The long-anticipated Triple-A debut of RHP and top prospect Andrew Painter is upon us. With minimal outings in Double-A Reading and the expectation for significant contribution to the Major League team later this season, this outing is somewhat unique and of the utmost importance. Here’s what you need to know about tonight’s game:
About Last Night
And, it was the bullpen again as the IronPigs dropped their third straight. This time in regulation, though, rather than what we were talking about yesterday. And, it was the kind of loss that a team is going to have and a converted starter is going to have from time to time. RHP Seth Johnson is in the process of converting to a relief role because he hasn’t been able to develop a third effective pitch to go with his fastball and slider. Last night he wasn’t able to use the slider as an effective pitch, and he got hit. Hard. These days will happen, and that is part of the process of relief work is to make sure when you come in that everything is working and that you have a feel for your pitches right away. You have less time to get ready. This is why the “just throw them in the bullpen” sentiment with regard to the young starters (Painter, Abel) just isn’t a good idea. It was an unfortunate 6-4 loss. Mercado had two hits. There was some sloppy play in the field. “Part, Part” – It’s all part of it.
On to Painter.
And the rain.
Standings
Durham lost last night as well–as did Jacksonville, Memphis and Nashville–so the standings remain the same. Tied atop the International League overall standings at 23-12. Jacksonville 1.0 game back of IronPIgs and Durham. Memphis and Nashville 3.0 games back.
June 22 is the end of the first half.
Roster Update
No additional roster moves were made since Tuesday.
Printable Roster: 050625 LHV Roster
Other Resources
Series preview with information about the Woo Sox: HERE
Taking stock of the relievers, although perhaps some of the ratings need to change: HERE
Yesterday’s rant about bullpen usage and losing extra-inning games: HERE
Game Day!
6:45PM First Pitch
5:00PM* All Gates
Promotions:
- Twisted Happy Hour* – select drafts and drink specials 5PM to 7PM
- Scrub Jersey Giveaway (Adults)
- Healthcare Education Night – St Luke’s
- Jewish Heritage Night – Special food offerings in the plaza
- Dance Night – Pre-game performance
Weather: 36% to 41% chance of rain at game time. Mid-60s with a light breeze.
Pitching:
Lehigh Valley: RHP Andrew Painter (debut)
Worcester: RHP Cooper Criswell (2-0, 1.06)
Originally drafted by the Angels, saw some time with Tampa and made 18 starts for Boston last season. Sinking fastball: 87-89, Cutter 85-87, Change: 82-84 (40% usage), Slider: 76 sweeper. He’s getting stretched out, went 5.0 and 6.0 innings his last two outings.
See you at the park,
@Kram207
Featured Image by Cheryl Pursell. It has been cropped to fit the space.