The Washington Wild Things, behind a strong hustle play in the top of the sixth inning, were able to pick up a 4-3 win to cap off the first half of the season.
After the Florence Freedom scored a run in the bottom of the first, the Wild Things were able to tack on three runs in the top of the third to take the lead. After Freedom pitcher Casey Henn walked in the first run of the inning in the third, newcomer Matt Mirabel drove in Shain Stoner and Stewart Ijames for the 3-1 lead. The two RBIs are the first two as a Wild Thing for Mirabel who came to the Wild Things just the other day.
Florence would tack on another run in the bottom of the third inning, though. Wild Things pitcher Gary Lee was able to force a ground out, but not before Jeremy Hamilton trotted across the plate. The Freedom would strike again in the fifth inning when right fielder Byron Wiley doubled in a run, tying the game.
In the top of the sixth, the Wild things would take the lead for the final time and keep it. Stoner was able to hustle down the line and beat out a double play that scored designated hitter Mark Samuelson, putting the score at 4-3.
Things would get testy in the bottom of the seventh inning and Wild Things manager Bart Zeller would use his baseball knowledge to get his team out of a jam. After going to the bullpen twice to play the match-up game, the Wild Things were able to get out of a bases loaded jam.
It was smooth sailing the rest of the way, as the Wild Things coasted to a 4-3 victory.
CONSOLE Energy Park will now host the All Star festivities this upcoming week, July 15th-17th.
Photo Credit: Washington Wild Things
