Rafael Rodriguez, the Dominican outfielder signed last July by San Francisco for a franchise-record $2.55 million, played in his first Arizona League game on Sunday.
Rodriguez recorded only one hit in six plate appearances, an RBI single in his first at-bat, but showed his skill in other areas. In the bottom of the first inning, Rafael prevented a one-out-runner-at-third situation for his pitcher by recording an outfield assist. And after reaching on a fielder's choice in the tenth, Rodriguez recorded his first career stolen base.
The six-foot-five prospect, who will turn seventeen in July and is the youngest player on the AZL Giants' roster, also made some mistakes. He was caught stealing after his only hit, and was thrown out at home trying to score the go-ahead run from second on a single in the tenth inning. But after all, it was only a rookie league game.
Second-baseman Julio Izturis, a 2006 signee from Venezuela, also made his U.S. debut for the Giants, collecting four hits (including a double) and a run in seven at-bats in the lead-off slot. He also stole two bases. Izturis is the brother of major leaguer Maicer Izturis (Angels). Julio's half-brother Cesar Izturis (Orioles) also plays the infield in the big leagues.
The starting pitcher for the Giants was a name familiar to fans of San Francisco's big league club. Joe Martinez, who was lucky to escape serious injury when he was stuck in the head with a line drive in April, was pitching in a rehab assignment. Martinez allowed three earned runs in two and two-thirds innings of work.
Monday, June 22, 2009
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