Sam Roberts transitions towards the mound

Recently announced; Beloit middle infielder, Sam Roberts, has officially converted from his engrained middle infield post for the Snappers to the bullpen after a whopping five appearances out of the Turtles bullpen in emergency situations after being bestowed with positional pitching duties prior to the 2014 campaign. Roberts compliments former positional transitions such as Sean Doolittle, Jeremy Barfield, the recently released Jensi Peralta and Jesus Rivas that establishes Oakland as a prominent experimental organization that will now attempt to wring any remaining potential from the 25 year old Virginian in hopes of another success story and furthermore definitively hammer down the A's "Cinderella" narrative. Unlike Doolittle however, the previous four of Barfield, Roberts, Peralta and Rivas switched due to offensive struggles and plus potential with arm strength rather than the wrist issue that significantly hampered Doolittle's swing mechanics and incited a shift to the hill where Doolittle dominated as a two way prospect at the University of Virginia en route to Brooks Wallace award nominations. Roberts, like Doolittle, pitched significantly at a Virginian institution as the VMI alumni vacillated between closing roles to Friday night rotation duties all while featuring as the Keydet's offensive juggernaut. This differentiates Roberts from Jeremy Barfield, who had absolutely zero pitching experience outside of his little league pursuits and required a thorough AZL and instructional gauntlet for Barfield to prepare for the California League. Thus far for the hulking righty former corner outfielder, predictably he has wound up struggling at times and his production has fluctuated for the Ports through his 31 2/3 IP, with a 37:27 K/BB and a cringe worthy 6.01 FIP. Wielding a promising 24.5% K% however, Barfield could very well reconcile with the organization and re-sign for another attempt in 2015 after his contract expires this offseason. Jensi Peralta, formally a middle infielder, demonstated similar qualities to Barfield within the AZL featuring bunches of strikeouts and walks, but evidently wasn't enough to convince the A's to retain him. Jesus Rivas, a DSL outfielder prior to his shift, shined as the Dominican closer during his initial campaign through 2013 and rightfully acquired an immediate American promotion and mildly shocking Vermont assignment to bypass the AZL entirely, as the Caribbean righty competes for a Midwest League post come 2015. 

Sam Roberts, unlike any of these previous examples, was the only one to have pitched within a contest as a positional player and the lone individual to have convinced the Athletics to shift him due to his output upon the mound in extra inning bouts and disparaging blowout defeats, as the versatile righty was unlikely to have ever ascended to Stockton via his offensive potential. Roberts was teetering upon the edge of release following his anemic production within the field after accumulating a .244/.307/.307 slash through 143 PAs with 6 XBHs and a 10:37 BB/K to contribute to an even more abysmal .222/.329/.302 result through a career 592 PAs between Vermont, Burlington and Beloit following his induction into the organization after inking as a 26th round 2011 draftee. Partaking in his pitching debut with Vermont, surrendering a walkoff HR, Roberts then appeared through two contests with the Snappers during the previous campaign in 2013 to amass a 2 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 1 BB, 1 K with his lone punchout being of the unanimous #1 overall prospect in baseball, Byron Buxton. For this campaign however, Roberts was bestowed with a dual role prior to April with Ryan Mathews coupling as another cataclysmic 15th inning replacement to don the mound and amassed a 7 1/3 IP, 6 H, 3 R, 4 BB, 4 K line through five appearances that culminated in a 3 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 BB, 2 K appearance within a 17th inning Beloit victory in which Ryan Mathews also hurled a pair of innings to earn the victory. His final offensive appearance occurring on June 9th and his three inning effort transpiring on June 10th, Roberts has spent the previous 10 days preparing without any AZL seasoning to shift and appeared in his first outing as an exclusive pitcher on June 21st, going 2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K in his most exquisite appearance as a professional while punching out Austin Wilson to conclude his outing.     

"They decided he was going to do both a while ago, probably after the second time he pitched. But it was more recently they made him just a pitcher" Said Ryan Mathews, Roberts' teammate in Beloit. "[Sam Roberts] looks really good off the mound and throws a 88-90 MPH fastball with some good movement and a good slider.... He originally through he'd be drafted as a pitcher" 

With no remaining hope for Roberts to assimilate as a positional farmhand, the 25 year old now has adopted renewed optimism upon the mound and now complements Trevor Bayless as the Snappers' newest bullpen additions following Blake McMullen and Tyler Hollstegge's transitions toward Vermont from Wisconsin. With Roberts' contract having yet to expire until the conclusion of the 2017 campaign, performances such as his previous effort may very well salvage his prospects of aspiring to a major league career, or at the very least a long awaited Stockton promotion.  

Oakland A's Dominican Summer League Preview

With the acquisition of several teenaged farmhands hailing from Venezuela, Columbia and Panama, the Athletics have once more bolstered their ranks at the Santo Domingo academy with inking of Santiago Rodriguez (RHP), Gerardo Vilchez (RHP), Jorge Martinez (6'0", 160 pounds, LHP/1B) and Jean Carlos Ruiz Torres (6'2", 170 pounds, RHP) as additional assets accompanying Ruber Aquino, Enmanuel Sullivan, Jesus Monserratt and Gean Rigby as organizational rookies set to debut after Miggy Mercedes, JC Rodriguez, Jhonny Rodriguez and Robert Mullen were welcomed just prior to the 2013 campaign. The additions usurp the absences of Jesus Zambrano and Victor Veliz, who have since ascended forth towards the AZL Papago facility following outstanding efforts previously while playing under the Caribbean affiliate, with Zambrano amassing a 3.16 FIP between his 14 outings (61 1/3 IP) as the youngest player in the organization by 51 weeks (Born 8/23/1996, Iolana Akau 8/31/1995). Zambrano equally produced a 48:12 K/BB as a 16 year old (18.8% K%/4.7% BB%) while permitting a mere 4 HRs (0.59 HR/9) to entrench himself within the 2014 AZL rotation. Joining shall be Victor Veliz after a sensational third campaign while participating amongst fellow Caribbean Oakland prospects, bursting through with a 2.91 FIP through his 71 frames with a 46:18 K/BB and a lone dinger allowed for the now 20 year old southpaw. Jesus Lopez, Oakland's $950,000 switch hitting second base acquisition hailing from Nicaraugua, shall debut domestically within Arizona as well, diminishing the buzz surrounding the DSL crop for the impending season. However, the ballclub still wields Carlos Hiciano, Juan Mendoza, Ivan Andueza, Robert Mullen, Eric Mariñez, and Luis Barrera as premier international farmhands represented in the Dominican this June. While not honed in upon by traditional MiLB outlets, the DSL is still a prominent league where numerous potential for the A's shall be housed through their summer crusade upon the island with recent successes such as Yairo Muñoz and Santiago Chavez and boasts a significant bounty of prospects Oakland fans ought to acquaint themselves with for upcoming years. 

