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2005-06 DFE Resource Thread


Welcome to the 2005-06 DFE (draft & follow candidates) resource thread. With several junior and community colleges starting their spring season at the end of the month in January, I figured it was time to create a thread fully supplied with links and other handy resources to make it easier for everyone to follow the DFE candidates that are eligible to sign with the Brewers up until a week before this June's draft. Feel free to post comments/updates within this thread.

 

Similar to past years, I will be writing more detailed scouting reports in a feature story that will be posted on the homepage at some point in time. That story may take a few weeks to appear, depending on how much feedback I receive from the head coaches of all of the candidates listed below.

 

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17. Timothy Smith, RF (Midland College, TX)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/tim_smith.jpg

 

Smith is a powerfully built outfield prospect at 6'2", 225 pounds from Toronto. He set the single season batting average record at Midland College during his freshman year (.468) as well as the single-season mark for on-base percentage (.553). Smith, a left-handed hitter, has proven to hit for power with a wood bat, as Canadian prep players don't use aluminum bats. He was a 21st round draft pick by the New York Mets coming out of high school in 2004, and was a member of the Team Canada Junior National Team for two years. Given how high the Brewers drafted Smith it is likely he will be in the organization by June with another good year at the plate.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Midland College Baseball page

Midland College Player Profile

NJCAA Baseball page

 

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18. Zack Braddock, LHP (Chipola College, FL)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/zach_braddock.jpg

 

The Brewers have followed the Chipola program closely in recent years, signing Darren Ford from there a year ago as a DFE and selecting Mat Gamel in the fourth round of last year's draft. Braddock has the perfect, athletic pitcher's build at 6'4", 225 pounds, and when you throw in the fact that he's left-handed he automatically becomes arguably the most exciting DFE candidate to watch this spring. He had Tommy John surgery during the summer of 2004, otherwise he may have been drafted within the top five rounds of the 2005 draft. Last spring recovering from surgery, Braddock's velocity returned to the upper-80s, maxing out at 89 miles per hour. Scouts were still hesitant with him as he didn't throw too many curveballs, which will be the true test on his healing elbow. If Braddock stays healthy he is likely to sign with the Brewers this spring. Update 3/14/06: Braddock is actually at Burlington CC.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Burlington CC Baseball page

NJCAA Baseball page

 

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24. Michael Ramlow, LHP (Owens CC, OH)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/michael_ramlow.jpg

 

Ramlow is the second of three intriguing, projectable left-handers the Brewers will follow this spring with an athletic and wiry 6'7", 165 pound frame. He was named the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference Player of the Year in 2005 after posting a 7-2 record his freshman season with an ERA just above 1.00. Ramlow's fastball sits in the 89 range, and with his frame he could easily add a few more ticks, and is expected to throw in the low-90s this spring. He also throws a very good curveball and a polished changeup, both of which he throws for strikes, and he has shown a propensity for missing bats. The biggest knock on Ramlow is his stature, given his weight relative to height, although he has worked hard to add strength. His mechanics at this point in time are clean, but given his lanky frame he will need to continue to keep his mechanics in check to avoid injury.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Owens CC Baseball page

Owens CC Roster

NJCAA Baseball page

 

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25. Taylor Green, 2B (Cypress College, CA)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/taylor_green.jpg

 

Green's best tool is his bat, as he uses quick, strong hands that allow him to employ a smooth, line-drive swing from the left side of the plate. Right now he has more doubles power than home run power, and he exhibits a strong eye at the plate. Green will slide over to either second or third base at the professional level, as he doesn't have the ideal range to stick at shortstop. He is accustomed to using a wood bat growing up in British Columbia, Canada, where, as noted above, high school players use wood bats.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Cypress College Baseball page

 

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31. Patrick Murray, 1B (Santa Ana College, CA)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/patrick_murray.jpg

 

At 6'2", 250 pounds, Murray offers an intimidating presence at the plate, and exciting power potential as a right-handed hitter. While he played third base and catcher at the high school level, his footspeed probably limits him to first base. Despite his limited speed, he does show good footwork around the bag and has a very strong arm.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Santa Ana College Baseball page

 

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32. Spencer Pennington, LF (Alabama, medical redshirt fifth-year senior)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/spencer_pennington.jpg

 

Pennington is a fifth-year senior that received an added year of eligibility due to a shoulder injury. The Brewers followed three Division I players last year through the DFE process with similar backgrounds: Dustin Timm, Jon Mungle and Derek Miller, and did the same with Jared Theodorakos two years ago. Pennington originally went to Alabama to pursue a two-sport career as he also played on the football team as a big, strong-armed quarterback. The shoulder injury caused him to give up football to concentrate on baseball. Pennington is an impressive athletic specimen at 6'4", 225 pounds, and with a strong left-handed swing he offers a considerable amount of power potential.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Alabama Baseball page

Alabama Player Profile

 

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33. Jorge Core, RHP (Marshalltown CC, IA)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/jorge_core.jpg

 

Core attended the esteemed Puerto Rico Baseball Academy in high school. Long and lithe, he has a very good, strong and projectable pitchers frame with a quick, whip-like delivery. Core currently throws in the upper 80s to low-90s with plenty potential for added velocity. His fastball has natural tailing movement on it and the makings for a good slider. Core's changeup is a work in progress, but like the rest of his repertoire it shows good potential. He's raw but filled with promise, and does show some knowledge of changing speeds. Commanding the strike zone with all of his pitches is something Core needs to work on the most.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Marshalltown CC Baseball page

Marshalltown CC Photo Roster

NJCAA Baseball page

 

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34. Brock Kjeldgaard, RHP (Indians Hills CC, IA)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/brock_kjeldgaard.jpg

 

The Brewers likely discovered Kjeldgaard when scouting Jose Garcia at Indian Hills CC, a DFE candidate from a year ago. Like Garcia, Kjeldgaard will be under the tutelage of former Milwaukee Brewers farmhand Cam Walker. Like Walker, a native of Manitoba, and several other players on this list, Kjeldgaard is Canadian and a native of London, Ontario. At 6'5" he has a very imposing, strong frame with room for even more strength. Kjeldgaard profiles as a staff workhorse, and could easily add velocity to his 89-91 fastball. He has committed to play for the University of Nevada for the 2006-07 year if he doesn't go pro this spring or summer.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Indian Hills CC Baseball page

NJCAA Baseball page

 

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35. Sebastien Vendette, RHP (Northeastern Oklahoma A&M, OK)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/sebastian_vendette.jpg

 

Throw another Canadian onto the list, as Vendette hails from Laval, Quebec, and played with the Canadian Junior National Team in 2004. His fastball is already a plus pitch, topping out at 94 and working comfortably in the 90-92 range. Vendette has worked hard to improve his slider and changeup, and projects as Northeastern Oklahoma A&M's number one or two starting pitcher. He may profile best as a short-reliever down the road, as he shows better velocity and actually pitches better on shorter rest with what some may call a rubber arm. Vendette has signed on to play with Oklahoma State for the 2006-07 season if he doesn't sign either this spring or summer to play professionally.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Northeastern Oklahoma A&M Baseball page

