Belza, Hawks trample Dragons
J.R. Bradley (5-4) earned his second straight win for South Bend, allowing two earned runs on six hits over six innings. The right-hander has not allowed more than two earned runs in his last six outings. Dan Jensen (3-8) got saddled with the loss for Dayton, surrendering six runs - four earned - on nine hits over 3.1 innings.
The Silver Hawks took a 5-0 lead after a two-run first inning and a three-run second inning. The Silver Hawks broke it open with a five-run eighth inning and never trailed in the game.
Belza was 4-for-5 with four RBIs, including a run-producing triple in the second inning. Belza added a two-RBI single in the eighth inning. Belza's last four-hit game was on April 15 against Dayton at Coveleski Stadium.
Fidel Pena finished 3-for-3 and reached base in all five of his plate appearances. Pena singled three times, walked and was hit by a pitch. Matt Helm and Raul Navarro both tallied two hits for the Silver Hawks. Helm started the scoring with an RBI base hit in the first inning.
The Silver Hawks finished 7-for-15 with runners in scoring position.
Right-hander Kable Hogben tossed two scoreless innings out of the Silver Hawks bullpen. Kaleb Fleck worked the ninth inning and allowed two earned runs on two hits.
The Silver Hawks last scored 12 runs in a 12-10 win against the Beloit Snappers on April 19 at Coveleski Stadium.
All nine starters reached base for South Bend while eight different starters recorded at least one hit in the game. The Silver Hawks and Dragons resume a three-game series Friday at Coveleski Stadium. Left-hander John Pedrotty (4-5, 5.72) starts for South Bend while Radhames Quezada (5-6, 3.75) gets the nod for Dayton. First pitch is slated for 7:35 p.m. EST. Tickets are available for purchase by calling 235-9988 or by visiting www.silverhawks.com.