Smith Dazzles Again in Final JetHawks Start
Published on June 11, 2006 under California League (CalL1)
Lancaster JetHawks News Release
(SAN BERNARDINO, CA) - The inevitable came later than many thought it would, but it was still too soon for JetHawks fans. Greg Smith was promoted to AA, notice coming just moments after Smith finished off another brilliant performance. The star left-hander allowed just two hits in seven shut-out innings, earning his ninth consecutive victory as the JetHawks beat first place Inland Empire 1-0. It was the fourth straight start in which Smith allowed two hits or less. Smith added insult to injury by picking off two of the five base runners to reach base against him.
Smith becomes the third JetHawks pitcher promoted to AA Tennessee, following April's star Matt Chico and reliever Chris Kinsey. Catcher Wilkin Castillo spent two weeks with AAA Tucson, but was returned to Lancaster last week.
Along with scoreless relief work by Mark Rosen and Matt Elliott, Smith made the lone JetHawks run stand up. Derek Bruce and Emilio Bonifacio led off the third inning with singles. Castillo hit a fly ball to center field, scoring Bruce for the only run of the game.
Inland Empire nearly scored in the second inning. Mike Wilson walked, then Matt Tuiasosopo doubled to right field. Knowing Smith's ability to limit opposing team's chances, 66ers manager Gary Thurman rolled the dice, waving home Wilson to attempt to score from first base on Tuiasosopo's hit. Javier Brito, playing right field to give Carlos Gonzalez an off day, made a perfect throw home to beat Wilson by several steps for an out.
The series concludes Sunday afternoon at Inland Empire. Kellen Raab (2-6) starts for Lancaster against Cibney Bello (3-3). The game is scheduled to start at 2:11, with the radio broadcast kicking off at 2:00 on Magic 1340 and online at www.jethawks.com.
The JetHawks return home Monday, June 19 for a three game homestand which will mark the beginning of the second half of the season. Individual game tickets, season tickets, and mini-plan packages are available at the JetHawks box office, by phone at 661-726-5400, as well as at www.jethawks.com.
California League Stories from June 11, 2006
- JetHawks Earn Road Split Against League's Best Home Team - Lancaster JetHawks
- Peterson chops down Oaks in 8-5 win - Stockton Ports
- Quakes defeat Giants 4-0 - San Jose Giants
- Smith Dazzles Again in Final JetHawks Start - Lancaster JetHawks
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