San Francisco Giants Prospect Makes Splash in Arizona League

Rafael Rodriguez, the Dominican outfielder signed last July by San Francisco for a franchise-record $2.55 million, played in his first Arizona League game on Sunday. Rodriguez recorded only one hit in six plate appearances, an RBI single in his first at-bat, but showed his skill in other areas. In the bottom of the first inning, he prevented a one-out, runner-at-third situation for his pitcher by recording an outfield assist. Then, after reaching on a fielder's choice in the 10th, Rodriguez recorded his first career stolen base. The 6'5" prospect, who will turn seventeen in July and is the youngest player on the AZL Giants' roster, also made some mistakes. He was caught stealing after his only hit, and was thrown out at home trying to score the go-ahead run from second on a single in the 10th inning. But after all, it was only a rookie league game. Second-baseman Julio Izturis, a 2006 signee from Venezuela, also made his U.S. debut for the Giants, collecting four hits (including a double) and ... (link)