Hernandez's Gem and Mendoza's Clutch Hits Lead Erie Past Squirrels

Wilkel Hernandez spun a gem for Erie (16-11) in a 3-1 win over Richmond (12-18) on Thursday.

Hernandez retired the first 14 batters he faced. Andy Thomas became the first Richmond runner when he singled with two out in the fifth. Luis Toribio followed with a run-scoring triple to give Richmond a 1-0 lead.

Erie responded instantly against Richmond starter Hayden Birdsong in the bottom of the fifth. Gage Workman walked with two out and scored on an RBI triple from Carlos Mendoza to tie the game at 1-1.

Hernandez worked a perfect sixth inning. He became the first SeaWolves pitcher to complete six innings and throw a quality start this season.

Erie took its first lead of the game in the seventh against reliever Wil Jensen. Ben Malgeri doubled with one out and scored on Mendoza’s RBI single. It was Mendoza’s second consecutive multi-hit game.

The SeaWolves loaded the bases in the eighth with one out against Nick Garcia. Workman reached on a run-scoring fielder’s choice to make it 3-1.

After Tim Naughton tossed two scoreless frames in relief, PJ Poulin worked a scoreless ninth to close out the game. Naughton (3-0) earned the win. Jensen (1-2) took the loss. Poulin earned his first save.

Erie has now won four straight games. They’ll look to make it five wins in a row on Friday when Troy Melton faces John Michael Bertrand at 6:05 p.m.