Jared Schlehuber’s two-run homer propelled the Blue Rocks to a third-inning lead, and Mother Nature conspired to prevent the Sox from making a comeback bid as Wilmington dispatched Salem 3-0 in just five inningson Tuesday night. The two clubs will square off the series rubber match at 11 AM on Wednesday.
The game began 44 minutes late, despite not a single drop of rain falling. Nearby inclement weather narrowly missed the ballpark in the 7 PM hour, allowing the game to start at 7:49 PM. But after playing five quick innings in just over an hour, the ominous weather finally materialized, stopping the game after 61 minutes of play. Sixty-four minutes later, the game was officially called.
Leonel Santiago and William Cuevas both get credited with complete games because of the stoppage, with the former earning a five-frame shutout. Santiago improved to 3-1, permitting just three hits and one walk. Cuevas suffered his first loss since June 1, snapping a streak of five straight positive decisions. He allowed three runs (two earned) on five hits over five frames, with four strikeouts and no walks.
Justin Trabb went 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI for Wilmington, while Schlehuber’s third-inning homer was the biggest cut in the game for the Rocks. Stefan Welch, Mookie Betts, and David Chester each chipped in with a single for Salem. Blake Swihart went 0-for-2, squelching his nine-game hitting streak.
Salem sends Kyle Stroup to the mound at 11 AM on Wednesday morning, while J.C. Sulbaran starts for Wilmington.
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Chris Graham
