Scrappers Hold On Late To Top Black Bears

(Niles, OH)-The Mahoning Valley Scrappers scored three runs in the bottom of the third inning and held on late for a 4-3 win over the West Virginia Black Bears at Eastwood Field. The Black Bears would put the tying run at third with two outs, but Luis Araujo slammed the door shut for the win.  
Mahoning Valley got the scoring started in the bottom of the first inning. With two outs, Tyler Freeman singled and advanced to second on a throwing error. Hosea Nelson followed with an RBI single to left for the early lead.
Freeman would get things started in the third inning with a single. A balk would move Freeman to second. He would then come in to score on and RBI single from Henry Pujols. Michael Cooper would bring Pujols in with an RBI single. The final run of the inning would come on an RBI single from Jason Rodriguez.
The Black Bears would chip away with two unearned runs in the fourth and a run in the top of the ninth before the Scrappers slammed the door shut.
Cameron Mingo started and took a no decision in 3.2 innings of work. He allowed 2 unearned runs on 7 hits. He walked 1 and struck out 1. Randy Valladares (5-0) earned the win in 2.2 innings of relief. He allowed just 2 hit and struck out 5. Luis Araujo (2) struck out the only batter he faced to record the save.   
The Scrappers (37-28) will go for the sweep on Saturday night at 7:05. Zach Draper is scheduled to start. Get your tickets now at mvscrappers.com or by calling 330-505-0000 or visiting the Chevy All-Stars box office at Eastwood Field.