Scrappers Blank Crosscutters For Series Win

 (Williamsport, PA)-The Mahoning Valley Scrappers followed up a rain shortened shutout win over the Williamsport Crosscutters on Tuesday night with a pitching dominated 2-0 shutout win on Wednesday night. Ethan Hankins started and dominated while the NYPL's top closer, Tim Herrin, earned his league best fifth save.
Mahoning Valley got what would end up being the winning run in the top of the fourth inning. With one out Billy Wilson doubled. After advancing to third on a ground out, he would come in to score the eventual winning run on an RBI single from Pedro Alfonseca.  
The Scrappers doubled their lead in the top of the eighth inning. Brayan Rocchio started the inning with a triple off the wall in right. Ray Delgado followed with an RBI sacrifice fly to push the lead out to the final of 2-0.
 The Crosscutters best chance at scoring came in the bottom of the eighth inning. Williamsport would load the bases with no outs. The Scrappers would then bring in Herrin from the bullpen. He would get the first out on a weak line drive to Rocchio at short. Herrin then induced a groundball double play to end the inning and the last Williamsport threat.
Hankins took a no decision in 4.1 innings of work. He allowed 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 6. Francis Cespedes (2-0) picked up the win in 2.0 innings of work. Cespedes did not allow a hit while walking 1and striking 1. Luis Valdez followed with 0.2 innings of relief. He allowed 1 hit and walked 1 while striking out 1. Herrin (5) earned the save with 2.0 innings of perfect relief.

The Scrappers (11-8) now return home for the Fourth of July on Thursday night when State College comes to Eastwood Field. Jhonneyver Gutierrez will get the start. First pitch is set for 7:05. Get your tickets now at mvscrappers.com or by calling 330-505-0000 or visiting the Chevy All-Stars box office at Eastwood Field.