Walk-Off Winner for Quakes on Friday

Rancho Cucamonga, CA – A throwing error in the bottom of the ninth inning helped the Quakes walk it off in front of a sold-out crown on Friday night, as they won their third straight game with a 4-3 victory over the Stockton Ports at LoanMart Field.

With the bases loaded and no outs, Stockton reliever Mark Avant (2-1) coaxed Jeral Perez into a grounder to third. Third baseman Luke Mann came home to get the first out of the inning, but catcher Cole Conn’s attempt at a double-play failed, as his throw sailed into right field, allowing Jake Gelof to score from second base and send more than 4,700 fans home happy.

Jorge Gonzalez (1-0) struck out four batters over the final two innings to net the win.

Gelof had two more RBIs to give him a team-high 12 through his first seven games.

Zyhir Hope doubled to lead off the ninth inning, extending his hitting streak to a team-high seven games to open the year.

Dodger right-hander Walker Buehler started and pitched two innings for the Quakes, falling short of the five innings which was the plan coming into Friday’s game. With a runner on in the second, Stockton’s Darlyn Montero hit a line drive that got a piece of Buehler’s right hand. He would remain in the game and work through the second inning, allowing one run on a total of three hits. Buehler would not come out for the third however, ending his night after just 27 pitches.

The Quakes (4-3) will look for a series win on Saturday night, sending Carlos Duran (0-0) to the mound against Stockton’s Franck De La Rosa at 6:30pm. 1,500 fans will take home a free jersey and everyone will enjoy post-game Fireworks thanks to Yaamava’ Resort and Casino at San Manuel. Tickets are available at rcquakes.com. Go Quakes!