NJCAA Baseball page

 

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36. Stephen Barnes, RHP (Lake City CC, FL)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/stephen_barnes.jpg

 

Barnes was drafted in the 36th round of the 2004 draft as well, and the Brewers followed his progress through last spring at Lake City CC, a school they have mined before for talent (Hasan Rasheed, Carlos Corporan). Barnes has a large, powerful frame at 6'3", 215 pounds, although there is some concern that his body has the potential to get too soft down the road, so he will have to watch his conditioning. Armed with a 89-91 fastball, a curve, slider and changeup, he has a solid repertoire of pitches, and has shown the ability to throw them all for strikes. The Brewers would like to see him throw strikes more consistently and a slight increase of velocity on his heater wouldn't hurt either. Barnes was named the seventh-best prospect in the Clark Griffith League last summer according to Baseball America, and has committed to play for Oral Roberts for the 2006-07 season.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Lake City CC Baseball page

Lake City CC Roster

NJCAA Baseball page

 

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37. Christopher Hopkins, CF (Sierra College, CA)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/chris_hopkins.jpg

 

Hopkins is an extremely gifted, natural athlete similar to Lorenzo Cain, a DFE signee from a year ago. He has outstanding speed on the basepaths and in centerfield, and he also shows a disciplined approach at the plate, exhibited by his .320 batting average from a year ago at Sierra College as a 17-year old. On top of his physical attributes, Hopkins is also an intelligent baseball player with natural savvy that should allow him to progress hand-in-hand with his tool-set. Like so many young speed demons, he needs to improve his jumps in stealing bases, and his throwing arm is fringe average.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Sierra College Baseball page

Sierra College Outfielder Profiles

 

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39. Bradley Miller, SS (Cowley College, KS)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/brad_miller.jpg

 

The Brewers opted not to sign Miller's Cowley teammate Deik Scram a year ago after a big spring statistically, but they did like what they saw in Miller. Miller came to Cowley as a two-way player, excelling both at the plate and on the mound. His ability at the plate is what got him drafted, and he hit his way to become the Jayhawk Conference's Eastern Division Freshman of the Year.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Cowley College Baseball page

Cowley College Player Profile

NJCAA Baseball page

 

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41. Jordan Lennerton, 1B (El Paso CC, TX)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/jordan_lennerton.jpg

 

Lennerton is the fifth of seven Canadian draft and follow candidates on this list as a native of Langley, British Columbia. Like Patrick Murray, power is Lennerton's calling card, although Lennerton is a left-handed hitter. He also shows a very good eye at the plate, and is far from an all-or-nothing hitter with a smooth stroke that allows him to drive balls into the gaps consistently. Lennerton played on the Canadian National Team, and was drafted out of high school in the 50th round of the 2004 draft by the Toronto Blue Jays.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

El Paso CC Baseball page

NJCAA Baseball page

 

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42. Chris Copot, C (Lethbridge CC, Alberta, Canada, playing for Prairie Baseball Academy)

 

The Brewers controlled Copot's signing rights through last spring as a draft and follow candidate, drafting him in the 35th round of the 2004 draft. Copot is a left-handed hitting catcher that has some thunder in his bat with a powerful 6'3", 185 pound frame that allowed him to be a hard-hitting defenseman in hockey growing up in Calgary.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Prairie Baseball Academy

 

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43. Kyle Eveland, 2B (College of the Canyons, CA)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/kyle_eveland.jpg

 

Kyle Eveland is the younger brother of Dana Eveland, who pitched out of the Milwaukee Brewers bullpen last year after being called up from AA Huntsville in mid-July. Kyle is a smaller yet strongly built middle infielder that projects as a second baseman at the professional level. While he doesn't have one tool that stands out head and shoulders above the rest, he is solid across the board. Eveland makes up with his lack of eye-popping tools with an aggressive approach to the game. He is a contact hitter with quick hands that thinks up the middle and he has consistent defense with soft hands and a good arm.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

College of the Canyons Baseball page

 

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44. George Washington, RF (Central Alabama JC)

 

Washington has a very lean and athletic build that has plenty of room for added strength. He has two very good tools in his speed and his arm, which will allow him to play any of the three outfield positions. With his speed, Washington covers a good deal of ground in the outfield and is a threat on the basepaths despite needing more work on his jumps. As a left-handed hitter, he sprays balls to the gaps and could develop a lot more power when his body fills out. Washington will also be used as a righ-handed pitcher at Central Alabama CC armed with a 90 mph fastball, and he receives high marks for his character and coachability. He is also the consummate team player, as he helped propel his high school team to the state championship despite suffering a knee injury mid-season.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Central Alabama CC Baseball page

NJCAA Baseball page

 

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45. Ulrich Snijders, C (St. Petersburg College, FL)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/ulrich_snijders.jpg

 

Snijders hit .340 for St. Petersburg College a year ago, the defending state Junior College Champions in Florida. A native of Curacao, Snijders attended the Perfect Game World Showcase in January of 2004 and grabbed the attention of the scouts in attendance with a very strong performance both offensively and defensively. His cannon for an arm rates as his best tool, and he also shows very good potential at the plate with a quick, level swing that generates a fair amount of power. With a strong build and good tools, Snijders is definitely a player to watch this spring, particularly with the Brewers organizational need for catchers. He was drafted out of high school in 2004 in the 40th round by the Diamondbacks.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

St. Petersburg College Baseball page

NJCAA Baseball page

 

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48. Frederick Lewis, LHP (Daytona Beach CC, FL)

 

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y155/colbyjack/freddie_lewis.jpg

 

At 6'2", 185 pounds, Lewis has a perfect pitcher's frame. He is the third of three intriguing, projectable left-handed pitchers on this list, a position the Brewers have had some luck with using the DFE process (Manny Parra, Dana Eveland, Derek Miller).

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Daytona Beach CC Baseball page

Daytona Beach CC Player Profile

NJCAA Baseball page

 

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50. Garrett Regan, OF (Lethbridge CC, Alberta, Canada, playing for Prairie Baseball Academy)

 

Regan, like Copot, attends Lethbridge Community College while playing for the Prairie Baseball Academy. Regan is the third DFE candidate to play for the PBA the past two years along with Copot and Ryan Patterson, another DFE candidate from a year ago. Also like Copot, Regan was a hard-hitting defenseman in hockey as a high school player, and drew some interest to play hockey in college. Given his large, powerful frame he has decided to pursue baseball, and is yet another Canadian prospect the Brewers and Team Canada (Doug Melvin and Gord Ash) have decided to follow.

 

Brewerfan.net Draft Day page

Prairie Baseball Academy

 

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  • 4 weeks later...

