This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Fewer than 50 games remain in the Pacific Coast League season for the Salt Lake Bees, and the reality of their situation is clear. The Bees will have to catch fire just to reach the break-even mark.

It is time for the players to strengthen their hands for 2012.

As players prepare for Monday's home series with Sacramento, they aren't just playing for eyes inside the Los Angeles Angels. There are 29 other teams with holes to fill.

"I've been doing that all year," said Salt Lake third baseman Jeff Baisley during the recent Triple-A All-Star Game break. "I got released in December [from Oakland] and had to try and prove myself again."

So far, 2011 has been filled with success for the 28-year-old. Baisley has hit better than .300 all year and has enjoyed one of his best power and production seasons.

Baisley, who also ranks third in the PCL in total bases, isn't the only Bee to have put his best foot forward. Gil Velazquez has put together his best professional season at the plate with a career high in batting average. He ranks third in the PCL and has a chance to set a franchise hitting record, which is .365 by John Barnes in 2000.

Outfielder Jeremy Moore is one triple away from tying his career high of 13, while first baseman Efren Navarro, named the Angels' minor league defensive player of the month in June, hit for a .404 average last month. Navarro hasn't slowed in July: He's hitting .407 this month.

Reggie Willits' hitting streak has extended into double digits. Right now, though, it appears that the Bees (39-55) will have their first losing record since 2004.

"There will be scouts in the stands, just like they are every day," Baisley said. "So you've got to go out there and do your thing."

martyr@sltrib.comTwitter@tribmarty —

Upcoming homestand

P Monday-Thursday • Salt Lake vs. Sacramento, 7 p.m.

Friday-Monday • Salt Lake vs. Tacoma, 7 p.m.