Early Runs too Much for Scrappers to Overcome

State College, PA- The State College Spikes put three runs on the board in the first inning and never looked back on Sunday night as the Mahoning Valley Scrappers three game win streak was snapped with a 5-1 loss at Lubrano Park.
            Ernie Clement got the game started with a triple in the top of the first inning, however, the Scrappers were unable to get him home.  
            In the bottom of the first the Spikes got back to back one singles from Wood Meyers and Scott Hurst. Both runners would then score on a two run triple from Evan Mendoza. Mendoza would then also score on an RBI ground out from Ricardo Bautista for a 3-0 first inning win.
            The Scrappers would get on the board in the top of the fifth inning. With two outs Jesse Berardi singled to extend the inning. Following an error, Clark Scolamiero singled to drive in Berardi to cut the Scrappers deficit to 3-1.   
            State College would answer right back with lone runs in the second and third innings to close out the scoring.
            The Scrappers had chances but could not get any more runs on the board as they stranded eight runners on base.  
            Grant Hockin (2-3) started and took the loss in 3.2 innings of work He allowed five runs, four earned, on nine hits. Hockin walked one and struck out one. Riley Echols would face one batter and recorded a strike out on three pitches. Kirk McCarty followed with three innings of work. He did not allow a runner and struck out one. Jonathan Teaney then went the final inning in relief. Teaney allowed one hit and walked one while striking out one.
  The Scrappers will look to even up the series against the Spikes on Monday night with James Karinchak getting the start. First pitch is set for 7:05. The Scrappers will return home for another PNC Bank Thursday Buck Night on July 27^th. Call the Scrappers box office at 330-505-0000 to get your tickets or get them online at www.mvscrappers.com.