Lindor-Mania takes over Canal Park in Aeros Win
Akron, OH - By the third time Francisco Lindor walked up to the plate Thursday night at Canal Park, the Akron faithful began to chant, "Fran-cis-co." The highly-touted Indians prospect put on a show and gave everyone a look into the type of hitter he can be, going 3-for-5 with a home run, a double and three runs batted in to lead the Aeros to a 5-1 win over the Richmond Flying Squirrels.
Akron used a three-run seventh, which included a two-run single by Lindor and a sacrifice fly by Carlos Moncrief, to pull away from the Flying Squirrels for good.
Meanwhile, the Flying Squirrels put runners on early, but Aeros starter Matt Packer (10-5, 2.52) battled back and used an assortment of strikeouts and ground ball double plays to get out of the first six innings unscathed.
Akron capitalized on Richmond's missed opportunities, as Lindor hit a solo-bomb off Flying Squirrels starter Taylor Rogers into the bullpen in right to get Akron on the board. It was his first with Akron. Later in the inning, designated hitter Cedric Hunter ripped an RBI-double down the first base line to extend the Aeros get away to 2-0 in the bottom of the third.
Overall, Rogers (5-7, 5.79) went six innings; gave up five runs off nine hits, with three strike outs and three walks.
Back on the hill for Akron, Packer continued to cruise until the top of the seventh, when catcher Andrew Susac clocked his 12th home run of the season to cut the Akron lead to 2-1. But the left-hander ended his night on a high note and struck out the next batter.
For the evening, Packer went 6.1 innings; surrendered just one run off six hits, struck out six and walked a pair. He has not lost a decision since May 13 and has now allowed just 10 earned runs over his last 56.1 innings.
Aeros reliever Jeff Johnson took over the rest of the seventh, as well as the eighth, and didn't allow a base runner or hit in the process. Trey Haley, who has been dominant in July with a 0.79 ERA (nine appearances, 11.1 innnings pitched), came in ninth and sealed the victory for Akron.
Friday's Promotions: It's Christmas in July! (presented by the Salvation Army): A multitude of Santas will be at Canal Park as fans can participate in the Santa Jersey Auction behind home plate for game worn jerseys! There will be a Salvation Army canteen outside of the box office to collect coats, winter hats and food; fans that donate will receive a ticket to the Sunday, August 18th game (One ticket per person). The Salvation Army will also have red kettles & bell ringers to collect donations at Gate A. Plus, Holiday Spectacular Fireworks presented by Gionino's!
Akron (52-53) will continue its series with the Richmond Flying Squirrels (48-57) Friday night at 7:05. RHP Brett Brach (7-5, 3.63) is the announced starter for the Aeros, while LHP Chris Gloor (5-6, 5.65) is the expected starter for the Flying Squirrels. The game will be broadcast live on Fox Sports 1350 AM, and online at www.sportsradio1350.com. For more information, please call the Aeros at 330-253-5151. Follow the team on Twitter @akronaeros or on Facebook at facebook.com/theakronaeros.