Headlining the attendees, Carlos Hiciano arrives as another July 2nd asset snatched by the Athletics to complement Jesus Lopez as the center field and shortstop prospect inked for $750,000 and revered for his sensational athleticism, garnering 70 grades for his speed while possessing a tremendous amount of arm strength, plus bat speed, and line drive tendencies that are projected to develop gradually into dingers as the 6'2", 175 pound 17 year old Dominican physically matures. Easily the most anticipated prospect for the A's present within the academy, Hiciano ought to star for the DSL bunch while grappling with the adversity that will accompany his initial foray into the professional ranks. Amongst this cast of DSLers however, Hiciano is undoubtedly the centerpiece for the Athletics, with the potentiality to emerge as a top 20 organizational prospect for the green and gold. 

Despite the absences of Jean Carlo Rodriguez and Miggy Mercedes with their departures to Arizona to compete within the AZL circuit, the teenage contingent still is heavily represented positionally between the thunderous might of Luis Barrera and the blooming potential of Jhonny Rodriguez who each rightfully demonstrated their raw capabilities throughout to Dominican schedule during the 2013 campaign. Luis Barrera, the hefty 6'1", 195 pound 18 year old surged forth to lead the ballclub in HRs (4) while finishing forth to Eric Mariñez and the afforementioned duo of Jean Carlo and Jhonny Rodriguez with a cumulative XBH (13) within a truncated professional debut for Barrera, who was absent for the entirety of August with a hand fracture. Still, within his 149 plate appearance sample size, the then 17 year old firmly established himself as one of the premier short season power oriented farmhands for Oakland, amassing a .198 ISO in the often oppressive DSL confines as the righty corner outfield and potential first base prospect strung together a .190/.302/.389 slash line with a 12.1% BB% (18:22 BB/K) and an additional 107 wRC+. The lackluster average was attributable to a sour .196 BABIP that wasn't the slightest bit indicative of Barrera's potentiality as the highest grossing amateur signee of the 2012 period ($450,000) and DPL alumni promises to establish himself as an offensive juggernaut and assured AZL participant for the 2015 campaign once completed with this upcoming assigmment. 

While significantly less developed than Barrera, Jhonny Rodriguez additionally inked for a six figure sum ($300,000) out of the Dominican Republic and was bestowed with the honors as the youngest positional individual within the organization (Born 7/20/1196) and proceeded to partake with his initial DSL campaign as a 16 year old, primarily manning all outfield posts while acquiring a lone and perculiar outing at second base. While severely inept for durations throughout the season, Rodriguez still was able to compile admirable stretches to offset his predictable struggles, hitting .313/.329/.450 during his final month through August (82 PAs) to boost his cumulative statistical marks to a 92 wRC+, .247/.283/.363 slash, .116 ISO and .301 BABIP despite only walking in a mere 11 instances through his 267 PA organizational opening debut. Regardless, Rodriguez still demonstrated his offensive worth despite the subpar discipline with a squad best 15 doubles and short season leading seven triples that reinforces his potential approaching his sophomore stint all prior to his 18th birthday. 

Complementing the positional headliners upon the ballclub are returning assets that drove the Caribbean bunch through their most recent attempt, including the rather stunning retainment of Rodolfo Penalo after a phenomenal breakthrough crusade during his fourth try within the island academy, producing a .311/.422/.404 slash, .415 wOBA, 151 wRC+, and 13.6% BB% (25:21 BB/K) and an organizational leading 29 stolen bases (39 attempts) despite only playing in 51 contests for the DSL Athletics. The 5'7", 130 switch hitting 2B/CF leadoff specialist is one of the most unique individuals under contract for Oakland, and seemingly established himself as an AZL applicant for the 2014 campaign. However, possibly due to injury, Penalo shall not debut instantly with Phoenix for the time being, although could ascend towards Papago at some instance during this calendar year. Joining Rodolfo, another intriguing prospect that has been restricted to the Dominican has been Sandber Pimentel, the consistent corner outfield asset that slotted second behind Penalo upon the DSL wRC+ leaderboard (129) while accumulating a .255/.353/.422 slash line, .377 wOBA and .167 ISO for the stout 6'3", 220 pound 18 year old after showcasing an outstanding amount of improvement comparatively to his initial attempt in regards to his power rate, smacking 10 XBH (2 HR) within his 119 PAs with a respectable 12.6% BB% (15:22 BB/K) that was actually worse than his 18.5% BB% rate during his 2012 go-around. Still, despite maintaining his discipline while bolstering that with a revitalized approach and definitive physical maturation at the plate, 19th round draftee from the 2012 Draft, Robert Martinez, had graduated towards Arizona in favor of Pimentel, who seemingly shall have to grapple once more with competition he is blatantly superior to. With another stellar trot through the DSL, Oakland will be unable to deny the sibling of the former Texas farmhand, Guillermo Pimentel, entry to the stateside rookie league facility. 

Rounding out the offensive contingent, Robert Mullen, Barry Hernandez, Andys Silva, Eric Mariñez, and Raymond Rivas shall undoubtedly be stalwart contributors for the bunch through the 2014 campaign, with none above the age of 20. Mitchell Martes, Javier Godard and Miguel Guzman additionally reacclimate to the competition as now practical veterans to the facility, with each unfortunately struggling through their previous attempts. For Robert Mullen however, the 6'0" Panaminian backstop who shall usurp starting duties following the triumphant departure of Santiago Chavez, the soon-to-be 18 year old's sophomore campaign could very well propel him to the forefront of international prospects within the Athletics organization, after his sterling defensive exploits coupled with plus contributions at the plate for a newly acquainted teenager find him in a similar position to the now notable Santiago Chavez, who has graduated the DSL academy and found himself assigned directly to Midland to momentarily serve as a cog for the ailing Ryan Lipkin after sustaining a knee injury and has since been rewarded for his brilliant performance with a permanent post within Wisconsin. Mullen, the Panaminian brotherin of Jean Carlo Rodriguez, shined with his .267/.340/.367 slash and 115 wRC+ while bursting through August with a feverish 13-39 stretch with 5 XBH to close his campaign after finally settling into a groove. Now on the verge of a breakthrough, Mullen is assuredly a pivotal asset to the ballclub now having been bestowed with catching duties the the entirety of 2014 while occasionally divvying opportunities with Miguel Guzman, Barry Hernandez, and newly inked Jesus Monserratt. Eric Yoel Mariñez, the switch hitting DPL bred middle infield plug lassoed in for $95,000 by Oakland, additionally flashed promising performances for the Dominican cast to finish with a .246/.293/.351 mark (12:53 BB/K) while bashing 12 doubles and three triples to make him one of the more prominent offensive threats throughout the academy. While originally being pronounced as the switch hitting asset, Yoelie Mariñez floundered against lefties while batting right handed, going 3-43 with 18 strikeouts and a lone walk while batting .305/.354/.430 versus righties as a left-hander thus possibly prompting the organization to shift him should the trend be prolonged. Luis "Barry" Hernandez, nicknamed after Barry Bonds for his awe inspiring batting practice shows while participating with the Columbian national squad, and Andys Silva each impressed with their discipline capabilities through their initial stint for Oakland, with each amassing BB% rates north of 13.0% that didn't necessarily salvage their overall statistical measures thanks to BABIP percentages each below .270. Andys Silva, the Venezuelan middle infield asset, was far superior against southpaws during his debut romp last summer and features primarily as a defensive and utility specialist with line drive capabilities at the plate. Raymond Rivas, another Venezuelan infielder, possesses greater physical potential than Silva, standing 6'1", 185 pounds compared to Silva's modest 5'11", 160 pound frame and equally weilds an entirely different approach, rather opting for a swing first mentality as opposed to Andys' patience with beneficial results as Rivas amassed a .323 BABIP to rank fourth upon the entire club despite his horrendous eight cumulative walks drawn through his 194 plate appearances. Miguel Guzman and Mitchell Martes, both humongous teenage farmhands (6'2", 210 and 6'5", 215) have each struggled thus far offensively for the DSL bunch, with Martes featuring as an intriguing asset hailing from the Netherlands after inking for $50,000 from Aruba to coincide with Shawn Duinkerk as another Aruban pressence for Oakland. 