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From Slam!, up north of the border:

 

(Tim) Smith hit .468 and knocked in 55 runs, with 16 doubles, four triples and eight homers. Smith was selected in the 17th round by the Milwaukee Brewers, the 11th Canuck selected.

 

Link to full article on the best Canadian prospects playing in U.S. colleges:

 

slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Baseba...16246.html

 

colbyjack, can you update us specifically as to what Smith is all about? Thanks.

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colbyjack, can you update us specifically as to what Smith is all about? Thanks.

 

Since you asked nicely, I provide you with Tim Smith's snippet from my DFE story, which is just a few profiles away from being ready for the homepage:

 

1. Timothy Smith (17-draft round), RF (Midland College, TX)

Smith is a powerfully built outfield prospect at 6?2?, 225 pounds from Toronto. He set the single season batting average record at Midland College during his freshman year (.468) as well as the single-season mark for on-base percentage (.553). Smith, a left-handed hitter, has proven to hit for power with a wood bat, as Canadian prep players don?t use aluminum bats. He was a 21st round draft pick by the New York Mets coming out of high school in 2004, and was a member of the Team Canada Junior National Team for two years. Given how high the Brewers drafted Smith it is likely he will be in the organization by June with another good year at the plate.

 

I heard from a Mets fan that Smith not signing had more to do with visa issues than lack of talent, and I'm guessing that's why he isn't already in the Brewers system. The Brewers have shown that they're likely to sign the DFE candidates drafted early (Lorenzo Cain, Darren Ford, Joel Rivera, Justin Barnes, Dana Eveland & Adam Mannon being the notable examples), which means that it's likely Smith and even Zach Braddock, in my mind the most talented of all of the Brewers' DFE candidates, are good bets to be in the organization come June.

 

By the way, I just picked up a book entitled "The Northern Game-Baseball the Canadian Way," by Bob Elliott, the writer of the story shown in the link Mass Haas provided. It's two books away from being read, but I wanted to read it with particular interest in Team Canada.

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Link while active, text follows:

 

www.mywesttexas.com/site/...&rfi=6

 

Lofty GoalsSmith, Chaparrals look to regain their WJCAC swagger

Oscar Leroy, Sports Writer

Midland (TX) Reporter-Telegram

 

There are some lofty expectations surrounding Midland College sophomore baseball player Tim Smith this season. But that's nothing compared to the expectations Tim Smith has for himself and his team.

 

Last year, the 6-foot-2, 215-pound Smith had one of the best hitting seasons in Midland College history as he set school records for batting average (.468) and on-base percentage. He also hit eight home runs and had 55 RBIs.

 

All of the above were fantastic numbers, but unfortunately for the Chaparrals it wasn't enough to overcome a 38-16 season and a seventh place finish in the Western Junior College Athletic Conference.

 

"At times it was stressful," said Smith about last year, "but you can't let those things get to you and that's what I like about this team. It seems like we have more depth. It is a team game. We have more players to help you when things are going rough. I like how this team competes every day. It seems like everyone gives a full effort."

 

Smith is being looked at by sixth-year head coach Steve Ramharter to help turn things around this year after the 2005 season when the Chaps got off to a fabulous 19-0 start only to stumble in WJCAC play.

 

"Last year we had a lot of talent but when it came to games that counted, I don't think the players cared enough," Ramharter said. Smith is "really our only offensive returner that played a lot. We're expecting big things from him. He's a man among boys out there."

 

Ramharter said Smith not only has a major-league body, but is someone who is also a baseball junkie, a player who loves to hit and is always working on his game.

 

The Chaparrals may have struck gold twice with Smith. The first time was when they signed the Toronto, Alberta, Canada, native he was a 21st round draft pick by the New York Mets. But because it was difficult for any foreign player to get a work visa due to 9/11, Smith could not sign and chose the junior college route instead.

 

Last June, Smith was a 17th round pick of the Milwaukee Brewers, but then offseason arm surgery to go with failed preliminary contract negotiations once again stalled his chances of going pro.

 

"At first it was a disappointment because I really wanted to get into pro ball, but it's good to come back and things look to be better than last year," said Smith, whose draft rights still belong to the Brewers until this June.

 

"I really wanted to sign, but because I had arm trouble last year, it hurt my cause. Definitely pro ball's in my heart but I'm not going to be forced into it. It definitely has be the right time."

 

Smith is not the only Chaparral on the roster who was drafted last summer. Sophomore right-handed pitcher Brad Cuthbertson, another Canadian, was drafted in the sixth round by the San Francisco Giants. But like Smith, Cuthbertson chose to remain in junior college for another year to polish his skills.

 

Smith said his time in Midland has not only helped him become a better player but a better person.

 

"I've definitely matured since I got here," he said. "Just being away from home, you have to do the little things yourself. I think it's going to help me out in the long run. As you mature as a person, you definitely grow mentally. As a player I like being here because I can do all the work I need to do. They've got all the facilities I need and all the work I put in is right there for me if I want it."

 

Smith said he likes being a returner because now he knows what is expected out of him and knows what his team needs to do to be successful.

 

"Last year was all mechanical," said Smith, a Baseball America Preseason All-American. "This year I just want to play my game and just go out there everyday and contribute to the team."

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As you can see, the 2006 DFE preview feature is up on the homepage. I have added those profiles to this thread for easy reference.

 

Several of the players' seasons have already started. While it's hard to get updates from many to most of the JC websites, a few keep up to date in this day and age of information.

 

Taylor Green

http://pe.cypresscollege.edu/sports/men/images/base060127.jpg

 

No stats for Green, but his picture was on Cypress College's baseball page after he had a 2 for 4 performance with a HR.

 

Patrick Murray

Murray is hitting .250/.333/.292 on the young season in 24 ABs (1 double, 2:3 BB:K ratio). For a guy that is being followed for his power, Murray's slugging % obviously is going to have to climb. He only has one putout this year, so it's clear he's playing as the DH at Santa Ana.

 

Spencer Pennington

Alabama's season was supposed to start last night, but that game was postponed until today due to the weather.

 

Stephen Barnes

Lake City does a great job keeping their stats updated. Barnes in two starts is 1-0 with a 0.90 ERA. In 10 IP he has given up 1 ER, 10 hits and 6 walks with 6 strikeouts, holding opposing batters to a .206 BA.

 

I will also be following Barnes' teammates, local products Tyler Beranek and Brandon Hall, this spring. Beranek is hitting .265/.324/.324 in 34 ABs so far this year with 2 2B and a 2:10 BB:K ratio, while Hall is hitting .393/.514/.643 in 28 ABs with 1 2B, 2 HR and a 7:5 BB:K ratio.

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It's always exciting to read about the DFE's. Thanks, Colby.

