Arizona Fall League / Winter League Thread -- Full Brewers Details for Each Game

[Mass Haas]

The Dominican Winter League regular season has come to a close. Two of the six teams do not qualify for the playoffs. Unless we see otherwise, winter seasons have now concluded for Elian Herrera, Miguel De Los Santos, Hector Gomez, a well-traveled Jason Rogers, and Eugenio Velez.

 

The other regular seasons conclude as follows:

 

Mexican Pacific League

Regular season ends 12/30/2013

 

Puerto Rican League

Regular season ends 12/30/2013

 

Venezuelan Winter League

Regular Season ends 12/29/2013

 

We'll keep you updated on any playoff action as well.

 

The champions of the four winter leagues will compete in the Caribbean World Series, this year taking place in Venezuela in early February.

[Mass Haas]

After a few idle days for the holiday break, here's a chock-full report on Friday's Winter League action --

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

If you've been with us every day this winter, then you know that RHP Hiram Burgos has had a spectacular winter season in his native Puerto Rico. Making his final regular season start on normal four days' rest (and thus getting positioned for playoff starts for his first-place Mayaguez club next week), Burgos tossed another stellar five innings. With his club up 11-0, there was no need to go beyond five as he did in his last outing, in which he also tossed shutout ball while walking no one.

 

This start -- 5 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K

Season to date -- 11 G (eight starts), 1.40 ERA, 38.2 IP, 25 H, 8 R, 6 ER, 0 HR, 12 BB, 35 K, 0.96 WHIP

 

Just more Hiram being Hiram -- see his ranks (sortable) among PWL pitchers.

 

Santurce Bottom of the 1st

 

Jack Lopez flies out to center fielder Austin Wates.

Christian Vazquez grounds out, second baseman Dee Gordon to first baseman Kennys Vargas.

Jeff Dominguez flies out to left fielder Daniel Ortiz.

 

Santurce Bottom of the 2nd

 

Neftali Soto flies out to center fielder Austin Wates.

Jose Morales grounds out to first baseman Kennys Vargas.

Jonathan Rodriguez singles on a ground ball to third baseman Irving Falu.

Luis Rivera strikes out swinging.

 

Santurce Bottom of the 3rd

 

Angel Morales lines out to third baseman Irving Falu.

Dickie Thon doubles (1) on a fly ball to right fielder Eddie Rosario.

Jack Lopez flies out to right fielder Eddie Rosario.

Christian Vazquez strikes out swinging.

 

Santurce Bottom of the 4th

 

Jeff Dominguez singles on a fly ball to center fielder Austin Wates.

Neftali Soto lines into a double play, second baseman Dee Gordon to first baseman Kennys Vargas. Jeff Dominguez doubled off 1st.

Jose Morales grounds out, second baseman Dee Gordon to first baseman Kennys Vargas.

 

Santurce Bottom of the 5th

 

Jonathan Rodriguez strikes out swinging, catcher Martin Maldonado to first baseman Kennys Vargas.

Luis Rivera grounds out, shortstop Luis Figueroa to first baseman Kennys Vargas.

Angel Morales flies out to center fielder Austin Wates.

 

Hoping we see some quotes from Burgos or Brewer brass on his success soon from Adam or Tom (hint, hint), if not I'll reach out to Hiram myself shortly. (Wondering how closely the Mets are monitoring Burgos, hmmmm....)

 

Batterymate Martin Maldonado was 1-for-2 with a walk and HBP, run scored (OBP of .341 this winter). Maldy left the game once the rout was on, not related to the HBP. Teammate Irving Falu started at third base, moved to second, and was 1-for-4 with a walk, run, RBI, one K. Falu was caught stealing, now 6-for-10 in attempts.

 

***

 

Venezuelan Box Score

 

OK, so this is kind of a big deal as well.

 

La Guaira Bottom of the 13th

 

Frank Diaz remains in the game as the right fielder.

Rafael Ortega walks.

Miguel Gonzalez out on a sacrifice bunt, first baseman Mario Lisson to second baseman Alberto Callaspo. Rafael Ortega to 2nd.

Orangel Arenas intentionally walks Javier Herrera.

Heiker Meneses reaches on a missed catch error by first baseman Mario Lisson, assist to shortstop Renny Osuna. Rafael Ortega to 3rd. Javier Herrera to 2nd.

Jamie Romak pops out to second baseman Alberto Callaspo on the infield fly rule.

Pitching Change: Miguel De Los Santos replaces Orangel Arenas.

Carlos Sanchez walks. Rafael Ortega scores. Javier Herrera to 3rd. Heiker Meneses to 2nd.

 

Not a big deal because you walk in the game-losing run in the 13th, only batter you face. But this is progress for LHP Miguel De Los Santos, his journey was well-documented just a few posts above. That's because the Dominican native, who pitched only one inning on his native island before his club's season ended, has made his way to Venezuela. The acquisition was detailed on Venezuelan websites Friday (thank you, Google Translate), and if anybody's fluent in Spanish (hello, Sophia Minneart), De Los Santos was interviewed yesterday, I imagine this was pre-game (

).

