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

[torts]

how many innings did he pitch in the world classic? he pitched 29 1/3 before hitting the DL, another 36 2/3 in MiLB after recovering, and now 38 2/3 in winter league. I agree he should probably just lay low until mid/late feb, thats a fairly healthy amount of innings considering his injury

[JohnBriggs12]

how many innings did he pitch in the world classic? he pitched 29 1/3 before hitting the DL, another 36 2/3 in MiLB after recovering, and now 38 2/3 in winter league. I agree he should probably just lay low until mid/late feb, thats a fairly healthy amount of innings considering his injury

 

Burgos pitched 13 innings in 3 WBC appearances with a dazzling 0.69 ERA. Puerto Rico got all the way to the finals so they were high stress situations in front of big crowds.

 

It will be interesting to see if they want him to start in Nashville or whether he's used in a relief role in Milwaukee.

[Mass Haas]

Friday's Winter League action --

 

Dominican Box Score

 

Licey wins 4-1 and moves to 6-6 and 2nd place in the round-robin (top two teams meet in the finals). Six games still remain, though.

 

Juan Francisco, playing first base, singled in four trips and scored a run (one K).

 

RHP Alfredo Figaro retired both men he faced --

 

Gigantes Top of the 7th

 

Pitching Change: Andrew Sisco replaces Guillermo Mota.

Josh Whitesell flies out to left fielder Felix Perez.

Pitching Change: Alfredo Figaro replaces Andrew Sisco.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-hitter Ray Olmedo replaces Juan Silverio.

Ray Olmedo flies out to center fielder Emilio Bonifacio.

Guillermo Rodriguez flies out to right fielder Jamie Romak.

 

For the Cibao club (5-7), SS Hector Gomez was 1-for-3 (one K), but this looks like a baserunning blunder --

 

Gigantes Top of the 3rd

 

Hector Gomez singles on a line drive to right fielder Jamie Romak.

Leury Garcia flies into a double play, left fielder Felix Perez to second baseman Anderson Hernandez. Hector Gomez out at 2nd.

Alexi Casilla singles on a ground ball to shortstop Erick Aybar.

Francisco Peguero called out on strikes.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

1B Jason Rogers' Escogido club (8-4) lost 4-3, as Rogers was 0-for-3 with a walk.

 

***

 

In Puerto Rico also, six games remain before the round-robin concludes.

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Caguas (3-3) scored two runs in the bottom of the 9th for a 4-3 win, former Brewer farmhand Andy Gonzalez the game-winning bases-loaded walk. Pinch-runner Yadiel Rivera scored the game-tying run.

 

Also for the winners, RHP Jose De La Torre pitched out of 8th inning trouble, was charged with a 9th inning run, but his team bailed him out late --

 

Carolina Top of the 8th

 

Pitching Change: Jose De La Torre replaces Miguel Mejia.

Osvaldo Martinez grounds out, third baseman Andy Gonzalez to first baseman Neftali Soto.

Robinson Cancel walks.

Luis Matos singles on a ground ball to second baseman Rey Navarro. Robinson Cancel to 3rd. Luis Matos to 2nd on the throw.

Jose De La Torre intentionally walks Jobduan Morales.

Rene Garcia grounds into a force out, third baseman Andy Gonzalez to catcher Ramon Castro. Robinson Cancel out at home. Luis Matos to 3rd. Jobduan Morales to 2nd. Rene Garcia to 1st.

Jesus Feliciano flies out to left fielder Edgardo Baez.

 

Carolina Top of the 9th

 

Jose Castro walks.

Ruben Gotay grounds out, second baseman Rey Navarro to first baseman Neftali Soto. Jose Castro to 2nd.

Pitching Change: Andres Santiago replaces Jose De La Torre.

Anthony Garcia walks.

Osvaldo Martinez walks. Jose Castro to 3rd. Anthony Garcia to 2nd.

Robinson Cancel singles on a ground ball to first baseman Neftali Soto. Jose Castro scores. Anthony Garcia to 3rd. Osvaldo Martinez to 2nd.

Luis Matos grounds into a force out, third baseman Andy Gonzalez to catcher Ramon Castro. Anthony Garcia out at home. Osvaldo Martinez to 3rd. Robinson Cancel to 2nd. Luis Matos to 1st.

Jobduan Morales strikes out swinging.

 

***

 

Saved the best for last today:

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Wow, what a 4-3, 12-inning win for Mayaguez, now 5-1.

 

Mayaguez trailed 3-0 heading to the 9th --

 

Mayaguez Top of the 9th

 

Pitching Change: Fernando Cabrera replaces Pedro Feliciano.

