News
Leake finishes whirlwind year strong
First-rounder ends season with 9 1/3 scoreless innings
By Robert Emrich / Special to MLB.com
11/19/09 7:02 PM EST
On Thursday, Mike Leake put an exclamation point on a year in which he led the nation in wins for Arizona State University, was a Golden Spikes finalist and was selected by Cincinnati in the first round of the Draft.Leake allowed two hits and struck out four over four shutout innings as the Peoria Saguaros defeated the Mesa Solar Sox, 8-1, in the final game of the Arizona Fall League regular season.
Leake ended up with 9 1/3 scoreless innings after finishing his junior season with the Sun Devils with a 16-1 record.
The highlights of the California native's year included his final college home start and performing in the Rising Stars Showcase. The right-hander struck out three batters and allowed one hit in an inning of relief in the AFL's version of an all-star game.
"Getting a standing ovation in my last start at Arizona State University was the most memorable moment of my year," Leake said. "I'll always remember that.
"It was a nice little experience with some of the top players and getting to know them and being able to play in that game," he added of the Rising Stars Showcase.
Lance Zawadzki (Padres) hit his second homer of the season and drove in three runs to lead the way for the Saguaros (14-18). The shortstop ended the season on a 14-game hitting streak.
"He's a strong player, he's always focused and never gives away at-bats," Leake said. "He can connect on some balls."
Reds prospect Yonder Alonso doubled and drove in a pair of runs and Brandon Hicks (Braves) contributed three hits, including a double.
Daniel Meszaros (Astros) struck out the side in his inning of relief for Peoria and Craig Kimbrel (Braves) fanned three batters while walking two in a scoreless frame.
Cubs prospect Josh Vitters doubled to extend his hitting streak to 12 games and Chris Singleton (Twins) doubled and scored once for the Solar Sox (13-18).
Marlins starter Andrew Miller was tagged with the loss, allowing one run on three hits while striking out three in four innings. Jeremy Haynes (Angels) allowed one hit and fanned two in 1 2/3 innings.
Robert Emrich is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
