Lou Marson - Olympian

Video from NBColympics.com

Berry Named Phillies Minor League Player of the Month

Thresher centerfielder Quintin Berry was recognized by the Philadelphia Phillies as the club’s minor league player of the month of July, the team announced this week. In July the left-hander batted .367 while driving in 15 runs and scoring 14. His 40 hits and 13 stolen bases led the entire Philadelphia farm system.

The San Diego native began what has turned into a 24-game hitting streak by recording a hit in his last 16 games of the month. He raised his season batting average nearly 40 points over the span of the month from .233 to .270.

In addition to 15 multi-hit games, Berry also recorded three multi-steal games including two games in which he swiped three bags.

The 2007 winner of the Paul Owens Award – given each year to the player deemed the best in the Philadelphia Phillies minor league system – was selected by the Phillies in the fifth round of the June 2006 draft. He is in his third professional season.

Monday, August 11

Just a reminder that on Monday, August 11 the Threshers and Lakeland Flying Tigers will complete a suspended game from July 2. The game is in the bottom of the fourth inning with the Threshers leading 5-1.

The game will be completed as a nine-inning game.

A seven-inning second game will begin after a 20-minute intermission.

Doubleheader Updates...

Game Two

~Quintin Berry advanced to second after reaching on a walk in the fifth, but he advanced on a wild pitch.

~The Threshers have trailed three times... coming back to tie the game at 1 and 2... but they're now trailing 5-2 after a two-run homer in the 5th.

~Quintin Berry has just extended his hitting streak to 21 games.

Game One

The Threshers dropped the first game of the doublheader with the Blue Jays tonight (makeup from a game originally scheduled for 6/21) with Darren Byrd picking up the loss. He went the distance (7 innings) giving up just one run (a home run) on eight hits. He walked two while striking out three. A quite solid performance.

The Threshers managed just four hits, one of which was by Quintin Berry, extending his hitting streak to 20 games and his games on-base streak to 35 games.

Updates from Fort Myers...

10:13 Update

Threshers get runners on, including Berry who drew a walk, in the 9th, but can't move them over. 5-4 final in favor of the Miracle... Berry now has three games to break the stolen base record at home.

9:31 Update

Threshers fell behind 5-2, but a pair of runs in the seventh brings Clearwater within one. Berry is 3-4 on the night and scored one of the two in the seventh. Still no stolen bases though...

8:36 Update

3-2 Miracle lead in the 5th... Berry got on in the 5th with another hit, but was stranded at 1st.

7:36 Update

Scoreless through 2... the Threshers have struck out four consecutive times.

Original Update

Quintin Berry extended his hitting streak to 18 games with a single in the first, tying Gus Milner for the longest in the league this season. His consecutive games on-base streak extends to an impressive 33. However, he was picked off.

Update from last night... they changed the error in the 11th from a throwing error on Portes to a missed catch error by Woodard.

BERRY TIES RECORD

Quintin Berry has just tied the Clearwater record for steals in a season... he has 40...

Ramblings...

...A little late with this, but Andrew Carpenter was promoted to Reading earlier this week...

...Brian Schlitter was activated from the DL this week, as well...

...Quintin Berry remains two steals away from breaking the club record for stolen bases in a season...

...Berry's 39 steals are the most in the Phillies organization this season...

...JA Happ, who leads the International League with 127 strikeouts, has been sent to Philly...

...Clay Harris picked up his 4th home run with Reading, a ninth-inning, two-run blast in a win over New Hampshire...

...Greg Golson and Brad Harman had a pair of homers last week at Reading...

...Matt Spencer is hitting .436 since his trade to the Oakland organization, while Adrian Cardenas is hitting .286 with a homer...

Phinley Doll Has Arrived at Diamond Outfitters!

The Threshers are pleased to announce a new product at Diamond Outfitters... a fantastic, cuddly Phinley doll!

Below (click to make it bigger) is Phinley with... Phinley!



Phinley (the smaller one) retails for just $15 and can be purchased when you next visit the shop!

PITCH FOR PINK - AUGUST 8, 2008

Below you will find information about ticket packages that are available for businesses, ticket packages available for individuals, and a donor form for those who would like to make a donation to this fantastic night that supports such a great cause. Also included is a press release about the evening. Click on the images to enlarge them.

This year marks the third annual Pitch For Pink Night. All proceeds benefit the Susan Cheek Needler Breast Center at Morton Plant Hospital and 100% of the money raised will remain in the local community.

If you need more information, please contact awarner@threshersbaseball.com or call Amanda at 727-712-4405.

Those Who Have Moved Up...

The Reading (AA) roster has quite a few players on it who have played with Clearwater this season... here's a brief update on how they've been doing:

Clay Harris started off slowly after his call to the R-Phils earlier this month but has certainly been coming on strong as of late. In 11 games with the team, the LSU product has eleven three home runs. That, combined with his .324 average, has him OPSing at 1.041. Not too bad...

Jake Blalock is hitting .283 with the Phillies, including a pair of 3-5 performances late in June.

We'll update the pitchers later on...

THIEFS!

The Threshers stole... wait for it... nine bases tonight. Five of the nine came in one inning.

From the boxscore...

SB: Watson 2 (2, 2nd base off West/Purdom, 2nd base off West/Purdom), Berry 3 (34, 2nd base off West/Purdom, 3rd base off West/Purdom, 3rd base off West/Purdom), Hernandez, F 2 (4, 2nd base off West/Purdom, 3rd base off West/Purdom), Taylor (2, 2nd base off West/Purdom), Gosewisch (2, 2nd base off Miller, Ju/Purdom).

CS: Taylor (2, 3rd base by West/Purdom).


Meat Loaf may have said 2 out of 3 ain't bad... I'm saying 9 out of 10 ain't too shabby either.

More moves...

What does Dorothy say in the Wizard of Oz, "my, how people come and go so quickly here"... or something like that.

7/20
Brett Myers rejoined Philadelphia

7/21
Harold Garcia sent to GCL Phillies.
Doug Morales sent to Williamsport.
Rob Watson signed as a minor league free agent.
Kevin Mahar signed as a minor league free agent.

Find out more about Watson and Mahar by clicking here.

Catching Up...

Here are all of your roster moves to catch you up on...

Harold Garcia added from the GCL Phillies.
Brett Myers added from Reading.
Adrian Cardenas & Matt Spencer traded to Oakland.
Doug Morales added from Williamsport.

This is Garcia's fourth professional year, spending the last three with the Venezuela Summer League Phillies. In 19 games this season with the Gulf Coast Phillies, Garcia was hitting .258. The Maracibo, VZ native had 17 hits, four of which were triples.

Morales is in his sixth professional season. He spent 13 games with Clearwater in 2006 before being sent to Lakewood and Batavia. He spent all of last season with Lakewood. In nine games at Williamsport, Morales was hitting just .192 with just five hits; he already has three in two games with the Threshers.

Cardenas and Spencer joined the Stockton Ports on Saturday. In two games, Cardenas is 2-9 with a run scored while Spencer, who has been moved to 1B defensively, is 4-8 with a pair of runs.

Brett Myers Joins Threshers

RHP Brett Myers was added from Reading (AA) today. We'll have a complete roster update as soon as possible. Things have been a little crazy since the trade yesterday.

