Fresno Fridays

With Aubrey Huff on the DL for anxiety issues, space is being made for some of San Francisco’s younger faces—one of whom will take the mound against the San Diego Padres tonight. Here’s the latest from the Giants’ farm system:

Fresno Grizzlies

"@heathhembree There is no doubt I would win the Hunger Games"

Current record: 16-5

Strongest showing: Fortunately, this was a tough category to pin down, with the Grizzlies’ 41 runs in 5 games this week. Brian Burres pitched a 12-0 shutout against the Tacoma Rainiers last Saturday, tossing 7 scoreless frames, striking out 5, and issuing only one walk and one hit.

Next in line: With Huff out until Friday, shortstop Joaquin Arias was called up from Fresno on Wednesday, going 2-for-4 in two appearances and one start this week.

If Twitter reports can be believed, RHP Eric Hacker will get his first start in San Francisco in a few hours. He has 4 starts under his belt so far this season, with 20 hits, 6 earned runs, 6 walks, and 16 strikeouts in 24.2 IP. To make room for Hacker, Dan Otero has been optioned to Fresno.

Richmond Flying Squirrels

"@JMoE220 Felt like we’ve been on the road for a month!! Can’t wait to play at the nest!!!! @gosquirrels"

Current record: 9-11

Toughest comeback: Last night, pinch-hitter and second baseman Ryan Cavan rallied for the Squirrels in the 9th, with a well-timed home run off the Reading Phillies’ closer Chris Kissock. With a 2-1 finish, not only was this the toughest comeback of the week, but the only comeback. After pummeling the Altoona Curve 15-7 last Friday, Richmond weathered a 2-4 record over the past six games.

This week’s MVP: RHP Chris Heston is third in the Eastern League for ERA (1.13) and WHIP (0.88). He made his last start on April 25 against Reading, lasting 7 innings for 6 hits, a run, and 7 strikeouts. Unfortunately, the offense forgot to show up that night, and the Squirrels fell 1-0 to RHP Trevor May and the Phillies’ bullpen.

San Jose Giants

"@schume2 tip my cap to the offense tonight for picking me up. time to start the next streak. #sjgiants"

Current record: 14-8

Keys to success: Although their record is floating above a .600 winning percentage, San Jose has taken 5 losses and only 2 wins in the past 7 games. Yesterday, they split a doubleheader against the High Desert Mavericks, when LHP Jack Snodgrass pitched a 3-0 shutout, only to receive a 6-0 shutout from High Desert’s LHP Anthony Fernandez in Game #2.

Rehab recap: Freddy Sanchez made three appearances this week for the SJ Giants, going 4-for-10 with a handful of base hits and 3 RBI. He has not made a start at second base yet, remaining in the DH slot for as many games as necessary during his 18-day rehab assignment. He sat out during Game #2 of yesterday’s doubleheader with recurring shoulder tightness.

For more information on the Giants’ minor league affiliates, check out MiLB.com and FanSided’s own Seedlings to Stars.