Second Half Record: 25-25
The Naturals struggled to get the bats going this week. The squad only scored 11 total runs in their six games, averaging just 4.6 hits per game. Just one batter established an OPS over .700 against the Arkansas Travelers’ pitching on the road trip. The two usual suspects, Tyson Guerrero and Steven Zobac threw great starts off the mound. Four relievers managed scoreless weeks, enabling the Naturals to eek out a couple of wins while on the road. The AA affiliate managed to find two wins despite their shortcomings, bringing the weekly record to 2-4.
Pitcher of the Week
Typically, it’s required that a pitcher throws a quality start to find their way here. Tyson Guerrero came just one out shy of that going 5.2 innings with four hits, two walks, six strikeouts, and zero runs allowed. What helps him stand out is that he has just missed this honor for weeks now. As a delayed honor for the 25-year-old, Guerrero nabs the spot this week for a great outing that falls just shy of an official quality start.
Tyson Guerrero started the season on a rocky note, posting a 9.92 ERA in May followed by 4.68 in June. Since then he has figured out how to approach the plate, turning his season around completely. Over five starts in July, his ERA was a healthy 2.52 with a .189 opponent average. In August he’s been borderline untouchable. Over four starts Guerrero owns a 0.73 ERA, 0.77 WHIP, and a measly .153 opponent average. His punchout numbers aren’t eye-popping yet sits at a very respectable 22 strikeouts on six walks in 24.2 innings pitched.
Hitter of the Week
Peyton Wilson was the sole batter to post an OPS above .700 with a .812 benchmark while playing in all six games. His slash of .263/.391/.421 was bolstered by four walks, four hits, and a home run, getting him on base nine times in the six-game stretch. With this week, Wilson flashes what could be his ceiling, with great on-base ability and the type of bat that produces weekly home runs.
We haven’t covered Wilson much this season. His batting average rests at .235 over his 111 games which has limited his overall impact this season. He’s managed to put up 14 home runs on the year (fourth on the team) and an on-base of .350. If the on-base maintains and the average can jump back to normal we could be seeing a pretty large uptick in production.
Other Notables
Steven Zobac threw 6 innings of one-run ball racking up 6 strikeouts, 2 walks, and 4 hits.
Ryan Brady struck out 7 in 3.2 IP. He gave up just one run in 3 appearances.
Beck Way pitched two scoreless outings for 4.0 total innings. He struck out 5, walked 1 and gave up just 1 hit.
What’s Next
The Naturals are back home in Springdale for a series against the Frisco RoughRiders. Frisco is currently five games above .500 and second in the Texas League South. The Naturals will have to come in with their bats significantly warmer to improve their second-half outlook. For the locals, be on the lookout for Dollar Dog Night, Buck Brats, and a Jorge Bonifacio bobblehead during this week’s promotions.
Photo Credit: Thomas Raymond Media