimination.

Will Smith in Omaha. Photo by Minda Haas (mindahaas.net)

Louis Coleman did not have a successful return trip to the Storm Chasers. He entered with two men on base in the 6th inning with the game tied at 1-1. He allowed both of starter Justin Marks’ runs to score, along with one of his own. He walked three, including two with the bases loaded.

Will Smith has moved to the Omaha bullpen and pitched a perfect ninth inning with a strikeout. He threw 12 pitches, seven for strikes.

On offense, the Storm Chasers collected seven hits, but four were from Irving Falu. Quintin Berry made his first start and went 1-for-3 with two stolen bases.

NW Arkansas lost their series finale to Tulsa by an 8-1 score. Sugar Ray Marimon got the start and took his eighth loss, as he allowed three solo homeruns on the night (6IP, 7H, 4R, BB, 6K). Noel Arguelles pitched the final two innings and allowed four more runs.

The Naturals collected six hits, two from Yem Prades. He also scored their lone run in the 4th inning to make the score 2-1.

Wilmington was shut out in their first game in Winston-Salem by a 5-0 score. All five runs were scored in the bottom of the first.

Kyle Zimmer did not make it out of the first inning, as he only recorded two outs and left with two men in scoring position. He allowed all five runs on five hits, a walk, and a hit batter. Spencer Patton came in and got a strikeout (3.1IP, H, OR, OBB, 5K).

Offensively, the Blue Rocks collected five hits from five different hitters. The Dash starter, Chris Beck, pitched a complete game shutout (he was also named to the Carolina League All-Star team).

*In roster news, the Blue Rocks will welcome back catcher Juan Graterol. He caught 7 of Yordano Ventura’s last eight games in NW Arkansas.

*Right-hander Kyle Smith was the only Blue Rock named to the Carolina League All-Star team.

After Thursday night’s cancellation, Lexington headed to Augusta and lost, 4-0. The Legends collected just two hits, but committed three errors.

Bryan Brickhouse took the loss (one day after his 21st birthday), as he allowed one run on four hits and three walks over four innings. He struck out three.

Duffy made his final rehab start for NW Arkansas today in an 11-1 loss to Tulsa. He allowed three runs on five hits and a walk over four innings. He struck out six. With two outs in the third, he allowed a two-run homerun.

The rest of the Naturals pitching staff was lit up from the fifth to the seventh. They allowed eight runs. The lone Naturals run came on Brett Eibner‘s solo homerun, as they picked up just five hits.

After a solid start from Sam Selman, Wilmington beat Carolina, 6-4. After a perfect first inning, the Mudcats loaded the bases with nobody out. Selman escaped the jam. In the third, the Mudcats had runners at second and third base with one out and did not score. The lone run Selman allowed came after two Blue Rocks errors in the fourth.

Overall, Selman allowed one run on three hits over five innings. He struck out two and walked four (all on four pitches). Of his 89 pitches, 49 were strikes.

With two outs in the 4th inning, Tyler Chism came through with a two-run single. In the fifth, the Blue Rocks hit for the cycle. Daniel Mateo homered with one out, his fourth homerun of the season against the Mudcats (his second RBI of the game). With two outs, Jared Schlehuber tripled to dead center to drive in another run (it was a stand up triple for a guy with a bad heel).

Kellen Moen struggled over his two innings of work, before Scott Alexander struck out four over the final two innings to pick up the save.

Following the game, Mateo talked (through translator/hitting coach Julio Bruno) about his homerun and his success against the Mudcats:

Lexington beat Savannah, 4-0. Alec Mills was dominant in just his second start of the season. He pitched seven shutout innings and struck out seven.

The Sand Gnats collected all seven of their hits against Mills. Matthew Murray and Clayton Schulz pitched the final two innings, as Schulz struck out the side.

The middle of the Legends lineup (Mark Donato, Fred Ford, and Michael Antonio) went a combined 6-for-12 with two runs scored and two RBIs. Terrence Gore went 3-for-5.

The Storm Chasers lone run came via Xavier Nady‘s tenth homerun of the season.

Everett Teaford received the no-decision, as he allowed one run on three hits over five innings. He struck out four. Donnie Joseph took the loss, as he allowed the go ahead run in the top of the sixth. Michael Mariot pitched the final two innings while striking out two.

*In roster news, the KC Royals demoted both reliever Louis Coleman and catcher Adam Moore, while signing outfielder Quintin Berry and sending him to Omaha. Reliever Kelvin Herrera was promoted to the big leagues. They also added starter Yordano Ventura on Monday. So, they will need to make a few more moves because their roster is way over the limit.

Tulsa scored four runs in the bottom of the 4th to take the lead over NW Arkansas and held on for the 5-3 win. Two of the Naturals three runs came via solo homeruns from Yem Prades and Matt Fields.

All seven of the Naturals hits (two from Rey Navarro) came versus Drillers starter Roy Oswalt. Former Natural Cole White picked up the save with a perfect ninth.

Brooks Pounders took the loss, as he allowed five runs (four earned) on two hits and four walks over five innings. Matt Ridings and Sam Runion combined to throw three perfect innings of relief with three strikeouts.

*With Ventura’s promotion, the Naturals added starter Aaron Brooks from Wilmington. Most likely, he will fill right into Ventura’s spot in the rotation (they started on the same days).

Wilmington battled back to beat Carolina, 3-1. They trailed 1-0 until the seventh when Jack Lopez doubled in a run (one of his two hits). In the 8th inning, Cheslor Cuthbert drove in the go ahead run with a single (one of his three hits). The other run scored on a wild pitch.

Kyle Smith took the no decision, as he allowed one run on four hits and a walk over seven innings. He struck out four. Reliever Cody Fassold picked up the win with two perfect innings of relief.

After Lexington took a 2-0 lead in the first, Savannah put up a six-spot in the bottom of the 2nd inning and won 9-2.

Legends starter Daniel Stumpf went into tonight’s start with an ERA of 1.90. After going just four innings tonight, his ERA rose to 2.81. He walked five and allowed six hits.

It could have been worse, but outfielders Ethan Chapman (who collected two hits from the leadoff spot) and Bubba Starling threw runners out at the plate.

After starter Justin Marks allowed six runs in the second, the Omaha bullpen allowed just one more run on five hits over the game’s final five innings.

On offense, the Storm Chasers collected just three hits.

In Game 2, they were shut out once again, this time by a 5-0 final. Memphis once again put runs on the board in the second, this time they put up a three-spot.

Will Smith took the loss, as he allowed all five runs on five hits (two homeruns) and two walks over six innings. Kelvin Herrera pitched a perfect 7th inning with a strikeout (ten pitches, eight strikes).

The Storm Chasers once again only collected three hits. In the two games, Brett Hayes had two hits.

NW Arkansas ended their seven-game losing skid with a 6-5 win over San Antonio. It got a little dicey in the ninth, as the Missions had the tying run on third base, but Jon Keck struck out his final batter to end the game.

The Naturals collected ten hits, though only two went for extra bases. Four hitters collected nine of the ten hits. Rey Navarro went 3-for-4 with two runs scored. Leadoff hitter Brett Eibner went 2-for-4 with two RBIs. He also stole a base.

Wilmington lost their series to Frederick with a 5-3 Sunday loss. The Blue Rocks dropped to 3.5 games back of first place in the Northern Division of the Carolina League. The first half ends on June 16th and Wilmington does not play a divisional opponent the rest of the half.

The Keys scored four runs in the top of the 5th inning against Blue Rocks starter Kyle Zimmer. All four runs scored on a no out grand slam. Zimmer then retired the final six men he faced.

On offense for the Blue Rocks, Cheslor Cuthbert went 3-for-4 with two doubles and Tyler Chism hit his first homerun of the season (a solo shot in the fifth).

Lexington swept their four game series at home against Hagerstown with a 5-2 win. With the game tied at 2-2, the Legends scored three runs in the bottom of the eighth. They are 4.5 games back in the Southern Division of the South Atlantic League. However, they are in sixth place with the first half ending on June 16th.

Bubba Starling tripled in one run and Fred Ford doubled him in (Ford had two hits and scored two runs). Michael Antonio delivered a sac fly to finish the scoring in the eighth.

That late offense made a winner of Aroni Nina, who allowed a solo homerun over his 3.1 innings of relief. That was the only hit he allowed, to go along with two walks.

Danny Duffy made another rehab start for NW Arkansas, but the Naturals lost their sixth game in a row with a 7-2 loss. Duffy allowed two runs on five hits and one walk over 3.2 innings. He struck out five, but took the loss.

Unfortunately, his offense collected just five hits, two by Manny Pina. His bullpen also let him down (five runs allowed by three relievers).

The Naturals outfield did pick up two assists, with Carlo Testa throwing a runner out at the plate.

Wilmington lost their series opener at home against Northern Division foe Frederick, 2-1. The Keys scored single runs in the first two innings. The loss dropped them to three games back of first place for the first half title.

The Blue Rocks collected seven hits, all singles. Jared Schlehuber and Jack Lopez (the 5-6 hitters) went 4-for-8. Tyler Chism drove in their lone run in the 7th inning on a sac fly.

Brickhouse is one of many talented arms on the Lexington roster. (Photo Clinton Riddle)

Sam Selman took the loss, as he allowed two runs on six hits and two walks over five innings. He struck out five. Kellen Moen and Cody Fassold pitched the final four scoreless innings in relief.

Behind another solid start from Bryan Brickhouse, Lexington won 6-3. Brickhouse allowed two runs on seven hits and three walks over 5.1 innings. He struck out five.

Mark Donato hit a two-run homerun in the 2nd inning (one of his two hits) to give the Legends a lead they would never relinquish. The Legends collected 11 hits, as Kenny Diekroeger and Fred Ford each went 2-for-4.

Despite bad weather that continues to rock Oklahoma City, they played tonight and Omaha lost, 8-1.

Omaha starter Ryan Verdugo was hurt by his defense (five runs, two earned) over six innings. He also struggled with his command (four walks and just 55 strikes of his 105 pitches).

The Storm Chasers keep shuffling players around the field, none more than Johnny Giavotella. He started in left field and went 2-for-4. Problem is, he committed yet another error (his tenth of the season). Xavier Nady started at third base and hit a homerun to drive in their only run.

They only collected five hits, two for extra bases. They went 0-for-4 with runners in scoring position and walked twice.

NW Arkansas has lost five in a row and were swept by visiting Corpus Christi. They lost on Thursday by a 5-0 final.

Naturals starter Jason Adam tied a franchise record with 11 strikeouts, but allowed two homeruns (four total runs) in the loss.

The Naturals collected just three hits, two from Orlando Calixte. They struck out eight times, compared to just one walk (which was worked by Calixte).

Blue Rocks starter Kyle Smith during his May 1, 2013 start.

Wilmington held on for the 4-3 win in their finale in Carolina. They split the series and return home for seven games, starting with divisional rival Frederick on Friday night.

The Blue Rocks got on the board in the very first inning when Justin Trapp singled and Daniel Mateo homered for the 2-0 lead. They tacked on two more in the 3rd inning on Lane Adams‘ double. All three of them (the top three in the order) had two hits each.

Kyle Smith started and his lone blemish was a solo homerun in the 4th inning (6IP, 6H, R, BB, 7K). Robinson Yambati threw two perfect innings of relief and struck out four before Antonio Cruz struggled in the ninth.

