Nevin Homers Again, Emmett Deals in Win Over 66ers

Rancho Cucamonga, CA – A Kyle Nevin three-run homer and five hitless innings from Rancho reliever Gabe Emmett led the Quakes to a 3-2 victory over the Inland Empire 66ers on Friday night at LoanMart Field.

The win for Rancho gives them their second victory of the series and evens their record on the current home stand at 5-5. The win also moves Rancho’s lead in the South Division back to five games over the second-place Lake Elsinore Storm.

Nevin, who went 44 games without a home run in his pro career, cracked his second round-tripper in as many games, as his three-run shot off Inland Empire starter Jake Madden (0-4)gave the Quakes a 3-1 lead in the fifth inning.

That was the only offense they needed on Friday, as Gabe Emmett worked a career-high five innings. Not only did Emmett protect the lead and earn the win, he allowed just two walks over the five hitless innings.

Reliever Liam Doolan gave up a run in the eighth in his pro debut, but slammed the door in the ninth with a 1-2-3 inning, securing his first save.

Rayne Doncon had three hits to pace Rancho’s eight-hit attack.

Rancho (32-17) is expected to add right-hander Waylin Santana to the roster on Saturday and start game five of the six-game series. Inland Empire will go with lefty Mason Albright (3-3), with first pitch scheduled for 6:30pm.

Saturday will feature post-game Fireworks, thanks to the Best Western Plus Heritage Inn. Tickets are available at rcquakes.com. Go Quakes!