Patience Pays Off for Villalobos

Carlos Villalobos has been the hottest JetHawk since the all-star break. The third baseman entered play Friday night with 13 hits in 28 at-bats since the break.

During that time he has raised his average from .267 to .291.

“He’s taking quite a few more pitches,” said Manager Dave Brundage. “Any time you see more pitches it’s going to make you a better hitter.”

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Chris Beck, who is eligible to come off the disabled list, threw lightly in the bullpen on Friday. Beck is out with bicep tendinitis, and not expected to be back until next week. . . . Reliever Tom Szimanski, who has a shoulder injury, said he will be ready to pitch Monday.

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Second baseman Chris Dean, who has a strained hamstring, was placed on the seven-day disabled list, retroactive to Wednesday. Dean has not been replaced on the roster because there are no available infielders in the organization. Brundage said Dean was placed on the disabled list because he is still 10 days away from playing and his roster spot might be needed between now and then. . . . Catcher Scot Sealy did not travel with the team to Adelanto because he has a viral infection. Brundage expects him back for tonight’s game.

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Tonight’s Game:

JetHawks (Greg Wooten, 1-0, 3.00) at High Desert (Francisco Saneaux, 1-1, 4.99), 7:05.