JETHAWKS REPORT : Slump a Matter of Hit and Miss

While the JetHawks’ pitching and defense improved during the recent six-game road trip, the team’s hitting continues to slump.

The JetHawks, who batted .302 for the first 23 games of the season, have hit .238 since. The problem is not their swings, but their eyes.

“They’ve got the same hand actions and body actions, but the difference is the pitches they are swinging at,” hitting coach Delwyn Young said. “They are taking pitches they should be swinging at and swinging at pitches they should be taking.

“Everyone is putting pressure on themselves. You want to succeed and you start chasing. That’s natural.”

*

Catcher Scot Sealy’s left thumb, which he dislocated on May 11, is still sore. He is able to hit with his thumb taped. He is scheduled to see the doctor today, after which he will have a better idea when he might be able to catch again.

First baseman Shawn Buhner, who has not played since last Wednesday because of an ingrown toenail, was able to put on cleats Tuesday and said he could play if needed. . . . Outfielder Jose Cruz Jr., who has gradually come back from a pulled groin injury, said he is close to 100%. Cruz had been skipping some games and was the designated hitter in others since he came back on May 12.

*

Tonight’s Game: San Jose (Chad Hartvingson, 2-2, 3.72) at JetHawks (Marino Santana, 2-4, 4.94), 7:15.