 Tucson Toros 2009 Season Game Highlights
This is a recap of all the Tucson Toroso 2009 inaugural season games. The new Tucson Toros play at Hi Corbett Field in Tucson, Arizona.
Toros Walkoff In To The GBL Championships!
9/7/09 Tucson, AZ – The Tucson Toros swept the St. George Roadrunners in back-to-back games Monday, including an 11th inning walkoff 5-4 win to advance to the GBL Championship Series beginning Wednesday in Tucson at 7:00 p.m. The Toros will host the Calgary Vipers at Hi Corbett Field for Games 1 & 2 of the best of five game series on Wednesday and Thirsty Thursday!
Tucson faced a must win situation in the first contest to even force a Game 5. The game was a continuation of Sunday’s contest that was halted by heavy rains with the score tied 1-1 in the middle of the 4th inning. Tucson attacked first after play resumed, plating 1 in the 6th inning and 3 in the 7th inning thanks in part to a 2-run double by Rightfielder Andre Marshall to make the game 5-1. The 4-run advantage was more than enough for Toros righty Lorenzo Barcelo, who blazed through the Roadrunners lineup for 4 scoreless innings while fanning 4. Reid Price came on in the 9th to lock down the 5-1 victory and force a decisive Game 5.
Barcello was credited with the win in the first game, and was efficient enough to come back and start the second half of the twin billing, continuing his dominance over St. George this postseason. Lorenzo pitched 5 innings of 1-run ball in his second game of the day, and was in line for his second win of the day when he departed. Tucson rocked St. George ace Raymar Diaz for 4 runs, knocking him out of the game in the 4th frame with the Toros leading 4-1.
The Roadrunners battled back though, scoring twice in the 6th and once in the 7th to tie the game 4-4, a tie that would stand all the way into the bottom of the 11th. In the 11th Skip Adams and Junior Spivey both singled to left to open the inning. After Dustin Yount flew out to center, Centerfielder Lino Garcia stepped to the plate. A full 4 hours and 12 minutes after the second game began, and 6 hours and 9 minutes after the first action of the day, Garcia drilled an RBI walkoff single to left allowing Adams to slide in safely to seal the 5-4 win and Tucson’s spot in the GBL Championship Series in their inaugural season.
Tickets will go on sale for both Wednesday’s and Thursday’s games on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. at regular season prices. Game 2 will be a bonus Thirsty Thursday, featuring $1 beverages for two hours after the first pitch. The series will continue in Calgary for Game 3 on Saturday and Games 4 & 5 if necessary on Sunday and Monday respectively.
 TOROS LOSE GAME ONE SLUGFEST 9-8
9/9/09 Tucson, AZ – The Tucson Toros lost game one of the GBL Championship, 9-8, to the Calgary Vipers, Wednesday night. Game one, of the best of five series, featured 28 total hits as Calgary pounded out 16 hits, while the Toros slugged 12, including two homeruns. Junior Spivey hit one of the Toros’ homeruns in his 3-3 night. The second baseman also scored four times and drove in one RBI.
First baseman Dustin Yount also had a good day at the plate as he went 3-4, scored once and drove in one run. Andre Marshall only picked up one hit in the game but he made it count as it was a solo homerun in the seventh inning. Jason Jacome got the start on the hill for the Toros, where he went 4 1/3 innings. On the night, the veteran lefty gave up six runs, on 12 hits, and he struck out two Calgary batters. Jordan Muir was the first Toro out of the bullpen, where he threw 2 1/3 innings of relief. Muir gave up three runs, on three hits, before giving way to Jason Hanna, who threw the final 2 1/3, of scoreless baseball. Game two, of the best-of-five championship series, is scheduled for Thursday, at Hi Corbett field. First pitch is scheduled for 7:00 pm; gates open at 6:00 pm.
Toros Win Resumed Game 5-1, Force Pivotal Game 5 Tonight
9/7/09 Tucson, AZ - The Tucson Toros won 5-1 in a continuation of Sunday's suspended game to force a pivotal Game 5 set to take place as the second half of a doubleheader this evening. The game will be underway shortly in a contest that will determine who will advance to take on the Calgary Vipers in the GBL Championship Series. A box score of the resumed game is attached, full recaps to follow the second game of the doubleheader.
Toros Playoff Game 4 Suspended Due To Rain
9/6/09 - Tucson, AZ – The Tucson Toros and St. George Roadrunners were suspended by the umpires in the middle of the 4th inning Sunday due to heavy rains at Hi Corbett Field. The game was halted with the teams tied 1-1 heading into the bottom of the 4th inning. Game 4 will be resumed where it left off on Monday, September 7th at 6:00 p.m. with gates opening at 5:30 p.m. If the Toros win the resumed game and force a Game 5, it would also take place on Monday following the completion of Game 4.
Toros Shutout By Roadrunners 1-0 In Game 3
9/5/09 Tucson, AZ – The Tucson Toros were on the wrong end of a 1-0 pitchers duel, as they were shutout by the St. George Roadrunners in Game 3 of the GBL Southern Divisional Series. With the loss, Tucson now trails in the series 2-1 and will need wins both Sunday and Monday against St. George to advance to the GBL Championship Series. The story of the game was the magnificent pitching and defense by both teams, leading to a rare game with zero earned runs. Roadrunner Starter David Seccombe threw 8 scoreless innings to earn the win before ceding to Julio Castro to close it out in the 9th for his second save of the post season.
On the Toros side, Lefty Vince Davis matched Seccombe with 8 innings of his own. However, his own throwing error in the 5th inning led to the only run of the game. Tucson had their best scoring chances early, with a pair of runners on in each of the first two innings, but were unable to come through with the big hit. St. George’s pitching really kicked in from that point on, as Tucson managed just 3 baserunners after the 2nd frame.
The Toros will host the Roadrunners once again in a must win situation for Game 4 on Sunday at 7:00 p.m. at Hi Corbett Field. The game will be able to be heard live on COOL 1450 AM or online at www.tucsontoros.com. A box score for tonight’s game can be found at:http://www.pointstreak.com/baseball/boxscoretext.html?gameid=3322
ST. GEORGE TIES SERIES AT 1-1
9/4/09 Tucson, AZ – The Tucson Toros dropped game two of the GBL’s South Division championship, 6-3, to the St. George Roadrunners, Friday night. With the loss, the series is evened up at 1-1 in the best-of-five. St. George scored two runs in the first inning and Tucson answered back in their half of the first as Junior Spivey hit a solo-blast over the leftfield fence. The Roadrunners scored runs in both the third and fourth innings, increasing their lead to 6-1.
Tucson battled back by scoring single runs in the fourth and eighth innings; including a solo homerun by Jim Rushford in the fourth. Rushford finished the night going 3-4, scored one run and drove in a pair of RBI. Late season pickup, Dustin Glant, got the start for the Toros, where he went 6 1/3 innings, giving up six runs, four earned, on 13 hits. Glant also picked up the loss in his first start Tucson. Toby Nordman and Jason Hanna appeared out of the Toros’ bullpen where they combined to throw 2 2/3 of shutout relief. Game three, of the best-of-five series, is scheduled for Saturday, 7:00 pm at Hi Corbett field. Gates open at 6:00 pm.
TOROS THURS. PLAYOFF GAME POSTPONED
St. George, Utah – Game two of the 2009 GBL South Division Championship, scheduled for tonight, has been postponed due to unplayable field conditions. With tonight’s postponement, the remaining games of the five-game series will be played in Tucson, at Hi Corbett field. Game two is set for 7:00 pm Friday; game three Saturday at 7:00 pm; and, if necessary, games four and five will be played Sunday, (7:00 pm) and Monday, (time to be announced). Tickets for all games will be available at the Tucson Toros’ ticket office, located at Hi Corbett field.
Toros Victorious In First GBL Playoff Game With 9-4 Win In St. George
9-02-09 - St. George, UT – The Tucson Toros jumped out to an early 3-0 lead in their first ever GBL playoff game and never looked back, defeating the St. George Roadrunners 9-4 Wednesday to take Game 1 of the best of 5 series. Tucson never trailed in the contest after scoring 3 times in the first inning.
St. George starter Raymar Diaz fanned Toros leadoff hitter Skip Adams to open the game, but allowed the next four batters to reach base in a big first inning for Tucson. Junior Spivey singled to Rightfield before both Dustin Yount and Lino Garcia drew walks off of Diaz to load the bases. Jim Rushford hit an RBI single to bring in Spivey. Andre Marshall followed with a sacrifice fly and Mayobanex Santana drilled an RBI single to give Tucson a 3-0 off of St. George’s ace before the Roadrunners had their first chance to bat.
The teams exchanged runs in the second inning and Tucson maintained a 3-run lead into the 5th inning when a 2-run blast by Lino Garcia made it 5-1. Garcia had five longballs during the regular season. Catcher Luis Apodaca, who went the entire regular season with out a home run, hit a towering solo shot that clear the scoreboard at Bruce Hurst Field, giving Tucson a 7-1 lead.
While the offense was rolling, Tucson starter Lorenzo Barcelo was overcoming the short field dimensions by inducing ground ball after ground ball. Barcelo was backed by stellar defense by the Toros, including nice plays by Santana at First Base, Adams at Third and a pair of spears on hard balls up with the middle by the moundsman himself. Lorenzo strung together four consecutive scoreless frames after the 2nd inning, but ran into trouble in the bottom of the 7th.allowing 3 runs, including a 2-run shot to St. George Centerfielder Ryan Stevenson, his second homer of the game. Barcelo finished with 4 runs allowed in 7 1/3 innings on 8 hits and no walks, while striking out 3.
Tucson added a pair of insurance runs in the 9th inning and relievers Cibney Bello and Reid Price combined to blank the Roadrunners 1 2/3 innings of work to close out the first GBL playoff win in franchise history and an early 1-0 series lead.
The Toros and Roadrunners will play one more game in St. George Thursday at 6:05 p.m. (Tucson time) before heading home to Hi Corbett Field for Game 3 on Friday at 7:00 p.m. Tucson’s broadcast experienced technical difficulties on Wednesday but it expected to be back up and working on Thursday on both COOL 1450 AM and streaming live on the web at www.tucsontoros.com.
A box score for tonight’s game can be found at: http://www.pointstreak.com/baseball/boxscoretext.html?gameid=3315
Toros Clinch GBL Southern Division Title With 5-4 Victory
Adams Plays All Nine For Toros
8/31/09 - Tucson, AZ – The Tucson Toros closed out the 2009 GBL regular season with an 8-5 loss to the St. George Roadrunners. The Toros complete their first season in the independent professional league with an over record of 38-35; 20-14 in the second half, and a playoff spot in the South Division championship. Skip Adams was the player of the game for the Toros as he played all nine positions in the regular season finale. Adams’ night started behind the dish then he moved on to third, shortstop, second, first, right field, center field, leftfield and finally, on the mound. Adams also had a good day with the bat as he went 2-4, hit a triple, scored one run and drove in a pair of RBI.
Andre Marshall was the top performer at the plate for Tucson as he went 3-4, with three singles, a stolen base and a run scored. Brian Daly got the start for the Toros, on the hill, where he went four innings deep. Daly gave up six runs, on nine hits, and picked up the loss, (1-3). Jason Jacome, Toby Nordman, Adams and Ryan Priddy also made appearances on the mound. Jacome and Nordman combined for four innings of work while Adams and Priddy split the ninth. The Toros will hit the road Tuesday, and travel to St. George where they will open up the 2009 GBL playoffs against the Roadrunners, on Wednesday. Game two will also be in St. George, on Thursday; then the two teams return to Tucson for game three, of the best of five series, on Friday. The two games in St. George start at 6:05 pm Tucson time with game-three starting at 7:00 pm, at Hi Corbett field.
The Tucson Toros have clinched the GBL Southern Division Second Half title and will go to the playoffs in their inaugural season with 5-4 victory over St. George Sunday.
8/30/09 - Tucson, AZ – The Tucson Toros will head to the playoffs after clinching the GBL Southern Division second half title with a 5-4 win over first round opponent St. George Saturday night.
The Roadrunners jumped out to an early lead with with a pair of runs in the top of the first inning against Tucson starter Vince Davis, but the Toros bounced back with a run in each of the next four innings to hold a 4-2 after four frames. Davis settled in after the first to post his third straight quality start, limiting St. George to 3 runs (2 earned) in 6 2/3 innings of work while striking out 6. The start was the 8th straight for Davis in which he allowed 3 or fewer earned runs.
Each team added a run, with Tucson mainting a 2-run lead heading into the 9th with a score of 5-3. Tucson closer Reid Price entered in the 9th to close it out. St. George LF Ruddy Yan hit a solo shot to center to cut the lead to 1 run, but Price was able lock down his 11th save of the season, solidifying Tucson’s playoff spot in their first GBL season.
Tucson will face St. George in the first round of the GBL playoffs in a best of five series starting on the road in St. George for Game 1 on Wednesday and Game 2 on Thursday. The Toro’s will then return home to Hi Corbett Field for Game 3 on Friday, September 4th at 7:00 p.m. If necessary, Games 4 & 5 would take place at Hi Corbett Field on Saturday and Sunday respectively. Playoff tickets will go on sale for Game 3 tomorrow Sunday, August 30th at 10:00 a.m. All other potential playoff games will go onsale once they are necessary. Ticket prices and seating remain the same as the regular season.
Even though they clinched Sunday, the Toros will wrap up the regular season on Monday at Hi Corbett Field at 7:00 p.m when Toros position player Skip Adams will attempt to play all 9 defensive positions. The game can be heard live on COOL 1450 AM or streaming over the internet at www.tucsontoros.com.
A box score for Sunday’s game can be found at: http://www.pointstreak.com/baseball/boxscoretext.html?gameid=2091
TOROS DROP GAME 2 TO ST. GEORGE
8/29/09 - TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros attempted to clinch a spot in the 2009 GBL playoffs Saturday night, but fell short as they were defeated 6-2 by the St. George Roadrunners. Although they did not clinch, the Toros still have two more chances as they host St. George both Sunday and Monday nights. Rookie pitcher, Jordan Muir, got the start in front of 2910 Tucson faithful. Muir went five innings deep where he gave up three runs, on eight hits and he picked up the loss (1-4). Ryan Priddy and Lino Garcia were the Toros’ offensive standouts as Priddy went 2-3, and reached on a walk, while Garcia went 2-4, hit a double and drove in one RBI. With the loss the Toros overall record stands at 37-34, 20-13 in the second half, and they maintain a hold on first place in the South Division. Game three, of the four-game series, is scheduled to start at 7:00 pm Sunday with gates opening at 6:00 pm.
