The Portland Sea Dogs (77-50) came out on top of the Richmond Flying Squirrels (70-56), 1-0, in a pitcher’s duel that took 10 innings to complete on Saturday night at Hadlock Field. With the loss, Richmond’s magic number remains 10 to claim a post-season spot. Bowie’s game with Trenton was not complete at the writing of this game recap.
Portland right-hander Keith Couch was exceptional, working eight scoreless innings. The Squirrels never threatened him, as he allowed just two hits – both singles. He did walk three, but struck out seven. He did not factor in the decision.
Richmond righty Clayton Blackburn was even better. He also twirled eight scoreless innings – marking the longest outing of the season for the 21-year old. He permitted just three hits, walked none and established a new career-high with 11 strikeouts. Blackburn did not register a decision despite his gem.
The Sea Dogs finally notched the first – and only – run of the night in the bottom of the 10th inning. Right-hander Edwin Quirarte had worked a scoreless ninth, but walked the lead-off man, Carson Blair. David Chester followed with a single and Jonathan Roof bunted the two runners into scoring position. The Squirrels elected to intentionally walk Ryan Dent to load the bases. Heiker Meneses then ended the ballgame with a single off the Maine Monster – the left field wall.
Quirarte (9-7) took the loss for the Squirrels. Right-hander Dayan Diaz (2-1) fired two innings of scoreless relief to earn the win.
The finale of the three-game series is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Hadlock Field on Sunday afternoon. Richmond RHP Kyle Crick (6-6, 3.32) will make the start against Portland RHP Mike Augliera (5-10, 4.90). The Flying Squirrels Pregame Warmup begins at 12:30 p.m. on Sports Radio 910 and SportsRadio910.com.
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Chris Graham
