In 2011, Vinnie Catricala was the best player in the Mariners minor league system – two years later the Sacramento, California native is retiring from baseball.

“I am just moving on (with my life) and actually one month into the Sacramento Police Academy,” said Catricala on Monday night. “I am really excited about the police department and my future.”

It has been a rough 16 months since earning Mariners Minor League Player of the Year honors in 2011.

Catricala batted .349 with a .421 on-base percentage that included 25 home runs, 48 doubles and 106 RBIs during the 2011 season combined between High-A High Desert and Double-A Jackson. After moving up from High Desert, he batted .347 for the Generals in 62 games to close out the year. He actually finished against better competition in and posted a higher slugging percentage of .632 in Double-A.

I remember a road trip to Mobile in August, 2011 and Mariners GM Jack Zduriencik paying a visit while on the east coast. The first thing I heard Zduriencik say was that he came to see this Vincent Catricala. He made an impact.

In 2012, things began to go downhill. Catricala batted just .229 for Triple-A Tacoma in 122 games and posted just a .348 slugging percentage. He hit 10 home runs and drove in 60 runs, but had an on-base percentage under .300.

Catricala was demoted to Jackson beginning 2013 and his struggles continued as he hit just .253 with 3 home runs and 21 RBIs in 48 games. He was designated for assignment on June 2^nd. The Oakland Athletics snagged him off of waivers and assigned him to Double-A Midland. He hit just .229 the rest of the season and had an infamous one-pitch strikeout.

Catricala was then designated for assignment by Oakland at the end of the season, but cleared waivers. The Milwaukee Brewers selected him in the Rule 5 draft this past December and he probably would have begun the season with Triple-A Nashville had he not chosen retirement.

Catricala played a total of 110 games in Jackson in 2011 and 2013.

We should wish him well.

2013 Generals outfielder James Jones received an unexpected phone call about 11:20 on Wednesday night from Mariners Farm Director Chris Gwynn.

“Chris told me that they were adding me to the 40-man roster and to keep working hard and doing what you are doing,” said Jones.

The phone call caught him off guard as Mariners Director of Amateur Scouting Tom McNamara was also on the call.

“I was speechless, it was just really awesome,” added Jones.

James has for the most part fallen under the radar since being drafted out of LIU Brooklyn in the 4^th round of 2009’s draft. He’s an athletic outfielder that has freakish speed and decent power for his build. He led the Southern League in triples with 10 in 2013, which was one away from the franchise record. As a whole he batted .275, with 6 home runs, 14 doubles, 10 triples and 45 RBIs. He committed just 5 errors in 101 games and logged 7 outfield assists.

“I felt like I took big strides (last season), especially defensively and getting good reads on the ball,” said Jones. I felt comfortable earlier in the season as well. I also think this past season, with help from the staff, I gained a better understanding what type of player I am and not do too much.”

He did get off to a tremendous start in 2013 batting .299, with an .871 OPS during the month of April. He was a Southern League All-Star and more importantly a team leader for Jackson.

Jones missed all but four games in August with a triceps injury to his throwing arm. He was promoted to Tacoma and played four games for the Rainiers (where he should start in 2014) to close the season. He went from there to Arizona.

“It was great to play in Co-Op games after the season. It was good to just pick up and continue playing for another month when the season ended. Our team was a split squad with the Brewers and we played the Reds, Diamondbacks, Rangers and Royals. But, I’m feeling really healthy right now.

If Jones makes it to Seattle, fans will fall in love with the Brooklyn, NY native. He has a contagious personality and is always smiling. He is constantly uplifting and will do anything to encourage a teammate or even a broadcaster.

This offseason he is giving back to his hometown.

“On Saturday’s I work with the New York City Varsity League’s at the Brookyln Cyclones ballpark. We do drills with them and it’s just a lot of fun. Former players like John Halama and John Franco also help with the league,” Jones added.

Jones still works out at his alma mater LIU-Brooklyn. “I’ve been working out a lot with the team on Monday through Friday’s. I chilled a little bit and then got back into training about three weeks ago.”

Jones on Logan Bawcom, Ji-Man Choi and Stefen Romero being added to the 40-man roster.  

“It’s a good bunch very talented players there. I am really happy for them. I am hoping for the best for all of them to help out the Mariners.”

On who he keeps in contact with the most this offseason

“I stay in contact with a lot of guys but mostly Jack (Marder), Mickey Wiswall , John Hicks, Mike Dowd and Leon (Landry).”

On Mariners new manager Lloyd McClendon

“I think it is exciting.  All the interviews that I’ve seen he seems like genuine dude and is going to be there for guys to develop. I am looking forward to gettingto know him and just being a sponge.”

Yes, it is only November 7^th, but while following the Arizona Fall League, the Mariners hiring of new manager Lloyd McClendon and the baseball Winter Meetings coming up in less than a month, baseball is our mind. So, why not take a look at what the Jackson Generals roster could potentially look like in 2014.

First and foremost, you need a manager, and I won’t handicap the Generals coaching possibilities like Mike Curto did with the Rainiers, but I really hope Jim Pankovits does get a promotion to Tacoma. He has earned it and is a great baseball mind. Pankovits recorded 210 wins in three seasons as Jackson’s Manager which is second in franchise history (Bobby Dickerson, 291). As far as candidates that could potentially lead the Generals in 2014? High Desert’s Jim Horner probably leads the way. Horner is a former minor league player for the Mariners and reached as high as Tacoma as a player. He has managed Low-A Wisconsin and was the California League Manager of the Year in 2009 with High Desert. He spent two years since 2009 at the college level with Texas Tech before returning to the M’s in 2013. My wildcard and wishful thinking candidate is Mr. Mariner Alvin Davis. The consummate class act and M’s legend would be terrific as a Minor League manager. Chris Woodward, who joined the Mariners as an infield coordinator in 2013 is a possibility as well.