Tucson Toros Attempt To Clinch Division
Tucson, AZ – The Toros are on the verge of winning the GBL Southern Division second half title and could lock up a playoff spot as early as tonight. Tucson actually has a couple of ways to make the postseason, but the simplest way for Tucson to advance to postseason play would be to win the division. To do that Tucson needs to win 1 of their last 3 remaining games. The other option would be for St. George to win the Division in the second half (after already winning it in the first half) with Tucson having the second best overall record for the season. Tucson would be battling Long Beach in that scenario. If Tucson went winless for the rest of the year then they would need Long Beach to lose 2 times.
If one of these scenarios comes through and the Toros make the playoffs, they would take on St. George for a best of five game series beginning Wednesday, September 2nd and Thursday, September 3rd in George. The series would then return to Tucson for game 3 at Hi-Corbett Field on Friday, September 4th at 7:00 p.m. If games 4 and 5 are necessary they would take place Saturday and Sunday. The winner of the Southern Divisional Series would advance to face the winner of the GBL Northern Divisional Series for another best of five series. Both Calgary and Edmonton have already locked up playoff spots in the north.
The Toros will take on St. George tonight at 7:00 p.m. at Hi Corbett Field for the second game of a four game series to wrap up the regular season.
Toby Nordman (shown pitching in the photo below) was the first Toro out of the pen and he earned the win, improving to 2-1 on the season. The rookie left handed pitcher threw three and two-third innings of quality relief as he only surrendered two hits and didn’t give up any runs.
TOROS CLOSER TO PLAYOFFS
8/28/09 - TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros have set their magic number at “one” as they defeated the St. George Roadrunners 11-5, Friday night. With the win the Toros improve to 37-33, 20-12 in the second half and maintain their hold on first place in the South Division. Pete Hartmann, (2-2) got the start for the Toros, but he didn’t figure in the decision as he left the game after four innings of work. The veteran lefty gave up five runs, three earned, on seven hits before giving way to the Toros bullpen.
Jason Hanna finished out the game for the home side, where was also on top of his game, only allowing one hit over one and a third.
Curt Miaso had a stellar night at the plate as he went 3-4, hit a triple and drove in four RBI. Junior Spivey also had a great offensive night as he went 3-5, scored two runs and drove in one.
Andre Marshall and Dustin Yount also had multi-hit performances as they each went 2-3 in the win. Marshall also scored three runs while Yount drove in a pair. The two teams will hook up again tomorrow night at Hi Corbett field, for game two of the four-game series. Gates open up at 5:00 pm tomorrow as there will be a Toro Trading Card giveaway, along with a full team autograph signing 5:00 – 5:45 pm. The game is scheduled to start at 7:00 pm.
TOROS THIS WEEK- August 28-31
Tucson, AZ – The first place Tucson Toros will have a chance to clinch a spot in the GBL playoffs in front of their own fans during a four game series beginning Friday, August 28th when they host the South Division’s first half winner, the St. George Roadrunners.
In addition to the potential of celebratory champagne corks popping for the Toros, the skies themselves will be bursting on Friday with the final Fireworks Friday of the regular season.
On Saturday, August 29th the team will give away the Tucson Toros 2009 Baseball Card Set to the first 2,000 fans through the gates with paid admission. The Toros will host an accompanying autograph session as a special thank you from the team from 5:00-5:45. Fans will be able to get their team sets signed by the players and coaching staff during the autograph session.
On Sunday, August 30th, wedding bells will be ringing at the ballpark on Sunday when the winners of this year’s Toros Wedding package will be married at the game. The happy couple, Aaron and Amanda, competed with other finalists in contests on the field during the August 13th game, and came out victorious winning a Toros wedding package. The couple met playing softball, proposed during a Toros game and now will be married at the park! The game will also featured hot dogs for just $1.
Monday, Aug. 31 is Family Night, when families of up to five can get in (General Admission) for just $10. The game will mark the Toros final regular season game of the year, and hopefully sendoff into the playoffs if the team can clinch a postseason spot during the homestand. Tucson needs just two more wins to seal first place in the GBL Southern Division.
Aside from Saturday’s special autograph session, gates open at 6:00 pm each night with game action set to start at 7:00 pm.
Roadrunners Walk Off On Toros In Series Finale
8/27/09 - St. George, UT – The Tucson Toros lost to the St. George Roadrunners 2-1 Thursday night, and will now head home to try to clinch a playoff spot on their home field. The two teams match each other with 1 run apiece for the first 8 innings, but two singles and an error in the bottom of the 9th inning brought home the decisive second run for the Roadrunners as the walked off with a win.
The game was dominated by pitching from both sides, with just 11 combined hits and 17 combined baserunners for both team. Tucson Starter Lorenzo Barcelo went 8 stellar innings, allowing just 1 run on 5 hits and a walk, while striking out 5 batters. Barcelo was left with a no decision however, as Reliever Cibney Bello took the defeat in the 9th.
Designated Hitter continued his strong second have, driving in Tucson’s lone run with the team’s only extra-base hit of the night – a double that scored Third Baseman Skip Adams in the third inning. Junior Spivey, Luis Apodaca and Mayobanex Santana also had hits in the game.
Tucson will return home Friday to face the Roadrunners for a pivotal four game series that will determine the Toros playoff hopes. If the team wins two of the four games they will take the GBL Southern Division title and advance to the postseason. Tucson can also make the playoffs in some scenarios with fewer than two wins, but would need help from Victoria who is taking on Long Beach, a division rival. Friday’s contest is scheduled to start at 7:00 p.m. and will feature postgame fireworks. The action can be heard live on COOL 1450 AM or streaming online at www.tucsontoros.com.
A box score for tonight’s game can be found at:
http://www.pointstreak.com/baseball/boxscoretext.html?gameid=2080
Tucson Toros Playoff Clinch Scenarios
8/26/09 - Tucson, AZ – With the Tucson Toros making a strong push to make the playoffs in their inaugural GBL season, here is a breakdown of the various ways the club can clinch a spot in the postseason:
The GBL utilizes a split season, where the Southern Division winner of the first half, in this case the St. George Roadrunners, will take on the division winners of the second half. If the same team wins both halves, then the team with the next best overall record for the entire season will receive the second playoff spot. Winners are determined based on winning percentage, and not games back so as not to penalize teams playing differing amounts of games due to the Tijuana franchise being unable to participate in the 2009 season.
With the split season the Toros actually have two different chances to make the playoffs. They can either win the GBL Southern Division outright in the second half, or if St. George wins the second half (after already taking first half) Tucson would need to finish the season with the second best overall record in the division.
The Toros could clinch a playoff bid under either of these possibilities as early as Thursday. The scenario to win the Southern Division is relatively straight forward – if Tucson wins two more games (with six remaining) they will win the division and advance to the playoffs.
Should Tucson only win only more contest, or even lose out for the rest of the season, the team can still make the playoffs even without winning the division by finishing with the next best record. Tucson’s main competition in this scenario is the Long Beach Armada, who enter tonight’s play trailing Tucson in winning percentage .537 to .500. If Tucson gets just one more win this season, they would still make the playoffs if Long Beach loses three or more of their six remaining games. If Tucson goes winless for the rest of this season, they would still make the playoffs if Long Beach loses four or more of their six remaining games.
If one of these scenarios comes through and the Toros make the playoffs, they would take on St. George for a best of five game series beginning Wednesday, September 2nd either in Tucson or St. George. Particular home dates and times are yet to be determined. The winner of the Southern Divisional Series would advance to face the winner of the GBL Northern Divisional Series for another best of five series. Both Calgary and Edmonton have already clinched locked up playoff spots in the north.
The Toros will face St. George on the road two more times before returning home to host the Roadrunners for their final homestand of the regular season in a four game series beginning Friday, August 28th at 7:00 p.m. at Hi Corbett Field.
Toros Edged By Roadrunners 5-4 In St. George
8/26/09 - St. George, UT-The Tucson Toros quest to clinch a playoff spot was temporarily put on hold by a 5-4 loss to the St. George Roadrunners Wednesday. With the loss, the earliest Tucson could clinch a spot would be Friday and guarantees that if the Toros do clinch a spot in the postseason, they will be do it in front of their home town fans at Hi Corbett Field during this weekend’s series.
Tucson got out to an early 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning in Wednesday’s loss, when Junior Spivey drove in Skip Adams who led the game off with a double. St. George answered back with 1-run tallies in each of the first three frames against Tucson starter Jason Jacome, and led the remainder of the game.
Both Adams and Spivey had 2 hits, with Adams scoring half of the team’s runs. Rightfielder Andre Marshall blasted a solo home run in the sixth inning for his 9th of the year, just 2 off of the team lead.
The two teams will face each other once again Thursday to wrap up the series in St. George, before both heading to Tucson to finish the regular season with a pivotal four game series that will begin Friday night at Hi Corbett Field. Thursday’s road game is scheduled to start at 7:05 Tucson time. A linked feed of the St. George broadcast will be available at www.tucsontoros.com.
A box score for the game can be found at:
http://www.pointstreak.com/baseball/boxscoretext.html?gameid=2076
First Place Toros Move One Step Closer To Playoffs With 9-4 Win
8/25/09 - St. George, UT – The Tucson Toros moved once step closer to clinching a playoff spot in their inaugural GBL season by defeating the Roadrunners 9-4 in St. George Tuesday. The win extends the Toros lead for first place for the second half of the season and sets up a potential playoff clinch as soon as Thursday.
Towering Lefthander Vince Davis got the start for Tucson and pitched into the 8th inning for the second straight start. David stayed hot after an 8 inning quality start in Yuma last time out, this time limiting the Roadrunners to just 3 earned runs in 7 2/3 innings while striking out 7.
First Baseman Mayobanex Santana set his season high in hits by going 4-for-5 with a double, 2 runs and an RBI. Designated Hitter Dustin Yount had 2 hits and took over the team lead in home runs with his 11th blast of the season. Yount, who drove in 3 in the contest, now has gone deep 3 times in his last 7 games. Leftfielder Curt Miaso also had 3 RBI, while 4 other Toros had multi-hit nights at the plate.
With the win Tucson increases their divisional leading in winning percentage over the Roadrunners .655 to .528. The two squads will square off for the second game of seven head-to-head games Wednesday in St. George at 7:05 Tucson time. A linked feed of the St. George broadcast will be available at www.tucsontoros.com.
A box score for tonight’s game can be found at: http://www.pointstreak.com/baseball/boxscoretext.html?gameid=2072
Tucson Fall 11-5 In Series Finale
8/23/09 - TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros dropped a home game, 11-5, to the Orange County Flyers, Sunday night. With the loss the Toros’ record stands at 35-31 overall, 18-10 in the second half. Pete Hartmann, (2-2) got the start for the Toros, where he picked up the loss. The veteran lefty threw five innings where he gave up nine runs, eight earned, on eleven hits. Brian Daly and Dan Knox appeared out of the bullpen for the Toros. Each picked up two innings of work with Daly giving up two runs, on four hits, while Knox didn’t surrender any runs in his outing. The Toros were outhit 18-9 in the loss, but four Toros did manage multi-hit efforts. Curt Miaso and Jim Rushford led the way as they each went 2-4 and each drove in a pair of RBI. Andre Marshall put up some power numbers as he went 2-4, hit a double, a homerun, and scored a pair of runs. Dustin Yount also went 2-4, and he hit a double.
The first place Toros, will take tomorrow off then travel to St. George for their final roadtrip of the 2009 regular season. The Toros will face off against the Roadrunners for a three game series, then both teams will return to Tucson to close out the GBL’s regular season, at Hi Corbett Field.
TOROS BULLPEN COMES THROUGH WITH A WIN
8/22/09 - TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros won their fourth game in a row Saturday night as they knocked off the Orange County Flyer, 5-2. With the win the Toros improve to 35-30 overall, 18-9 in the second half. Jordan Muir got the start for the Toros where he went five innings deep. The rookie righty did not figure in the decision as he gave up two runs, on five hits, before giving way to the bullpen.
Toby Nordman was the first of three Toros to appear out of the pen. Nordman pitched two innings of near-perfect relief as he only surrendered one base hit, and earned the win, (1-1). Cibney Bello also chipped in with some quality relief as he threw a scoreless eighth.
Reid Price earned his tenth save of the season as he slammed the door shut with a three-up, three-down ninth inning. Offensively, the Toros scored five runs on six hits, and they showed some good discipline at the plate, earning seven walks.
Junior Spivey and Andre Marshall each picked up a pair of RBI in the game. Jim Rushford also picked up an RBI as he was hit by a pitch, with bases loaded, in the seventh. The final game of the three game set is scheduled to start 7:00 pm tomorrow, with Hi Corbett gates open at 6:00 pm.
Barcelo Goes The Distance For Toros
8/21/09 - TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros improved their season record to 34-30 with a convincing 9-2 win over the Orange County Flyers, Friday night. The win also improves the Toros’ second half record to 17-9; and they remain atop the South Division standings as they make a push for a playoff spot in the GBL post season.
Lorenzo Barcelo improved to 8-5 as he went the distance Friday night. Over the nine innings worked, the veteran righty gave up two runs, one earned, on six hits. Barcelo also fanned six Orange County batters in the win. Toros’ designated hitter, Dustin Yount, got the home team’s offence started when he hit a two-run blast in the bottom of the first. On the night Yount went 2-4, scored two runs and drove in two RBI. Junior Spivey also had a great night at the dish as he went 3-3, hit a double, scored three times and knocked in one RBI.
Skip Adams and Andre Marshall also had multi-hit performances as they each went 2-4. Game two of the three game set is scheduled to start at 7:00 pm tomorrow, at Hi Corbett field. Gates open at 6:00 pm.