Alongside these shall be debuting rookie acquisitions such as Yhoelnys Gonzalez, Jesus Monserratt and Gean Rigby, with Rigby and Momserratt being the first individuals signed by Oakland to have been born in 1997. Yhoelnys, inked on July 25th, was the corresponding transaction following the splash of Carlos Hiciano and Jesus Lopez for a cumulative $1.7M. Yhoelnys, the 6'1", 170 pound center field prospect deviously participated in Miami showcases with his travel ballclub out of Venezuela and has recieved acclaim for his smooth swing mechanics and athleticism. Gean Rigby, another center field asset and the second Nicaraguan addition following Jesus Lopez, bolsters a potent outfield cast as a 6'1", 180 pound developing offensive weapon with current gap power for the teenager having just recently turned 17. Another 17 year old, the Venezeulan backstop of Jesus Monserratt complements a solid catching contingent and shall shadow Guzman, Hernandez and Mullen behind the plate as he gradually garners professional experience within the academy. 

Upon the mound, losses of the remarkable sensation of Jesus Zambrano and outstandingly consistent southpaw, Victor Veliz, still don't squander the potential upon the ballclub with sophomores Ivan Andueza and Juan Mendoza figuring to anchor the rotation after once more following admirable initial stints within the starting bunch for the Venezuelan lefty in Andueza and the Dominican All-Star representative in Mendoza. Andueza, formally a teenage injury replacement option upon the VWL Lara squad, is hardly an imposing pressence upon the mound as he conjures comparisons to another diminutive Venezuelan arm in Ronnie Herrera; despite Andueza actually being older than the Snappers rotation staple (2/7/1995). Andueza, standing at 5'11", 175 pounds, neutralized opposing offenses with a 2.93 FIP amassed between his 67 IP with a 49:23 BB/K (17.2% K%/7.7% BB%) to coincide with a lone HR permitted and a 1.39 GB/FB produced thanks in part to a plus changeup. It was a stellar performance that firmly places the lefty in consideration for Arizona duties even prior to the opening of the Papago schedule for 2014 should he dominate initially, attempting to become the first mid-season promotion from the DSL academy since Gregory Paulino. Juan Mendoza surprisingly enough even exceeded the southpaw's output himself: 

"Want an international sleeper that's even more so hidden than Ronald Herrera or Jesus Zambrano? Look no further. Mendoza, also born in 1996, was 17 throughout the previous DSL campaign in what was his debut professional season as well. In the process of his debut, he received a DSL All-Star game berth alongside Jean Carlo Rodriguez and featured as one of the more reliable producers of a developing Dominican bunch. As he accumlulated his 71 2/3 IP, he would amass one of the most outstanding groundball rates of any rookie league Oakland prospect while walking 21 (7.1% BB%) and allowing a minuscule two dingers to compensate for a less than desirable 42 strikeouts (14.1% K%). The numbers translate to a 3.44 FIP, and a even more pristine 1.88 ERA for the Venezeulan. Unlike his fellow countrymen, Zambrano and Herrera, Mendoza has a greater physical potential (6'2", 175 pounds) and has optimistism revolving amongst his projection. But despite that recent success, the organization seems skewed towards retaining Mendoza in the Dominican for another campaign, with a probable AZL promotion in July/August. He'll turn 18 on April 15th"

Accompanying the rotation assets are intriguing potential riddlied pieces such as Jesus Rivas, a recently converted arm from his previous outfield post in an attempt to reciprocate Jensi Peralta's conversion success after the righty went 13 2/3 IP, 11 H, 6 ER, 1 BB, 7 K as the squad's closer through 2013. Anderson Mata, inked alongside Jose Torres as another Venezuelan lefty, shall attempt to finally congeal and ascend to Arizona while the former Miami farmhand Kevin Ferrera (27 2/3 IP, 12 H, 3 ER, 12 BB, 36 K) attempts to duplicate his previous dominance. Yonalis Delgadillo and Elihoref Suniaga return following absences while Wilfredo Magallanes, Jose Trejo, and Argenis Blanco, and the Puerto Rican Philip Ortiz return after debut campaigns during 2013. Yordy Alejo, Angel Duno and Reynaldo Hoyos reacclimate as DSL juniors present at the facility while Emerson Nelo and Jhenderson Hurtado attempt to debut alongside Ruber Aquino, Enmanuel Sullivan, Jorge Martinez, Santiago Rodriguez, Gerardo Vilchez and Jean Carlo Ruiz Torres despite being present but unable to contend through the 2013 calendar year. 

Oakland A's Extended Spring Training Update

With the opening of campaigns throughout the country between Beloit, Midland, Sacramento and Stockton, most have forgotten that the remaining outcasts yet to be assigned towards any full season affiliate have been participating within a regimen amongst their fellow Papago counterparts versus opposing organizations down in Arizona, having yet to see their March schedule shift until the Vermont and AZL campaigns get underway in June. Still tethered to Phoenix are such notable farmhands as Jesus Zambrano, Justin Higley, Chris Kohler, Dustin Driver, Yario Muñoz, Jesus Lopez, and Jose Torres who were retained due to inexperience, youth, inconsistency or just sheer inability to cram them onto an available roster as this bunch of misfits contends for injury replacement duties prior to Lake Monster roster configurations in the approaching month. Joining me to update on this seldom addressed sector of the farm system is 26th round acquisition from the 2013 Draft, Kyle Wheeler, the catcher hailing from Mississippi and a previous interviewee for this very blog who provided some intriguing insight on the Arizona proceedings thus far: 

CK: Hey there Kyle. As a catcher, how have the guys upon the mound looked thus far? Anybody in particular that's stood out through the first month? 

