Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

[12]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

Bulls get past Mud Hens, 2-1
Wiley picks up fourth win of the season

June 13, 2011 -- Toledo, Ohio

Brayden Wiley is getting his groove back.

The lefty picked up his fourth win of the season last in Toledo as the Durham Bulls beat the Mud Hens 2-1.

Wiley is now 4-4 on the season.

Wiley threw 7 innings, allowing 4 hits on 1 run. He struck out 9 and walked 3. He lowered his season ERA to 2.87.

"Once again, the kid had it working," said Bulls' catcher Alex Avila. "He's fun to catch. He makes it easy. When he's on his game, no one is better. I can usually tell after the first inning on how his night will go, and tonight I knew that the Mud Hens were in trouble.

Avila finished 1-3 at the plate with an RBI double.

Fernando Perez was 2-3 with 2 stolen bases.

[12]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

Bulls blast Indians 9-0
Wiley pitches complete game shutout

June 19, 2011 -- Indianapolis, Indiana

The Durham Bulls handed the Indianapolis Indians their worst loss of the season last night in Indianapolis by a score of 9-0. It was the Bulls' third win in four games.

Brayden Wiley was brilliant, picking up his fifth win of the season. The 20-year-old lefty threw his second complete game shutout of the season. He allowed six hits and struck out 12. He did not walk a batter.

In his last four starts, Wiley has lowered his ERA by a full run and now leads the International League with a 2.59 ERA.

"I've felt really good for the past month," said Wiley after the win. "I have to give a lot of credit to my catcher, Alex Avila. He seems to know what is working for me better than I do at times. It was a great day and I'm just glad we got the win. Hopefully, we can continue to play well and close the gap in our division."

Wiley definitely made a fan of Baseball America talent evaluator Eric Williamson.

"I was already a fan," said Williamson. "I've seen this kid pitch a few times now and he just continues to get better. He was already on our watch list but this performance tonight proves that he's probably one of the top ten prospects in all of baseball. Personally, I have him #1. He's that good. The Indians have the best lineup in the International League and Wiley made them look silly. If Tampa Bay is in a playoff race down the stretch, don't be surprised if they call this kid up."

Offensively, the Bulls were led by Fernando Martinez (2-5, RBI), Alex Avila (2-4, HR, 3 RBI), Edward Salcedo (2-4, HR, 2 RBI) and Carlos Corporan (2-3, 2 RBI).

The Bulls are currently 33-38 and trail the Norfolk Tides by five games in the IL South.

Durham begins an eight-game homestand tomorrow. They will open their four game series against the Scranton/WB Yankees. Game time is 1:05 and plenty of good seats are still available.

[12]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

Bulls lose to Clippers, 1-0
Wiley continues hot streak, gets loss

June 24, 2011 -- Durham, North Carolina

For the fifth straight start, Durham Bulls' pitcher Brayden Wiley was lights out.

Wiley allowed just 1 run in 7.1 innings last night, giving up 4 hits. He struck out 8 and walked 3 but took his fifth loss of the season.

"It's one of those games where the first start to blink first loses," said Wiley. "I gave up a run -- I blinked first."

Columbus Clippers' starter Jeurys Familia out dueled Wiley, pitching 8 innings and allowing 3 hits. He struck out 9 and walked 4.

When asked after the game if the lack of offense disappointed Wiley, the lefty was diplomatic.

"No, not at all," answered Wiley. "This is baseball. Sometimes, you don't get much run support, but you can't let it get you down. The other guy had great stuff tonight."

Wiley is now 5-5 on the season with a 2.49 ERA. In his 5 losses, the Bulls have managed to score a mere 9 runs.

Alex Avila was the only Bulls' player worth noting offensively, as the catcher went 2-3 with 2 singles.

[12]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

ESPN the Magazine mentions Wiley in "NEXT" issue
June 25, 2011
Tyler Jones' Baseball Blog

Some cool news to pass along about our local pitching star, Brayden Wiley.

ESPN the Magazine recently named Wiley as an honorable mention candidate in their "NEXT" issue, an annual list that outlines the top young players in each of the four main sports.

Wiley, 20, is 5-5 on the season for the Bulls and is sporting a league-best 2.49 ERA. He has 107 strikeouts in 101 innings pitched.