Randy Ruiz walks.

Kennys Vargas walks. Randy Ruiz to 2nd.

Pitching Change: Caleb Graham replaces Fernando Cabrera.

Luis Figueroa strikes out swinging.

Martin Maldonado homers (1) on a fly ball to left field. Randy Ruiz scores. Kennys Vargas scores.

Daniel Ortiz singles on a ground ball to first baseman Jeff Dominguez.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-hitter Jose Morales replaces Luis Montanez.

Jose Morales strikes out swinging.

Dee Gordon flies out to center fielder Reymond Fuentes.

 

Way to go, Maldy!

 

Maldonado also singled and added a sacrifice bunt in his big 2-for-4 night. And of course, no one dared run...

 

3B Irving Falu was 0-for-5 (one walk, two K's).

[Mass Haas]

The Puerto Rico League announced their awards today, congrats to Hiram Burgos, who was a unanimous choice for their Pitcher of the Year!

 

So my tweet of December 28th was spot on as it turns out

 

#Brewers Winter update - if Puerto Rico League issued a Cy Young Award, it'd go to Hiram Burgos (@Burgos196) http://bit.ly/19pWQIf #wow

[Mass Haas]

Saturday's Winter League action --

 

Dominican Box Score

 

Licey was shut down 10-1 by former Brewers soft-tossing LHP Chris Cody (wow, check out his line, would love to see him get another chance in affiliated ball).

 

First baseman Juan Francisco was 0-for-3 (one K), right fielder Eugenio Velez 0-for-2 HBP, one K).

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

First baseman Jason Rogers' Escogido club wins another one, this time 1-0, as another unsigned pitcher, Canadian Chris Leroux, posted a spectacular pitching line. Rogers was 0-for-3 (one K).

 

***

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Mayaguez rolled 10-5 as Irving Falu, playing third base, was 2-for-4 (two runs, sacrifice bunt). Ironman Martin Maldonado reached base three times (double, walk, and no kidding, yet another HBP).

 

Falu (missed catch) and Maldonado (catcher's interference) was each charged with an error. Maldy did throw out one of two basestealers.

 

Actually, the baserunner wasn't out, but statistically Maldonado gets credit and the baserunner is charged with a caught stealing - you don't see that often:

 

With Jeff Dominguez batting, Benji Gonzalez advances to 3rd base on a caught stealing error by Irving Falu, assist to catcher Martin Maldonado.

 

Also, two outs, might as well try --

 

Mayaguez Bottom of the 2nd

 

Kennys Vargas strikes out swinging.

Luis Figueroa doubles (2) on a line drive to left fielder Geraldo Valentin.

Martin Maldonado doubles (1) on a fly ball to left fielder Geraldo Valentin. Luis Figueroa to 3rd.

Daniel Ortiz grounds out, pitcher Logan Williamson to first baseman Jeff Dominguez.

Luis Montanez singles on a ground ball to left fielder Geraldo Valentin. Luis Figueroa scores. Martin Maldonado out at home on the throw, left fielder Geraldo Valentin to catcher Rene Rivera.

[Mass Haas]

Just added them all up - Martin Maldonado was hit by a pitch six times in the Puerto Rico Winter League season in only 85 AB's. He has been hit another four times in seven PWL round-robin postseason games, for a total of ten for the math-impaired .

 

While this is a crazy pace, a glance indicates the HBP was a big part of Maldonado's minor league career, not nearly so much during his major league stint thus far.

[Mass Haas]

Sunday's Winter League action --

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

RHP Jose De La Torre with a rough inning, as a 5-3 deficit became 8-3 after this --

 

Ponce Bottom of the 8th

 

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

Benji Gonzalez singles on a fly ball to left fielder Edgardo Baez.

Reymond Fuentes bunt grounds out to catcher Roberto Pena. Reymond Fuentes out on batter interference.

With Geraldo Valentin batting, Benji Gonzalez steals (1) 2nd base.

Geraldo Valentin hit by pitch.

Ivan De Jesus homers (1) on a fly ball to left field. Benji Gonzalez scores. Geraldo Valentin scores.

Jeff Dominguez grounds out to first baseman Neftali Soto.

Henry Ramos strikes out swinging.

 

SS Yadiel Rivera had one late at-bat (GIDP).

 

***

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Mayaguez with a 5-4 win -- Irving Falu and Martin Maldonado each 1-for-4, Maldonado scored a run.

