Jack Etkin has his first farm report today and it focuses on the differences between this year's Sky Sox roster and previous ones. He also confirms that Scott Beerer retired before the season started because didn't make the Tulsa bullpen. We also have the initial setup for all the minor league rotations.
Colorado Springs, L 5-4: It was a good night for the first three spots in the Sky Sox lineup with Sullivan, Seth Smith and Spilborghs each collecting at least two hits. Smith drove in two runs and also hit a triple. In Ian Stewart's AAA debut he collected two hits. Brian Lawrence drew the Opening Night assignment and went 6 2/3 innings. Over that span he allowed 10 hits and allowed three earned runs.
Tulsa, Postponed (Snow): Read the Tulsa World wrap-up. Also find out why the Rockies aren't ignoring the farm system.
Modesto, W 6-3: Jeff Kindel had a big High A debut as he collected three hits in four ABs, two of which went for doubles. It was the top and the bottom of the lineup that drove in the runs, however. Young (1), Fowler (2), Carte (1) and Becktel (2) all drove in runs. An even more encouraging start for Young and Fowler is that they both drew a walk. Jason Van Kooten stole two bases, Becktel one. Andrew Johnston pitched the last inning of the game, allowed two hits and struck out one.
The Mod Bee lets us know that the Nuts are serious about baseball.
Asheville, W 7-4: After some trouble with the lights last night, the Tourists had a great start to the season after Daniel Mayora scored two on a triple and Bret Berglund hit a two-run homer in the 7th inning. The team stole five bases, two by Anthony Jackson. It was also a good night to take a walk as Victor Ferrante had three and Berglund and Michael McKenry had two each. Hector Gomez struck out three times. Josh Sullivan went 3 2/3 innings, allowed three hits and three runs (one earned), walked four and struck out five. Craig Baker recorded the final two outs of the inning and and struck out two for his first professional save.
Check out this Asheville Tourists blog.