NALB - April 2013

After a strong 7-1 start, Brooklyn played losing baseball the rest of the month. Losing 11 of the next 21 games, the Knights finished April in second place with a 17-12 record.

Ralph Kerfoot’s injury in spring training prompted the Knights to call up Rico Haros from AAA to fill his spot in the rotation. On April 12, José Arisa suffered a partially torn labrum and will miss about three months. Brooklyn turned to AAA starter Porfírio “Spooky” Portio to replace Arisa on the roster. Another injury for the Knights occurred on April 19 when Angel Santago made a diving catch in left field. Santago fractured his shoulder blade on the play. He is expected to return in about four weeks.

There were some other notable injuries around the league. Several shortstops were injured and are expected to miss around six weeks: Richmond’s Chick Veras, Phoenix’s Leslie Hubbard, and Luisville’s Daron McKilligan. Nashville’s 2B John Edwards was hit by a pitch and fractured his wrist; the injury should keep him out until mid June. Some big name outfielders were injured, including Stade’s Mark Huff and Dunedin’s Alan Gathers. A couple of starting pitchers suffered serious season ending injuries. Richmond’s Adney Buntain and Key West’s Ray Cruz both face elbow reconstruction surgery.

April 2013 awards:

League 1
Batter of the Month: Chris Lee (Nashville Firecats)
Pitcher of the Month: Noriaki Momotami (St. Rock Mudcats)
Rookie of the Month: Ramón Durán (Luisville Beasts)

League 2
Batter of the Month: Tony Rodarte (Richmond Slam)
Pitcher of the Month: Benny Alazardo (Richmond Slam)
Rookie of the Month: Júlio Rutiaga (Richmond Slam)