EL1 Trenton Thunder

Trenton Series Preview August 16-18

Published on August 14, 2013 under Eastern League (EL1)
Trenton Thunder News Release


MANCHESTER, N.H. - The following is a look at what's coming to Northeast Delta Dental Stadium during the next home series, a three-game set with the Trenton Thunder (New York Yankees) beginning on Friday, August 16. It will be the final weekend series of the regular season.

OPPONENT

It's the Future Yankees vs. the Future Blue Jays, but this series will have huge playoff implications in the present. Trenton currently holds second place in the Eastern Division, but three teams, including the Fisher Cats, are right on their heels for that final postseason berth. The two teams split a four-game series in New Jersey a month ago, but the Fisher Cats took two of three the only time they played here in New Hampshire in the second series of the season back in April.

TOP PROSPECTS

The Yankees always have a terrific farm system, and keep turning those top prospects into long-time major league stars with their club. They recently promoted the number two ranked catcher to Trenton, and also have another of the top 100 minor leaguers on their roster, as well as an outfielder who just needs to remain healthy in order to become a big-time star.

C Gary Sanchez is the second-ranked catching prospect in the minors behind former Fihser Cats Travis d'Arnaud, and was recently promoted to the Thunder from Advanced-A Tampa, where he hit 13 home runs. He's 20 years old and is already known for his rocket throwing arm and power bat. He needs to handle the rigors of playing behind the plate every day, but his body still has room to grow, which should help. OF Tyler Austin is a top-100 overall prospect, who made a name for himself in 2011 by hitting .354, just one year after being drafted in the 13th round. He missed some time last season, including the Futures Game, with a concussion, but still led the organization in average and slugging percentage. A converted infielder, Austin should be a regular in right field at Yankee Stadium very soon. OF Slade Heathcott has a chance to be a true five-tool player, with great range and a powerful throwing arm in center field, and plenty of speed to burn on the bases. His average and power need work, but is expected to develop. His problem is staying healthy, as his all-out approach to the game has led to numerous injuries. LHP Nik Turley is a big and strong lefty with good command, which has drawn comparisons to Andy Pettitte. He was the Yankees 50th-round draft pick in 2008, number 1,502 overall, but has developed what should be four above-average major league pitches, which should be good enough to land him in the Yankees rotation in the next few years. PROMOTIONS

Friday, August 16 at 7:05 PM: An Atlas fireworks show will follow the game, and it's a Scout Night sleepover, where Scouts will be able to watch a movie on the center field video board, participate in a pre-game parade around the field, and more. Saturday, August 17 at 7:05 PM: Another Atlas fireworks show, presented by ENH Power, will follow the game, and all fans can win by playing USA Subs Baseball Bingo. Sunday, August 18 at 1:35 PM: The first 1,000 kids will receive a Fisher Cats t-shirt, courtesy of the UNIQUE College Investing Plan. Those who rode in the Granite State Ride will be honored on the field, and the team will wear special jerseys which will be auctioned off, with proceeds to benefit Team Emma's Enchantment and the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.

Tickets are available by visiting www.nhfishercats.com, stopping by the box office at the ballpark, or by calling (603) 641-2005. For more information on the above events, please contact Tom Gauthier at tgauthier@nhfishercats.com.

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