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SAL1 Charleston Dirty Birds

Stafford's Blast Lifts West Virginia to 5-3 Victory

June 6, 2018 - South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Charleston Dirty Birds News Release


CHARLESTON, WV - Deon Stafford's three-run homer capped off a four-run first for the Power, which was more than enough offense in a 5-3 victory over the Lexington Legends Wednesday night at Appalachian Power Park.

West Virginia's offense hurried out of the gate for the third straight game against the Legends. The first five Power (28-26) batters to step to the dish all reached base safely against Lexington (31-25) starter Garrett Davila (3-3). Oneil Cruz kicked things off with a single before Brett Pope was hit by a pitch. Calvin Mitchell then droved in Cruz with a single, giving the outfielder a team-high 34 RBI in 2018 and setting the stage for Stafford's long ball. The catcher stroked a 3-2 pitch over the Marshall Orthopedics sign in center field to make the score 4-0 after the first inning.

Domingo Robles spun three innings of scoreless work, but had to leave the game early due to an injury. After his departure, Sergio Cubilete (1-3) tossed four innings of relief, surrendering three unearned runs, all in the fifth. Marten Gasparini scored after Ricky Aracena reached on a throwing error from Cubilete. Brewer Hicklen added another with a sacrifice fly to deep center that plated Cristian Perez and moved Aracena to third base. In the ensuing at-bat, Aracena scored on a wild pitch from Cubilete.

Drew Fischer set down Lexington in order in the eighth, wringing up a pair, and Blake Cederlind (S, 1) closed things out for West Virginia in the ninth as he worked around a one-out walk to secure his first save of the season.

Mitchell scored the Power's final run in the third on a lead-off double, a wild pitch and a passed ball. That double was part of the California native's 18th multi-hit game of the season.

West Virginia finishes its series with the Legends Thursday, with first pitch set for 7:05 p.m. from Appalachian Power Park. RHP Gavin Wallace (3-0, 3.59 ERA) takes the hill for the Power, while Lexington's starter has yet to be announced. Pregame coverage begins at 6:45 p.m. on The Jock 1300 and 1340 AM, as well as online at www.wvpower.com and via the TuneIn Radio App and MiLB First Pitch App.

West Virginia's first June homestand will conclude with a Thirsty Thursday, presented by Rock 105. Head to Appalachian Power Park for $1.00 12-ounce beverages or $2.00 16-ounce cans of beer. For tickets and more information, call the Power at 304-344-2287 or visit wvpower.com.

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