Scrappers Win First Series of July

Jordan Boitnott

After a month full of losses and heartbreak it seems the Mahoning Valley Scrappers have finally broken through their struggles. This weekend they won their three-game series against the West Virginia Black Bears. It’s the first time they’ve won a series since a three-game set against the State College Spikes June 22-24. The win also snaps a nine-game losing streak.

The series started with a tough loss. The game started with the Scrappers having an early 4-0 lead by the end of the top of the 2nd. West Virginia stayed quiet until they scored three in the 5th to make it a one run game. They’d score again adding four runs in the 8th to take the late 7-4 lead. The Scrappers wouldn’t be deterred as they were able to mount a rally and score two in the 9th. Despite their valiant efforts it wouldn’t be enough and they fell short 7-6.

Collin Gordon and Jason Nall had great games. Gordon crushed a solo shot in the 1st along with another single. Nall went 3-4 with three singles and two RBI.

Game two the Scrappers redeemed themselves. Both the offense and the pitching staff were on point for the bout. As a unit the Scrappers scored six runs and combined for 11 hits. Every starter but Duncan Hewitt had a hit. Gordon led the way going 3-4 with three doubles, three runs scored and an RBI. The pitching staff only allowed one run as a unit giving the Scrappers the 6-1 victory. Starter Kyle Smith tossed five scoreless innings, he gave up five hits and struck out four. They’d score one in the 3rd, one in the 4th, two in the 5th and four in the 6th.

The third and final game of the series was where the Scrappers put on their best performance yet. The Scrappers did all their damage in the middle innings. Between the 3rd and 6th innings they scored eight runs.

Jason Hinchman blasted his sixth homer of the season and was walked. Sam Crail also had himself a big night going 2-2 at the dish with a double, single, two walks and two RBIs. The staff only gave up one run in the 8-1 victory. Similarly to game two, the starter worked into the 5th inning not giving up a run. Jason Rackers went the 4.2 innings of the night only giving up two hits and striking out three.

After the big series win the Scrappers will return home to Eastwood Field for a six-game homestand. Play will begin Tuesday, July 26 at 7:05 p.m. against the State College Spikes.

Tuesday will feature TOPPS Tuesday, the first 1,000 fans will receive a 2020 Bowman sample card pack. It’s also Senior Discount Tuesday presented by Shepherd of the Valley fans 55 and up can purchase half price Upper Box Seat tickets. Tuesday is also All You Can Eat Tuesday presented by 570 WKBN. Get all you can eat hot dogs, Italian sausage, soft tacos, nachos, French fries, popcorn and fountain drinks through the 7th inning. Fans can purchase this wristband for an additional $15 per person or additional $12 per child, 12 and under. Lastly, it’s Boardman-Canfield Community Day.