More on Trade...

The A's are excited about what they're getting...

Press conference link is available at the top of this page from mlb.com.

Stay tuned for more reaction...

(Somewhat) Breaking News: Two Traded

If you were wondering like I was why Adrian Cardenas and Matt Spencer were not in the lineup for the first game of the DH at Brevard County tonight, one need only look to mlb.com for the answer. The Phillies have acquired P Joe Blanton from Oakland for INF Adrian Cardenas and OF Matt Spencer of the Threshers and former Thresher P Josh Outman.

Former Threshers Named to US Olympic Team

Jason Donald and Lou Marson will represent America at the 2008 Summer Olympic Games next month in Beijing, China.

Here are a couple of quotes from the team's manager, Davey Jonhson about the two...

On selecting Jason Donald for the Olympic team:
"He's a great-looking shortstop. Great hands, good arm and his offensive arms are outstanding. I like his makeup. He was way up on our list to begin with and once I got the chance to get to know him a little bit, I liked him even better."

On selecting Lou Marson for the Olympic team:
"He really impressed me during (the Futures Game). He caught the first three innings. We don't give the signs to the catcher. He told (pitcher) Brett Anderson to throw over to first and he picked (a runner off). His numbers are outstanding for a catcher, great offensive catcher, and I got reports that said everything about him is good."


The entire roster can be found here.

Futures Game, Harris, and more...

The 2008 Futures Game is being played right now at Yankee Stadium. Lou Marson and Jason Donald both started for the US team, though Marson has been lifted already. The game is being played on espn2.

The Reading Eagle has a good article on Clay Harris. Thanks to Kevin for the link which you can access by clicking here.

The Threshers are looking to end their five-game skid today here at Bright House Field. It's Wet-n-Wacky Day, so come dressed accordingly!

Game Day - July 7 vs Palm Beach

TONIGHT'S GAME VS THE PALM BEACH CARDINALS HAS BEEN POSTPONED AND WILL BE MADE UP AS PART OF A DOUBLEHEADER THAT WILL BEGIN AT 5:00 PM TOMORROW, JULY 8.

Two Sent to Reading (AA)

Sorry about the time between the last update and now. As you know if you were at the game, Thursday night was a crazy (but amazingly awesome) night. Many thanks to the 9,090 of you who came out to Bright House Field. Congratulations, you were part of a record crowd!

Speaking of Thursday, P Edgar Garcia was promoted to Reading during the day. He joined Tyson Brummett, Sam Walls, and Brett Harker. He made his AA debut on Sunday, picking up a loss. He gave up five hits in his six innings of work while allowing two runs. He struck out four.

Garcia will be joined by INF Clay Harris. Harris, who hit his eighth homer of the season over the weekend at Dunedin, has been on fire recently. raising his batting average from a season low of .263 on June 17 to .351 through Saturday night.

Honors Pile Up for Harris

Thresher INF Clay Harris, already named last week's FSL Player of the Week, was announced as the Phillies Minor League Player of the Week for the same period. Here is the official announcment from the Phillies...

**Player: 1B Clay Harris, Clearwater. Batted .545 for 7 games (12-22) with 4 HR, 12 RBI. He had his first multi-home run game on Saturday, hitting 3 and driving in 6 in 11-3 romp at the St. Lucie Mets. In his 4th at-bat, he was hit by a pitch, setting off a bench-clearing incident. In his 5th at-bat, he was again hit without any other incidents. Last 10 games: .581, 4 HR, 16 RBI. For the season: .350 in 39 games, 7 HR, 31 RBI. The 25-year-old right-handed hitter was a 9th-round selection in 2005 out of LSU.

First Round Choice Signs

From the Phillies...

"Shortstop Anthony Hewitt, the Phillies’ first-round selection last month, has agreed to terms and will report to Clearwater, Fla., later this week, Director of Scouting Marti Wolever announced today.

Hewitt, 19, received a bonus of $1,380,000 plus eight semesters under a college scholarship program.

The Phillies have signed 27 of the 53 players they selected, including the first five."

Clay Harris - FSL POTW

The Florida State League announced Threshers infielder Clay Harris as its Player of the Week for the period June 23-29, 2008.

During the period, the Slidel, La. native produced 12 hits in 22 at-bats for a .545 average. Four of Harris’ hits were home runs, including three in consecutive at-bats on June 29 against St. Lucie. Harris drove in 12 RBI during the week.
A Louisiana State University product, Harris was taken in the 9th round of the 2005 draft by the Philadelphia Phillies. For the season he his hitting .350 with a team-leading seven home runs, and his 31 RBI place him fourth on the team.

2008 Futures Game - Update

Antonio Bastardo was also named to the World team, but due to injury he will not actually play.

Other players previously announced as taking part in the game are catcher Lou Marson, infielder Jason Donald, and outfielder Greg Golson who will play for the U.S. team and right-handed pitcher Carlos Carrasco who will play on the World team.

All are former Threshers.

Tempers Flare at St. Lucie

Clay Harris homered in his first three at-bats Saturday night, and the St. Lucie Mets apparently didn't like it. After driving in five runs on three long balls, Harris was plunked by Casey Hoorelbeke in the seventh inning. Threshers starter Edgar Garcia responded by hitting the first batter he faced in the bottom half of the inning, earning him an ejection to go along with his eighth win of the season. Hoorelbeke seemingly didn't care that the bases were loaded when Harris batted in the eighth inning, hitting him with another pitch to allow Harris to pick up his sixth RBI of the evening. Hoorelbeke was ejected. The bean balls didn't stop there, however, as St. Lucie's German Marte was tossed in the 9th for hitting Tuffy Gosewisch.

Certainly an eventful night on the other coast as the Threshers improved to 3-6 for the second half.

2008 Futures Game

The Phillies organization will be well-represented at the 2008 Futures Game, placing four players on the roster. All are former Threshers.

Catcher Lou Marson, infielder Jason Donald, and outfielder Greg Golson will play for the U.S. team, while right-handed pitcher Carlos Carrasco will play on the World team.

The 2008 Futures Game will be played as part of the All-Star festivities at Yankee Stadium in New York next month.

Let's Play Two

It's that time of the year, huh?

Tonight's game at St. Lucie was postponed due to rain. The two teams will attempt to play a doubleheader tomorrow with the first game starting at 5:00 PM.

And who says it's too early to scoreboard watch? Dunedin lost tonight 8-4 to Jupiter, so the Threshers didn't fall back any further tonight. In fact, all of the West Divisions that were able to play tonight lost (Sarasota 6-1 to Vero, Fort Myers 3-1 to Brevard). Hopefully the good guys can put together a nice stretch here pretty soon and quickly get back into the thick of things.

Phillies Minor League Players of the Week

From Larry Shenk:

**Pitcher: RHP Justin De Fratus, Williamsport. 0-0 for 1st start in short-season ball, 6 innings, 4 hits, 2 walks, 6 strikeouts, tagged for an unearned run in the 5th inning. Threw 61 fast balls, 17 sliders and 17 changes. The 20-year-old was an 11th-round selection a year ago out of Ventura (CA) College. Broke in pro ball last summer at Gulf Coast League, 2-3, for 8 starts.

