Anthony Lerew to Start for Atlanta Tonight

Entering the 2005 season, Anthony Lerew was the fifth rated prospect in the Braves organization and the second highest rated pitcher in the farm system. After going 8-9 at Myrtle Beach the previous year, Lerew prepared for AA and a possible jump to the big leagues in '05.

The 6'3" righty did little to shake that notion, going 6-2 with an ERA of 3.93 through 14 games in Mississippi including the only full complete game in Mississippi Braves history. He struck out 64 while walking 32 before his promotion to AAA Richmond on June 25.

To further his prospect status, Lerew tossed a shutout inning for the US team in the '05 Futures Game.
As it turned out, he did get that call up to Atlanta in '05. Lerew recieved a September call-up and made seven appearances for the big club down the stretch.

Unfortunately, 2006 wasn't as kind to Lerew. He started the year in AAA Richmond where he suffered a back strain that sidelined him for two weeks. After returning from the DL, Lerew was sent back to AA Mississippi to work with Pitching Coach Kent Willis, now the Minor League Pitching Coordinator for the Braves entire minor league system.

The move payed off as Lerew returned to form and was named the M-Braves Pitcher of the Month for July after going 4-1 with an ERA of 0.76 in six games. He then returned to Richmond in early August to finish out the year.

Now in 2007, Lerew has been dominate. His patience and hard work have payed off as he will start for Atlanta tonight. While in AAA Richmond this year, Lerew was 1-0 with an ERA of 1.37.

by
Nick Skinner