Hernandez Delivers Massive Performance in Pivotal Win over the Astros

KINSTON, NC - Jonathan Hernández turned in the best start of his career on Wednesday night to help the Wood Ducks (30-22) claim first place in the southern division again in a 1-0 victory over the Astros (29-22).

The right-hander tossed a new career-high eight innings and matched his career-high in strikeouts with 11 - a mark that was set just two starts ago. Also working eight shutout innings is a new high mark for the 21-year-old.
Hernandez allowed two baserunners in his first four innings, but found himself in the zone from innings four to seven. He retired 14 of his last 15 batters and at one point, 12 in a row. He only needed 94 pitches to cruise through eight frames, with 62 of them for strikes - a 66% rate.
Over his five starts in the month of May, Hernandez has maintained a 1.69 ERA with 45 strikeouts in 32 innings. He currently leads the Carolina League in strikeouts (73), WHIP (0.87), AVG (.162), and SO per 9IP (12.09).
The Wood Ducks' only run came in the seventh inning. Brendon Davis knocked an RBI double down the third base line to score Andretty Cordero - who reached on an error. Down East only had four hits, but it was just enough to compliment four walks drawn. Davis had the night's only multi-hit effort, finishing 2-for-3.
C.D. Pelham was called for the ninth inning, as he retired the top of the lineup leaving the tying run on second base. Wednesday was Pelham's ninth save in as many tries to take the league lead.
The Woodies move into solo first place with the victory and are the first team in the Carolina League to 30 wins. They join the Stockton Ports (OAK, California League) and Jupiter Hammerheads (MIA, Florida State League) as the only other Advanced-A teams to already reach the 30-win mark.
Thursday is the rubber game of the series with the Astros as the Wood Ducks look for their first two-game lead in the half. Left-hander Christian Torres (5-2, 2.72) will start opposite a TBD starter for the Astros at 7:00 p.m.
It will also be Throwback Thursday, presented by Budweiser. All tickets are $5, select Budweiser and Pepsi products are only $1, and the Wood Ducks become the Kinston Indians again. Gates open at 6:00 p.m. and tickets are available here