**Player: SS Jason Donald, Reading. In 8 games, batted .400 with 12 hits (2 doubles, 2 homers), 6 RBI and 8 runs scored. Hitting .378 in June, 4 homers, 13 RBI. For the season, .304-8-36. The 23-year-old was selected in the 3rd round in 2006 out of the University of Arizona.

6/26 Roster Moves

A whole slew of moves to tell you about today. Firstly, Kris Benson concluded his rehab stint with the Threshers and was moved to Lehigh Valley (AAA).

Brett Harker, with his sparkling 1.43 ERA, was promoted to Reading (AA).

Alex Concepcion was promoted from Williamsport to Clearwater.

Carlos Monasterios was activated from the DL.

Finally, Orlando Guevara was added from Reading.

Game Day - Threshers vs Vero Beach (Noon)

3:00 Update - Threshers 2, Vero Beach 5 (FINAL)

Story on the main site by clicking here.

Original Post

Special noon o'clock (yes, that's right, noon o'clock) start here at Bright House Field today.

It's a toasty 92 under partly cloudy skies with a wind from right to left at 5 MPH.

Lineups:


Vero Beach

Jennings
Baldelli
Suarez
Fields
Royster
Groce
Callender
De La Rosa
Lopez

Tiffany


Threshers

Berry
Leon
Cardenas
Milner
Taylor
Harris
Spencer
Gosewisch
Hernandez

Savery

Game Day: Threshers vs Vero Beach (7:00 PM)

It's Phinley's birthday tonight, so I'll be around the park documenting that with still photos. There might be some updates tonight when I get free moments.

Game Day - Threshers vs Vero Beach Devil Rays (7:00 PM)

9:30 Update - Vero Beach 3, Threshers 7 (FINAL)

Full story now on the main site.


Original Post - 1:10 PM EDT

Greetings Thresher fans! Hopefully this new work week is getting off to a great start for all of you.

Speaking of great starts, I was just checking up on Reading (AA affiliate of the Phillies) and saw that Tyson Brummett had a great start for them last Thursday, his first with the club since being called up earlier this month. He threw 8.2 innings, giving up just six hits and three runs while striking out five. Sam Walls, another former Thresher, picked up the save in the game, throwing the last out of the contest. Walls has picked up three saves in four opportuties.

Just a little word of protocol from here on out. While I will always strive to keep this blog as up-to-date as possible, sometimes other duties around the park will limit my ability to do that (i.e. pulling tarp). However, in the event of a postponement, it should be posted almost immediately after that decision is made. The official site will have that information, as well.

Game Day - Threshers vs Vero Beach Devil Rays (4:00 PM)

8:03 Update

Clearwater 0 Vero Beach 2 (Final)

4:30 PM Update

The tarp is currently on the field, and we are in a rain delay.

Original Post

It's a bright and sunny, beautiful day at Bright House Field... or is it? We just got done taking the tarp off for the second time today (the staff came in at 10:00 AM this morning to take it off from yesterday, only to have to put it back on about 50 minutes later when a somewhat unexpected downpour hit the area. Hopefully we're done for the day, and we start at 4:00 PM.

The Vero Beach Devil Rays are in town, but they are without David Price and JT Hall who were promoted to Montgomery (AA) last night.

No changes for the Threshers today.

If anything changes with the weather, we'll let you know.

Game Day - Threshers vs Dunedin Blue Jays (6:30 PM)

6:05 PM Update

TONIGHT'S GAME HAS BEEN POSTPONED TO A LATER DATE.

4:40 PM Update

We're getting tons of phone calls into the ticket office here... as of right now, we are still scheduled for first pitch to happen at 6:30 PM. Check here and threshersbaseball.com for the latest updates.

3:15 PM Update

We just put the tarp out on the field which to me is actually a good sign. The field could have been played on at this point, so we're just taking the precaution in the event of additional rain.

There is more rain out in the Gulf, so again, we'll just have to see.


Orginal Post

It's a wet one here at Bright House Field today, but we're still anticipating the game being played at 6:30 PM.

In roster news, Jay Miller was sent to Lakewood today and Herman Demmink was placed on the DL.

Benson Feels Good After Rehab Start with Threshers

From Philly.com...

Benson armed with optimism after Clearwater start

Phinley's 2nd Birthday

Tuesday, June 24 is Phinley's birthday, and it's sure to be a night full of fun at Bright House Field! Phinley has invited a lot of his closest friends to come celebrate with him, and many of them have already called to tell the friendly shark that they're coming!

The RSVP List

Thunderbug (Lightning)
D-Jay (Jays)
RalliGator and Mr, Red (Reds)
Blue (Yankees)
Sluggernaught (Rays)
SideKick (Tiger Schulmmans Karate)
Buddy the Recycling Dolphin (City of Clearwater)
Inflatable Raymond (Rays)
Roi The Koi (Nice Green and Beautiful)


P.S. If anyone has any idea what "Sluggernaught" is, please let me know!

Game Day - Threshers vs Dunedin Blue Jays (7:05 PM)

Big night here at Bright House Field as the second half of the season gets underway. Tons of roster moves were made today, as seen in the post below this one.

Probably won't have updates as frequent and in-depth of the other night as I have to excersise my photography skills some during the game, and Catch 47 is here broadcasting the game tonight, as well.

Roster Additions - 6/19

Kris Benson, Ben Pfinsgraff, Drew Naylor, Herman Demmink, and Michael Taylor were all added to the Clearwater roster today.


RHP Pfinsgraff, RHP Naylor, INF Demmink, and OF Taylor were promoted to the Threshers today from Lakewood (A).

Pfinsgraf, a reliever, had a 3.41 ERA and picked up two saves in five opportunities for the BlueClaws and picked up 37 strikeouts in 37 innings. A Clemson product, Demmink was batting .231 at Lakewood.

Taylor’s impressive .361 batting average and 90 hits were leading the South Atlantic League, and he ranked fifth in RBI with 50. For the season he had drawn 31 walks to also lead the SAL in on-base percentage at .441. Taylor, a fifth-round pick of the Phillies in 2007, was recently named the SAL Player of the Month for May by the Topps Company and Minor League Baseball.

Naylor, a native of Australia, leads the SAL in strikeouts with 97 and also has two complete games while compiling a 5-3 record and a 2.99 ERA. He joined Taylor at the SAL All-Star Game and was named the Most Outstanding Pitcher.

Brummett Named Phillies Pitcher of the Week

Tyson Brummett, just recently promoted to Reading (AA), was named the Phillies Minor League Pitcher of the Week for the week ending June 15. The UCLA product, drafted in the 7th round of the June 2007 draft, won his only start of the week. He struck out seven batters in eight innings while allowing just one run. He won his last two starts with the Threshers before being promoted to Reading earlier this week.

Brummett to Reading

Tyson Brummett was promoted to Reading (AA) today. Brummett started the season at Lakewood (A), going 3-0 there with a 1.95 ERA in six starts. He made his Clearwater debut in early May and went 2-3, posting a 3.59 ERA in eight starts. The right-handed UCLA product had come on strong of late, winning his last two starts including giving up just two hits in his next to last start against St. Lucie.

