Scrappers Maintain NYPL's Best Record with Win over Cyclones

NILES, O.H. - Less was more for the Mahoning Valley Scrappers offense versus the Brooklyn Cyclones on Wednesday at Eastwood Field. Despite being out-hit 8-7 by the Cyclones, the Scrappers mustered enough offense to plate runs in the first two innings. With its 2-1 victory, the Scrappers keep a 0.5 game hold of the best record (24-12) in the New York-Penn League over the Hudson Valley Renegades (24-13).
Reigning NYPL Hitter of the Week Hosea Nelson entered Wednesday hitting safely in three of his last four games, and he was batting .385 in his previous ten games. His single in the bottom of the first inning scored the game's first run. Tyler Freeman and Mitch Reeves each knocked one-out singles before Nelson brought Freeman in. Nelson, along with Gianpaul Gonzalez, notched two hits for the Scrappers.
The Scrappers padded its lead in the second after a pair of errant Cyclones pitches. Ronny Dominguez walked to start the inning. After Henry Pujols flew out, Michael Tinsley stepped in. Dominguez advanced to second on a wild pitch by Cyclones starter Kevin Smith, and he went to third on a passed ball by catcher Nick Meyer. Shortly after, Tinsley brought Dominguez in with a sacrifice fly to give the Scrappers a 2-0 lead after two innings.
Brooklyn (20-17) fought back versus Scrappers starter Juan Mota in the third. With two outs, Jose Miguel Medina doubled. Brian Sharp then brought him in with a single to cut Mahoning Valley's lead to 2-1. Wagner Lagrange singled to advance Sharp to second, but Chase Chambers grounded into a force out to end the scoring threat.
Mota tossed five innings, allowing one run on six hits. He struck out five and did not allow a walk. Adoni Kery, Jordan Scheftz, Luis Araujo, and Manuel Alvarez allowed a combined four baserunners in four total innings of relief.
Wednesday's win gives Mahoning Valley its tenth series win (10-2-1) on the season. The Scrappers will play for its fourth series sweep of the season on Thursday. Three-time NYPL Pitcher of the Week Luis Oviedo (3-1, 0.92 ERA) is scheduled to oppose Brooklyn's Joshua Walker (0-1, 2.70). First pitch is slated for 7:05 p.m. at Eastwood Field.
Thursday is the third Buck Night of the season, presented by Quaker Steak and Lube and radio partner 93.3 The Wolf. Fans can enjoy $1 general admission tickets, hot dogs, domestic draft beer, and fountain drinks. Thursday is also the Christmas in July celebration at Eastwood Field.
For tickets, visit the Chevy All Stars Box Office at Eastwood Field, mvscrappers.com, or call (330) 505-