Former Siena College starter John Lannan was surprised before the season began, when he was sent down to Class-AAA Syracuse.

He sent out a letter to the media requesting a trade and then went out and pitched poorly. Lannan gave up 13 runs (nine earned) in his first two starts, only going six innings.

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Since then, he has pitched much better and in his last two starts, Lannan has earned victories, bringing his season record back to even, 2-2.

In his last outing, on April 30, Lannan pitched seven innings, allowing just four hits and one earned run in a victory over Charlotte.

The only problem for Lannan is that the Washington Nationals' pitching staff is performing as one of the best in the big leagues.

If Lannan keeps pitching like he has in the past, he will get called back up or he will be dealt to another club.

Former Tri-City Valley Cats outfielder, J.D. Martinez, has continued to impress for the Houston Astros. Coming into

Tuesday's play, Martinez ranked fourth in the National league in RBI, with 19. At this point, you'd have to say he's established himself as one of the good young players in the majors. Incredibly, he played with the ValleyCats just three seasons ago.

While Martinez has thrived, Schenectady native Casper Wells has struggled in platoon duty for Seattle. Wells is hitting .261, but has played in just 11 games and has just 23 at-bats.

Saratoga Catholic graduate Tim Stauffer in back on the field, rehabbing for Class-A Lake Elsinore. Stauffer pitched 3 2/3 innings and gave up two runs, on April 29, but took the loss.

Troy native Joe Mahoney is hitting .232 for Class-AAA Norfolk, with two home runs.

Former Christian Brothers Academy pitcher Greg Holle is pitching for Class-A Brevard County Manatees, in the Florida State League. Holle has pitched 12 2/3 innings and struck out nine. The former South Troy Dodgers star has an ERA of 2.84 and a record of 0-1.

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