Toros Cap Series In Yuma With Second Straight Win
8/20/09 - Yuma, AZ-The first place Tucson Toros completed their three game series in Yuma with their second straight win by defeating the Scorpions 5-4 in 10 innings in Thursday. The teams exchanged pair of two run innings in the game, taking a 4-4 tie into extras when First Baseman Mayobanex Santana hit a go ahead RBI single that scored Designated Hitter Dustin Yount giving the Toros a 1 run edge.
Lefthanded Closer Reid Price was perfect in the bottom of the 10th, not allowing a baserunner in a scoreless frame to preserve the 1-run lead a notch his 9th save of the season. Price has not recorded saves in each of the last two games. Santana’s 10th inning heroics were the culmination of a stellar night at the plate in which he went 3-for-4 with 2 RBI. Second Baseman Junior Spivey matched with 3 hits of his own and two runs scored to improve his batting average to .325 since joining the Toros.
Starter Jason Jacome held Yuma to 2 runs in 5 innings of work. Cibney Bello improved to 5-1 with the win in relief. With the victory Tucson extended their commanding lead on the GBL Southern Division, leading second place St. George in winning percentage .640 to .531 with 10 games remaining for each team.
The Toros will return home on Friday to host division rival Orange County for a pivotal 3 game set at Hi Corbett Field that is scheduled to start at 7:00 p.m. Friday night. The game will be able to be heard live on COOL 1450 AM or online at www.tucsontoros.com. A box score for tonight’s game can be found at: http://www.pointstreak.com/baseball/boxscoretext.html?gameid=2051
Davis Goes Eight Innings For First Place Toros In 6-3 Win
8/19/09 - Yuma, AZ-The Tucson Toros defeated the Yuma Scorpions 6-3 Wednesday to extend their lead for the first place in the GBL Southern Division. The Toros received a stellar outing by Starting Pitcher Vince Davis. The southpaw went 8 innings, allowing just 3 runs on 4 hits and 5 walks while striking out 3. Davis gave up just 1 run in his first 7 innings of work and improved to 3-2 on the season the win.
While Davis was shutting down the opposition, the Tucson offensive used a balanced attack to plate 6 runs in the first 6 innings of the game. A total of 9 different Toros had at least 1 hit and 8 different players either drove in a run or scored a run. Shortstop Ryan Priddy and Rightfielder Andre Marshall both had two hits in the contest.
Davis handed a 3 run lead over to closer Reid Price in the 9th inning. Price proceeded to lock down his 8th save of the season, recording a strikeout in a scoreless frame to lower his ERA to a miniscule 1.67.
With the win the Toros extended their lead for first place in the Southern Division over division rival St. George, .625 to .548. The Toros will look to expand that lead once again on Thursday in Yuma for the final game of the roadtrip that scheduled to start at 5:05 p.m. Tucson time.
First Place Toros Seal Series Victory In Chico With 19 Hits
8/16/09 - Chico, CA-The Tucson Toros defeated the Chico Outlaws 11-3 Sunday night with 17 singles and a pair of doubles to take two games from the three game series. Just one night after Toros Outfielder Curt Miaso’s four hit night, Catcher Luis Apodaca decided to go one step further with a perfect 5-for-5 performance, with three runs scored and three RBI.
Apodaca wasn’t alone with his multi-hit game as six Toros enjoyed more than one hit in the lopsided affair, including two hits from Skip Adams, Lino Garcia and Miaso, and three knocks from Dustin Young and Andre Marshall. Marshall scored three times and drove in two with both of the squad’s extra-base hit.
Starting Pitcher Lorenzo Barcelo earned his team leading 7th win with seven innings of 2-run ball. The righthander struck out five Outlaws in the game, giving him 85 on the season which is good for second in the GBL.
With their second consecutive win the Toros extended their lead for first place in the GBL Southern Division over division rival Orange County, .636 to .577. The Toros will have an off day Monday as they travel to Yuma where they will take on the Scorpions for a three game series beginning Tuesday at 7:05 p.m. Tucson time. A box score for tonight’s game can be found at: http://www.pointstreak.com/baseball/boxscoretext.html?gameid=2038
Bottom Of The Order Powers Tucson To 9-3 Win
8/15/09 - Chico, CA-The Tucson Toros bested the Chico Outlaws 9-3 on Saturday thanks to a strong start from lefty Jason Jacome and an offensive outburst from the bottom of the lineup. Tucson’s hitters in the eighth and ninth spot in the lineup combined for seven hits and six of the team’s nine runs scored.
Leftfielder Curt Miaso went 4-for-5 with three runs scored and Shortstop Ryan Priddy followed with three hits and three runs of his own. The rest of the infield also had multi-hit nights, with Junior Spivey, Skip Adams and Dustin Yount all contributing a pair of hits. Catcher Dylan Parzyk launched his third homer of the year.
The Toros were able to double their opposition in the hits column thanks to Jacome’s seven innings of 3-run ball and a pair of scoreless innings from Cibney Bello. Jacome improved to 5-2 on the season with the quality start.
With the win the Toros extended their lead for first place in the GBL Southern Division over division rival Orange County, .619 to .577. The Toros will look to expand that lead once again on Sunday in Chico for the final game of the three game series scheduled to start at 6:05 p.m. Tucson time. A linked feed of the Chico broadcast will be available at www.tucsontoros.com.
HARTMANN LEADS TOROS TO VICTORY
8/13/09 TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros closed out their three game series with the St. George Roadrunners with an impressive 11-4 win behind an outstanding pitching performance by veteran lefty, Pete Hartmann. Hartmann improved to 2-0 for the Toros as he threw seven innings in the quality start. On the night, the crafty lefty gave up two runs, on six hits, and he fanned four St. George batters. Jason Hanna and Brian Daly closed things out, with Hanna throwing the eighth and Daly throwing a flawless ninth.
Offensivley the Toros had a great night as they pounded out 14 hits, including homeruns by Dustin Yount and Jim Rushford. Rushford ended the night going 3-4, scored one run and drove in three, while Yount went 2-4, scored three runs and drove in a pair. Lino Garcia also hit the ball well as he went 3-4, and drove in one while Luis Apodaca and Junior Spivey chipped in with 2-4 performances. The Toros will now hit the road as they open up a three game series at Chico tomorrow, which will be followed by a three game set in Yuma that starts on Tuesday.
TOROS DROP SECOND IN A ROW TO ST. GEORGE
8/12/09 TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros played game two of their three game set with the St. George Roadrunners, Wednesday night. The home side found themselves down 6-0 after one inning of play and battled back to get within one run, but lost 8-6. Dan Knox, (3-1) got the start for the Toros but he didn’t make it out of the first inning as he gave up six runs on seven hits and was pegged with the loss. Jordan Muir came in to finish the first and threw 3 2/3 total innings, where he gave up one run, on seven hits, and he struck out five Roadrunners.
Toby Nordman also gave the Toros quality innings out of the pen as he went three innings deep, pitching innings five through seven. The rookie lefty gave up one run, on three hits, in relief. Cibney Bello and Reid Price also appeared for the Toros, with Bello throwing the eighth and Price finishing things off with the ninth. The Toros offense had some ground to make up early and they did a good job of chipping away at the Roadrunners early lead by scoring a pair of runs in both the first and second innings.
The home side also scored single runs in the fifth and sixth and eighth, but it wasn’t enough against the South Division rival. Dustin Yount had a good night at the plate as he went 2-5, with a pair of doubles. The Toros’ first baseman also scored one run and drove in one RBI. Dylan Parzyk got the start behind the dish and he also contributed at the plate as he went 2-3, reached on a base on balls, and scored two runs. Ryan Priddy was the Toros’ other offensive standout as he went 2-3, hit a double, scored one run and drove in a run with a sacrifice fly in the sixth.
The two teams will play the final game of the three game series tomorrow night, at Hi Corbett field. First pitch is set for 7:00 pm, with gates opening at 6:00 pm.
On Thursday, the two teams will close out the series where the Toros will host a night full of action at the ballpark as there will be pregame, in game and post game festivities for all in attendance.
Prior to the game Toro fans will get to take part in “Speed Dating” at Hi Corbett. Let the Toros play matchmaker and help you find that special someone! Sign up for the first ever Tucson Toros Speed Dating Event happening before the game. Guests can preregister at www.Tucsonfun.com and click on the Speed Dating tab. Upon registering speed daters will get a ticket to the game, a free drink, and the priceless opportunity to find love – all for just $15. There are a limited number of spots available so be sure to register early! "Meet Mr. or Mrs. Right at Hi Corbett Field."
As the final game of the series takes place on Thursday, the always popular Thirsty Thursday specials will be in effect. In the final Thirsty Thursday of the 2009 season, beer, iced tea, horchata, lemonade and soft drinks will all be $1.00, starting with the first pitch, for two hours.
To wrap up the busy night, there will be a free post game concert by Mikel Knight and the Outlaw Band.
Gates open at 6:00 pm each night with game action set to start at 7:00 pm.
TOROS DROP A CLOSE ONE TO ST. GEORGE
8/11/09 TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros opened up a three game series with the St. George Roadrunners with a 3-2 loss, Tuesday night at Hi Corbett field. With the loss the Toros’ record stands at 11-6, but still maintain their hold on first place in the South Division.
The Toros outhit the Roadrunners 10-9, but a couple of late runs for St. George proved to be the difference in the ballgame.
Lorenzo Barcelo got the start for the home side but he didn’t figure in the decision as Toby Nordman picked up the loss out of the pen. Barcelo went 6.1 innings deep where he gave up two runs on six hits and fanned five. Nordman, (0-1) got out of the seventh quickly as he got a double play on the first pitch he threw. The rookie lefty gave up two hits in the eighth which led to the winning run, and his first loss of the season.
Skip Adams and Luis Apodaca each had a good night at the dish where they both went 2-3. Apodaca also hit a double while Adams drove in one of the Toros RBI. Dustin Yount drove in the Toros other run as he hit a sacrifice fly in the first, and went 1-3 overall.
Game two of the three game set will take place tomorrow night at Hi Corbett field, with a 7:00 pm start. Gates open at 6:00 pm.
Wednesday’s game featured We Care Wednesday as community groups have the opportunity to fundraise with the Toros.
TOROS MOVE INTO FIRST PLACE
8/9/09 - TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros closed out their three game series with the Edmonton Capitals with a 12-5 win, and sweep, at Hi Corbett field, Sunday night. With the win the Toros’ move into first place in the South Division and their second half record improves to 11-5, 28-26 overall. Jason Jacome got the start for the Toros and he improved to 4-2 with the win. The veteran lefty threw six innings where he gave up four runs on ten hits. Brian Daly, Toby Nordman and Jason Hanna all made appearances out of the Toros’ pen, where they combined to throw the final three innings. As a bullpen they gave up one run, on two hits, and they struck out two Capitals.
Lino Garcia led the way for the home team at the plate as he went 4-5, scored three runs and drove in two RBI. Ryan Priddy also had a great day for the Toros’ offense as he reached base in all five plate appearances as he went 3-3, reached on a walk and a hit by pitch.
Mayobanex Santana and Andre Marshall had the Toros’ only extra base hits as Santana went 3-5 with a double and Marshall went 1-5 with a three-run homer in the sixth. The Toros will take Monday off then return to action on Tuesday night as they open a three game series with the St. George Roadrunners. Opening pitch at Hi Corbett field is set for 7:00 pm, with gates open at 6:00 pm.
On Tuesday, Aug. 11th the Toros will commence play in another three game series as they host the South Division’s first half winner, the St. George Roadrunners. Two For Tuesday specials will be in effect for the opening game of the series as fans will be able to enjoy buy-one get-one free tickets (general admission and upper reserved), hot dogs, soft drinks, margaritas and ice cold beer.
Wednesday’s game will feature We Care Wednesday as community groups have the opportunity to fundraise with the Toros.
To close out the series, the Toros will host the always popular Thirsty Thursday. In the final Thirsty Thursday of the 2009 season, beer, iced tea, horchata, lemonade and soft drinks will all be $1.00, starting with the first pitch, for two hours. In addition to the in game specials there will be a free post game concert by Mikel Knight and the Outlaw Band.
Gates open at 6:00 pm each night with game action set to start at 7:00 pm.
TOROS TAKE FIFTH STRAIGHT AT HOME
8/8/09 - TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros defeated the Edmonton Capitals 5-3, Saturday night, improving their second half record to 10-5, 27-26 overall. Vice Davis, (2-2) got the start for the Toros where he earned the win, giving up three runs on six hits. Davis also fanned three Capitals as he worked into the seventh inning, before giving way to Cibney Bello who finished the seventh and also worked the eighth.
Reid Price threw the ninth, earning his seventh save of the 2009 campaign, where he struck out two of the four batters faced.
Junior Spivey provided the power for the Toros as he went 3-4, scored two runs, drove in three RBI, including a two run bomb in the fifth inning. Skip Adams, Ryan Priddy and Mayabanex Santana also went for extra bases as Priddy and Santana hit doubles, while Adams went 1-4, with a triple, in the win. The two teams will play the final game of the three game series tomorrow night, at Hi Corbett field, with a 7:00 pm start, gates open at 6:00 pm.
HARTMANN SHINES IN TOROS DEBUT
8/7/09 - TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros, (9-5) opened up a three game series against the Edmonton Capitals, (15-11) with a 6-2 win, Friday night. Pete Hartmann, (1-0), who signed with the Toros earlier in the day, threw seven innings of shutout baseball in his Tucson debut. The veteran lefty also struck out four Edmonton batters and only allowed five total hits in the win. Jordan Muir and Reid Price combined to throw the final two innings of the game. Muir threw an almost flawless eighth as he only surrendered one hit while Price gave up two runs on three hits in the final inning of the ballgame. Skip Adams got the Toros’ offense started as he opened their half of the first inning with a solo bomb to left. Adams went 3-4 on the day where he also scored two runs and drove in one RBI. Luis Apodaca, Mayobanex Santana and Junior Spivey each chipped in with a pair of hits. Spivey also drove in a pair of RBI in his 2-4 performance. The two teams will hook up again tomorrow night, at Hi Corbett field, with a 7:00 pm start, gates open at 6:00 pm.
