POUNDERS NAMED CAROLINA LEAGUE PITCHER OF WEEK
Pounders tossed 14 innings in two starts, allowing one unearned run on seven hits. He walked one man while striking out 12 batters. He was 1-0 in those two starts. He claimed that victory on August 13 in Potomac against the Nationals before he went seven shutout frames on August 18 against the Lynchburg Hillcats. In that time, he lowered his ERA by more than a full point, from 5.43 to 4.35.
The Temecula, CA native was a second-round draft pick of the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2009 MLB June Free Agent Draft. He spent three years in their chain, reaching as high as Low-A West Virginia in 2011. He was traded to the Kansas City Royals for Yamaico Navarro in December of last year. The 21-year-old began the year at Low-A Kane County, where he pitched to a 3.38 ERA and 3-2 record. He logged 50.2 innings, allowing 52 hits, 19 walks and 57 strikeouts in 12 appearances and eight starts.
He was promoted to Wilmington on June 9. With the Rocks so far, he has compiled a 5-4 record with a 4.35 ERA. The 6'5" righty has worked 70.1 innings and has surrendered 77 hits and 24 walks to go along with 63 strikeouts in 13 nods and one relief appearance.
Pounders is the third Blue Rock this year to be recognized by the Carolina League. Catcher Kevin David was named the league's Player of the Week for May 14-20, while right-hander Greg Billo was awarded the honor for May 21-27.
Come out to Frawley Stadium for the final regular-season homestand of our 20th season. The Blue Rocks begin a seven-game homestand against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans on Monday, August 27, at 6:35 p.m. For tickets, please call 302-888-BLUE or visit bluerocks.com.