Nuts Crush 66ers with 17-5 Rout, Extend Lead Atop California League North

April 20, 2025

Nuts Crush 66ers with 17-5 Rout, Extend Lead Atop California League North Final Score: Nuts 17, 66ers 5 By: Mario Ramos MODESTO, CA — April 19, 2025Donning their copa jerseys for the first time this season, the Modesto Nuts erupted for 17 runs on 14 hits Friday night as Los

Nuts Crush 66ers with 17-5 Rout, Extend Lead Atop California League North

Final Score: Nuts 17, 66ers 5

By: Mario Ramos

MODESTO, CA — April 19, 2025Donning their copa jerseys for the first time this season, the Modesto Nuts erupted for 17 runs on 14 hits Friday night as Los Alebrijes de Modesto, steamrolling the Inland Empire 66ers in a 17-5 blowout at John Thurman Field. Powered by a relentless offensive attack that included a seven-run seventh inning, the Nuts improved to 11-3 on the season and extended their lead atop the California League North. Every spot in Modesto’s lineup contributed, with nine players reaching base and eight recording hits.

The game turned into a runaway after the fifth inning, with Modesto breaking a 4-2 game wide open. LF Curtis Washington Jr. went 2-for-4 with two RBIs and a double, while SS Felnin Celesten added a pair of hits and a season-high three RBIs. Catcher Connor Dykstra was a force behind the plate and at bat, collecting two doubles and driving in two. 2B Dervy Ventura swiped two bases and added another RBI to round out a well-balanced performance from the Modesto lineup.

Modesto starter Christian Little battled through three innings before turning it over to reliever Anyelo Ovando, who earned the win with two scoreless frames. The bullpen combined to hold Inland Empire in check, with only a few blemishes coming off the bat of 66ers RF Raudi Rodriguez (2-for-5, RBI) and Kevin Castillo, who homered in the seventh. Inland Empire struggled with control and command on the mound, walking nine and allowing runs in six separate innings.

Despite a promising start, 66ers starter Peyton Olejnik couldn’t escape the fourth, taking the loss after giving up four runs. Modesto’s plate discipline and baserunning were key, drawing nine walks and stealing six bases in total. With the win, the Nuts showed once again why they’re the early-season team to beat, while the 66ers dropped to 5-9 and remain in second place in the California League South.