Jones Delivers in Dust Devils Win
The pitching was stellar throughout the night for the Dust Devils. Starter Ben Hughes got a no decision after giving up three runs in 5 1/3 innings of work. Reliever Matt Flemer (3-2) kept the Emeralds off the scoreboard in 2 and 2/3 innings out of the bullpen and earned the win. Closer Seth Willoughby struck out the side, slamming the door shut on Eugene (41-26) and securing his seventh save of the season.
Rosell Herrra led off the bottom of the 8th by striking out, but reached aboard as the pitch got past Eugene catcher Chris O'Dowd. Derek Jones came through with a clutch two-out single to drive in Herrera and give the Dust Devils the lead that they would not relinquish. The hit came off of Eugene reliever Mark Picca (4-1), who suffered his first loss of the season, despite give up only an unearned run. It's been a good two days for Jones, who hit his first professional home run on Tuesday night.
The final home series of the season for the Dust Devils continues with the Emeralds on Thursday night. The Dust Devils will send right-hander Peter Tago to the hill. The 20-year old Tago is 2-6 with a 5.34 ERA. The Emeralds with counter with righty Joe Ross, who comes into the game with a 0-2 record and a 2.70 ERA. First pitch is at 7:15 p.m. and gates open at 6:15 p.m. It is Poster Giveaway Night presented by the Tri-City Herald.