Ortiz Finally Pitches Well, but Loses

Ramon Ortiz, the top pitching prospect in the Angel organization, has struggled since being sent down to Edmonton. But he pitched well in a 4-2 loss to Omaha last Monday. Ortiz (2-3) took the loss, but he struck out eight and walked only one in seven innings. He gave up four runs--three earned--and eight hits.

Ortiz was selected to play in the All-Star Futures Game for the second consecutive season. The game, July 9 in Atlanta during All-Star week, will feature the top U.S. and international minor league prospects.

Shawn Wooten, who has been Ortiz’s catcher in Edmonton, is the Trappers’ hottest hitter. Wooten had 11 extra-base hits in a 14-game stretch, including a double, triple and home run in a 5-4 victory Tuesday night over Omaha.

Lake Elsinore’s Gary Johnson was selected the Angels’ top minor league outfielder for May. Erie’s Steve Green was named top pitcher, and Erie infielder Jason Huisman was the top defensive player.

The Boise Hawks, defending champions of the Class-A Northwest League, opened the season in style Tuesday. The Hawks defeated the Portland Rockies, 18-3, behind center fielder Marcus Knight’s two home runs and four RBIs. Designated hitter Jeffrey Wagner and catcher Tony Socarras also homered. Right-hander Aaron Franke struck out six in five innings for the victory.