Minor notes: Karns does well against Bundy, Meyer short stint "planned"

The low Single-A Hagerstown Suns have put together an incredible start, which culminated in their 50th victory of the season on July 4. Hagerstown dropped Lexington 3-2, rallying for two runs in the eighth frame. Catcher Sam Palace tallied a RBI on a fielder's choice that plated the game-winning run. Third baseman Matt Skole crushed his 19th homer and has 70 RBIs. Both figures lead the South Atlantic League. Not to mention, Skole has 71 walks, so he is getting his patience quota up to a great level. Right-handed pitching prospect Alex Meyer did have an abbreviated start. The starter pitched two scoreless innings and struck out three, walking two. A Nationals club source said that heat was a factor, but the short stint was planned. Meyer spent two innings in the clubhouse and then returned to the dugout. Big buzz surrounded Woodbridge, Va., Wednesday night, with Orioles top prospect and Frederick Keys hurler Dylan Bundy taking on high Single-A Potomac's best first-half pitcher Nathan Karns. Karns was able to pitch very well, going 5 2/3 innings and allowing just two runs on six hits, with seven strikeouts and just one walk. Potomac's offense stood up tall against Bundy with doubles by Stephen King and Erick Fernandez. Adrian Sanchez had three hits and also connected for a triple off of Bundy. Later, Jason Martinson hit a solo shot off of the Keys bullpen. The P-Nats stole three out of four base attempts versus Bundy. Martinson now has four homers and 13 RBIs for Potomac. Pretty stunning start since arriving from Hagerstown. Karns left with the lead, but Rob Wort allowed a three-run shot in the ninth, giving the Keys a 6-4 advantage. Double-A Harrisburg and Triple-A Syracuse roster notes. Catcher Sandy Leon has been activated and has been returned to the Senators. Outfielder Jesus Valdez, infielder Manny Mayorson and right-hander Austin Bibens-Dirkx have been promoted to Syracuse. Outfielder J.R. Higley was promoted from short-season Single-A Auburn to Harrisburg. Infielder Jose Lozada has been activated from disabled list and catcher Devin Ivany placed on disabled list.