AFL 11/8/12 AFL recap: Joc finally breaks through

Joc Pederson was the only Dodger to play for Mesa on Thursday, but he represented the organization well as his 3-run homer was the key to the Solar Sox 4 - 3 victory over the Desert Dogs. The bomb must have lifted a huge weight off of Pederson's shoulders as the youngster has struggled mightily so far this Fall. Before this game he had just 3 singles in 10 games, and even now he is still batting just .103.

MLB.com writer Andrew Pentis caught up with Joc after his first big game, and while you can read the whole article here, I will mention a few Pederson quotes as he said the homer felt "really, really good", and that "I feel alright. I enjoy it. It's a grind. I'm working on the mental aspect of the game, enjoying it while it lasts. I feel pretty good at the plate, so we'll see if I can build on it."

Outside of his lack of hits, Pederson is making good contact as he's struck out just 5 times in 39 at bats, although his walk rate is also down as he managed to coax just 2 free passes. In the field he has been playing mostly in left, and he has made one error.

Getting back to the game, Joc's homer came in the 4th and Mesa led 3 - 0 until the 8th when Phoenix tied the game on Grant Green's (A's) long ball. Jonathan Schoop's (Orioles) RBI single in the bottom of the frame gave Mesa the lead back for good.

Thursday Mesa Solar Sox Box Score

Coming up: The Solar Sox will head to Salt River on Friday, but their pitcher is yet to be announced. Throwing for the Rafters will be Cory Riordan of the Rockies organization.