Wiley was also recently named the #8 overall prospect on Keith Law's Top 100 Prospects list.

[12]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

Rays trade Matt Garza
Tyler Matzek coming to Rays' organization

In a surprise move, the Tampa Bay Rays have traded starting pitcher Matt Garza to the Colorado Rockies in exchange for pitcher Tyler Matzek.

Garza, 28, is 6-3 on the season with a 3.99 ERA.

Matzek, 20, is currently pitching for the Rockies' Triple-A affiliate. The lefty is currently 8-2 with a 4.04 ERA.

This trade will give the Rays three young left handed pitching phenoms -- David Price, Brayden Wiley and Matzek.

GM Andrew Friedman said that making the deal was a no-brainer considering Matzek's upside and the potential issues with keeping Garza in Tampa Bay.

"I think going forward, this will give us one of the best young rotations in baseball," said Friedman. "Add Hellickson into the mix, and yeah, we're looking pretty good."

[12]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

Bulls beat up on Tides, 5-0
Wiley wins sixth game of the season

June 29, 2011 -- Durham, North Carolina

In a battle of South Division supremacy, the Durham Bulls beat the Norfolk Tides 5-0 last night behind another strong pitching performance by Brayden Wiley.

Wiley won his sixth game of the season and did it in dominating fashion. The lefty threw his third complete game shutout and allowed 4 runs. He struck out 7 and walked 2. His ERA dipped to 2.29 on the season.

At this point, Wiley has to be getting excited about the opportunity to pitch for the Rays this season.

"I'm really not thinking about that right now," said Wiley. "I am focused on getting better down here in Triple-A. I love my teammates. My Manager is good to me. If they need me, I'll be ready, but until I get that call, my focus will remain here."

One would think the Rays would be tempted to call up Wiley now. The lefty is now 6-5 on the season and his 2.29 ERA is mind blowing. The lefty has 114 strikeouts in 110 innings pitched.

[12]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

"You're done."

June 29, 2011

Brayden Wiley was feeling pretty good about himself.

He had just pitched another complete game shutout and helped his team to a win. They were now 40-41 on the season and were in a three-way tie for first place with the Norfolk Tides and Charlotte Knights.

He had done everything right this year. He felt that the call that he had been waiting for his whole life couldn't be far away.

Brayden was enjoying his night in his apartment, by relaxing and watching movies. He was deviating from the norm tonight. Usually, he liked to watch baseball movies, but tonight he felt like something different.

He was watching The Hangover when his cell phone rang. It was Trey Williams, his agent.

Williams was in town and wanted to stop by. He told Brayden that he had some business to discuss. Brayden told him to come on over.

He had no idea what Trey had on his mind.

When he arrived, Brayden was at the Mike Tyson scene in the movie. It was the best part of the whole movie.

"Come on in Trey," said Brayden.

"Man, you're living large here!" said his agent.

"I'm trying. I'm really not here a whole lot."

"Yeah. Look Brayden, I wanted to put you in touch with a great strength coach. His name is Lee Timmons. He has worked for a couple of Major League teams, and I think he'd work wonders for you. He has some good technology on his side."

"Technology? What do you mean?" asked Brayden.

"Man, you know... they are testing now. I am sure you've thought about all the things that can help you on the mound. Man, this organization is making you throw a lot of innings and it's gotta be tough as far as recovery goes."

"Trey, what the hell are you talking about?" asked a confused Wiley.

"PED's," replied Trey. "Man, don't look at me like that. All I am saying is that it's an option."

"Why would I take steroids or anything else," yelled Wiley. "I don't know if you've noticed, but in less than two minor league seasons, I am 17-9 with an ERA of about 2.20. Why on earth would you think I need an extra edge? How in the hell could you even bring this up? I thought as my agent, you had my best interests at heart!"

"Relax, I shouldn't have said anything, but I just want you to know about some options."

"Trey, get out. You're done. You are no longer my agent. I made a mistake in hiring you. What, do you just want to beef me up? Get me that next big contract and take home millions in commission? You're done."

"Wait Brayden, don't--"

"It's too late. Your true colors came out. Now seriously, get out of my apartment."

[12]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

"It's time..."

July 11, 2011

Andrew Friedman was not having a very good day.

