Scrappers hang on to edge Doubledays

Staff report

AUBURN, N.Y.

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers made two first-inning runs hold up in Wednesday’s 2-1 victory over the Auburn Doubledays.

Three pitchers combined to toss a three-hitter in the New York-Penn League game. Justin Garcia (2-0) relieved starter Juan Santana in the fifth inning to get the win. Garcia allowed no hits in his three innings of work. He struck out five and walked none.

Steven Patterson’s one-out homer put the Scrappers (7-12) ahead, 1-0. Bradley Zimmer followed with a walk and took third base when Francisco Mejia singled and right fielder Clay Williamson committed an error. Zimmer scored on Leo Castillo’s groundout.

Edward Estrella earned his first save by tossing the final two innings.

The Doubledays (8-10) threw a scare into the Scrappers when Austin Davidson homered to lead off the ninth inning.

Estrella responded by retiring the next three batters.

Santana allowed two hits in his four innings on the mound. One was a double by Cody Gunter.