Stone Crabs Shutout Threshers 4-0

Fans were treated to an excellent pitching performance courtesy of the Charlotte Stone Crabs' Kyle Lobstein Thursday night.

The 21-year old from Arizona kept the Threshers off balance for seven innings with his different velocities. Lobstein, a tall lefthander, gave up an opening double to Jiwan James before settling in. He walked three and struck out eight.

Lobstein is not on any top prospect list for the Tampa Bay Rays, but that could change with a couple more outings like Thursday.

His counter part Julio Rodriguez, of the Threshers, pitched well himself. Charlotte scored twice on three hits in the second and then Rodriguez gave up a solo home-run to Michael Sheridan in the fourth. 

Rodriguez (5-2), who doesn't get the same recognition as his fellow starters, is having a strong season. He was drafted in the eighth round in 2008. After starting his professional career slowly, he steadily improved and is considered the 17th top prospect in Phillie organization. The 20-year old from Puerto Rico is not overpowering but has good movement.

Chase Utley, hit the ball hard tonight but two walks were the only times he reached base.

Threshers (25-16) and in much need of some run production will play the Stone Crabs (15-26) again Friday with first pitch set for 6:30 p.m.