 

So this is another step in a possible resolution for De Los Santos regarding any age/name/visa issues. It's been indicated to me directly that the Brewers are still very invested in De Los Santos, and have been all along through his shoulder surgery and rehab, so stay tuned on his front.

 

***

 

Playoff baseball, baby!

 

Dominican Box Score

 

Juan Francisco, playing first base, and teammate Eugenio Velez (RF and LF), saw their Licey team grab a 3-2 road victory in the postseason opener. Francisco was 0-for-4 (two K's), while Velez was on base thrice (1-for-2, two walks).

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

SS Hector Gomez, batting 9th, had an ugly 0-for-4 night with three K's, but his Gigantes del Cibao posted a 2-0 road victory. In the Dominican winter postseason, there are round-robin games scheduled through January 3rd, as eventually each of the four winter leagues will determine champions and Caribbean Series representatives for the first week of February.

[Mass Haas]

Getting the jump on Saturday's action, thanks to summertime in Australia --

 

Australia Box Score

 

After only allowing two runs in his first six appearances covering 7.2 innings, RHP Eric Marzec turned in his first Aussie clunker, retiring only one of seven batters as he lost a 2-0 lead for his mates (get it, mates - Australia, OK). Marzec was charged with four runs after allowing three hits and three walks (35 pitches, only 14 for strikes).

 

Perth Bottom of the 8th

 

Pitching Change: Eric Marzec replaces Joe Burns.

Matt Kennelly flies out to center fielder Justin Trapp.

Joey Wong walks.

Alex Stuart walks. Joey Wong to 2nd.

George Barber singles on a fly ball to right fielder Tyler Massey. Joey Wong to 3rd. Alex Stuart to 2nd.

Corey Adamson singles on a ground ball to shortstop Darryl George. Joey Wong scores. Alex Stuart to 3rd. George Barber to 2nd.

Tucker Nathans singles on a ground ball to first baseman Mitchell Ayres. Alex Stuart scores. George Barber to 3rd. Corey Adamson to 2nd.

Luke Hughes walks. George Barber scores. Corey Adamson to 3rd. Tucker Nathans to 2nd.

Pitching Change: Brett Zawacki replaces Eric Marzec.

Brandon Tripp out on a sacrifice fly to center fielder Justin Trapp. Corey Adamson scores.

Tim Kennelly strikes out swinging.

 

Two hits of the infield variety, but the walks were poison.

 

Get 'em next time, Eric. At least his prior off-day didn't suck.

[Mass Haas]

Saturday's Winter League action --

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Despite their new teammate Dee Gordon going 8-for-9 in two games since his arrival, Martin Maldonado and Irving Falu's club fell 7-4.

 

Maldonado went 1-for-2 (run, K), left after five innings. Falu, playing third base, was 0-for-3 (walk, sacrifice bunt, SB).

 

***

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

RHP Jose De La Torre made his 15th relief appearance of the winter, tossing two scoreless innings and getting more ground balls in a game won by his club in extra innings --

 

Carolina Top of the 9th

 

Pitching Change: Jose De La Torre replaces Miguel Mejia.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-hitter Carlos Corporan replaces Robinson Cancel.

Carlos Corporan called out on strikes.

Jobduan Morales walks.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-hitter Juan Centeno replaces Rene Garcia.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-runner Jose Castro replaces Jobduan Morales.

Juan Centeno grounds into a force out, fielded by second baseman Rey Navarro. Jose Castro out at 2nd. Juan Centeno to 1st.

Osvaldo Martinez walks. Juan Centeno to 2nd.

Mel Rojas strikes out swinging.

 

Carolina Top of the 10th

 

Enrique Hernandez grounds out, shortstop Luis Mateo to first baseman Aaron Bates.

Jesus Feliciano grounds out to first baseman Aaron Bates.

Luis Matos grounds out, second baseman Rey Navarro to first baseman Aaron Bates

 

***

 

Venezuela Box Score

 

LHP Miguel De Los Santos is having trouble finding the strike zone post-surgery layoff. In three appearances between the Dominican and Venezuela, he has walked four in a combined one inning, and he's yet to retire any of the four batters he's faced in his new home, walking three -- he had trouble in the middle of this nine-run inning here:

 

Caracas Bottom of the 5th

 

Henry Alejando Rodriguez walks.

Bobby Abreu doubles (10) on a line drive to left fielder Lew Ford. Henry Alejando Rodriguez scores.

Jesus Aguilar grounds out softly, third baseman Adonis Garcia to first baseman Mario Lisson.

Alex Gonzalez singles on a line drive to left fielder Lew Ford. Bobby Abreu scores. Alex Gonzalez to 2nd on the throw.

Pitching Change: Juan Rincon replaces Amalio Diaz.

Gregorio Petit homers (10) on a fly ball to center field. Alex Gonzalez scores.

Raul Padron walks.