 

Fortunately, all is good (via Martin himself) in Puerto Rico after the earthquake in its northern waters last night.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

Licey with a needed 4-1 win, the three Brewers as follows --

 

RF Eugenio Velez with a big night -- 3-for-4, three RBI, outfield assist (caught stealing). First baseman Juan Francisco was 1-for-4 (one K).

 

For Alfredo Figaro, a brief night --

 

Aguilas Top of the 7th

 

Pitching Change: Alfredo Figaro replaces Esmil Rogers.

Joey Terdoslavich singles on a ground ball to center fielder Engel Beltre.

Hector Luna pops out to second baseman Emilio Bonifacio.

Pitching Change: Andrew Sisco replaces Alfredo Figaro.

Ricardo Nanita singles on a line drive to left fielder Felix Perez. Joey Terdoslavich to 2nd.

Pitching Change: Warner Madrigal replaces Andrew Sisco.

Francisco Pena grounds into a force out, third baseman Anderson Hernandez to second baseman Emilio Bonifacio. Joey Terdoslavich scores. Ricardo Nanita out at 2nd. Francisco Pena advances to 2nd, on a throwing error by second baseman Emilio Bonifacio.

Alex Valdez called out on strikes.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

SS Hector Gomez flashes occasional pop again, 1-for-4 with a HR. Jason Rogers reached on an error in a late single at-bat.

 

***

 

Eric Marzec's 26th birthday was spent in Australia, he was game-idle, but went to the Aussie Tennis Open, so he's had an amazing winter adventure (well, summer down under).

[Mass Haas]

Monday's Winter League action --

 

Light night.

 

Venezuelan Box Score

 

For somebody with a 1.69 postseason ERA, RHP Arcenio Leon has been charged with four blown saves in the round-robin.

 

La Guaira Top of the 6th

 

Joe Thurston grounds out to first baseman Luis Ugueto.

Pitching Change: Arcenio Leon replaces Roy Merritt.

Alex Cabrera lines out to second baseman Jose Flores.

Rene Reyes strikes out swinging.

 

La Guaira Top of the 7th

 

C. J. Retherford pops out to third baseman Luis Maza in foul territory.

Cesar Suarez singles on a ground ball to shortstop Freddy Galvis.

Miguel Gonzalez strikes out swinging.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-hitter Rafael Ortega replaces Heiker Meneses.

With Rafael Ortega batting, Cesar Suarez steals (1) 2nd base.

Rafael Ortega singles on a ground ball to right fielder Oswaldo Arcia. Cesar Suarez scores.

With Carlos Sanchez batting, Rafael Ortega caught stealing 2nd base, catcher Sandy Leon to shortstop Freddy Galvis.

 

La Guaira Top of the 8th

 

Carlos Sanchez singles on a ground ball to center fielder Ender Inciarte.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-hitter Guilder Rodriguez replaces Abel Nieves.

Guilder Rodriguez grounds into a force out, pitcher Arcenio Leon to shortstop Freddy Galvis. Carlos Sanchez out at 2nd. Guilder Rodriguez to 1st.

Pitching Change: Jose Guanchez replaces Arcenio Leon.

Joe Thurston grounds out, second baseman Jose Flores to first baseman Luis Ugueto. Guilder Rodriguez to 2nd.

Pitching Change: Silvino Bracho replaces Jose Guanchez.

Silvino Bracho intentionally walks Alex Cabrera.

Rene Reyes strikes out swinging.

 

***

 

Leon's Zulia club would score two in the 8th for a 3-1 win.

[Mass Haas]

Tuesday's Winter League action --

 

Dominican Box Score

 

SS Hector Gomez (two big league games with the Rockies in 2011), coming up on his age 26 season, helped his club to a 6-2 win.

 

Gomez hit his third postseason home run in a 2-for-4 night, one K, two errors.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

Looks like 1B Jason Rogers' never-ending season will continue, as his club rolls on in the round-robin. Rogers was 0-for-3 (one walk, one K).

 

For Licey, which was shut out on just three hits, Juan Francisco (0-for-3, walk) and Eugenio Velez (0-for-3, throwing error in right field) had quiet nights. Francisco hasn't played third base in several weeks.

 

***

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Martin Maldonado (1-for-3, one K) had one of Mayaguez' two hits in their shutout loss. Third baseman Irving Falu was 0-for-3.

 

***

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Lots of shutouts today...

 

Young SS Yadiel Rivera fanned both times up, but his Caguas team won, 1-0.

