Big Third Sends Nuts to Second Straight Loss

Modesto, CA – A flash of offense sent the Modesto Nuts to a 5-3 loss against the Fresno Grizzlies on Sunday afternoon at John Thurman Field.

Damon Casetta-Stubbs (L, 1-3) didn’t give up a hit until the third inning when the Grizzles (24-12) opened the flood gates. Back-to-back singles put two runners on ahead of Zac Veen. The Grizzlies right fielder hit a line drive into left that was misread by Alberto Rodriguez. The liner got over his head and rolled all the way to the wall scoring two runs. Ezequiel Tovar followed that up with a two-run blast. After that flurry of hits, Cassetta-Stubbs would allow just two more singles and he worked into the seventh inning before he was removed from the game. His 6.2 innings of work were the most by a member of the Nuts’ (21-15) rotation this season.

Breling Eusebio (W, 4-0) was excellent for the Grizzles over six innings. He allowed five hits and just one run while striking out seven.

Cade Marlowe and Dariel Gomez both homered in the game for the Nuts. Noelvi Marte doubled twice in the loss.

The Nuts brought the tying run to the plate in the ninth inning against closer Stephen Jones (S, 2/2). Alberto Rodriguez walked to start the inning before a strikeout and a groundout. Brett Rodriguez drove home Alberto with an RBI double before Ty Duvall struck out to end the game.

The Nuts will have Monday off before welcoming in the San Jose Giants on Tuesday night. First pitch will be at 7:05 p.m.