Toros Pitcher Tom Wilhelmsen Acquired By Brewers
8-5-09 Tucson, AZ – The Tucson Toros announced Thursday that the Milwaukee Brewers have acquired the contract of Righthanded Pitcher Tom Wilhelmsen. The hard throwing Tucson native struck out an impressive 13 batters over 11 2/3 innings for the Toros this season and notched two saves, including the franchise’s first ever save on Opening Night. Wilhelmsen will be returning to the Milwaukee organization who originally drafted him in the 7th round of the 2002 MLB Amatuer Draft out of Tucson High School. Tom is expected to report to the Brewers minor league complex in Phoenix before joining the Rookie Level Helena Brewers of the Pioneer League.
Wilhelmsen is the third Tucson Toro to be picked up by a Major League organization this season, joining fellow Righthanded Pitchers Andrew Romo, who signed with the San Francisco Giants organization, and Rene Garcia who is now in the Chicago White Sox farm system.
The Toros will return home to host a six game homestand beginning Friday, August 7th at 7:00 p.m. against the Edmonton Capitals and St. George Roadrunners.
Toros Series In Calgary Completely Rained Out
8-5-09 Calgary, CANADA – The Thursday doubleheader between the Tucson Toros and the Calgary Vipers has been postponed due to wet field conditions at Foothills Stadium in Calgary. The rainout marks the third consecutive day that inclement weather prevented play in Calgary, raining out the entire four game series. Make up dates for the postponed games are yet to be determined.
After three straight days of rain, the Toros will look forward to a return to the desert when they host a six game homestand beginning Friday, August 7th at 7:00 p.m. against the Edmonton Capitals and St. George Roadrunners.
Toros Postponed For The Second Straight Day In Calgary
8-4- 09 Calgary, CANADA – The Tucson Toros and Calgary Vipers were postponed for the second consecutive day Wednesday due to wet field conditions at Foothills Stadium in Calgary. The teams will attempt to get two games in of the original four game series in with a doubleheader on Thursday beginning at 6:05 p.m. (Tucson time), weather permitting. Make up dates for the two remaining games are yet to be determined. The Toros will return home to host a six game homestand beginning Friday, August 7th at 7:00 p.m. against the Edmonton Capitals and St. George Roadrunners.
Toros Postponed Tuesday In Calgary, Will Play Back-To-Back Doubleheaders
8-3-09 Calgary, CANADA – The Tucson Toros and Calgary Vipers were postponed Tuesday night due to rain and unplayable field conditions at Foothills Stadium in Calgary. To make up the game the two teams will now play doubleheaders both Wednesday and Thursday. Wednesday’s twin billing, which was already scheduled, will begin at 4:05 p.m. Tucson time. Thursday double dip, which will make up for Tuesday’s lost game, will start at 6:05 p.m. Tucson time. The Toros will return home to host a six game homestand beginning Friday, August 7th at 7:00 p.m. against the Edmonton Capitals and St. George Roadrunners.
Edmonton Series Ends In 8-6 Defeat
8/2/09 - Edmonton, Canada-The Tucson Toros committed three errors leading five unearned runs that proved to be decisive in their 8-6 defeat at the hands of the Edmonton Capitals. Catcher Dylan Parzyk made two errors and Second Baseman Skip Adams added one of his own and recently acquired righthander Jose Lima capitalized for the Capitals.
Tucson got to Lima for six runs but former big leaguer was able to survive seven innings, just long enough for Edmonton to break a 6-6 tie with a pair of runs in the bottom of the seventh inning. Tucson starter Toby Nordman gave up six runs (three earned) on seven hits and four walks, but left with a no decision. The Toros pen combined to throw four innings, allowing just two unearned runs. Lefty Chris Luera was perfect for 2 1/3 innings with two strikeouts. Righty Jordan Muir was flawless for one inning, recording one strikeout. Danny Greenwalt was saddled with a loss to fall to 1-1 after defense miscues led to two unearned runs to score in the bottom of the seventh.
Shortstop Ryan Priddy and First Baseman Dustin Yount both had strong games at the plate for Tucson. Priddy went 2-for-3 with a run, 3 RBI and his 12th double of the season. Yount scored a run and drove in two with two hits, including his 7th bomb. The Toros will have an off day Monday as the travel to Calgary where they will take on the Vipers for a three game series beginning Tuesday at 6:05 p.m. Tucson time.
Capitals Walk Off On Toros In 11th Inning
8/1/09 Edmonton, Canada-The Tucson Toros lost to the Edmonton Capitals 5-4 Saturday after the Capitals walked off in the bottom of the 11th inning. Tucson scored a pair of runs in each the first two innings but were held scoreless for the next nine frames, snapping their four game winning streak. Tucson Starting Pitcher Cibney Bello posted a quality start despite a bit of wildness to earn a no decision. The right allowed just three runs on five hits and six walks walk striking out five to remain undefeated on the season.
Tucson spread out the hits in the contest. Eight different Toros had a hit in the game. Designated Hitter Jim Rushford was the lone Toro with a multi-hit night, going 2-for-4 to raise his batting average to .362. Second Baseman Skip Adams set the table atop the order with a hit and two of the team’s runs scored. The Toros and Capitals will wrap up their three game series Sunday with a day game. First pitch is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Tucson time.
JACOME THROWS A GEM FOR TOROS
7/31/09 EDMONTON, CANADA – The Tucson Toros, (8-3) opened up a three game series in Edmonton with a 5-2 win over the Capitals, (11-9) Friday night. Jason Jacome got the start for the Toros and he threw a gem as he only allowed four hits over his seven innings pitched. The veteran lefty gave up one run, fanned three Edmonton batters and improved to 3-2 on the season. Danny Greenwalt and Ryan Price threw an inning each out of the pen, with Price picking up his sixth save of the season. Toros second baseman Skip Adams led the Aztec attack as he went 3-5 at the plate. Adams also scored two runs and hit a double. Jim Rushford and Junior Spivey each picked up a pair of base knocks in the game as Rushford went 2-4 and Spivey went 2-5. Each player also drove in a run in the Toros fourth consecutive win. The two teams will hook up again Saturday with a gametime of 6:00 pm Tucson time.
TOROS SWEEP LEAGUE LEADING VIPERS
7/30/09 TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros, (7-3) swept their way past the Calgary Vipers, (11-7) with a 7-6, walk off victory, Thursday night. Junior Spivey led the late game heroics as he opened up the bottom of the ninth with a single to left. Dustin Yount then reached on a fielder’s choice which was followed up a Lino Garcia single, that plated Spivey. Toros’ catcher, Dylan Parzyk, led the home side’s offense as he went a perfect 4-4 at the dish. Parzyk hit three singles, a double, scored two runs and drove in one RBI.
Jim Rushford and Junior Spivey were the other Toros with multi-hit efforts as they both went 2-4. Spivey also scored one run while Rushford drove in one RBI. Skip Adams showed some pop as he hit his team leading ninth homerun, which was a two run blast to left center, in the sixth inning. Dan Knox got the start for the Toros but he left the game in the fourth, with an apparent injury. Brian Daly, Jordan Muir and Reid Price combined to finish the game out of the pen, with Price, (4-1) picking up the win. The Toros will now hit the road for their next seven games as they open up a three game series in Edmonton tomorrow afternoon, which will be followed by a four game series at Calgary, starting on Tuesday, August 4th.
TOROS BLAST VIPERS
7/29/09 - TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros, (6-3) demolished the Calgary Vipers, (11-6) at Hi Corbett field Wednesday night as the home team belted out 22 total hits in a 14-4 win. Six Toros had multi-hit performances, with Skip Adams and Lino Garcia leading the way with four hits each. Adams, who opened up the game for the Toros with a leadoff homerun, ended the night a triple shy of the cycle as he went 4-6, scored two runs and hit in two RBI. Garcia went 4-5, with four singles, and he also scored a pair of runs and drove in a pair of RBI.
Andre Marshall, Ryan Priddy and Jim Rushford also had solid performances on the night as each had three hits in the ballgame. Marshall was the top RBI man in the game as he drove in four, including a two run blast in the first inning. Rushford was right behind Marshall as he drove in three RBI.
Lorenzo Barcelo, (6-5) got the start, and the win, for the Toros as he threw seven innings where he gave up three runs, on ten hits. The veteran righty also fanned four Calgary batters, adding to his league leading total of 75 K’s. The two teams will face off again on Thursday as they close out their three game series. The game is set to start at 7:00 pm, with Hi Corbett gates opening at 6:00 pm.
Toros Turn Calgary’s Power Off
7/28/09 Tucson, AZ-The Tucson Toros defeated the Calgary Vipers 3-2 on Tuesday at Hi Corbett Field. The victory improves the Toros record to (5-3) for the second half, and (22-24) overall for the season.
Tonight’s game was delayed 43 minutes due to a power surge that knocked out a couple of the light poles at the stadium. Toros Starting Pitcher Vince Davis picks up the win for his effort. It is the first victory of the season for Davis as he improves his record to (1-2). Davis threw 7 outstanding innings while surrendering only 1 ER off of 2 hits.
Closer Reid Price earned his 5th save of the season as he retired the Vipers in order during the top of the 9th. DH Jim Rushford turned in a solid offensive output, going 3-4 with 2 RBIs. LF Junior Spivey went 1-4 with a triple and also accounted for the other Toro RBI.
The Toros face off against the Vipers tomorrow night for game 2 of the 3 game set. Gametime is set for 7 pm at Hi Corbett Field. A link to the game box score can be found at http://www.pointstreak.com/baseball/boxscoretext.html?gameid=1975
Toros Pitcher Rene Garcia Signed By White Sox
Tucson, AZ – The Tucson Toros announced Saturday that the Chicago White Sox have purchased the contract of Righthanded Pitcher Rene Garcia. After signing with the club on June 19th, the 23-year old Tucson native excelled in his time with the Toros by striking out 16 batters in 14 1/3 innings with a 4.40 ERA. The hard throwing righty demonstrated his overpowering stuff in a dominant appearance against the Long Beach Armada in which his fanned seven in 3 2/3 innings, allowing the Toros to win 3-2 in 15 innings. Garcia is expected to report to the Bristol Sox of the Appalachian League.
Garcia’s ties to Tucson baseball run deep as he played at Sunnyside High School and Pima Community College. Earlier this year he played at Lubbock Christian College where he helped LCC win the NAIA National Championship. Garcia went 11-1, in Lubbock, and two of his wins were in the World Series where he went 2-0.
Originally drafted out of high school in 2004 by the Colorado Rockies, Garcia went to South Mountain Community College before later returning to Tucson and Pima Community College. He was drafted in each of the next two years by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2005 and 2006. “It has been a long, winding road, but I am excited about my chance to play for the White Sox,” said Garcia. “The Toros were a good team to start my pro career with and now I am on to the next opportunity.”
Toros Sign Former MLB All-Star Junior Spivey
7/24/09 Tucson, AZ – The Tucson Toros announced the signing of former Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star Junior Spivey on Friday. The 34 year old Second Baseman/Outfielder will immediately become the club’s most tenured player, bringing the experience of over 1,500 Major League at bats to the Toros lineup.
Arizona Diamondbacks fans are well familiar with Junior Spivey’s meteoric rise to stardom. The Chandler, AZ resident made his big league debut with Arizona in 2001, showing promise by belting five home runs in limited at bats. Junior followed that up with a monster 2002 campaign in which he was named to the National League All-Star squad. Spivey helped the Diamondbacks return to the postseason that year by hitting .301 with 103 runs scored, 16 home runs and 11 stolen bases at the team’s everyday second baseman, placing 14th in National MVP voting at the end of the season.
Junior has logged five Major League seasons in his career thus far, seeing time with the Diamondbacks, Milwaukee Brewers and Washington Nationals. With his first game played, Spivey will become the fourth Tucson Toro with Major League experience, joining Righthander Lorenzo Barcelo, Lefthander Jason Jacome and First Baseman Jim Rushford. He began the 2009 season playing for the Camden Riversharks of the Atlantic League.
Spivey is expected to be in uniform for tonight’s contest against the Victoria Seals and will be available for media interviews beginning at 5:00 p.m.
The Toros will begin their first homestand of the second half of the GBL season tonight when they host the Seals at Hi Corbett Field at 7:00 p.m.
Toros’ Roadtrip Ends in 9-5 Loss
7/23/09 Yuma, AZ-The Tucson Toros wrapped up their two week, ten game roadtrip with a 9-5 loss to the Yuma Scorpions.
The Scorpions jumped out to an early lead with two runs in the second inning and led the Toros from there one. Tucson starter Jason Jacome fell to 2-2 this season with a rough outing, striking out five but giving up seven runs in five innings.
The Toros outhit the Scorpions for the second straight night, but were inefficient converting runners into runs, leaving twelve on-base during the contest.
Third Baseman led all Toros with three hits and added a run and an RBI. Leftfielder Lino Garcia and Rightfielder Andre Marshall had two hit nights. Marshall belted his fourth homer of the season.
The Toros will return home to begin a three game series against the Victoria Seals Friday at 7:00 p.m. at Hi Corbett Field. The game can be heard live on COOL 1450 AM or on the Tucson Toros official website at www.tucsontoros.com.
Toros Victorious In Yuma, Winning 5-2 On Tuesday
7/21/09 - Yuma, AZ-The Tucson Toros took the first game of their three game road series against the Yuma Scorpions 5-2 on Tuesday.
Tucson starter Cibney Bello improved his record to a perfect 4-0 with another stellar outing. Bello pitched into the 8th inning with 7 2/3 innings, allowing only two unearned runs in the first inning. The Scorpions managed just seven baserunners against the righthander and were held scoreless for the final eight innings of the contest.
On the offensive side, the Toros had a balanced attack with each starting position player recording at least one hit. Five different Tucson players scored a run. Leftfielder Lino Garcia, First Baseman Dustin Yount and Rightfielder Curt Miaso all doubled in the contest, with Second Baseman contributing his third triple of the season. Garcia, Yount and Miaso joined Designated Hitter Jim Rushford with two hits on the night.
Reliever Toby Nordman retired the only batter that he faced to maintain his flawless 0.00 ERA while Brian Daly notched his second save in as many games. The Toros will face the Scorpions again Wednesday night at 7:05 p.m. for the second game of the three game series.
