Batts earns FSL award
DAYTONA BEACH – The Florida State League selected Fort Myers Miracle left-hander Mat Batts the Pitcher of the Week for July 6-12.
Batts, 24, made one start during the week and delivered seven scoreless innings in a no decision. Batts scattered five hits with two walks and struck out 10 to match an individual-high for a Miracle pitcher in a single game this season.
Added to the Miracle roster on May 21, Batts is a 17th round draft pick of the Minnesota Twins from the 2014 MLB First-Year Player Draft. Currently leading the staff in earned-run average at 1.71, Batts has a 3-2 record in eight starts. Over 47 1/3 innings, Batts has surrendered just nine earned runs with only eight walks while striking out 44. The Florida State League is hitting .211 against him.
Starting the season in Cedar Rapids, Batts went 3-2 with a 2.21 ERA with the Kernels. In 40 2/3 innings in the Midwest League, Batts fanned 44 and walked 11.
Batts’ next start is scheduled for July 17 against the Brevard County Manatees in Viera, Fla.
The Miracle (50-38, 12-6) currently are tied for first place in the FSL South Division standings and complete a four-game series with the Clearwater Threshers tonight at Hammond Stadium.