Now, on to the roster. First off, lets eliminate players that have done what is necessary to graduate from Double-A. These players, in my opinion have accomplished enough to begin the season with Tacoma (or higher) in 2014.

SS Chris Taylor
OF James Jones
OF Julio Morban
LHP Anthony Fernandez
LHP Roenis Elias
RHP Carson Smith
LHPJames Gillheeney
RHP Dominic Leone
RHP Stephen Kohlscheen
LHP Nick Hill

I could see a couple of scenarios where Chris Taylor or Julio Morban end up back in Jackson to start 2014. Despite a significant amount of Double-A time for Taylor and an injury plagued season for Morban, they both have earned it. Everyone knows about Taylor and Morban, when healthy was one of the top hitters in the Southern League. Carson Smith and Dominic Leone are probably wildcards to make the Major League roster out of spring training.

With that said here is a look at a 25-man projected roster. Those in blue have Double-A experience. Those in red do not.

Starting Rotation:
LHP Cam Hobson
RHP Trevor Miller
LHP Kyle Hunter
RHP Victor Sanchez
LHP Tyler Pike

Other Candidates: LHP James Gillheeney, RHP Brett Shankin, LHP Jordan Shipers, RHP Dylan Unsworth, RHP Jordan Pries, LHP Anthony Fernandez, RHP Stephen Landazuri, RHP Edwin Diaz.

The Generals closed out the final two months of the season with four lefties in the rotation, and that could very well be the case opening the 2014 season. Top pitching prospects avoiding High Desert to me is a great idea. While Taijuan Walker struggled some in his first year in Jackson after jumping from Clinton, his development didn’t regress with the move. There are two perfect candidates for that in Tyler Pike and Victor Sanchez. Pike is the less likely of the two, who would be just 20 years old on Opening Day, 2014. The 3^rd round pick in 2012 out of Winter Haven, FL was 7-4, with a 2.37 ERA with 90 strikeouts in 110.1 IP and only allowed 6H/9IP. Sanchez, the top right-handed pitching prospect in the organization not named Taijuan Walker or Edwin Diaz was phenomenal in 2013, which included a no hitter on July 17^th against Lansing. The 19-year-old imposing righty from Venezuela (sound familiar?) was 6-6, with a 2.78 ERA in 20 starts, striking out 79 in 113.1 IP. The amazing stat from 2013 is he only walked 18 batters. That’s 1.4 BB/9IP. Cam Hobson, Trevor Miller and Kyle Hunter have Double-A experience and Hunter is a strong candidate to be a starter going forward. Diaz is a guy to keep an eye on. He probably will get the nod to start the season with Clinton. He was 5-2, with a 1.43 ERA 13 starts and 69 innings in 2013 for the Pulaski Mariners. He struck out 79 during that time which is 10.3K/9.0IP. Also, one of the more likely players to crack the rotation could be Jordan Pries, a 30^th draft pick in 2011 out of Stanford. The Alameda, CA native was 8-6, with a 5.13 ERA in 23 starts, 24 games covering 124.2 innings. He posted 104 strikeouts which ranked sixth in the Mariners Minors in 2013.

Relievers:
RHP David Colvin
RHP Tyler Burgoon
RHP Andrew Kittredge
RHP Stephen Shackleford
RHP Sean Gi Kam
RHP Matt Brazis
RHP Jandy Sena
RHP Moises Hernandez

Other Candidates: RHP George Mieses, RHP Dominic Leone, RHP Stephen Kohlscheen, RHP Blake Hauser, RHP Bobby Shore, LHP Jeremy Dobbs.

There really isn’t a “top prospect” out of this bullpen list, but there is some guys with great upside. Tyler Burgoon is a guy that has pitched well in Double-A, but just due to numbers probably won’t break through to Triple-A to begin the season. David Colvin’s High Desert numbers in 2013 are hard to overlook. The 27^th round pick in 2011 out of Pormona College (CA) was 5-0, with a 2.34 ERA in 32 games and 62 strikeouts in 57.2 IP. He only allowed two home runs and walked just 13. Kam and Brazis were the High Desert leaders in appearances and Sena missed all of the 2013 season due to injury. Free agent Moises Hernandez is destined to be on the roster no matter what you think. If you are looking for local flair, LHP Jeremy Dobbs is from Owensboro, Ky and attended Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN.

Outfielders:
Jabari Blash
Leon Landry
Jamal Austin
Kevin Rivers

Other Candidates: Jabari Henry, Julio Morban, Mickey Wiswall, James Jones, Mike McGee, Austin Wilson, Nathan Melendres, Guillermo Pimentel.

The four guys projected for the Jackson outfield combined to steal 85 bases in 2013. Jabari Blash and Kevin Rivers combined for 45 home runs and 171 RBIs in 2013. Offensive numbers normally don’t translate from High Desert to Jackson, but Blash actually improved on his numbers. His OPS with High Desert in 80 games was .864 and while with Jackson, 1.060. His on-base percentage jumped from .358 to .442. How do you explain that? Well, some players improve when facing better pitching and Blash was brilliant in August for the Generals. Rivers is another Franklin Pierce University guy ala Scott Savastano and Michael Dowd. Landry was one of the biggest disappointments in the organization in 2013. He batted just .216 with just a .262 OBP and 22 steals in 114 games. How can he rebound from the lackluster 2013? Better pitch selection. Leon Landry walked just 26 times in 422 at-bats. This is a bit of a do-or-die season for Leon with many young outfielders coming up in the system. Keep an eye on Austin Wilson. The 2013 2^nd round pick out of Stanford played in 56 games for Everett batting .241, with 6 home runs, 27 RBIs, 11 doubles and 3 triples.

