*The following is an official game recap from the Washington Wild Things*
Washington, Pa — In a wet ball game the Rockford Aviators were able to pull out the 5-1 victory over the Washington Wild Things, presented by Washington Financial, on Monday at CONSOL Energy Park.
The visiting Aviators (19-35) were able to draw first blood. With two outs in the opening frame, left fielder Edgar Corcino singled up the middle off Shawn Blackwell (3-5) plating second baseman Brian Bistagne from second.
Washington (25-30) tied at one in their first time at the dish. Center fielder Darian Sandford placed a picturesque bunt on the first base side for a single. He swiped second and third, his 38th and 39th stolen bases of the year, and was singled home by second baseman CJ Beatty two batters later on a Drew Rucinski (4-6) pitch.
Rockford took a 2-1 lead in the top of the fourth.
Again with two outs the Aviators were able to score a run. Blackwell walked catcher Greg Van Horn with the bases loaded, allowing right fielder Jeff Kremer to score.
In the top of the seventh, Rockford added two more runs.
Amalio Diaz relieved Blackwell, but allowed a single to Kremer which scored designated hitter Brandon Newton and center fielder Will Howard. Making it 4-1, Aviators.
A sacrifice fly into right field by Van Horn scored Bryant to give the Aviators their final run of the game.
Even in the defeat, the Wild Thing defense was impressive, especially the outfielders who made some heads up plays.
In the top of the second, third baseman Elvin Rodriquez hit a low line drive at left fielder Calvin Culver, who made a somersault catch and had the instinct to throw out a leaning Artiz Garcia at second. Then again in the top of the fourth, first baseman Kenny Bryant flew out to Sandford. Sandford gunned out Edgar Corcino attempting to tag from first to second.
Tomorrow is Christmas in July at CONSOL Energy Park when these two teams square off again at 7:05 p.m. Fans will get a chance to see Santa and Mrs. Clause, plus attendees with Christmas apparel on will be receive $2 off their tickets. In addition, the first 1000 fans will receive a Wild Things’ baseball cap. Tickets can be purchased by calling 724-250-9555.
For the box score visit: http://www.pointstreak.com/baseball/boxscoretext.html?gameid=124227
By: Michael Telek
Photo Credit: Washington Wild Things
