Tuesday, July 17, 2012

AXELROD ON TARGET AGAINST BOSOX AND A FEW OTHER INDY TIDBITS

Dylan Axelrod should have solidified his standing with the Chicago White Sox Monday even though Robin Ventura's crew walked out of Fenway Park on the short end of a 5-1 score.

The onetime Frontier League hurler (Windy City, Crestwood, IL)gave up only one run in 6.2 innings while matching his (brief) career high with eight strikeouts, including Boston's Cody Ross, Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Will Middlebrooks twice apiece. Had it not been for a 33-pitch first inning in which the Red Sox tied the game at 1-1, it would have been considered a sensational outing.

"I just go into the game almost trying too hard," he told MLB.com. "I just tell myself that I need to relax and let it flow."

ROBERTSON STRUGGLES

The other hurler we showcased in this space Monday, recent Wichita (American Association) lefty Nate Robertson, struggled in his debut in the Toronto farm system. The Wingnuts investor and former major leaguer allowed four runs (three earned) and six hits in two innings for Triple-A Las Vegas.

SIOUX FALLS PACKS THEM IN

Kudos to Sioux Falls, SD where the Pheasants sold out for the first time in nearly four years (August 23, 2008) Monday, even though the 4,862 fans watched Fargo, ND claim its 13th consecutive American Association victory, 3-1.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION UMP WAS IN FUTURES GAME

We almost missed the fact onetime American Association umpire Nick Bailey got to work the Futures game during All-Star festivities in Kansas City last week. Independent umpiring graduates are getting more plum opportunities, just like the players.

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