Triple-A Grizzlies crowned PCL champs
Another big day at the plate by Tony Kemp and a strong start from Astros top pitching prospect Mark Appel led the Fresno Grizzlies to the Pacific Coast League championship with a 7-3 victory over Round Rock in the decisive Game 5 of the series on Sunday.
The Astros' Triple-A affiliate was in command throughout and used a three-run seventh inning to extend its lead over the Rangers' PCL club.
Tony Kemp, Houston's No. 11 prospect on the team's Top 30 list, was 3-for-4 with two RBIs, while Alex Presley and Robbie Grossman added two hits each. The Astros' No. 30 prospect, Tyler White, corked his third long ball of the playoffs and led all PCL hitters with 10 RBIs in the postseason.
Kemp was named Most Valuable Player of the PCL playoffs after going 15-for-37 (.405) with three doubles, nine RBIs and seven runs scored in nine games. He also stole two bases.
Appel earned the win, striking out 10 while allowing three runs on six hits and two walks in 5 2/3 innings.
The Grizzlies move on to meet the International League champion Columbus Clippers (Indians) in the Triple-A National Championship on Tuesday in El Paso, Texas.