The first of the “Around the System” reports for the 2012 season.  I am looking to make this a regular feature once again but it may be a bit slower than in years past because of time constraints.  Look for a report on Middle Infielders sometime next weekend, if not earlier.

Lehigh Valley

Cody Overbeck, 25, 9th round pick in 2008, .282/.324/.408 in 103 AB’s; 2HR 15 RBI; 6%bb/16%K rate; .355 vs. LH, .250 vs. RH, .292 with RISP. 28 games at 1B without an  error. Overbeck  has deservedly started receiving some attention as the most consistent hitter in the Lehigh Valley lineup and a guy that has been a regular run producer throughout his minor league career. Another month or two of this type of production should lead to promotion to Philly talk. Continue reading Around the System–Corner Infielders →

A few observations: Sources say that hitters havent seen much of Trevor May’s curveball this year (which is a plus pitch), because the Phillies brass want him to focus on developing his slider.  Whatever he has been throwing, it has been with success as he had 5 wins in April.

—Cody Asche, the Clearwater 3B is a guy worth keeping an eye on.  A 4th round pick out of University of Nebraska, Asche struggled in WIlliampsort last year, but is putting it together in the early going for the Threshers.

–With promotions to Philadelphia and recent struggles in the Lehigh Valley rotation, the time is right to consider the promotion of Tyler CLoyd into the Lehigh Valley rotation.  Since mid season last year, he has been extremely consistent in AA and is a regular on our “Hot” list.

–Jesse Biddle makes the “hot” list but that was based on his effort late last week.  Most notable is the fact that he lasted just 0.1 of an inning last evening, leading to speculation of an injury. Continue reading Hot or Not →

Another rough week for the ‘Pigs who started a huge home stand last Monday at Coca Cola Park, and are 2-4 since the last update, including three consecutive losses to Scranton.  The home stand continues this evening with Charlotte (White Sox affiliate) coming into Allentown for a three game series. Lehigh Valley now stands at 13-11 and are tied for third in the Northern Division, 2.5 games behind division leading Pawtucket. Continue reading Lehigh Valley Weekly Report →