Michael Wacha last pitched on July 24th, the day before Tyler Lyons twirled his latest Memphis gem. Could both be part of the all-important Pittsburgh series as St. Louis looks for a spark? Lyons is already with the Cardinals in advance of his now late start today, but another move is seemingly needed after Fernando Salas threw 35 pitches in his uninspiring relief appearance.
Wacha is no stranger to providing a lift out of the bullpen, something he did last summer on the way to Springfield’s Texas League title. The stakes are much higher for the rookie now, but the Pirates need an introduction to the next future ace as early as possible. To drive the point home, there is no starter listed for the Redbirds today, something not lost on the Preacher.
Sunday, July 28th
White smoke — Johnson City staff, 12 IP, 8 H, R, 2 BB, 17 SO
Gray smoke — Alex Mejia, Palm Beach, 0-4, 3 SO, 7th Error
Black smoke — Victor Marte, Memphis, 1.1 IP, 4 H, R, 3 BB, L
Monday, July 29th
White smoke — Peoria offense, 14 R, 17 H, 9-17 RISP (7 different Chiefs drove in runs)
Gray smoke — Eric Fornataro, Memphis, 1.0 IP, 3 H, R, 2 K (Forgotten man on 40-man)
Black smoke — Dean Kiekhefer, Palm Beach, 0.2 IP, 4 H, 5 R, HBP, L (All in 9th inning)
Marco smoke — Marco Gonzales, GCL Cards, 1.2 IP, H, 2 BB, 5 SO
Good to see Gonzales show put-away stuff and hoping he gets bumped up as rosters shake up this week. Marte should be looking for work by this time next week, and a couple of Springfield relievers may be filling spots in Memphis.