The Blue Rocks collected seven hits and walked five times. They went just 2-for-11 with runners in scoring position and struck out 13 times.

*In case you missed it, the Blue Rocks added Tyler Sample from extended spring training. It is his third season in Wilmington. He started on Wednesday night and replaced reliever Spencer Patton on the roster. Patton was “sent” to rookie ball, despite being one of the Carolina League’s best relievers.

Lexington ended their four-game losing streak with a 5-3 win over visiting Hagerstown. After the Suns scored two runs in the top of the eighth, the Legends scored three runs in the bottom of the inning.

Alec Mills, who had been pitching out of the bullpen (six saves) started for the Legends and threw six shutout innings. He allowed just three hits while striking out five.

Mark Donato hit his first homerun of the season in the seventh (he had two hits) and Bubba Starling hit a two-run shot in the 8th inning that gave them the lead (his second homerun in his last two games started). He did however strike out three times.

The Legends went 2-for-9 with runners in scoring position. They collected eight hits (four for extra bases) and three walks. They also struck out nine times.

The Storm Chasers offense collected just three hits, two for extra bases. They did walk eight times. Willy Taveras tripled in a run in the 2nd inning with two outs. The other run scored on a wild pitch.

NW Arkansas lost to visiting Corpus Christi, 6-3. The Naturals led 3-1 heading into the top of the 7th inning when the Hooks scored five runs.

The Naturals collected seven hits, with the top two hitters, Brett Eibner and Orlando Calixte, going 5-for-8.

Noel Arguelles made the start but was pulled after three innings (1H, 0R, BB). Andy Ferguson allowed a solo homerun over 2.1 innings of relief before JC Sulbaran and Matt Ridings allowed the five runs. Sam Runion pitched two scoreless innings of relief.

*In roster news, pitcher Zach Jackson was added to the roster as reliever Nick Rogers was released.

John Lamb

Wilmington was the lone KC Royals affiliate to be victorious on Tuesday, as they beat Carolina 6-0. Justin Trapp led off the game with a solo homerun (he went 2-for-4).

Back-to-back one out doubles by Cheslor Cuthbert and Jared Schlehuber gave the Blue Rocks a 3-0 lead in the first. Schlehuber drove in another run in the 3rd inning with a ground out. Geulin Beltre‘s two-run single in the 8th inning finished off their scoring.

Coming off being named the Carolina League Pitcher of the Week, starter John Lamb had his second straight solid start. He pitched seven scoreless innings and allowed four hits and two walks while striking out five. He also picked off a base runner. Spencer Patton, one of the league’s top relievers, pitched two scoreless innings of relief.

Lexington was crushed by the worst team in the South Atlantic League, Kannapolis, by a 13-1 score.

The Legends collected just two hits, one of which was a solo homerun from Bubba Starling in the seventh.

Colin Rodgers was not pitching bad until the 4th inning when Kannapolis scored four runs. He went back out for the 5th inning and he and Chas Byrne allowed seven runs. On the positive side, Clayton Schluz did not allow a run over 2.1 innings. He allowed just one hit while striking out three.

*Outfielder Alex Llanos, who was just released by the Royals, signed with the Chicago White Sox and went 1-for-4 with two runs scored and two RBIs for Kannapolis.

Will Smith in Omaha. Photo by Minda Haas (mindahaas.net)

That was more than enough for starter Will Smith, who allowed two runs (one earned) on nine hits and a walk over six innings. He struck out six. Kelvin Herrera pitched the 9th inning and needed just nine pitches to finish off the Zephyrs.

Johnny Giavotella once again played third base and went 2-for-4 at the plate. He also committed another error. Christian Colon went 2-for-5

Despite a dominant start from Yordano Ventura, NW Arkansas lost once again, 2-1. San Antonio walked off in the bottom of the ninth on a two out RBI single.

Ventura allowed a solo homerun in the sixth to tie the game at 1-1. He allowed four hits over eight innings while striking out eight. He threw 71 of his 96 pitches for strikes.

The Naturals scored their lone run in the third on Rey Navarro‘s one out RBI double.

After sweeping the best team in the Carolina League over the weekend, Wilmington then lost to the worst team on Monday by a 13-8 score. The Blue Rocks actually led 4-0 after three innings and 8-7 heading into the bottom of the sixth.

They had two four-run innings.

Kyle Zimmer is still searching for his first win of the season, as he lasted just seven batters into the 4th inning (all seven scored). It didn’t help that his defense committed three errors behind him in that inning, but he did allow two 2-run doubles following the errors. He had only allowed one base runner prior to that fourth inning.

However, the Blue Rocks took him off the hook, taking the lead in the sixth. Carolina came right back to re-take the lead by scoring two runs in the bottom of the inning (and four more runs in the next).

*In roster news, Geulin Beltre returned from the DL to hit a homerun. Fellow outfielder Alex Llanos was released.

Lexington’s Raul Mondesi in a May 5, 2013 game in Lakewood.

Raul Mondesi hit for the cycle, as Lexington beat Kannapolis, 7-3. The Legends scored a run in every inning but their last two.

Mondesi tripled in the first (and scored their first run). He homered in the third (his third homerun in two games). He singled and stole a base in the fifth and doubled home two runs in the sixth. So, he went 4-for-4 with two runs scored and three RBIs.

That was enough for Christian Binford to pick up his fourth win of the season. He allowed four runs (two earned) on three hits over seven innings (the Legends committed four errors). He struck out six. Daniel Hernandez followed with two scoreless innings of relief to earn his third save of the season.

After Justin Marks allowed five runs over the first five innings, Atahualpa Severino and George Sherrill were solid over the game’s final three innings. They combined to strike out five.

The Storm Chasers went 0-for-7 with runners in scoring position and only collected four hits (all singles). Two of those singles came in the ninth.

NW Arkansas played two in San Antonio on Sunday and split their series, thus breaking their losing streak.

Danny Duffy made his return in Game 1. He allowed two hits and two walks over three scoreless innings. He struck out four and threw 37 of his 63 pitches for strikes. He did hit a batter, throw a wild pitch, and have a balk, though he did pick off a base runner.

The Naturals won the game, 4-1. The top three hitters in their lineup: Brett Eibner, Orlando Calixte, and Rey Navarro went a combined 4-for-10 with a double, a triple, four runs scored, and four RBIs.

The Naturals lost Game 2, 1-0. Sugar Ray Marimon took the complete game loss, as he allowed one run on six hits and two walks. He struck out six. Problem is, his offense only mustered four hits, two from Matt Fields.

It took four errors in the top of the 14th inning by Myrtle Beach for Wilmington to win 9-6. Three straight players reached on errors before two straight strikeouts. Lane Adams delivered a two-run single (with another error) and Daniel Mateo collected an RBI single. That was much needed, as Myrtle Beach scored a run in the bottom of the inning.

Blue Rocks starter Aaron Brooks allowed four runs in the bottom of the first, but settled down and lasted seven innings. Five of the eight hits he allowed came in that 1st inning. He struck out six.

The Blue Rocks battled back to take a 5-4 lead in the top of the 8th inning only to see Robinson Yambati balk in the tying run in the bottom of the inning. The two teams were then held scoreless until the 14th.

Adams went 3-for-7 with two RBIs and two stolen bases and Mateo went 2-for-6 with two RBIs. As a team, they collected 14 hits, but went 6-for-22 with runners in scoring position and left 18 men on base.

They are now off to Carolina for an afternoon game on Monday after sweeping the team with the best home record.

Lexington’s Raul Mondesi in a May 5, 2013 game in Lakewood.

Despite two homeruns from Raul Mondesi, Lexington lost to Hagerstown, 16-9. The Legends actually led 6-1, but the Suns scored six runs in the third and eight more in the 6th inning.

Fred Ford also hit a homerun, one of his two hits.

Ali Williams took the loss, as he allowed the tie-breaking run in the fifth inning (the only run he allowed over three innings of relief). That solid relief appearance was around a poor start by Miguel Almonte (2+IP, 7H, 7R, 3BB, 3K) and a poor relief outing from Cory Hall, who allowed all eight runs in the sixth. Why would you allow your pitcher to suffer through that at that level?

The Legends now return home to face the worst team in the South Atlantic League, Kannapolis, at home for three games beginning on Monday night.

The Zephrys only scored in two innings, but it was enough. Johnny Giavotella and Xavier Nady, the Storm Chasers 3-4 hitters, went a combined 4-for-8 with two runs scored. Gio hit a solo homerun in the 7th inning.

Nate Adcock took the loss, as he allowed all five runs on seven hits and three walks over 4.1 innings. Buddy Baumann pitched 2.2 scoreless innings of relief and struck out six.

The Storm Chasers lost the second game, 5-4. That was after Omaha led 3-0 heading into the bottom of the second. Willy Taveras drove in two runs in that inning with a double.

New Orleans scored the go ahead run in the bottom of the 6th inning off recently demoted reliever Kelvin Herrera. He was helped out by Anthony Seratelli, who threw another runner out at the plate to end the inning. Seratelli went 2-for-3 with a triple at the plate.

NW Arkansas was postponed in San Antonio due to the massive flooding in the city. The two teams will play a doubleheader on Sunday afternoon as Danny Duffy makes his first rehab start.

Wilmington won both games of their doubleheader in Myrtle Beach, home to the best team in the Carolina League. In Game 1, the Blue Rocks won 8-3.

Both teams scored three runs in the first inning, but it wasn’t until the later innings that the Blue Rocks broke through. They scored a single run in the fifth before scoring four runs in the top of the sixth. Jared Schlehuber returned to the lineup to deliver a two out, two-run single to cap the scoring.

Kyle Smith picked up the win, as he allowed three unearned runs on five hits. He did not walk a batter while striking out six in six innings.

In Game 2, the Blue Rocks scored three runs in the top of the 5th inning en route to their 3-1 win. Sam Selman allowed a solo homerun in the bottom of the 5th inning.

Selman allowed two hits and walked two over five innings. He struck out six. The Pelicans first hit was a double with two outs in the fourth. Andrew Triggs picked up the save, as he retired the final six batters he faced after putting the first two he faced on the bases.

In the Blue Rocks’ three run fifth, Cheslor Cuthbert drove in two runs on a two out single. In the doubleheader, he drove in four.

Lexington won their first game in Hagerstown by a 6-0 score.

The Legends pounded out 13 hits and walked eight times, but only one of their hits went for extra bases. They went just 5-for-20 with runners in scoring position and hit into three double plays.

One of the newest Legends, Mark Donato, went 4-for-4. Fred Ford, Jin-Ho Shin, and Humberto Arteaga each picked up two hits in the win.

Bryan Brickhouse was the beneficiary of the run support, as he picked up his third win of the season. He pitched seven shutout innings and only allowed three hits (and three walks). Clayton Schulz pitched two hitless innings of relief.

Christian Colon and Paulo Orlando each went 2-for-4 with a double. Colon drove in two runs with a 7th inning single.

Jason Adam via Jen Nevius

Despite a great start from Jason Adam, NW Arkansas lost their fifth game in a row with a 2-0 loss to Corpus Christi. The game was scoreless until the Hooks got to Adam for a run in the seventh after a leadoff hit batter.

Adam had retired nine in a row prior to that inning. He allowed one run on five hits and a walk over seven innings. He struck out five.