The Rays had dropped five of the last six games and were now tied for the Wild Card lead. Sure, it was early, but every game counted now, especially when you play in a division that consists of the Yankees and Red Sox, not to mention and up and coming Toronto club.

He had watched each of Brayden Wiley's starts on his laptop. He didn't stream them live, but he was able to always take time out of his busy day to watch the game later.

The kid was sensational. He was 8-6 on the season for the Durham Bulls, with a 2.10 ERA. He lead the league with 121 strikeouts and he had again been selected to represent Team USA in the Futures Game. He was also selected to the All-Star team for the second consecutive year.

His 2010 season was not a fluke. He had dominating at each stop. Sure, he was only 20, but he truly felt that the kid was ready to get called up to Tampa Bay. He was a good kid and he had a level head on his shoulders. He never bad mouthed teammates to the media and from all reports, the coaches down in Durham had nothing but good things to say about him.

So really, it wasn't just the jaw dropping, video game stats that he was putting up - the kid, despite his young age, would be a good influence in the Tampa Bay clubhouse.

Tyler Matzek was another young lefty that Friedman had acquired. He sent Matt Garza, a very solid right handed pitcher to Colorado for him. Matzek was immediately called up and had struggled, going 1-2 with a 5.21 ERA in four starts for the Rays.

Friedman wasn't one to baby his prospects. He felt that if a kid was ready, they should be given a shot.

Wiley has nothing else to prove, thought Friedman.

He's not being challenged. We need a boost. We need another good starting pitcher.

Wiley would forever be Friedman's one move that defines a GM - if he panned out and was dominant, as he thought he would be, he would be considered a genius. He had no doubts at all about the kid. He was going to be a star.

Friedman had talked to Joe Maddon, the Rays' Manager. Maddon was absolutely opposed to bringing Wiley up.

"We don't need him yet, let him develop down in Durham," said Maddon.

"Let him develop?" asked Friedman. "Look at his numbers, Joe. He is 19-9 with a 2.12 ERA and has over 300 strikeouts in 245 minor league innings. His WHIP is off the charts and opponents have barely hit .200 against him. He's ready. He has nothing, absolutely nothing to prove in the minors anymore. I know he's young, but so was Jason Heyward - that's working out pretty well for Atlanta."

Maddon knew that Friedman's mind was made up. There was no sense in arguing.

"Bring him up then," said Maddon.

"I am going to. I am making the call today. He is going to start against Detroit on July 19."

It was really happening. Brayden Wiley was just hours away from finding out that his lifelong dream was about to come true - he was going to the Major Leagues. He just didn't know it yet, but he soon would.

[HARLEE23]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

Your in the bug leagues man!

[Curyy94]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

Can't wait for the next post!

[12]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

"Welcome to the Show."

July 12, 2011 -- Durham, North Carolina

Brayden Wiley was driving his truck, admiring the sites of Durham.

Tobacco Road, thought Wiley. Now I know why they call it that.

Wiley was hungry. He had just returned home earlier that day on a flight from Phoenix, Arizona. He had again been selected to play in the Futures Game. He would again get the start for Team USA, and while some guys might not think that it was a big deal, it was to him. It didn't get old this time around.

He had pitched two flawless innings. He had struck out three batters and that was the only stat line that he had. No hits, no runs, no walks. Perfection.

Team USA lost to Team World, 7-6, but he still had a great time.

He had gotten a call from Andrew Friedman, the Tampa Bay Rays' Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations. Friedman wanted to meet Wiley for dinner at the Tobacco Road Sports Cafe in Durham.

As Wiley drove, he reflected on the fact that it had been over two years since he had been drafted out of high school. It was the best day of his life. All the hard work, all the blood, sweat and tears had paid off. He was going to be given the opportunity to play baseball as a career.

He never doubted his ability. He knew that if he stayed focused, he would make the Major Leagues some day. In his nearly two minor league seasons, he had impressed just about everyone, including himself. He never got too involved in following his own success, but it was hard to ignore the fact that many had labeled him one of the best prospects in baseball. He always prayed that his head would never get too big. He still had a lot of work to do. He silently thanked his parents for raising him right.

His dad had once said, "Always stay grounded, son. Pray for God to always guide your life. Stay away from the bad things. Believe in yourself and the people around you."

He knew that he'd never lose those words. They were etched in every fiber of his being.

