Your 2008 B.C. Manatees -- Latest: Manatee Jersey Sale

[Mass Haas]

Brevard County Roster

That's kind of an eclectic group, especially on the mound. (That's a fancy way of saying there's a dearth of top echeclon pitching prospects, but this could be an entertaining bunch to follow, even with very limited audio opportunities.)

So far, the players "missing in action" (released, extended spring training rehabs in Maryvale -- we'll work on getting updates this week) are OF Steve Moss, OF Mike Goetz, LHP Chris Cody, C Brian Munhall, C Nestor Corredor, C D.J. Neyens, RHP Mark Rogers (Maryvale), RHP Brett Campbell, RHP Juan Sandoval, RHP Matt Kretzschmar, RHP Dane de la Rosa, RHP Brock Kjeldgaard, OF Anthony Wycklendt, and 1B Ned Yost (mulling coaching offer). 2B Eric Farris should be in West Virginia in a couple of weeks. If I missed anyone that should be listed as "MIA", please chime in, not counting youngsters who are likely to repeat Helena and/or Maryvale.

We've kept all the above players on our Brewerfan Player Index until their current status is known.

[Mass Haas]

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A step in the right direction for Caufield

Jeff Cali, Ada (OK) Sports Editor

Former Ada High superstar Chuckie Caufield has taken one more step toward the Big Leagues.

 

Caufield made his national television debut as a professional last Thursday when the Milwaukee Brewers battled the Chicago Cubs on WGN in a spring training battle.

 

It was pretty neat seeing Caufield take some cuts against big-league pitchers.

 

While he didn't hit the two home runs his mother and I had hoped for, it still must have been a thrill for Caufield get a feel for what it's like to compete in an actual Major League Baseball game.

 

Caufield entered the game as a pinch runner for left fielder Ryan Braun. You may have heard of Braun, who hit 34 home runs in just 451 at-bats last year as a rookie.

 

Both teams used mostly opening day starters. Joining Caufield in the Brewers lineup were the likes of Prince Fielder, Rickie Weeks, Mike Cameron and J.J. Hardy. Big names playing in the contest for the Cubs included Alfonso Soriano, Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez.

 

And right there with them all was our boy Caufield.

 

The most entertaining Caufield moment in the game came in the fourth inning when he stepped to the plate with runners at first and third. Pitching for the Cubbies was Sean Marshall, who was trying to earn a spot in Chicago's starting rotation.

 

After falling behind 1-2 (and he JUST missed on one big cut that he fouled off), Caufield watched as the Cubs lefty tried to paint the outside corner with back-to-back breaking balls. Surprisingly, with the count full, the Cubs decided to intentionally walk Caufield to load the bases! Cowards!

 

The move worked as Marshall got Taylor Green (who had replaced Bill Hall in the Brewers lineup) to ground out to shortstop to end the threat.

 

Caufield's 0-for-2 showing probably didn't earn him a roster spot with the Brewers just yet. But he's played well enough in the minor league to earn this cool spring training spot.

 

Annette Caufield, Chuckie's mother, says he'll most likely start the season with the Brevard County Manatees, an advanced A squad out of Florida. There are many things worse than playing baseball in the Sunshine State. The Manatees open their 2008 season Thursday at Daytona.

 

Obviously, Annette was more than excited to get to see her baby boy on national television.

 

"It just thrilled me to death to see him on TV. It was real fun. He's worked so hard and accomplished a lot," she said.

 

What did Chuckie think about his moment in the Big League spotlight?

 

"He felt like he did okay. He was disappointed he didn't get a hit," Annette said.

 

Last Thursday's contest with the Cubs was certainly a step in the right direction for Caufield's professional career. With the work ethic and God-given talent he has, it shouldn't be much longer before Caufield goes prime time, full time.

[piccione88]

What happened to Steve Moss. Colbyjack expected him to be on the Brevard County roster, since he wasnt on the Sounds, or Stars roster. Is it possible he got cut, or suspended without an announcment being made? Or is it just a mistake, I cant believe that Freddy Parejo is more deserving of a spot than him.

[colbyjack]

Check out the transaction thread in this forum, as Mass noted earlier this evening that Moss has been released.

 

Oh yeah, and I wouldn't say that I "expected" Moss to be on BC's roster, just that we would have to wait and see if he was on it to try and determine what happened to him. It's too bad, as plenty of people were excited about what he could do when we drafted him several years ago now, none more than Katuluu, but as Mass noted he's still young and likely will still be given opportunities with his skill set.

[homer]

I can't believe Fermaint is only 22.

[DHonks]

Mike Jones is active? I seem to recall reading a spring training article that said he was throwing a few innings in a game, but that's a bit surprising. His TJ surgery must have gone VERY well.

 

Either that, or he just wasn't put on the DL on that list

[Mass Haas]

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New skipper shows Manatees 'respect'

Veteran minor-league manager makes early impression on youngsters

BY JIM CAWLEY

FLORIDA TODAY

Yes, these are your Brevard County Manatees.

