Tuesday, September 02, 2008

Clinton Lumberkings vs. Cedar Rapids Kernels

Low-A: Clinton 2, at Cedar Rapids 1
Win: Quintero (7-6, 5.93)
Save: Castillo (4, 5.24)

Justin Smoak’s double and two singles provided one-half of Clinton’s hit total. Engel Beltre drew two walks in a game for the first time since August 21, 2007. Unfortunately, he also tallied his 11th caught stealing.

Blake Beavan lowered his ERA to 2.37 with four scoreless innings. Beavan had an effective but strange debut marked by Maddux-esque control and fewer strikeouts than most of us (me, certainly) envisioned due to a hopefully temporary decline in velocity. Beavan’s K rate did improve to a league-average 20% over his last nine starts. He was a bit homer-prone (12 in 122 IP), considering the league, though again he improved as the season progressed. He’ll be one of 2009’s most interesting stories.

Jorge Quintero tossed four innings and allowed the Kernels’ lone run. Fabio Castillo locked down the 9th.

RHP Cody Eppley (2.10 ERA in 26 IP in Arizona) is with Clinton.

Clinton is in the playoffs. Beavan is scheduled to pitch tonight.

Home Plate

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