However, it is tough to win when your offense only picks up one hit, a leadoff single in the sixth by Roman Hernandez. The Naturals hit into three double plays, had a runner picked off, and another runner thrown out trying to steal second base.

Lexington collected just three hits as they lost in Hagerstown, 6-0. All three hits were singles. They also walked five times, but went just 1-for-7 with runners in scoring position and struck out ten times.

The Lasik surgery does not seem to be working yet for Bubba Starling. He went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts tonight, while also getting ejected in the 8th inning. He also grounded into a double play. Since returning from surgery (five games), he is 3-for-18 with seven strikeouts.

*Over the last two days, there have been quite a few roster moves. I mentioned yesterday about Kenny Diekroeger and Yowill Espinal switching teams. Nick Cuckovich was “sent” to rookie ball Idaho Falls and reliever Mark Peterson was placed on the DL. Matthew Murray and Mark Donato were activated. Murray pitched one scoreless inning of relief and Donato went 1-for-4 with two strikeouts while playing first base in tonight’s game.

In the top of the third with runners at first and second base and one out, the Padres got a base hit, but Paulo Orlando threw a runner out at the plate. Dwyer then got a strike out to end the inning. In the bottom of the inning, the Storm Chasers put three runs on the board to take the lead. Christian Colon drove in two runs with a single (one of his three hits).

In the top of the fourth with runners at second and third and no out, Willy Taveras threw a runner out at the plate after a fly ball out in left field.

Anthony Seratelli, Taveras, and Orlando each collected two hits in the win.

*For those of you wondering, Johnny Giavotella played third base, but committed an error and went 0-for-4 at the plate to drop his average to .264.

NW Arkansas has now lost four in a row, with another loss to Corpus Christi. They lost 10-4.

The Naturals collected nine hits, but hit into two double plays and went 3-for-7 with runners in scoring position. They also struck out ten times, two times each to the top three hitters. The 7-8 hitters (Rey Navarro and Roman Hernandez) each collected three hits.

On a positive note, reliever Sam Runion threw two scoreless innings.

John Lamb

Wilmington took two of three games from first place Lynchburg with a 5-1 win on Thursday morning. They are still in last place in the Northern Division of the Carolina League, but are just three games out. The Blue Rocks now have Friday off as they head to Myrtle Beach for two games and then on to Carolina for four games.

After being no-hit for 3.1 innings, the Blue Rocks recorded their first hit (a Daniel Mateo single) and then scored four runs in the 4th inning. That was more than enough for the Blue Rocks starter.

John Lamb went a season-high seven shutout innings to pick up his third win of the season. He allowed three hits and one walk while striking out eight. He never had more than one base runner on in an inning. Twice the base runner was eliminated on the bases (one he picked off, the other was thrown out trying to stretch a single into a double). The walk came in his final inning of work.

*In roster news, Kenny Diekroeger was sent to Lexington (he went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts) and infielder Yowill Espinal will join the Blue Rocks in Myrtle Beach.

Lexington lost their first game in Hagerstown, 7-0 in front of less than 800 fans.

The Legends collected just four hits, two by left fielder Terrence Gore. He stole his 25th base, though he was also caught for the fifth time. They committed three errors. However, they also had three outfield assists, one by Gore and two by Ethan Chapman (who was in right field).

Justin Marks allowed two runs in the first inning on three singles, a walk, and a sac fly. After that, he only allowed two more hits and a walk over six more innings.

The Storm Chasers only collected seven hits, two from Xavier Nady.

Wilmington held on to beat first place Lynchburg, 4-3.

Aaron Brooks proved that maybe he should be a prospect. He allowed five hits over eight scoreless innings (the longest outing by any Blue Rocks starter). He struck out five and the Hillcats never had more than one base runner on base in an inning. By my count, he finished with 86 pitches (59 for strikes) and only threw eight pitches in his final inning.

The Blue Rocks offense scored two runs each in the fourth and fifth innings. Daniel Mateo scored the game’s first run, after going face first into the grass when rounding third base. In his defense, he was held up at first but then the left fielder misplayed the ball and he had to restart. Mateo went 3-for-4 with two runs scored.

Manager Vance Wilson talked after the game about Brooks’ start, why Brooks’ is now the Blue Rocks top starter, about reliever Robinson Yambati’s struggles, about the health of Jared Schlehuber, and his team’s defense:

Down 3-1 heading into the bottom of the eighth, Lexington scored three runs and held on for the 4-3 victory. The first run scored on a wild pitch on a Bubba Starling strikeout. Michael Antonio gave them the lead with a two out, two-run single.

Christian Binford was solid in the start, as he pitched six innings. He allowed three unearned run on five hits and a walk while striking out eight. Ali Williams picked up the win with two scoreless innings of relief.

Raul Mondesi and Yowill Espinal each picked up two hits, with Espinal hitting a solo homerun, his first of the season.

They hit four homeruns in the win. Adam Moore gave Omaha their first lead of the game with a three-run 2nd inning bomb. Chad Tracy hit a three-run shot with two outs in the sixth. Christian Colon hit a two-run shot in the seventh (one of his two hits). Willy Taveras hit a solo shot to end their scoring in the 8th inning (one of his two hits).

Max Ramirez went 3-for-4 with a double and two runs scored.

Everett Teaford earned the win in relief. He entered the game in the sixth inning with a runner on base. He stranded that runner, but allowed a run in the seventh. Louis Coleman earned the save with two perfect innings of relief. He struck out three.

NW Arkansas lost to Tulsa again, this time by an 8-5 score.

Sugar Ray Marimon lost his sixth game of the season after he allowed three homeruns of the eight hits he allowed. He pitched 5.2 innings and struck out four. The Naturals bullpen pitched well (for the most part). Jon Keck pitched 1.1 perfect innings. After Matt Ridings allowed one run and loaded the bases, JC Sulbaran escaped the jam and pitched 1.1 perfect innings of relief.

The Naturals collected nine hits, but went 5-for-15 with runners in scoring position. Mitch Canham and Rey Navarro went 2-for-4 with a double each. Navarro drove in two runs. Matt Fields went 3-for-4 with three RBIs.

Lexington scored late en route to their 3-1 win over visiting Asheville.

The Legends scored two runs in the 6th inning to take the lead on one out singles by Fred Ford and Humberto Arteaga. Bubba Starling returned to the lineup to drive in their final run with a single in the seventh (he went 2-for-4). Terrence Gore also went 2-for-4 and stole his 24th base of the season.

Legends starter Miguel Almonte allowed one run on two hits and four walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out eight. Chas Byrne earned the win with two hitless innings of relief. Clayton Schulz picked up his third save of the season with 1.1 hitless innings of relief.

Anthony Seratelli

The Storm Chasers scored two runs in the bottom of the sixth to take the lead for good. With two outs, Xavier Nady doubled in one run and Anthony Seratelli followed with an RBI single (one of his two hits).

Max Ramirez went 2-for-4 and hit his 8th homerun of the season. Brett Hayes also went 2-for-4.

Brian Sanches got the win, as he pitched 2.1 scoreless innings of relief of Ryan Verdugo (5IP, 7H, 3R, BB, 5K). Sanches gave up back-to-back one out singles in the 8th inning and was replaced by Michael Mariot. He struck out three of the five batters he faced in picking up his fifth save of the season.

NW Arkansas lost to visiting Tulsa, 7-1. The Naturals scored first, in the 1st inning, on Brett Eibner‘s solo homerun.

Jason Adam had another okay start for the Naturals. He allowed four runs (three earned) on six hits and three walks over five innings (he threw 100 pitches). He struck out five, but allowed another homerun (his third this season). That homerun was a two out, two-run shot in the top of the second that gave the Drillers the lead.

The Naturals collected seven hits, two by Matt Fields (including a double).

*Former Natural Cole White pitched a scoreless inning of relief against his former teammates.

Wilmington won their series over visiting Myrtle Beach with a 2-1 win on Sunday. The Blue Rocks have off on Monday before welcoming first place Lynchburg to town for three games.

Sam Selman made it through five innings for just the third time this season (in eight starts) to pick up the win. He allowed just the one run on three hits and a walk while striking out six over five innings. Spencer Patton followed with two shutout innings before Scott Alexander got into trouble while trying to close out the game. With runners at second and third base and two outs in the ninth, Andrew Triggs induced a ground out to finish off the Pelicans.

For the Blue Rocks, Lane Adams went 2-for-4 with a double. The team only picked up four hits, including Justin Trapp‘s solo homerun in the 3rd inning that gave them the lead.

Lexington scored six runs in the top of the first and cruised to a 12-5 win over West Virginia. They now head home to play Asheville for three games.

In their six-run first, the Legends picked up four hits, walked twice, and was hit once. Nick Cuckovich cleared the bases with two outs off the Power’s new pitcher.

The Legends only collected nine hits, with Ethan Chapman being the lone player with two hits.

Bryan Brickhouse was the beneficiary of all the run support. He allowed four runs (two earned) on six hits and three walks over five innings. Cory Hall followed with two scoreless innings of relief before Alec Mills allowed an unearned run over the final two innings.

Chris Dwyer took the loss, as he allowed seven runs (four earned) on seven hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out six. After George Sherrill allowed two runs in the seventh, Buddy Baumann pitched two hitless innings of relief. He was just promoted from Double-A.

NW Arkansas broke their six-game losing skid with an 11-4 win over Tulsa. The Naturals collected 11 hits, but went just 2-for-11 with runners in scoring position.

Orlando Calixte got the Naturals on the board in the first with a two-run homerun, his first of the season. Matt Fields hit his tenth homerun of the season, a solo shot in the fourth. Brett Eibner hit his first homerun since returning from the DL, a two out, two-run shot in the Naturals five run 7th inning. Eibner also threw a runner out at the plate in the 6th inning with the bases loaded.

Brooks Pounders earned the win, as he pitched to two batters in the sixth. He did not allow a run on three hits and two walks while striking out four. He threw 70 pitches, 43 for strikes.

The Drillers got their four runs in the 8th inning against reliever Andy Ferguson.

*Outfielder Carlo Testa was activated off the DL and his return to the lineup will be his first action of the season.

In a back-and-forth affair across the middle innings, Wilmington beat visiting Myrtle Beach, 5-4. The Blue Rocks took the lead for good in the bottom of the 6th inning on Kenny Swab‘s two out, two-run homerun (he also drove in two runs in the second with a two out triple).

After starter Kyle Smith only lasted 4.2 innings, Cody Fassold picked up the win. He allowed one run on two hits and three walks over 3.1 innings. He struck out four.

Outfielder Alex Llanos picked up his first hit with the Blue Rocks in just his second game with the team. He also threw a runner out at third base.

Manager Vance Wilson was ejected in the 4th inning after arguing about a homerun call (Kellin Deglan of MB hit a two-run homerun to right field).

Lexington split their doubleheader in West Virginia. The Legends lost Game 1 by a 3-2 score. They scored two runs in the top of the first inning on Fred Ford‘s homerun. It was their only hit of the game.

Daniel Stumpf was the hard luck loser, as he pitched the complete game. He allowed three runs (two earned) on five hits and one walk. He struck out six.

In Game 2, the Legends won 6-4. Their runs came between the third and fifth innings and five different players drove in runs.