Jesus Sucre singles on a line drive to center fielder Endy Chavez. Raul Padron to 2nd.

Jose Duarte singles on a soft line drive to center fielder Endy Chavez. Raul Padron to 3rd. Jesus Sucre to 2nd.

With Aharon Eggleston batting, wild pitch by Juan Rincon, Raul Padron scores. Jesus Sucre to 3rd. Jose Duarte to 2nd.

Aharon Eggleston doubles (4) on a fly ball to center fielder Endy Chavez. Jesus Sucre scores. Jose Duarte scores.

Pitching Change: Miguel De Los Santos replaces Juan Rincon.

Henry Alejando Rodriguez singles on a ground ball to center fielder Endy Chavez. Aharon Eggleston scores.

Bobby Abreu walks. Henry Alejando Rodriguez to 2nd.

Jesus Aguilar walks. Henry Alejando Rodriguez to 3rd. Bobby Abreu to 2nd.

Pitching Change: Roy Corcoran replaces Miguel De Los Santos.

Alex Gonzalez out on a sacrifice fly to right fielder Frank Diaz. Henry Alejando Rodriguez scores.

Gregorio Petit pops out to first baseman Mario Lisson in foul territory.

 

***

 

Dominican Postseason Round-Robin Box Score

 

For the victorious 2-0 Gigantes del Cibao club, shortstop Hector Gomez, batting 2nd, was 2-for-4 (run, K).

 

As for the now 1-1 Tigres del Licey squad, cleanup first baseman Juan Francisco did pull a two-run 9th inning HR that closed the score to 4-2. The home run came off former Brewer southpaw Juan Perez. It was Francisco's lone hit (1-for-3, walk, one K).

 

Francisco's teammate Eugenio Velez was 0-for-4 (two K's), although he did get credit for an outfield assist from right field to second base.

[Mass Haas]

Sunday's Winter League action --

 

Venezuelan Box Score

 

There will be makeup games played on Monday, so the Venezuela regular season ends today, not Sunday as originally noted. RHP Arcenio Leon's team, Aguilas del Zulia, did qualify for the postseason, as did LHP Miguel De Los Santos' Navegantes del Magallanes club. Other Brewers who played in Venezuela wrapped up their brief seasons long ago - 1B Hunter Morris (November 8th, twisted right knee, considered minor at the time), RHP Mike Fiers (last pitched December 7th), and RHP Johnnie Lowe (last pitched November 12th).

 

Arcenio Leon made relief appearance #24 on Sunday -- he's had a much-higher ground-ball rate this winter than he did for Huntsville in 2013, as evidenced below:

 

Margarita Bottom of the 6th

 

Pitching Change: Arcenio Leon replaces Miguel Sulbaran.

Carlos Rivero grounds out, shortstop Freddy Galvis to first baseman Ernesto Mejia.

Matt Padgett grounds out, second baseman Hernan Perez to first baseman Ernesto Mejia.

Henry Blanco singles on a ground ball to center fielder Wilmer Oberto.

Breyvic Valera singles on a ground ball to center fielder Wilmer Oberto. Henry Blanco to 3rd.

Jose Sanchez grounds out, pitcher Arcenio Leon to first baseman Ernesto Mejia.

 

***

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Despite losing their prior two games, Martin Maldonado and Irving Falu's Mayaguez club will be in the postseason - their regular season ends on Monday (today) as well.

 

Sunday Falu's quiet winter continued (0-for-4), but Maldonado has his OPS up to .706 after a slow start, here he singled twice and walked, driving in his team's only two runs. Three bases were stolen against Maldy (that's rare), two of them coming on a double steal -- always thought defensive statistics should indicate that somehow.

 

***

 

Dominican Postseason Round Robin Boxscore

 

Both clubs moved to 2-1 records after Licey (Juan Francisco, Eugenio Velez) shutout Cibao (Hector Gomez).

 

Francisco was 0-for-4 as the designated hitter (one K), Velez was 2-for-3 with a walk and a caught stealing with stints in both right and left field, and Gomez, batting second and playing shortstop, was 0-for-3 with a walk.

 

***

 

Jumping ahead to Monday action (already) in Australia --

 

Australia Box Score

 

RHP Eric Marzec's Melbourne team lost a wild 12-11, ten-inning game. Marzec was charged with a blown save after two innings of work, but the only run he allowed was unearned --

 

Perth Bottom of the 7th

 

Pitching Change: Eric Marzec replaces Freddy Flores.

Matt Dixon called out on strikes.

George Barber strikes out swinging.

Corey Adamson singles on a ground ball to right fielder Tyler Massey.

Tucker Nathans reaches on a fielding error by left fielder Jarryd Rogers. Corey Adamson scores. Tucker Nathans to 2nd.

With Luke Hughes batting, Tucker Nathans steals (9) 3rd base.

Luke Hughes strikes out swinging.