Infielders:
2B Jack Marder
3B Ramon Morla
SS Gabriel Noriega
1B Steven Proscia
3B Patrick Kivlehan
1B/3B D.J. Peterson

Other Candidates: 2B Patrick Brady, SS Ketel Marte, UTIL Nathan Melendres, 2B Dillon Hazlett, UTIL Brock Hebert, 1B Tyler Ard.

This is where it gets really exciting. Add to the fact there is a slight chance Chris Taylor begins 2014 in Jackson, this could be one of the most talented infields in Minor League Baseball. Patrick Kivlehan had a breakout season in 2013 batting .303, with 16 home runs, 90 RBIs, 25 doubles and 15 steals in 128 games combined between Clinton and High Desert. The former Rutgers football and baseball star has struggled a bit in the AFL, but the M’s 4^th rounder in 2012’s ceiling is quite high. D.J. Peterson needs no build up. He was rated as the best pure hitter of the 2013 draft class and only hit .303, with 13 homers and 47 RBIs in his first 55 pro games for Everett and Clinton. The only thing that could keep the 12^th overall pick out of New Mexico from beginning 2014 in Jackson is lack of pro experience and the injury he suffered after being hit in the face by a pitch in August. Jackson is no stranger to college offensive stars getting pushed quickly. Dustin Ackley made his pro debut in Jackson in 2010. Mike Zunino played 29 games in Everett prior to his promotion to Jackson in 2012. Ackley struggled while Zunino thrived. It is not an exact science. So, while starting Peterson starting in High Desert wouldn’t be a huge surprise, he’s probably a guy that could handle the jump to Double-A ala Zunino. This is an infield heavy on the corners with Morla/Proscia/Peterson/Kivlehan all projected there. But, things usually work themselves out. Don’t rule out Kivlehan or Peterson making a jump to the outfield just to see how it goes. Jack Marder is a guy that started to figure some things out at the end of the season and Noriega has done nothing but get better offensively each year. Gabriel Noriega is the best defender in the system and turned the 2nd triple play in franchise history on June 10, 2013 vs. Chattanooga. A couple of names to look out for is Patrick Brady and Ketel Marte.

That could possibly be the double play combination in the second half of the season. Marte is a really talented shortstop prospect that has a great glove. The 20-year-old from Dominican’s bat has improved, but still needs some work. I really like Brady. I heard Jabari Blash I think on twitter call him a poor man’s Dustin Pedroia. A 48^th round draft pick out of Bellarmine College (KY) hit .344 in a short 12-game stint for Jackson last season. One set back is that he has never played more than 86 games in a season. But, as a utility guy, he is a manager’s dream.

Catchers:
John Hicks
Michael Dowd

Other Candidates: Brandon Bantz, Steve Baron, Tyler Marlette, random free agent guy.

Oh the catching situation. Is there a position that had so much hope this time last season taken a longer fall? After a deep breath…you still have some nice young players. Last year proved you can never have too many solid young catchers in an organization. Nobody in minor league baseball was better at throwing out base stealers than John Hicks in 2013. He, Michael Dowd and Brandon Bantz set a franchise record by throwing out 51.5% percent of base stealers (68×132). The next closest in the Southern League was Pensacola at 34.4%. Hicks’ bat improved dramatically in the second half of the season posting a .278 post All-Star break batting average as opposed to .216 prior. He was 13-for-17 stealing bases and had he been 100% healthy that would have been significantly higher. John was banged up A LOT in 2013 and played through a lot of small injuries nobody knew about. I think Hicks could break out in 2014. Back-up catcher is kind of a crap shoot. Dowd and Bantz are top candidates to be in Tacoma or Jackson. Steve Baron was once a top catching prospect, but the former 33^rd overall pick in 2009 has yet to reach Double-A. Is this the year for Baron? Maybe. He batted just .208, with 5 home runs and 47 RBIs last season at High Desert striking out 93 times in 331 at-bats. Not much really positive to say except maybe with a new challenge he surprises us all. Tyler Marlette is probably the top catching prospect in the system right now. The 5^th rounder in 2011 out of high school in Florida batted .304, with 6 home runs, 37 RBIs, 17 doubles and a .367 on-base percentage in 75 games for Clinton in 2013. He likely will start the season with High Desert, but could potentially reach Jackson if Hicks is promoted.

Projected Starting Lineup:
1. Jamal Austin – CF
2. Leon Landry – LF
3. D.J. Peterson – 1B
4. Jabari Blash – RF
5. Patrick Kivlehan – 3B
6. Kevin Rivers – DH
7. John Hicks – C
8. Jack Marder – 2B
9. Gabriel Noriega – SS
P. Victor Sanchez – RHP

The Generals open the 2014 season on April 3rd at Chattanooga.

It’s so hard to get consistent play in the Arizona Fall League. Sharing positions with one or sometimes even two other players is not easy, especially considering these guys are used to playing day in and day out. That belief was in the Mariners’ 2013 Minor League Player of the Year, Chris Taylor’s mind, but he is proving it otherwise so far.

“Yeah, I thought it would be, but I don’t think (the inconsistent playing time) has really affected me so far,” added Taylor on not playing every day.

The numbers agree with that assessment by Taylor.

He’s leading Peoria in AVG (.409), OBP (.500), SLG (.545), without a home run mind you, and OPS (1.045). His .409 batting mark in six games ranks third in the AFL.

“I’ve been seeing the ball well,” said Taylor. “I’ve only played six games though so things can go up or down in a hurry. Still nice to get off to a good start though.”