Adalberto Mondesi, Humberto Arteaga, and Alex Marquez each picked up two hits.

Aroni Nina picked up his first win of the season, as he allowed two runs on four hits and a walk over five innings. He struck out two.

Manager Brian Buchanan was ejected in the 5th inning.

Omaha lost to visiting Las Vegas, 7-3. The two teams combined to hit five homeruns. Will Smith took the loss, as he allowed four runs on six hits, two walks, and two hit batters over six innings.

Adam Moore and Willy Taveras each collected two hits and hit a solo homerun. Taveras also tripled (yet did not score). He even had an outfield assist.

*In roster news, Blaine Boyer was let go so he could play in Japan. Atahualpa Severino was activated from the DL. He allowed an unearned run in his one inning of work.

NW Arkansas lost their sixth straight game, as they finished up their road trip with a 5-2 loss in Tulsa. They picked up six hits, but went 0-for-7 with runners in scoring position and hit into three double plays.

Noel Arguelles lost his seventh game of the season, as he allowed four runs (three earned) over five innings. Three of those runs came via the long ball.

The Naturals scored their runs in the 7th inning and only picked up one hit. The first run came via an error and the second via a sac fly.

John Lamb

Wilmington was pounded late, as they lost at home to Myrtle Beach, 12-0. Even with all the runs scoring, the game was still only a little over two and a half hours.

John Lamb had another sub-par start, as he allowed six runs on seven hits over six-plus innings. On the positive side, he struck out eight and did not walk a batter. He also settled down after the Pelicans’ four-run first and the final two runs scored after he was pulled from the game. Four of the six hits he allowed came in the first, including a three-run homerun.

The Blue Rocks offense collected six hits, two from Alex Hudak (who batted ninth). They went 0-for-3 with runners in scoring position.

Lexington lost on the road to West Virginia, 3-1. The game started in a delay (1 hour and 33 minutes). Both teams scored single runs in the first inning, before the Power scored single runs in the sixth and seventh innings.

The Legends collected just two hits, a Nick Cuckovich single in the second and a Fred Ford single in the sixth.

Colin Rodgers only lasted 4.2 innings in the start. He allowed one run on five hits and two walks. Ali Williams took the loss, as he allowed the go ahead run in the sixth (1.1IP, 3H, R, BB, 0K). Daniel Hernandez pitched the final two innings and allowed a run (it was only the second time this season he had allowed runs).

Donnie Joseph (Photo: Minda Haas)

They collected 11 hits, but the Storm Chasers went just 3-for-12 with runners in scoring position. Irving Falu, Christian Colon, and Anthony Seratelli each had two hits.

Despite a sub-par start, Justin Marks won his first Triple-A game of the season. He allowed three runs on eight hits and five walks over five innings. He did strike out seven. Louis Coleman was solid once again, as he pitched two scoreless innings of relief.

NW Arkansas was swept by Arkansas, as they lost the finale by a 2-0 score. The Travelers scored two runs in the bottom of the first inning off Naturals starter Yordano Ventura. They put together three straight two out doubles. He settled down from there to retire 16 of the last 17 batters he faced.

However, the Naturals offense was held in check. They collected just three hits and did not have a runner reach second base.

The Naturals now head to Tulsa for one game before returning home to play Tulsa for three games.

*In roster news, Brett Eibner was activated from the DL, as fellow outfielder Alex Llanos was sent to Wilmington. Eibner went 1-for-4 with a strikeout in his return.

Another sub-par start from Kyle Zimmer led to another Wilmington loss, as they lost 7-4 in Potomac. Zimmer lasted just four innings and allowed five runs on six hits and three walks. He struck out five.

The Blue Rocks offense was held in check, as they went just 1-for-10 with runners in scoring position. Cheslor Cuthbert and Alex Hudak each collected two hits in the loss.

They now return home to begin a six-game homestand, beginning on Friday night against Myrtle Beach.

Lexington was rained out in West Virginia. The two teams will play a doubleheader on Saturday.

It was just a 2-1 score when Sugar Ray Marimon left the game after six innings. He allowed five hits (two solo homeruns) and three walks while striking out seven.

Wilmington blew a 6-2 lead and fell in Potomac, 9-6.

Parker Morin hit his first homerun of the season, a two-run shot in the 4th inning. Jared Schlehuber hit a three-run shot in the 6th inning (he went 3-for-4). Lane Adams and Kenny Diekroeger each picked up two hits.

Spencer Patton made the spot start and allowed two runs (one earned) on four hits and one walk over three innings. Scott Alexander followed by allowing two runs on four hits over three innings, but the Blue Rocks were still winning. Malcom Culver and Robinson Yambati allowed five runs on four hits and two walks over the game’s final two innings.

*Washington Nationals outfielder Jayson Werth started in right field and batted second for the P-Nats. He threw a runner out at the plate on a fly ball out to end an inning and got himself into a rundown to move a runner up and allow a runner to score. He went 1-for-2 at the plate.

Lexington swept Kannapolis with a 9-2 win in Wednesday afternoon’s finale. The Legends now travel to West Virginia for four games starting on Thursday.

Both teams put up two-spots in the fourth, but the Legends scored three runs each in the sixth and ninth innings.

The bottom two in Lexington’s order, Alex Marquez and Nick Cuckovich, went a combined 5-for-7 with two runs scored and two RBIs. Both of Cuckovich’s hits were doubles. Fred Ford went 3-for-4 with two runs scored and three RBIs. He hit a two out, two-run homerun in the 4th inning that tied the game at 2-2.

Christian Binford picked up the win, as he allowed two runs on five hits and a walk over six innings. He struck out four. Chas Byrne struck out four over his two inning relief outing.

The Storm Chasers hit three homeruns, but all three were solo shots. They collected ten hits, but only four were for extra bases (including a double). They went just 2-for-5 with runners in scoring position.

Johnny Giavotella and Max Ramirez, the 3-4 hitters, went a combined 4-for-9 with two homeruns, three runs scored, and four RBIs. Ramirez is coming off earning Pacific Coast League Player of the Week honors.

NW Arkansas lost to Arkansas, 4-1. The loss came after the Naturals took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first on Manny Pina‘s two out RBI single. It is hard to win a game when you only collect two hits and commit three errors.

Their second hit was a one out single by Rey Navarro in the fifth, but he was thrown out trying to steal second base on a strikeout to end the inning. The Naturals did not have another base runner.

Despite struggling with command early in the game, Naturals starter Jason Adam rebounded to last six innings. At one point early on, he had thrown 63 pitches, 33 for strikes (he ended up with 103 pitches, 58 for strikes). He retired ten in a row to end his outing.

Wilmington won the first game of their series in Potomac by a 7-3 final.

Aaron Brooks earned his first win of the season, as he allowed three runs on six hits and two walks over 6.2 innings. The P-Nats scored all of their runs in the bottom of the 5th inning, as they sent seven men to the plate (four hits and a sac fly). Wilmington came right back with a three-spot of their own in the top of the sixth to retake the lead.

The Blue Rocks 5-6 hitters (Jared Schlehuber and Jack Lopez) went a combined 5-for-9 with five runs scored. Schlehuber hit his first homerun of the season, a solo shot that gave them their first lead in the 4th inning.

*In roster news, the Blue Rocks lost outfield prospect Jorge Bonifacio for about 6-8 weeks with a broken left hamate bone. Bonifacio played on both Saturday and Sunday in Frederick and went 6-for-8. Tyler Chism took his place on the roster, as he was added from extended spring training. In his first game in High-A, Chism went 1-for-5 batting ninth and in left field.

Lexington beat Kannapolis, 6-1 behind another solid start from Miguel Almonte. Almonte allowed a solo homerun in the 6th inning, the only run he allowed over seven innings. He allowed just three hits and three walks while striking out two. Clayton Schulz pitched two perfect innings of relief with two strikeouts.

Adrian Morales went 2-for-4 with an RBI single in the fourth and an RBI double in the 6th inning. Ethan Chapman, who moved up to the second spot in the order while playing centerfield, went 2-for-4 with a stolen base (his 17th of the season).

*No Bubba Starling for the second game in a row.

Lett’s start with Omaha, who lost in walk off fashion to Colorado Springs, 7-6. The Storm Chasers led 6-3 heading into the bottom of the ninth when the Sky Sox plated four runs. With the bases loaded and one out, Adam Moore dropped the throw at the plate, allowing the winning run to score.

Every Storm Chaser batter had at least one hit, as they collected 15 of them. The middle of their order (Johnny Giavotella, Xavier Nady, and Max Ramirez) went 7-for-14. Ramirez was just named the Pacific Coast League’s Player of the Week.

Francisley Bueno made a solid spot start with four innings of one-run baseball.

With the score tied at 3-3 in the bottom of the ninth, Arkansas walked off on NW Arkansas, 4-3 on a two out solo homerun.

Rey Navarro had given the Naturals a short-lived 3-2 lead in the top of the 8th inning on a solo homerun (he went 2-for-4 with two runs scored). The Travelers came right back to tie the game in the bottom of the inning.

Brooks Pounders was solid in the no decision. He allowed two runs on six hits over five innings. He struck out four.

*Yordano Ventura was named the Texas League’s Player of the Week.

Wilmington lost their series finale in Frederick by a 7-3 final. The Blue Rocks scored all of their runs over the final two innings. Now they head to Potomac for three games.

Sam Selman lost his third game of the season, as once again his command failed him. He allowed five runs (four earned) on five walks and four hits. He did strike out five, but over just 4.2 innings.

Alex Hudak drove in two runs in the 8th inning with a homerun.

June 21, 2011; Omaha, NE, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks third baseman Adrian Morales (3) hits a RBI single during the first inning against the Virginia Cavaliers during the 2011 College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Lexington was the only affiliate to win on Monday night and they won in walk off fashion. With one out in the bottom of the 11th inning, Adrian Morales hit his first homerun of the season to give the Legends the 2-1 win. It was just his second hit of the season.

Just hours after being named the South Atlantic League’s Pitcher of the Week, Bryan Brickhouse delivered yet another solid start. He allowed one run on seven hits and two walks over five innings. He struck out four and recorded the rest of his outs on the ground. The Legends bullpen was stellar behind him. Cory Hall, Mark Peterson, and winning pitcher Ali Williams combined to throw six scoreless innings. Only three hitters reached base against them.

Michael Antonio drove in the Legends first run in the bottom of the fourth with a double (one of his two hits on the night).

The bottom of their order, Adam Moore, Willy Taveras, and Paulo Orlando went a combined 8-for-12 with seven runs scored and four RBIs. Taveras and Orlando each stole a base. Moore followed Chad Tracy‘s two-run home run in the ninth with his own solo shot.

Ryan Verdugo was the recipient of all the run support. He allowed four runs (three earned) on six hits and three walks over 7.1 innings.

*In roster news, reliever Dan Wheeler was released on Saturday to make room for fellow reliever Brian Sanches who was on the inactive list. It is a shame because Wheeler pitched well during spring training and may have made the team if he was on the 40-man roster.

NW Arkansas lost their finale in Springfield on Sunday by a 7-4 score. That was despite out-hitting the Cardinals, 11-8. The Naturals now head to play Arkansas for four games beginning Monday.

Angel Franco, Roman Hernandez, and Alex McClure each picked up two hits. Hernandez hit a two-run home run in the 4th inning with two outs.