Featuring a new manager, general manager and a roster of about 75 percent new players, the Manatees set out to defend their Florida State League East Division championship today when they travel to Daytona Beach for their regular-season opener against the Cubs.

The home opener at Space Coast Stadium is Saturday at 7:00 PM (6:00 PM Central) against the Palm Beach Cardinals.

Mike Guerrero takes over as manager, replacing 2007 FSL Manager of the Year John Tamargo. Guerrero has spent 22 years in the Brewers organization, including the past 14 as a manager.

Last season, Guerrero led the West Virginia Power to the best regular-season record in the South Atlantic League, which is one level below the FSL. Like the Manatees, the Power were beaten in the finals.

Managing in places like West Virginia -- and the Arizona Rookie League before that -- Guerrero already is familiar with most of his current players. So while the '08 version of the Manatees may take some getting used to for Brevard County fans, that's not the case for its 40-year-old manager.

"That does help. But it's a new league for them," Guerrero said. "Baseball is baseball everywhere, but you need to make adjustments."

And those adjustments start with the new manager.

"I don't have a style -- I adjust every night," Guerrero said. "It depends on what I get from my players; it depends on how everything is going. I just try to get out of their way."

First-year GM Kyle Smith, who took over in February after Buck Rogers accepted the same position at Double-A Huntsville, has been impressed with Guerrero in their short time together.

"I think he's a great manager for a young team," Smith said. "He can adapt to younger people's ups and downs, and I think he's going to be a very good manager for us here, and in the future."

Reliever Travis Wendte played for Guerrero in West Virginia last season before being called up to Brevard County on July 26. Wendte appeared in 11 games for the Manatees, going 1-1 with a 2.70 ERA.

"(Guerrero) values hard work. He makes sure that everyone does the little things right," Wendte said. "He's a great teacher, and he knows the game real well."

Guerrero's teachings don't include a long list of rules.

"You play the game right; you play the game professionally," Guerrero said. "You've got to respect the game. You don't embarrass your team, yourself or anybody because this is our way of living.

"You take care of the game, the game will take care of you -- that's my only rule."

Gone from the Manatees are players like Mat Gamel, Cole Gillespie, Chris Errecart, Mike Bell, Ben Stanczyk and David Welch -- all of whom were promoted to Huntsville. In their places are a host of new names -- with some exceptions. Fans from last season will remember pitchers Rafael Lluberes, Mike McClendon, Josh Wahpepah and Wendte, catcher Anderson De La Rosa, infielder Yohannis Perez and outfielders Lorenzo Cain, Charlie Fermaint and Darren Ford.

Of the several newcomers, who are players to keep an eye on? Guerrero wasn't revealing his hand.

"Yeah, there are 25 guys out there that you need to keep your eye on," he said. "All of my team -- even my batboy, to the clubhouse guy, is important to me. I have no preference. Everyone is the same; everyone is important."

Cain is one guy who figures to lead the way. The 21-year-old, who batted .276 with 21 doubles and 24 stolen bases for the Manatees in 2007, said his goal is to hit over .300 and steal 30-40 bases this season.

"I'm going to do my best to show leadership for the team; try to help us win more games and see how far we can go," Cain said.

"I just want to try to have fun, not to be as tense as I was last year."

Wahpepah is a two-time FSL All-Star who should stabilize the bullpen. A former starter and reliever, the 23-year-old righty believes he has found his niche as a reliever.

In 41 appearances last season -- 39 in a relief role -- Wahpepah was 9-5 with a 3.26 ERA.

"I think we'll have a good group," he said. "We've got a lot of young guys and a couple old guys here to mix in, so it should be pretty good chemistry. And that usually leads to a good team."

The Manatees won the first half division championship last season, qualifying for the playoffs for the first time since 2001. They defeated the St. Lucie Mets two games to one in the East Division finals before losing to the Clearwater Threshers 3-1 in the championship.

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Photo by Craig Rubadoux, FLORIDA TODAY

[Mass Haas]

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Crossing the diamond

Trade forces pitcher to switch sides before his scheduled start

BY JIM CAWLEY

FLORIDA TODAY

Josh Butler's normal pregame routine quickly became highly abnormal about an hour before Tuesday's scheduled start against the Brevard County Manatees.

The 6-foot-5 Vero Beach right-hander was stretching out with the trainer at Holman Stadium when he was summoned for an important meeting.

"I knew they wanted to talk to me about something -- but I didn't know if it had something to do with the game," Butler said. "Once I saw six guys sitting around in a circle, I kind of had a feeling it was something serious."

Butler learned he had been traded to the Milwaukee Brewers organization for major-league outfielder Gabe Gross. The trade meant scrapping his scheduled start and reporting to the Brewers' Florida State League affiliate -- Brevard County.