 

My three favorites to follow this spring are Braddock, Ramlow, and Copot. Braddock was one of my favorites on draft day, and I was hoping they'd sign him healthy to compete with Steve Garrison this year, but it looks like it'll take a year with Chipola, whom you have to highly regard. Ramlow sounds intriguing - the last time the Brewers drafted someone with his measurables, they drafted Corey Hart. And I like Copot just because the Jack Z. has stuck with him... the Brewers have DFE'd a few guys now for a few years in a row, with good results, namely Tim Dillard. Copot should be a Brewer eventually. They don't usually draft guys 2 years without signing them.

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  • 2 weeks later...

Some notes on a couple of the Brewers' Canadian DFEs from Slam! Sports player of the week feature (adding updates from a link Mass Haas provided above):

 

...OF Tim Smith (sophomore, Toronto, Ont.) and RHP Brad Cuthbertson (sophomore, Sherwood Park, Alta.), of the Midland Chapparals earned berths on the Baseball America's Pre-Season All-America Team. Smith has been drafted twice by two separate organizations (by the New York Mets took in the 22nd round in 2004 and the Milwaukee Brewers selected him in the 17th). Cuthbertson was taken in the sixth round of last year's draft by the San Francisco Giants...

 

...Jordan Lennerton (sophomore, Langley, BC) took the loss in a El Paso Tejanos 9-1 setback against Chandler-Gilnert the annual Glendale tournament at Chandler, Az. Lennerton pitched 7 1/3 innings allowing six hits and eight unearned runs, as he walked one and struck out three. Lennerton singled in a 2-2, 10-inning tie against Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Az. Lennerton singled in a 4-2 loss to Mesa...

 

...LHP Jordan Lennerton (sophomore, Langley, BC) pitched five innings as the El Paso Tejanos beat Pima 8-3 at Tejano Field in El Paso, Tx. Lennerton allowed five hits and two runs -- one earned -- while walking two and striking out three. 1B Lennerton had two hits in a 10-7 loss to Pima. Lennerton doubled in a run 5-2 win over Eastern Arizona in Thatcher, Az. Lennerton singled and knocked in a pair of runs in the nitecap a 14-9 loss. Lennerton was 3-for-3, with a double and an RBI in a 14-2 win over Eastern Arizona at El Paso. He also doubled in a run in the second game of the doubleheader, an 11-6 win...

 

...Tim Smith (sophomore, Toronto, Ont.) had three hits and drove in five runs as the Midland Chaparrals beat the Wayland Baptist JVs 14-0 in the season opener. Smith had a two-run triple in the third inning in a 6-0 win over Wayland Baptist...

 

Interesting that Lennerton is also getting some looks as a LHP.

 

Taylor Green

http://pe.cypresscollege.edu/sports/men/images/base060218.jpg

 

Green is showing his power stroke so far this season, although he could bring up his BA a little. In 45 ABs he's hitting .289/.373/.600 with 3 2Bs, 1 3B and 3 HRs with a 4:3 BB:K ratio.

 

Patrick Murray is now hitting .325/.372/.525 in 40 ABs for Santa Ana College. He has 2 doubles and 2 dingers.

 

For whatever reason, none of Alabama's stat pages are working, so I'm unable to provide the early numbers for Spencer Pennington.

 

Their stat page is almost 2 weeks without an update, but Northeastern Oklahoma's A&M's Sebastien Vendette had a 4.91 ERA after his first start in which he went 3.2 innings giving up 5 hits, 2 ER, 2 BBs while striking out 2. None of the hits he gave up went for extra bases.

 

Lake City CC has one of the most informative sites out there for a JC, and RHP Stephen Barnes already has 5 starts under his belt. Overall he is 2-1 with a 1.53 ERA, 29 IP, 27 H, 17 K, 12 BB.

 

Local Update: Tyler Beranek is now hitting .305/.388/.356 in 59 ABs while Brandon Hall is hitting .267/.371/.400 over 60 ABs.

 

Chris Hopkins is off to a good start, hitting .333/.458/.422 in 45s ABs. He has 2 2Bs and a 3B, and has exhibited nice on-base abilities with a 7:2 BB:K ratio to go along with 5 HBPs. He is 6 for 9 in stolen base attempts.

 

Cowley College used to have good stat updates, two years ago on their own site, and last year on NJCAA, but nothing doing so far (3 games). According to the game recaps I can tell you that SS Brad Miller opened the season with a 3-hit performance.

 

Jordan Lennerton as noted above is being used as both a hitter and a pitcher, and has been successful in both aspects so far this season. As a hitter he's hitting .352 in 54 ABs with 3 2B and a HR. As a pitcher he has a 1.04 ERA over 17.1 IP, having given up 19 H, 13 R (only 2 earned!) and 8 BBs with 9 Ks.

 

College of the Canyons hasn't updated their stats since mid-March 2005, so I can't tell you of Kyle Eveland's exploits this spring.

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  • 3 weeks later...

DFE update as of 3/13/06

Keep in mind, it's not easy finding stats on all of these guys, and the ones provided by NJCAA's site are a little more basic.

 

Tim Smith

Hitting .444 in 18 ABs with two doubles (I'm guessing these stats aren't up to date)

 

Taylor Green

.272/.366/.469 in 81 AB, 5 2B, 1 3B, 3 HR, 9 BB, 6 K

 

Patrick Murray

.340/.389/.500 in 50 AB, 2 2B, 2 HR, 3 BB, 5 K

 

Spencer Pennington

.270/.372/.270 in 37 AB, 5 BB, 6 K

 

Sebastien Vendette

7.59 ERA, 10.2 IP, 11 H, 12 K, 9 BB

 

Stephen Barnes

2-4, 2.91 ERA, 11 games (7 starts), 43 IP, 42 H, 27 K, 17 BB

 

Jordan Lennerton

.405/.526/.486 in 74 AB, 3 2B, 1 HR, 20 BB, 13 K, 4 for 5 SBs

3-2, 1.95 ERA, 5 games (all starts), 27.2 IP, 23 H, 17 K, 16 BB, .217 BAA

 

Kyle Eveland

.298/.355/.368 in 57 AB, 4 2B, 5 BB, 14 K

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Brewer Fanatic Staff

18. Zack Braddock, LHP (Chipola College, FL)

 

The Brewers have followed the Chipola program closely in recent years, signing Darren Ford from there a year ago as a DFE and selecting Mat Gamel in the fourth round of last year's draft. Braddock has the perfect, athletic pitcher's build at 6'4", 225 pounds, and when you throw in the fact that he's left-handed he automatically becomes arguably the most exciting DFE candidate to watch this spring. He had Tommy John surgery during the summer of 2004, otherwise he may have been drafted within the top five rounds of the 2005 draft. Last spring recovering from surgery, Braddock's velocity returned to the upper-80s, maxing out at 89 miles per hour. Scouts were still hesitant with him as he didn't throw too many curveballs, which will be the true test on his healing elbow. If Braddock stays healthy he is likely to sign with the Brewers this spring.

 

colbyjack, turns out that Zach Braddock chose to stay close to home and is on the roster at Burlington County College in New Jersey, instead of Chipola.