KW: I've been beyond impressed with Jesus Zambrano. The kid is 17 years old and can dominate players at this level already. The stuff he has is quite impressive. Next I would have to say Blake McMullen, he has came in and shown up to play every outing. Great command of all three pitches and the movement he has developed on his two seam and change up makes him even more special!... Blake's last two outings consisted of 8 IP has only allowed one hit while only walking one batter in 14 innings. He's an old country boy from the south, similarly to [Drew] Granier, and he's got that attitude that he will beat you even if you beat him nine out of ten times... He's gonna be damn sure he gets you that last time that counts. 

AJ Burke and Jon Massad equally have came in doing great jobs as well! Both guys have come in and dominated the bottom of the strike zone. And of course Dustin Driver... What a difference from the AZL to this Spring! He commands his fastball from 93-96.... Key word he is *commanding*. He has gained a lot of confidence in all his pitches and looks like a completely different pitcher. 

Chris Kohler has been on the DL with a sore shoulder. Shockingly Cody Kurz has been better and better every outing, but not sold on the control he's having yet. Kurz and I have developed a good catcher-pitcher relationship and every time I've caught him he's done well, just hoping he can adjust to other catchers. Jose Torres has been ok, spotty at times with command but when he has it he's lethal. And Jensi Peralta is the same as Torres. More trouble with command than Torres though. But a big improvement from last season in the AZL. 

CK: What about on the offensive side? Again, anybody in particular that has been noticeable? 

KW: Man, there's no individual that is out hitting one another... We have all swung the bats well! If I had to separate two people it would be Dayton Alexander and Brett Vertigan. Those guys have a chip on their shoulder and have shown it. Vertigan with easily five or six triples and two HRs in extended. And clutch with runners in scoring position. And Dayton just competes... Hard day in and day out like it's his last game to play. Most impressive offensively since spring started though would be Seongmin Kim. He has gone with a new approach and crushes balls now. 

CK: A couple guys in particular that interest me are AJ Kubala and Justin Higley. Kubala came in as a high schooler and struck out in over half of his plate appearances through his AZL debut in 2013 and Justin Higley was pretty well deserving of Beloit this season. What have been your impressions on them thus far? 

KW: AJ [Kubala] is a hard nosed worker who puts in more work than anyone in their free time. He's made several adjustments and is a lot shorter to the ball which will eliminate the strikeouts. I expect a big season from him wherever it is that he will be playing. He's young with a lot of upside in him, it's just putting it all together consistently that will make him the true player that he is capable of being... Higley has had a good spring. I hate he didn't break camp because he's a great player, but Boogie [Powell] and [Bijon] Boyd both were in front of him. 

CK: What about the man in question... Yourself. How has the spring been treating you out in Arizona? 

KW: [Laughs] I've improved tremendously since camp has started! Went from throwing 2.1's to 1.8's [Home to second] and Gabriel Ortiz has helped me a lot. It's definitely starting to show! I came in a little slow on the hitting side, late on a lot of fastballs, but have worked with our hitting coaches and more on time and ready to hit now. To me, it's all about being patient and buying into what your trying to learn from your coaches and it has benefited me a tremendous amount.

CK: How has the facial hair situation been too? I hope you keep growing it to Derek Norris lengths like we promised...

KW: [Laughs] Oh man, Dusty Brown gives me crap about it everyday but still growing it out! Got another five months before I even think about cutting it. 

CK: Dusty Brown is just a crotchety old man

KW: That is the truest statement about Dusty!

CK: Hope everything else goes well out in Papago, Wheelie. And get out to Stockton ASAP

KW: Hope to get there sooner than later!

Noted, Blake McMullen is a 6'1", 205 righty hailing from the NAIA institution of the University of Sciences and Arts of Oklahoma who accumulated 24 2/3 frames within the AZL during his 2013 campaign following his 29th round acquisition and amassed a 20:14 K/BB while permitting a lone dinger. Seemingly demonstrating his offseason improvement through this spring stretch, McMullen additionally flashed reasons for optimism during his initial professional stint with a 1.29 GB/FB ratio. While not spoken of as highly, Jensi Peralta enters as an intriguing farmhand following the 22 year old Venezuelan's conversion towards the mound following a lackluster offensive stretch for Oakland between the Dominican academy and the AZL, now entering his third campaign since his shift after a mere frame pitched during 2012 and 18 IP accumulated through 2013 with an erratic 19:13 K/BB with no HRs and a 1.33 GB/FB. The sample size is misiscule for Peralta, but his probable Vermont assignment makes him an interesting and underrated relieving prospect to monitor. AJ Burke and Jon Massad each participated in AZL exclusive attempts as well, with Burke having his campaign abruptly hindered by an injury as the 31st (Burke) and 25th (Massad) round pickups each completed successful debuts with Massad amassing a 24:5 K/BB within his 30 IP (3 HR/2.19 GB:FB) and AJ Burke went 29 H, 18 ER (1 HR), 6 BB, 18 K in his 20 2/3 IP. Cody Kurz, the 8th round asset plucked from Oxnard College in the 7th round during 2012, featured as a hulking former linebacker recruit that was essentially selected as a potential exclusive option, struggling nightly to command while partaking against collegiate competion. That inconsistency transitioned forth into the professional ranks after walking 29 in his 21 2/3 IP while punching out a mere nine before succumbing to an injury that squandered the entirety of his 2013, thus entering this campaign as a perculiar and fascinating bullpen option to watch. Positionally, Seongmin Kim arrives as one of Oakland's most high profile Pacific Rim assets as the most hefty international acquisition between the 2011 and 2012 signing periods after inking for $510,000 before the Korean backstop partook in a debut campaign within the Australian academy before being flown domestically to the southwest. Kim has been stunted however attributable to physical roadbumps, only amassing 55 plate appearances thus far within the AZL. Eligible for Vermont, the 21 year old receives unanimous acclaim for his offensive capabilities and reportedly has improved vastly defensively with his reactions behind the plate, establishing this 2014 as a potential breakthrough campaign for Seongmin. 

Raul Alcantara done for 2014

Announced this evening, Oakland's #1 overall pitching farmhand in Raul Alcantara shall undergo Tommy John surgery after receiving a MRI in Arizona following a DL assignment for the ever ominous "elbow soreness". For Alcantara, the 21 year old Dominican Andrew Bailey trade acquisition, it signifies a devastating blow to the organization after his offseason 40 man amnesty to avoid Rule 5 suitors from nabbing him and breakthrough 2013 campaign between Stockton and Beloit in which Alcantara amassed a 2.91 FIP within Wisconsin (77 1/3 IP) and a 4.21 marker with the Ports (79 IP) after an abysmal 2012 attempt with Burlington as a 19 year old. Hailed as possessing the best developing changeup in the organization, while bolstering that with a plus fastball, the 6'3" righty dispatched any opposing competition consistently through 2013 while walking a mere 24 batters amongst 649 faced (3.7% BB%) to earn honors as the most precision precise pitcher within the Oakland organization. And aside from a 3 HR contest versus Rancho Cucamonga, Raul was exquisite with limiting hard hit and home run contact, accumulating a 1.72 GB/FB ratio between the two affiliates. 