Running With The Bulls
The Tucson Toros and The Maverick “King Of Clubs” will host The Fiesta De Toro in celebration of the re-dedication of The Magic Carpet Bull as The Tucson Toro on Wednesday, July 22nd. The Maverick will be hosting the round up from 5pm to 7pm and will have free prizes, complimentary Toros Baseball game tickets, $1 Toro dogs and feature happy hour prices for all food and beverages. Tuffy The Toro and Toros pitchers will be on hand to sign autographs and entertain the crowd during the all ages event. The Maverick is located at 6622 E. Tanque Verde Road.
The re-dedication of the nine foot tall sculpted bull, which served as a Tucson icon at it’s former home at Magic Carpet miniature golf, is part of joint adventure between The Tucson Toros, The Maverick “King Of Clubs”, and O'Shaughnessy’s Steak House and Piano Bar.
The Tucson Toros as currently in the middle of a seven game road trip To Long Beach and Yuma, but will return home to host the Victoria Seals for a weekend series beginning Friday, July 24th at 7pm.
Toros Win 3-2 In Marathon 15 Inning Series Finale
Sunday 7/19/09 - Long Beach, CA – The Tucson Toros outlasted the Long Beach Armada Sunday, winning 3-2 in 15 innings. Tucson came back from an early deficit to score two runs in the fourth inning to tie the game 2-2. That score would stand for another eleven innings as the pitching staffs took over.
Tucson start Dan Knox threw seven innings of two run ball, while fanning seven batters in the process. Beyond Knox, Tucson relievers combined to throw eight scoreless innings. Righty Rene Garcia was absolutely nasty, striking out seven of his own in 3 2/3 scoreless frames. Reid Price threw three innings without allowing a run to earn his first win. Brian Daly successfully protected a 1-run lead in the bottom of the fifteenth for his first save. First Baseman Dustin Yount led the way offensively, posting three hits with a pair of doubles, an RBI and a run scored.
The Toros will have the day off Monday to travel to Yuma where they will take on the Scorpions for a three game series beginning Tuesday at 7:05 p.m. Tucson time.
Toros Wrap Up First Half With 6-3 Win
Friday, 7/17/09 - Long Beach, CA-The Tucson Toros defeated the Long Beach Armada by a score of 6-3 Friday in what was the team’s last game of the first half of the GBL’s split season. Tucson will start with a clean slate and high hopes heading into the second half after a strong finish, winning five of their last six.
Tucson starting pitcher Jason Jacome limited the Armada to two runs in five innings of work to earn his second win of the year and the Toros bullpen continued their recent dominance. Four relievers combined to allow just one hit in the final four innings of the game, tallying 7 strikeouts. Reid Price continued to shine in the closers role, striking out a batter in a perfect ninth inning for his fourth save.
Leadoff hitter Skip Adams had three hits, including a double, two runs scored and an RBI. First Baseman Dustin Yount also had three hits and had a run scored and RBI of his own. Leftfielder Curt Miaso doubled twice while Catcher Dylan Parzyk went deep for the second time this season.
The Toros and Armada will match up once again Saturday in the third game of the four game series. A linked feed of the Long Beach broadcast will be available at www.tucsontoros.com.
Toros Blanked By Armada
Thursday, 7/16/09 - Long Beach, CA – The Tucson Toros were shutout by the Long Beach Armada 2-0 in the team’s return to action after the GBL All-Star break. The Toros offense mustered just four hits off of Armada starter Jose Lima, whom the team beat just six days prior. Lima was at his best Thursday night though, allowing just five baserunners in 7 2/3 innings to earn his fourth victory of the season.
Toros starter Vince Davis was effective in his five innings of work, striking out five and allowing just one run. Centerfeilder Andre Marshall had the Toros only extra-base hit of the game with a double as part of his 1-for-4 game. With the dominant pitching the game was over after a brisk two hours and thirteen minutes. The Toros and Armada will square off again Saturday in the second game of the four game series.
Adams Goes Deep To Power 4-2 Tucson Win
Saturday, 7/11/09 - Long Beach, CA-Second Baseman Skip Adams provided all the offense the Tucson Toros would need in their 4-2 defeat of the Long Beach Armada. Adams broke a scoreless tie by belting a 3-run 3rd inning home run off of Long Beach starter Ben Fox. The long ball was Adams’ team leading 7th of the season. Adams and Fox will need to make amends in hurry, as the pair will be on the same team as representatives of the South Division in Tuesday’s GBL All-Star Game in St. George.
Tucson added to their lead the following inning when Catcher Luis Apodaca drove in Third Baseman to make the score 4-0. Starting Pitcher Dan Knox pitched brilliantly to improve to 3-0 this season. The righty allowed just a pair of runs in six innings of work while striking out four. Shortstop Ryan Priddy had another multihit game, going 2-for-4 to increase his season batting average to .408. The Toros and Armada will face each other once again Sunday in the final game of the three game series before the All-Star break.
Toros sends 5 to GBL All-Stars
The Golden Baseball League 2009 All-Star selections include five Tucson Toros who will participate in the prestigious contest held at Bruce Hurst Field in St. George, Utah on Tuesday, July 14th at 7:00 p.m. Toros honorees include Pitchers Lorenzo Barcelo and Dan Knox, Second Baseman Skip Adams, Leftfielder Lino Garcia and Designated Hitter Jim Rushford. Continue reading about the 2009 GBL All-Stars Game.
Toros Open Road Trip With 8-4 Win
Friday, 7/10/09 Long Beach, CA-The Tucson Toros began their 7-game roadtrip with an 8-4 victory over the Long Beach Armada Friday. Tucson extracted revenge on Armada starting pitcher Jose Lima, who beat the Toros during their last homestand, scoring 5 runs off of the righty this time to hand Lima his fifth loss of the season. Lorenzo Barcelo improved to 5-4 with six strong innings, allowing four with four strikeouts.
Shortstop Ryan Priddy raked out of the ninth spot in the lineup, going 3-for-3 with a pair of doubles, two runs scored and an RBI. Designated Hitter Jim Rushford continued swinging a hot stick on the road with two hits in five at bats and is not hitting .376 this season.
After allowing two runs in the bottom the sixth, Barcelo exited with the game tied 4-4, but the Toros scored in the top of the seventh and the bullpen threw three scoreless innings to secure the win. Relievers Toby Nordman, Rene Garcia and Reid Price combined to allow just two baserunners while striking out four.
The Toros and Armada will face each other again Saturday in the second game of the four game series.
Toros And Celebs Deliver Win For Charity
Thursday, 7/9/09 – The Tucson Toros and host of celebrities played a benefit softball game for local charity Tu Nidito. In the game the Toros won in walkoff fashion when Pitching Coach Ed Vosberg crushed a bases loaded popup single to the pitcher solidifying a dramatic 19-18 walkoff victory over the celebrity squad in front of 1,763 fans.
In their own right the celebrities definitely played the role of a softball team well, giving the Toros a run for the their money behind their skipper Peter Marshall, the former host of Hollywood Squares. Other celebrities starring in the game include Phil Donlon, Patrick Kilpatrick, Geoffrey Lewis, David Proval, Sandra Robinson, Jamison Jones, and Alicia Arden.
Local personalities on the team included John Humenik of the Arizona Daily Star, Scott Kilbury and Eric Villalobos of KOLD, Linda Garrett and Jake Knapp of KGUN, Ryan Recker of KVOA, Jennie and Blake of 92.9 The Mountain and Chita and Adrienne of 96.1 KLPX among others.
Tu Nidito is a local non-profit organization that provides individual, family and group support through emotional, educational, social and spiritual services to children and their families as they deal with serious illness and death. The Toros and Tu Nidito would like to thank all of the celebrities, players and most important all the fans who helped make game a fantastic event.
Bello and Bullpen Deal in 5-1 Victory
Monday, 7/6/09 The Tucson Toros defeated the Long Beach Armada 5-1 on Monday night at Hi Corbett Field. Toros SP Cibney Bello delivered a masterful performance going 7 innings and allowing 1 ER off of only 6 hits. The victory improves his record to a perfect (2-0) on the season.
Toros C Luis Apodaca returned to action after being involved in a scary collision in the series opening game on Saturday night. He went 1-3 with a double and then later scored a run off of a wild pitch. CF Andre Marshall and SS Ryan Priddy turned in multi-hit performances for the Toros with Priddy going 2-3 and Marshall going 2-4 with a triple and RBI.
Tucson has an exhibition celebrity softball game scheduled for Thursday, July 9, and will then face the Armada in Long Beach for a 3 game series before they break for the All-Star Game on July 14. The next home game for the Toros will be game one of a three game series against the Victoria Seals on July 24, gametime is scheduled for 7:00 pm.
Armada Sinks Toros
Sunday, 7/5/09 - The Tucson Toros were defeated by the Long Beach Armada 13-4 on Sunday night at Hi Corbett Field. Long Beach SP Jose Lima delivered a pitching gem in his first start against the Toros. Lima went 7 innings allowing only 6 hits while giving up only 2 ERs and striking out 9 Toros. Lima improved his record to (3-4) for the season. Long Beach experienced an offensive explosion coming courtesy 9 runs in the first 3 innings. Toros SP Vince Davis had a rough outing lasting only 2 innings while giving up 8 ERs off of 8 hits to ultimately earn the loss, and drop his record to (0-1). Armada LF Casey Garrison went 3-6 with 3 RBIs. C Andy Bouchie went 3-4 with 3 RBIs thanks to a blast over the scoreboard in LF off of the first pitch he saw from Toros reliever Toby Nordman. Toros 1B Jim Rushford had the best offensive night for the Toros going 3-4 at the plate. LF Lino Garcia added 2 RBIs to go along with his 1-3 offensive output. The Toros have now dropped two in a row to Long Beach but look to salvage a win in the final game of the three game series tomorrow night. Game time is 7:00 pm and the gates at Hi Corbett will open at 6.
Toros Set GBL Attendance Record, Defeated By Armada 10-8
Saturday, 7/4/09 Tucson, A - The Tucson Toros lost 10-8 to the Armada on Saturday, but a crowd of 9,038 fans set a new all-time Golden Baseball League attendance record previously held by Edmonton. The record crowd was treated to fireworks both during and after the game. Toros Catcher Luis Apodaca was runover by Long Beach DH J.J. Sherrill in the top of the 3rd when he attempted to score from second base. Apodaca was visibly shaken mand left the game with a sizeable gash on his head. The Toros were led offensively by CF Andre Marshall who went 5-5 with 3 RBIs, he was a double short of the cycle. Dustin Yount kept up his hot hitting of late going 3-4 with an RBI, all this coming the day after he homered twice in one game. Toros starter Jason Jacome turned in a solid performance going 6 innings allowing 3 ERs, but was ultimately given a no decision. Long Beach was led by SS Omar Bramasco who went 4-5 with 2 RBIs. Game time for tomorrow is scheduled for 7:00 pm. It is “Lima Time” in Tucson as the Toros will get their first look at former Big Leaguer Jose Lima, as he gets the start for the Armada. Fans will definitely be treated to an interesting performance as Lima is known for his wacky antics on the field.
Toros Swept In Calgary
Sunday, 6/28/09 Calgary, CAN-The Tucson Toros were edged by a score of 7-6 Sunday to complete a series sweep by the Calgary Vipers. The Toros came up just short after the Vipers broke a 5-5 8th inning tie with a pair of runs. Tucson score once in the 9th but left the potential tying run stranded at third base. Leftfielder was the offensive star for the Toros with four hits, two runs, two RBI, a double and his third home run of the season. Second Baseman Skip Adams (5) and Designated Hitter Jim Rushford (4) also went deep. Lefty Dan Knox started for Tucson, allowing five runs on ten hits in 5 1/3 innings pitched. Reid Price allowed the two decisive runs in the eigth inning to take his first loss of the season. The Toros will have an off day Monday before continuing their Canadian road trip in Victoria, British Columbia on Tuesday when they will take on the Seals at 7:05 Tucson time.
Toros Wrestle Surf Dawgs In Exhibition
Thurday, June 25, 2009 - Over five thousand fans witnessed a rare mixture of baseball and wresting Thursday, as the Tucson Toros took on a mystery squad of Surf Dawg players and wrestlers in a Lucha & Baseball Exhibition Game. The fun filled exhibition was full of wacky plays, on field shenanigans and even body slams. With mic’ed wrestlers as coaches, the Surf Dawgs tried gaining every advantage possible with lots of exchanges with the umpires and Toros coaching staff. Many rules were broken, including late in the game when a Surf Dawg got a base hit but decided to round the bases the wrong way, running to third and then stealing both second and first on subsequent pitches. The game came to a halt in the 6th inning when the players streamed off of the field when the Public Announcer made the last call for Thirsty Thursday, with a final score of 8-3 Surf Dawgs. The exhibition game was added to the schedule so that fans wouldn’t miss out on all the Thirsty Thursday fun after the Tijuana Potros, the team’s original opponent for the night, withdrew from the 2009 GBL season. Now that they’ve grappled with professional wrestlers, the Toros will depart on an 8-game Canadian roadtrip beginning Friday, June 25th when they take on the Calgary Vipers at 6:05 pm. local Tucson time. A linked feed of the Calgary broadcast will be available at www.tucsontoros.com. The Toros next homestand will begin on Independence Day with a 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular beginning at 7:00 pm.
Tucson Drops Game 3
Sun, June 21, 2009 - The Tucson Toros fell 3-2 to the Yuma Scorpions Sunday night at Hi Corbett Field. The loss drops Tucson’s record to (10-12) for the season. The game definitely had a flair for the dramatic side of baseball as there was a 20 minute delay as the umpire crew attempted to make a call. The dispute came in the bottom of the 5th following a Toros 2B Skip Adams fly ball to center. Originally the umpires ruled it a single and Toros 3B Bryan Bass was caught at home attempting to score. This call enraged the Scorpion players as they believed they had made a triple play by tagging Toros C Luis Apodaca. Yuma proceeded to pull their entire team off of the field in protest a total of 2 times through the entire process. Ultimately the play was ruled a double play with Adams flying out to center and Bass being caught at home. Despite the chaos Toros Starter Lorenzo Barcelo was able to pitch 8 strong innings while allowing 3 runs only 2 of which were earned, but he eventually took the loss which drops his record to (4-2). Toros SS Ryan Pridy turned in a solid game going 2-3 including a homerun in the bottom of the 3rd to even the score at 1. Next up for the Toros is the “Lucha & Baseball” night where the Toros will host the San Diego Surf Dawgs on Thursday the 26th, followed by a Canadian road trip starting with the Calgary Vipers on the 26th of June.
