May 2024 Review

For most of the month of May, the Beavers saw some good wins offset by an equal number of losses. The team finished strong, however, by winning the final three games to finish with a record of 16-12 for the month. The surge enabled the Beavers to end May continuing to lead the Earl Weaver Division with a 33-22 record. 

Fan interest continued to be on the rise. During the first two months attendance has averaged over 48,500 per game, an increase of 14.2% over 2023. Owner William McAllister is very pleased in that this exceeds one of the goals he set for the front office.

Top Performances

For a few years the front office team has been searching for a long-term solution in center field. In early July of last season Wilson Flores took advantage of the opportunity to play every day. He performed very well during the latter half of the season. This year he continues to demonstrate that he deserves to continue to start. In May he led the Beavers with 24 RBI. He also clubbed 6 HR, batted .302/.348/.519, and stole 7 bases in 8 attempts. 

Wilson Cruz led all pitchers by posting a 4-2 record with a 2.76 ERA and a 1.11 WHIP in six starts. For the season, he leads the club with a 6-3 record and a 3.00 ERA. In his third full season with the Beavers, he continues to improve. He seems to be developing the skills necessary to contribute over time as a solid member of the rotation.

During the month of May, three-time MVP Nick Holmes was once again an offensive force. Holmes led the Beavers with 30 runs scored, was second in RBI with 22, and led the team with a .982 OPS. Two months into the season he is scoring runs at a pace that could result in 173 runs scored for the season.

Notes

During May Wilson Flores and Nick Holmes each were awarded TML Player of the Week honors.

Starting pitcher Fred Watson was suspended 10 games after a wild altercation with Frank Coleman of the Mustangs. To date Watson has been terrible, so the suspension may prove to be a blessing. He will have some time to work on his skills and, hopefully, pitch much better after he returns to action.

Current Injuries

Thankfully current injuries include only carryovers Alfonzo Alonzo and Antonio Barbarro. Alonzo's shoulder is healing as expected. He may see action in September. Barbarro will not be ready for action until next season.

Down on the Farm

Vancouver, Boise, and Eugene each are playing lousy baseball.

The emotions bubbling through the minor league organization erupted during a game involving the Emeralds and the Winfield Warriors. The principals brawled, benches cleared, and a whole lot of shoving took place among the bystanders. When the dust settled, shortstop Horiuchi Rin, of the Emeralds, and reliever Banyu Rais, of the Warriors, each were suspended for 5 games.