Pipeline Preview: Lively throwing in Duel of the Day

Here’s a look at top prospects to watch in Wednesday in Minor League action:

Hitter to watch: Francisco Mejia (Indians’ No. 8), Lynchburg vs. Wilmington (6:30 p.m. ET)

It’s hard not to expect a hit when Mejia comes to the plate these days. The Indians’ prospect will look to extend his hitting streak to 40 games in Wednesday night’s contest. The catcher extended his streak to 39 with a single in the second inning of Tuesday’s game. He has collected a hit in every game he’s played since May 25 and has multiple hits in 17 of the 39 games.

Pitcher to watch: Phil Bickford (Giants’ No. 2), San Jose vs. Bakersfield (3:30 p.m. ET)

The No. 99 overall prospect is adjusting well to life at a new level. Bickford, 21, was promoted to San Jose on June 17 and has posted a 2.77 ERA in five starts since then. Command was an issue in his last start, but overall Bickford has issued 23 walks in 86 innings, while striking out 101.

Duel of the Day: Austin Voth (Nationals’ No. 9) vs Ben Lively (Phillies’ No. 29), Syracuse vs. Lehigh Valley (11:35 a.m. ET on MiLB.TV)

Voth gave up a season-high six earned runs in his last start so it will be interesting to see how the right-hander responds. Aside from that rough outing, Voth has been consistent and effective for the Chiefs. Voth has thrown at least six innings in 12 of his 19 starts and held opponents to two earned runs or fewer on 11 separate occasions.

Lively, like Voth, is also trying to get back on track. However, Lively’s struggles have been a bit more pronounced. …

continue reading in source mlb.mlb.com