Winning pitcher Daniel Gonzalez. (Photo courtesy of George DeLuca/Connector)
by Alexa Hyde
Connector Editor
Despite allowing the visiting State College Spikes (20-11) an early home run, the Lowell Spinners (19-12) were able to earn a 9-2 win on the night after a grand slam in the third inning.
The Spinners starting pitcher Daniel Gonzalez threw for a home run on his second pitch of the night, giving the visiting team an early lead that they would hold onto for three innings. But despite the early setback, Gonzalez threw five strikeouts while allowing seven hits throughout his six innings pitched for Lowell.
Lowell struggled early on at bat, unable to earn a hit until first baseman Jerry Downs hit a fly ball for a double. However, the Spinners were unable to capitalize on the opportunity and trailed by one going into the third inning.
After a reach on a pitching error, a walk, and a single on a bunt, the Spinners had the bases loaded. Right fielder Chris Madera came up big for the Spinners, hitting the ball out of the park. The grand slam gave Lowell a three run lead during the third, which they added two more to in the inning with runs from Downs and designated hitter Ryan Scott. Lowell ended the third inning leading 6-1.
The Spinners extended their lead in the fourth inning, earning two more runs on the night. After a double by third baseman Steven Reveles, a single from left fielder Tyler Hill sent another two runners home, cementing Lowell’s victory.
Defensively, the Spinners kept the visiting Spikes from earning another run until the sixth inning, where Gonzalez pitched for a double that State College was able to capitalize on.
Gonzalez was replaced in the seventh inning by Pat Goetz, who allowed for two hits, no runs, and no walks for his two innings of play.
Lowell added a final run of the night in the seventh inning, after a double from Scott helped to send Madera home.
Stephen Nogosek closed out the night for the Spinners on the mound, seeing another two hits earned for the visiting team. Even though both teams ended the game with 11 hits each, Lowell was able to convert their offensive chances to earn another victory.
The Spinners stay at LeLacheur Park on Tuesday night to conclude their series with the State College Spikes, which is tied at one win each. The first pitch will be thrown at 7:05.
