Buchholz vs. Buffalo 8/1

Nice start for Buchholz this time around. Wasn't held back in pitch count for this game and went 6.1 innings, 5 hits, 2 ER, 0 BB, 9 K. One of the earned runs was on a HR. I didn't get a chance to see the game so I only really have boxscore info, but the strikeouts are very nice to see as is the no walks allowed. On the season now (in AAA), he's pitched 18.1 IP, 16 hits, 30/6 K/BB, 3.93 ERA, 3 HRA. HR totals are a bit high, we'll have to see if those continue to hold true given the extremely small sample size. But he has a 5.0 K/BB and striking out over 14 batters/per 9 innings so he's missing a lot of bats. I think AAA is a good level for him, AA was way too easy for him, hitters in AAA are more polished and I think this will be a good learning experience. Given that Boston aquired Gagne and the rotation appears full at the moment, there doesn't appear to be an immediate need in the Boston pitching staff. No doubt Clay could get major league hitters out but AAA will provide a good place for him to make good pitches and continue to work on his fastball command, stay tuned.