PITCHER OF THE WEEK – VINCENT VELASQUEZ, RHP, LANCASTER
Right-hander Vincent Velasquez has had some tough breaks with injuries in his early career, but in two healthy starts for the Blaze he has shown how dominant he can be. The 2nd round pick (2010) had two starts and a four-inning relief appearance where he totaled 13 innings, allowing just three hits and three walks while striking out 16. Baseball America ranks Velasquez as the Astros’ #6 prospect.
PLAYER OF THE WEEK – MARQUEZ SMITH, 1B, BAKERSFIELD
Marquez Smith has bounced around the minor leagues since being drafted in the eighth round in 2007 by the Cubs. After spending time with the Red Sox and Rangers organizations, Smith is playing 1B for the Blaze and he’s off to a torrid start. In 10 games to start the season, Smith batted .444/.500/.917 with 3 HR and 9 RBI.
Photos: MiLB.com