Noel Arguelles lasted just two batters into the 3rd inning, as he walked eight. Meanwhile, the Naturals bullpen allowed just one run on four hits and three walks the rest of the game.

*In roster news, utility man Whit Merrifield was placed on the DL and reliever Buddy Baumann was added to the roster, He made his debut and pitched three scoreless innings of relief while striking out four.

Wilmington jumped out to a 5-0 lead after the second inning and never looked back, en route to their 8-2 win in Frederick. The Blue Rocks collected 15 hits. The two teams finish up their series on Monday.

Six of the Blue Rocks hitters had multi-hit games. The top three in the order, Justin Trapp, Daniel Mateo, and Jorge Bonifacio went 6-for-14 with four runs scored and three RBIs. Cheslor Cuthbert hit three doubles and drove in two runs.

All of that offensive output made a winner of Kyle Smith. He allowed one run on five hits and a walk over six innings. He struck out four.

*In roster news, outfielder Chris Elder was activated from the DL.

Lexington lost their series finale to West Virginia, 6-2. Two of the Legends six hits came in the bottom of the ninth. They now welcome Kannapolis to town Monday night.

Terrence Gore and Ethan Chapman each collected two hits. Unfortunately as a team, the Legends struck out 14 times (though Bubba Starling did not).

Clayton Schulz and Daniel Hernandez each threw a scoreless inning of relief.

After starter Chris Dwyer allowed four runs over 5.1 innings (but left with the win), the Omaha bullpen duo of Blaine Boyer and Donnie Joseph allowed six runs over the game’s final two innings.

The Storm Chasers out-hit the Sky Sox 14-9 (five of those hits were doubles), as five starters collected multi-hit games. Max Ramirez and Anthony Seratelli each picked up three hits.

NW Arkansas played Springfield into the morning, as the Naturals won 5-4.

Both teams used two position players to pitch each. Mitch Canham, who was 2-for-7 at the plate, pitched three scoreless innings (the 15th-17th). Canham then moved to first base, as Matt Fields came on to pitch. He loaded the bases with nobody out in the 18th, but escaped the jam. He then walked to lead off the 20th inning and came around to score on Juan Graterol‘s first homerun of the season. Fields earned the win and also went 2-for-5 at the plate (including a two-run homerun).

It got a little dicey in the bottom of the 20th, as Fields allowed three straight singles to score a run with one out. After a fly out moved the tying run to third base, he induced a ground out to FINALLY end the game. The two teams will be back on the field for the finale this afternoon.

There wasn’t a ton of offense to talk about, as most of the hitters saw their averages drop. The two teams combined for 41 strikeouts and 32 men left on base.

Former Royal Ruben Gotay took the loss, despite being the reason the game went into extra innings. He hit a three-run homerun in the 8th inning (the only runs the Cardinals scored until the 20th). Outside of those two innings, the Naturals pitching staff combined for 18 scoreless innings.

Wilmington‘s five-run 6th inning gave them a 6-4 win over host Frederick in Game 1 of their doubleheader. In that inning, the Blue Rocks had four hits, a walk, and a sac fly, while being helped out by a Frederick error.

Kyle Zimmer started, but did not earn the win because he was pulled after four innings (he threw 78 pitches). He allowed five hits and two walks while striking out three. Cody Fassold picked up the win with two perfect innings of relief.

On offense in the win, Justin Trapp and Parker Morin picked up two hits.

The Blue Rocks exploded in the late innings to beat the Keys, 18-5 in the second game. They were down 5-0 heading into the fourth and capped the game with an eight-spot in the seventh. In that eight run outburst, Wilmington sent 12 men to the plate.

Every hitter had a multi-hit game except for two. Kenny Diekroeger and Alex Hudak each picked up two hits, including two out home runs. Jack Lopez fell a double short of the cycle and drove in seven runs. Jorge Bonifacio went 4-for-4 with three runs scored and two RBIs.

Malcom Culver earned his first win with three scoreless innings of relief of John Lamb, who only lasted four innings (5H, 5R, 2BB, K, 2HR).

The two games totaled 5 hours and 28 minutes and the start was delayed 33 minutes due to wet field conditions from an afternoon thunderstorm. Frederick had to cancel their fireworks show because the game did not end until 12:01am ET (one hour after their curfew).

*In roster news, first baseman Murray Watts was released and the Blue Rocks received Jared Schlehuber from extended spring training. Schlehuber went 2-for-5 with four RBIs in the second game.

Lexington won Game 1 over West Virginia, 2-0. Colin Rodgers picked up the win with six shutout innings. He allowed six hits and a walk while striking out six. Mark Peterson earned his fifth save of the season.

Raul Mondesi and Jin-Ho Shin each picked up two hits in the win and both drove in a run (in the fifth and sixth innings).

The Legends lost the second game, 4-3. Josh Bell hit a two-run home run to give the Power the lead in the top of the seventh.

On offense in the loss, Terrence Gore went 3-for-4 with two runs scored from the leadoff spot (they only had six hits).

Starter Daniel Stumpf pitched well, but only lasted four innings (4H, R, BB, 6K). Alec Mills took the loss, as he allowed the two run home run, along with an inherited runner in the sixth.

The Storm Chasers scored four runs in the 6th inning, capped by Anthony Seratelli’s two out, two-run homerun (he went 2-for-4). Max Ramirez would add another two-run shot in the eighth (he went 2-for-4).

That made a winner of Will Smith, who allowed just one run on six hits and a walk over six innings. Louis Coleman followed with two perfect innings of relief

Xavier Nady collected three hits in the win and Adam Moore and Christian Colon each picked up two hits.

NW Arkansas and Springfield played two. The Cardinals won the first game, 6-4. Sugar Ray Marimon took the loss, as he allowed all six runs on nine hits over just four innings. The Cardinals also hit two homeruns off him.

Speaking of homers, Matt Fields hit his seventh, a two-run shot with two outs in the 4th inning.

The Naturals won the second game by a 5-4 final. They scored all five runs in the third, capped by a Fields’ two out, three-run homerun.

Matt Ridings picked up the win in relief of starter Andy Ferguson, who lasted just one inning. Ridings allowed four hits over three scoreless innings and struck out three.

Wilmington was rained out in their series opener in Frederick. The two teams will play a doubleheader on Saturday.

Lexington and West Virginia were also rained out and will also play a doubleheader on Saturday.

The Storm Chasers took the second game, 13-1. Already leading 3-0, they exploded for nine runs in the 2nd inning.

Mar 18, 2013; Surprise, AZ, USA; Kansas City Royals second baseman Johnny Giavotella (9) swings at a pitch during the fifth inning against the Texas Rangers at Surprise Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

In the first, two straight singles to lead off the game led to Johnny Giavotella‘s three-run homerun. In the second, the Storm Chasers sent 15 men to the plate. They walked four times and hit six singles. The big hit came from Paulo Orlando, who cleared the bases with a triple.

Omaha was held scoreless from there until Max Ramirez hit a solo homerun in the 6th inning (he went 3-for-4). David Lough, Christian Colon, and Brett Hayes each picked up two hits in the win.

Everett Teaford made the start and allowed four hits and a walk over 3.2 innings. He struck out three. Francisley Bueno picked up the win, as he allowed an unearned run on two hits over 3.1 innings of relief.

In roster news, third baseman Brandon Wood was traded to the Baltimore Orioles (and sent to Triple-A Norfolk). Orlando was activated from the DL.

Mother Nature must not want NW Arkansas and Springfield to play. Last week when Springfield visited NW Arkansas, two games were postponed. Tonight’s series opener in Springfield was rained out after they recorded ten outs. They will play a doubleheader on Friday.

In roster news, reliever Cole White was released and Santiago Garrido was activated from the DL.

After scoring two runs in the first inning, Wilmington lost to Potomac in ten innings, 3-2. Jorge Bonifacio drove in a run with a sac fly and Lane Adams drove in a run with a single.

Spencer Patton took the loss, as two straight wild pitches allowed the winning run to score (3IP, H, R, 0BB, 4K). Aaron Brooks had another solid start, as he allowed two runs on three hits over seven innings. He struck out seven.

Murray Watts went 2-for-4 with two doubles, but never scored a run.

With a 1-1 tie, Lexington scored a run in the bottom of the 7th inning to beat visiting West Virginia, 2-1. Michael Antonio broke the tie with a leadoff homerun, his first of the season (he went 2-for-2).

Christian Binford earned the win, as he allowed just the one run on six hits and a walk over seven innings. He struck out six. Daniel Hernandez and Alec Mills threw a perfect inning of relief each.

Omaha lost to host Reno, 7-5 as their bullpen faltered once again. After the Storm Chasers tied the game at 5-5 in the top of the 8th inning on a Willy Taveras two out, two-run single, Reno came right back to take the lead. The go ahead run came via a Donnie Joseph bases loaded walk.

Storm Chasers starter Nate Adcock was ejected (along with manager Mike Jirschele) in the 5th inning after hitting Adam Eaton with a pitch. George Sherrill followed by allowing both runners on base to score (on a double). He then gave up a run of his own. Former Royal Kila Ka’aihue hit a solo homerun in the 7th inning.

Omaha collected ten hits, but went just 3-for-10 with runners in scoring position. Max Ramirez went 2-for-4 and had the only extra base hit (a double). Xavier Nady, Anthony Seratelli, and Irving Falu each had two hits. Falu drove in two runs.

Wilmington lost to visiting Potomac, 3-2 in five innings. The rains came in the top of the 6th inning. The tarp was put on after a leadoff walk for the P-Nats.

The two teams only combined for three hits and the P-Nats only had one. Blue Rocks starter Sam Selman allowed an RBI single in the very first inning. He only lasted 4.2 innings because he walked five, hit two batters, threw two wild pitches, and allowed a stolen base.

Justin Trapp had tied the game in the 3rd inning with a solo homerun. In the 5th inning, the P-Nats scored two runs to take the lead, one on a sac fly and the other on a wild pitch. they were also helped out by a passed ball.

NW Arkansas was shut out 6-0 by visiting Arkansas.

Noel Arguelles did not pitch that bad, as he allowed three runs on six hits and three walks over six innings. However JC Sulbaran continues to struggle, as he allowed three runs in the 7th inning on three hits (including a homer) and a walk. His ERA ballooned to 12.00.

The Naturals only collected three hits, two singles and a double by Manny Pina.

Blue Rocks starter Kyle Smith during his May 1, 2013 start.

Wilmington opened their series with Potomac with a 4-1 win. The P-Nats did not pick up their first hit off Kyle Smith until a leadoff single in the fifth. That hitter was thrown out at second base trying to stretch it into a double.

In his final inning, Smith got into a bases loaded jam (one hit and two walks) in the sixth, but escaped. His line looked like this: 6IP, 2H, 0R, 3BB, 3K. Scott Alexander allowed an unearned run in the seventh that cut the Blue Rocks lead to 2-1, but they came right back with two runs in the bottom of the inning.

The Blue Rocks’ seven hits came from the 2-6 hitters, with Jorge Bonifacio going 3-for-4. Daniel Mateo scored there runs in the win.

Lexington lost to Lakewood 1-0 in the series finale. The Blue Claws scored the game’s lone run in the seventh.

Miguel Almonte was the hard luck loser, as he allowed one run on five hits and two walks over 6.2 innings. He struck out seven.

