Early Burst Sends Nuts to 8-1 Loss

Modesto, CA. - Ten doubles sent the Modesto Nuts to an 8-1 loss to the Stockton Ports on Sunday night at John Thurman Field.
Six of the doubles were recorded against the Nuts' (39-56; 9-16) starter Erik Espinal (L, 0-1) who was up from the Arizona League for a spot start. After hitting the first batter of the game, Espinal surrendered back-to-back RBI doubles before a sac fly capped the three-run first inning.
The second inning for the Ports (58-37; 14-11) yielded another run on two doubles. Espinal was knocked out of the third after allowing three more runs with the help of two more doubles. Espinal finished after 2 2/3 innings allowing seven hits and six runs.
The Nuts' only run came in the first inning against Ports starter Evan Manarino (W, 3-2). Kevin Santa doubled and scored when Anthony Jimenez singled him home. Manarino worked six innings allowing just the one run on six hits with three strikeouts and no walks.
Three relievers threw well out of the Nuts' bullpen allowing just two runs over 6 1/3 innings. Jeffeson Medina led the way with 3 1/3 scoreless frames allowing just two hits with two strikeouts.
The Nuts wrap up their four-game series with the Ports looking for a split on Monday night. First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m. Coverage on ModestoNuts.com will start at 6:50 p.m. Listen live online on your phone, tablet or PC by clicking HERE.