MESORACO WATCH

June 17, 2011

Devin Mesoraco

Punxsutawney's Devin Mesoraco struggled Friday night against the Toledo Mud Hens. Mesoraco, who plays for the Class AAA minor league team, the Louisville Bats, has become known as one of the heavy hitters in the International League.

Mesoraco, the 2007 first-round draft pick by the Cincinnati Reds, had a tough night Friday as he went 0-for-3 from the plate, but he was struck out just once.

During the bottom of the ninth, with the score tied at one, Mesoraco was intentionally walked by relief pitcher Matt Hoffman, negating that chance at bat.

Louisville won 2-1 in extra innings, despite the struggles from Mesoraco.
Although Mescoraco had a difficult night, Mesoraco is still hitting an impressive .333. He continues to rank fifth on his team in terms of batting average.

Mesoraco also continues to lead the International League in OBS averages, with a .955 on the season. His slugging average is now at .551, while his on-base percentage stays at .403.

The catcher started out roughly this week, as he went 1-for-4 from the plate during Sunday's game against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. He was able to single just once.

Mesoraco had more successful games against the IronPigs the following two evenings.

Monday, Mesoraco hit 2-for-5. He scored a run, increasing his total to 31 on the season. He was only struck out once.

Tuesday, he was 1-for-4 with one strikeout. His heavy hitting allowed two batters to cross home plate, improving his RBI total to 41. Mesoraco is second on his team in RBI totals, just one behind first baseman Daniel Dorn.

Thursday began the Bats' series against the Mud Hens. Mesoraco kept a steady batting average, going 1-for-4 from the plate. He had another strikeout on the evening but also recorded a double.

With Friday night's win, Louisville has improved its record to 39-30.
Mesoraco will celebrate his 23rd birthday Sunday and continues to be the No. 3 prospect in the Reds' system, according to Baseball America.