EL Reading Fightin Phils

Ethan Wilson Go Ahead Double Gives Reading Second Straight Win

September 6, 2023 - Eastern League (EL)
Reading Fightin Phils News Release


(Reading, PA) - A late run in the bottom of the eighth was enough for the Reading Fightin Phils (28-31, 56-71) to get the win over the Portland Sea Dogs (28-31, 68-60) 3-2 to gain control of the series 2-0.

The Fightins were led by starting pitcher Mick Abel, who tossed another fabulous outing Wednesday night. The Phillies No. 2 overall prospect pitched six innings, allowing one hit and struck out seven. The lone hit coming off an infield hit that Portland barely squeaked out.

The R-Phils had an early opportunity to take control of the game in the first. Sea Dogs starting pitcher Angel Bastardo walked three batters in the first to load the bases. Reading was unable to capitalize after a strikeout by Baron Radcliff left the runners stranded.

The first run of the game came in a big way for the Phils. With catcher Cody Roberts reaching on a walk, Marcus Lee Sang hit a bomb over the RACC train sign to give the Fightins the 2-0 lead. This was Lee Sang's third home run at FirstEnergy stadium since joining the team from Jersey Shore on August 15th.

Jordi Martinez came in for relief of Abel in the top of the seventh. Portland quickly got the bats going as Chase Meidroth led the inning off with a single for just their second hit of the game. After Nathan Hickey reached on a fielder's choice error, Blaze Jordan followed up with a single to put runners on the corners. A soft line drive single to Radcliff in right field was enough to score Meidroth and cut the lead in half 2-1. With the bases loaded, Phillip Sikes hit a long sacrifice fly ball just in front of the pool in right to score Hickey and tie the game at two a piece.

Reading came back in the bottom of the eighth to get the lead back. With Oliver Dunn on second, Ethan Wilson came in with a clutch line drive just over the Portland left fielder's head. Dunn dashed from second base to beat the throw at home and give the Fightins the lead 3-2.

A charge from the Portland Sea Dogs fell short as Tristan Garnett (S, 1) closed things out to secure the win for the Fightin Phils 3-2. Pipkin (2-2) got the win for the Fightin Phils, with Wyatt Olds (0-6) suffering the loss.

Reading is back in action Thursday at 6:45 p.m. against the Portland Sea Dogs (Red Sox) from FirstEnergy Stadium. LHP Matt Osterberg is scheduled to start for Reading, and RHP Isaac Coffey will start for Portland. Pregame coverage is underway at 6:30 p.m. and can be listened at rphils.com/radio. A video stream is also available via MiLB TV or the Bally Live App.

Thursday is an unused ticket games. Game worn jerseys will also be auctioned off this week, with Keystones on Thursday, Los Luchadores on Friday and Pinstripes on Saturday. Friday, Saturday and Sunday will all feature postgame fireworks as we close out the 2023 home schedule. Tickets to all games are still available at rphils.com/tickets, by calling 610-370-BALL or in person at the Customers Bank Ticket Office.

The 2023 R-Phils season is presented by Pepsi. Follow the Fightin Phils on Twitter @ReadingFightins, like us on Facebook, or follow us on Instagram @Fightins.

Check out the Reading Fightin Phils Statistics



Eastern League Stories from September 6, 2023


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central