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08/12/2006 12:53 AM ET
Swarzak shuts down Reds
Miracle righty strikes out 11 in 7 2/3 scoreless innings
By Ryan McConnell / Special to MLB.com
Anthony Swarzak is 4-0 with a 1.95 ERA in five starts since July 9. (Fort Myers Miracle)

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Anthony Swarzak struck out a season-high 11 over 7 2/3 innings Friday night as the Fort Myers Miracle blanked the Sarasota Reds, 7-0, at William Hammond Stadium.

Swarzak (8-6) yielded three hits and a walk in lowering his ERA to 3.41. The 20-year-old right-hander pitched a nine-inning one-hitter on July 24 but felt even better on Friday.

"This performance, I felt more dominant on the mound," said Minnesota's second-round pick in the 2004 draft. "My fastball was definitely working."

After losing five of his first eight decisions, Swarzak has won five of his last six while allowing seven runs over his last 46 2/3 frames.

"I wish I would have gotten off to a better start," said Swarzak, who credits an improved mental approach for the better results. "I felt like I was being passed up a little bit (by some 2005 draft picks). "Now I'm just trying to stay focused on every pitch.

"I'm definitely happy with my performance tonight."

Ryan Callahan replaced Swarzak and got the last four outs, giving up a hit and fanning one.

Brandon Roberts, Brock Peterson and Deacon Burns homered, while Luke Hughes belted two doubles for the Miracle (26-20).

Hector Tiburcio, John Purdom III, Jay Garthwaite and J.D. Roberts slapped singles for the Reds (25-23).

Sarasota starter Justin Mallett (1-2) took the loss after surrendering four runs on six hits and three walks while striking out two over five innings.

Ryan McConnell is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.