All-Star Week Durham — Day #2
Day #1 is in the books and it was a great night in Durham. The Triple-A Home Run Derby event went very well. From a very amusing softball home run derby (those guys launched softballs that are still yet to come down), to Olate Dogs performing on field, to a competitive Triple-A Home Run Derby, to thrilling fireworks, and more — day #1 at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park was fun for all.
Allan Dykstra — a Wake Forest University product — won the Triple-A All-Star Home Run Derby. Currently in the New York Mets organization and playing for Triple-A Las Vegas, Dykstra made it to the finals against Francisco Pena, of Omaha. Pena did not hit a home run in the finals — meaning Dykstra needed just one to win. He got that home run and won the Triple-A Home Run Derby and the championship belt.
With the first day complete, it’s now on to day #2 for me!
Today at the ballpark, all of the Triple-A All-Stars will be on hand to take batting practice and sign autographs for fans. I’m looking forward to watching some BP and talking to Knights catcher Josh Phegley, who is here for his third All-Star nod. After playing in the 2012 All-Star Game in Buffalo, Phegley was selected for the 2013 game in Reno, but was promoted to Chicago and did not get to go to the game. Now, he’s back and once again earning an All-Star nod. And… rightly so!
This season, the Terre Haute, IN native is hitting .264 with with 45 runs scored, 75 hits, 21 doubles, three triples, 13 home runs, and 40 RBIs over 73 games for the Knights this season. His 13 home runs and 45 runs scored are first among International League catchers this season. While his offensive numbers are superb, it’s his defensive numbers that also stand out among all catchers.
Behind the plate this year, Phegley is leading nearly every category among IL catchers. And, why not? He is a 2012 MiLB Rawlings Gold Glove Award winner!
Phegley is first in the following defensive categories: games caught (72), total chances (664), putouts (597), and assists (61). Phegley also leads the IL in throwing out attempted basestealers. He’s thrown out 32 of 69 basestealers, which is good for 46%. The next closest catcher is James McCann of Toledo, who has thrown out 40%.
As the day goes on, look for some photos, interviews, and more from today’s media session.