Having sufficiently convinced the organization of his standing, Alcantara was bestowed with a Midland assignment five months past his 21st birthday following his first initial MLB spring camp and would impress with an eight inning effort (8 IP, 6 H, 1 R, 1 BB, 1 K) en route to a victory. In his second outing, the strikeout percentages rebounded for the 180 pounder, going 6 2/3 IP, 5 H, 1 R, 1 BB, 7 K to secure the Texas League pitcher of the week honor prior his most recent performance. Unfortunately, Alcantara would encounter his first roadbump of his Rockhound tenure as the youngster went 5 IP, 6 H, 3 R, 3 BB, 2 K against San Antonio and threw only 49 of his 84 pitches for strikes. It was the first contest since June 23rd, Alcantara's California League debut, in which he walked more than he struck out and his first 3+ BB effort after only walking three or more twice throughout 2013. It would be revealed that Alcantara was suffering from discomfort though, contributing to his struggles, and was promptly placed upon the disabled list and shipped to Arizona where it has been discovered that he shall have to take part in reconstructive UCL surgery should he ever wish the pitch again. Raul ought to be eligible by May 2015 at the earliest, but could be absent for all of the 2015 season as well depending upon his recuperation. He'll likely be assigned to Midland once more when prepared. 

For Oakland, already witnessing the other top pitching prospects in Michael Ynoa and Bobby Wahl land upon the DL a month into the season, it serves as a brutal loss to an organization already ailing 

Oakland rounds up a gaggle of international prospects

With Oakland having previously acquired Jesus Lopez ($950,000), Carlos Hiciano ($750,000), Ruber Aquino, Enmanuel Sullivan and Yhoelnys Gonzalez, the Athletics continue their international spree with the acquisitions of Gean Rigby, Jesus Monserratt and Alexander Calderon on five figure contracts to bolster the respective 2014 DSL roster for Oakland. Gean Ribgy (Alternative spelling of "Rygby"), the second Nicaraguan after Jesus Lopez plucked by the Athletics, features as a 6'0", 180 pound center fielder who now currently is the youngest player in the organization after being born on Jaunary 7th, 1997. While information upon Rigby is minimal, there are multiple videos regarding the youngster: 

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=FqpvrYU7_K8

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Hl2NC1rX0zI

Jesus Monserratt, a 180 pound Venezuelan catcher, and Alexander Calderdon, a projectable 6'3" southpaw, additionally enter the organization with Monserratt serving as the second player born in 1997 under Oakland ownership (1/3/1997). Ruber Aquino, born 12/29/1996, is the third youngest while Jesus Zambrano, the 16 year old DSL standout the promises the feature within the AZL rotation through 2014, still pertains as the 6th youngest player in the organization despite signing in 2013. Alexander Calderon joins Kevin Ferrera, Jhenderson Hurtado, Ivan Andueza, Reynaldo Hoyos and Anderson Mata as lefties upon the DSL roster with Victor Veliz headed towards Arizona. Jesus Monserratt replaces the recently departed Santiago Chavez and shall compete with Robert Mullen (Panama), Barry Hernandez (Columbia) and Miguel Guzman (Dominican Republic) for backstop duties in the international academy this summer. 

MiLB Update: Injuries plague the A's affiliates

Following Addison Russell's devastating hamstring announcement and additional losses of Michael Ynoa (Bicep tendinitis), Bobby Wahl (Oblique), D'Arby Myers (Fractured Wrist) and Stephen Vogt (Oblique), Oakland now suffers the departure of Tanner Peters to the disabled list while Raul Alcantara skips an outing attributable to elbow soreness as Midland's rotation absorbs a massive blow while Nate Long and Andrew Werner provide temporary starting duties in their absences. Hiroyuki Nakajima was absent from Sacramento's lineup after being removed following a home plate collision and thus is shelved while Chih Fang-Pan has now sat for three consecutive bouts for Beloit following a sequence at second base in which the Taiwanese middle infielder was slammed after a baserunner attempted to thwart a double play, resulting in his removal and consequent departure from the previous couple lineups with Melvin Mercedes already upon the Snappers DL. 

Within the ailing Athletics system, there is still optimism to be acknowledged, as Jake Goebbert has launched a dinger campaign as of recently and duplicated his previously outstanding April with Midland during his organizational debut in 2013 (92 PAs, .317/.392/.512, 7 2B, 3 HR) as the former trade asset acquired for Travis Blackley has gone .365/.431/.712 with 5 doubles, two triples and a trio of HRs within his initial 58 plate appearances in his best Miles Head circa 2012 impression. Goebbert, after a sensational stint through Tacoma in a series truncated by weather (Doubleheader announced for July 26th after the delayed finale), shall undoubtedly be permanently placed within the Kitten lineup despite having to divvy opportunities between Kent Matthes, Michael Taylor and Shane Peterson. Accompanying Goebbert amongst the Kitty Cat slough of offensive excellence are Alden Carrithers (76 PAs, .377/.507/.472, 14 BB:9 K, 1 HR, 2 2B), Jose Martinez (78 PAs, .263/.436/.333, 15 BB:9 K, 1 HR, 1 2B), and Tyler Ladendorf (59 PAs, .362/.492/.468, 12 BB:11 K, 5 2B) as Sacramento's production has run entirely through their middle infield contingent thus far. In correspondence to this, Oakland has snatched Andy Parrino once more off waivers from Texas and have sent the former Kitten and Tyson Ross trade chip to California as Jake Elmore, the piece who effectively replaced Parrino, nears a supposed rehabilitation assignment. These moves signify that Tyler Ladendorf likely shall unjustly be disposed of following a PCL breakthrough for the defensive specialist in his final season under Oakland ownership while Hiroyuki Nakajima may equally be under scrutiny after an abysmal opening to his campaign and an extraordinarily disappointing debut through 2013. Joining Nakajima, Nate Freiman has flailed versus primarily right handers (As predicted), going 8-41 with a 1:10 BB/K when pitted against RHP compared to a 7-28 marker with a 5:10 BB/K versus southpaws as the fearsome platoon bat has struggled upon acquired consistent plate appearances. Michael Taylor has also found it difficult to acclimate following a remarkable preseason and startling waiver maneuvering that saw him once more take refuge in California, hitting 9-44 with a still respectable BB/K (10:10) as the issue thus far has been BABIP for the hulking outfielder and Stanford alumni, only having recorded one single with eight XBHs (6 2B/2 HR) thus far. 