Game Day - Threshers vs Tampa Yankees (7:00 PM)

Tuesday Update

Instead of leaving the massiveness that are the game night updates up, each day after a home game we're just going to put up links to the previous night's play-by-play from milb.com and the game recap on the main site.

mIlb.com play-by-play

ThreshersBaseball.com Recap


Orginal Post

A couple of roster moves to tell you about on this, the first day after the FSL All-Star Break. Andrew Carpenter has been activated from the DL, and Carlos Leon has been added to the roster.

A look at the radar shows some rain out in the Gulf, so we'll be keeping an eye on that.

Juan Samuel Inducted to Phillies Wall of Fame

Just received word out of Philadelphia this morning that Juan Samuel is going to be the 2008 inductee into the Phillies Wall of Fame. From the team's press release:

"Samuel was the Phillies’ regular second baseman from 1984 through 1988. As a rookie in 1984, he set modern club records for most at-bats in a season (701), most triples (19) and most stolen bases (72). He became the first player in major league history to reach double digits in doubles, triples, home runs and stolen bases in each of his first four seasons.

The 47-year-old Samuel, current third base coach for Baltimore, will be inducted prior to the Friday night, August 8 game against the Pittsburgh Pirates."

Darren Daulton, Lenny Dykstra, John Kruk and Greg Gross were the other former Phillies who were finalists to be this year's inductee.

All-Star Game Weekend - Saturday Night Update

Pictures from the 2008 All-Star Game...
(click for larger image - all pictures by Taylor Flatt)

Edgar Garcia was named the Most Outstanding Pitcher for the 2008 FSL All-Star Game earlier tonight, a perfect topping to a fantastic night for the Threshers representatives on the West Division's team. I'm going to get a story up for the official site and then update this entry with pictures and the like after that.

Updated at 1:00 AM

Well, I actually never got around to the story for the main site. It wouldn't be good without the final score which I actually just didn't write down, and the final hasn't been updated on milb.com. The West did win though, and the Threshers were good. Gus Milner played the entire game in right and went 1-4 with a walk and two runs scored. He also made a great defensive play hustling to a ball that was hit towards the line in right, getting off a nice throw to force the runner to stay at first after he hinted towards making an attempt to stretch it out into a double.

Garcia threw a 1-2-3 second inning, including picking up a strike out for the second out. Brett Harker pitched in the sixth and gave up two quick singles before retiring the next three batters, including two via the punch-out. Matt German entered the game with two outs in the seventh and like Harker was greeted by a hit, but he managed to retire the next batter to end the inning. He remained in the game for one batter in the eighth, making him strike out looking.

All-Star Game Weekend - Saturday Afternoon Update

Good afternoon from a sunny Viera, Florida! Hope all is well back in Clearwater or from wherever you may be reading.




Threshers coaches and players before the All-Star Gala


The gala last night at the hotel was a great time. For dinner the players were all assigned seats scattered throughout the room, and us interns who made the trip had the pleasure of having the company of Ft. Myers right-handed pitcher Jeff Manship and some of his family.



Following dinner, Frank Viola (pitched for the Twins, Mets, Red Sox, Reds and Blue Jays) delivered a nice address to the crowd. After that the party shifted outside to the pool late into the evening. Everyone enjoyed themselves.


This morning a handful of the staff that made its way over for the festivities headed out to Cocoa Beach for a few hours. I personally found it odd that we were going to the beach until someone reminded me it's something we don't really ever get the chance to do in the summer with our busy schedule at Bright House Field.


While we were relaxing on the beach, the players were participating in an autograph session, and I believe they're all over at Space Coast Stadium now having team pictures and the like taken.


We'll be heading over to the stadium ourselves in a couple hours. Check back here because hopefully we'll have a lot more pictures and the like from tonight's festivities.

All-Star Game Weekend - Friday Afternoon Update

Welcome to Viera, Florida! The Threshers players and quite a few of the front office staff departed from Bright House Field this morning at just after 11:00 AM and arrived here in Viera this afternoon at around 2:30 PM here at the Holiday Inn.

Just to give you a little bit of a behind the scenes look, when we arrived in our rooms, we were greeted by a bag with the passes that we'll need for all the various events this weekend along with our ticket for tomorrow night's game.

There is an event here at the hotel in about an hour, a social hour of sorts for everyone. It should be a fun time. If there is anything of much substance to add tonight, we'll update later on.

Welcome back!

After a couple months off, we're pleased to bring back the Inside the Clearwater Threshers blog!

We're just going to jump right back into things with exciting updates from this weekend's Florida State League All-Star Game in Brevard County, so look forward to that! The Threshers will be represented by Edgar Garcia, Matt German, Brett Harker, and Gus Milner along with the coaching staff who will lead the West Division's team.

On most home game nights, we'll be updating the blog live throughout the game with instant updates. It's the next best thing to radio, so check frequently starting Monday night as the Threshers host the Tampa Yankees at 7:00 PM EST. If there is ever a game during which we have to cover other responsibilties in the park, we'll try and post ahead of time to let everyone know there won't be updates that night.

Tell all of your friends that we're back! We know we have some mighty big shoes to fill (thanks, Kevin!), but we're going to try our best.

Thanks for stopping by, and we'll talk to you soon!

'Kevin in the Ticket Office' Says Goodbye

Just wanted to let all of our readers and commentors know that this will be my last post as 'Kevin in the Ticket Office'.

As most of you know, this blog has been my baby. I created it, I designed it, and I've written and edited it.

New folks in the Ticket Office and hopefully throughout the Threshers offices will take over the blog, and hopefully provide a fresh point of view and some great content. I hope so, because I'll be reading it as well!

A Night as the Stats Stringer

Have you ever wondered how the statistics and play-by-play were compiled at a Clearwater Threshers game?

I got to experience it first-hand again last night as the stats stringer for MiLB. In the Florida State League, the stats stringer communicates by phone with an operator up north who enters the information into the MiLB software. This is the information that you see on the Internet when you visit our Official Site or the Minor League Baseball web site.

The stats stringer arrives in the press box around 15-20 minutes before the game and sits between the scoreboard operator and the official scorer. The first order of business is to call and give information about the starting lineups and current weather conditions. The stats stringer is supposed to keep score and detailed notes to give as much information as possible to the operator. It is important to note that while the stats stringer does keep score, the official scorer makes all the scoring decisions. Calls are made at every half-inning to provide frequent updates. Attention to detail, especially the current batter and pitcher are very important.

It was definitely a nice change of pace for me, as it usually takes me about 10-20 games to catch nine innings of baseball.

Alumni Update

Stars from April 7

Reading (AA) beat Bowie 6-3 in 10 innings.

Carlos Carrasco gave up just one run on three hits and struck out seven in five innings.

Patrick Overholt (1-0) pitched 2.1 scoreless innings in relief.

Brad Harman, Lou Marson, and Greg Golson all had two hits in the game.

Other Notes
Andrew Carpenter starts for Reading tonight.

Jason Donald reportedly left Monday's game with an injury.

Zagurski to Miss Season

Former Threshers pitcher Michael Zagurski will miss the 2008 season after undergoing 'Tommy John' surgery yesterday.

