The Calgary Vipers improved their second half record to 2-2 with a 6-1 win over the Edmonton Cracker-Cats at Telus Field in Edmonton, Alberta. Evan Greusel got the start for Calgary and was dominate in his six innings of work giving up only three hits for no runs while striking out five. With the victory the Vipers are now tied with all three other North Division teams for first place in the second half.
Calgary scrapped across a run in the top of the fifth after Jorge Tang reached on a error by George Sandel. Manabu Kuramochi moved Tang to second with a single and Drew Miller picked up another clutch two out single for the run batted in and 1-0 lead.
The Vipers got to Edmonton starter Scott Richmond in the sixth inning with a nine pitch leadoff walk by Carlos Duncan. Jason Colson and Kevin Price followed with hits to load the bases for Tang who was hit by a pitch for a RBI. Quinn Monsma came in for Richmond and walked both Shaun Ashman and Miller to force in two more runs. After another pitching change Nelson Castro singled to left field to plate two and make the score 6-0.
Edmonton got on the scoreboard in the bottom of the eighth loading the bases with a Ryan Radmanovich single, Terrence McClain double, and Aaron McEachran walk. With the bases loaded Tim Ryan also walked for the only Cracker-Cat run of the game.
Ryan Klatt and Jeff Groeger combined for the final three innings of the game giving up one run while striking out a combined five.
Miller with his base hit and walk in the game improves his league season high on-base streak to 31 games.
The Vipers now return home Monday July 16th at 7:05 PM (MDT) to open a seven game home stand against the Winnipeg Goldeyes. The two teams will also play Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday all at 7:05 PM (MDT). Tickets can be ordered by calling 277-BALL (2255). The games can be heard live online at am770chqr.com.
