Collin McHugh was lights-out Saturday for the second straight year in Fenway Park (left), something that still sounds kind of odd given he's never pitched a game in the major leagues. But the Bisons right-hander has a 13-inning scoreless streak in the Futures at Fenway minor-league showcase and was rewarded today by being named International League Pitcher of the Week.
McHugh actually had two strong starts for the week, both against Pawtucket, and allowed just one run in 12 2/3 innings. He went 5 2/3 innings and got a no-decision in Monday's 5-1 loss at Coca-Cola Field, leaving with the score tied, and then tossed seven shutout frames Saturday in Fenway to lead the Bisons to their 2-0 win.
It was the first win for McHugh in seven starts since the All-Star break, despite the fact he owns a 2.70 ERA during that stretch. He's 2-4 in 12 starts with the Bisons but has a solid 3.39 ERA. McHugh went 5-5, 2.41 in 12 starts at Double-A Binghamton before his promotion to Buffalo.
McHugh has a combined 132 strikeouts against just 44 walks this year in 143 2/3 innings. His numbers in Buffalo are 67/27 in 69 innings. He's scheduled to pitch next Thursday in Coca-Cola Field against Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
McHugh is the second Bison honored by the league this year. OF Fred Lewis was named Batter of the Week for the period of July 9-15.
---Mike Harrington
(www.twitter.com/bnharrington)
Photo: McHugh works Saturday in Fenway/courtesy Buffalo Bisons