The Legends only picked up three hits in the loss, all singles. Bubba Starling saw his strikeout-less streak come to an end at two games. He struck out Tuesday night in the 4th inning. The game saw five caught stealings on the bases and three of them were Legends’ runners.

Max Ramirez had tied the game in the bottom of the 8th inning at 4-4 with a two-run homerun (one of his two hits).

Michael Mariot was solid, getting the game into extra innings. He pitched 2.1 scoreless innings of relief.

The Storm Chasers now head out on the road for eight games.

NW Arkansas beat visiting Arkansas, 6-1. Every Naturals hitter collected at least one hit.

Yordano Ventura was dominant, as he pitched six scoreless innings. He allowed two hits and two walks while striking out ten. The first (one) and the fifth (none) were the only innings Ventura did not strike out at least two batters. He struck out the side in the 4th inning, with the final two coming with the bases loaded.

Leadoff hitter Angel Franco went 4-for-5 with two runs scored and a stolen base. Roman Hernandez went 2-for-4 with two doubles and two RBIs.

Wilmington had off today and welcomes Carolina League Northern Division foe Potomac to town for the first time for three games beginning on Tuesday night. A series sweep would push the Blue Rocks out of last place in the Northern Division.

Brickhouse is one of many talented arms on the Lexington roster. (Photo Clinton Riddle)

Lexington beat Lakewood, 2-0. Bryan Brickhouse was the star, as he picked up his first win of the season. He didn’t allow a hit until Josh Ludy led off the 6th inning with a double.

Brickhouse struck out nine of the first 14 hitters he faced. The Blue Claws first base runner came with two outs in the fifth via a walk. Over 6.2 innings, he allowed two hits and two walks while striking out nine. Alec Mills entered in the 7th inning and escaped a two on and two out jam. He picked up his fourth save of the season with 2.1 scoreless innings of relief.

The Legends scored a run in the 4th inning on a ground out and their final run in the 9th inning on a Nick Cuckovich RBI single (after a Fred Ford triple).

Louis Coleman got the win, despite allowing the tying run (an inherited run) to score in the 8th inning. Chris Dwyer got the start and allowed two hits over 6.1 innings. He walked four and struck out six. Dwyer did not allow a hit until there were two outs in the fifth.

The Storm Chasers and RedBirds were postponed on Saturday.

NW Arkansas scored ten runs between the second and fourth innings en route to their 12-4 win over Arkansas.

Every Natural had at least one hit (except Manny Pina). Angel Franco led off and went 2-for-5 with five RBIs. He hit a three-run homerun in the 4th inning. Rey Navarro went 2-for-4 with a two-run homerun in the fourth. Orlando Calixte and Alex McClure each had two hits and Mitch Canham stayed red-hot, going 3-for-5.

Sugar Ray Marimon earned the win, as he allowed four runs (three earned) on seven hits over six innings. He struck out six. Brooks Pounders was solid over his two relief innings (two hits and a walk).

Last night, Wilmington lost a heartbreaker in Lynchburg after starter Kyle Zimmer pitched into the sixth inning before allowing a hit. They lost after a sloppy ninth inning. On Sunday, the Blue Rocks lost 9-4, as John Lamb struggled.

Lamb allowed seven runs (six earned) over five plus innings (three batters into the sixth). He allowed nine hits (including a first inning lead off homerun) and three walks.

The Blue Rocks scored all of their runs in the 2nd inning, capped by a Kenny Swab three-run homerun (his first of the season). Six of their nine hits came in that inning (though all but the homer were singles).

The Blue Rocks lost the series to the Hillcats and committed seven errors over the last two games. They now have Monday off before welcoming Northern Division foe Potomac to town for three games.

*In roster news, Geulin Beltre was placed on the DL with a strained left hamstring. Alex Hudak replaced him on the Blue Rocks roster (from extended spring training). He started in left field and went 1-for-4.

Lexington beat the worst team in the South Atlantic League again on Sunday, this time by a 7-5 score.

The Legends scored four runs in the top of the 8th inning to take the lead. They only picked up one hit, as Lakewood committed three errors (I gave the one hit an error because the Blue Claw third baseman is bad) and hit three batters.

Cory Hall earned the win out of the bullpen, as he pitched 2.1 scoreless innings of relief. Mark Peterson earned his fourth save of the season with 1.2 perfect innings.

On offense for the Legends, every batter had a hit (except Humberto Arteaga). Michael Antonio, Nick Cuckovich, and Fred Ford each had two hits. As a team, they stole five bases.

Will Smith in Omaha. Photo by Minda Haas (mindahaas.net)

Will Smith made his first start since his spot start in the big leagues on Sunday with a good one. He allowed an unearned run on just two hits over six innings. He did walk four. Dan Wheeler was solid over 1.2 innings, as he struck out three.

George Sherrill entered with one out in the 8th inning and allowed a single to the first batter he faced. After a strikeout and a stolen base, Sherrill intentionally walked his final hitter. That brought in Blaine Boyer, who walked the next two hitters to force in the go ahead run.

After getting out of the 8th inning, Boyer went back out for the ninth. He walked the first batter he faced. The next batter laid down a sac bunt, which catcher Brett Hayes threw away, allowing an insurance run to score.

In the bottom of the 9th inning, the Storm Chasers went down quietly with three strikeouts.

NW Arkansas and Springfield were rained out for the second consecutive day. The game will be made up as part of a doubleheader on June 15th (to go along with one on the first day of the series, June 13th). The Naturals now play Arkansas at home over the weekend.

Wilmington went from no hits heading into the top of the 8th inning in Lynchburg to winning the game once the inning was over. They held on for the 1-0 victory. After losing seven in a row, the Blue Rocks have now won four in a row. It was the first time this season that the Blue Rocks faced their fellow Northern Division foe.

Geulin Beltre led off the 8th inning with a single and moved to second on a sac bunt. Kenny Diekroeger, who was the lone Blue Rocks base runner prior to the inning (he had walked in the third), singled in pinch-runner Lane Adams to break the scoreless tie.

Spencer Patton, who was already on in relief of starter Aaron Brooks (6IP, 2H, 0R, BB, 5K), picked up the win. He struck out five total Hillcats.

James Hoyt for the Hillcats allowed just one walk over six hitless innings. He struck out eight.

Lexington scored six runs in the top of the 6th inning and held on for the 6-3 win over Delmarva. The Legends swept the series with the Shorebirds and now head to Lakewood for four games.

The Legends picked up just one hit in the sixth, a Bubba Starling two-run single with two outs (he had two hits). There were five walks, a hit batter, a passed ball, two wild pitches, and a Delmarva error.

Colin Rodgers allowed two hits over 5.2 innings. On the downside, he walked four. Clayton Schulz picked up his second save of the season with 1.2 hitless innings of relief.

Adalberto Mondesi had a rough game, as he struck out four times and committed three errors at shortstop.

September 05, 2012; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Everett Teaford (61) delivers a pitch during the first inning of the game against the Texas Rangers at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Everett Teaford got the spot start and pitched four perfect innings. He struck out four and threw 37 of his 55 pitches for strikes. Louis Coleman followed, but allowed a double to start the 6th inning. That was the only hit he allowed over three scoreless innings to earn his first win of the season. He also struck out four.

David Lough drove in the game’s lone run in the fifth on a one out single. Anthony Seratelli scored the lone run, as he went 2-for-3.

NW Arkansas was postponed against Springfield and the game will be made up as part of s doubleheader on June 13th. The two teams finish their series on Friday. Pitcher Matt Ridings was activated today, as Santiago Garrido was placed on the DL.

For the second straight night, the Wilmington Blue Rocks walked off against Salem. However this time it took 11 innings to win 7-6. Justin Trapp doubled to lead off the bottom of the 11th inning and moved to third base on a sac bunt. Jorge Bonifacio was the hero as he delivered the walk off sac fly.

The Blue Rocks trailed 6-2 heading into the bottom of the sixth when they erupted for four runs to tie the game. With the bases loaded and two outs, Daniel Mateo once again came through with a bases clearing double. Bonifacio followed with an RBI single.

The two teams’ pitching staffs shut down the opposing offenses, as both teams had chances to score, especially in extra innings. The Blue Rocks had the winning run on third base in the ninth, but a ground out sent the game into extra innings. In the tenth, Salem had the bases loaded, but a ground out ended the inning.

Every Blue Rocks hitter had at least one hit, with Mateo, Bonifacio, and Parker Morin picking up two each. Those three drove in all seven runs.

Antonio Cruz and Andrew Triggs (who picked up the win) combined to throw five scoreless innings of relief. They also combined to strike out eight.

Lexington came back to beat host Delmarva, 3-2. The Legends scored the tying run in the top of the ninth on Humberto Arteaga‘s RBI single (one of his two hits). In the top of the tenth, they scored the go ahead run on a wild pitch (and had the bases loaded).

The Legends bullpen trio of Ali Williams, Cory Hall, and Mark Peterson combined to throw five scoreless innings of relief. They struck out five.

Michael Antonio and Adalberto Mondesi each picked up two hits.

NW Arkansas lost to Springfield, 9-3. The Cardinals scored four runs in the third and single runs from the 5th inning on.

Noel Arguelles took the loss, as he allowed five runs (four earned) on four hits and six walks over five innings.

The Naturals did collect nine hits, but went just 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position. Matt Fields and Manny Pina each hit solo homeruns (Pina went 2-for-4). Mitch Canham continued his hot-hitting with a 3-for-4 night. Alex Llanos made his Double-A debut with a 1-for-4 night.

Wilmington has now won two in a row with a 3-2 walk off win over visiting Salem. Cheslor Cuthbert stepped to the plate with one out in the bottom of the 9th inning against Red Sox reliever Michael McCarthy. He took the first pitch and blasted the second over the left field wall.

Check out Cheslor’s postgame interview (he is really quiet) and he gets a pie in the face at the end from Jack Lopez (at least I think that’s who it is):

It was a very quick and well-played game (just 2 hours and one minute).

The starting pitcher for Salem, Kyle Kaminska, only threw 65 pitches over six innings. Meanwhile, Kyle Smith allowed two runs on six hits and two walks over six innings for the Blue Rocks (90 pitches, 55 for strikes). He regularly hit 88-89 mph on the radar gun. Scott Alexander made his Frawley Stadium debut and allowed just one hit over three scoreless innings of relief to earn his first High-A victory.

Lexington beat Delmarva, 3-1. It was the Legends first trip to Maryland since 2010.

The Legends scored all three runs in the first inning on a Humberto Arteaga bases clearing triple. The inning started with back-to-back strikeouts. Arteaga collected two hits.

Miguel Almonte earned his first win, as he allowed just one hit over six innings. He did walk three while striking out nine. That lone hit led off the 6th inning (a triple). Alec Mills followed with three innings of relief to earn his third save of the season. He only allowed one hit.

Justin Marks made his Triple-A debut this season and allowed two runs on five hits and three walks over just four innings. He struck out three. Francisley Bueno followed with two perfect innings of relief, before Everett Teaford and Michael Mariot each threw a scoreless inning.

The Storm Chasers collected ten hits, with Johnny Giavotella, Xavier Nady, and Willy Taveras each picking up two hits.

*Brian Sanches was placed on the inactive list to make room for Marks.

