Banda Shuts Out Bakersfield in 3-0 Win
BAKERSFIELD-Anthony Banda became the first California League pitcher to throw a complete game shutout in 2015, as he blanked the Blaze 3-0 to give Visalia their 3rd win in a row.
The Rawhide scored all 3 of their runs in the top of the 2nd, as Jamie Westbrook beat out an infield single, which was followed by a walk to Fidel Pena. With 2 out, Breland Almadova grounded a base hit into right field, scoring Westbrook and making it 1-0. After Kevin Medrano reached on an error to load the bases, Alex Glenn flared a 2-run single into left field, scoring 2 runs and giving the 'Hide a 3-0 lead.
That would be it for the game, as Banda (5-3) scattered 5 singles while striking out 5 and walking 1. The Blaze had multiple runners on base just once (in the 5th inning), and they put a man in scoring position only twice.
The win moved Visalia to 37-19, and reduced their magic number to clinch the first half to 5.
They'll return home Monday to face the Lancaster JetHawks in a 3-game series! First pitch will be at 6:00 all 3 nights; Monday is a Make a Difference Monday with Fresno Pacific University; bring a school supply to donate, and you'll receive a free ticket!
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