Raptors Collapse in Ninth Against Chukars

In Ogden, the Raptors blew a 7-4 lead in the ninth to lose 7-8 to the Idaho Falls Chukars, falling 1.5 games back of the Grand Junction Rockies in the playoff race. Ultimately, the loss did not affect Ogden. Grand Junction's win over Orem today means that Ogden has to win three of four in Grand Junction this week to make the playoffs, regardless of Ogden's outcome today.  

The Raptors and Chukars traded blows through four innings, knotted 4-4. Luis Paz hit his sixth homer of the year to break the tie in the fifth. In the sixth, Jordan Paroubeck doubled in Cody Thomas for an insurance run. 

But it wasn't enough insurance, as the Raptors imploded in the ninth. Jorge Gonzalez, who was solid in relief, ran out of gas and ran out of help. Three hits, four errors, and four runs later, Ogden trailed 7-8. The Raptors went down quietly in their last ups. 

Vinny Santarsiero finished the game on the mound and was the tough luck loser after giving up an unearned run. His season ERA is still 0.00 through 6.2 innings. 

Jordan Paroubeck continues to rake, going 2-4 with his fifth homer and fourth straight multi-hit game. Mitchell Hansen went 2-5 to raise his average to .298. Jared Walker hit his fourth homer of the year, and Luiz Paz drove in four runs. 

Ogden travels to Grand Junction for a four game set beginning Monday. They must win three of four to make the playoffs. The Rockies are not dominating at home (18-16), but the Raptors have not been impressive on the road (11-23). 

You can listen to A.P. Harreld call the action on the Ogden Radio Network on the TuneIn app.