Captains steal home and game, 8-5

Lansing, Mich - With the game tied at five and two outs in the top of the ninth, a double steal brought in the first of three runs for the Lake County Captains (4-7, 40-39) in an 8-5 win over the Lansing Lugnuts (6-5, 48-33) Sunday at Cooley Law School Stadium. 

Reliever Jose Fernandez (Loss, 0-2) winged a pickoff throw to first with runners on first and third. While Ordomar Valdez ran to second safely, Yonathan Mendoza sprinted home to give the Captains the edge on a double steal.

Lake County's momentum continued with two more base hits to complete the three-run ninth.

After Jason Leblebijian nailed a three-run home run in the third, Lansing led, 5-1.

The Captains scored seven consecutive runs and used a trio of relievers to stop the Lugs. Jordan Carter, Caleb Hamrick (Win, 3-1), and Cameron Hill (Save, 6) allowed six hits and no runs in six relief innings.

Meanwhile, Lansing's staff started strong thanks to Conor Fisk. In his first Midwest League start, the 23-year-old allowed three runs in 5.2 IP.

Tim Mayza gave up two runs to the Captains in the sixth, tying the score at five.

Lansing's home stand continues for two more games against the in-state rival Great Lakes Loons. Starlyn Suriel (5-3, 2.77) has not allowed more than four earned runs his last ten appearances and tries his luck against Trevor Oaks (3-5, 2.73) Monday at 7:05 p.m.

For more information about the rest of the homestand, call (517) 485-4500 or visit lansinglugnuts.com.