Shane Peterson leads the organization with doubles (Seven) and the Rivercats with three stolen bases while amassing a .306/.309/.486 slash with a completing 9:21 BB/K in an organizational leading 84 PAs while Ryan Ortiz has been another surprising plus contributor in relief of the since departed Stepjen Vogt, going 9-29 with 4 2Bs and a 9:11 BB/K for the Oregon State journeyman that has seemingly entrenched himself in Sacramento for the remainder of his career. Upon the mound, Sean Murphy had an outstanding effort in an otherwise difficult campaign thus far within his AAA debut, going 7 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 4 K in a technical seven inning complete game that went into extras in an unfortunate Sacramento 1-0 defeat (9 innings) to open the Tacoma set following an initial postponement. Marcus Walden, upon making his Rivercat debut, went 3 IP, 6 H, 3 R (1 HR), 2 BB, 1 K that was luckily salvaged by a tremendous offensive performance by Sacramento to seize a split prior to the eventual finale for Zach Neal, as the right hander donned the mound during a soggy Tacoma evening looking to prolong his stretch of dominance through his first three outings of 2014. Unfortunately, Neal wound up being shellacked with four dingers permitted in five frames in an uncharacteristic performance from the reliable former Rockhound as the deficit proved to be insurmountable and Sacramento settled for a 1-2 Tacoma trip following a dominant 7-1 homestand, resting at 11-8 before El Paso with Josh Lindblom back at Raley Field. 

Stockton began their Inland Empire trek with consecutive defeats, failing to capitalize upon Seth Streich admirable opening performance as he went 6 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 9 K to amass the most cumulative strikeouts in a single outing for any Oakland farmhand through the campaign up until that point, as Tim Atherton would wind up surpassing him with 10 punchouts to conclude that very series. Atherton, who had a lone double digit strikeout outing with Cedar Rapids the season prior against the Oakland affiliated Beloit Snappers, dismantled Inland Empire through his six frames, gradually constructing a 6 IP, 5 H, 1 R, 1 BB, 10 K statistical résumé for one of his most superb starts of his professional career. Atherton, the Australian native and Rule 5 acquisition from Minnesota converted from outfielder to pitcher and has been released twice through his tumultuous tenure under professional ownership, now having amassed a 21 IP, 22 H, 9 ER (3 HR), 8 BB, 20 K mark throughout his initial four California League attempts after a mediocre first handful of outings as the Aussie still seeks to anchor Stockton's rotation for the aging 24 year old. Seth Streich, who then most recently contrasted his previous performance with a 5 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 4 BB, 3 K, 8 GB/0 FB Banner Island skirmish versus Lake Elsinore, has easily developed into a breakthrough candidate with a cumulative 21 IP, 13 H, 4 R (0 HR), 6 BB, 24 K debut within Stockton en route to nearly an assured POTM accolade following the conclusion of April barring a disastrous finale upon April 26th against High Desert. Manny Correa has continued his struggles from his tenure with the Caribes De Antoázegui as the slender 6'3" righty and MiLB free agent acquisition has permitted six dingers through 23 IP upon making his initial stint within the Oakland organization, yet has upheld his reliable precision with a 16:5 K/BB thus far. Josh Bowman's Wednesday evening performance (5 IP, 5 H, 4 R [1 HR], 2 BB, 7 K) was his most sensational upon the campaign while Shawn Haviland's departure to Midland signifies Hunter Adkins usurping his rotation berth. Within the bullpen, Jeremy Barfield (11 IP, 4 H, 2 R, 7 BB, 17 K), Kris Hall (12 2/3 IP, 5 H, 3 ER [1 HR], 6 BB, 13), Tucker Healy (9 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 1 BB, 13 K), and Omar Duran (5 IP, 4 H, 2 ER [1 HR], 1 BB, 9 K) have spearheaded a remarkable bullpen effort even in the absence of Ryan Doolittle; since having departed to Texas for his AA debut in his 7th season under an Athletics contract. Kris Hall, the flamethrowing Cleveland native, also had the most entertaining relief frame in the month of April for an Oakland prospect, walking three on 13 pitches in the 7th inning of Stockton's 6-5 walkoff victory, and then proceeding to strikeout three batters on nine pitches (All nine pitches were swung on and missed). Hall, throwing 95-98 velocity with a high 80's slider, is a criminally underrated bullpen farmhand for the A's

Offensively, Stockton is the only Athletics affiliate ballclub with cumulative double digit HR total, capitalizing entirely upon the offensive domain as Billy McKinney and Chad Pinder have each launched a respective 11 dingers combined thus far while Renato Nuñez and Dusty Robinson have each contributed with four as the Ports have more HRs than the rest of the three affiliates put together (28). Daniel Robertson (.325/.409/.481, 88 PAs, 9 BB:10 K), Dusty Robinson (.295/.380/.590, 71 PAs, 8 BB:16 K), and Bruce Maxwell (.344/.394/.475, 66 PAs, 5 BB:7 K) have spurred the lineup while Billy McKinney and Matt Olson have found difficulty initially with BABIP percentages and Renato Nuñez alongside Bobby Crocker have been stunted once again by their plate discipline issues. A lineup still brimming with offensive potentiality, Stockton's prospects seem extraordinarily optimistic heading onward despite their mediocre 9-11 record thus far. Similarly to the Ports, Midland's lineup has proven itself as a fearsome cast as the Rockhounds have established themselves as another Oakland hotbed led forth by Max Muncy's 84 PA .302/.452/.429 attempt with an organizational best 18:11 BB/K, slightly ahead of his Midland companion, Billy Burns (92 PAs, .254/.392/.296, 12 SB [1 CS], 16 BB:13 K). Josh Whitaker has additionally hopped aboard the BABIP train, as the Georgian has burst forth thus far for a .325/.382/.522 opening stint for Midland through his initial 65 plate appearances while amassing a .224 ISO, .426 wOBA and 173 wRC+ prior to regression, however still potentially indicating a breakthrough campaign for the Kennesaw State draftee. Other Midland standouts include Jefry Marte (.296/.339/.444, 59 PAs, 4 BB:9 K) and Dusty Coleman (.271/.350/.414, 71 PAs, 9 BB:26 K) while Conner Crumbliss, Chad Oberacker and Beau Taylor gradually are recuperating from lackluster initial stretches and Colin Walsh develops a more so potent sample size following a stellar organizational initiation. Beloit's lineup is predominantly operated through Boogie Powell, as the leadoff revelation has continuously serviced as the Snapper sparkplug, hitting .352/.432/.465 through 81 PAs with an additional 10:9 BB/K including having gone 9-15 with a HR, 2B, 2 3B and having accumulated a 4:0 BB/K throughout his previous four outings. For the southern Californian Junior Collegiate draftee, Stockton surely is beckoning should this be sustained, as Boogie has amassed a BABIP north of .335 throughout his 456 professional plate appearances. Others upon the Beloit roster worthy of recognition include Bijon Boyd (.296/.375/.451, 80 PAs, 9 BB:10 K), Jaycob Brugman (8-27, 2B, 5 BB:6 K), Ryan Mathews (14-54, 4 2B, 1 3B, 2 HR, 2 BB:11 K) and Ryan Huck (8-43, 2 2B, 10 BB:13 K) while Luis Baez, assigned in replacement of the ailing Melvin Mercedes, has gone 14-36 with six doubles despite having only drawn a lone walk thus far as he has hit 8-10 with two doubles in this most recent and ongoing Kane County series. 