The trade, in this case, meant reporting to the other side of the diamond.

"That was the weirdest part, that I had to switch locker rooms, and that was my new team," Butler said. "I was supposed to be throwing against them. It was weird at the time. I didn't really know what to do."

What Butler did do was turn in his Vero Beach uniform and spend a little time in each dugout. He said goodbye to former teammates and hello to new ones.

Then he sought neutral ground.

"For the rest of the game, I kind of hung out in the stands," Butler said.

"I just sat in the stands and didn't really root for anybody. I was on the phone a lot anyway."

The California native and former University of San Diego star spoke with family members and his agent, while still trying to absorb the surprising news.

The Manatees were caught off guard as well.

"Getting prepared for a guy, and him being traded over to your side . . . it's kind of weird," Brevard County second baseman Kenny Holmberg said. "It's nothing you expect. It's a funny game, and sometimes some funny things happen."

Butler's new teammates immediately began prodding him for information about Vero Beach pitchers. Then they had some fun with him.

"A couple of guys were telling him how lucky he was that he got sent over, or he might have had a rough outing," Holmberg said. "But it's all fun. We have a loose clubhouse; we've got some guys who like to have some fun, and I'm sure he's going to enjoy his time over here with us."

Butler made his first start with the Manatees Friday night at Space Coast Stadium against the Jupiter Hammerheads. Placed on a pitch count in the 70-range, he struck out four and walked none in four shutout innings. Brevard County won the game 4-1.

"It was definitely a relief. I didn't want to come out here and get blown up my first outing," Butler said. "It went well, and we got a 'W' out of the game."

Butler was 0-2 with a 6.35 ERA in three starts with Vero Beach this season. He was called up to the Florida State League's Devil Rays from the Columbus Catfish of the South Atlantic League after the All-Star break last season.

Gross, who spent the past two seasons with Milwaukee, is a career .243 hitter in the major leagues. This season, he was batting .209 with three doubles and two RBIs in 16 games.

Butler is a sinkerball pitcher, who has a slider, curve and changeup in his repertoire. He also has the task of living up to the expectations of being traded straight up for a big-league player.

"I wasn't expecting that; it was quite an honor," Butler said. "It obviously means the Brewers think highly of me."

Manatees manager Mike Guerrero echoed that belief.

"He's going to be an important part of, not just this team, but of the organization," Guerrero said. "Every time you have an opportunity to open eyes . . . I hope he takes advantage of the opportunity."

But like the players, Guerrero couldn't resist taking a shot at his newest player's uncanny trade circumstances.

"Baseball is like that -- it will surprise a lot of people," said Guerrero, who jokingly added "he got lucky."

 

Photo by Paul Kantz, for FLORIDA TODAY

Brevard County Manatees pitcher Josh Butler, who was traded to the team on Tuesday, delivers a pitch during Friday's game against the Jupiter Hammerheads at Space Coast Stadium.

 

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[Mass Haas]

Manatees of the Month

BY JIM CAWLEY
FLORIDA TODAY

Each month, FLORIDA TODAY will choose Manatees of the Month -- featuring one pitcher and one position player. April's picks are in: P Donovan Hand and 3B Taylor Green.

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• Name: RHP Donovan Hand
• Height/weight: 6-4, 190
• Age: 22
• Birthplace: Jacksonville, AL
• College: Jacksonville State
• April stats: 3-1, 2.25 ERA. In five games, Hand struck out 22 and walked five.
• Quotable: "I've been working hard in between starts, and going out there with a gameplan. The main thing is, I've been executing my pitches better and throwing all three pitches (sinker, slider, changeup) for strikes."

• Name: 3B Taylor Green
• Height/weight: 5-10, 180
• Age: 21
• Birthplace: Comox, BC
• College: Cypress College
• April stats: Posted team-highs in batting average (.326) and hits (30) for players with 50 or more at-bats.
• Quotable: "Guys are getting on base in front of me, and it's always easier to hit when there are guys on base. I'm seeing the ball pretty well right now. It's starting to feel comfortable up there."

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[Mass Haas]

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Axford gets new start in Brewers' system

By Brian Smiley

Brantford (Ontario, Canada) Expositor

 

It looks as if John Axford won't be wearing pinstripes at Yankee Stadium.

 

Axford, a 25-year-old Port Dover resident, had a pretty decent 2007 season as a Yankees farmhand. However, just before Christmas he received the call dreaded by every minor league player - he was being released.

 

"It was at the beginning of December, I just got a call from one of their player development guys," said the right-handed pitcher, who was able to latch on with the Milwaukee Brewers early in 2008.

 

"What he told me was I did everything they needed, I worked hard and I was a class act. But they had a lot of time and money invested in other guys. I was kind of surprised. I was looking forward to this year, especially after finishing in High A."

 

Axford began his 2007 season with the Yankees by pitching a AAA game. He then bounced around before winding up the season at High A Tampa.