I get asked often, what you can take away from these stats from the fall league. Well, what does Nate Roberts, Jedd Gyorko, Brent Morel and Dustin Ackley have in common? Have no idea? They are the AFL batting champions the last four years. So, while Gyorko and Ackley had their moments, it doesn’t necessarily mean you will tear it up at the Major League level soon. Eric Hosmer batted .203 during the 2010 AFL season. Logan Morrison, Daniel Murphy and Gordon Beckham were in the top 7 in batting in 2008. Matt Kemp finished second in the AFL in 2005 with a .383 batting average. In 2007, Jed Lowrie hit .163 in 24 AFL games. Get my point? There is no rhyme nor reason, but it’s fun to keep up with.

Taylor draws a lot of comparisons to Brad Miller. Both are terrific young middle infield prospects that come from the ACC. Neither are franchise changing players, but both can be solid pieces to a club. Taylor is more of a natural shortstop than Miller and Nick Franklin, while Taylor does not possess the power of Miller or Franklin.

Who does Taylor remind me of?

Taylor reminds me a lot of young Brewers second baseman Scooter Gennett. Gennett played for Huntsville in 2012 and hit .324 with 11 doubles, 3 triples, 6 home runs, 21 RBIs and 2 stolen bases in 69 games this season for Milwaukee. I think that is Chris Taylor in a nut shell.

Winning the Mariners MiLB Player of the Year award hasn’t really been an oman for future success. See Vinnie Catriciala’s epic fall from grace and Stefen Romero’s battle with injuries and position change. Although, I do believe Romero will end up being a solid player. Taylor has the potential to have a breakout season in 2013 more than likely starting in Triple-A Tacoma and knock on the door for an MLB promotion relatively quickly.

Mariners interview Chip Hale for managerial opening

GM Jack Zduriencik is in Arizona and met with Chip Hale of the A’s about the M’s managerial vacancy.

Interesting tidbit from that story is that Hale interviewed with the Mariners in 2008 when they hired Don Wakamatsu. Also intriguing is that Ted Simmons’ name was mentioned as a potential candidate. The former St. Louis Cardinals star catcher has spent many days at The Ballpark in Jackson over the last few years watching the young players in the organization. That’s an interesting name to keep an eye on in this process.

Taijuan Walker tweet of the week

I think he’s is referring to a Lil Wayne song, but it still made me laugh and is just random. But, that is just one of the million reasons why we love you dude.

There’s a new dog in town!

San Diego’s Triple-A affiliate has relocated to El Paso, TX from Tuscon and was named the Chihuahuas  on Wednesday. The name has been greeted with mixed reviews, but as this tweet below represents. It’s merchandising genius!

I personally don’t like the name and the dog logo looks a little strange, but I would probably buy a hat. So, El Paso, you win!

Haunted Stadium Continues

Don’t forget the Generals Haunted Stadium continues this Friday and Saturday from 6-11pm. The first weekend was a lot of fun and everyone that went through the tour was extremely happy and in some cases, soiling themselves scared. Come on out if haunted houses are your thing.

The Arizona Fall League is off and running and it didn’t take long for Peoria Javelinas manager Jim Pankovits to turn to the last addition to the roster, Kyle Hunter. The Javelinas dropped the opener to Surprise 7-6 after a comeback fell short at Surprise Stadium.

Hunter was magnificent in his AFL debut tossing two scoreless innings in the fourth and fifth, allowing just one hit and striking out three.

“I thought I pitched pretty well,” added Hunter. “I had all of my pitches working and just tried to pitch to contact. I had great defense behind me so I tried to make the hitters put the ball in play. There’s a lot of talent down here and I look forward to watching and playing against some of the best in minor league baseball.”

Hunter threw 28 pitches and 21 of which were strikes.

Stefen Romero batted third and played left field for the Javelinas finishing 1-for-3 with two runs scored, while 2012 Mariners fourth round draft choice Patrick Kivlehan was the DH and was 1-for-4.

Peoria plays again today at 12:35 MST against Scottsdale. Expect to see relievers Carson Smith and Dominic Leone to see action today.

Mariners sign OF Travis Witherspoon

The Mariners were active yesterday in claiming outfielder Travis Witherspoon off waivers from the LA Angels. Not hardly the splash addition Mariners fans would like, but a low risk, high reward type of a signing. The Mariners designated journeyman catcher Henry Blanco for assignment to make room on the 40-man roster.

“The 24-year-old was once thought to be a high upside prospect for the Halos but health issues last season and poor production this season have hurt his stock.  Witherspoon isn’t too far removed from a time where he drew comparisons to Padres outfielder Cameron Maybin,” notes Alden Gonzalez of MLB.com on Witherspoon.

You like the fact that he stole 30 bases last year and played in 129 games for AA Arkansas, but in 183 AA games has posted a .210 AVG with 17 HR’s, 59 RBIs and 39 SB’s.

Baseball America names top 20 Southern League prospects

Baseball America continued their release of the top-20 prospects from 2013 in each respective league. Tuesday was the Southern League’s turn and the depth of talent was evident when the No. 1 guy was one Yasiel Puig. Taijuan Walker was listed as No. 4 on the list while Brad Miller was No. 13 and Julio Morban was No. 17. Morban is really the only “prospect” of the three, but getting mentioned on that list of 20 players is impressive. It shows the respect Morban has earned despite the injury plagued seasons.

Haunted Stadium taking shape

I was a bit skeptical at first when I heard that we were doing a haunted ballpark. Some can be kind of cheesy. But, after going through a part of the tour that takes you through the clubhouse my mind was changed. There was nothing even set up to scare me and it was freaky. This will be good. Make plans if are in the West Tennessee area to visit the ballpark if haunted places are your thing. It all starts Friday and Saturday, October 18^th and 19^th and 25^th and 26^th. Then again on Halloween night.

Happy October everyone.

As the major league playoffs are in full swing, in a week so will the Arizona Fall League. Play opens on Tuesday and you can follow all the latest happenings in the AFL here.  The Mariners announced yesterday that Danny Hultzen underwent surgery on his left shoulder performed by Dr. James Andrews in Pensacola, FL. The surgery cleaned up the labrum and a partial tear of the rotator cuff, and repaired the capsule.

