Arizona League action is underway!

June 27, 2006

It looked like last year would be the final year for the rookie level Arizona League, as the big league teams had voted to cut out a level of minor league ball, including elimination of the two complex rookie leagues. Calmer heads finally prevailed, so the Arizona League, one of minor league baseball's best kept secrets is back for another year.

The 2006 season started on June 22nd, with the highlight of opening day being the performance of Los Angeles Angels first round choice, catcher Hank Conger. Performing in front of Angels owner Arte Moreno and general manager Bill Stoneman, the switch-hitting Conger smacked a triple off the left field fence in his first at bat. He later added a single and double in his debut game.

Jeremy Jeffress, another of the first round choices in the Arizona League, is scheduled to make his first start for the Brewers this Thursday. The Virginia high school product was consistently clocked in high school at the mid to high 90s.

Kansas City's 2005 second round choice, shortstop Jeff Bianchi, was arguably the best hitter in the AZL last year, batting .408/.484/.745. Because he missed more than half of his rookie campaign and was still suffering from the effects of a shoulder injury, the Royals brought the Pennsylvania native back the Arizona for the start of the 2006 short season. Bianchi is 6 for 13 after the Royals' first four games, hitting his first homerun earleri today.

Anthony Varvaro, like St. John's teammate Craig Hansen, was slated to be a high draft choice one year ago. But the right-handed pitcher needed Tommy John surgery, and dropped to the 12th round of the 2005 draft. The Mariners took a chance on the Staten Island native and, if his initial pro game is any indication, the Mariners may some day be glad they took a flyer on Varvaro. He pitched two scoreless innings against the Brewers on Sunday, yielding only a walk while fanning three batters.

Seattle's first round choice, U. of California pitcher Brandon Morrow, is working out at the Mariners complex in Peoria, AZ. He's listed on the rookie league roster, but it's still uncertain whether he will make any appearances before heading off to another Seattle affiliate.

Among the veteran rehab players that have appeared in early Arizona League games were Phil Norton (Cubs), Angel Pagan (Cubs), Aaron Baldiris (Rangers), Ruddy Yan (Rangers), Mike Coolbaugh (Royals), Julian Benavidez (Giants) and Matt Hensley (Angels).

Arizona League games take place at the training facilities for each of the nine organizations based in the Phoenix area. Game times are at 10:30 am, until July 27th when all games for the remaining of the season begin at 7:00 pm. Admission is free for all Arizona League games.

--- Bill Mitchell