 

The six-foot-five, 195-pound former Assumption College student was going about his business late last year when the call from the Yankees came.

 

Instead of panicking, Axford did what he normally does.

 

"I just started throwing in January and had my agent call a few teams," the former standout at Notre Dame University and Canisius College said. "Milwaukee seemed to be the only team with a lot of interest."

 

Members of the Brewers organization came north to see Axford pitch at The Baseball Zone in Mississauga. He then went to Phoenix at the beginning of March and threw batting practice, signing his contract the same day he pitched.

 

While watching Axford pitch, the people with the Brewers told him they believed he would start at High A, meaning he would fill a roster spot with the Brevard County Manatees in the Florida State League. And that's where he is.

 

Axford, an unsigned Major League draftee of both the Seattle Mariners and Cincinnati Reds, was mainly used as a reliever with the Yankees last season. However, the Brewers have different plans.

 

"They had me going as a starter during spring training," said Axford. "I was throwing a lot of pitches but, when camp broke, they had me piggy-backing another guy (Mike Jones) who had Tommy John surgery.

 

"He would throw a couple of innings and then I would throw four or five innings after that."

 

Axford, who had Tommy John surgery a few years ago to repair his right elbow, did some piggy-back starting last year with the Yankees so he was used to that role. And because he was mainly a reliever last year - after spending the rest of his career as a starter - he wasn't sure he had the attitude needed to begin games anymore.

 

"I felt last year I might not have the mentality for starting because when I was a starter my ERA was six or seven and when I came out of the pen it was two or three," he said.

 

After beginning the season with five appearances as a reliever, Axford started his first game of the season on April 30 against the Jupiter Hammerheads, going just two innings and getting a no-decision.

 

He then started on Monday night against the Clearwater Threshers, going four innings and getting another no-decision.

 

All told this season, he's 1-2 with a 4.10 ERA in seven games. He's struck out 25, walked 21 and given up 28 hits in 26 1/3 innings of work.

 

At times his stuff has been great.

 

"It's coming back," Axford said of his fastball. "Pretty much every outing I've had I'm hitting 92 and 93 (miles per hour) and (on April 30) I threw 95.

 

"Even when I got the loss against Vero Beach (Devil Rays, earlier in the season) my curveball and chageup were hitting their spots. I was throwing really, really well."

 

Axford is hoping to move up to the AA Huntsville Stars sometime this season.

 

"I don't want to get ahead of myself but I have high expectations," he said. "I'd like to think I would move up."

 

AROUND THE HORN: The Brewers have a strong Canadian connection, with Doug Melvin, the major league team's executive vice-president and general manager, hailing from Chatham. "There's a lot of Canadians in the organization," noted Axford. "There are three on our team and one (Taylor Green of Courtenay, B.C.) was Milwaukee's minor league player of the year. When I was with the Yankees, I was the only Canadian." . . . Brevard County is currently 17-16, placing them second to the Palm Beach Cardinals (21-13) in the FSL's East Division.

[Mass Haas]

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Manatees' man of steal

Ford ties FSL record with five stolen bases in a game

BY JIM CAWLEY

FLORIDA TODAY

 

How fast is Brevard County Manatees center fielder Darren Ford?

 

"You don't see that kind of speed -- only on cars," first-year Manatees manager Mike Guerrero said. "That's what he has. He's a really good athlete with amazing speed. So anytime he has a chance, he's going to steal a base."

 

Ford had several chances Monday night in Clearwater. The 22-year-old leadoff man tied a Florida State League record with five stolen bases in a game during a 7-6 loss to the Threshers.

 

Incredibly, Ford accomplished the feat without recording a hit.

 

In the first inning Monday, Ford reached on an error, then stole second and third. He reached on a fielder's choice in the third inning, and stole second. After walking in the sixth, he stole second and third again.

 

"You're not always going to have a good day at the plate -- this baseball game is crazy," Ford said. "Any way you can get on -- error, blooper, whatever -- it doesn't matter. If you can get on and help your team out, it's a good thing."

 

Ford wasn't aware of the record during the game, but learned he had tied it immediately after. When he switched on his cell phone in the visitors' clubhouse, there was a text message from his agent that alerted him to the news.

 

And if Ford can tie the league record without getting a hit, imagine what he could do on a day when he gets three or four hits?

 

"He just has that kind of speed," Guerrero said. "Any given day, he could break the record and establish a new one.

 

"Any time he gets on base, he's going to steal. At some point in time, he's going to steal -- either second, third or home plate -- you never know."

 

Ford leads the FSL in steals with 21. His next closest competitor, Sarasota outfielder Drew Stubbs, has 14. Ford's closest teammate in steals is outfielder Charlie Fermaint with nine.

 

"Once I get on, I just tell myself there's nobody who can throw me out," Ford said. "I just get that going through my head. Being able to go out there, get on base and steal bases . . . a lot of people can't do it. I just thank God for the gift that he gave me."

