Pirates Fall to 'Panners after Carrying Late Lead

Jummy Urban Pitches Against the SoCal Shepherds June 10, 22 Photo by Izzy de Souza

The Ventura County Pirates (2-6-1) carried a two run lead heading into the ninth inning Friday against the Alaska Goldpanners, but ended up on the wrong end of a walk-off grand slam resulting in an 8-2 defeat.

After earning their first victory in their Alaska series in their previous contest, the Pirates entered Friday’s matchup looking to add to the win column again. The Pirates battled from a three run deficit to carrying a two run lead throughout a seven inning span. Unfortunately for Ventura County, the game proved to be one inning too long.

The Pirates sent right-hander Dylan Goodrich on the bump to carry the momentum from their recent victory. After facing the entire Panners lineup in the first, Goodrich settled down through his next three innings of work, only facing 11 batters within that span. Goodrich finished with a final stat line of 4 IP, 8 H, 4 ER, and 3 K while not walking anyone.

Despite an early 4-1 deficit, the Pirates inched their way back with runs in the second and fourth inning to make it a one run deficit, including a home run from second baseman Robbie Treto, who also homered the day before. The bats in the sixth inning caught fire, as a two-run single from shortstop Angelo Aleman gave his club a one run advantage. This was all needed insurance for reliever J.P. Caire, who dazzled on the hill with two silent innings, not allowing a run or hit, while walking two and striking out a hitter.

The seventh inning saw the Pirates bring in right-hander Brady Schrank (0-1) to toss the final three innings and salvage the victory. Schrank proved dominant in his first two innings, not allowing a hit and only putting one man on base. Entering the ninth inning, the Pirates were determined to walk away with a two-run victory.

After loading up the bases, Schrank was able to rely on his defense in securing a crucial double play. With the final out in reach and with one strike away, the entire momentum of the game and decision completely shifted, as the Panners’ Rafael Flores connected for a walk-off grand slam putting the contest to bed and giving his team a come-from-behind 8-6 win.

The Pirates are set to face off for the finale of their six-game series against the Goldpanners Saturday June 18, with first pitch scheduled for 2:00 p.m. PST.