The Lake Erie Crushers received helped from two new pitchers before their July 2 game against visiting Joliet, and the payoff was a much-need victory.
The new additions made a difference as the Crushers (21-27) pitched their way to a 3-2 win in Avon.
Chris McMahon was signed to start against the Slammers, and went two innings and allowed one run. He then gave the ball to Gauge Lockhart, another new acquisition from San Francisco University.
Lockhart was effective, as he went four innings, struck out three and didn’t allow a hit in earning his first victory of the season.
That allowed the Crushers’ offense to find its groove, and it did starting in the fourth inning. That’s when Garret Pike hit his third home run in as many days, a solo shot that was his fifth of the season.
In the fifth, Pavin Parks hit a solo shot (his 11th round-tripper this season) and Lake Erie led, 2-1.
In the eighth, Jarrod Watkins’ RBI single pushed the lead to 3-1.
Brandyn Sittinger got four outs for the save. After allowing a run, struck out Kadon Morton and secured the victory.
July 3 is Red, White and BOOM at ForeFront Field for the team’s Fourth of July Celebration. First pitch is 6:50 p.m. with fireworks after the game.