The good news is that hopefully this will fix things for good. He’s honestly been snake bit with injuries since he left Jackson in June of 2012. In fact, let’s look back and see just how dominant he was during his first three months as a pro.

Hultzen went 8-3 in 13 starts and posted a league-best 1.19 ERA in 75.1 innings at the SL All-Star break, including 79 strikeouts. One can say those numbers came in a pitcher friendly Southern League, but he out-performed guys like Patrick Corbin (ARI), Trevor Bauer (ARI), Tyler Skaggs (ARI), Tyler Thornburg (MIL) and Nate Eovaldi (MIA) over that stretch.

Kyle Hunter replaces Hultzen on the Peoria Javelinas roster and is a left-handed pitcher to keep a close eye on. Hunter was Seattle’s 31^st round pick in the 2011 draft out of Kansas St. and had a breakout season in 2013. In three professional seasons he is 11-8 with a 2.28 ERA in 101 games and five starts. He was arguably the most consistent pitcher on Jackson’s staff this past year going 3-0 with a 1.40 ERA in 34 games and four starts. He commands four pitches for strikes including an impressive two seamer. Scouts rave about his stuff and could potentially be a starter. Hunter joins 2013 Generals pitchers Carson Smith and Dominic Leone on the Javelinas roster.

Jackson manager Jim Pankovits will lead Peoria and he told me the team’s first workout will be Thursday.

Generals to host “Haunted Stadium”

Beginning October 18^th, every Friday and Saturday night leading up to Halloween the ballpark in Jackson will be a “Haunted Stadium”.

“It’s not necessarily going to be little kid friendly,” Generals Assistant Promotions Manager told me. “It’s going to be a really scary haunted ballpark.”

The Generals are partnering with North Side High School in Jackson and funds will go toward their athletics and ROTC programs. Many of the volunteers will be from North Side. Gates will open at 7 p.m. and close I’m told “when everyone is scared”.

The path will take you through the suites, clubhouse and around the outside of the outfield wall. It’s creepy enough just walking into those places in the dark anyway, much less when something is going to be jumping out at you.

Admission will be $12 for adults and $10 for students. For more info you can call the ballpark at 988-5299.

-CH-

After 16 years, the Ballpark in Jackson is getting a much needed face lift to the playing surface. As soon as the home schedule ended on August 27, work began to replace and improve the drainage and irrigation systems. During the past few days, the final phase of laying sod has begun. Take a look at the time lapse of pictures and see how the surface is coming together.

On August 19, in Mobile, Julio Morban gave everyone a scare when he broke his right fibula sliding into second base. The scene was reminiscent of Carlos Triunfel’s broken leg back in 2009 in Montgomery. But, for Morban, who I talked too on Wednesday, things are going well in his rehab.

“I’m doing very good so far, I’m rehabbing in (Arizona), and my leg is healing pretty fast.”

Morban batted.295/.362/.468 with 20 doubles, 5 triples, 7 home runs and 44 RBIs in 86 games for the Generals in 2013. Hit batted .315/.381/.519 against right-handers and .241/.310/.329 against left-hadners. When he was healthy, Morban was one of the top offensive players in the Southern League, but due to his total number of plate appearances, he did not qualify for the league leaders.

His best month was undoubtedly the month of May when he batted .349/.391/.523 in 22 games.

Remember this? On March 15, the day Morban was sent down to minor league camp he hit two home runs against the Angels during Seattle’s 8-5 win. His first homer came off of Tommy Hanson and the second came against Billy Buckner. Jeremy Bonderman earned the win that day for the Mariners.

Game #135: Jackson Generals (33-35, 62-72) at Huntsville Stars  (29-40, 58-79)
Streak: Lost 2
Site: Joe Davis Stadium – Huntsville, Alabama
Time: 1:03 p.m. (CT)
Pitching Match-up: LHP Cam Hobson (1-1, 2.25) vs. RHP Brooks Hall (2-4, 4.37)
Radio: 96.5 ESPN, Pregame Show (12:48) TuneIn Radio, GAMEDAY AUDIO
Online TV: MiLB.tv
Live Stats: Live pitch-by-pitch coverage will be available on MILB GAMEDAY
Archived Generals Interviews: Generals YouTube
Generals Blog: Inside the Jackson Generals
Social Media: Twitter / Facebook

Generals Roster | 2013 Regular Season Statistics | SL Standings | SL Leaders | Generals Promotions |  MLB Game Notes | Mariners Roster | MLB Standings

TODAY’S GAME: the Generals conclude the 2013 season with the rubber match of the 5-game road series with the Huntsville Stars (2-2)…this season Jackson is 9-8 against the Stars and 5-4 at Hank Aaron Stadium…the Generals are 7-8 in day games this season and are 7-6 in rubber games of a series.

GENERALS RECAP: The Generals dropped their 2nd straight game to the Huntsville Stars, only collecting 4 hits in the 7-0 shutout loss. The pitch count got high early for Trevor Miller (L, 3-2, 4.73), who could not make it past the fourth inning. The right-hander surrendered only six hits, but they were partnered with six earned runs. Miller struck out five, but walked three with his 96 pitches. The Jackson bats were unable to help Miller through his struggles. Ariel Pena was sharp through five frames. Pena allowed only two hits and complimented it with six strikeouts. Chris Taylor (2-4) and Jabari Blash (1-3) led the way for the Generals on offense.

NEWS & NOTES: 47 of 134 games have been 1-run games (20-27) which is the T-1st in the Southern League…68 of 134 games have been decided by 2-or-fewer runs (26-42) and 17 have been extra-inning games (5-12)…In games decided by 3+ runs the Generals are 33-28.

