4 Scrappers make all-star team

Staff report

NILES

Danny Jimenez, Bryson Myles, Jordan Smith and Tony Wolters of the Mahoning Scrappers have been selected for the New York-Penn League all-star game in Lowell, Mass., on Aug. 16.

Jimenez, the lone Scrappers pitcher selected, began the season in the bullpen before moving to the starting rotation. The left-hander has a 2.50 ERA as a starter.

“Not a lot of guys get that chance to make the team each year,” said Jiminez. “It’s a pretty big honor. I was pretty excited about that.”

Myles got off to a fast start, batting .313 through his first 19 games before suffering an injury. He stole 10 bases prior to the injury and has 11 for the season.

“I was actually a little shocked [to make the team] because I missed those two weeks, but I guess I played well enough to be honored to make the team,” said Myles.

Smith made his debut for the Scrappers on June 22 and forced in the winning run with a bases-loaded walk in the bottom of the 11th inning. He began the season with an 18-game home hitting streak and is batting .327 in 43 games entering. Smith is among the league leaders in average, hits, RBIs and doubles.

“It’s obviously a good feeling, along with other good players on our team,” said Smith. “To look back and say that first year, I was able to play in the all-star game. It’s just a good feeling. I’m looking forward to enjoying the whole experience.”

Wolters has started 48 games, including 46 at shortstop. He has 18 multi-hit games and has 15 stolen bases to lead the team.

“I just can’t wait to go out there and play some more baseball,” said Wolters, “with some of the elite players and meet some new friends.”