Tucson Strikes Back
Sat., 6/20/09 The Tucson Toros defeated the Yuma Scorpions Saturday night 2-1 at Hi Corbett Field. The victory improves the Toros record to (10-11) on the season. Toros Starter Dan Knox was absolutely electric as he earned the victory going 8 strong innings while surrendering 1 ER off of 4 hits. This decision improves Knox’s record to (2-0) for the season, and it was the longest outing for a Toros starting pitcher on the season. On a night that was dominated by pitching, CF Lyndon Poole provided an offensive spark for the Toros going 4-4 with 3 stolen bases and a run scored. This game was tied going into the bottom of the 8th before Toros RF Curt Miaso blasted the first ball that he saw from Yuma reliever Cristian Mendoza over the left field wall, breaking the stalemate. It was Miaso’s first home run of the season and it couldn’t have come at a more opportune time. Toros reliever Jordan Muir came in as relief for Knox and pitched a perfect 9th inning for his first save of the season. The crowd of 5,418 came out for Souvenir Saturday, and was treated to an outstanding pitching performance. The game ran at a fast pace as the game time was only 2 hours and 13 minutes, good enough for quickest of the season. The Toros celebrate Father’s day tomorrow with “Dollar Dog Sunday”, and will close out the 3 game series against the Scorpions hoping to improve their record to .500 on the season.
Scorpions Sting Toros
Friday, 6/19/09 - The Tucson Toros lost 9-4 to the Yuma Scorpions on Friday night at Hi Corbett Field. With the loss the Toros fall to (9-11) on the season. Starting Pitcher Rene Garcia (0-1) made his Tucson Toros debut Friday night receiving the loss after going 4 2/3 innings and giving up 6 hits that led to 7 Scorpion runs. Reliever Vince Davis also made his debut for the Toros going 2 innings while only allowing 2 hits. The Toros were led offensively by LF Andre Marshall who went 3-4 with a RBI in the bottom of the 6th, and SS Ryan Priddy who went 2-4 with a RBI and a run scored. Yuma starter Ronald Ramirez picked up the win after going 5 innings and allowing 3 runs off of 8 hits and 2 strikeouts. C Carlos Balcazar led the Scorpion charge going 2-3 with 3 RBIs. The Toros enjoyed the highest attended game of the season thus far with 7,683 fans showing up for Military night and Fireworks Friday. The fans were treated mto an impressive pregame spectacle as members of the US Air Force took off in an Apache helicopter from the grass in centerfield following the National Anthem. Tonight’s game was game 1 of a 3 game set against Yuma. Game time for Souvenir Saturday is scheduled for 7 PM at Hi Corbett Field, with gates opening at 6 PM.
Toros Blow Out Outlaws 13-6 In Chico
Wed., 6/17/09 - The Tucson Toros belted out 21 hits, six for extra bases, to power the team to a 13-6 road victory over the Chico Outlaws Wednesday. First Baseman Jim Rushford led the attack as he continued hit hot hitting of late, going 5-for-6 six RBI, two runs scored, a double and his third home run of the season. Rushford’s 5-hit night raised his batting average up to .434 this season in 76 at bats. He was one of 5 Toros with multi-hit nights, including 3-hit games from Leftfielder Lino Garcia, Centerfielder Lyndon Poole and Shortstop Ryan Priddy. Every Toro had a hit in the contest, including Third Baseman Luis Apodaca who entered late in the game and tripled in his only at bat. Jason Jacome went deep into the game to earn his first victory as a Toro by giving up 6 runs (5 earned) on 6 hits and a walk in 6 2/3 innings while striking out two. A bullpen combination of Chris Luera, Reid Price and Brian Daley combined to throw 2 1/3 scoreless innings to seal the victory. The Toros and Outlaws will meet for one more contest in Chico Thursday night at 7:05 (Tucson time) because Tucson returns home to host the division rival Yuma Scorpions for a three game series beginning Friday.
TOROS LOSE ROAD GAME IN CHICO
Tues., 6/16/09 - Chico, CA – The Tucson Toros lost a road game on Tuesday as they were defeated 5-2 by the Chico Outlaws, in game one of a three game series. Lorenzo Barcelo, (3-1) took the loss for the Toros as he pitched seven innings on the night. Barcelo gave up five runs, on 11 hits and he struck out five Outlaw batters. Chris Luera threw a scoreless final inning for the Toros as he fanned two of the three batters he faced. Shortstop, Ryan Priddy, was the offensive player of the game for the Toros as he went 2-4 at the plate. Priddy also scored one run and drove in two RBI as he hit his first homerun of the 2009 campaign. Luis Apodaca and Lyndon Poole each chipped in with a pair of hits as Apodaca went 2-4 and Poole 2-5. The two teams will play again tomorrow, at 7:05, in Chico before playing the final game of the series on Thursday.
TOROS DEFEAT ROADRUNNERS
Sat., 6/13/09 St. George, UT – The Tucson Toros defeated the St. George Roadrunners, 11-8, on Saturday as the two teams hooked up in game-two of a three game series in St. George. Matt McCune got the start for the Toros, where he went four innings deep, but didn’t figure in the decision as Jordan Muir earned the win out of the bullpen. Muir pitched the game’s final three innings where he gave up two runs, on one hit. Jason Hanna and Brian Daly also made appearances out of the Toros’ bullpen where they combined to pitch two solid innings, of one-run ball. Skip Adams continues to be the Toros’ offensive standout as he went 3-5 and increased his hitting streak to 15 games. Dustin Yount also had a good day at the plate as he went 3-6. Three Toros went deep in the game as Lino Garcia, Andre Marshall and Jim Rushford all hit homeruns. Garcia and Rushford also put up good RBI numbers in the win as Rushford plated three runs for the Toros and Garcia four. The two teams will take tomorrow off then play the final game of the series on Monday; then the Toros will hit the road for Chico as they will play a three game series against the Outlaws, starting Tuesday night.
Toros A Run Short In 9-8 Loss
Friday, 6/12/09 - The Tucson Toros fell 9-8 at the hands of the St. George Roadrunners in the team’s first road game of the season. Tucson got off to an early lead, plating a pair in the top of the first inning and four more in the second behind newcomer Cibney Bello, a righthanded starting pitcher who was added to the roster earlier in the day. St. George answered back with six unanswered runs to chase Bello after five innings. The bullpens battled to hold down two of the leagues best offenses. Tucson went ahead 8-7 in the top of the 8th, but allowed the tying and go ahead runs in the bottom of the frame to seal the defeat. Toros Second baseman Skip Adams was 2-for-4 hit his team leading 4th home run of the season and extended his hitting streak to 14 straight games. Leftfielder Lino Garcia went 2-for-4 as well, with his team leading 11th double of the season in just 53 at bats. Adams and Garcia were among six Tucson hitters with a multi-hit night, part of a 14 hit barrage. The Toros and Roadrunners will square off for game two of the three game series in St George tomorrow at 2:05 p.m. (Tucson time).
TOROS THIS WEEK - June 9-11
Tucson, AZ – The Tucson Toros, (5-5) will host the Chico Outlaws, (9-7) for a three game set, starting tonight at 7:00 pm. The three game series will precede the Toros’ first road trip of the 2009 campaign where they have stops in St. George, Utah and Chico, Cal., beginning Friday. The brief home stand will feature some of the Toros popular promotions, at Hi Corbett Field, including Two For Tuesday (2-1 tickets, Soft Drinks and Hot Dogs); We Care Wednesday; and Thirsty Thursday ($1 Beer, Soft Drinks, Lemonade, Horchata, Iced Tea). The Toros’ next home stand will take place June 19-21 when they will host the Yuma Scorpions. All games are scheduled to start at 7:00 pm.
TOROS CLOSE HOMESTAND WITH LOSS TO CHICO
Thursday, 6/11/09 – The Tucson Toros closed out their season opening 13 game homestand with an 8-4 loss to the Chico Outlaws, Thursday night at Hi Corbett Field. With the loss the Toros’ record stands at 6-7. Jason Jacome (0-1) got the start for the Toros but he didn’t figure in the decision as he went six innings deep. Jacome gave up two runs, one earned, on six hits, and he struck out three Chico batters. Mark Rosen (0-2) picked up the loss as he gave up two runs, on two hits, when he came in from the bullpen for the seventh. The Toros’ bullpen gave up a total of six runs, on seven hits as they worked three innings of relief. The bright spot for the Toros came by way of Skip Adams bat as he extended his season opening hitting streak to 13 games. Adams went 2-5, with a pair of singles in the loss. Jim Rushford and Dustin Yount also had two-hit performances as Rushford went 2-4 and Yount 2-5. The Toros will hit the road tomorrow as they travel to St. George, Utah to take on the 13-6 Roadrunners. The road trip will run for six total games, as the Toros will play three in St. George, then travel to Chico for a three-game set starting Monday. The Toros next home action will be on Friday, June 19 as they host cross-state rival, the Yuma Scorpions. Opening pitch, on Fireworks Friday, is scheduled for 7:00 pm.
TOROS DOWNED BY OUTLAWS
Tuesday, 6/9/09 – The Tucson Toros, opened up a three game series at home versus the Chico Outlaws, on Tuesday, with an 8-6 loss at Hi Corbett Field. All of the Toros offense came in the fourth inning as the home squad scored six runs, on five hits off of Chico starter Michael Martin, who earned the win and improved to 2-1. With the loss the Toros drop to 5-6 and Chico improves to 10-7. Dan Knox, (1-0) got the start on the hill but he didn’t figure in the decision. Knox threw five innings where he gave up six runs, on ten hits, and he also fanned four Outlaw batters. Chris Luera, (0-1) picked up the loss out of the pen. The Left handed pitcher threw three solid innings of relief where he gave up one run, on two hits, all while striking out five Chico batters. Mark Rosen closed things out for the Toros where he gave up one run, unearned, on one hit, and striking out two in the ninth. Lino Garcia and Mayo Santana each chipped in with a pair of hits as Garcia went 2-5, with a double and two runs driven in and Santana hitting 2-4 with one RBI. Andre Marshall also helped out offensively as he went 1-4, hit a triple and drove in two RBI. Game two, of three, is scheduled for 7:00 pm Wednesday night, as the two teams will hook up again at Hi Corbett Field.
TOROS SMASH OUTLAWS
Wednesday, 6/10/09 – The Tucson Toros dominated the Chico Outlaws, at home on Wednesday, with a 16-4 thrashing at Hi Corbett Field. Lorenzo Barcelo improved his season mark to 4-0 as he went seven innings deep to earn the win. Barcelo gave up three runs, on seven hits and he struck out seven Chico batters. Andrew Alvarado (0-1) took the loss for Chico as he failed to get out of the second inning. Tom Wilhelmsen and Jordan Muir combined to pitch the final two innings. Wilhelmsen gave up one run, on two hits, in the eighth, and Muir pitch a scoreless ninth, where he didn’t give up any hits and fanned one Outlaw batter. The Toros pounded out 24 hits in the win. Skip Adams led the way as he extended his hitting streak to 12 games with a 4-5 performance. Adams also scored four runs and drove in five RBI; three of his RBI came on an inside-the-park homerun in the sixth. Luis Apodaca and Jim Rushford each had four hits. Apodaca went 4-5 and scored three runs while Rushford went 4-6, with three RBI. The final game of the three-game set is scheduled for 7:00 pm, Thursday night, at Hi Corbett Field.
TOROS HOST EXHIBITION
Thurs, 6/4/09 - The Tucson Toros dropped an exhibition contest, 6-5, against International Performance Baseball Thursday night. The Toros used the extra game to get a closer look at some of their reserve talent and show off a few of their hidden gems. Jason Jacome got the start for the Toros where he threw two no-hit innings before giving way to Mark Goodman who threw two more innings of shutout baseball. Toros bullpen coach, Steve Kelley was next out of the pen and he threw two more quality innings of relief. In his debut with the Toros, Kelley gave up one run, on three hits, and he fanned three IPB batters. Mark Rosen picked up the loss as he gave up one run, on two hits in the top of the ninth. Rosen also struck out two IPB batters. Lyndon Poole led off the Toros half of the first inning with a first pitch solo bomb to straight away center. Poole ended the day 2-5 with one runs scored. Toros’ relief pitcher, Chris Luera, made his debut in right field. He went 1-4 at the plate with a leadoff triple in the fifth. With over twenty years of baseball service, Clubhouse Manager, and former Toros batboy, Chris “Snake” Rasnake made his professional debut in leftfield. Snake was unable to get a hit in his only at bat but he became an instant fan favorite of the 2141 in attendance. The Toros will take a few days off and host a three day Fantasy Camp at Hi Corbett Field that will run Friday through Sunday. Their next game action will be a three game home stand June 9-11 versus the Chico Outlaws. Game one is scheduled to start at 7:00 pm Tuesday.
Tucson Toros Sell Contract of RHP Andrew Romo to the San Francisco Giants
20 Year Old is Signed After One Game as a Toro
Wed., June 3, 2009 - San Ramon, CA. – The Golden Baseball League announced that the Tucson Toros have sold the contract of RHP Andrew Romo to the San Francisco Giants. The hard-throwing righty from Brawley, CA had an outstanding 3 inning appearance for Tucson in his first appearance of the 2009 season after coming over from the Yuma Scorpions and was immediately acquired by the Giants. Romo, 20, had an outstanding high school career, but went undrafted. He pitched in the instructional Arizona Winter League, under Dodger All-Star Mike Marshall, in February of this year and developed into one of the top pitchers. This is the same league that produced current San Francisco Giants big league reliever Sergio Romo (Andrew's brother) and Toronto Blue Jays starter Scott Richmond in 2007. Signed by the Yuma Scorpions out of the Arizona Winter League, Romo was set to start before being sent to the Tucson Toros. In Tucson, the Toros wasted no time in showcasing Romo and brought him into last night's game in relief. He pitching three innings as he struck out four and gave up only one run that was unearned. With the Giants scouting the game, they moved quickly and acquired the young pitcher at the end of the contest. Romo is the is the 9th Golden Baseball League player in 2009 to be acquired by a major league organization.
