Athletics Minor League Baseball Blog

It’s the PCL so high pitching numbers are the norm but the River Cats had their share of solid starters in 2011.

Travis Banwart – the workhorse on the staff, this 25 year old led the team with 149 2/3 innings, 120 strikeouts and nine losses.  He didn’t get a call up but this may have had as much to do with the River Cats late run.  He did give up 22 home runs and his fly ball rate isn’t great so it’ll be interesting to see how it all translates into an MLB run.

Graham Godfrey – Godfrey had a really nice run and he finished 14-3 in 107 1/3 innings for the River Cats. He was eventually brought up for a major league stint but he got it done for the River Cats when he pitched with them.  He only gave up six home runs despite a subpar ground ball rate.

Fernando Cabrera – Cabrera was probably the best guy out of the pen in 2011.  He struck out 73 in 63 and he needs it because he has a rough ground ball rate.  He saved nine games and finished with a 2.71 ERA.

The River Cats had another great season and while they came short in the championship, they won the PCL again and had their share of hitting stars.  Here’s a look at the top of the list.

Jai Miller – Miller led the team in most offensive categories.  He finished with 32 home runs, 88 RBIs and 81 run in 110 games.  He had a very nice .956 OPS the soon to be 27 year old had a short stint with the A’s.

Chris Carter – Before getting called up, Carter hit 18 home runs with an .897 OPS.   He didn’t put up the numbers that Miller had, but what he did do he managed in 75 games.

Matt Carson – Matt was second on the team with 19 home runs and he drove in 65 in his stint with the River Cats.  This was in just 90 games.