Kroeger Powers PawSox to Win

Josh Kroeger blasted a three run homer in the sixth inning to turn a 3-2 deficit into a 5-3 lead and eventually, a win on Thursday night at McCoy Stadium. Indianapolis starter, ML rehabber, Jeff Karstens was cruising along when he had to leave the game, due to an injury. Duke Welker came on and surrendered the home run to Kroeger. It was his eighth of the season. After falling behind 3-0, the PawSox (39-22) rallied for two runs in the fifth inning on RBI singles by Alex Hassan and Mike Rivera.

Brandon Duckworth improved to 6-1 with another solid effort. Duckworth went 6 innings, giving up three runs (2 earned). The Pawtucket bullpen delivered again. Clay Mortenson and Mark Melancon combined for three scoreless innings of relief. Melancon earned his 11th save for the Sox. The first place PawSox have won five straight.

The series concludes on Friday night at 7:05 p.m. Daniel Bard is scheduled to pitch one inning for the PawSox and is slated to be followed by Doug Mathis (4-3).