 

40-man roster RHP Jose De La Torre allowed two hits, but pitched a scoreless inning for a hold --

 

Ponce Top of the 8th

 

Pitching Change: Jose De La Torre replaces Shaun Garceau.

Benji Gonzalez flies out to center fielder Miguel Abreu.

Reymond Fuentes singles on a line drive to center fielder Miguel Abreu.

Geraldo Valentin singles on a line drive to right fielder Juan Silva. Reymond Fuentes to 2nd.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-runner Jose Lozada replaces Geraldo Valentin.

Ivan De Jesus grounds into a double play, pitcher Jose De La Torre to shortstop Yadiel Rivera to first baseman Neftali Soto. Jose Lozada out at 2nd.

[Mass Haas]

Wednesday's Winter League action --

 

Australian Box Score (Thursday there)

 

RHP Eric Marzec tossed two scoreless, striking out four (three hits allowed) --

 

Brisbane Top of the 7th

 

Pitching Change: Eric Marzec replaces Joe Burns.

Joshua Roberts flies out to left fielder Josh Davies.

Joey Rickard flies out to left fielder Josh Davies.

David Sutherland singles on a fly ball to center fielder Justin Trapp.

Patrick Leonard called out on strikes.

 

Brisbane Top of the 8th

 

Ryan Battaglia called out on strikes.

Brad Dutton strikes out swinging.

Justin O'Conner singles on a ground ball to shortstop Brad Harman.

Logan Wade singles on a line drive to left fielder Jarryd Rogers. Justin O'Conner to 2nd.

Marcus Bradley called out on strikes.

 

***

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Mayaguez lost 4-3 in ten innings --

 

Martin Maldonado was 0-for-4 (one K), now hitting .206 in the ten round robin games thus far. There were no stolen base attempts against Maldonado. Irving Falu, again playing third base, singled, walked, and had a sacrifice fly in a 1-for-3 effort with two RBI.

 

For Caguas, RHP Jose De La Torre stranded two in his eventful scoreless inning --

 

Mayaguez Bottom of the 8th

 

Pitching Change: Jose De La Torre replaces Andres Santiago.

Eddie Rosario singles on a ground ball to right fielder Juan Silva.

With Randy Ruiz batting, Eddie Rosario steals (3) 2nd base.

Randy Ruiz hit by pitch.

Luis Figueroa ground bunts into a force out, pitcher Jose De La Torre to third baseman Andy Gonzalez. Eddie Rosario out at 3rd. Randy Ruiz to 2nd. Luis Figueroa to 1st.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-runner Noel Cuevas replaces Randy Ruiz.

Kennys Vargas walks. Noel Cuevas to 3rd. Luis Figueroa to 2nd.

Martin Maldonado grounds into a double play, third baseman Andy Gonzalez to first baseman Neftali Soto. Luis Figueroa out at 3rd.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

First baseman Jason Rogers' Escogido team rolls on in a 2-0 win. Rogers was 2-for-3 with a run scored.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

Licey won 6-4, but it was little thanks to Brewers' Juan Francisco (0-for-4, one walk, one K) and Eugenio Velez (0-for-4, but did have an outfield assist).

 

For the losing Cibao squad, it was a very tough night for SS Hector Gomez (0-for-1, sacrifice bunt), and this --

 

Errors -- Gomez, H 3 (missed catch, fielding, fielding - seven errors in the round-robin)

 

Licey Top of the 5th

 

Engel Beltre reaches on a fielding error by shortstop Hector Gomez.

Erick Aybar singles on a line drive to center fielder Francisco Peguero. Engel Beltre to 2nd.

Juan Francisco called out on strikes.

Defensive Substitution: Ray Olmedo replaces shortstop Hector Gomez, batting 9th, playing shortstop.

Gigantes del Cibao shortstop Hector Gomez left the game due to an injured hand.

 

I wonder what is winter league etiquette in these situations -- how quickly did Gomez or DWL staff notify the Brewers, or are they learning via this post?

[Mass Haas]

Licey Top of the 5th

 

Engel Beltre reaches on a fielding error by shortstop Hector Gomez.

Erick Aybar singles on a line drive to center fielder Francisco Peguero. Engel Beltre to 2nd.

Juan Francisco called out on strikes.

Defensive Substitution: Ray Olmedo replaces shortstop Hector Gomez, batting 9th, playing shortstop.

Gigantes del Cibao shortstop Hector Gomez left the game due to an injured hand.

 

I wonder what is winter league etiquette in these situations -- how quickly did Gomez or DWL staff notify the Brewers, or are they learning via this post?

