The Kernels dipped to 33-37 after losing three out of four to Vancouver, Sacramento, and Valencia; and then splitting versus Kurt's Bears. With Long Beach tossing Class A level pitchers, it wasn't hard sweeping them; and the home series with Hawai'i stands 1-1. Since our last update, when the team was 25-25, the Kernels have lost 16 points in run differential and are now 306-305. The 306 is 16th in the Frick, as is a .241 batting average and .296 OBP. That's a surprise, given the offensive output of the last five seasons. The runs allowed is second, also a surprise.
The team continues to use openers for Steven Clayton, who is now 8-3 3.66 in 12 "follows." As I write that, and look at his projected innings pitched at 141.1, it might be better to let him start, as he usually averages in the area of 175 IP. But that's thirty innings taken away from relievers, many of whom are still developing, and they appreciate the innings.
Raúl Castanelda (2-4 3.91), after opening 14 games, was given two real starts, in the hope that he might toss another shut out versus the Surfers (he had one last year). He didn't, but he did grab a win in 7 innings, with Everard clinching the 6-3 victory. Castanelda lost a 4-3 game to Hawai'i. He allowed three home runs in those two starts (13.2 IP), which isn't bad for a one-rated, yes a 1, at HRA. He has also appeared in eight games in relief, finishing four. Headed for a 2.0 WAR.
Bob Butler, sidelined since April 12, is back on the active roster, two weeks ahead of schedule. He's tossed two innings so far this season. Last year he saved 16 after being acquired on June 18. Today's June 23, so we'll see how close he gets to that this season.