(Free Preview of Premium Content)The Eastern League played their annual All-Star Game on Wednesday, with the Northern Division beating the Southern Division by the score of 9-6. In the game, New Britain slugger Danny Matienzo showed the entire league why he is a big prospect within the Twins organization.
Batting from the seventh slot, and playing as the designated hitter, Matienzo was perfect at the plate. He went 3-3, scored twice and drove in a run. One of his three hits was a double.
On the year, Matienzo is batting .284, with 18 home runs and 66 RBI. He has been the Rock Cats most consistent slugger, serving as the team's cleanup hitter.
Douglas Deeds batted eighth in the game and was the Northern Division’s left-fielder. Deeds picked up one hit in four at-bats, but struck out and left four runners on base. He did play a flawless left-field for the Northern Division, making one play in the second inning.
Deeds is one of the best young sluggers in the Twins organization. He is batting .285 this season, with nine home runs and 43 RBI.
Jason Miller came on in relief for the North, throwing a scoreless inning. Although he allowed a hit and a walk, Miller struck out two, getting Josh Bonifay and Pat Osborn to strikeout on consecutive at-bats.
Miller has been great all season out of the Rock Cats bullpen. He has not lost a game since June 2, and boasts a 2.72 ERA. He has saved four games and has a 0.73 ERA at home.
New Britain continues their regular season on Thursday, as they take on New Hampshire. At 39-51, the Rock Cats are in last place in the Northern Division, 9.5 games behind first place Portland.