Mike had a 1.10 ERA and five saves in twelve appearances for the Threshers in 2007. He also saw action in Reading, Ottawa, and Philadelphia.

Alumni Update

Stars from Opening Day (4/3)

Big Night for Reading (AA) as they beat the Altoona Curve 8-3.

Andrew Carpenter (1-0) gave up two runs in five innings.

Jeremy Slayden had three hits, including a triple, and knocked in one RBI.

Jason Donald had two hits, including one double, and knocked in two RBIs.

Lou Marson had two hits and knocked in one RBI.

Threshers Roster Updated

The first 2008 Clearwater Threshers roster is now on the Official Site.

Some familiar names include Tuffy Gosewisch, PJ Antoniato, Welinson Baez, John Urick, Jake Blalock, Dan Brauer, Andrew Cruse, Brett Harker, and Nate Johnson.

New faces include top prospects Adrian Cardenas and Joe Savery.

Visit the Official Site and hover over the 'Team Info' Section to get to the roster. Be sure to check back there for updates.

Phillies Opening Day Roster Set

The Phillies have set their roster for Opening Day.

Cole Hamels and Kyle Kendrick, both former Threshers pitchers, are currently on the active roster.

Scott Mathieson and Michael Zagurski, also formerly part of the Threshers pitching staff, are starting the season on the Phillies disabled list.

Former Threshers Head to Philly

Former Threshers Lou Marson and Greg Golson have been invited to take part in the exhibition series against the Toronto Blue Jays at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. The two exhibition games are today and tomorrow.

Former Threshers Jason Donald and Patrick Overholt have been invited by the Phillies to take part in the exhibition game against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs at brand-new Coca-Cola Park on Sunday.

Andrew Carpenter Throws Four Shutout Innings

Former Threshers pitcher Andrew Carpenter got a chance to come over from the Minor League Camp and threw four shutout innings yesterday against the New York Yankees.

Randy Miller has this story on PhillyBurbs.com.

Ken Mandel has this story on MLB.com.

Stephen Miller has this story in the Allentown Morning Call.

Jason Donald Smacks Two Home Runs

Former Thresher Jason Donald traveled with the Phillies yesterday to Dunedin, and smacked two home runs to help the Phillies to a 15-7 win over the Blue Jays.

Stephen Miller had this story in Allentown Morning Call.

Updated at 1:34pm: David Murphy also had a story in the Philadelphia Daily News.

Second Round of Logo Tourney

The second round of the CNBC Logo Contest is today. Visit Sports Biz with Darren Rovell.

Help the Threshers win best Minor League Baseball Logo.

Darren Rovell of CNBC has seeded us # 8 and put us up against the # 9 seeded Worcester Tornadoes in the first round. After blowing out the Tornadoes, the Threshers now take on the # 1 seed Modesto Nuts.

First Look at 2008 Threshers April 1

Visit Bright House Field on Tuesday, April 1 at 6:30pm as the 2008 Clearwater Threshers take the field for the first time.

The exhibition game will pit the Threshers vs. Extended Spring Phillies.

Admission is free.

Season Ticket Holder Update

Just wanted to give a quick update for our Threshers Season Ticket Holders.

* We are anxiously awaiting the arrival of our the season ticket books

* The Parking Passes have been printed

* The VIP Cards have been printed

We are also able to include the Mike Alstott Charity Softball Game and 2008 BIG EAST Baseball Championships in your Season Ticket Package. Barring technical difficulty, you should have your same seat location as you have during Threshers season, and you should receive everything at the same time.

Threshers in CNBC Logo Contest

Visit Sports Biz with Darren Rovell on Monday, March 17 and vote for the Threshers as we attempt to win best Minor League Baseball Logo.

Darren Rovell of CNBC has seeded us # 8 and put us up against the # 9 seeded Worcester Tornadoes in the first round.

64 teams are part of the tournament that started five days ago.

Jeff Crupper Interviews Jason Donald

Threshers season ticket holder Jeff Crupper recently interviewed former Thresher Jason Donald.

The back and forth was posted on Phuture Phillies.

Phillies Make Roster Moves

The Phillies announced 14 transactions this morning.

Former Threshers Joe Bisenius, Scott Mathieson, J.A. Happ, and Brad Harman were optioned to minor league camp.

Former Threshers Zack Segovia, Tuffy Gosewisch, Lou Marson, and Jason Donald were re-assigned to minor league camp.

Philly Sports Talk Now

I was a guest on the Philly Sports Talk Now webcast on Wednesday.

Philly Sports Talk Now is a weekly Internet show by Rich Baxter and Jim 'Sports Dogg' Mulry, two Philadelphia sports fans.

We talked a bit about Bright House Field, Spring Training, and the Clearwater Threshers.

You can hear their show and the interview here.

Threshers Season Ticket Holder Update

Just wanted to give those of you who are Clearwater Threshers Season Ticket Holders a heads-up to let you know that you'll be receiving a letter in the mail from us in the next few days. It went out in the mail this afternoon.

We still have plenty of great seat locations left, and extra letters, so if you're not a season ticket holder yet, it's not too late to jump on board!

Carrasco and Golson Spring Updates

Former Threshers Carlos Carrasco and Greg Golson are doing well so far and are getting noticed.

David Murphy of the Philadelphia Daily News has a story. Ken Mandel also has a story for MLB.com.

Minor League Spring Training Schedule Update

Re-posted with updated schedule. Game Time on March 11 moved to 12:30pm.

The 2008 Phillies Minor League Spring Training Schedule has been released. Each organization allocates it's minor league players between AAA, AA, and A squads. It is important to note, that being placed on a particular squad does not mean that the player would start the 2008 season at that level.

Phillies Minor League Spring Training Games start on Tuesday, March 11 and continue through Saturday, March 29. The Minor League Phillies break camp on Monday, March 31 and that is when we should find out who made the Opening Day 2008 Clearwater Threshers roster.

Home games during Phillies Minor League Spring Training are played at the Carpenter Complex which is located just north of Bright House Networks Field. All home games are scheduled to start at 1pm, except Saturday, March 22 which is scheduled for a 10am start. Games are played against squads from the Blue Jays (Englebert Complex), Rays (Naimoli Complex), and Yankees (Yankees Complex) and rotate around throughout each team's respective complex.

Home games for the A Phillies are scheduled for:

Tuesday, March 11 (12:30pm start)
Thursday, March 13
Friday, March 14
Sunday, March 16
Tuesday, March 18
Thursday, March 20
Saturday, March 22 (10am)
Tuesday, March 25
Thursday, March 27
Friday, March 28

Joe Savery scheduled to start Tuesday against FSU

It appears that Joe Savery will get the honor of throwing the first pitch of the Phillies 2008 Spring Training season when he takes the mound against Florida State University on Tuesday, February 26 at 7:05pm.

Savery played for the Williamsport Crosscutters in the NY-Penn League after being drafted in the first round out of Rice.

Where do you think Savery will start the 2008 season?

Elizardo Ramirez a non-roster invitee with Rangers

Former Threshers pitcher Elizardo Ramirez is in Texas Rangers camp as a non-roster invitee.

Ramirez was a part of Phillies Spring Training in 2004.

He pitched last season in the Reds organization and spent the majority of the season with the Louisville Bats (Triple A). He also appeared in four games for the major league club.

