Owlz outlast Raptors for 1-0 series lead

OGDEN, Utah-The Orem Owlz capitalized on five errors by the Ogden Raptors and took Game 1 of the Pioneer League Semifinals Friday. With two runs in the top of the 10th, the Owlz outlasted the Raptors with a final of 6-5.

The Raptors (0-1) took a first-inning lead as Keibert Ruiz came in to score on a single to left by Brandon Montgomery. The Owlz (1-0) then took the lead with two runs after L.J. Kalawaia led off the inning with a double.

Moises Perez reached on an error as he led off the bottom of the fifth, then advanced around the bases on a fielder's choice, fly out then scored on a single to left by D.J. Peters to tie the game.

Jack Kruger led off the eighth and reached on a throwing error by shortstop Gavin Lux. John Schuknecht attempted to lay down a sacrifice bunt to put Kruger in scoring position, but ended up with more as Kruger came around to score on an errant throw to first by pitcher Sven Schuller. After a second throwing error on the play by Perez, Schuknecht finished the play on third base. With Keith Grieshaber at the plate, Schuknecht scored on a wild pitch with an 0-2 count to give the Owlz a 4-2 lead.

The Raptors equalized in the bottom of the eighth with a two-run home to right center by Luis Paz.

Kruger led off the 10th for the Owlz with a single to left, then advanced to third after Grieshaber reached on a fielding error by center fielder Cody Thomas. Orem took a 6-4 lead as Keinner Pina plated both Kruger and Grieshaber with a single to center.

Ogden threatened in the bottom of the 10th as Paz led off the inning with another homer, but Tyler Warmoth retired the next three Raptors in order to end the game.

The Owlz have a chance to close out the series as they return to the Home of the Owlz Saturday. First pitch is scheduled for 1:05 p.m. MT.