TOROS CLOSE HOMESTAND WITH A WIN
Tuesday, 6/3/09 – The Tucson Toros closed out their three game series against the Edmonton Capitals with a convincing 12-6 win, Wednesday night at Hi Corbett Field. Current GBL Pitcher of the Week, Lorenzo Barcelo, improved to 3-0 on the season as he dominated the Capitals through seven innings and bettered his league leading ERA to 0.47. Barcelo only gave up one run, unearned, on three hits and he fanned seven Edmonton batters. The Toros bullpen struggled a little as Jason Hanna gave up five runs, four earned, in the eighth inning before giving way to Tom Wilhelmsen who threw a near flawless ninth. Offensively, the Toros pounded out 16 total hits. Skip Adams led the way as he extended his hit streak to ten games, with a 4-5 night. Adams hit a pair of singles, a double and a triple, all while driving in three RBI. Dustin Yount also had a big night at the plate as he went 3-4, was a triple short of the cycle, scored three runs and drove in two. Jim Rushford also had a three hit night as he went 3-5, with a pair of doubles. Rushford also scored twice and drove in two RBI. The Toros next action will be tomorrow night as they host International Performance Baseball for an exhibition game at Hi Corbett Field. The full length exhibition contest is scheduled to start at 7:00 pm and the popular Thirsty Thursday promotion will be in effect.
TOROS DROP GAME TO EDMONTON
Tues. 6/2/09 The Tucson Toros, dropped game two, of a three game set against the Edmonton Capitals, 11-2, Tuesday night at Hi Corbett Field. The loss drops the Toros record to 4-5 as they go into the final game of the short home stand. Eric Schaler (0-1) got the start where he only lasted two innings, earning the loss. Schaler gave up six runs, five earned, on four hits. Paige Doumont (2-0) earned the win for the Capitals. Toros’ newcomer, Andrew Romo, gave the Toros three solid innings of relief as only gave up one run, unearned, on three hits. Romo also fanned four Caps batters. Skip Adams extended his season opening hitting streak to nine games as he hit a leadoff single for the Toros and went 1-4 on the night. Adams also drove in one of the Toros two RBI in the loss. Designated hitter Jim Rushford also had a solid night at the plate as he went 2-4, with a pair of singles. The final game of the three-game series will take place Wednesday at Hi Corbett Field with a scheduled start time of 7:00 pm.
TOROS ADD GAME AGAINST INTERNATIONAL PERFORMANCE BASEBALL
Monday, 6/1/09 – The Tucson Toros have added a bonus midseason exhibition game against “IPB”, International Performance Baseball, this Thursday, June 4th at 7:00 at Hi Corbett Field. The contest will not only give fans an additional chance to root on the Toros this summer, but also adds another Thirsty Thursday, featuring dollar beverages until two hours after the first pitch. Normal ticket pricing will apply. The Toros will faceoff against an IPB squad filled with top talent looking to raise their stock in the Major League Baseball Amateur Draft, scheduled to take place just five days later on June 9th. The game result and statistics will not apply to the GBL regular season, but will be yet another chance for the Toros to compete against a top caliber opponent. Season tickets for June 23rd game previously scheduled against Tijuana Potros will be valid for admission to the exhibition game against the IPB.
RHP Lorenzo Barcelo and OF Drew Miller Named GBL Players of the Week
Tucson Starting Pitcher Flawless and Calgary Slugger Prodigious
Monday, June 1, 2009: San Ramon, CA The Golden Baseball League announced today that Tucson Toros RHP Lorenzo Barcelos and Calgary Vipers OF Drew Miller have been named GBL Players of the Week for the first week of the season. The first week actually encompasses the first 10 days of the GBL since the teams opened on Thursday and Friday nights this season. Miller, 29, 6-1, 215, has started this season where he left off from a spectacular 2008 campaign that saw him named as a GBL All-Star and finish in the Top Ten in most hitting categories in the league. Undrafted out of Oklahoma Baptist after a fine collegiate career, Miller played three seasons in the Frontier League before becoming an original Viper when Calgary began play in 2005. He has been a starting outfielder for all four seasons and is a perennial fan favorite as he has improved at the plate each year. During the first week of the 2009 GBL season, he hit .450, led the league in Home Runs with 4 and Runs with 16, he was second in RBIs with 13, and also second in both hits with 18 and Slugging Average at .850. Miller was also outstanding in th field and instrumental in Calgary's 7-3 start to the season. Barcelo, 31, 6-4, 220 was signed as a 17 year old in the Dominican Republic by the San Francisco Giants. He rose through their farm system, was traded to the Chicago White Sox and spent three seasons in the major leagues with the pale hose. Starting twice in the first week of the season, he went 2-0 with a league-leading ERA of 0.71 as he pitched 12.2 innings while striking out 14 and walking none.
TOROS LOSE BATTLE FOR THE BORDER
Mon., 6/1/09 – The Tucson Toros dropped game one, of a three game set, against the Edmonton Capitals, 6-2, Monday night at Hi Corbett Field. The loss drops the Toros back to even on the season at 4-4 and the Caps move one game above .500 at 6-5. Tucson native Jason Jacome got his first start of the 2009 campaign where he picked up the loss. Jacome pitched through four innings where he gave up six runs, five earned, on six hits. In his debut with the Toros, the left handed pitcher also fanned six Capital batters. Fellow Tucsonan, Matt McCune, pitched 4 1/3 innings of scoreless relief before giving way to Mark Rosen who closed out the top of the ninth. McCune only surrendered two hits and fanned three Capitals, out of the pen. The Toros only managed five hits in the loss. Second baseman Skip Adams got one of the hits, extending his hitting streak to eight games as he went 1-4 at the dish. Curt Miaso was the only Toro with a multi-hit effort as he went 2-4, with a pair of singles. Game two of the three game series, at Hi Corbett Field, is scheduled for Tuesday at 7:00 pm.
Tucson Toros make a clean sweep in Tucson
Sun., 5/31/09 - The Tucson Toros defeated the Orange County Flyers 9-3 on Sunday night at Hi Corbett Field. This victory marks the first series sweep for the Toros in GBL history, and improves their record to (4-3) on the season. The Toros got another victory thanks to their impressive starting pitching. Danny Greenwalt went 7 innings allowing only 8 hits that led to one run, and gave Greenwalt his first victory of the season. Tucson broke the game open in the bottom of the 7th when five consecutive hits lead to four Toros runs. The offensive charged was lead by designated hitter Jim Rushford who went 2-4 with 2 RBIs and a run scored. Toros CF Andre Marshall left the game after 4 innings when he appeared to have injured his left elbow while trying to make a diving catch in the top of the 4th. He finished out the defensive side of the inning, but was later replaced by OF Lyndon Poole. The Edmonton Capitals are next up for Toros on Monday night. This will be game one of a three game series against the Capitals. The starters for both teams have yet to be announced. Game time is 7pm and the gates will open at 6 pm for “Family Mondays.”
Toros Win Second Straight
Sat., 5/30/09 - The Tucson Toros defeated the Orange County Flyers 3 to 1 on Saturday night at Hi Corbett Field. The victory is the second in a row for the Toros. Toros Starting Pitcher Dan Knox (1-0) was brilliant in his first start of the season. He threw 7 strong innings allowing only one run off of three hits. Knox struck out eight of the twenty-two batters that he faced, including retiring the last eleven. It is Knox’s first victory on the season. The Toros received a nice contribution from the bottom half of their lineup. 3B Mayo Santana and C Luis Apodaca went 1-4 with an RBI batting in the 7th and 8th hole, and SS Franklin Gonzalez went 2-3 with an RBI in the 9th hole. 2B Skip Adams extended his hitting streak to six games. He has now reached base safely in every single game of the season. Flyers C Frank LoNigro accounted for OC’s only run when homered to deep left field in the 3rd inning. The Toros move to 3-3 on the season, and the Flyers drop to 0-5. The Toros look to go for the series sweep and the first ever in GBL Toros history. The Toros will send Danny Greenwalt to the mound, and Matt Durkin will get the nod for Orange County. Game time is 7:00 pm, for Dollar Dog Sunday.
Toros Lose Heartbreaker
Sun., May 24, 2009: The Tucson Toros (1-3) lost their third straight decision Sunday night, dropping the decision 8-4 to the Chico Outlaws at Hi Corbett Field. The crowd of 4,173 for “Dollar Dog Sunday” saw a hard fought game, that unfortunately slipped away from the Toros in the latter innings. Toros starting pitcher Toby Nordman made his impressive professional debut. He threw 6 strong innings, scattering 8 hits and allowing 3 runs only 1 of which was earned, and earned the no decision. Chico DH Gabriel Riley provided the power for Chico, going 3 for 5 with 2 runs scored and an RBI. Chico LF Truan Mehl added a 3-RBI triple in the top of the ninth to break open the game. The Toros announced two roster moves before the game. Starting pitcher Blake Eager was released, and P Mark Rosen was added to the roster. Rosen (0-1) faced 5 batters in 1 inning allowing 1 ER via 1 hit. The Toros next game comes at home against the Orange County Flyers on Fireworks Friday, May 29th. This will be the opening game of a 3 game set.
Toros Lose High Scoring Affair
Sat., May 23, 2009: The Tucson Toros dropped their second game in a row, losing 10-8 to the Chico Outlaws at Hi Corbett Field. In what was the highest attended game of the season, the crowd of 5,106 on-hand for Souvenir Saturday, witnessed a high scoring affair that was not short on offense. Chico 2B Dan Luyben provided the spark for the Outlaw’s going 4 for 4 with 4 RBIs, including a 3-RBI double in the 4th inning off of Toros starter Danny Greenwalt. Chico LF Blake Gailen added 2 hits in 4 at bats including 3 RBIs. Toros 2B Skip Adams provided a major offensive output. His line for the evening includes 3 hits in 5 at bats, 3 runs, and 4 RBIs. The majority of his numbers coming courtesy of 2 HRs, The first one a leadoff, solo shot in the 5th inning, and the second one a 3-run blast coming in the 7th. Chico reliever Mikael Ryder (1-0) is the credited with the win after his 2 inning performance. Toros reliever Tom Wilhelmsen (0-1) is credited with the loss after he uncorked 3 wild pitches leading to 3 Outlaw runs. Outlaw reliever Ben Shockey is credited with the save, it is his second on the season. Tucson moves to 1-2 on the season, as Chico improves their record to 2-1. The Toros look to even the series against the Outlaws on Sunday night in the final game of the 4 game series.
Toros Dealt Tough Loss
Fri., May 22, 2009: In the second game of the Tucson Toro’s Inaugural Opening Weekend, the Chico Outlaws outlasted the Toros to take a 5-4 victory, at Hi Corbett Field Friday night. The crowd of 3,116 witnessed the Toros first loss in the Golden Baseball League, but not before the Toros could put up a strong comeback. The game started with a rough outing for Toros’ starting pitcher Blake Eager who struggled through 3 innings giving up 6 hits, 5 runs, and 4 strikeouts respectively. The bulk of the damage was done in the second inning when Chico third baseman Darrick Hale lead off the inning with a solo homerun, which was followed by Chico Leftfielder Blake Gailen’s triple. Gailen later scored on a Truan Mehl single. Michael Martin (1-0) got the victory for the Outlaws, going 6 strong innings and only allowing 3 runs. Martin had a no-hitter going through 5 1/3, until it was broken up by a Curt Miaso single. The Toros were led by Catcher Luis Apodaca who went 1-for-4 with a single and 2 RBI’s, including an RBI in the bottom of the ninth inning, that excited the crowd as the Toros tried to climb back from a 2 run deficit. Reliever Dan Knox provided strong relief for the Toros. Allowing no runs off of 2 hits including 8 strikeouts in 4 innings of work. Pitcher Danny Greenwalt will get the nod for the Toros in the third game of the four game set against the Chico Outlaws. First pitch for Souvenir Saturday will be 7:00 p.m at Hi Corbett Field.
Toros rebirth- first game of the 2009 season
Thurs., May 21, 2009: The Tucson Toros are back and they opened up the 2009 season with an 8-6 win over the Chico Outlaws, at Hi Corbett Field Thursday night. The crowd of 4883 strong, left with smiles on their faces as the hometown team gave them thrill after thrill. The nights festivities opened up with a welcome back by Toros owner Jay Zucker as he reintroduced the Toros to Tucson. The pregame festivities included a complete team introduction and a double-first-pitch as GBL Commissioner Kevin Outcalt and the Famous San Diego Chicken threw out the ceremonial first pitches. Lorenzo Barcelo, (1-0) got the start for the Toros where went 6 2/3 innings deep to earn the win. In his first start of the season, the veteran righty gave up one run, unearned, on six hits and he fanned five Outlaw hitters. The Toros used five pitchers in the game. Tucsonan,Tom Wilhelmsen, earned the save for the Toros as he pitched one inning, where he gave up two hits and struck out one batter. Offensively the Toros got off to a great start in 2009 as they scored eight runs on ten hits in their opening game. Lino Garcia led the hit parade as he went 3-4 with three doubles and three RBI. Skip Adams also had a multi hit effort as he went 2-3, hit a double, walked and scored a pair of runs.
Andre Marshall hit the first homerun of the new Toros era when he hit a two-run shot in the seventh. Marshall finished the day 1-4, with two runs scored and two RBI. The two teams will be back at Hi Corbett tomorrow for game two of the four-game set. First pitch on Fireworks Friday is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.
TOROS CLOSE OUT EXHIBITION SEASON WITH A WIN
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Tues., May 19: TUCSON, AZ – The Tucson Toros closed out their 2009 exhibition season with a convincing 10-3 win over the Arizona Diamondback Extended Spring team on Tuesday, May 19, 2009. Toros’ Manager Tim Johnson got another good look at his pitching staff as he threw 11 pitchers in the nine inning contest. All fared well as they shut the Diamondbacks down to three runs on five hits in the nine inning contest. The Toros also showed some pop at the plate as they scored 10 runs on 13 hits. Franklin Gonzales and Lyndon Poole provided the power for the Toros as Gonzales hit a homerun in the second inning and Poole hit a shot in the third. Poole reached base in each of his three plate appearances as he hit a double and reached on a hit by pitch. Jim Rushford also had a couple extra base knocks as he went 2-5, with a pair of doubles and he drove in three RBI. Dustin Yount also had a good day at the plate as he reached base five times when he went 2-3, was hit by a pitch, walked and reached on an error.