Upon the mound for Midland and Beloit, with Alcantara and Petera absent, it's been Chris Jensen and Drew Granier who have frontlined the Hounddog rotation with Jensen having amassed 19 1/3 IP, 15 H, 4 ER, 8 BB, 13 K statistical results following a marvelous 7 2/3 inning performance against Corpus Christi in a victory while Drew Granier just begins to rebound from a horrendous opening outing: 16 1/3, 19 H, 9 R (1 HR), 9 BB, 11 K. Midland most outstanding assets dwell within the bullpen however, featuring such brilliant contributors as Seth Frankoff (9 2/3 IP, 4 H, 2 ER [1 HR], 2 BB, 17 K), Frank Gailey (5 2/3 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 6 K), Jeff Urlaub (11 IP, 6 H, 1 R, 3 BB, 10 K) and Jesus Castillo (8 1/3 IP, 7 H, 1 R, 3 BB, 7 K) to provide a fearsome relief cast for opposing ballclubs to grapple with. Upon Beloit's roster, Kyle Finnegan and Ronald Herrera have been the most consistent performers between the flamethrowing once through relieving prospect in Finnegan (21 1/3 IP, 21 H, 6 R [1 HR], 8 BB, 10 K) and the 18 year old mechanically consistent Venezuelan in Herrera (17 IP, 17 H, 3 R [1 HR], 2 BB, 11 K) while Sam Bragg has definitively established himself as Beloit's most reliable bullpen asset in the absence of Matt Stalcup, another DL casualty, as the underrated Georgian continues to witness his organizational stock climb (12 1/3 IP, 8 H, 3 R [1 HR], 2 BB, 12 K) 

Athletics assign a trio of extended arms

With the campaign already underway, the pitching staffs of each respective affiliate have undergone a a significant amount of alterations already with preliminary injuries ravaging rosters and forcing some to be called upon from Arizona, as some were excluded from an opening day assignment due to roster overcapacity and were made to patiently wait until disabled list stints accumulated to receive their opportunity. For Hunter Adkins, Dominique Vattuone and Junior Mendez, their seasons are now prepared to begin as the trio were each individually above the competition within Vermont as they demonstrated within the organizational debuts between the AZL and Lake Monsters the previous year, yet were snubbed from initial opportunities at a full season ballclub. Adkins effectively usurps the vacancy left by Shawn Haviland in Stockton, as the veteran righty ascends to Midland following TJS in replacement of D'Arby Myers and following Zach Neal's replacement of Joe Blanton in Sacramento, who abruptly retired and prompted this shift. Adkins additionally becomes the fifth Stockton Port with no prior Midwest League experience and bypasses Beloit entirely with Billy McKinney, Ryan Gorton, Ryon Healy and Chad Pinder each also leaping over a Snappers assignment to take refuge on the Stockton roster through 2014. The transition is logical for Adkins, a somewhat elderly senior acquisition from the 2013 Draft eligible fray despite going undrafted and having to be dependent upon the Athletics revising and inking him after the festivities has concluded in Secaucus, joining Travis Pitcher and Pi'ikea Kitamura as other NDFAs brought into the organization; despite Kitamura, a middle infielder from Hawaii, having since been released following an AZL stint. 

Not one to often opt for NDFAs, Oakland has seemingly stumbled into a bargain with Hunter Adkins though, the former 18th round acquisition from Middle Tennessee State in 2012 before opting to return to his collegiate program, as the hefty 6'4" starter wields a 88-92 MPH fastball and bolsters his primary offering with a plethora of secondary options such as a cutter, curveball and developed changeup that saw him amass a cumulative 41 2/3 IP, 37 H, 15 ER (3 HR), 12 BB, 33 K statistical résumé between Arizona and Vermont upon making his initial professional entry. With Stockton, Adkins appeared in relief of Seth Streich upon the Inland Empire roadtrip and went 1 2/3 IP, 1 H, 2 R (1 HR), 2 BB, 3 K prior to joining the Ports rotation after surrendering a dinger in his California League debut (As is often the case) and striking out the remaining two batters he faced to conclude his outing. He'll make his debut within a starting role against Lake Elsinore in this coming week, asserting himself as a potential breakthrough arm for the Athletics in 2014. 

With Bobby Wahl transported to the DL, Dominique Vattuone and Junior Mendez usurp roles upon the Snappers roster as the pair of 2013 draftees following Mendez' starting tenure and then long relief duties through Papago and Burlington, VT while Vattuone starred within a late inning bullpen facility through the short season affiliates as well. I discussed matters with the duo this December in preparation of their debuts and entry into their initial full professional seasons: 

CK: Thanks for your time, Junior. How has your offseason been?

Mendez: Hey no problems. This offseason's been great. Had some time to spend with family and friends, but now it's time to really get into baseball mode. It's been the longest I've ever been taking off of the game. Guys would tell me how long the offseason was, but until now, I had no idea. I need to start getting my golf swing down so I can pick up a new hobby [Laughs].

CK: Obviously your last collegiate season was pretty special. Second nationally in strikeouts, 97 innings, a 133:17 K/BB ratio... Those are numbers that would make Max Scherzer blush. What was the key to your success?  

Mendez: Yeah those numbers were pretty, but it wasn't until the season was over was when I really noticed how special that season was. The one thing that really kept me focused was thinking three pitches or less. Having that in mind allowed me to go deeper into games and kept me trying to do less and allow the hitters to get themselves out. It was a very simple philosophy that slowed the game down big time for me.

CK: Additionally, you struck out 15 in a no hitter that would've been a perfect game had it not been for a 7th inning error. Was it a little disappointing not picking up the PG?

Mendez: That was a funny day, not because I threw a no hitter but for the fact I had woken up with a fever and was not feeling good at all. I was praying that I could get through six innings and help my team to a win. I had no idea I even had a perfect game or no hitter going. I knew it was something when I had two strikes on the kid in the 9th and everyone was going wild. Was it disappointing? Not really because looking back at the play, it was a slow roller to third making it a tough play, and I know my third baseman did all he could to get the out and that's all that mattered. 

CK: At least it wasn't as heartwreching as Massad's near perfect game huh? 

Mendez: Massad's near perfect game was ridiculous! Because unlike mine, his error would have been the last out of the game.