 

That must have been a very minor injury (perhaps injured ego after his 3rd error), but SS Hector Gomez is in Thursday's starting lineup.

[Mass Haas]

Jason Rogers (who did not play Thursday night) tweeted (protected account) that his offseason finally begins this weekend, so he's wrapping things up even if his Dominican team advances to the DWL final, which it's currently set up to do.

 

Long season after the AFL and winter ball.

 

"Much needed" R&R, as per Jason. Enjoy!

 

***

 

(Thursday's game results will be posted by mid-morning today.)

[Mass Haas]

Thursday's Winter League action --

 

Venezuela Box Score

 

RHP Arcenio Leon made 24 regular winter season appearances, and now must be nearing 30 combined with the round-robin play. Leon stranded both of his inherited runners upon coming in to the game, and while he did allow one run, his effort over 2.1 innings here is pretty solid within the context of his team's wild 12-11 loss --

 

Caracas Top of the 3rd

 

Jesus Aguilar singles on a line drive to left fielder Jose Pirela.

Bobby Abreu doubles (5) on a line drive to center fielder Ender Inciarte. Jesus Aguilar to 3rd.

Alex Gonzalez singles on a line drive to left fielder Jose Pirela. Jesus Aguilar scores. Bobby Abreu to 3rd.

Jesus Guzman strikes out on a foul tip.

Daniel Mayora singles on a ground ball to second baseman Jose Flores. Bobby Abreu scores. Alex Gonzalez to 2nd.

Gregorio Petit flies out to center fielder Ender Inciarte.

Henry Blanco doubles (1) on a line drive to center fielder Ender Inciarte. Alex Gonzalez scores. Daniel Mayora to 3rd.

Pitching Change: Arcenio Leon replaces Jason Lane.

Yangervis Solarte grounds out, shortstop Freddy Galvis to first baseman Ernesto Mejia.

 

Caracas Top of the 4th

Alex Romero grounds out, shortstop Freddy Galvis to first baseman Ernesto Mejia.

Jesus Aguilar grounds out, shortstop Freddy Galvis to first baseman Ernesto Mejia.

Bobby Abreu grounds out, second baseman Jose Flores to first baseman Ernesto Mejia.

 

Caracas Top of the 5th

Alex Gonzalez grounds out, shortstop Freddy Galvis to first baseman Ernesto Mejia.

Jesus Guzman singles on a line drive to right fielder Freddy Parejo.

With Daniel Mayora batting, Jesus Guzman steals (1) 2nd base.

Daniel Mayora strikes out swinging.

Gregorio Petit singles on a ground ball to right fielder Freddy Parejo. Jesus Guzman scores. Gregorio Petit advances to 2nd, on a fielding error by right fielder Freddy Parejo.

Henry Blanco flies out to center fielder Ender Inciarte.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

The Gigantes and Licey teams are now tied for the final spot in the DWL finals, both at 8-9.

 

For Licey in their 9-6 loss, 1B Juan Francisco was 1-for-4 (RBI, one K). Eugenio Velez, playing right field in this one, was 2-for-4 (double, run scored).

 

Wow, not only did SS Hector Gomez not miss any additional time with his hand injury from the night before, but he had a monster game here -- 3-for-4, including his 4th HR of the round robin, a two-out, three-run shot he pulled to left in the 2nd inning.

 

***

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

RHP Jose De La Torre may be one of the more anonymous names among 40-man roster members for casual Brewer fans, but if you've been following this thread, you've seen all his groundball-heavy winter outings detailed, another hold for him here --

 

Ponce Bottom of the 8th

 

Pitching Change: Jose De La Torre replaces Miguel Mejia.

Henry Ramos grounds out, second baseman Rey Navarro to first baseman Neftali Soto.

Benji Gonzalez flies out to right fielder Juan Silva.

Reymond Fuentes grounds out, second baseman Rey Navarro to first baseman Neftali Soto.

 

***

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Mayaguez is in a real battle for a finals spot.

 

Third baseman Irving Falu's weak winter continued, 0-for-5, although he did drive in a run.

 

OK, Martin Maldonado, another HBP -- let's count the winter bruises. Maldonado played first base to catch a bit of a break in this 7-2 win. He also singled, walked, and scored a run (one K, one caught stealing).

[Mass Haas]

Friday's Winter League action --

 

Dominican Box Score

 

Wow, what an interesting winter SS Hector Gomez is having. Gomez, who will be 26 in March, was brought back from minor league free agency despite posting a .494 OPS (not a typo) in 368 Huntsville at-bats in 2013.

