Monday, July 20, 2009

Charlotte Stone Crabs winning streak extends to six with win over Lakeland

Charlotte Stone CrabsThe Game: The Charlotte Stone Crabs extended their winning streak to a season high six games with a 7-2 win over the Lakeland Flying Tigers in game one of a double header at Joker Marchant Stadium.

Charlotte jumped out to an early lead in the first inning as Omar Luna got things started with a double to center. Henry Wrigley delivered an RBI single to left to score Luna and give the Stone Crabs a 1-0 lead. Lakeland battled back to tie the game in the bottom of the second inning off a solo home run by Jeramy Laster.

The Stone Crabs then capitalized on sloppy play by the Flying Tigers to take the lead in the third inning.. Omar Luna led off the inning with a single to third and later advanced to second on a passed ball by Lakeland catcher Jordan Newton. Shawn Riggans the drew a walk to put two runners aboard for the Stone Crabs. Luna then stole third and then scored on a throwing error by Newton. Ryan Royster delivered a single that scored Riggans and gave the Stone Crabs a 3-1 lead.

The Stone Crabs continued to take advantage of the Lakeland mishaps on defense as they increased their lead in the fifth inning. Omar Luna once again got things going with a single to center. Shawn Riggans was then hit by a pitch to give Charlotte runners at first and second. Luna then stole third and scored on an errant throw by Lakeland pitcher Matt Hoffman. Ryan Royster then drove home Riggans with an RBI single to right. Shawn Williams cleared the bases with a two run home run to give the Stone Crabs a 7-1 lead.

Lakeland struck for another run in the bottom of the sixth off an RBI single by Jordan Newton that scored Audy Ciriaco. But the Stone Crabs held on for the 7-2 victory.

Darin Downs was the winner, pitching 5 innings and allowing 1 run on 7 hits while striking out 5 and walking 2. Brian Shouse made his second rehab appearance going 1 inning and allowing 1 run on 4 hits with a strikeout. Tommy Rafferty pitched the final frame and did not allow a hit and recorded 2 strikeouts and a walk. Matt Hoffman was the losing pitcher for Lakeland.

What Went Right: Omar Luna; broke out of his offensive slump by going 3 for 4 with a double, 3 runs scored and 2 stolen bases.

What Went Wrong: Shawn O’Malley; 0-4 in the leadoff spot with 1 K.

A Look Ahead: The Stone Crabs and Flying Tigers play game two of Monday night’s doubleheader at Joker Marchant Stadium. Brian Flores (0-3) gets the start for Charlotte.

No comments:

Post a Comment