Raptors Win #1
Published on May 21, 2025 under Pioneer League (PL)
Ogden Raptors News Release
After dropping a nail-biter in Game 1, the Raptors knew they had to respond - and they responded loud in Game 2 of the series. A six-run first inning, in which the lineup batted around, was exactly the kind of statement manager Evan Parker was looking for.
The combination of offensive production and pitching staff longevity allowed the Raptors to cruise to their first win of the 2025 season. In the starting lineup, eight of nine hitters recorded a base hit, with four players turning in multi-hit performances.
Most notably, the production from the nine-spot proved to be the catalyst for a Raptors win. True Fontenot, hitting last in the order, delivered two 2-RBI doubles and a late-inning RBI single, accounting for five RBIs on the night - a game-changing performance from the bottom of the lineup.
With 12 runs on 14 hits - and a loud six-run outburst in the first inning - the Raptors' offense gave the pitching staff plenty of breathing room. Chase Chatman was solid in his season debut, tossing four innings, striking out six, and allowing four runs on five hits. While his control wasn't as sharp as he might have liked, he repeatedly worked out of jams and stranded runners in key moments.
Chatman's effort set the stage for Shane Gustafson to earn the win. Picking up right where he left off last year, "Goose" threw two innings of two-hit baseball, walking one and striking out two. With a 10-5 lead through six innings, Nik Cardinal was called on to shut the door.
Cardinal answered that call with authority. He threw three innings of no-hit baseball, allowing just one baserunner and striking out multiple batters to earn his first save of the year. More importantly, his outing set the tone for the rest of the series.
The Raptors will look to make it a streak tonight with first pitch at 7:35 PM MDT. With the series now even at one game apiece, fans can tune in live at ogden-raptors.com via FloSports.
Pioneer League Stories from May 21, 2025
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