Lara Increases Hitting Streak to 14 in 14-4 Loss

HAGERSTOWN, MD (April 28, 2019) - A nine-run first inning kept the Suns out of contention, as they fell 14-4 to the Grasshoppers, but Gilbert Lara  hit a single in the eighth to increase his hitting streak to 14 games at Municipal Stadium Sunday afternoon.
The shortstop finished the day 2-4 with a two-run homer in the ninth inning. He hit a single to right in the eighth to officially extend his streak to tie him with Jarred Kelenic for the longest hitting streak in Class-A baseball.

Despite Lara increasing his hitting streak, the Suns fell behind quickly in the game. Jake Irvin (L, 0-3) lasted just one inning in the start and surrendered nine runs, all earned to the Grasshoppers (14-10). Nine consecutive Greensboro batters reached base safely, capped off with a Jonah Davis  grand slam to push Hagerstown down 9-0 before they even got a chance to bat.
Relievers Jackson Stoeckinger and Jhonatan German both worked three innings in relief, allowing just three runs in the loss, while Aaron Fletcher finished the game for the Suns, allowing two unearned runs in the ninth.
Omar Meregildo had a strong night at the plate, he scored both of the Suns two runs prior to Lara's homer in the ninth. Pablo O'Connor moved him around the basepaths with a pair of doubles. The left fielder finished the day 3-for-4.
After an off day, the Suns head to Asheville to play the Tourists in a three-game set beginning Tuesday. RHP Francys Peguero (1-1, 2.57 ERA) gets the nod for Hagerstown, while Asheville has yet to announce their probable starter. First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m. at McCormick Field.
The Suns return home May 8 to face the Lakewood BlueClaws in a three-game set. It starts Wednesday with Bark in the Park night, Thursday is Thirsty Thursday and Friday will be a beautiful night at Municipal Stadium to enjoy with your family and friends. For tickets or more information, visit hagerstownsuns.com or call 301-791-6266.