July 8, 2012; Kansas City, MO, USA; World pitcher Yordano Ventura throws a pitch during the first inning of the 2012 All Star Futures Game at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

NW Arkansas shut out Springfield in the home series opener, 4-0.

Yordano Ventura allowed just one hit (and three walks) over five shutout innings. He struck out ten. The Cardinals first hit came with two outs in the fifth. Ventura struck out the side in both the first and third innings.

Cole White got into trouble in the sixth, and Andy Ferguson escaped the bases loaded mess (2.1IP, 3H, 0R, OBB, K). After Nick Rogers put two men on base, Edwin Carl cleaned up the mess to pick up his fourth save of the season.

On offense for the Naturals, Mitch Canham went 2-for-4 with an RBI in the first. Yem Prades hit a solo homerun in the third.

*With Marks’ promotion, outfielder Alex Llanos was activated from extended spring training.

The Wilmington Blue Rocks broke their seven-game losing streak with a 10-3 victory over Salem.

Their offense busted out for 13 hits, with eight of them coming from the Blue Rocks top three hitters. Justin Trapp, Daniel Mateo, and Jorge Bonifacio went 8-for-12 with seven runs scored and five RBIs. They also walked three times. Bonifacio also hit his first homerun of the season in the bottom of the first, a no-doubter into the left field bullpen.

But it was not just about the Blue Rocks offense. John Lamb returned to the rotation after having his last start skipped. He allowed two runs on four hits and one walk over six innings. He struck out seven and was only beat by Garrin Cecchini, who hit two doubles and a homerun.

He only threw 73 pitches, but had long waits due to the offensive outbursts (the Blue Rocks batted around in the bottom of the sixth). Lamb only threw 13 pitches over his last two innings. The only negative was the velocity of his pitches. I kept an eye on the Blue Rocks radar gun and the highest it read over his final innings was 84. In a three pitch at-bat, he threw 83, 72, and 67.

Check out what Lamb had to say following his start:

Kellen Moen followed with two innings (25 pitches, 16 for strikes), before Robinson Yambati threw just 11 pitches in the ninth (which included a walk and a strikeout).

Mar 18, 2013; Surprise, AZ, USA; Kansas City Royals second baseman Johnny Giavotella (9) swings at a pitch during the fifth inning against the Texas Rangers at Surprise Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

The Zephyrs led 4-0 after the second inning.

All of the Storm Chasers runs came via Johnny Giavotella, who drove in single runs in the third, fifth, and ninth innings. David Lough went 3-for-5 from the leadoff spot. The 7-9 hitters (Brandon Wood, Irving Falu, and Willy Taveras) went a combined 7-for-12 with three runs scored.

NW Arkansas lost their finale in Tulsa by a final of 8-2. The game was close (3-2) heading into the 5th inning when the Drillers put up a five-spot against Naturals starter Sugar Ray Marimon.

Marimon only allowed four earned runs, as the Naturals defense committed three fielding errors.

After Marimon left the game (with two men on base in the fifth), the Naturals bullpen was lights-out. Jon Keck and JC Sulbaran combined to pitch 3.1 hitless innings of relief.

The Naturals collected just six hits, two by Mitch Canham (including a triple).

They now return home for eight games, beginning with four against Springfield.

*In roster news, Brett Eibner was put on the DL with a shoulder injury, though it was a precautionary move. Reliever Matt Ridings was also “sent” to rookie ball. Relievers Nick Rogers and Cole White were activated from rookie ball.

Wilmington lost their seventh in a row, as they lost their series opener to Salem, 5-4.

It was a great pitching matchup of Red Sox prospect Henry Owens against Royals top prospect Kyle Zimmer. Well, Owens was the better pitcher on Monday night. Owens struck out eight over five innings, while Zimmer allowed five runs on six hits and two walks over just four innings.

The 3rd inning was Zimmer’s undoing, as he allowed four runs. It started with a Sean Coyle single (he led off the game with a homerun) and continued with two more singles, a walk, a wild pitch, a stolen base, and two RBI ground outs.

Cody Fassold and Spencer Patton combined to throw five scoreless innings of relief while striking out eight.

Both teams struck out a ton: Red Sox 13, Blue Rocks 11. On offense for the Blue Rocks, Daniel Mateo went 2-for-4 with two RBIs and Lane Adams drove in a run with a triple.

With the game tied at 2-2, Augusta scored two runs in the top of the 8th inning to beat Lexington, 4-2. The Legends’ two runs came via Bubba Starling‘s fourth homerun of the season with two outs in the 5th inning.

Bryan Brickhouse had another solid start, as he allowed two runs on two hits over seven innings. He struck out five. Mark Peterson entered with the bases loaded in the 8th inning in relief of Clayton Schulz and left them stranded. He pitched 1.1 perfect innings.

The Legends have Tuesday off before heading out on the road again, starting in Delmarva.

The ball must have been flying out of Werner Park, as the two teams combined to hit seven.

Ryan Verdugo took the loss, as he allowed eight runs (five earned) on nine hits and four walks over 4.2 innings. He allowed three homeruns. Outside of Dan Wheeler giving up two runs in the seventh, the Omaha bullpen pitched well.

Omaha fought back to score two runs in the bottom of the ninth, but their rally fell short.

David Lough drove in those 9th inning runs with a two out, two-run homer. Chad Tracy went 3-for-4 and Brandon Wood collected two hits in the loss. Wood drove in two runs, but his error cost them three runs.

Brooks Pounders in 2012 with Wilmington (Jen Nevius)

NW Arkansas lost a heartbreaker in Tulsa, 4-3. The Drillers scored three runs in the bottom of the ninth. Kyle Parker hit a two-run homerun to tie the game and three batters later, an RBI single gave Tulsa the walk off win. Santiago Garrido took the loss, as he allowed three runs on four hits over one inning.

The walk off loss negated the solid start from Brooks Pounders (his first of the season). He allowed an unearned run on one hit and one walk over five innings. He struck out three. The only hit he allowed came in the first. Matt Ridings followed with 2.2 scoreless innings of relief. He only allowed one hit, which came from the first batter he faced in the sixth.

The Naturals collected just four hits, with Angel Franco hitting his first homerun of the season in the fourth and Manny Pina’s double drove in two runs in the seventh.

Wilmington was swept at home by Winston-Salem with a 4-1 Sunday loss. The Blue Rocks have now lost six in a row and welcome Salem to town for four games. The Dash took a 1-0 lead in the first and tacked on runs late.

The Blue Rocks had the bases loaded with just one out in the bottom of the ninth, but could not score. They went just 2-for-9 with runners in scoring position.

Aaron Brooks was the hard luck loser, as he allowed one run on six hits and two walks over 4.2 innings. He struck out five. Malcom Culver followed and allowed a solo homerun with one out in the 8th inning (his fourth inning of work). Antonio Cruz ran into some trouble in the ninth inning for the first time this season (two runs, though only one was earned).

Blue Rocks manager Vance Wilson was tossed in the 6th inning, maybe to light a fire under his team (it came after Culver hit Dash player Courtney Hawkins). I believe it is his first ejection of the season.

Lexington broke their five game losing streak with a 7-4 win over Augusta on Sunday. The two teams finish their series on Monday.

With the game tied at 3-3, the Legends scored three runs in the bottom of the 8th inning. They only collected three hits in the inning, but were helped out by two walks and a run scoring wild pitch.

Chas Byrne made his 2013 debut and allowed just two hits over three scoreless innings of relief to pick up the win.

Humberto Arteaga, Nick Cuckovich, and Ethan Chapman each went 2-for-4. Chapman hit a double. Bubba Starling hit his third homerun of the season.

The Storm Chasers pounded out 21 hits, as six players had multi-hit games. Five of those hits came in the first inning.

Xavier Nady went 5-for-5 with three runs scored and four RBIs. He hit two doubles and a homerun (and fell a triple short of the cycle). Irving Falu went 4-for-5. Anthony Seratelli went 3-for-5 with two runs scored and three RBIs. He and David Lough also hit solo homeruns.

Brian Sanches was the beneficiary of the run support, as he allowed two runs on five hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out three. Blaine Boyer followed with two perfect innings of relief before George Sherrill threw a hitless ninth.

NW Arkansas scored three runs in the top of the 10th inning en route to their 5-2 win over Tulsa. It all started with a walk to Matt Fields and he came around to score on an Alex McClure sac fly. In that inning, the Naturals collected four hits, a walk, and two sac flies.

Whit Merrifield and Mitch Canham each collected three hits in the win. Angel Franco went 2-for-4.

Jason Adam had his best start of the 2013 season, as he allowed two runs on seven hits and two walks over five innings. He struck out five. Andy Ferguson followed with three scoreless innings of relief before Edwin Carl earned his first win of the season (2IP, 3H, 0R, BB).

Brett Eibner went 2-for-4, but left in the tenth with an injured shoulder after stealing second base (he had just driven in a run with a single and he did not strike out in the game).

The Wilmington Blue Rocks ensured themselves of a series loss to Winston-Salem, as they lost the second game of the series by a 2-0 score. The Dash scored in the top of the first. The Blue Rocks have now lost a season-high five in a row.

The Blue Rocks did not pick up their first hit until Justin Trapp singled to lead off the 6th inning (the night before he went 4-for-5 and fell a homerun short of the cycle).

Sam Selman was the hard luck loser, though his control waivered. He allowed two runs (one earned and he had an error) on three hits, but five walks. He struck out five. Scott Alexander made his High-A debut and pitched three hitless innings of relief (Daniel Hernandez was sent back to Lexington).

They lost the first game of the series on Friday night in ten innings, with errors proving costly. The Blue Rocks have now lost five of six games to the Dash.

*Chris Elder returned from the DL on Friday, as Tim Ferguson was placed on the DL with right shoulder inflammation.

After leading 6-4 heading into the top of the ninth, Lexington lost to Augusta, 12-6. Augusta scored two runs in the ninth and six more in the top of the 10th inning. The Legends have lost five games in a row and eight of nine games to Augusta this season (five in a row).

Ali Williams took the loss, as he allowed all eight of Augusta’s late inning runs on seven hits and two walks over just 1.2 innings. Daniel Stumpf got the start and allowed his first earned runs of the season. His line looked like this: 5IP, 5H, 4R, 3ER, 3BB, 3K. Daniel Hernandez returned to Lexington and allowed one inherited run to score. He did not allow a run of his own over 2.2 innings.

The Legends scored their six runs over the third and fourth innings. Raul Mondesi drove in two runs in the 3rd inning on a triple. Bubba Starling went 2-for-5 with three RBIs and Yowill Espinal went 2-for-4 with two runs scored.

The night before, Lexington only collected three hits and were pounded, 12-1.

After Everett Teaford allowed two inherited runners to score, he and Francisley Bueno combined to throw 5.1 scoreless innings while striking out eight. However, the Cubs scored single runs in each of the final three innings.

The Storm Chasers collected ten hits, with three hitters collecting six of them. Johnny Giavotella was one of them, as he hit his second homerun of the season, a solo shot in the first. All of their runs came with two outs.

*Paulo Orlando was placed on the DL with a left foot contusion. Willy Taveras was activated.

NW Arkansas received a solid start from Justin Marks en route to their 6-2 win in Springfield. The Naturals split the four game series and now head to Tulsa for four games.

Marks allowed one run on four hits and three walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out seven. Brooks Pounders followed with 1.1 perfect innings of relief before Jon Keck allowed another Cardinals run in the eighth. Edwin Carl finished off the Cardinals with 1.1 perfect innings.

The Naturals only collected five hits, with four going for extra bases. Yem Prades hit a solo homerun in the 4th inning, which gave them the lead. Matt Fields added a two-run shot in the eighth.

Wilmington lost their four-game series in Salem, with a 7-3 loss in the finale. The Blue Rocks actually led 3-0 after the 3rd inning, but the bullpen could not hold it.

Spencer Patton got the spot start as John Lamb was skipped to rest his arm (should we be concerned?). He was solid, as he allowed one run on three hits and two walks over 3.2 innings. He struck out four. However, Cody Fassold and Robinson Yambati combined to allow six runs (four earned) on seven hits and four walks over 4.1 innings. The Red Sox scored four runs in the 7th inning to take the lead.

The Blue Rocks collected seven hits, with Justin Trapp and Cheslor Cuthbert picking up two each. They return home to start a seven-game homestand to play the same two teams they just visited: Winston-Salem and Salem.

*On a side note, Angel Baez was placed on the DL with a sore hand. Not sure if the Blue Rocks will continue with their six-man rotation or not, but skipping Lamb tonight doesn’t help. Baez was slated to start on Saturday, though the Blue Rocks game notes have everyone moving up a day. Their next four starters are Kyle Smith, Sam Selman, Aaron Brooks, and Kyle Zimmer.

Lexington was swept in Asheville by losing 3-0 in the finale. The Legends now return home to play Augusta over the weekend.

The Legends did not pick up their first hit until Michael Antonio singled to lead off the 7th inning. Ethan Chapman picked up their other hit in the 9th inning (he also stole a base and was picked off).

Christian Binford was the hard luck loser, as he allowed two runs on six hits over seven innings. He struck out eight and did not issue a walk.

*Last night, catching prospect Cameron Gallagher was hit by a pitch and put on the DL. Alexander Marquez was activated.

The Naturals lost the first game, 8-1 after having a 1-0 lead heading into the 3rd inning. The Cardinals blew the game open in the bottom of the 6th inning against JC Sulbaran, who allowed three homeruns.

Roman Hernandez drove in the lone run with a two out double in the 2nd inning.

In the second game, the Naturals won 10-3, as they scored five runs in the first inning. The big blow was Matt Fields‘ two out, three-run homerun (his third of the season).

The Naturals collected ten hits, with Brett Eibner (2-for-4) and Yem Prades (3-for-4) having multi-hit games.

Sam Runion picked up the win, despite allowing two inherited runners to score in the 5th inning. Yordano Ventura got the start, but lasted just 4.1 innings. He allowed three runs (two earned) on four hits and three walks while striking out six. Andy Ferguson pitched a scoreless inning of relief and threw just nine pitches.

Wilmington blew a 4-2 lead, as host Salem walked off with a 5-4 win. Keury De La Cruz drove in the final two Red Sox runs with a one out double.

The Blue Rocks collected 14 hits, with all of them coming from the first five hitters. However, they went just 3-for-11 with runners in scoring position. Lane Adams continues his hot hitting, as he went 2-for-5 with two RBIs and his eighth double of the season (it upped his average to .304). Jorge Bonifacio went 2-for-4 (with his seventh double of the season) to up his average to .329. Daniel Mateo went 3-for-5 and hit a solo homerun in the ninth.

Kyle Zimmer made the start and struck out 11, but lasted just 4.2 innings. He allowed one run on three hits and four walks. Daniel Hernandez made his debut for the Blue Rocks (I cannot find a move that was made to add him because their roster is now over the limit) and allowed a solo homerun in his two innings of work.

Wilmington and Salem finish their series on Thursday.

Lexington lost to Asheville, 6-3. The two teams complete their series on Thursday.

The Legends collected ten hits, with Terrence Gore, Michael Antonio, and Ethan Chapman each picking up two hits. Chapman stole two more bases to up his total to 12. Gore also stole his 12th base.

Miguel Almonte dropped to 0-3 on the season, as he allowed five runs (four earned) on six hits and two walks over five innings.

In bad news, catcher Cameron Gallagher was hit by a pitch in the first inning and tried to stay in the game. He left in the second inning, which led to a crazy box score.

*Omaha had off and opens a four game homestand against Iowa on Thursday night.

Omaha collected 12 hits and every hitter except Xavier Nady had at least one. They were led by leadoff hitter David Lough, who went 4-for-5 with two runs scored. He fell a homerun short of the cycle. Brett Hayes hit two solo homeruns.

Ryan Verdugo picked up his first win of the season with seven scoreless innings. He allowed five hits while striking out three.

NW Arkansas was rained out in Springfield on Tuesday night. The two teams will play a doubleheader on Wednesday beginning at 11:09am.

For the second straight night, Salem scored early and often against visiting Wilmington. On Tuesday night, they held on for the 8-1 win. All eight runs were scored over the first two innings.

However after Blue Rocks starter Aaron Brooks left the game (3.2IP, 8H, 8R, 2BB, 5K, 2HR), their bullpen kept the Red Sox off the scoreboard. It started with Antonio Cruz, who only allowed one hit and a walk over 3.1 scoreless innings. He lowered his ERA to 0.69. Malcom Culver finished off Salem with a hitless inning.

On offense in the loss, Lane Adams collected his seventh double of the season, one of his two hits. Daniel Mateo also picked up two hits.

Lexington lost to Asheville, 4-3. The Legends led 3-2 before giving up two runs in the bottom of the 7th inning. They had the tying run on second base with two outs in the 9th inning, but a ground out ended the game.

Scott Alexander took the loss in relief, as he allowed a two out, two-run triple in the seventh. It was the first earned runs he had allowed so far this season (over five games). That negated the solid start by Bryan Brickhouse, who allowed two runs on six hits and two walks over five innings. He struck out three.

On offense in the loss, Adalberto Mondesi and Bubba Starling each picked up two hits. The Legends 2-3 hitters drove in their three runs. Jin-Ho Shin also picked up two hits. Ethan Chapman, despite hitting just .246, stole his tenth base of the season.

Will Smith in Omaha. Photo by Minda Haas (mindahaas.net)

Five Storm Chasers collected multi-hit games. Brandon Wood hit his first homerun of the season, a three-run shot in the 6th inning. Their 3-5 hitters: Johnny Giavotella, Xavier Nady, and Anthony Seratelli went a combined 7-for-14 with with four runs scored and six RBIs. David Lough continued to stay hot by going 2-for-5 with two runs scored.

Will Smith returned from his one day stint with the big league KC Royals (he was the 26th man for yesterday’s doubleheader and did not pitch) to have a great start (Atahualpa Severino was put on the DL). He allowed one run on five hits over six innings. He struck out eight. The lone run came via a solo homerun by former Royals minor leaguer Jeff Bianchi. George Sherrill and Blaine Boyer each pitched a scoreless inning around Donnie Joseph‘s disastrous 8th inning (1IP, 3H, 2R, BB, 2K).

NW Arkansas blew a 4-0 lead and lost in Springfield, 9-6. The Naturals had tied the game at 6-6 in the top of the 7th inning on a Matt Fields two-run single (only to see the Cardinals come right back in the bottom of the inning).

It started out so well for Jason Adam, who did not allow a run over the first three innings. Then it all fell apart. He balked a runner into scoring position (which scored on a single) and then allowed a two-run homerun in the 4th inning. In the fifth, he left after allowing two more runs on two hits and a walk. Brooks Pounders entered in relief and allowed an inherited runner to score.

Pounders then allowed three runs of his own in the bottom of the 7th inning on two doubles and a homerun and took the loss. Matt Ridings made his Double-A debut with a scoreless inning of relief (he took Nick Rogers‘ spot on the roster, who was “sent” to rookie ball).

On offense in the loss, four players picked up two hits. Orlando Calixte, Rey Navarro, and Manny Pina each collected doubles.

Jorge Bonifacio with Wilmington in their 2013 home opener (Jen Nevius).

Down 7-2 heading into the 5th inning, Wilmington came back to beat Salem, 10-7 in their first game in Virginia. It took 11 innings to complete.

The Blue Rocks tied the game in the top of the 9th inning on a Jack Lopez RBI single. In the eleventh, Lane Adams reached on a fielding error (which scored a run) and Jorge Bonifacio followed with a two-run triple (he went 4-for-6 with five RBIs and fell a homerun short of the cycle). Adams hit his first homerun of the season, which cut their deficit to 7-6 in the 7th inning (he also stole a base).

After a poor start by Sam Selman (2.1IP, 5H, 7R, 4BB, 3K), the Blue Rocks bullpen was stellar. It started with Kellen Moen, who pitched four shutout innings. He also picked two runners off first base. Cody Fassold followed with 2.2 hitless innings of relief before Andrew Triggs finished with two scoreless innings of relief to earn the win.

Lexington had off on Monday and will begin a three-game series in Asheville on Tuesday.

David Lough (Photo: Minda Haas)

The offense also clicked, collecting 15 hits.

The top three in the Storm Chasers order (David Lough, Christian Colon, and Johnny Giavotella) went a combined 8-for-14 with two runs scored and five RBIs. Lough fell a triple short of the cycle. Brett Hayes picked up three hits and Chad Tracy went 2-for-3. Both hit doubles.

NW Arkansas lost their finale at home against Tulsa, 8-2. The Naturals then head out onto the road for eight days, beginning with Springfield.

It was a rough start for Noel Arguelles, as he left with the bases loaded and two outs in the 4th inning. His line looked like this: 3.2IP, 6H, 5R, 4BB, 3K. Santiago Garrido stranded all three runners and ended up allowing one run on one hit and one walk over 3.1 innings. He struck out four.

On offense, Orlando Calixte and Rey Navarro both collected two hits, as the team picked up eight.

Wilmington salvaged their series in Winston-Salem with a 5-3 victory in Sunday’s finale. The Blue Rocks now play four games in Salem.

After Angel Baez only recorded one out in the 3rd inning, the Blue Rocks bullpen stepped up huge. Spencer Patton allowed just one hit and a walk over 3.2 innings. He struck out four to earn the win. Robinson Yambati allowed one hit and two walks over three scoreless innings to earn his third save of the season. He also struck out four.

In Wilmington’s three run 3rd inning, they picked up four hits, including a two out, two-run double by Tim Ferguson. Justin Trapp went 2-for-5 with a homerun. The middle of their order: Jorge Bonifacio, Cheslor Cuthbert, and Lane Adams each collected two hits. Adams hit two doubles.

Lexington completed their four-game sweep over Greenville with a 6-3 win on Sunday. The Legends will enjoy an off day on Monday before traveling to Asheville for three games.

Down 3-0 after the top of the first inning, the Legends received great pitching and some timely hitting. They took the lead for good in the bottom of the 6th inning on a wild pitch.

On offense, Bubba Starling hit his second homerun of the season (he went 2-for-5). Adalberto Mondesi went 2-for-3 with two RBIs and a stolen base and Terrence Gore went 3-for-4.

After Aroni Nina lasted just four innings (and allowed three unearned runs), the Legends bullpen completely shut down the Drive. Ali Williams earned the win after pitching three perfect innings. He struck out seven. Clayton Schulz earned his first save with two scoreless innings.