Alfredo Simon a non-roster invitee with Dodgers

Former Threshers pitcher Alfredo Simon is set for Los Angeles Dodgers camp as a non-roster invitee. His arrival however has been delayed due to visa problems.

Simon was a part of Phillies Spring Training 2004 and 2007.

He pitched last season for the Oklahoma Redhawks (Triple A - Texas Rangers).

Jason Adams Quoted in Philadelphia Daily News

Threshers Assistant GM Jason Adams was quoted in a story today in the Philadelphia Daily News about the buzz at Phillies Spring Training.

"We were a little nervous [in that] the schedule was not as strong opponent-wise as it has been the last few years," he said, noting the Red Sox, for one, don't come to town. "But we've not seen the issues we thought we would."

Typically, Adams said, there are eight to 10 sellouts per spring. "But we've still not had a game where we turned anybody away," he said, refering to the berm seating beyond the outfield fence. "We've had enough room to sell standing room where everyone has been able to get in the ballpark."

"It makes it kind of like a socializing area where people can watch four minor-league games going on in the complex and then turn around and watch the big club as well," he said. "It's a pretty cool spot if you're a baseball junkie."

Read the whole Philadelphia Daily News Story

Kendrick To Be a Part of Phan Fest

The 2008 Phillies Phan Fest comes to Bright House Networks Field on Friday, February 22 starting at 5:30pm and running through 8:00pm.

Admission is FREE.

The event will include Autographs (more info below), Photo Booth, Silent Auction, Raffle, Yard Sale, Fireworks, Mascot Apperances, and Kids Activities.

Eight Phillies players including former Thresher Kyle Kendrick will be a part of the Autograph Session. Players will be split between two stations. Autographs will cost $15 per station which includes four autographs. The stations will be open between 7:00 and 8:00pm.

Money raised at Phan Fest will be donated by Phillies Charities to Clearwater for Youth, Clearwater Little League, and Hospice of the Florida Suncoast.

For more information please visit the Official Site.

Kendrick "punk'd"

Former Threshers pitcher Kyle Kendrick was the target of an elaborate prank by Phillies pitcher Brett Myers.

Kendrick was told that he was traded to Japan.

Assistant GM Ruben Amaro Jr., Equipment Manager Frank Coppenbarger, Manager Charlie Manuel, Kendrick's agent Joe Urbon, and the media all were clued in to help pull off the stunt.

Updated at 2:30pm: This story is traveling fast around media circles, and apparently is even going to make the Today Show at 7:30am tomorrow. Kendrick and Myers will be talking via satellite to Matt Lauer and Meredith Viera.

Check out some of the coverage below:

The MLB.com version of the story

O, by the Way - Blog from the Baltimore Sun
(links to embedded video)

phillyBurbs.com

Philadelphia Inquirer

Comcast SportsNet

When Will Mathieson and Zagurksi Return to Mound?

Former Threshers Scott Mathieson and Mike Zagurski are looking to return to the Phillies after undergoing surgeries in August 2007.

Scott Lauber has a story in today's News Journal based out of Wilmington, Delaware that reports that Mathieson is scheduled to see Dr. Lewis Yocum in Los Angeles on Monday. A good report, and he could be cleared to pitch.

Additionally, Lauber reports that Zagurski will be held out of agility drills and likely won't be ready to pitch when Spring Training games start.

Hamels Already Here

Former Thresher Cole Hamels is among several Phillies who arrived in Clearwater early to get started with their workouts.

David Murphy of the Philadelphia Daily News has a story about him in today's paper.

Bobby Mitchell Attends Ceremony For Injured Largo Boy

Group Sales Assistant Manager Bobby Mitchell attended a ceremony at Largo Middle School honoring 11-year-old Johnathon Ferland. The boy suffered a freak injury during an accident, but fortunately was wearing his bike helmet.

During the ceremony, the boy was presented with numerous items including Phillies Spring Training tickets and a Mike Schmidt autographed item.

ABC Action News was also there and has this story.

Updated on 2/5/08 at 10:52am: The St. Petersburg Times has also posted a story.

Mike Schmidt and Dave Huppert Part of Major League Camp

Former Threshers managers Mike Schmidt (2004) and Dave Huppert (2007) are among the 22 instructors slated for major league Spring Training.

Schmidt is scheduled to be a guest instructor for two weeks and will assist Steve Smith (Phillies third-base and infield coach) with the third basemen.

Huppert is now the manager of Lehigh Valley (Triple-A). This will be his first time in major league camp with the Phillies.

Outman, Carrasco, and Carpenter to start '08 in Double-A?

The Allentown Morning Call is getting ready for the start of Lehigh Valley Ironpigs baseball with a look at who might be on their roster as they open up Coca-Cola Park.

In the story, they get a quote (below) from Steve Noworyta that indicates where former Threshers Josh Outman, Carlos Carrasco, Andrew Carpenter, Joe Bisenius, and J.A. Happ will likely start the 2008 season.

"The Outmans, the Carrascos, the Carpenters, those types of player are still going to be in Double-A. This club is more the [Jason] Jaramillos and the [Joe] Biseniuses and the J.A.] Happs, those types of guys sprinkled in with the free agents that we've signed."

Other former Threshers mentioned in the article as potential Ironpigs are Mike Spidale and Scott Mathieson. Mathieson, who is getting married later this afternoon, missed most of the 2007 season after Tommy John surgery.

Read the whole Allentown Morning Call Story

Clearwater Alumni Part of Phantasy Camp

The Phillies annual Phantasy Camp is starting Thursday, January 24 and wrapping up with games at Bright House Networks Field on Sunday, January 27.

Admission is free.

Former Clearwater players involved in the Camp this year include Mickey Morandini and Ricky Bottalico.

Phillies 2008 Minor League Spring Training Games Start March 11

The 2008 Phillies Minor League Spring Training Schedule has been released. Each organization allocates it's minor league players between AAA, AA, and A squads. It is important to note, that being placed on a particular squad does not mean that the player would start the 2008 season at that level.

Phillies Minor League Spring Training Games start on Tuesday, March 11 and continue through Saturday, March 29. The Minor League Phillies break camp on Monday, March 31 and that is when we should find out who made the Opening Day 2008 Clearwater Threshers roster.

Home games during Phillies Minor League Spring Training are played at the Carpenter Complex which is located just north of Bright House Networks Field. All home games are scheduled to start at 1pm, except Saturday, March 22 which is scheduled for a 10am start. Games are played against squads from the Blue Jays (Englebert Complex), Rays (Naimoli Complex), and Yankees (Yankees Complex) and rotate around throughout each team's respective complex.

Home games for the A Phillies are scheduled for:

Tuesday, March 11
Thursday, March 13
Friday, March 14
Sunday, March 16
Tuesday, March 18
Thursday, March 20
Saturday, March 22 (10am)
Tuesday, March 25
Thursday, March 27
Friday, March 28

Chris Roberson Traded

Former Thresher Chris Roberson has been traded from the Phillies to the Baltimore Orioles. The Phillies will receive cash in return.

Roberson hit .307 for the Clearwater Threshers during the 2004 season.

He split each of the last two seasons between Triple-A and and Philadelphia.

