Laredo 8, Wichita 6 (Laredo wins series 3-2) — Box Score
The Laredo Lemurs fought out of an early hole to come back and top the Wichita Wingnuts 8-6 and claim the semifinal series 3-2.
The Lemurs struck first with two runs in the first on a fielder’s choice and an error but the Wingnuts answered quickly in the bottom of the frame. CF Nick Van Stratten tripled to lead off the bottom of the first and RF Brent Clevlen doubled to bring him home. In the next at-bat, 1B Andy LaRoche blasted a two-run home run to give the Wingnuts a 3-2 lead.
Wichita added to that lead in the second inning when DH Taylor Oldham singled to score Leo Vargas and again in the fourth when LaRoche singled with the bases loaded – scoring both Van Stratten and Vargas. LaRoche finished the night 3-for-4 with four RBI.
The Lemurs cut into the deficit in the fifth inning as LF Ty Morrison and 2B Abel Nieves hit back-to-back RBI singles and DH Kevin Taylor hit a sacrifice fly. C Phil Pohl gave Laredo the lead in the sixth inning with a three-run home run.
Reliever John Brebbia made that lead stand up the rest of the way to preserve the win. Reliever Ryan Beckman earned the win as he tossed 2.1 innings and allowed two runs on three hits. Brebbia was credited with the save for working four perfect innings to close out the game. Brebbia also struck out four batters.
The win advances the Lemurs into the American Association Championship Series where they will meet the Sioux City Explorers. Game 1 is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 16 in Laredo.
Fans can watch select American Association games live and for free at www.americanassociationbaseball.tv.