• WINNING AUGUST: The Generals finished up the month of August with a 16-15 record, which was the first month with a winning record during the 2013 season. Jackson batted .255 with 21 home runs, 117 runs, 40 stolen bases and 3.56 pitching ERA.

• BLASH-T OFF IN DOUBLE-A: OF Jabari Blash has hit safely in 19 of 27 games since being promoted to Jackson, batting .319 (30×94) with 13 runs scored, 3 doubles, 9 home runs, 21 RBI and 19 walks. Blash homered twice in the 4th inning on Friday and has 25 home runs this season leading all of Mariners Minor Leaguers. His 5 RBIs during the 4th inning was the most in a single inning in franchise history.

• NO DOG DAYS FOR TAYLOR: INF Chris Taylor finished up the month of August batting .333 (39×117) with 22 runs scored, 5 doubles, 1 triple, 8 RBI, 18 walks and 10 stolen bases in 31 games in August.

• BLACK JACK IS BACK: INF Jack Marder has hit safely in 7 of 10 games batting .324 (11×34) with 3 runs, 3 doubles, 1 home run, 2 RBI and a .410 on-base percentage.

• 3-HOMER GAME FOR PROSCIA: INF Steven Proscia hit 3 solo home runs on Aug. 26 vs. Chattanooga. It was his 8th career multi-home run game and 2nd this season (last: 2, 6/23 vs. Mobile w/Jackson). It also marks his 3rd career 3-home run game (also: 4/19/12 vs. Inland Empire and 7/14/12 vs. Stockton w/High Desert). He is 1 of 24 minor league players to hit at least 3 home runs this season, but the first Mariners farmhand.

• THE SEATTLE GENERALS: Taijuan Walker and Abraham Almonte became the 9th and 10th different 2012 General to make their MLB debut this season for the Mariners last night…they joined Mike Zunino, Jesus Sucre, Brandon Bantz, Brad Miller, Nick Franklin, Yoervis Medina, Brandon Maurer and Bobby LaFromboise… Seattle had 8 MLB debuts in 2012, and 12 during the 2011 season.

• GENERALS WELL REPRESENTED IN AFL: There are 3 current Generals headed to play for the Peoria Javelinas in the prestegious Arizona Fall League. Infielder Chris Taylor and relievers Carson Smith and Dominic Leone will represent Jackson along with former Generals Danny Hultzen, Brandon Maurer, Stefen Romero and High Desert infielder Patrick Kivlehan. The squad will be managed by Jackson’s Jim Pankovits.

• BLASH NAMED SL HITTER OF THE WEEK: OF Jabari Blash was named Southern League Player of the Week, for Aug. 19-25. In 9 games last week, Blash led the Southern Leauge in average (.500/12×24), on-base percentage (1.526) and walks (14). Overall he hit .500 (12×24) with 4 runs scored, 2 doubles, 2 home runs, 6 RBI, 14 walks. Blash was promoted to AA Jackson from A High Desert on Aug. 2. In 22 game, he is batting .315 (23×73) with 9 runs scored, 3 doubles, 6 home runs, 12 RBI and 18 walks.

• CLOSING TIME: RH Carson Smith has allowed only 1 earned run over his last 27.2 innings (0.33 ERA), including 15.2 consecutive scoreless innings (since July 23). After allowing 5 runs over his first 6 appearances of the season, Smith has allowed only 5 earned runs over his last 37 relief appearances. During this stretch he is 0-1 with 11 saves and a 1.03 ERA (5 ER, 43.2 IP). Since April 22, Smith has lowered his ERA from 8.44 to 1.84. Smith has struck out at least 1 batter in 38 of 43 games (70 strikeouts).

• THE RELIEVING MA-SCHEEN: RH Stephen Kohlscheen has allowed only 3 earned runs over his last 33.0 innings (0.82 ERA). During this 19-game stretch (since June 26), he is 5-0 with 1 save.

• WE GOTCHA!! Jackson catchers lead the SL catching 51.5% of base stealers (68 CS, 132 Att). The next closest is Pensacola which is throwing out 34.8% of base stealers.

Game #134: Jackson Generals (33-34, 62-71) at Huntsville Stars  (28-40, 57-79)
Streak: Lost 1
Site: Joe Davis Stadium – Huntsville, Alabama
Time: 4:03 p.m. (CT)
Pitching Match-up: RHP Trevor Miller (3-1, 4.01) vs. RHP Ariel Pena (7-9, 3.87)
Radio: 96.5 ESPN, Pregame Show (6:28) TuneIn Radio, GAMEDAY AUDIO
Online TV: MiLB.tv
Live Stats: Live pitch-by-pitch coverage will be available on MILB GAMEDAY
Archived Generals Interviews: Generals YouTube
Generals Blog: Inside the Jackson Generals
Social Media: Twitter / Facebook

Generals Roster | 2013 Regular Season Statistics | SL Standings | SL Leaders | Generals Promotions |  MLB Game Notes | Mariners Roster | MLB Standings

TODAY’S GAME: the Generals continue their final series of the season tonight with the game #4 of a 5-game road series with the Huntsville Stars (2-1)…this season Jackson is 9-7 against the Stars and 5-3 at Hank Aaron Stadium…this is the first start time before 5:00 p.m. for Jackson since a 4:00 p.m. start on July 7, at Pensacola.

