The month of August’s winner is Mark Prior, right hand
pitching star for the Chicago Cubs.

In August, Prior went 5 – 0 with a 0.69 Earned Run
Average in five starts with two wins versus Los
Angeles, one versus the San Diego Padres, and one win
apiece versus division rivals, Houston Astros and St.
Louis Cardinals.

The emerging ace had 35 strikeouts and 21 hits allowed
in 39 innings pitched. He also gave up 3 runs, 1
homerun, and 4 walks. Prior, 6-5, 220 lbs. is only in
his second year in the Major’s but show signs of being
the best pitcher in the league for years to come with
his heavy fastball and deadly change-up.

His pitching performances whether during a winning
streak or to stop a losing streak has the Cubs in
serious contention for the National League Central
Division Title (currently in 3rd place) or at least a
Wild Card spot. The Cubs were only one game over .500
entering the month (55-54) and finished with a record
of 69-66.

Overall, Prior has 14 wins compared to 5 losses and a
2.36 E.R.A..

Who is your player of the month?
email me at clayton@geoclan.com.