 

At the plate, Ford admittedly isn't where he wants to be. But as he pointed out, "it's still early." In 34 games this season, he is batting .223 with two homers and nine RBIs. He has struck out 37 times and walked 16.

 

"My swing will be able to come," Ford said. "And once that comes, I'll be able to steal more bases."

 

Ford played for Guerrero with the South Atlantic League's West Virginia Power last season before being called up to Brevard County on June 6. He was an SAL All-Star, who still had time to make quite a bit of noise at the next level. Ford finished 2007 third in the FSL with 36 stolen bases.

 

Baseball America lists him as the best defensive outfielder and fastest baserunner amongst Brewers prospects.

 

"There is nobody else in the organization who can run like him," Guerrero said. "There are a couple of guys that get close to him, but not equal. (That's the case) all the way through in baseball, I believe."

 

Guerrero also believes Ford could become almost unstoppable on the basepaths once he improves his consistency and develops his instincts.

 

"A lot of times, he relies purely on his speed," Guerrero said. "With that kind of speed, when he can understand how things work, he'll probably be able to walk to second base."

 

Brevard's Darren Ford slides into third during the sixth inning Thursday against Tampa. (Amanda Stratford, FLORIDA TODAY)

 

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[DrWood]

unless ford wants to be another mel stocker, he better do more than steal bases. his hitting is abysmal this season. He has to bring it up so he can at least get promoted next season.

[Mass Haas]

Adam McCalvy of MLB.com with the scoop --

Jeffress' suspension to end Thursday

By Adam McCalvy / MLB.com

 

MILWAUKEE -- One of the Brewers' top pitching prospects has served his time and will be back on the field this week.

 

Right-hander Jeremy Jeffress, Milwaukee's first-round pick in the 2006 First-Year Player Draft, will be reinstated from a 50-game suspension on Thursday and is scheduled to pitch that night for Class A Brevard County in Viera, Fla. That's assuming the wildfires in Florida do not alter the baseball schedule.

 

Jeffress, a 20-year-old right-hander from rural Virginia with a 100-mph fastball, went 9-5 with a 3.13 ERA last season for Class A West Virginia before he was suspended for testing positive for a "drug of abuse." He also reportedly failed team-administered tests as recently as last fall and admitted in February to having a problem with marijuana.

 

"Baseball is a game I love. This is what I want to do for a living," Jeffress told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel in February. "I had a problem. I've been to rehab to get it straight. I'm not ashamed that I've been in rehab. I went there to get help. It's something that helped me."

 

The Brewers selected Jeffress with the 16th overall pick in the 2006 Draft and gave him a $1.55 million signing bonus. Under baseball's tougher drug testing rules, he would be suspended 100 games for his next positive test, then would be kicked out of the game should he fail another after that.

 

***

 

It'd be pretty exciting to see Jeffress and Zach Braddock back-to-back in the Manatee rotation at some point, that's for sure -- Alex Periard, Josh Butler, Donovan Hand, pretty impressive...

[TuesdaysWithRillo]

Yay! Jeffress is back! I got a chance to see this guy throw at Maryvale and he absolutely throws smoke. I told him to keep up the good work and he gave me his autograph. Can't wait to see this guy back on the mound!

[twobrewers]

Very exciting. This has been long anticipated.

[Never Outhustled]

Its a great sign that he's going to Brevard County. While I was kind of expecting that, he didn't throw alot of innings at West Virginia last year. He obviously looked good in extended spring training. Also, props to the Brewers, who have a player assistance program to help players like Jeffress with off the field issues that not all teams have. Jeffress definately has huge upside, and could move fast if his command is in order.

[TheCrew07]

Sweet that the site is backup, I was in the middle of posting this last night when I got cut off...

 

I'm a little surprised that's he's moving along to A+, he joined WV right about this time last year didn't he? He also lost 1 or 2 starts at the end of the season so he didn't get a full season of ball. I would have though they'd do with him what they did with Braddock and bump him quickly if he's successfull.

 

At any rate here's hoping the young man has success and makes me a believer again.

[brewmann04]

nICE TO HAVE HIM BACK and hopefully he beat his substance problem and will shine for the crew

[TooLiveBrew]

Yay! Jeffress is back! I got a chance to see this guy throw at Maryvale and he absolutely throws smoke

 

Mmmust... resist urge... to make... smoking joke. http://forum.brewerfan.net/images/smilies/smile.gif

 

I share everyone's enthusiasm. Certainly a 'yahoo!' kind of moment when the highest-ceiling young arm in the system gets to go back to work. Best of luck, Jeremy! Hope to see you in Milwaukee someday soon.

[Mass Haas]

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Manatees' Jeffress gets back on track

BY GEORGE BREMER

FLORIDA TODAY

 

In his own words, Jeremy Jeffress was back where he's "supposed to be" Thursday night -- on the pitcher's mound.