Former Threshers Invited to Phillies Spring Training

The Phillies have announced that they are inviting 19 non-roster players to Spring Training in Clearwater, Florida.

Seven former Threshers are on the list.

They are:

Pitchers: Carlos Carrasco and Josh Outman

Catchers: Tuffy Gosewisch, Tim Gradoville, and Lou Marson

Infielder: Jason Donald

Outfielder: Greg Goslon

Eight more former Threshers are currently on the Phillies 40-man roster indicating that they to will also be at Phillies Spring Training in 2008.

They are: Joe Bisenius, Cole Hamels, J.A. Happ, Kyle Kendrick, Scott Mathieson, Mike Zagurski, Brad Harman, and Chris Roberson.

Razor Shines Selected as 2008 Threshers Manager

The Phillies announced their 2008 Player Development Staff yesterday.

Razor Shines, most-recently the major league third base coach for the Chicago White Sox, is the Threshers fourth manager.

Kevin Jordan is the hitting coach and Steve Schrenk returns as the pitching coach for the Threshers.

Elsewhere in the organization, Dave Huppert is now the manager of the brand new Triple-A affiliate in the Lehigh Valley. Greg Legg is the hitting coach for Single-A Lakewood.

Former Threshers re-sign with Phillies as Minor League Free Agents

The Phillies announced the signing of 13 minor league free agents over the weekend and several of the names should look familiar to Clearwater Threshers' fans.

Returning to the Phillies organization are: RJ Swindle, Jake Blalock, Branden Florence, Mike Spidale, Orlando Guevera, and John Suomi.

RJ Swindle | He was 0-1 with a 4.80 ERA in 12 games for the Threshers in 2007. Swindle also saved three games.

Jake Blalock | He hit .264 in 42 games with the Threshers in 2007. Blalock also had six homer and 26 RBIs. He also spent the entire 2005 season with the Threshers.

Branden Florence | He hit .327 with seven homers and 86 RBIs for the Threshers in 2006.

Mike Spidale | He hit .275 in 58 games with the Threshers in 2007.

Orlando Guevera | He has spent at least part of the last four seasons with the Threshers.

John Suomi | He hit .258 in 20 games with the Threshers in 2007.

Get Your Threshers Opening Night Tickets Now

The Phillies Spring Training Stocking Stuffer ad is in today's St. Petersburg Times.

This mail order only offer includes the purchase of two field box tickets to the Clearwater Threshers Opening Night game against the Dunedin Blue Jays. Opening Night is Thursday, April 3 at 7pm. Enjoy the beginning of another Clearwater Threshers season on a Thirsty Thursday, and get TWO for ONE drinks throughout the ballpark.

This Stocking Stuffer ad should run again in the St. Petersburg Times on December 6 and December 9.

Now Hiring: Ticket Office Representatives

Join our team!
Job Title:
Ticket Office Representative (part-time)

Length of Assignment:
Seasonal – Phillies (Jan-Mar), Threshers (Apr-Aug)

Background on Teams:
The 2007 NL East Division Champion Philadelphia Phillies will be conducting Spring Training in Clearwater, Florida for the 62nd year in 2008. Phillies Spring Training home games, which take place in March, are played at beautiful Bright House Networks Field near the corner of US 19 and Drew Street.

At the conclusion of Spring Training, the Clearwater Threshers begin a 140 game (70 home) season. The 2007 Florida State League Champion Threshers are the Phillies Advance-A affiliate. Bright House Networks Field also hosts numerous special events throughout the year.

Job Description:
Primary duties include selling tickets to our guests via ticket windows or telephones (incoming calls). Other duties as directed.

Requirements:
Employee must be comfortable using a computer. Representative must be customer-friendly and have good interpersonal and telephone skills. Ability to work under pressure, adaptability, and punctuality are a must. Flexible schedule as hours vary depending on event. Paciolan experience preferred but not necessary, as we will train. Bilingual not necessary but is a plus.

Contact:
Kevin Brahm – Ticket Manager – Phillies Florida LLC
kbrahm@threshersbaseball.com
www.ThreshersBaseball.com | www.Phillies.com

Brad Harman added to Phillies 40-man roster

The Phillies have added Brad Harman to their 40-man roster.

He hit .281 in 122 games for the Clearwater Threshers in 2007. Harman had a stellar second half of the season, hitting .321 after the All-Star break.

Harman is one of four infielders currently on the Phillies 40-man roster who have played in Clearwater.

Phillies.com Press Release

Jimmy Rollins wins NL MVP

Former Clearwater star Jimmy Rollins has won the 2007 National League MVP Award.

He received half of the first-place votes and didn't finish lower than fifth on anyone's MVP ballot. Rollins is the first shortstop to win the NL MVP since 1995.

Rollins' win gives the Phillies back-to-back MVPs as former Clearwater star Ryan Howard won in 2006. Howard came in fifth this season. Another former Clearwater star, Chase Utley, finished eighth in the voting.

Former Threshers manager Mike Schmidt won the NL MVP Award as a Phillie in 1980, 1981, and 1986.

Rollins also won his first Gold Glove and Silver Slugger Awards this year. He played for Clearwater in 1998.

See the MLB.com story and chart

Cole Hamels comes in 6th in NL Cy Young Voting

Former Thresher Cole Hamels received two third place votes to give him a total of two points which was good for sixth place in the 2007 National League Cy Young Award voting.

Hamels was the youngest player to receive a vote in the balloting for the award this year.

Former Phillies who have won the Cy Young Award include Steve Bedrosian (1987), John Denny (1983), and Steve Carlton (1972, 1977, 1980, 1982).

See the MLB.com story and chart

AFL Season in Review

The Arizona Fall League (AFL) has put another season in the books. Let's review how our list of familiar names did this year.

Greg Golson | He hit .266 with six doubles, three triples, and two home runs. He scored 17 runs and knocked in 16 RBIs. He also stole eight bases.

AFL Top 10: Games, At-Bats, Runs, Hits, Doubles, Triples, RBIs, and Stolen Bases

Tuffy Gosewisch | He had 12 hits in 48 at-bats (.250) in 14 games. Included in his 12 hits were two doubles and a home run. He scored four runs and knocked in six RBIs.

Mike Costanzo | He had 17 hits in 25 games. Included in his 17 hits were one double and two home runs. He scored six runs and knocked in 10 RBIs.

Joe Bisenius | He threw 10 innings over six games and finished with a 1-1 record. He gave up 13 hits and struck out 12.

Patrick Overholt | He split the season between the role of a starter and coming out of the bullpen. He threw 20.2 innings over nine games and finished with a 3-2 record. He gave up 18 hits and struck out 11. He held hitters to a .243 batting average.

AFL Top 10: Wins

Josh Outman | He split the season between the Saguaros and Team USA. In three starts for Peoria (0-1), he struck out eight in 7.2 innings. He made two relief appearances (1-0) for the Red, White, and Blue and struck out five in six innings.

Chris Booker | He gave up just one hit and struck out three in two relief appearances for Team USA. He also picked up a save in his 3 innings of work.

Baseball America names Phillies Top 10 Prospects

Chris Kline of Baseball America has named the Phillies Top 10 Prospects for 2007 and many names should look familiar to Threshers' fans.

