December 20, 2012

Minor League Update

Games of December 19

by Jason Martinez

As free agent pitcher Edwin Jackson closes in on a decision on which team gets to pay him about $13 million per season for the next four years, I'll remind you once again that Javier Vazquez, who decided not to play in 2012, is pitching in Puerto Rico and could announce his return before the season starts. The 36 year-old, who was still a very effective pitcher for the Marlins in 2011, has a 3.71 ERA, 3 walks, and 23 strikeouts (11 on Wednesday) over his first 17 innings for Ponce. Vazquez made about $100 million in his major league career, so I'm not saying the ridiculous amount of money being spent on free agent pitchers this offseason is going to sway him back to the majors. Actually, I am saying that. Since when is $100 million enough money for anyone?  

Notable performances from La Liga de Beisbol Profesional Roberto Clemente  

• Yadiel Rivera, SS, Milwaukee Brewers: 2-for-4, K. It's worth mentioning Rivera whenever he has a solid game at the plate. The 20 year-old, who played in the Lo-A Midwest League in 2012, has raw power (85 extra base hits in 282 minor league games) and solid defensive skills but his career .274 OBP tells us he has a long ways to go.
• Henry Ramos, OF, Boston Red Sox: 3-for-3,

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