CalL1 Inland Empire 66ers

Wing Hits Game Winner in the 9th

Published on July 25, 2011 under California League (CalL1)
Inland Empire 66ers News Release


Rancho Cucamonga, CA- One night after seeing their comeback dreams go unfulfilled Inland Empire (46-54, 14-16) was able to come through in the clutch with a 5-3 come from behind victory over Rancho Cucamonga (56-44, 18-12) on a Michael Wing bases three run double in the ninth.

The early action was all about the starting pitching as both the 66ers Johnny Hellweg and Rancho's Red Patterson dominated the first handful of innings. Hellweg would leave the game after five innings without allowing a run, and only permitting five total base runners while striking out six.

The runs that were permitted by the pitching staffs Sunday night came on rather lack luster plays. Dwayne Bailey drove in Carlos Ramirez in the fifth on a sac fly. The Quakes answered in the sixth with a controversial Angelo Songco triple which was cashed in on an error.

The 66ers scored again in the eighth to take the lead when Michael Wing came home from third on a double play. But, the Quakes were able to rally in their half of the frame, putting two men in scoring position before an out was recorded. With one out and the bases loaded, and the team still hanging on to a one run advantage, the 66ers needed a double play to end the threat. The 66ers got what they wanted, but could not turn two, an errant throw to first bounced away allowing the potential game winner to plate.

Inland Empire's "never say die" spirit was tested again but Inland Empire would not be denied on this night. Mere minutes after the heartbreak of a second unearned run scoring, and facing the Quakes closer Logan Bawcum who had ended the game the night before, Inland Empire rallied to load the bases for Michael Wing with two out.

On Saturday Wing had a two home run night, but it can easily be argued his performance Sunday tops his previous play. Down to his final strike in the ninth he hit a ball to shallow center that was out of reach for the Quakes defense. It cleared the bases to give Inland Empire a 5-3 lead which they would not relinquish.

The 66ers victory forces a rubber match in the finale of the three game series on Monday night in Rancho Cucamonga. California League strikeout leader Ariel Pena will start for Inland Empire. The first pitch is set for 7:05 pm and the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians pre-game show begins at 6:55 pm on AM 1050 KCAA. For more information on 66ers tickets or to schedule your next fun filled group outing, contact the 66ers front office at (909)888-9922.

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California League Stories from July 25, 2011


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