 

Perth Bottom of the 8th

 

Brandon Tripp doubles (11) on a fly ball to right fielder Tyler Massey. Brandon Tripp out at 3rd, left fielder Jarryd Rogers to second baseman Darryl George to third baseman Josh Davies.

Tim Kennelly pops out to shortstop Brad Harman.

Matt Kennelly grounds out, shortstop Brad Harman to first baseman Jared Schlehuber.

[Mass Haas]

Monday's Winter League action --

 

Dominican Box Score

 

SS Hector Gomez' club managed only two hits and Gomez was 0-for-3, but it was this that ruined his night, breaking up a scoreless game in an eventual 2-0 loss:

 

Escogido Bottom of the 7th

 

Jorge Polanco flies out softly to center fielder Francisco Peguero.

Erick Almonte called out on strikes.

Miguel Olivo singles on a ground ball to center fielder Francisco Peguero.

With Pedro Florimon batting, Miguel Olivo steals (1) 2nd base.

Pedro Florimon reaches on a throwing error by shortstop Hector Gomez. Miguel Olivo scores. Pedro Florimon to 2nd.

Jose Constanza doubles (1) on a sharp ground ball to left fielder Marcell Ozuna. Pedro Florimon scores.

Pitching Change: Juan Perez replaces Jeurys Familia.

Gregory Polanco flies out sharply to center fielder Francisco Peguero.

 

Gomez' Gigantes team now 2-2 in round-robin postseason play.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

All four clubs are 2-2 in the D.R. pool play, as Juan Francisco and Eugenio Velez's Licey team was crushed, 14-3.

 

Francisco, the DH, did homer again, 1-for-3 (one K). It came off a RHP, listed as a line drive to center field. Velez played left field (one error), and was 0-for-3.

 

***

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

It's a competitive five-team league (standings), aa the Mayaguez club of Martin Maldonado and Irving Falu fell into a first-place tie at season-end with a 3rd consecutive loss.

 

Maldonado was 0-for-3 (one K, one error, two stolen bases against), and Falu, playing third base, was 1-for4 (run).

[Mass Haas]

New Year's Day was an off day in the Caribbean, but they've already played the January 2nd game in Australia.

 

Australia Box Score

 

RHP Eric Marzec can't complain about lack of use. He fanned two in one inning of relief here, but also surrendered a long ball. His club was down 4-0 after his 7th inning appearance, but rallied for a 5-4 win, Marzec with a no-decision.

 

Perth Top of the 7th

 

Pitching Change: Eric Marzec replaces Trevor Holder.

Allan de San Miguel grounds out, second baseman Darryl George to first baseman Jared Schlehuber.

Alex Stuart strikes out swinging.

George Barber homers (2) on a fly ball to left field.

Tucker Nathans called out on strikes.

[Mass Haas]

More from Thursday's Winter League action --

 

Dominican Box Score

 

The Licey club of Juan Francisco and Eugenio Velez cruised to a 7-1 win to move to a 3-2 record in postseason round-robin play.

 

Juan Francisco doubles (1) on a sharp ground ball to right fielder Ricardo Nanita. Emilio Bonifacio scores. Eugenio Velez scores.

 

That 5th inning two-run double came off a LHP, so there's that. Francisco also walked and was hit by a pitch (1-for-3, one K), serving again as the cleanup designated hitter.

 

Velez, batting 2nd and playing left field, was 1-for-4 and added a sacrifice bunt. He scored twice.

 

When you click on these winter league player page links going forward (all leagues), you won't see any of the playoff winter numbers reflected.

[Mass Haas]

Jason Rogers just can't get enough baseball in 2013-2014.

 

Between Huntsville, the Arizona Fall League and a 13-game stint in the Dominican Winter League with the Toros del Este club, Rogers has appeared in 164 games since April's Opening Day. We thought Rogers' season finally ended when Este did not qualify for the DWL postseason.

 

Well, apparently, the Leones del Escogido team in the Dominican, currently tied for first place in round-robin play at 3-2, needed a first baseman, because Rogers is starting for Escogido Friday night. Love those Dominican roster rules.

 

In that game, Rogers is going up against his first base counterpart for Licey (also 3-2), Juan Francisco. Francisco hit his third home run in six postseason games, a two-run shot, in the 1st.

 

***

 

Look for our usual daily full winter league update post (and tweet - follow here) early in the AM.

[Mass Haas]

Friday's Winter Leage action --

 

Dominican Box Score

 

Despite a perfect night for 1B Juan Francisco (on base all four times up), his Licey club lost a tough 4-3 contest.

 

For the winners, Jason Rogers was 1-for-3.

 

Francisco singled and walked twice in addition to his HR noted above. ESPN's Enrique Rojas called him "Prince" Francisco in a tweet -- hopefully not an indication of his winter eating habits, although we know Juan's a big guy regardless...

 

LF Eugenio Velez was 0-for-4 in the game.

 

How serious are these winter postseason games? Six umpires!

