Defense dooms Dash in doubleheader sweep

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (April 16, 2014) - Early defensive woes doomed the Winston-Salem Dash once again, and the Frederick Keys took advantage in a 2-0 victory in the back-end of a doubleheader Wednesday afternoon at BB&T Ballpark.

Frederick's victory followed a 5-3 win in the opening contest.

The Keys pulled ahead for good in the second inning of the second game. A one-out error by shortstop Michael Johnson allowed Frederick catcher Steel Russell to reach base. He later scored on a two-out double by shortstop Sammie Starr. Also in that inning, Lucas Herbst reached on a fielder's choice and came home on an RBI infield single by center fielder Glynn Davis. The 2-0 deficit would prove to be insurmountable for the Dash.

Winston-Salem could only muster four hits against Keys' hurlers Jesse Beal, Gene Escat (1-0) and Matt Price. Right fielder Grant Buckner provided two knocks for the Dash, while designated hitter Jacob May and left fielder Courtney Hawkins supplied the other hits.

Bryan Blough (0-1) allowed both of the Frederick runs during his three-inning spot start, but neither were earned. He surrendered four hits and one walk while striking out two. Jefferson Olacio worked three scoreless innings in relief for the Dash, striking out four. Jarrett Casey tossed a scoreless seventh inning for Winston-Salem.

With errors in both contests, the Dash are now 2-9 this season when committing a defensive miscue. They also fell to 2-9 in games when the opponent scores first.

Winston-Salem will look to avoid the three-game sweep at the hands of Frederick Thursday night at BB&T Ballpark. Right-hander Tony Bucciferro is slated to pitch for the Dash, while the Keys have yet to announce their starter. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m. For tickets to this Thirsty Thursday, which features 50 percent off all beer through the seventh inning, visit wsdash.com or call (336) 714-2287.