 

staff.bcc.edu/athletics/b...r_2006.htm

 

Looks like Burlington just wrapped up their Florida swing, no statistics available via their site.

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Brewer Fanatic Staff

Lefty Zach Braddock's latest start in New Jersey:

 

Garrett Mull had three hits and Andrew Lydon added a pair, as the Burlington County College baseball team defeated Camden County, 5-2. Mull drew a walk and scored four runs. Lydon drove in a pair.

 

Zach Braddock was the winning pitcher. He struck out 15 over eight innings of one-hit ball.

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  • 2 weeks later...

DFE update as of 4/3/06

Usual disclaimer of information restrictions...

 

Tim Smith

.459/.550/.714 in 98 AB, 16 2B, 3 3B, 1 HR, 18:10 BB:K, 10 for 10 SBs

Midland College finally updated their stat page, and Smith has some good ones to share. Not much HR power, but I like the patience, contact bat, doubles and surprising stolen base speed.

 

Taylor Green

.267/.380/.455 in 101 AB, 5 2B, 1 3B, 4 HR, 16:8 BB:K

Green has a good eye, I just wish he would heat up with the bat as far as hits are concerned. Who knows, maybe he's getting pitched around, but I don't think so looking at the rest of Cypress' stats.

 

Patrick Murray

.329/.368/.471 in 70 AB, 4 2B, 2 HR, 4:10 BB:K

Back from mononucleosis. He's still hitting well, but his calling card is power, and hopefully he'll get the mono out of his system and re-find his power stroke.

 

Spencer Pennington

.315/.398/.342 in 73 AB, 2 2B, 8:15 BB:K, 1-1 SBs, 3 Es

I got to see Pennington play over the weekend, and I can see why scouts would like him given his frame, as he's the perfect baseball athlete physically with naturally sloped hitting shoulders. His average has increased, but with his size you would like to see more power.

 

Sebastien Vendette

2-1, 3.65 ERA, 5 games (all starts), 24.2 IP, 15 H, 30 K, 14 BB, 0 HR, .174 BAA

Vendette may have some bouts with wildness given the walk totals, but he looks to be rather unhittable.

 

Stephen Barnes

2-4, 3.25 ERA, 15 games (7 starts), 1 save, 55 IP, 56 H, 35 K, 24 BB, 2 HR, .265 BAA

Things started well for Barnes, but his move to the bullpen seems permanent, and he's not pitching his way back to the rotation with his success lately.

 

Chris Hopkins

.314/.417/.384 in 86 AB, 4 2B, 1 3B, 12:7 BB:K, 14-18 SBs

Hopkins has a nice eye at the plate, and some nifty stolen base speed, but he needs to show a little more power than just another contact bat to warrant a pro contract.

 

Brad Miller

.282 BA, 3 2B, 1 3B in 39 AB, 2 stolen bases

9.00 ERA, 5 IP, 7 H, 3 K, 4 BB

Stats are very incomplete coming from NJCAA site. Hard to comment, but thought I'd throw them out there. Cowley used to have one of the more up-to-date JC sites out there (hint hint).

 

Jordan Lennerton

.402/.519/.575 in 127 AB, 7 2B, 5 HR, 30:13 BB:K, 6-7 SBs

4-4, 4.57 ERA, 8 games (all starts), 41.1 IP, 54 H, 28 K, 21 BB, 2 HR, .309 BAA

Lennerton has found his power stroke since the last update, boosting his SLG by nearly 100 points. It's clear his future isn't on the mound despite respectable totals. He along with Smith are the DFEs to watch, at least statistically.

 

Kyle Eveland

.329/.409/.427 in 82 AB, 5 2B, 1 HR, 11:18 BB:K

Lil' Eveland has turned it up since the last update. The Brewerfan.net nation would love to welcome another Eveland to the family.

 

George Washington

.189 batting average in 37 AB, no extra-base hits and one stolen base

I'm not sure if these stats courtesy of NJCAA or even worth posting. It seems his lackluster start has definitely effected his playing time.

 

Thanks to Mass Haas for including a few Zach Braddock updates as he can find him. I still believe he's the most exciting of the '06 DFE candidates, and hopefully both he and Smith will be playing in Helena come June.

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Quote:
Jordan Lennerton

.402/.519/.575 in 127 AB, 7 2B, 5 HR, 30:13 BB:K, 6-7 SBs

4-4, 4.57 ERA, 8 games (all starts), 41.1 IP, 54 H, 28 K, 21 BB, 2 HR, .309 BAA

Lennerton has found his power stroke since the last update, boosting his SLG by nearly 100 points. It's clear his future isn't on the mound despite respectable totals. He along with Smith are the DFEs to watch, at least statistically.


 

I live right by El Paso, might try to catch the game they play against NMJC later in the month. Didn't realize we had a Brewer right by me.

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DFE update as of 5/1/06

Only a few weeks left before we start to see some of these players signed. My early money is on Smith and Braddock for sure.

 

Tim Smith

.442/.526/.692 in 156 AB, 18 2B, 3 3B, 5 HR, 24:16 BB:K, 19 for 21 SB

There is nothing in this line not to like, he can hit, hit for power, and has some speed to swipe bases.

 

Zach Braddock

7 games, 4.63 ERA, 35 IP, 32 H, 34 K, 16 BB

NJCAA site finally adds Braddock's numbers, too many BBs, but the rest is good.

 

Taylor Green

.317/.414.510 in 145 AB, 11 2B, 1 3B, 5 HR, 20:10 BB:K, 3 for 3 SB

Green is hitting better, but his power has slowed.

 

Patrick Murray

.330/.381/.466 in 103 AB, 5 2B, 3 HR, 7:15 BB:K

The organization needs more Patrick's, his power really seemed to get sapped after a bout with mononucleosis.

 

Spencer Pennington

.306/.394/.342 in 111 AB, 4 2B, 14:28 BB:K, 2 for 2 SB, 6 E

You can't scoff at hitting .306 in the SEC, but there is little to no power from such an athletic and big guy.

 

Brock Kjeldgaard

5 W, 4.50 ERA, 40 IP, 37 K

Thanks to one of the few DFE followers out there for providing stats on Kjeldgaard, who is also hitting .326 with 7 dingers this spring.

 

Sebastien Vendette

4-4, 3.67 ERA, 10 games (all starts), 2 CG, 49 IP, 34 H, 48 K, 32 BB, .191 BAA, 1 HR

A really good season line for Vendette minus the lofty walk totals.

 

Stephen Barnes

3-4, 2.98 ERA, 19 games (7 starts), 63 IP, 62 H, 40 K, 27 BB, .256 BAA, 2 HR

Barnes hasn't started since early in the season.

 

Chris Hopkins

.317/.415/.413 in 126 AB, 5 2B, 2 3B, 1 HR, 18:12 BB:K, 19 for 25 SB

Still showing a contact bat and a good eye with good speed.