 

***

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

It was a 4-3 11-inning win in the postseason opener for Mayaguez, as Irving Falu, playing third base, scored a run (0-for-2, three walks, sacrifice bunt, one error). Martin Maldonado is making a long string of consecutive starts behind the plate, but with the holidays, there have been idle days. Although Maldy was 0-for-4 (one K), he was HBP (nearing double-digits in that category this winter), and no one dared run against him.

 

For the losing Caguas club, 40-man roster RHP Jose De La Torre tossed 1.2 scoreless, aided by his teammate stranding two of his baserunners --

 

Mayaguez Top of the 8th

 

Pitching Change: Jose De La Torre replaces Miguel Mejia.

Kennys Vargas grounds out to first baseman Aaron Bates.

Luis Figueroa pops out to shortstop Luis Mateo.

Martin Maldonado grounds out, shortstop Luis Mateo to first baseman Aaron Bates.

 

Mayaguez Top of the 9th

 

Daniel Ortiz strikes out swinging.

Luis Montanez grounds out, third baseman Andy Gonzalez to first baseman Aaron Bates.

Dee Gordon singles on a soft line drive to left fielder Miguel Abreu.

Irving Falu walks. Dee Gordon to 2nd.

Pitching Change: Joe Torres replaces Jose De La Torre.

With Eddie Rosario batting, wild pitch by Joe Torres, Dee Gordon to 3rd. Irving Falu to 2nd.

Eddie Rosario pops out to third baseman Andy Gonzalez in foul territory.

 

Pitching Change: Joe Torres replaces Jose De La Torre.

 

That's just fun with names...

[Mass Haas]

Saturday's Winter League action -- everyone is in postseason play now

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Mayaguez scored three in the bottom of the 8th of a 4-3 win to make Martin Maldonado and Irving Falu happy, as the team has won its first two postseason games.

 

Falu was 0-for-3, contributed a sacrifice bunt, and had an error at third base; Maldonado was 1-for-2 with a walk and no one ran against him. He also did this:

 

Mayaguez Bottom of the 2nd

 

Kennys Vargas homers (1) on a fly ball to center field.

Luis Figueroa grounds out, second baseman Ivan De Jesus to first baseman Jeff Dominguez.

Martin Maldonado walks.

With Daniel Ortiz batting, Martin Maldonado steals (1) 2nd base.

Daniel Ortiz grounds out to first baseman Jeff Dominguez. Martin Maldonado to 3rd.

Luis Montanez flies out to right fielder Henry Ramos.

 

Twins’ Rosario Suspended For Positive Test

 

On the same day that was announced, Rosario batted third for Mayaguez.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

SS Hector Gomez with only one hit, but it was huge (and off old friend LHP Chris Cody) to help his team to a 4-3 win (is every game in the Caribbean 4-3?).

 

Gigantes Top of the 2nd

 

Josh Whitesell singles on a sharp ground ball to pitcher Chris Cody. Josh Whitesell advances to 2nd, on a throwing error by pitcher Chris Cody.

Moises Sierra reaches on a fielder's choice out, pitcher Chris Cody to shortstop Juan Diaz to third baseman Andy Marte. Josh Whitesell out at 3rd. Moises Sierra to 2nd on the throw.

Marcell Ozuna grounds out, shortstop Juan Diaz to first baseman Joey Terdoslavich. Moises Sierra to 3rd.

Maikel Franco singles on a ground ball to center fielder Juan Perez. Moises Sierra scores.

Guillermo Rodriguez reaches on a fielding error by third baseman Andy Marte. Maikel Franco to 2nd.

Hector Gomez homers (1) on a fly ball to left field. Maikel Franco scores. Guillermo Rodriguez scores.

Leury Garcia strikes out swinging.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

1B Jason Rogers was 0-for-4 but did drive in a run with a sacrifice fly in his team's 8-3 win.

 

For the losing Licey squad, Juan Francisco committed a throwing error at first base, and was 0-for-3 (walk, run scored). LF Eugenio Velez was 1-for-4 (run, K).

 

These Dominican round robin games continue all the way through the 17th before a final championship pair begins play on the 19th, so we'll continue to mainly just focus on individual stats until that time (for the most part).

 

***

 

Blast from the past --

 

Several notes lately on how RHP Jeff Bennett was the last Brewers' Rule 5 pick to stick (2004). Now 33, he's pitching in the Mexican Winter League after also pitching in Mexico last summer. Looks like he's finally bending his brim in that link, unlike then.

[Mass Haas]

Early jump on Sunday's games from Down Under --

 

Australian Box Score

 

RHP Eric Marzec's Melbourne team allowed double-digit runs for a second consecutive day, so Marzec was needed for a generic 9th inning --

 

Perth Top of the 9th

 

Pitching Change: Eric Marzec replaces Trevor Holder.

Jesse Barron grounds out, shortstop Brad Harman to first baseman Ryan Casteel.

Alex Stuart grounds out to first baseman Ryan Casteel.

George Barber grounds out, second baseman Darryl George to first baseman Ryan Casteel.