 

He flashed the vast potential that has scouts buzzing (five strikeouts), but also the inconsistency that comes with a 50-game layoff (four walks) in just 2 2/3 innings.

 

"Four years from now," Brevard County Manatees pitching coach Fred Dabney said, "I guarantee he won't remember this outing."

 

That's not entirely true. There are reasons for Jeffress to hang on to this start.

 

Ranked as the 43rd best prospect in all of baseball by a survey of 20 scouts on minorleaguebaseball.com -- a list that includes young major-league stars Evan Longoria, Joba Chamberlain and Jacoby Ellsbury -- Jeffress' fast track to the majors was derailed last season when he was suspended under baseball's drug policy because of marijuana.

 

He received a $1.55 million signing bonus from the Milwaukee Brewers after they selected him with the 16th overall pick in the 2006 draft, and was 9-5 with a 3.13 ERA last season for the low-A West Virginia Power before the suspension.

 

His fastball touched 100 mph, and his name began to be mentioned alongside recent Brewers farmhands Yovani Gallardo and Manny Parra.

 

But while Gallardo and Parra were helping the Brewers to a second-place finish in the National League Central last fall, Jeffress was preparing to enter rehab.

 

"Baseball is a game I love. This is what I want to do for a living," Jeffress told the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel in February. "I had a problem. I've been to rehab to get it straight. I'm not ashamed that I've been in rehab. I went there to get help. It's something that helped me."

 

He echoed those sentiments in the coaches' office underneath Space Coast Stadium after allowing five earned runs in his Brevard County debut.

 

"Just knowing stuff that looks great and fun is not always good for you," Jeffress said of what he learned during his suspension. "I just have to make decisions that are best for me, and that's what I'm learning to do."

 

Coincidentally, Jeffress' first Manatees start came against the Jupiter Hammerheads and Jeff Allison -- a pitcher with a much darker history of legal problems and substance abuse.

 

The Florida Marlins' top draft pick in 2003, Allison is serving three years probation after pleading guilty to four felonies and four misdemeanors stemming from an October arrest in Greensboro, N.C. The charges included heroin possession and two counts of possessing a stolen vehicle.

 

"This is it," Allison, a native of Peabody, Mass., told the Boston Globe during spring training in Jupiter. "It's time to grow up, and that's how they (the Marlins) put it. It was plain and simple: 'You're a grown man. If you want to play baseball, then do your thing.' "

 

Allison is 2-4 with a 2.47 ERA for Jupiter this season, and he allowed just two earned runs in five innings against the Manatees.

 

Former Tampa Bay Rays No. 1 overall selection Josh Hamilton would seem to provide inspiration for any player struggling with drug problems.

 

Substance abuse forced him out of the game entirely from 2003-05, and he played just 15 minor-league games in 2006. But Hamilton got clean and made a triumphant major-league debut with the Cincinnati Reds last year.

 

This year, he's hitting .314 with 10 homers and a major-league high 49 RBIs for the Texas Rangers.

 

Jeffress' troubles pale to those of Allison and Hamilton. And he rejects comparisons to any player, choosing instead to blaze his own trail.

 

"I'm just trying to play my game," Jeffress said.

 

That game provides plenty of reason for optimism.

 

Jeffress toiled at the Brewers' spring-training complex in Arizona while he served out the remainder of his suspension. He flew into Brevard County on Sunday and hadn't pitched in a live game in months.

 

Still, his fastball reached 98 mph in the second inning, and he said his arm felt good.

 

"The greatest thing in the world," Jeffress said of returning to the mound. "It felt good just to be back on the team."

 

The day began with Jeffress' mother, Yolanda, dazzling the crowd with a stirring rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner."

 

"Amazing," Jeffress said of his mother's performance. "I love hearing her sing."

 

The support of his family is important to Jeffress. They've followed him on each stop of his career, and his brother and girlfriend were also in attendance Thursday night.

 

That family support should serve him well.

 

"He has a good, strong family background," Dabney said. "That's a positive. They're out here supporting him."

 

For her part, Yolanda Jeffress believes her son's troubles are behind him.

 

"He's come a long way," she said. "He's got his stuff together now, and he's going to do a great job here."

 

Funny how that word -- stuff -- continues to come up around Jeffress. On the mound, he has the kind of stuff that can drive him to the upper echelon of the major leagues.

 

"He has electrifying stuff," Dabney said. "No. 1, No. 2 starter stuff in the big leagues."

 

Dabney's objective now is to get Jeffress to trust that stuff. He felt Jeffress wasn't throwing every pitch with conviction Thursday, and notched it up to the adjustments every player must make when they move up a level.

 

Jeffress said he was a little nervous, maybe too anxious, and he tried to do too much.

 

But he's clearly comfortable in his skin. A man with his eyes turned once again toward what appears to be a very bright future.

