I Want My Game Day Audio

If you're like me, and tried to tune in to the season opener, you were probably upset to learn that the Clearwater games are not broadcast on the minor league baseball network.  

I also had zero luck in finding a local online news source that provides a game day recap of the baseball team .

So, now that Chapman is a relief pitcher, and with limited media sources available, it appears it is going to be a challenge to track Chapman this season.  

2009 Roster

Our boy Chapman made the cut.  

The 2009 minor league roster is complete, and he is scheduled to play for the Clearwater Threshers this season.

The high A ball club is based in sunny Clearwater, Florida and the team was the 2007 Florida League Champions.

Don't know what it means, but it looks good!

I have been searching for any news out of Florida on Chapman and his performance during the exhibition games.  I haven't found anything!!!!

 But, I did find this website that had a whole bunch of stats and charts on him that looked pretty official.   Until I find something else exciting to report, this will have to do.

Spring Training

Thanks to the Phillies Insider, we have a better idea of what is going on in Florida.

Player development has begun for 167 minor league players.   The first game is scheduled for March 18.

The training will close on March 29 and some players will be released, while others fill the roster in Reading, Clearwater, or Lakewood.

2009 Goals

During an interview in December 2008, Chapman was asked his goals for the upcoming season.  His response was "To start Clearwater and make it to Reading during the year."   He also indicated that he may consider a switch to relief pitching.

Currently, the Clearwater Threshers is the high A minor league ball club for the 2008 World Champions, the Philadelphia Phillies.   The team's Double A ball club, is located in Reading, Pennsylvania, less than one hour drive from Philadelphia.  

For the complete interview with Chapman, go to http://blog.blueclaws.com/category/chance-chapman/

  

It's That Time Of Year Again

We're gearing up for baseball season, and no word from the California Kid!

I heard a rumor he is heading to Clearwater Florida March 1 for some spring training.  I am hoping he sends word after that as to where he will be based for the season, so I can pass along to you.  

Of course, we're crossing our fingers it's Reading or Allentown!!  

Number Five

Looks like this is my last post for the season. And, I am happy to report, that Chapman finished fifth in the league in ERA! Congratulations and safe travels back to California! See ya in the spring!

Final Game

9/1/2008
BlueClaws close season with 2-1 loss at Delmarva
Chapman takes loss despite strong outing

SALISBURY, Md. – The Lakewood BlueClaws ended the season on a bit of a sour note, dropping a 2-1 decision to the Delmarva Shorebirds on Monday night at Perdue Stadium.

Two third-inning runs were all that Delmarva needed in the final game of the 2008 campaign for both teams. Chance Chapman allowed three hits in the third inning, including an RBI single from Joe Nowicki that put the ‘Birds ahead 2-0.

Chapman (7-7) was strong with the exception of the third, but that was enough to mean the loss. Chapman finished the season .500, while the BlueClaws concluded the campaign 11-12 in games started by the 24-year old right-hander.

The BlueClaws gave it a late run against Delmarva starter Nate Nery (7-3) and bullpen pitcher Hank Williamson, but fell just short. Lakewood managed five of their eight hits in the final two innings. Matt Rizzotti’s base hit in the eighth off of Nery cut the ‘Birds lead to one, but the best chance did not come until the ninth.

Lakewood put two straight on against Williamson to open the ninth, but got nothing more, as the ‘Claws stranded the tying run in scoring position. Williamson earned his second save of the season with his 1 1/3 innings.

Nery was fantastic for the second straight start against the BlueClaws. The Delmarva lefty worked 7 2/3 innings of one-run ball, outdoing the seven scoreless he threw in Lakewood last week. He also struck out five and walked just one.

Eric McConnell pitched two scoreless frames of relief, while Reymond Cruz came in and pitched a quick eighth inning.

Despite the loss, the BlueClaws (42-28, 80-60) still finished with the best overall record in the North Division and second-best record in franchise history. Only the championship squad of 2006 posted a better overall record.