 

And then, down 11-7 in the bottom of the 9th, this all happened:

 

Melbourne Bottom of the 9th

 

Pitching Change: Brendan Wise replaces Warwick Saupold.

Josh Davies singles on a line drive to center fielder George Barber.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-runner Ryan Dale replaces Josh Davies.

With Darryl George batting, Ryan Dale advances to 2nd on a balk.

Darryl George grounds out, third baseman Luke Hughes to first baseman Matt Kennelly.

Scott Wearne reaches on a fielding error by first baseman Matt Kennelly. Ryan Dale to 3rd.

Tyler Massey walks. Scott Wearne to 2nd.

Brad Harman singles on a ground ball to left fielder Brandon Tripp. Ryan Dale scores. Scott Wearne to 3rd. Tyler Massey to 2nd.

Jared Schlehuber singles on a ground ball to right fielder Jesse Barron. Scott Wearne scores. Tyler Massey to 3rd. Brad Harman to 2nd.

Pitching Change: Cameron Lamb replaces Brendan Wise.

Ryan Casteel grounds into a force out, shortstop Joey Wong to second baseman Alex Stuart. Tyler Massey scores. Brad Harman scores. Jared Schlehuber out at 2nd. Ryan Casteel advances to 1st, on a throwing error by second baseman Alex Stuart.

Justin Trapp grounds into a force out, third baseman Luke Hughes to second baseman Alex Stuart. Ryan Casteel out at 2nd.

 

So now it's 11-11, and I'm live-tweeting this.

 

(Marzec's back out for the 10th...)

[Mass Haas]

Darn...

 

Perth Top of the 10th

 

Defensive Substitution: Ben Leslie replaces Ryan Dale, batting 7th, playing left field.

Joey Wong strikes out swinging.

Tim Kennelly singles on a line drive to center fielder Justin Trapp.

Brandon Tripp homers (7) on a fly ball to left field. Tim Kennelly scores.

Luke Hughes strikes out swinging.

Matt Kennelly grounds out, third baseman Jared Schlehuber to first baseman Ryan Casteel.

 

On to the bottom of the 10th.

 

EDIT:

 

Melbourne Bottom of the 10th

 

Justin Huber lines out to shortstop Joey Wong.

Ben Leslie grounds out, third baseman Luke Hughes to first baseman Matt Kennelly.

Darryl George strikes out swinging.

 

Marzec saddled with an "L".

[Mass Haas]

Funny -- Maldy is a Twitter follower and with a quick acknowlegement here.

[Mass Haas]

As per this Tom Haudricourt tweet --

 

"Licey Tigers announce @Brewers coach Mike Guerrero stepped down as manager during DR playoffs due to "health and family matters."

 

Here's a translated page on the Licey site.

[Mass Haas]

About that Hector Gomez three-run HR Saturday, if that's Gomez as we believe (# 38), he's an impressive physical specimen at 6'2". 185 (listed).

 

Tweet from the Dominican League included this photo

 

 

Gomez played for Toros in the DWL regular season, but finds himself on the Gigantes squad now.

[Mass Haas]

As per this Tom Haudricourt tweet --

 

"Licey Tigers announce @Brewers coach Mike Guerrero stepped down as manager during DR playoffs due to "health and family matters."

 

Here's a translated page on the Licey site.

 

TH followed up --

 

"I am told by #Brewers asst GM Gord Ash that manager Mike Guerrero left Licey club in DR with flu. Nothing serious."

[Mass Haas]

Sunday's Winter League action --

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Mayaguez moves to 3-0 in postseason play, scoring the go-ahead run in the top of the 9th in a 3-2 win.

 

3B Irving Falu was 3-for-5 (one K); Martin Maldonado was 0-for-5 but no one ran against him.

 

***

 

Venezuela Box Score

 

RHP Arcenio Leon was charged with a blown save, although the run he allowed was unearned --

 

Caribes Top of the 6th

 

Pitching Change: Jose Guanchez replaces Roy Merritt.

Cory Aldridge strikes out swinging.

Hector Gimenez singles on a ground ball to center fielder Ender Inciarte.

Alexi Amarista singles on a ground ball to center fielder Ender Inciarte. Hector Gimenez to 2nd.

Pitching Change: Arcenio Leon replaces Jose Guanchez.

Eduardo Escobar grounds into a double play, shortstop Freddy Galvis to first baseman Ernesto Mejia. Alexi Amarista out at 2nd.

 

Caribes Top of the 7th

 

Gustavo Molina reaches on a fielding error by third baseman Jose Flores.

Niuman Romero out on a sacrifice bunt, pitcher Arcenio Leon to second baseman Hernan Perez. Gustavo Molina to 2nd.

Gorkys Hernandez strikes out swinging.

Oscar Salazar singles on a ground ball to left fielder Jose Pirela. Gustavo Molina to 3rd.

With Jose Castillo batting, wild pitch by Arcenio Leon, Gustavo Molina scores. Oscar Salazar to 2nd.

