Grey fires seven shutout innings in 15-0 romp

In the spirit of Christmas, the Hops offense was the gift that kept on giving Friday night. On Christmas in July Night, the Hops hung a 15-spot on the Spokane Indians, marking the second time they have eclipsed 15 runs in the last four games. They also set a new franchise record for most runs scored at Ron Tonkin Field, with 15.
The damage started early, when shortstop Yan Sanchez launched a lead-off triple into the left center gap, his league leading sixth of the year. Right-fielder Bryan Araiza immediately knocked him in with an RBI single. 

The real fun kicked off in the 3^rd inning, when the Hops scored five runs off Spokane starter Luis Lopez, chasing the righty after 2.2 innings, seven hits, and six earned runs. Araiza led it off with a triple and RBI singles from third baseman Eudy Ramos, catcher Daulton Varsho, and second baseman Ryan Grotjohn.
Connor Grey settled in -- and he settled in quickly. He went seven shutout innings with six punchouts while scattering seven hits, and allowing no walks. The biggest threat Grey faced came after a Melvin Novoa triple to right center field.
The doors came off in the 5^th, when left fielder Connor Owings and Grotjohn smacked back to back two run doubles to extend the lead to 10-0. Ramos decided he wanted to get back in on the action and launched a 2-run home run over the left field fence.
The Hops offense has been beyond electric over the last seven games, scoring 65 runs. During this 7^-game win streak, the dominant offense has been backed by equally-solid pitching, outscoring opponents by a tally of 65-27.
After falling to 15-14 one week ago, the Hops have improved to a season high eight games over .500 and moved themselves into first place in the first half pennant race in the Northwest League. The Hops are a game up on Eugene with two games to play.
The Hops look to continue the hot streak tomorrow at 5:03 pm at Ron Tonkin Field. Pregame radio begins at 4:30. Catch the game on MILB.tv and Rip City Radio 620 AM.