 

On Friday, Gomez hit his 5th HR in the postseason (his 8th overall this winter), and also doubled, scoring two runs in what turned out to be a huge 6-5 win for his Gigantes club (more on that below). Gomez also committed his 8th error of the round robin (Gigantes have only played 18 round-robin games, and Gomez has not played all of those).

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

Licey defeated Jason Rogers' first-place Escogido team, 6-1. In what is likely Rogers final winter game, Jason was 0-for-3 (one K).

 

For Licey, Juan Francisco was 1-for-5 (one K), and Eugenio Velez, playing right field, was 2-for-4, scoring twice.

 

***

 

So here's the scoop in the Dominican -- Licey, with Francisco, Velez, and Alfredo Figaro, and Gigantes, with Hector Gomez, (now both 9-9) will play a one-game playoff on Saturday at Gigantes for the right to advance to the finals against Escogido. Rogers was Escogido's only Brewer. OK, got it?

 

***

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

21-year-old SS Yadiel Rivera was 0-for-3 as his Caguas team lost 9-1.

 

***

 

Despite that loss, Rivera and his teammate RHP Jose De La Torre will get to experience the Puerto Rico League final series with their team. Caguas will face Martin Maldonado and Irving Falu's Mayaguez team in the final series, starting Sunday.

 

Both Maldonado and Falu sat out Mayaguez's final non-playoff factor game on Friday.

[Mass Haas]

It's Saturday in Australia, so we have this --

 

Australia Box Score

 

RHP Eric Marzec earned the win with a really nice outing here as his Melbourne club rallied for three 8th inning runs. Marzec finished up with three hitless innings (walk, HBP) in Melbourne's 5-3 win. And what a way to close it out in the 9th! The Australian Winter League's regular season runs through January 26th.

 

Brisbane Top of the 7th

 

Pitching Change: Eric Marzec replaces Justin Erasmus.

Logan Wade grounds out, third baseman Jared Schlehuber to first baseman Ryan Casteel.

Andrew Campbell strikes out swinging.

Joshua Roberts walks.

Joey Rickard grounds into a force out, shortstop Brad Harman to second baseman Darryl George. Joshua Roberts out at 2nd.

 

Brisbane Top of the 8th

 

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

Ryan Battaglia strikes out swinging.

Steven Greer hit by pitch.

Brad Dutton called out on strikes.

 

Brisbane Top of the 9th

 

Connor MacDonald strikes out swinging.

Logan Wade strikes out swinging.

Andrew Campbell called out on strikes.

[Mass Haas]

So here's the scoop in the Dominican -- Licey, with Francisco, Velez, and Alfredo Figaro, and Gigantes, with Hector Gomez, (now both 9-9) will play a one-game playoff on Saturday at Gigantes for the right to advance to the finals against Escogido. Rogers was Escogido's only Brewer. OK, got it?

 

Wow, 8-8 after eight innings. Enjoy the game log, live readers.

[SoupTown]

Licey wins in the 9th, by one run

 

Licey Top of the 9th

 

Pitching Change: Zack Segovia replaces Rhiner Cruz.

Engel Beltre strikes out swinging.

Erick Aybar called out on strikes.

Juan Francisco homers (5) on a fly ball to right center field.

[Mass Haas]

Wow, Licey wins, 9-8, as noted above, on Juan Francisco's go-ahead blast in the top of the 9th. He hit the HR off former Brewer farmhand RHP Zack Segovia.

 

Not sure if "Juan Francisco" was trending on Twitter, but from a Dominican perspective, Twitter absolutely "blew up" with Juan's name. As you'll see below, the passion of the players for these Caribbean-based games is over the top.

 

That being said, watch Francisco's home plate display upon crushing the home run. It puts Carlos Gomez' theatrics after his HR against the Braves to shame.

 

And there's a team-wide celebration at home plate -- keep in mind, this is with two outs in the TOP of the 9th!

 

Hopefully this gives Francisco a big boost for the Dominican Finals (which begin Monday) and then spring training and beyond.

 

Behold -- make sure you watch the whole video to see the replay.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUxi2ujIjwc&feature=youtube_gdata_player

 

Here's the box score link again --

 

Francisco finished 2-for-5 (one K), his HR was his 5th of the round-robin tournament in 19 games. He's also hitting .232 in those games. Teammate Eugenio Velez was 1-for-3 (walk, RBI, K).

 

For the losing Gigantes club, shortstop Hector Gomez ended his winter season with a 1-for-4 night (two runs, RBI, K).