 

Jordan Lennerton

.416/.538/.671 in 173 AB, 14 2B, 10 HR, 45:20 BB:K, 7 for 8 SB, 3 E

Lennerton gives Smith some competition for the best pure statistical performer among DFEs...45 BBs!

 

Kyle Eveland

.373/.448/.483 in 118 AB, 7 2B, 2 HR, 16:21 BB:K

Good year for lil' Eveland, hopefully it's good enough to join the system by the end of the month.

 

George Washington

.196 batting average in 56 AB, 30 games played, 0 XBH, 2 SB

Things aren't getting much better for Washington, who is also pitching.

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Brewer Fanatic Staff

From colbyjack's initial summary post above:

 

35th round. Sebastien Vendette, RHP (Northeastern Oklahoma A&M, OK)

 

Throw another Canadian onto the list, as Vendette hails from Laval, Quebec, and played with the Canadian Junior National Team in 2004. His fastball is already a plus pitch, topping out at 94 and working comfortably in the 90-92 range. Vendette has worked hard to improve his slider and changeup, and projects as Northeastern Oklahoma A&M's number one or two starting pitcher. He may profile best as a short-reliever down the road, as he shows better velocity and actually pitches better on shorter rest with what some may call a rubber arm. Vendette has signed on to play with Oklahoma State for the 2006-07 season if he doesn't sign either this spring or summer to play professionally.

 

Check out this no-hit line from earlier in the year:

 

www.neoam.edu/~baseball/R...Game1.html

 

From SLAM!'s lengthy update on Canadian ballplayers:

 

slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Baseba...09-ca.html

 

And how the week went for Vendette and his battery mate:

 

Jodoin-Mimeault went 3-for-5, hitting three doubles in a 9-1 win over the Rose State Raiders at Midwest City, Oak.

 

Then, Vendette pitched the Golden Norse to a 1-0 win with his no hit win over the Redlands Cougars at Homa Thomas Field in Miami, Oak.

 

There wasn't any mound celebration or Yogi Berra jumping into Don Larsen's arms like the New York Yankees World Series no-no. And with good reason. Vendette put up his string of seven zeros, before the Norsemen pushed ahead the game winner in the bottom of the seventh.

 

He struck out 10 on his way to his no hitter, but it was not his first. He pitched one or the Concorde de Laval peewees.

 

Drafted by the Florida Marlins in 2004 (36th round) and the Milwaukee Brewers (35 round) in 2005 draft, Vendette faced only 22 batters, one more over than the minimum. He allowed three walks and two of the three were erased: one on a double play and the other on a steal attempt, as Jodoin-Mimeault erased the steal attempt.

 

Vendette's fastballs were routinely clocked at 90 miles per hour.

 

After a rough initial start vs. Pearl River in 40-degree weather, Vendette had a better second outing. He pitched allowing seven runs -- two earned -- on only four hits in six innings. He struck out nine in the glove, allowing four walks and hitting a man.

 

On the season Vendette is 1-1, with a 4.58 ERA, recording 22 strikeouts.

 

How Vendette recorded the 21 outs, as it went something like this:

 

1st - a fly ball to left, strike out looking and strike out.

 

2nd - a pop up to the catcher; pop up to second, a walk and a strike out.

 

3rd - a strike out, strike out and a strike out looking.

 

4th - a strike out, ground ball to second and a line out to right.

 

5th - a walk, fly ball to centre and a double-play ground ball to second.

 

6th - a ground ball to short, pop up to first and a strike out.

 

7th - a strike out, strike out looking, a walk and the runner was thrown out attempting to steal.

 

So, Vendette recorded two fly ball outs, four ground ball out, one line drive out, three pop ups and 10 strikeouts.

 

In the bottom of the seventh, Vendette's battery mate, Jodoin-Mimeault led off with a walk. A pinch runner was erased at second. Two singles and a game-winning hit set off the celebrations.

 

As a freshman, Vendette was 5-6 with a 4.60 ERA, working 62 2/3 innings.

 

***

RHP Brock Kjeldgaard (sophomore, London, Ont.) pitched 5 2/3 innings as the 5th-ranked Indian Hills Falcons beat Cochise 6-1 in the Pima Community College wood bat tournament in Tucson, Az. Pitching for coach Cam Walker (Winnipeg, Man.), Kjeldgaard allowed only three hits and one run while striking out five in 5 2/3 innings It was his first win of the spring. He walked four and struck out five. Kjeldgaard hit two homers in a 9-4 win over the Langley Blaze. He put the Falcons up 2-0 in the first with a two-run homer and connected on a second two-run blast in IHCC's third-inning rally. In all, he had three hits and four RBIs, including a double. Kjeldgaard singled in a 5-0 win over Madison Tech. Kjeldgaard had a terrific week on the mound and at the plate. In two starts and he gave up only one run on three hits while striking out 13 in 9 2/3 innings. He went 7 for 13 at the plate with two home runs, two doubles, five RBIs and a stolen base. Indian Hills was the only undefeated team of 13 teams in the tournament undefeated (6-0). And this besides disproving the "getting there is half the fun" theory. After a gruelling 23 hour the Falcons arrived in Tuscon. 12 and 1 during their spring trip. As a reward, their bus broke down 100 miles outside of Oklahoma City and resulted in a 41-hour bus ride home.

 

Jordan Lennerton (sophomore, Langley, BC) singled and knocked in a run as the El Paso Tejanos beat Cochise 5-1 in the Pima Community College Wood Bat tournament at Tuscon, Az. Lennerton had two hits and knocked in a run in an 8-1 victory over Gateway. He knocked in a run in a 10-3 loss to Pima. Lennerton had two hits, including a double, in a 10-2 loss to Arizona Western. Lennerton took the loss allowing seven runs -- two earned -- on 10 hits and one walk, as he fanned three.

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Brewer Fanatic Staff

Lefty Zach Braddock's most recent two starts in New Jersey for his junior college:

 

6 IP, 2 R, 8 K's

 

5 no-hit innings (game called after five), 10 K's, one walk -- postseason game

 

Still one of the highlights of the DFE class this year...

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I found some info on Mike Ramlow, a left handed pitcher selected in the 24th round out of Owens CC and Jorge Core, right handed pitcher picked in the 33rd round.

 

For Mike Ramlow:

2-1, 1.74 ERA, 9 Games, 41 IP, 19 R, 8 ER, 36 Hits, 62 K's, 10 BB's.

 

 

Also, a little older news, but Mike was named player of the week back in April

 

Wednesday, April 12, 2006- 04:26 PM

OCCAC Players of the Week

This weeks Ohio Community College Athletic Conference players of the week are Jenna Senita, Lakeland Community College, and Mike Ramlow, Owens Community College.

 

Jenna Senita is a sophmore 1st base/catcher for the conference leading Lakers softball team. Senita went 7 for 8 in 2 wins last week, driving in 5 runs on 4 doubles and a triple.