CK: Were you expecting to go around the 16th round? Or was it a surprise? 

Mendez: Well when it came to the draft, I had no expectations. I knew that people would get told they go in the top ten and not go at all, some people get no interest at all until their names called, so really I had no expectations because it would only stress me out. I just said "everything happens for a reason" and just went on with my day. I knew that was something I couldn't control so I let the draft take its toll and was extremely happy to know I was going to a great organization who gives opportunities to those who perform and not so much politics.

CK: How was your transition to the professional ranks? Biggest difference between AZL and NYPL competition?

Mendez: My first few weeks were a little rough. I got away from my three pitches or less and was trying to do too much. but then I just figured out that hitters will get themselves out again and I began to have cleaner and quicker innings. The biggest difference from the AZL to New York- Penn league to me was the discipline on the hitters part. Hitters wouldn't chase as much and guys hit mistakes a little more often.




CK: What pitches do you have as of now? And which one in particular do you hope to improve upon heading onward?

Mendez: At the moment I have four seam, two seam, curve ball and change up. My change up has always been my least effective pitch until instructional league this year, when I got my slider taken away and put more focus on my change. The change going into this year is still my project, I know that with a real good change you can keep guys off of the fastball and make it look a little faster

CK: Digressing from baseball for a bit to hairstyles: Thinking about growing the hair out to Massad-esque proportions at any point during 2014? Would be pretty awesome, in my opinion.

Mendez: Well I always say that I won't grow my hair, but somewhere during the season I change my mind because nothing makes you look like ball player more than some curls out the back of the hat [Laughs]. And since I do most of the cutting hair on the team, I just dont feel like dealing with my own.




CK: Goals for 2014?

Mendez: My goals for this upcoming year, is do anything in my power to keep moving up. just want to become a better pitcher, so better command, better pitch selection, and improve my tempo and be a great teammate.

CK: Howdy there Dom, how has this offseason been treating you?

DV: This off-season has been great! Really enjoying the down time with the family. Just returned not too long ago from Chile went on a two week vacation visiting my dad’s side of the family. As for the baseball aspect, I am very pleased with the workouts and the throwing program. I feel like this time is just as important as the season. Preparing yourself properly to embark on the long season ahead. I’m excited to get back out to Arizona and out of the cold here in Maryland.

CK: Oakland has had a recent allegiance towards your college program, UNC-Greensboro, over the past half decade (Rob Gilliam, Jermaine Mitchell, Blake Hassebrock, Lee Land, Tyler Hollstegge). Did you know that the A's were interested in you at all prior to draft day?

DV: Yes, it has been quite a thrill seeing the guys you know still playing for the same team. Since I was a transfer I did not play with Rob and Blake. With that being said I know them pretty well and have worked out with them this off-season down at UNCG. I received a questionnaire following my two outings at Furman University. I did not know the interest level from the A’s until the third day of the draft. My area scout called me that morning, informing me that the A’s wanted to take me later that day. I was glued to the draft tracker since day one. Then I heard my name called. I was taken back, really just sat there and said to myself “this is what I worked for, can’t stop here, gotta keep on going”. It really set in when I was going to the airport headed for AZ.

CK: After transferring to UNCG you made a whopping 46 appearances with only a lone start. Pretty safe to say you're settled in to a bullpen role huh? 

DV: Yeah, the bullpen has been my home and will be from here on out I believe. I enjoy it a lot. In college I would pitch in the Friday game and bounce back sometimes Saturday if not, then they ran me right back out there on Sunday. Being out there when the game is on the line, and you have the ball in hand, that is the greatest feeling, personally.

CK: Was the pick at 32nd overall a surprise? 

DV: I feel like it was the right round for me. I had a decent season my senior year. I figured going into the draft, if I was going to get selected then later on would be it. Numbers weren’t that great, but my area scout saw something and liked it enough to give me this opportunity. I felt like it was my round.

CK: You know, the A's have had a recent string of success with their 32nd overall pick over the past two seasons (Drew Granier, Ryan Dull). Think you can keep it up? Haha

DV: Yes, the 32’s have been successful for sure. These two guys have moved up quickly to Midland. Can I keep up? I feel like I can, having a good feeling about 2014. First full season, going to be a long one, but ready for what it has to offer.

CK: You were one of the first arms to receive a promotion to Vermont from the AZL. What was that transition back to the east coast like and how tricky was the transition to NYPL ball?

DV: The transition back to the east coast was amazing. Yes, the time change was a little rough the first couple of days. But being back in the same time zone, playing in areas near home was a great feeling. Overall being able to talk to my family for more than just a few texts a day was nice. I just missed the Aberdeen trip, would have been right next to my Juco. Would have been cool playing in front of all my friends and family.

CK: You had a little strikeout burst during your first professional stint by K'ing 38 in 30 innings. Do you feel like you can always get the strikeout? 

DV: I feel like I can in the right situations. With that being said, when I look back at this past season both in the NY-Penn and AZL I found myself throwing more pitches when I did get the strike out. Ultimately the more pitches you throw, out of the pen, the shorter your outings get. I love getting the big strikeout in the inning(s) don’t get me wrong, I need to conserve some pitches and produce soft contact.

CK: How was the instructional league this Fall as one of 21 pitchers in attendance?

DV: I enjoyed the Instructional league this fall. I was able to improve my mechanics and towards the end, begin to repeat the same delivery. With the other pitchers there it was beneficial , not only did we learn from the coaches and instructors, we learned and built off one another. 

CK: Can you give me a rundown of what pitches you have in your repertoire? And which one (s) are you really looking to emphasize improvement on entering 2014?

DV: I throw a 2-seam; inside to a righty and away from a lefty, getting good sink. 4-seam away from a righty and inside to a lefty. I also throw a splitter, which I use as my change-up

Last but not least my breaking ball that floats between the titles of a slider and a slurve (depends on the day I suppose). I feel like my splitter is the pitch I am looking to improve most of the three pitches. Primarily getting used to the ball change, from college to professional. With the high seams in college I was very comfortable with the grip. Now, I am getting a better feel for the splitter grip with these lower seamed baseballs.

CK: Are you already aware of whether or not you'll be staying in extended and be heading off to Vermont or if you'll have a shot to break camp with the Snappers?

DV: As of right now, I do not know. My goal and hope is to break camp and play for the Snappers in April. Feeling good about the March 3rd report date. Just have to take it one day at a time and work hard. I feel like Beloit will be a good start.

CK: What do you hope to accomplish during this 2014 season with the A's?

DV: I hope to continue to move up through the A’s systems. Working each day on my tasks at hand and becoming a better pitcher. I want to improve my command, swing recognition, and be more aggressive attacking the zone. Whether it is in the game, dry work, post outings, staying healthy and giving my team the best chance to win. Pitching is a relay race, you give it your all and when it’s your turn. Once your turn is up you hand it off to the next guy and he gives it his all.