 

Asked what advice he'd give to the young players who will be drafted next month at Walt Disney's Wide World of Sports complex, Jeffress' answer was revealing.

 

"Just play the game you love," he said. "Don't try to impress anybody but yourself."

 

Brevard County's Jeremy Jeffress pitches during his 2008 debut Thursday at Space Coast Stadium in Viera. (Photo by Heather Bremer, FLORIDA TODAY)

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[Mass Haas]

Yes, I know Omar Aguilar is a "Star" now, but this feature focuses on his work with the Manatees --

 

Link while active, text follows:

 

Manatees closer gets the call to Double A

BY JIM CAWLEY, FLORIDA TODAY

 

Enjoying their first day off in more than two weeks, Brevard County Manatees' teammates and roommates Omar Aguilar and Kenny Holmberg were playing video games in their Cocoa Beach townhouse Tuesday afternoon when Holmberg's cell phone rang.

 

On the line was Manatees manager Mike Guerrero, who needed to speak with Aguilar.

 

"I gave the phone to Omar, and the next thing you know we had to come up here (Space Coast Stadium) and get his baseball stuff," Holmberg said. "And this morning, I took him to the airport."

 

Aguilar, Brevard County's dominant closer, had gotten a call up to the Milwaukee Brewers' Double-A affiliate, the Huntsville Stars.

 

"I was in a little bit of shock," Aguilar said while riding the bus with his new team to Wednesday's game at the Mobile BayBears. "I was just happy that all the hard work I put in paid off. I'm glad I'm up here to help the team out."

 

Aguilar made an instant impact in his first season with the Manatees. The 6-foot, 220-pound right-hander recorded a Florida State League-leading 13 saves while posting a miniscule 0.35 earned-run average.

 

He appeared in 19 games, striking out 25 and walking 10 in 25 2/3 innings. Opponents hit just .155 of the 23-year-old, who featured a 3-0 record.

 

Aguilar allowed just one earned run all season.

 

"First and foremost, he is aggressive. And when you have a fastball in the mid-90s and you're aggressive with it and you keep it down, you're going to have success," Manatees pitching coach Fred Dabney said. "Guys don't get to see that too often."

 

Aguilar's arsenal also includes a slider and changeup, secondary pitches he developed this season. His ability to use those pitches effectively, field his position and bring the right attitude to the mound all factored into his promotion, according to Dabney.

 

"Coming in late in the game -- it's not for everybody," Dabney said. "Some guys aren't big fans of taking the ball when it's crunch time. It is a pressure job. But with his personality . . . he doesn't let things bother him and goes right at 'em."

 

While playing for Guerrero for the South Atlantic League's West Virginia Power last season, Aguilar led the team with 42 appearances and was tied for the team lead in saves with nine.

 

"I'm happy for him," Guerrero said. "From Double-A, you can get called up to the big leagues. He's just a step away -- just a phone call away -- from getting to the big leagues."

 

Aguilar was a 30th-round pick out of Merced Junior College (Calif.) in the 2005 First-Year Player Draft. He had Tommy John elbow surgery in Nov. 2005, and appeared in just six games for the Rookie League's Arizona Brewers in 2006.

 

A starter in college and for his first season in the Brewers' organization, Aguilar has settled in nicely as the guy who comes in to shut the door.

 

"You know you only have one inning to get the job done," Aguilar said. "But personally, I like closing. It gets me fired up. I'm definitely comfortable being a closer."

 

Mound moves

 

Aguilar's promotion marks the third pitcher this month to get the call to Huntsville. Donovan Hand, FLORIDA TODAY's Manatee of the Month in April, and Mike Jones also earned a spot on the Stars' roster.

 

"Our ultimate goal is to give guys the means of having success to get to the next level. But it's a credit to those guys," Dabney said. "I can't throw the ball for them, I can't execute the delivery for them, I can't field their position, so all the credit goes to them. You're talking about three great kids with a good work ethic who did what they needed to do to get to the next level."

 

Hand, a 22-year-old righty, was 4-2 with a 2.31 ERA in 10 games -- including nine starts -- for the Manatees. He struck out 36 and walked 10 in 58 1/3 innings.

 

Jones, 25, was 0-0 with a 4.50 ERA in eight games at Brevard County. He made six starts with Huntsville last season before being placed on the disabled list with an elbow injury on May 7. Jones also pitched for the Manatees in 2006.

 

"It's always nice to see guys going up," Guerrero said. "It's important to win, because that's for your pride and ego, but it's more important for players to get developed."

 

Brewer time

 

The Manatees' newest member -- Brent Brewer -- has the perfect name for the organization that chose him. The 20-year-old shortstop, who was called up from West Virginia on Tuesday, may one day give Bernie Brewer a run for his money.

 

"It's the same thing everywhere I go," Brewer said smiling, just hours into his first appearance at Space Coast Stadium. "It doesn't bother me at all. I think it's a good thing."

