The Woo Sox came out of the gate firing on Thursday night, putting up a five-spot in the top of the first inning in a 7-4 victory. Franklin Arias, Tyler McDonough, and Nathan Hickey all contributed RBI singles in the rally. Arias added another RBI single in the sixth.
It’s hard to overstate just how impressive Arias’ season has been, as his average is now up to .341 at Triple-A in 35 games, with a .507 slugging and just a 15.2% strikeout rate. And, of course, the 23 home runs combined between Double-A and Triple-A, while playing terrific defense. There was a great Baseball America podcast that was posted yesterday, featuring James Anderson and Geoff Pontes of Baseball America discussing the ETAs of numerous prospects for 2027. They discussed how the labor situation affected why Arias was not called up in 2026 and their high level of confidence that he will make the Red Sox Opening Day roster in 2027. I recommend giving it a listen, with the Arias discussion around the 25-minute mark.
McDonough added a home run in the third inning, his 20th across all levels of the minor leagues this season.
Blake Wehunt threw six strong innings to tally the win over the Iron Pigs (PHI), allowing two runs and striking out four. Tyler Samaniego threw two more hitless innings, striking out three. His lack of a call-up in the second half of the season, despite being on the 40-man roster, is befuddling to me, with so many relievers being on the IL.
John Holobetz (2-4, 4.40) will get the ball for Worcester on Friday at 6:45.
The Sea Dogs put up a pair of six-run innings against the Rumble Ponies (NYM) on Thursday in what turned into a blowout win. Mason White was the standout, reaching base in all five of his plate appearances, including a home run, a double, three RBI, and two walks. The Sea Dogs also got home runs from Caden Rose, Ronald Rosario, and Ahbram Liendo, with Liendo’s tank being a grand slam in the fourth inning.
With Devin Futrell only pitching into the fourth inning, Tyler Davis was credited with the win by throwing 2 ⅓ shutout innings, with three strikeouts.
Portland has yet to name a starter for Friday’s game at 6:00, and after being eliminated from playoff contention on Wednesday night, their season will come to a close this Sunday.
