alumni news

The name still stands out in the Boston Red Sox lineup — and not just because the surname is 14 letters long. Jarrod Saltalamacchia, the former Mississippi Braves standout, will open the season as the starting catcher for a loaded Red Sox club that features established stars at every other position. But “Salty” looked like he belonged in the spring, posting a .405 average with a homer and 10 RBIs. He’s a switch-hitter, a valuable skill, and he appears to have conquered the defensive problems that plagued him in the minors with Texas last summer. It’ll be interesting to see how this plays out. … Meanwhile, another M-Braves alumnus who had a much-needed strong spring is Charlie Morton. The right-hander, who endured a dismal 2010 with Pittsburgh (2-12, 7.57 ERA in 17 starts), was 2-0 with a 2.63 ERA this spring. He’ll be back in the Pirates’ rotation this season; he’s got much better stuff than what his 2010 numbers would indicate. … Alas, ex-M-Brave Wes Timmons didn’t make Oakland’s opening day roster, but he made enough of an impression that he might get a call-up if a need arises. Meanwhile, Tim Collins did make the Kansas City club, and the little lefty could become the 49th M-Braves alumnus to advance to the big leagues. Unless, that is, he’s beaten to the field by Matt Young, the little outfielder who made Atlanta’s 25-man roster. Young is one of 10 former M-Braves currently with the parent club.