Quakes Hold Off Modesto In Opener

Modesto, CA- The Quakes scored early and clung to shrinking lead on Friday night, topping the Modesto Nuts 3-2 in the series opener at John Thurman Field.
Isaac Anderson tied a career-long outing on the mound and Logan Landon provided the only run-scoring hit on the night.
The Quakes gave Anderson a lead before he stepped to the mound, jumping Modesto starter Austin Hutchison for a pair of runs in the first.
Omar Estevez drew a one-out walk and Cody Thomas doubled off of the batters eye in center to put a pair in scoring position. Logan Landon followed with a two-run single into center, giving Rancho the 2-0 lead.
Rancho would go on to score in consecutive innings to open the game. Nick Yarnall reached on a fielder's choice in the second and Gavin Lux singled to put runners on the corners. The single by Lux extended his on-base streak to 26 games, now tied for the longest this season in the Cal League.
Manager Drew Saylor called for a double steal and the throw down to second was late as Lux slid in safely. Yarnell scored from third on the play to give Rancho a 3-zip lead.
Modesto scored in the fourth on a Nick Zammarelli RBI-single and added with a Luis Liberato solo home run in the seventh.
With a 3-2 lead, Anderson (6-5) gave way to the bullpen in the eighth. Connor Strain tossed a scoreless eighth and Logan Long sat down the side in order in the ninth for his third save of the season.
The win pushes Rancho to 62-44 overall and 27-9 during the second half of play.
The Quakes continue the series on Saturday as RHP Dustin May (6-3) is scheduled to start for Rancho. May will be opposed by fellow right-hander Ljay Newsome (5-7) in game two of the series. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 PM
The Quakes return to LoanMart Field on July 31^st to host the Lake Elsinore Storm in a short three-game home stand. Tickets are available online at rcquakes.com or by calling (909) 481-5000.