Former Threshers on the Top 10 list include Carlos Carrasco (1), Josh Outman (4), Dominic Brown (6), Greg Golson (7), Lou Marson (8), and Andrew Carpenter (9).

Included in the story is a 'best-of' list in a variety of categories.

Former Threshers include:

Greg Golson | Best Power Hitter, Fastest Baserunner, Best Athlete, Best Defensive Outfielder, and Best Outfield Arm

Carlos Carrasco | Best Fastball and Best Changeup

Josh Outman | Best Slider

Andrew Carpenter | Best Control

Kline also forecasts the Phillies 2011 lineup and if his projection holds, some former Clearwater folks will be mighty happy. Lou Marson is listed as the catcher, while Dominic Brown is at center field. Former Threshers would make up three-fifths of the starting rotation with Hamels (1), Carrasco (3), and Outman (5).

Cole Hamels was Baseball America's Top Phillies prospect last season.

See the full Baseball America lists and story

Kyle Kendrick comes in 5th in NL ROY voting

Former Thresher Kyle Kendrick received one second place vote and four third place votes to give him a total of seven points which was good for fifth place in the 2007 National League Rookie of the Year voting.

Kendrick was the only pitcher to receive any votes in the balloting for the award this year.

Two former Clearwater stars have won the NL Rookie of the Year Award. Ryan Howard won in 2005 and Scott Rolen finished first in 1997.

See the MLB.com story and chart

Threshers Promotions Meeting Tomorrow

There is a Threshers Promotions meeting setup for tomorrow afternoon to discuss some what worked and what didn't work last year.

We should be talking about the Weekly Promos (ie. Feeding Frenzy Monday, Bright House Networks Family Day, etc.), Giveaways (Bobbleheads, Jerseys, etc.), Theme Nights, and more!

What promotions did you like?

What promotions did you dislike?

What would you like to see in 2008?

Let me know and I will pass along your thoughts and ideas to the folks in the meeting.

Former Thresher Mike Costanzo Talks About Trade

Chris Kline from Baseball America has a short interview with Mike Costanzo about his trade to the Astros.

BA: You sound pretty amped up. How excited are you right now?

MC: I’m really fired up. It took a little time to get over the fact that I won’t be a Phillie. I mean, I grew up watching that team in the Vet and Citizen’s Bank (Park) is unbelievable. I’m just thrilled to go to Houston right now. This might be the best thing for my career. It’s a great organization.

Read the full Baseball America interview

Former Threshers Now Free Agents

The following former Threshers are now free agents:

Name (Most Recent Organization)

Brad Correll (Red Sox)
Elizardo Ramirez (Reds)
Matt Sweeney (Astros)
Julio de la Cruz (Phillies)
Charles Weatherby (Phillies)
Jason Wylie (Phillies)
Allen Davis (Phillies)
Chris Key (Phillies)
Luis Villarreal (Phillies)
Cory Willey (Phillies)
John Urick (Phillies)
Carlos Leon (Phillies)
Peeter Ramos (Phillies)
Nic Jackson (Phillies)
Alfredo Simon (Rangers)

Check out the whole list from Baseball America.

Former Thresher Mike Costanzo traded to Astros

Former Thresher Mike Costanzo joins Michael Bourn and Geoff Geary as the newest members of the Houston Astros. The Phillies received Brad Lidge and Eric Bruntlett in the deal.

Mike Costanzo | He spent the 2006 season in Clearwater hitting .258 with 14 home runs and 81 RBIs.

Geoff Geary | He started 19 games for Clearwater in 1999. He was 10-5 with a 3.95 ERA.

Michael Bourn | He was a fourth round pick in the 2003 draft. He skipped Clearwater during his progression to the Majors.

Brad Lidge | He was a starting pitcher in the Florida State League for Kissimmee during the 1999 and 2000 seasons.

Eric Bruntlett | He skipped Single-A ball during his progression to the Majors. He was a ninth round pick in the 2000 draft out of Stanford.

Baseball America Profiles Team USA

Ben Badler and Chris Kline profile Team USA for Baseball America.

Josh Outman

Outman was one of two pitchers to appear on one of Baseball America’s top 20 prospects lists, checking in at No. 14 in the Florida State League. He is an athletic lefthander works with a 92-94 mph fastball and a mid-80s slider... Outman relies more on the strikeout to get opposing hitters out, notching 117 strikeouts in as many innings in 2007. Although Outman may be the best prospect in the rotation, he also pitched at the lowest minor league level compared to his fellow Team USA starters.

Chris Booker

The 30-year-old Booker has always posted quality peripheral numbers in his 12 minor league seasons—including 83 strikeouts in 53 Triple-A innings in 2007—but has never found success in brief big league stints.

Full Baseball America Story

AFL Update (as of 11/4/07)

The Arizona Fall League (AFL) has finished up another week and it's time again to check up on our list of familiar names.

Greg Golson | He has picked up the pace since our last update stringing together a five-game hitting streak. He has upped his number of doubles on the AFL season to five.

Tuffy Gosewisch | He has continued to do well in Arizona, going one for four with a run scored in his three games since our last update.

Mike Costanzo | He has struggled since our last update only picking up two hits in four games.

Joe Bisenius | He has added just one more relief appearances since our last update. He gave up two runs on three hits and struck out two in 1.1 innings of work.

Patrick Overholt | He gave up three runs on four hits and struck out one in three innings of work, which was good enough for his second victory of the AFL season.

Josh Outman | He picked up his first win for the Red, White, and Blue in relief. He threw four innings of shutout baseball giving up just three hits while striking out three.

Chris Booker | He made his second relief appearance for Team USA, giving up one hit and striking out one in two innings of shutout baseball.

Watch AFL Action on MLB.TV

2008 Threshers Home Game Times Set

This post was updated on 11/5/07 at 12:30pm

It looks like the Game Times are set for the 2008 Clearwater Threshers home slate.

There is only one slight change from 2007. Sunday games during the second half of the season will start at 4:00pm instead of 1:00pm.

Here are the regular Game Times for 2008:

Monday - Friday - 7:00 p.m.
Saturday - 6:30 p.m.
Sunday (First Half of Season) - 1:00 p.m.
Sunday (Second Half of Season)- 4:00 p.m.

Note: There are a few Wednesday games that will have earlier starts for Camp Day and other special events.

What do you think about the change on Sundays?

Poll Question: What was your favorite part of Boo Bash 2007?

The current Poll Question on the Official Site asks, "What was your favorite part of Boo Bash 2007?"

The four choices are:

(1) Candy Stations
(2) Costumes / Costume Contest
(3) Haunted House
(4) Hay Ride

Which one would you pick?

Vote now on the Official Site and talk about your choice in the comments section under this post.

Poll Recap: 2007 Threshers Relief Pitcher of the Year

Will Savage has been voted by visitors on the Official Site as the the 2007 Threshers Relief Pitcher of the Year.

Savage won in a relatively close race with 38% of the vote.

Cory Willey finished in second place with nearly 30% of the vote, while Ron 'Bear' Hill finished third with nearly 21% of the vote. Brett Harker came in fourth with just over 11% of the visitor's votes.

What do you think about the results?