 

Mike Ramlow, a sophmore pitcher for the Owen's Express baseball team, threw 8 innings in a dramatic 14 inning win over Lakeland Community College. Ramlow gave up one run in the game and struck out 13.

 

Congratulations to these fine OCCAC athletes!

 

 

For Jorge Core:

1 Win, 2 Saves, 4.75 ERA, 69 K's.

 

The 69 strikeouts led the Iowa Community College Athletic Conference.

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Most of the seasons for the Brewers DFE candidates have ended. There still aren't stats available for all of the players, but I have located the stats of a few players we haven't had anything on all season.

 

As noted on the minor league forum, one DFE player has been signed, catcher Ulrich Snijders.

 

I should note that there isn't any one player that has stepped up this year. The Brewers are expected to sign a few of these players like they always do, but don't be surprised if they don't go out of their way to sign some of the more intriguing players, even the ones with big numbers.

 

Tim Smith

.450/.541/.700 in 180 AB, 22 2B, 4 3B, 5 HR, 32:18 BB:K, 23 for 25 SBs, 2 Es

An amazing season statistically for Smith, who did a little bit of everything offensively for Midland. I'm sure the Brewers didn't use a 17th round pick for nothing with Smith, and likely will try to get him inked.

 

Zach Braddock

8 games, 4.05 ERA, 40 IP, 32 H, 44 K, 17 BB

The peripherals are all solid, and I have it on good record that Braddock's ERA was skewed by one really bad outing. The Brewers are actively pursuing getting Braddock signed since his season eneded last weekend.

 

Michael Ramlow

9 games, 1.74 ERA, 41.1 IP, 36 H, 62 K, 10 BB

Very good peripheral ratios for Ramlow. Here's to the Brewers getting this lanky lefty signed.

 

Taylor Green

.333/.426/.558 in 165 AB, 14 2B, 1 3B, 7 HR, 22:10 BB:K, 3 for 3 SBs

Very good offensive numbers for a second baseman, too bad he doesn't play SS. He's a left-handed hitter, which adds to his value, and if signed he would likely join the Steve Sollmann's and Kenny Holmberg's of the system, beginning to fill a very large void between Rickie Weeks and the Brewers starting 2B in 2024.

 

Patrick Murray

.330/.381/.466 in 103 AB, 5 2B, 3 HR, 7:15 BB:K

It's too bad that Murray got mononucleosis a couple of weeks into the system, as his power didn't seem to re-appear upon his return. He clearly has some offensive potential, but he may be better heading back to Santa Ana for his sophomore year. Stay away from the cooties Patrick http://forum.brewerfan.net/images/smilies/smile.gif .

 

Spencer Pennington

.318/.392/.394 in 132 AB, 4 2B, 2 HR, 14:28 BB:K, 2 for 2 SBs, 6 Es

Listing Pennington is probably more of a formality at this point, as Alabama's season probably won't be over in time for the Brewers to sign him.

 

Jorge Core

69 Ks, 2 saves

Not many stats available for Core, but he's leading all Iowa JCs in strikeouts pitching in a relief role. His arm has never been in question, and those numbers are impressive in a tough conference.

 

Brock Kjeldgaard

5 wins, 38 K

Similar to Core, not many stats available for Kjeldgaard, but he is among the league leaders in wins and strikeouts. His name appears in more offensive categories, particularly in the power categories. The Brewers drafted him as a RHP, but it wouldn't be completely surprising if his power potential changes their mind in how they would like to procure him.

 

Sebastien Vendette

5-4, 3.54 ERA, 11 games (all starts), 2 CG, 53.1 IP, 37 H, 49 K, 33 BB, 1 HR, .194 BAA

Vendette limited hits against, but walked way too many. One start is missing from his stats, his final start of the year in which he lost in the conference playoffs. His team eventually loss in the finals. The stuff is there for Vendette, but the control is not, which is basically where he started the season.

 

Stephen Barnes

3-4, 2.98 ERA, 19 games (7 starts), 1 save, 63 IP, 62 H, 40 K, 27 BB, 2 HR, .256 BAA

Barnes started the season in the rotation, was placed in the bullpen, and just seemed to stagnate. No sure what the story is, but I don't sense that the interest is there from the Brewers, or Lake City for that matter.

 

Sidenote: Lake City's Brandon Hall (Brookfield Central) finished the season hitting .265/.382/.397 while Tyler Beranek (Waukesha South) finished hitting .290/.374/.425.

 

Chris Hopkins

.307/.400/.387 in 150 AB, 5 2B, 2 3B, 1 HR, 19:15 BB:K, 22 for 30 SBs

A good season for Hopkins, one of the better ones for all of the DFEs, but I'm not sure if it's enough for him to be signed. I do like his trained eye at the plate, but he needs some work on the basepaths, and he likely will never hit for a lot of power.

 

Brad Miller

.337 batting average in 172 AB, 52 games, 14 2B, 4 3B, 4 HR, 27 SB

Nice overall offensive numbers for Miller, who also logged 13 innings on the mound. The Brewers obviously liked something in Miller when they drafted him and opted not to sign Deik Scram a year ago.

 

Jordan Lennerton

.416/.538/.671 in 173 AB, 14 2B, 10 HR, 45:20 BB:K, 7 for 8 SBs, 3 Es

Lennerton's numbers give Smith's and Ramlow's a run for their money for the most impressive statistical season of the Brewers' DFEs. The 45 walks in 173 ABs is particularly impressive.

 

Chris Copot

No stats available

No stats, no updates, no nothing after spending two years as a Brewers draft & follow candidate.

 

Kyle Eveland

.359/.438/.479 in 142 AB, 11 2B, 2 HR, 20:24 BB:K, 1 for 1 SBs

Lil' Eveland made a late push to be signed, hitting over .400 in conference play after starting the season slow.

 

George Washington

.196 batting average in 56 AB, 30 games, 2 SB

The numbers didn't change for Washington, who tossed 9.1 innings as a pitcher. Not a good season for Washington, don't expect him to be signed.

 

Ulrich Snijders

No stats available

No stats, but it doesn't matter anymore, as Snijders is a Brewer.

 

Freddie Lewis

No stats available

No stats, and Lewis' coach didn't return my inquiries. These JCs need to realize how much web information helps their players.

 

Garrett Regan

No stats available

Like Copot, I can't tell you much about Regan other than he is not the same Garrett Regan playing hockey for Notre Dame.

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Some Brock Kjelgaard news. Impressive outing in the Region XI tournament.

 

www.ottumwacourier.com/sp...81023.html

 

Falcons make it to regional finals with big weekend rally

 

By SCOTT JACKSON, Courier sports writer

 

CARROLL ? Indian Hills faced a long road to the regional championship after being upset by Marshalltown Friday.

 

Thus far, the Falcons are breezing down that road with what IHCC does best; dominant starting pitching and powerfully balanced hitting.

