Arizona Fall League Check-In: Oct 31

The Desert Dogs kicked off their week with an afternoon game against the Mesa Solar Sox, losing 3-1.

A whopping six of the seven Yankees prospects got playing time in this game, so I’ll just try to hit on the high points. Third baseman Ronnier Mustelier hit cleanup for the Desert Dogs and went 1-4 with a home run, his second of the season. Left fielder Rob Segedin was 1-3 with a double, and second baseman Corban Joseph was 1-4, with his one hit also a double.

David Phelps started the game and went 5.0 strong innings, allowing just one hit, one walk, and striking out three while holding the Solar Sox scoreless. He threw 67 pitches, 41 of which were strikes (or 62%). The only real low point of Phelps’ day was an error on a pickoff throw to 1st base. Dan Burawa pitched the 8th inning and got knocked around a bit, allowing 2 ER on 2 hits and 1 walk. Preston Claiborne followed and pitched a dominant 9th inning, allowing just one hit and bringing his season ERA down to an even 1.00. Claiborne has been nothing if not dominant during his AFL stint – he has not allowed a run since Oct. 18 and has not allowed an earned run since Oct. 5.

The Desert Dogs will take on the Salt River Rafters at 2:35 PM EST this afternoon.