Second Half Record: 30-32
The Naturals went into Springdale to face off against the Cardinals and left with the satisfaction of keeping them from winning both halves of the minor league season. While alternating wins and losses, the Naturals won some close, well-played games. However, they struggled to keep opposing runs off the board in their losses. Springfield scored double-digit runs in two of the three Naturals losses last week. The Naturals’ wins, however, were close games as they all required saves by Beck Way.
Pitcher of the Week
This was a close race between three or four pitchers. As we narrow down the list, one name flies under the radar until you realize the scale of his single appearance. Luinder Avila came in last week ready to make his second appearance since returning from an injury. In his first start back two weeks ago, he posted a two-inning start with two strikeouts, one hit, and zero runs. Avila came out last week being allowed to stretch it back out for a four-inning start. He pitched four perfect innings for the Naturals with four strikeouts in the process. It wasn’t a big strikeout week for the Naturals as they faced a very successful Cardinals squad.
Avila struggled mightily to start the season but turned it around in a big way in June. He was the Farm to Fountains pitcher of the month, posting a 1.93 ERA over 28 innings with 33 strikeouts. He subsequently got hurt just two starts later and was out for a month and a half. It was very poor timing, but it appears that he has come back strong. Avila earns the weekly spot this week, not skipping a beat in his return to the mound for the Naturals.
Hitter of the Week
Diego Hernandez, not typically known for his power prowess, had three extra-base hits in his four starts last week. He collected seven hits including a home run and two doubles. He didn’t start every game, but he slashed an impressive .438/.471/1.221. The defensive outfielder was locked in at the plate, striking out just one time over his 16 at-bats. It isn’t world-breaking over just one week, but it does signal the type of play he is capable of.
Hernandez had lived in the Royals’ top 30 prospects list for a couple of years before falling out this season. He’s extremely fast, boasting a 70-grade run grade, and is graded at 60 for both his arm and fielding tools. His hitting needs to develop to see large MLB potential. He profiles best as a zone-hawk who can put the ball in play. If he can find a way at just 23 years old to bulk up, add double-digit home run power, and increase his contact percentages, he could be a stud. Time will tell if last week’s Diego Hernadez can stick around for the long haul.
Other Notables
Carter Jensen posted a .941 OPS while hitting 4 RBI. He showed three tiers to his offense with a .300 average, 3 extra-base hits, and 3 walks in 5 games played.
Keylan Killgore continued his success with 3.2 scoreless innings while striking out 5. He allowed just 2 hits and one walk over 3 appearances.
Beck Way saved all 3 of the Naturals wins this week. Way struck out 5 in 3.0 IP, giving up one run on 2 hits.
Anderson Paulino threw 5 scoreless innings over 3 appearances. He struck out 5, giving up 4 hits.
Jack Pineda drove in 6 RBI and scored 5 runs of his own last week. He posted a .941 OPS while being responsible for those 11 total runs.
Dillan Shrum had a triple and 2 doubles while posting a 1.069 OPS in 5 games. He drove in 4 runs and batted .375.
What’s Next
The Naturals are at home against the Arkansas Travelers for their final series of the season. The Travelers took advantage of the Naturals split against Springfield by clinching the second-half best record in the Texas League North. The Naturals will look to finish the season strong against a tough opponent.
Image credit: Northwest Arkansas Naturals
