Sampson, Rainiers Lock Down Bees In 3-1 Win

Tacoma take 8-1 season series lead over Salt Lake

June 14, 2016

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah. - The Tacoma Rainiers (36-27) secured a 3-1 victory over the Salt Lake Bees (30-32) on Monday night at Smith's Ballpark.

The Rainiers have held the Bees to just one run in six of the club's nine matchups this year, while Tacoma now holds an 8-1 advantage in the season series.

Center fielder Boog Powell and shortstop Chris Taylor, hitting from the first two spots in the Rainiers lineup, combined to go 4-for-9 with two runs and two RBI. Right fielder Stefen Romero checked in with one RBI of his own to round out the offensive effort.

Starting pitcher Adrian Sampson (7-4) bounced back from a rough last outing to contribute 6.0 shutout innings. He held the Bees to five hits while walking two and striking out three in the winning effort.

With two outs in the top of the fourth inning, second baseman Tyler Smith and Powell slapped back-to-back singles to put a pair of runners on base and set up a two-run triple from Taylor. Romero followed with an RBI double to give the Rainiers a 3-0 lead.

Salt Lake broke up the Rainiers shutout bid with a single run in the bottom of the seventh. Sherman Johnson led off the frame with a single and came around to score three batters later on an RBI single from Quintin Berry, cutting the Tacoma lead to 3-1.

Rainiers closer Blake Parker locked down his 11^th save of the season after striking out the side in the bottom of the ninth inning. He has converted 11-of-11 save opportunities this year.

Right-hander Donn Roach (4-4, 4.63) takes the mound for Tacoma as they continue their series in Salt Lake tomorrow, Tuesday, June 14. He will face off against Bees righty Blayne Weller (0-0, -.--). First pitch is set for 6:05 p.m. PT.

All tickets, group outings and suites packages for the 2016 season are available for purchase in-person at the Cheney Stadium Box Office, online at www.tacomarainiers.com, or over the phone at (253) 752-7707. The most up-to-date news and notes about the Rainiers throughout the season can be found by following the Rainiers on Twitter (@RainiersLand) or liking the team on Facebook.