Toros open pre-season with a win
The Tucson Toros opened up their brief 2009 preseason schedule with 7-5 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks Extended Spring squad, on Saturday, May 16, 2009.
The Toros led the game 7-4 after nine innings of play but the two teams decided to give the Toros faithful a little bonus baseball, as each team wanted to get some pitchers a little extra work.
The Toros pounded out ten hits, in the extended, 11 inning game. Second baseman Skip Adams led the offensive attack as he went 3-4, hit a pair of singles, a double and drove in one RBI.
Juvy Ibarra also had a multi-hit effort as he went 2-5, hit a double and scored two runs, while Andre Marshall provided a little pop at the plate for the Toros as he hit a solo homerun to lead off the sixth.
The Toros sent nine pitchers to the hill and all threw well in their first test of the year. Danny Greenwalt was the only Toro to go more than one inning as he threw three total. During that stretch Greenwalt only surrendered one hit and he fanned six Diamondback batters.
The two teams will return to Hi Corbett Field on Tuesday, May 19 for a 7:00 pm rematch that is open to the public and free of charge. The exhibition game will be the Toros’ last tune up before they open their GBL season when they host the Chico Outlaws on Thursday, May 21.
Toros exhibition schedule, Fantasy Camp become a piece of Hi Corbett
A two-game baseball exhibition schedule, with games against the Arizona Diamondbacks has extended spring squad. The games are set for 1:00 p.m. Saturday, May 16th and 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 19th.
The games will be open to the public and free to all in attendance. The Toros will use the games as dry runs, as they prepare for the GBL Opening Day on Thursday, May 21 when they host the Chico Outlaws at 7:00 p.m.
Toros’ owners Jay and Melinda Zucker were joined by current Field Manager Tim Johnson and, former Toros Manager (1987-88), Diamondbacks extended team Manager Bob Didier, as they met the media to officially announce the pair of games.
The games should be a good test for both squads as the new Tucson Toros will get their first real look at their roster playing at game speed while Didier will also get a good look at his squad that will boast a roster of experienced minor league players that are all prospects in the Diamondbacks organization.
Following the interviews, Zucker had a surprise up his sleeve as he invited the media for a special ceremony, held on the Hi Corbett concourse. Backed by Mariachi Changuitos Feos, Zucker prepared a Tucson Toros Time Capsule that was lowered into the foundation of Hi Corbett.
“This is a great way for the Toros to become a permanent part of Hi Corbett Field,” said Zucker. “The purpose of this Time Capsule is for the Toros to be the foundation of Tucson’s professional baseball, for generations to come.”
The Toros also made a final announcement on Thursday, as they will be hosting a Fantasy Camp at Hi Corbett Field, June 5-7, 2009. Tucson Toros fans of past and present will be able to hit the field, practice and play like pros, in the three day fantasy camp. Current Toros players and coaches will be joined by former Toros players, and special guests, on the field as they give personal and group instruction during the practice and game action. Reservations can be made at 520-325-1010.
New local pro named to the Toros roster
The Toros still have a few details to shore up. One of those details was the signing of a local baseball player to have the chance to fulfill his dream of playing pro baseball.
That player was found last at the May 2nd Toros’ Open House, where 161 players were vying for a roster spot with Tucson’s new professional baseball team.
Tucsonan Matt McCune was offered a contract on Tuesday, as Toros brass visited him at his current employer. The surprise visitors showed up with contract, and jersey, in hand for the former Catalina Foothills high school pitcher.
The right-handed pitcher has been looking for his chance to shine as he has always played second fiddle to someone. The Toros will be the team to give him a chance, as this will be McCune’s first shot at professional baseball.
McCune went 5-0 in 2005, his senior season of Catalina Foothills, where he earned an All-State Honorable Mention award before going on to GateWay Community College in Phoenix. McCune then earned a scholarship at Kansas Wesleyan University, where he played and attended classes for one semester.
Matt will bring an upper 80’s arm, with a plus two-seam fastball, to the Toros pitching staff. As a pro pitcher, he could be a quality bullpen arm and even battle for a spot in the starting rotation.
McCune was reintroduced to Tucson on Wednesday as part of a press conference held at Hi Corbett field. The press conference took place on the mound where McCune will look to start his professional career, as a Tucson Toro.
Tucson Toros Open House & Try Out a Success
The Tucson Toros opened their doors to the public on Saturday, May 2, 2009 for an Open House that was deemed “a great success,” by owner, Jay Zucker.
In total 161 prospective players signed up and tried to earn a spot on the 2009 roster, 83 people signed up for employment with the club’s game day operations and a large gathering of fans showed up to get in on the action at Hi Corbett field.
The day started off with approximately 300 people lined up outside the gates as they were vying for positions at the ticket gate, job fair and open tryout sign in desks. The current rostered players were even swarmed at the autograph booth as fans tried to get their first piece of Tucson’s new professional baseball team.
The open tryout was the highlight of the day as players attempted to impress the Toros’ coaching staff. The group workout lasted for just over four hours and many in attendance stated that it was the biggest, and best organized, workout that they had ever seen.
Of the 161 in attendance, there were plenty of local players, and there was a large group that made the trip from great distances such as Mexico, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic and Canada.
The goal of finding that one local player will prove to be a difficult task as the talent level was very high amongst the local prospects. The Toros coaching staff has a long list of finalists. A decision on who the Toros will offer a roster spot will be made by mid-week as the Toros look to make an announcement on Wednesday, May 6, 2009.
Tucson Toros new players announced
The Tucson Toros revealed their first round of player signings during a press conference, on field, at Hi Corbett on April 16, 2009.
More than a dozen players comprising over half of the Toros 22-man roster were introduced at the event, including players with career Major League experience and top prospects in affiliated organizations.
This event provides local Tucson media members with their first chance to speak with the 2009 Tucson Toros.
The Toros will continue to add talented ballplayers to the team roster leading up to opening day, including one hometown spot reserved for a local Tucsonan who will be selected during a local tryout on May 2nd.
The Tucson Toros revealed their first player signings during a press conference at Hi-Corbett Field Thursday, putting faces and names to the much anticipated debut roster for the GBL club. The roster includes four players who have played at the Major League level and many other former prospects for affiliated organizations.
Of the 17 players introduced, nine are pitchers, including righthanders Lorenzo Barcelo, Blake Eager, Emiliano Fruto, Danny Greenwalt, Ronny Lopez, and Eric Schaler, as well as a trio of lefty hurlers Jason Jacome, Toby Nordman and Mark Rosen.
Infielders revealed included first basemen Jim Rushford and Dustin Yount, second baseman Skip Adams and shortstop Frank Gonzalez. The team has also signed two backstops in Luis Apodaca and Dylan Parzyk. Patrolling the outfield will be Curt Miaso and Armando Moran.
Jacome, Rushford, Fruto and Barcelo are the former big leaguers of the group, combining to play nearly 200 Major League games for the Mets, Royals, Indians, Brewers, White Sox and Mariners. The team also introduced Strength and Conditioning Coach Louie Henderson and First Base Coach Jim Balserak.
The signings filled 17 of the team’s 22 man roster. The Toros will continue to add talented ballplayers to the roster leading up to opening day, including one hometown spot reserved for a local Tucsonan who will be selected during a local tryout on May 2nd.
The 2009 Tucson Toros will take the field in late May as a part of the independent GBL. For more information on the Toros please contact (520) 325-1010.
The 2009 Tucson Toros take the field in late May as part of the independent Golden Baseball League.
Cricket Sponsorship Deal with Tucson Toros Keeps Ticket Prices Low
Cricket to Become the Official Wireless and Broadband Provider of the Toros for Fortieth Season
Cricket Communications, Inc, a leading provider of unlimited wireless services, will become the official wireless and broadband sponsor for the 2009 season of the Tucson Toros. Corporate sponsorships such as this help the organization maintain low ticket prices and provide an affordable entertainment option during the economic downturn.
The Cricket sponsorship will include interactive promotions, giveaways and special Cricket offers available on game days only, as well as outfield signage.
“We are excited to partner with the Tucson Toros. Our partnership is a great opportunity for us to give back to the community that has contributed to our growth,” said Randy McCutchan, district director for Cricket.
This year will mark the team’s inaugural season celebrating the Toro’s return to Tucson. The Toros’s fan base has grown in the past year since they became an expansion team in the independent Golden Baseball League. May 21 is the official opening day with a home game against the Chico (CA) Outlaws. Tucson is expected to host at least 44 home games.
Cricket has provided wireless services in Tucson since 2007 and now has 5 stores and 45 dealer locations. Cricket’ Southern Arizona service area includes Nogales, the I-19 corridor, up to Picacho Peak on the I-10. Cricket’s Premium Extended Coverage also includes Vail, Rita Ranch, Sahuarita, Three Points, Avra Valley, Picture Rocks and West of the Tucson Mountains. Cricket added unlimited mobile broadband service in Tucson, Marana and Nogales in November 2008.
About Cricket®
Cricket is the pioneer of simple and affordable unlimited wireless services with no long-term commitments or credit checks required serving more than four million customers in 32 states. For more information on Cricket, visit www.mycricket.com. Cricket is offered by Leap Wireless International, Inc., headquartered in San Diego, Calif. For more information on Leap, visit www.leapwireless.com.
Tucson – April 24 2009 –
Toros names Tim Johnson new "Skipper"
 The Tucson Toros named Tim Johnson as the teams new "Skipper," the Toros Field Manager for its inaugural 2009 baseball season.
As the Tucson Toros new Field Manager Tim Johnson, "TJ," rode into the press conference Dec. 16, on horseback.
The setting was before media, friends and "Tuffy the Toro" a live bull. The presentation included Toros Owner, Jay S. Zucker, awarding the official manager's Jersey to Johnson. Pima County Sheriff Clarence Dupnik, creator of the original Toros name, also participated by "passing of the bat" to the team's new "Skipper." Continue reading about Tim Johnson.
New coaching staff announced
The Tucson Toros has announced new additions to the 2009 Hitting and Pitching Coaches.
Pete LaCock and Ed Vosberg, were introduced by Toros Manager Tim Johnson. All three have signed on for the 2009 baseball season.
LaCock will work with the Toros offensive attack. Vosberg is in charge of the pitching staff. The pair of coaches, along with Johnson, bring 27 years of valuable Major League experience to an exciting Toros staff.
LaCock, a California native, played nine seasons in the Big Leagues. He spent the last four years coaching independent professional baseball, both in the U.S. and Canada.
Vosberg, a native Tucsonan, has longtime ties to Tucson with professional and amateur baseball. Vosberg is one of only two people to play in the Little League World Series, NCAA College World Series and the Major League Baseball World Series.
The Tucson Toros Professional Baseball Organization also released its 2009 regular season schedule. The team starts the 2009 campaign with a four game series against the Chico Outlaws. The first pitch on opening day is set for 7:00 p.m., May 21, 2009 at Hi Corbett Field.
Sidewinders slide out Toros charge in
 (Photo left) Former Tucson Sidewinders owners Melinda and Jay Zucker display their City of Tucson, AZ Proclamation for the return of the Tucson Toros.
The Phoenix may have taken away Tucson Spring Training, and Reno may have taken the Tucson Sidewinders, but the legendary Tucson Toros baseball team, in Tucson, Arizona, may rise like a phoenix and return again at Hi Corbett Field in the summer 2009.
Former Tucson Sidewinders owner Jay Zucker is bringing an expansion team of the Golden Baseball League to Tucson. The new teams name would be the Tucson Toros- the same team that played in Tucson at Hi Corbett Field from 1969 through 1997.
Zucker sold the Tucson Sidewinders baseball team in June 2007, but continued to play through the end of the 2008 season in September. The team moved to Reno, Nevada to play in a new stadium for the Spring 2009 season.
Since the Tucson Sidewinders were originally the Tucson Toros, Zucker still retains ownership of the Tucson Toros brand name. His intensions are to return Tucson to the glory days of baseball when the ballpark was filled with enthusiastic fans.
The new Tucson Toros are part of the "GBL" Golden Baseball League with nine teams throughout the Western United States and Southern Canada. Tucson is the third city in the league as former members of the Triple-A Pacific Coast League (PCL) to now be in the "GBL." The GBL is comprised of non-affiliated professional baseball franchises, defined by Baseball Officials as comparable to Double-A level. Read more about the GBL.
Contact the Toros:
Tucson Toros
Hi Corbett Field
Tucson, AZ 85716
(520) 325-1010
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FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR TO ORDER TICKETS,
CALL THE TUCSON TOROS INSIDE SALES OFFICE AT 325-1010.
All games start at 7:00p.m. at Hi Corbett Field.
Golden League Baseball presented by Safeway
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Tucson Toros Memorabilia & Collectibles- Autographed cards
Gary Cooper Autographed 1989 Pro Cards Card - Minor League Card - Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity from Autograph-Cards.com. 100% Authenticity Guaranteed. Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity from Autograph-Cards.com. Item ships inside a toploader to prevent damage during shipment. Weight: 8 ounces.
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Jose Tolentino Autographed 1990 CMC Card - Minor League Card - Comes with a Certficate of Authenticity from Autograph-Cards.com. 100% Authenticity Guaranteed. Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity from Autograph-Cards.com. Item ships inside a toploader to prevent damage during shipment. Weight: 8 ounces.
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Tony Eusebio Autographed 1993 Fleer Excel Card - Minor League Card - Comes with a Certficate of Authenticity from Autograph-Cards.com. 100% Authenticity Guaranteed. Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity from Autograph-Cards.com. Item ships inside a toploader to prevent damage during shipment. Weight: 8 ounces.
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Authentic salsa from El Charro Cafe in Tucson, AZ. Contains: crushed tomatoes (tomatoes, salt, citric acid), water, salsa (onions, salt, garlic, white vinegar, canola oil, chiltipin pepper, oregano), tomato puree (water, tomato paste, citric acid), citric acid.
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