April 18, 2023 – Midwest League (MWL) – Fort Wayne TinCaps News Release
PEORIA, Ill. – TinCaps’ shortstop Jackson Merrill crushed a three-run homer and drove in four runs total, and designated hitter Nathan Martorella hit a solo blast, but the TinCaps fell short, 8-5, against the Peoria Chiefs (St. Louis Cardinals affiliate) at Dozer Park Tuesday in the opener of their six-game series.
Six different TinCaps had hits in the contest. In addition to the two home runs, center fielder Jakob Marsee ripped a double.
In the middle innings, Fort Wayne reliever Aaron Holiday was electric, striking out five and allowing just one hit across three shutout innings.
However, Peoria jumped out in front with four runs in the first inning, highlighted by a three-run homer from Aaron McKeithan, one of his two long balls of the night. The Chiefs added single runs in the second and third frames.
Merrill’s homer came with one out in the third inning to draw the ‘Caps within two runs. Two batters later, Martorella clobbered one the opposite way, and Fort Wayne trailed just 5-4.
Merrill tallied another RBI with a sacrifice fly in the top of the fifth, but Peoria added a pair of insurance runs in the eighth.
Next Game: Wednesday, April 19 @ Peoria Chiefs (7:35 p.m. ET)
Fort Wayne Probable Starter: RHP Garrett Hawkins (No. 19 Padres prospect)
Peoria Probable Starter: LHP Alex Cornwell
Watch: Bally Live app (free) | MiLB.TV (subscription)
Listen: 1380 The Fan & 100.9 FM | TinCaps.com
• Discuss this story on the Midwest League message board…
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at OurSports Central Midwest League MWL News…