Jose Castillo strikes out swinging.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

1B Jason Rogers' Escogido club won 4-2 in 11 innings to move to a strong 6-2 record in pool play. Before exiting for a pinch-runner, Rogers was 1-for-3 with a walk (one K).

 

In the other dugout, SS Hector Gomez singled in four at-bats (one K), but committed an error (a recurring theme all winter, both at short and third).

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

Licey Bottom of the 6th

 

Anderson Hernandez flies out to right fielder Ricardo Nanita.

Erick Aybar walks.

Juan Francisco homers (4) on a fly ball to left field. Erick Aybar scores.

 

That's Francisco's 4th postseason HR in just eight games (he only hit three in 40 regular season winter games). He also singled as part of a 2-for-4 night in his team's 3-1 win.

 

LF Eugenio Velez was 0-for-3, he did steal a base, but was also pinch-hit for late in the game.

[Mass Haas]

Pitcher on the Francisco HR looks like he's in shape...

 

[Mass Haas]

Monday's Winter League action --

 

Dominican Box Score

 

The two Dominican games were actually Monday afternoon affairs. Licey won 7-3 to move to 5-4 in round robin play. First baseman Juan Francisco was 0-for-3 (HBP, one K), and LF Eugenio Velez was 0-for-4 (RBI, caught stealing).

 

For the losing Escogido club (still leading at 6-3 in the round-robin), 1B Jason Rogers was 1-for-4 (double, two K).

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

SS Hector Gomez' club is in trouble, now 3-6. Gomez was 0-for-3 with two K's before being pinch-hit for in the 9th inning of a 5-2 loss.

 

***

 

Venezuela Box Score

 

RHP Arcenio Leon entered a tough situation and was charged with a blown save when an inherited runner scored on a ground ball that made it to left field.

 

Caribes Top of the 8th

 

Cory Aldridge grounds out, shortstop Freddy Galvis to first baseman Ernesto Mejia.

Hector Gimenez singles on a ground ball to center fielder Ender Inciarte.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-runner Carlos Duran replaces Hector Gimenez.

Alexi Amarista singles on a ground ball to center fielder Ender Inciarte. Carlos Duran to 2nd.

Pitching Change: Arcenio Leon replaces Yeiper Castillo.

Eduardo Escobar singles on a ground ball to left fielder Jose Pirela. Carlos Duran scores. Alexi Amarista to 2nd.

Gustavo Molina reaches on a fielding error by third baseman Ali Castillo. Alexi Amarista to 3rd. Eduardo Escobar to 2nd.

Niuman Romero reaches on a force attempt, fielding error by third baseman Ali Castillo. Alexi Amarista scores. Eduardo Escobar to 3rd. Gustavo Molina to 2nd.

Gorkys Hernandez flies out to center fielder Ender Inciarte.

Oscar Salazar flies out to center fielder Ender Inciarte.

[Mass Haas]

Tuesday's Winter League action --

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Caguas defeated Mayaguez, 3-1. It was the first loss for Mayaguez in the postseason round robin, now 3-1. Caguas moves to 2-2. Player info --

 

Caguas:

 

Kudos to 21-year-old SS Yadiel Rivera, who had only seven regular season winter AB's, but got the start here. Batting 9th for his hometown team, Rivera was 2-for-3 (double, single, walk), it'd be cool to see this net him additional playing time.

 

RHP Jose De La Torre tossed a scoreless inning for a hold --

 

Mayaguez Bottom of the 8th

 

Pitching Change: Jose De La Torre replaces Miguel Mejia.

Luis Figueroa grounds out, pitcher Jose De La Torre to first baseman Neftali Soto.

Randy Ruiz singles on a line drive to left fielder Miguel Abreu.

Kennys Vargas grounds into a double play, pitcher Jose De La Torre to shortstop Yadiel Rivera to first baseman Neftali Soto. Randy Ruiz out at 2nd.

 

My goodness, De La Torre's ground ball rate consistency is really something...

 

By the way, Brewerfan longtimers will recognize the winning pitcher, LHP Efrain Nieves, the 2007 7th round Brewer draft pick, now in the Blue Jays' system, still just 24 years old.

 

Mayaguez:

 

Irving Falu, playing third base, was 1-for-5 with a stolen base.

 

Martin Maldonado remains the catching stalwart (no stolen base attempts), 0-for-2 with a walk and yet another HBP. Maldonado really has added the hit-by-pitch to his ofensive arsenal this offseason. But after a stolen base earlier in the week, Maldy was caught being a little frisky here --

 

Mayaguez Bottom of the 2nd

 

Martin Maldonado walks.

Eddie Rosario flies out to right fielder Juan Silva.

With Austin Wates batting, Martin Maldonado caught stealing 2nd base, catcher Ramon Castro to shortstop Yadiel Rivera to first baseman Neftali Soto.

Austin Wates called out on strikes.

[Mass Haas]

Wednesday's Winter League action --

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Mayaguez (4-1) defeated Caguas (2-3) by a 3-0 score. As usual with these two teams, several Brewer connections --

 

3B Irving Falu was 1-for-4, his double drove in two insurance runs in the 8th.

