Globe iconLogin iconRecap iconSearch iconTickets icon
Scores
All Scores Triple-A Scores Double-A Scores High-A Scores Single-A Scores Rookie Scores
Schedule
Complete Game Schedule Triple-A Schedule Double-A Schedule High-A Schedule Single-A Schedule Rookie Schedule
Teams
Teams by Affiliate Teams by Name Teams Map Teams by Class Teams by League Ballparks
Standings
Full Season Rookie Leagues Playoffs
Stats
Full Season Rookie Leagues Players Top Prospect Stats
Watch
Watch Games Subscribe Highlights Highlights by Affiliate Prospect Highlights Help Center Gameday Audio Podcast Bally Live
Tickets
Tickets Triple-A Championship
Shop
MiLB Store Auctions Shop Copa Shop Marvel
News
Pipeline Transactions Copa de la Diversión Ben's Biz Nationwide Road to the Show Malmö Oat Milkers T-Mobile Ballpark Dog Cam The MiLB App
Prospects
Top 100 Top 30 by Team Top 50 International Draft Top 250
Playoffs
Newsletters
Fans
Sweepstakes & Contests
History
About

Modesto Nuts Win Nailbiter to Claim Back-to-Back Cal League Championships

Nuts secured their second consecutive California League Championship and the 11th in Modesto’s Cal League history
By Micah Mashore
September 19, 2024

In a thrilling finale at John Thurman Field, the Modesto Nuts secured their second consecutive California League Championship and the 11th in Modesto’s Cal League history by edging out the Lake Elsinore Storm 2-1 in Game 3 of the best-of-three series. With an electric atmosphere and palpable tension, the Nuts

In a thrilling finale at John Thurman Field, the Modesto Nuts secured their second consecutive California League Championship and the 11th in Modesto’s Cal League history by edging out the Lake Elsinore Storm 2-1 in Game 3 of the best-of-three series. With an electric atmosphere and palpable tension, the Nuts demonstrated resilience and determination, capturing the title in front of their home fans.

The game unfolded in a pitching battle, with the Modesto Bullpen delivering a stellar performance in relief of starter RHP Pedro Da Costa Lemos, keeping the Storm scoreless for the final 7 innings after they scored in the 2nd inning on an RBI Sacrifice Fly from RF Sean Barnett. The stable of relievers featuring RHP Brock Moore, RHP Trevor Long (who picked up the win), LHP Jack White, LHP Brayan Perez, and RHP Hunter Cranton (who secured his 3rd postseason save) were dominant in the ballgame and in the series for the Nuts.

The Modesto offense was initially quiet but came alive at a pivotal moment, scoring both of their runs in the fifth inning. After Lake Elsinore starter RHP Miguel Mendez walked the bases loaded in the 5th, 1B Milkar Perez drew another bases loaded walk to give Modesto their first run. C Josh Caron would follow with an infield single scoring 2B Charlie Pagliarini to give Modesto a lead they would not relinquish.

Despite a strong effort from Lake Elsinore's pitching staff, highlighted by their starter Mendez, who struck out six over 4.1 innings, the Storm struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities, ultimately leaving seven runners on base. Modesto’s bullpen stepped up, with Cranton securing the save and preserving the lead in a nail-biting final inning.

With this championship victory, the Nuts not only solidify their dominance in the league but also continue to build a legacy of excellence. Fans celebrated late into the night, honoring a team that has become synonymous with success in Modesto. As the Nuts look ahead, they carry with them the momentum and pride of back-to-back championships, eager to defend their title in the upcoming 2025 season.

Read More: