Scrappers Blank Muckdogs

[Empty Body]

Niles, OH- The Mahoning Valley Scrappers picked up their 12^th series win of the season on Thursday night at Eastwood Field. The Scrappers scored two runs in the fifth inning and used dominant pitching from the bullpen for their first shutout win at home this season, 2-0 over the Batavia Muckdogs.       
            The Scrappers would plate the only runs of the game in the bottom of the fifth inning. Simeon Lucas started the inning with a single and moved to third on a single from Hosea Nelson. Lucas would then come in to score on an RBI sacrifice fly from Mike Rivera. Nelson then stole second and advanced to third on a throwing error. With two outs Ernie Clement delivered an RBI single to score Nelson for the 2-0 lead.
            Three Scrappers pitchers would combine to hold the Muckdogs to just three singles and struck out 11 as Mahoning Valley earned their second shutout win of the season.
            Kirk McCarty started and took a no decision in 3.0 innings of work. McCarty allowed two hits. He walked two and struck out four. Randy Valladares (3-2) earned the win in 2.0 innings of relief. He walked two and struck out two without allowing a hit. Jean Carlos Mejía (2) picked up the save with 4.0 innings of relief. Mejia allowed one hit and walked one while striking out five.
            With the win the Scrappers now set up a battle for control of the Pinckney Division when the West Virginia Black Bears come to Eastwood Field for three game starting Friday night. The Scrappers and Black Bears are tied for 1^st in the division. Cleveland Indians starter Josh Tomlin will make a rehab appearance and will get the start for Mahoning Valley. First pitch is set for 7:05. Call the Scrappers box office at 330-505-0000 to get your tickets or get them online at www.mvscrappers.com.