Fightins shutout by Flying Squirrels

The Fightin Phils (61-25) managed just three hits and suffered their fourth shutout loss of the season as they lost 9-0 to the Richmond Flying Squirrels (32-52). Despite the loss the Fightins still have the best record in professional baseball.  

Chris Shaw hit a two-out, two-run home run in the bottom of the first off Fightins starter Tyler Viza (2-2) to give Richmond a 2-0 lead. Viza retired 16 out of the next 18 batters heading into the bottom of seventh inning. Reading only managed one hit through the first eight innings, a double by Jesmuel Valentin.

Richmond scored four runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to take a 6-0 lead.  Viza recorded one out before leaving the game for Miguel Nunez. Nunez issued three walks and allowed a run without recording an out as Matt Hockenberry entered the game to finish out the inning. Hockenberry gave up three runs in the bottom of the eighth as Richmond took a 9-0 lead. 

Kyle Crick (2-7) got the win for the Flying Squirrels. The Fightin Phils this series so far have seen the Squirrels score a total of 34 runs with a total of 41 hits.  

The Fightin Phils and Richmond Flying Squirrels wrap up their series at The Diamond on Thursday night. First pitch is at 7:05 pm. Fans can listen to the game on Sports Radio AM 1240/FM 98.5 and fightins.com beginning at 6:35 pm.

Tickets for the 2016 season are available online at Fightins.com, by phone at 610-370-BALL, and in-person at FirstEnergy Stadium.