GENERALS RECAP: The Generals scored 2 runs in the 6th inning and 1 in the 9th inning, but it wasn’t enough as Jackson lost to Huntsville 3-5 on Saturday. DH Ramon Morla (2×4, 2B, 2 RBI) led the team with 2 hits, while 3B Gabriel Noriega (1×4, R), SS Chris Taylor (1×3, BB, SB), C John Hicks (1×4, 2B, RBI) and 2B Jack Marder (1×3, R, 2B) each recorded 1 of the Generals 6 hits. Starter Anthony Fernandez (6.0,7,5,5,3,3,HR) recorded his 8th loss of the season, allowing 5 runs on 7 hits in 6.0 innings. RH Stephen Kohlscheen (1.0,1,0,0,1,2) and RH Kevin McCoy (1.0,1,0,0,2,1) combined to hold the Stars scoreless over the final 2.0 innings in relief.

NEWS & NOTES: 47 of 133 games have been 1-run games (20-27) which is the T-1st in the Southern League…68 of 133 games have been decided by 2-or-fewer runs (26-42) and 17 have been extra-inning games (5-12)…In games decided by 3+ runs the Generals are 33-27.

• BLASH-T OFF IN DOUBLE-A: OF Jabari Blash has hit safely in 18 of 26 games since being promoted to Jackson, batting .319 (29×91) with 13 runs scored, 3 doubles, 9 home runs, 21 RBI and 19 walks. Blash homered twice in the 4th inning on Friday and has 25 home runs this season leading all of Mariners Minor Leaguers. His 5 RBIs during the 4th inning was the most in a single inning in franchise history.

• NO DOG DAYS FOR TAYLOR: INF Chris Taylor finished up the month of August batting .333 (39×117) with 22 runs scored, 5 doubles, 1 triple, 8 RBI, 18 walks and 10 stolen bases in 31 games in August.

• BLACK JACK IS BACK: INF Jack Marder currently has a 5-game hitting streak, batting .500 (9×18) with 2 runs scored, 1 double, 1 RBI, 2 BB and 1 stolen base. In his last 10 games he is batting .343 with 3 runs, 3 doubles, 1 home run, 2 RBIs and 3 walks.

• 3-HOMER GAME FOR PROSCIA: INF Steven Proscia hit 3 solo home runs on Aug. 26 vs. Chattanooga. It was his 8th career multi-home run game and 2nd this season (last: 2, 6/23 vs. Mobile w/Jackson). It also marks his 3rd career 3-home run game (also: 4/19/12 vs. Inland Empire and 7/14/12 vs. Stockton w/High Desert). He is 1 of 24 minor league players to hit at least 3 home runs this season, but the first Mariners farmhand.

• THE SEATTLE GENERALS: Taijuan Walker and Abraham Almonte became the 9th and 10th different 2012 General to make their MLB debut this season for the Mariners last night…they joined Mike Zunino, Jesus Sucre, Brandon Bantz, Brad Miller, Nick Franklin, Yoervis Medina, Brandon Maurer and Bobby LaFromboise… Seattle had 8 MLB debuts in 2012, and 12 during the 2011 season.

• WALKER WINS AND MAKES HISTORY IN MLB DEBUT FRIDAY: Taijuan Walker became the youngest Mariners starting pitcher to win his MLB debut last night at 21.017 years of age…Walker is just the 11th pitcher in Mariners history to win his starting debut; he is just the second (joining Pat Rice, 5/18/91 @NYY) to not allow an earned run AND record a win…Erik Hanson (9/5/88 @MIN) is the only other starter to allow 0 ER in his debut, but he lost 2-0.

• GENERALS WELL REPRESENTED IN AFL: There are 3 current Generals headed to play for the Peoria Javelinas in the prestegious Arizona Fall League. Infielder Chris Taylor and relievers Carson Smith and Dominic Leone will represent Jackson along with former Generals Danny Hultzen, Brandon Maurer, Stefen Romero and High Desert infielder Patrick Kivlehan. The squad will be managed by Jackson’s Jim Pankovits.

• BLASH NAMED SL HITTER OF THE WEEK: OF Jabari Blash was named Southern League Player of the Week, for Aug. 19-25. In 9 games last week, Blash led the Southern Leauge in average (.500/12×24), on-base percentage (1.526) and walks (14). Overall he hit .500 (12×24) with 4 runs scored, 2 doubles, 2 home runs, 6 RBI, 14 walks. Blash was promoted to AA Jackson from A High Desert on Aug. 2. In 22 game, he is batting .315 (23×73) with 9 runs scored, 3 doubles, 6 home runs, 12 RBI and 18 walks.

• CLOSING TIME: RH Carson Smith has allowed only 1 earned run over his last 27.2 innings (0.33 ERA), including 15.2 consecutive scoreless innings (since July 23). After allowing 5 runs over his first 6 appearances of the season, Smith has allowed only 5 earned runs over his last 37 relief appearances. During this stretch he is 0-1 with 11 saves and a 1.03 ERA (5 ER, 43.2 IP). Since April 22, Smith has lowered his ERA from 8.44 to 1.84. Smith has struck out at least 1 batter in 38 of 43 games (70 strikeouts).

• THE RELIEVING MA-SCHEEN: RH Stephen Kohlscheen has allowed only 3 earned runs over his last 33.0 innings (0.82 ERA). During this 19-game stretch (since June 26), he is 5-0 with 1 save.

Game #133: Jackson Generals (33-33, 62-70) at Huntsville Stars  (27-40, 56-79)
Streak: Won 5
Site: Joe Davis Stadium – Huntsville, Alabama
Time: 6:43 p.m. (CT)
Pitching Match-up: LHP Anthony Fernandez (9-7, 4.26) vs. RHP Taylor Jungmann (9-10, 4.38)
Radio: 96.5 ESPN, Pregame Show (6:28) TuneIn Radio, GAMEDAY AUDIO
Online TV: MiLB.tv
Live Stats: Live pitch-by-pitch coverage will be available on MILB GAMEDAY
Archived Generals Interviews: Generals YouTube
Generals Blog: Inside the Jackson Generals
Social Media: Twitter / Facebook

Lineup

Generals Roster | 2013 Regular Season Statistics | SL Standings | SL Leaders | Generals Promotions |  MLB Game Notes | Mariners Roster | MLB Standings

TODAY’S GAME: the Generals, riding a season-best 5-game winning streak continue their final series of the season tonight with the game #3 of a 5-game road series with the Huntsville Stars (2-0)…this season Jackson is 9-6 against the Stars and 5-2 at Hank Aaron Stadium…the Generals also close out the month of August tonight and are 16-14 during the month.

