Hawks Fall in Extras, Lose Playoff Chance
Rico Noel doubled home B.J. Guinn in the bottom of the eleventh against Jeremy Erben (LP, 3-4), providing the game winning run in a rather improbable finish to Thursday's game.
The TinCaps rallied with four runs in the bottom of the eighth inning, erasing South Bend's 6-2 lead in dramatic fashion. Noel, Rymer Liriano, and Luis Domoromo all had run scoring extra-base hits, with Domoromo scoring the tying run when Roberto Ortiz booted the ball in right field to turn his triple into a run on the error.
Most in attendance thought that the TinCaps would win the game in the bottom of the tenth inning when they loaded the bases with nobody out. Chris Odegaard (ND) had other plans as he struck out two batters and then got a ground ball to pitch out of the jam.
The Silver Hawks built the lead early mainly on the bat of Gerson Montilla. He had three hits and three RBIs for the Silver Hawks, while Ramon Castillo, Raywilly Gomez and Ortiz each added RBIs as well.
The loss spoiled another great outing for Mike Bolsinger (ND), who allowed only two runs (one earned) in 6.0 innings. Bolsinger, who is not scheduled to pitch again this year, will finish the year with a 6-6 record and a remarkable 2.66 ERA.
Noel led the TinCaps with four hits, two RBIs, and two runs. Adam Dominick (WP, 5-6) pitched a scoreless tenth and eleventh for the win.
The final game of the series is at 7:05 PM Eastern Time on Friday night at Parkview Field. RHP Jeff Shields (9-12, 4.35 ERA) will take the mound for the final time this season against Fort Wayne's LHP Mark Hardy (10-10, 2.94 ERA). Pre-game coverage begins at 6:45 PM Eastern Time on www.sportsjuice.com and www.silverhawks.com.