[Mass Haas]

The Manatees are preparing a press release, and I'm sorry to steal their "official" thunder, but since they gave Brewerfan these names, we hope they won't mind.

 

This is a big season for the 'Tees staff, as Space Coast Stadium hosts the Florida State League All-Star Game on Saturday, June 14th.

 

Taylor Green and Darren Ford are set to represent the Manatees. Donovan Hand and Omar Aguilar would have, but were promoted to AA.

 

As is often the case, the roster will be fluid, and we may see other Manatees on the roster by game time. Although if you review the team's YTD stats, it's tough to justify other appearances, as even Ford's is a bit forced.

[Mass Haas]

Official Brevard County Press Release:

 

Ford, Green to Represent Manatees in FSL All-Star Game

 

(Viera, FL) Centerfielder Darren Ford and third baseman Taylor Green have been selected to represent the hometown Brevard County Manatees in the 2008 Florida State League All-Star Game, which is being held at Space Coast Stadium. The game takes place June 14 at 7:30 PM (6:30 Central), and is preceded by the FSL Home Run Derby.

 

Ford, 22, hails from Vineland, New Jersey. He currently leads the Florida State League with 27 stolen bases, a total that ranks him third among all minor league players. He is hitting just .236 on the season, but is getting on base at a .330 clip due to his ability to draw walks, with 26 this season. When on base, Ford has been one of the most dangerous players in baseball, threatening to swipe a bag at any time. He tied an FSL record for steals in one game earlier in the season, with five steals against Clearwater on May 5. Ford was selected in the 18th round of the 2004 draft, and is currently in his fourth season in the Brewers' organization.

 

Green, 21, is a resident of Courtenay, British Columbia. He has continued the trend of great Manatees third basemen, following in the footsteps of reigning National League Rookie of the Year Ryan Braun of the 2006 Manatees and Mat Gamel of the 2007 Manatees. He leads the Manatees in several hitting categories, including batting average (.302), RBI (38), walks (27), slugging pct. (.440), and on-base pct. (.392). His RBI total is the third highest in the FSL. Green was selected in the 25th round of the 2005 draft, and is currently in his third season in the Brewers' organization.

 

Brevard County pitchers Donovan Hand and Omar Aguilar were also selected as All-Stars, but will not be taking place in the game due to their recent promotion to the Huntsville Stars.

[Mass Haas]

Link while active, text follows:

 

Ford, Green picked for FSL All-Star Game

BY JIM CAWLEY

FLORIDA TODAY

 

Host Brevard County will be well represented in the 2008 Florida State League All-Star Game, sending outfielder Darren Ford, infielder Taylor Green and the entire coaching staff to the June 14th event at Space Coast Stadium.

 

Pitchers Donovan Hand and Omar Aguilar also were picked to represent the Manatees, but will miss the game for a good reason -- both were recently promoted to the Double-A Huntsville Stars.

 

First-year Brevard County Manager Mike Guerrero will lead the Eastern Division team. He will be joined by Manatees staff members Fred Dabney (pitching coach) Corey Hart (hitting coach) and Tommy Craig (trainer).

 

A center fielder, Ford leads the FSL in stolen bases with 27. He is batting .236 with two homers and 16 RBIs.

 

"There are a lot of people playing this game out there," Ford said. "It's just a blessing to be able to play in this all-star game."

 

A third baseman, Green leads the team in batting (.302), RBIs (38) and slugging (.444).

 

"It's a tremendous honor and I'm really excited for it to come," Green said. "It's nice to have your whole coaching staff there and be able to play at your home field."

 

The Manatees were Eastern Division champs in 2007, losing to the Clearwater Threshers three games to one in the best-of-five championship series.

[Mass Haas]

Link while active, text follows:

 

Baron, Cain named Manatees of the Month

BY JIM CAWLEY

FLORIDA TODAY

 

Each month, FLORIDA TODAY will choose Manatees of the Month -- featuring one pitcher and one position player. May's picks are in: P Casey Baron and RF Lorenzo Cain.

 

Name: P Casey Baron

Height/weight: 6-2, 185

Age: 23

Birthplace: College Park, Md.

College: University of Maryland

May stats: Appeared in eight games, posting a 1.35 earned-run average. He allowed just two earned runs in 131/3 innings.

Quotable: "I've been able to locate the fastball pretty much whenever I want to -- knock on wood. And I'm developing more of a slider-type slurve."

 

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Name: RF Lorenzo Cain

Height/weight: 6-2, 185

Age: 22

Birthplace: Valdosta, Ga.

College: Tallahassee CC

May stats: Batted .294 with 12 extra-base hits, including nine doubles. Also stole 11 bases and slugged at a .450 clip.

Quotable: "I think I've been a lot more selective that I was the previous month. I'm driving the ball the other way -- that's been my main focus right now."

 

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Congrats to both. Baron's performances in relief flew under the radar a bit here, nice to see him get the recognition he deserves.