GENERALS RECAP: RF Jabari Blash hit 2 home runs and drove in 5 runs as part of an 8-run 4th inning as Jackson defeated Huntsville 8-5 on Friday night. Blash (2×4, 2 R, 2 HR, 5 RBI) recorded his 3rd multi-home run game of the season (also: 8/15 vs. Montgomery w/JAC & 4/16 vs. Lancaster w/HD) while recording his 24th and 25th home run in 2013 (9 with Jackson). 2B Jack Marder (3×4, R, 2B) recorded the team’s only other multi-hit game, while LF Leon Landry (1×4, R, RBI), C John Hicks (1×4, BB), 3B Ramon Morla (1×5), DH Steven Proscia (1×3, R, BB) and CF Denny Almonte (1×3, R, 2B, RBI, BB) each recorded 1 of the Generals 10 hits. Starter Jimmy Gillheeney (6.1,5,4,3,1,4) recorded his 7th win with Jackson (9th overall), allowing 4 runs (3 ER) on 5 hits in 6.1 innings. LH Kyle Hunter (0.2,1,0,0,0,0) and RH Dominic Leone (2.0,2,1,1,1,0,HR) combined to allow 1 run over the final 2.2 innings in relief.

NEWS & NOTES: 47 of 132 games have been 1-run games (20-27) which is the T-1st in the Southern League…67 of 132 games have been decided by 2-or-fewer runs (26-41) and 17 have been extra-inning games (5-12)…In games decided by 3+ runs the Generals are 33-27.

• BLASH-T OFF IN DOUBLE-A: OF Jabari Blash has hit safely in 18 of 25 games since being promoted to Jackson, batting .326 (29×89) with 13 runs scored, 3 doubles, 9 home runs, 21 RBI and 19 walks. Blash homered twice in the 4th inning on Friday and has 25 home runs this season leading all of Mariners Minor Leaguers. His 5 RBIs during the 4th inning was the most in a single inning in franchise history.

• NO DOG DAYS FOR TAYLOR: INF Chris Taylor is batting .333 (38×114) with 22 runs scored, 5 doubles, 1 triple, 8 RBI, 17 walks and 10 stolen bases in 30 games in August.

• THE SEATTLE GENERALS: Taijuan Walker and Abraham Almonte became the 9th and 10th different 2012 General to make their MLB debut this season for the Mariners last night…they joined Mike Zunino, Jesus Sucre, Brandon Bantz, Brad Miller, Nick Franklin, Yoervis Medina, Brandon Maurer and Bobby LaFromboise… Seattle had 8 MLB debuts in 2012, and 12 during the 2011 season.

• WALKER WINS AND MAKES HISTORY IN MLB DEBUT FRIDAY: Taijuan Walker became the youngest Mariners starting pitcher to win his MLB debut last night at 21.017 years of age…Walker is just the 11th pitcher in Mariners history to win his starting debut; he is just the second (joining Pat Rice, 5/18/91 @NYY) to not allow an earned run AND record a win…Erik Hanson (9/5/88 @MIN) is the only other starter to allow 0 ER in his debut, but he lost 2-0.

• BLACK JACK IS BACK: INF Jack Marder currently has a 4-game hit streak, batting (8×15) with 1 run scored, 1 double, 1 RBI, 2 BB and 1 stolen base.

• GENERALS WELL REPRESENTED IN AFL: There are 3 current Generals headed to play for the Peoria Javelinas in the prestegious Arizona Fall League. Infielder Chris Taylor and relievers Carson Smith and Dominic Leone will represent Jackson along with former Generals Danny Hultzen, Brandon Maurer, Stefen Romero and High Desert infielder Patrick Kivlehan. The squad will be managed by Jackson’s Jim Pankovits.

• BLASH NAMED SL HITTER OF THE WEEK: OF Jabari Blash was named Southern League Player of the Week, for Aug. 19-25. In 9 games last week, Blash led the Southern Leauge in average (.500/12×24), on-base percentage (1.526) and walks (14). Overall he hit .500 (12×24) with 4 runs scored, 2 doubles, 2 home runs, 6 RBI, 14 walks. Blash was promoted to AA Jackson from A High Desert on Aug. 2. In 22 game, he is batting .315 (23×73) with 9 runs scored, 3 doubles, 6 home runs, 12 RBI and 18 walks.

• CLOSING TIME: RH Carson Smith has allowed only 1 earned run over his last 27.2 innings (0.33 ERA), including 15.2 consecutive scoreless innings (since July 23). After allowing 5 runs over his first 6 appearances of the season, Smith has allowed only 5 earned runs over his last 37 relief appearances. During this stretch he is 0-1 with 11 saves and a 1.03 ERA (5 ER, 43.2 IP). Since April 22, Smith has lowered his ERA from 8.44 to 1.84. Smith has struck out at least 1 batter in 38 of 43 games (70 strikeouts).

• THE RELIEVING MA-SCHEEN: RH Stephen Kohlscheen has allowed only 3 earned runs over his last 30.2 innings (0.88 ERA). During this 17-game stretch (since June 26), he is 5-0 with 1 save while lowering his season ERA from 3.60 to 2.33.

• WE GOTCHA!! Jackson catchers lead the SL catching 50.8% of base stealers (66 CS, 130 Att). The next closest is Pensacola which is throwing out 35.0% of base stealers.