Minor League Wrapup: 8-12

As the big club is playing on Sunday Night Baseball, the Braves’ top three minor league squads were in action.

AAA – Gwinnett 5, Louisville 2

The long ball got the job done for Gwinnett against the Reds’ AAA squad, with Ernesto Mejia, Rusty Ryal (pictured above), and Brian Friday all homered off our old friend Todd Redmond in the 4th inning to score all five runs.  It was also the site of a rehab start for Tommy Hanson, who threw five scoreless innings, walking two and striking out five.  Peter Moylan also had a shaky outing, giving up two runs in the eighth inning.  Gwinnett is nearing playoff elimination at 55-68.

AA – Mississippi 11, Birmingham 4

A middle-inning surge lifts the Braves past the White Sox AA affiliate.  It was a balanced effort throughout the lineup, with the 9 through 3 hitters all scoring two runs each.  Zeke Spruill got off to a shaky start, allowing a homer to the leadoff hitter of the game, but settled down to get through six innings, allowing  two runs, three walks, and six strikeouts.  After finishing last in the South division in the first half, the Braves are fourth this half, so there will be no playoffs for the squad.

A+ – Carolina 5, Lynchburg 0

It was a forgettable night for the Hillcats as they get blanked by the Indians’ High-A affiliate.  Aaron Northcraft threw alright, allowing three earned runs in seven innings, striking out seven and only walking one.  Edward Salcedo really wants to forget tonight, striking out three of his four plate appearances while also making his 34th error of the season.  Lynchburg is just under .500 in the second half, but they will be in the playoffs after winning the first half.

Rome had the day off, while Danville ousted the Mets Adv. Rookie squad 6-5 in 13 innings.  It has been a rough season for the Braves’ system, but we will get to follow at least one playoff run this year.