 

***

 

In Puerto Rico, Martin Maldonado and Irving Falu (Mayaguez) will travel to face fellow Brewers Jose De La Torre and Yadiel Rivera (Caguas) in Game One of the best-of-seven league finals beginning today (Sunday).

 

You'll be able to follow that box score / game log at this link.

 

Last night, Maldonado posted a picture of himself with CC Sabathia on Twitter. A few folks asked if that was from Rickie Weeks' wedding, which was last night. Looks like it was, as Maldy just tweeted "On my way to the airport back to PR #finals".

[homer]

Ha! That's awesome.

[Mass Haas]

In Puerto Rico, Martin Maldonado and Irving Falu (Mayaguez) will travel to face fellow Brewers Jose De La Torre and Yadiel Rivera (Caguas) in Game One of the best-of-seven league finals beginning today (Sunday).

 

You'll be able to follow that box score / game log at this link.

 

Via his own Tweet, Josh Prince will join Maldonado and Falu on that Mayaguez team.

[Mass Haas]

Sunday's Winter League action --

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

RHP Jose De La Torre tossed a hitless inning of relief as his Caguas club won the opener in the league best-of-seven final, 5-1. Former Brewer farmhand starting LHP Efrain Nieves got the win.

 

For Mayaguez, Irving Falu led off, played second base, and was 0-for-5 (one K). Martin Maldonado was 1-for-3 (walk, one K); no baserunners attempted steals with Maldy behind the dish.

 

Mayaguez Top of the 8th

 

Pitching Change: Jose De La Torre replaces Luis Gonzalez.

Eddie Rosario flies out to center fielder Miguel Abreu.

Randy Ruiz grounds out, shortstop Luis Mateo to first baseman Neftali Soto.

Ruben Gotay walks.

Martin Maldonado strikes out swinging.

 

***

 

Just a reminder, the four winter league champions (Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Venezuela) will meet in Venezuela in February to compete in the Caribbean World Series.

 

***

 

Former Brewer 40-man roster member Zelous Wheeler (now a Yankee farmhand) has played the entire winter, start to finish, for his team in the Mexican League, and he was on base four times in the deciding game seven Sunday that put his team into the league finals.

[Mass Haas]

Monday's Winter League action --

 

Dominican Box Score

 

It's Game One of a Best-of-Nine, folks!

 

Licey (with three Brewers, including Alfredo Figaro, idle in this one) took game one, 2-1.

 

Cleanup first baseman Juan Francisco was 1-for-4 (RBI single in the 1st inning, one K), and RF Eugenio Velez, batting 8th, was 1-for-3 (stolen base).

[Mass Haas]

Tuesday's Winter League action --

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Mayaguez catcher Martin Maldonado hit a two-run 3rd inning double that put his team on top 5-1 in an eventual 6-4 win that evened the league championship best-of-seven at one game apiece. Maldonado also singled and scored a run in a 2-for-4 game (one K).

 

Irving Falu led off and played second base (1-for-5). Josh Prince made his winter debut with a pinch-running appearance.

 

For the losing Caguas squad, RHP Jose De La Torre gave up a late run that allowed Mayaguez some insurance --

 

Mayaguez Bottom of the 8th

 

Pitching Change: Jose De La Torre replaces Miguel Mejia.

Daniel Ortiz triples (1) on a line drive to right fielder Juan Silva.

Luis Montanez grounds out, shortstop Luis Mateo to first baseman Neftali Soto.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-hitter Jose Morales replaces Angel Sanchez.

Jose Morales singles on a ground ball to center fielder Miguel Abreu. Daniel Ortiz scores.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-runner Josh Prince replaces Jose Morales.

Irving Falu flies out to center fielder Miguel Abreu.

Luis Figueroa flies out to center fielder Miguel Abreu.

 

Game three in this series is Wednesday evening back in Caguas.

 

***

 

Dominican Box Score

 

Licey takes a two games to none lead in the best-of-nine final with a 5-1 win at home. Juan Francisco (1-for-4, one K) hit a solo shot (to center field, off a righty), his 6th home run in 21 postseason games this winter.

 

Eugenio Velez played right field, was 1-for-3 with a run scored.

 

Game Three is Wednesday at Escogido.

 

***

 

Venezuela Box Score

 

RHP Arcenio Leon tossed 1.2 scoreless innings of relief in his club's loss and successfully stranded an inherited runner. His Zulia team is only 5-11 in the round robin there and will not be in the league finals.

 

Caribes Bottom of the 6th

 

Pitching Change: Jose Guanchez replaces Silvino Bracho.