Friedman had finally walked into the cafe 30 minutes after he said he would, but that didn't bother him. He was just curious as to why Friedman would come all the way up here from Tampa Bay.

Had he been traded again?

"Brayden," said Friedman, extending his hand. "Great to see you. How are you doing?"

"I'm doing great, Mr. Friedman. Thanks."

"Call me Andrew, please," replied Friedman.

ESPN Classic was playing on one of the big screens, and Wiley caught himself watching an old game of the Mariners versus Angels in 1995. It was a replay of the one-game playoff to decide who won the AL West that year. Wiley knew who the imposing lefty was on the mound -- Randy Johnson.

"He was absolutely dominant," said Friedman, noticing the kid was watching the screen. "Best lefty of my generation."

"I agree," said Wiley.

"You could be better than him. You know, when he was your age, he was pitching at USC. He was a real late bloomer. He had some crazy control issues, but he learned to pitch. The rest is history."

"You really believe that I could be better?" asked Wiley, shocked.

"I wouldn't be here if I didn't," replied Friedman. "Hey, you want a beer?"

"I'm only 20," replied Wiley. He did want a beer.

Friedman smiled.

"I'll get you a beer."

The two talked baseball for the next hour. Friedman really did seem like a good guy, and it impressed Wiley that an executive would spend this kind of time with him.

"Andrew, what are you doing here? Are you in town to watch us after the break?"

"I thought you'd never ask," replied Friedman. "I'm not here to watch you play, Brayden. I'm here to tell you that you need to tell Durham goodbye. We've decided to bring you up to Tampa Bay. Congratulations!"

Brayden literally could not believe what he had just heard.

"Say what," replied Brayden.

"You heard me! Welcome to the Show. You have two days to pack up."

"I can't believe this!" yelled Brayden, in absolute joy. "I am going to the Big Leagues!"

Friedman smiled ear to ear, and laughed with Brayden as the two embraced.

"I've got to call my parents," said Brayden.

"Hold on," said Friedman. "First thing's first. You're getting a bit of a break. Your first start will be in Detroit on July 19. That's a week from today. You're going to fly to Detroit on Saturday. You'll pitch that following Tuesday. I've already mailed a plane ticket and tickets to the game to your parents. Don't worry, I haven't told them we're bringing you up. You get that honor, of course. But their tickets will arrive tomorrow."

"Andrew, thank you," said Brayden.

"You've earned--"

"No, thank you for everything. I'm not going to let you down. I can guarantee you that."

With that, Andrew took out a Rays' cap and handed it to Brayden.

"Jersey #22 is available and I know that's the number you wore in high school," said Friedman. "It will be ready for you."

The two sat in the cafe for the next hour and talked baseball. They ate a lot of food, and an underage Brayden Wiley had drank two beers. He didn't feel guilty about it.

He couldn't wait to call his parents, his sister, his friends. His dream had come true. He was going to be a Big League pitcher.

[darlon]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

Can Wiley live up to the expectations of the executive vice president of the Rays? Or will Joe Maddon be saying "I told you so."?

I am enjoying all the outside stuff. It's what keeps me coming back. I love how you've been able to humanize this pixelated character. It's not just like "Player A pitched against Team B and gave up X runs." So much deeper than that. He has personality and passion and emotions and principles.

Personally, I just skim through the game summaries because I consider the narratives to be your meat and potatoes. It gives it a "Playmakers" type feel, which is a show I loved watching.

[Curyy94]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

Great writing man!

[12]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

Can Wiley live up to the expectations of the executive vice president of the Rays? Or will Joe Maddon be saying "I told you so."?

I am enjoying all the outside stuff. It's what keeps me coming back. I love how you've been able to humanize this pixelated character. It's not just like "Player A pitched against Team B and gave up X runs." So much deeper than that. He has personality and passion and emotions and principles.

Personally, I just skim through the game summaries because I consider the narratives to be your meat and potatoes. It gives it a "Playmakers" type feel, which is a show I loved watching.

Thanks, I appreciate it.

The game summaries, at least in the minor leagues, were pretty skeletal. They will get more in-depth later on.

The "outside" writing will continue to get better as well.

Feedback like this is what keeps me going.

Thanks again.

[12]

Re: Road to the Show: Brayden Wiley, LHP

Great writing man!

Thanks!