 

Mayaguez Top of the 8th

 

Pitching Change: Michael O'Connor replaces Shaun Garceau.

Daniel Ortiz walks.

Luis Montanez strikes out swinging.

Dee Gordon reaches on a fielding error by second baseman Rey Navarro. Daniel Ortiz to 2nd.

Irving Falu doubles (1) on a line drive to left fielder Miguel Abreu. Daniel Ortiz scores. Dee Gordon scores.

Eddie Rosario walks.

Pitching Change: Jose De La Torre replaces Michael O'Connor.

With Randy Ruiz batting, wild pitch by Jose De La Torre, Irving Falu to 3rd.

Randy Ruiz reaches on a fielder's choice out, second baseman Rey Navarro to catcher Ramon Castro. Irving Falu out at home. Eddie Rosario to 2nd.

Kennys Vargas grounds out to first baseman Neftali Soto

 

You'll see above that RHP Jose De La Torre did a nice job stranding two inherited runners.

 

Mayaguez catcher Martin Maldonado was 1-for-3 (one K), but was hit by a pitch yet again. Maldonado must have made some sort of adjustment in his stance/approach, the HBP frequency is just much more than a coincidence at this point. Maldy did make one throwing error, and saw one stolen base against.

 

Caguas SS Yadiel Rivera did get another start, but was 0-for-3 (one K).

 

***

 

Venezuela Box Score

 

The Zulia club of RHP Arcenio Leon fell to 1-4 in the postseason, losing a 5 hour, 24-minute, 12-inning, 8-7 game. Leon was charged with his third blown save of the round robin, but once again there was some bad luck as he almost escaped a bases-loaded, none out jam --

 

La Guaira Bottom of the 7th

 

Carlos Sanchez hit by pitch.

Cesar Suarez singles on a ground ball to center fielder Ender Inciarte. Carlos Sanchez to 3rd.

Pitching Change: Sergio Espinosa replaces Edwin Quirarte.

Joe Thurston hit by pitch. Cesar Suarez to 2nd.

Pitching Change: Arcenio Leon replaces Sergio Espinosa.

Alex Cabrera strikes out swinging.

Rafael Alvarez called out on strikes.

With Rene Reyes batting, passed ball by Sandy Leon, Carlos Sanchez scores. Cesar Suarez to 3rd. Joe Thurston to 2nd.

Arcenio Leon intentionally walks Rene Reyes.

C. J. Retherford singles on a ground ball to left fielder Jose Pirela. Cesar Suarez scores. Joe Thurston scores. Rene Reyes to 3rd. Retherford to 2nd on the throw.

Heiker Meneses grounds out, second baseman Luis Maza to first baseman Ernesto Mejia

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

Licey falls to 5-5 in the postseason after this 3-0 loss.

 

Cleanup first baseman Juan Francisco doubled in four at-bats.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

First baseman Jason Rogers' Escogido club is looking good at 7-3 with their 9-3 win.

 

Rogers was 0-for-3 (two K's), but knocked in a run with a sacrifice fly.

 

***

 

Australian Box Score (Thursday)

 

RHP Eric Marzec's Melbourne team lost 2-0, Marzec tossed a perfect inning to keep it close --

 

Adelaide Bottom of the 8th

 

Pitching Change: Eric Marzec replaces Joe Burns.

Brock Hebert strikes out swinging.

Jeremy Cresswell strikes out swinging.

Joe Sclafani pops out to third baseman Ryan Dale in foul territory.

[Mass Haas]

Thursday's Winter League action --

 

Dominican Box Score

 

In the battle of dueling first basemen, Jason Rogers' club again got the best of Juan Francisco's, this time by a 3-2 score.

 

Both contributed as Rogers singled, walked and scored two runs (1-for-3, two K's), and Francisco singled twice, walked, and drove in a run (2-for-4).

 

Also, Francisco's teammate LF Eugenio Velez returned to the lineup and was 1-for-4 with a walk.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

SS Hector Gomez' Gigantes team is now 5-6 in round robin, tied with Francisco/Velez' Licey team at 5-6 for 2nd place. Gomez was 0-for-3 (walk, run, one K).

[Mass Haas]

RHP Hiram Burgos, who posted a spectacular 1.40 ERA in 38.2 winter innings in Puerto Rico (only 25 hits allowed, 35-to-12 K-to-BB), confirmed for me that he is done for the winter.

 

Next stop is spring training, much to the likely dismay of his Mayaguez club.

 

It would not be unusual if the Brewers strongly suggested or even insisted that Burgos be idle at this point, especially coming off a season cut short by a shoulder impingement, in order to save innings for the 2014 regular season in Milwaukee and/or Nashville. I did not push Burgos to confirm on that aspect, his simple "yes, I'm done" says enough for now.

[And That]

And it's not much of a break for Burgos anyway. Players are already starting to trickle into Maryvale, and pitchers have to report in 5 weeks.