 

Sean Smith busted out of an 0-5 start at the plate to his postseason. The former state champion at Martensdale-St. Mary?s blasted more big hits at Carroll Stadium, nailing a double, a triple and pair of home runs in two Sunday elimination games.

 

The five-hit, five-RBI, five-run onslaught led IHCC to a 10-0, eight-inning revenge win over Marshalltown Sunday afternoon and an 8-0 win over Muscatine in the day?s final elimination game. A powerful three-game run, that began Saturday with a 9-0, seven-inning win over Southwestern, has taken the Falcons from near elimination to the final day of the Region XI Baseball Tournament.

 

?Everyone?s really kind of come together at the right time,? Indian Hills head coach Cam Walker said. ?We told these guys we were coaching to win the whole tournament. We talked about how we started out the season hot. We know we?re capable of winning 12 in row like we did in Arizona.?

 

While the Falcon hitters are continuing to put plenty of runs on the scoreboard, the biggest difference this weekend proved to be dominant starting pitching. Matthew Davitt, Nathan Harbarts and Brock Kjeldgaard pitched all by a third of an inning over the past three games, each twirling shutouts while scattering just 13 hits over 24 innings.

 

Kjeldgaard the Falcons? run to the regional finals with the most impressive starting effort of the tournament thus far. The London, Ontorio sophomore shut down Muscatine on just three hits, losing a no-hit big on a bloop single in the sixth while striking out nine batters.

 

?Our pitchers have really stood up and stepped forward,? Walker said. ?The guys wanted to give their best effort. They had nothing to lose and they wanted to show.?

 

After going hitless through the first two games, Smith led a resilient effort by IHCC?s sophomore leaders at the plate. A solo home-run in the first inning against Marshalltown set the tone every IHCC star to step up, including lead-off hitter Raymond Kruml who nailed three hits including two RBI singles against Muscatine.

 

?Sean really felt like he wasn?t contributing as much as he would like to,? Walker said. ?He and Raymond both had great regular seasons, but this is the postseason. I think both guys really came into Sunday wanting to bring their level of play back up.?

 

Drew Laidig continued a solid postseason by nailing five hits Sunday, including a 3-5, four-RBI effort against Marshalltown. Catcher Daniel Towe, held out of IHCC?s first two postseason games, responded in his first game action of the tournament by nailing a deep home run as the Falcons avenged Friday?s 11-10 shocker to the Tigers.

 

Indian Hills (47-12) is back in a very familiar situation as the Falcons head into another regional championship Monday. As has been the case in three of the last four years, 17th-ranked IHCC will have to knock off their old nemesis, No. 10 Iowa Western (35-10), twice today beginning at 11 a.m. for another come-from-behind Region XI Championship.

 

?The guys need to prepare themselves for what they need to do. We have to win that first game to get the second game,? Walker said. ?We?ve coached this team all the way to be in this position, that?s all we could ask for. We?re in the best position possible.?

 

Indian Hills 9, Southwestern 0 (7)

 

Indian Hills 141 002 1 ? 9 12 0

 

Southwestern 000 000 0 ? 0 4 5

 

IHCC battery ? Matthew Davitt (W, 7-2) (7IP, 4H, 8K, 2BB), Drew Laidig catching.

 

2B ? Laidig, Eric Ogden.

 

Hits ? Jorge Quintero 3-5, Francisco Vega 2-2, Angel Suarez 2-4, Ogden 2-5, Raymond Kruml 1-3, Aaron Shindler 1-3, Laidig 1-4.

 

RBI ? Ogden 2, Quintero 2, Kruml, Laidig, Vega.

 

Runs ? Kruml 2, Vega 2, Laidig, Ogden, Quintero, Sean Smith, Suarez.

 

Southwestern battery ? Brad Venditello (L, 3-5) (2IP, 10H, 6R, 5ER, BB), Ryan Ratcliff (4IP, 2R, 2K, 3BB, 2HBP), Matt Serefko (IP, 2H, R, ER, HBP), Rafael Tejeda catching.

 

Hits ? Johnay Ramirez 2-3, Carlos Rodriguez 1-3, Serefko 1-3.

 

Indian Hills 10, Marshalltown 0 (8 Innings)

 

Indian Hills 111 200 14 ? 10 15 1

 

Marshalltown 000 000 00 ? 0 6 0

 

IHCC battery ? Nathan Harberts (W, 2-0) (7 2/3IP, 6H, 9K, 3BB), Shane Moss (1/3IP), Daniel Towe catching.

 

2B ? Smith.

 

3B ? Laidig.

 

HR ? Smith, Towe.

 

Hits ? Smith 3-4, Laidig 3-5, Towe 2-4, Aaron Shindler 2-5, Nick Nordgren 1-2, Kruml 1-4, Laidig 1-4, Ogden 1-4, Vega 1-4.

 

RBI ? Laidig 4, Smith 3, Ogden, Towe, Vega.

 

Runs ? Smith 3, Nordgren 2, Quintero 2, Laidig, Towe, Vega.

 

Marshalltown battery ? Georgie Rivera (L, 3-http://forum.brewerfan.net/images/smilies/glasses.gif (3 1/3IP, 8H, 5R, 5ER, 4K, 2BB), Jared Hegdahl (2/3IP, H), Manuel Casiano (3IP, 2H, R, ER, 2K, 2BB), Charles Moreland (IP, 4H, 4R, 4ER, K, 2BB), Kyle Lafrenz catching.

 

Hits ? Lafrenz 2-4, Mike Rector 2-4, Carl Fenceroy 1-1, Jose Goyco 1-2.

 

Indian Hills 8, Muscatine 0

 

Indian Hills 000 124 001 ? 8 9 0

 

Muscatine 000 000 000 ? 0 3 3

 

IHCC battery ? Brock Kjeldgaard (W, 6-4) (9IP, 3H, 9K, BB, HBP), Towe catching.

 

2B ? Laidig, Vega.

 

3B ? Smith.

 

HR ? Smith.

 

Hits ? Laidig 2-4, Vega 2-4, Kruml 2-5, Smith 2-5, Towe 1-5.

 

RBI ? Kruml 2, Smith 2, Towe.

 

Runs ? Kruml 2, Smith 2, Nordgren, Quintero, Shindler, Vega.

 

Muscatine battery ? Paul Morlow (L, 2-5) (5 2/3IP, 7H, 6R, 5ER, 3K, 4BB), Ben Dino (3 1/3IP, 2H, 2R, ER, K, HBP), Will Richards catching.

 

Hits ? Sonny Glover 1-4, Rick Evans 1-4, Richards 1-4.

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Brewerfan.net has learned that the Brewers have signed DFE LHP Michael Ramlow, one of the more intriguing candidates this year.

 

There may be one more DFE signing, but then that would be it. When and if the last one is announced (I'm assuming later today), I'll post a news story on the homepage.

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