Sampson named Texas League Pitcher of the Week

MILWAUKEE -- Padres Minor League pitching prospect Keyvius Sampson continues to enjoy a strong month, and Monday he was named the Texas League Pitcher of the Week.

Sampson allowed one hit and two walks and tied his career high with 12 strikeouts over seven shutout innings against Midland on July 20 for Double-A San Antonio.

Sampson, a 22-year-old right-hander, is 7-1 with a 2.27 ERA since May 16. Overall, Sampson is 7-4 and has a 2.67 ERA in 16 games (15 starts) with San Antonio. He has 94 strikeouts over 84 1/3 innings with the Missions.

Part of Sampson's success can be attributed to his improved slider, which has become a very good pitch for him this season. He was named the Padres' Minor League Pitcher of the Month for June after going 3-1 with a 2.20 ERA in six games.

Sampson was selected by the Padres in the fourth round of the 2009 First-Year Player Draft.