Scrappers pitchers contain Cyclones

Associated Press

NILES

Despite being out-hit 8-7 by the Brooklyn Cyclones, the Scrappers maintained the best record in the New York-Penn League with a 2-1 victory on Wednesday at Eastwood Field.

The win keeps the Scrappers (24-12) a half game ahead of the Hudson Valley Renegades (24-13).

Hosea Nelson, this week’s Hitter of the Week for the league, singled to score Tyler Freeman with the game’s first run in the first inning. Freeman and Mitch Reeves opened the frame with base hits.

In the second inning, Michael Tinsley’s sacrifice fly scored Ronny Dominguez for a 2-0 lead.

Dominguez walked to open the inning, advanced to second on a wild pitch and took third on a passed ball.

Nelson and Gianpaul Gonzalez each had two hits for the Scrappers.

Brooklyn (20-17) fought back versus Scrappers starter Juan Mota in the third. With two outs, Jose Miguel Medina doubled. Brian Sharp brought him in with a single to cut the Scrappers’ lead to 2-1.

Mota (2-3) 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.

The win gives Mahoning Valley its tenth series win (10-2-1) on the season.

The Scrappers will play for its fourth series sweep tonight. Luis Oviedo (3-1, 0.92 ERA), three-time NYPL Pitcher of the Week, is scheduled to oppose Brooklyn’s Joshua Walker (0-1, 2.70). First pitch is slated for 7:05 p.m. at Eastwood Field.

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