Alexi Amarista doubles (3) on a fly ball to left fielder Jose Pirela.

Oscar Salazar singles on a line drive to center fielder Ender Inciarte. Alexi Amarista scores.

Cory Aldridge grounds into a force out, second baseman Jose Flores to shortstop Freddy Galvis. Oscar Salazar out at 2nd. Cory Aldridge to 1st.

Pitching Change: Arcenio Leon replaces Jose Guanchez.

Jose Castillo grounds into a double play, second baseman Jose Flores to shortstop Freddy Galvis to first baseman Luis Ugueto. Cory Aldridge out at 2nd.

 

Caribes Bottom of the 7th

 

Hector Gimenez walks.

Niuman Romero out on a sacrifice bunt to first baseman Luis Ugueto. Hector Gimenez to 2nd.

Eduardo Escobar strikes out swinging.

Gorkys Hernandez singles on a ground ball to shortstop Freddy Galvis. Hector Gimenez to 3rd.

With Jose Gil batting, Gorkys Hernandez steals (3) 2nd base.

Jose Gil grounds out to first baseman Luis Ugueto.

 

***

 

RHP Eric Marzec ended his stay in Australia. One rough outing bumped his final ERA in 13 relief appearnces to 4.34, but more importantly, in 18.2 innings, Marzec struck out 28 and walked seven.

 

Also, Eric is happy he's no longer paying beer prices Down Under.

[Mass Haas]

Wednesday's Winter League action --

 

Dominican Box Score

 

It's been all about pitching in the Dominican League best-of-nine final, and with a 1-0 win, Licey now has a commanding three games to none lead. Fernando Rodney allowed a 9th inning run to break the scoreless tie.

 

For Licey, Juan Francisco, now hitting .222 in 22 postseason games, was 0-for-4 (one K). Francisco is certainly getting his defensive innings in at first base. Eugenio Velez, playing right field, was 1-for-3 (hitting .250 in the long postseason).

 

The series continues Thursday in Licey.

 

***

 

Puerto Rico Box Score

 

Huge win for the Caguas club of RHP Jose De La Torre and young shortstop Yadiel Rivera, scoring two runs in the bottom of the 9th to tie the game, and then taking a 5-4 walkoff win in the 11th. Caguas now leads the best-of-seven final series, two games to one.

 

Rivera was a late replacement but he came up big as part of the winning rally in his only at-bat:

 

Caguas Bottom of the 11th

 

Defensive switch from second base to third base for Irving Falu.

Josh Prince remains in the game as the second baseman.

Pitching Change: Randy Fontanez replaces Tyler Herron.

Aaron Bates doubles (1) on a line drive to right fielder Luis Montanez.

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-runner Edgardo Baez replaces Aaron Bates.

Randy Fontanez intentionally walks Ramon Castro.

Pitching Change: Pat McCoy replaces Randy Fontanez.

Juan Silva strikes out swinging.

Pitching Change: Travis Schlichting replaces Pat McCoy.

Yadiel Rivera singles on a line drive to center fielder Eddie Rosario. Edgardo Baez to 3rd. Ramon Castro to 2nd.

Miguel Abreu singles on a line drive to center fielder Eddie Rosario. Edgardo Baez scores. Ramon Castro to 3rd. Yadiel Rivera to 2nd.

 

De La Torre tossed a scoreless inning earlier in the game, he remains a groundball master --

 

Mayaguez Top of the 8th

 

Pitching Change: Jose De La Torre replaces Miguel Mejia.

Martin Maldonado singles on a ground ball to center fielder Miguel Abreu.

Daniel Ortiz grounds out, shortstop Luis Mateo to first baseman Neftali Soto. Martin Maldonado to 2nd.

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

Offensive Substitution: Pinch-hitter Jose Morales replaces Angel Sanchez.

Jose Morales strikes out swinging.

 

For the losing Mayaguez Brewers' contingent, Irving Falu had a (long overdue) huge game, 4-for-6 with two doubles and two runs scored (one K). The 30-year-old switch-hitter has plenty of shortstop experience to be the main challenger to Jeff Bianchi for the backup infielder spot this spring.

 

Catcher Martin Maldonado, batting 6th, was 1-for-5 (no stolen base attempts against).

 

Josh Prince saw late action as a pinch-runner and second baseman, but is still waiting for his first winter at-bat. If you're wondering, Prince has made four pro appearances at second, all coming last season in Nashville.

 

This series is off now until Friday, in Mayaguez.

[Mass Haas]

From Baseball America -- When Looking At Winter Numbers, Factor In The League