Adksion goes yard, Express relievers shut down Honkers
Box Score – Virtual Game Day Program
The Eau Claire Express put together a complete game for the first time in seven games to beat the Rochester Honkers 6-3 on Tuesday night at Carson Park.
Right fielder Tyler Adkison put the Express up early with his fifth home run of the season in the bottom of the first inning to put Eau Claire up 2-0. Express Field Manager Dale Varsho said it was refreshing to start a game with a lead for once.
“You know I think that’s the first time we had a lead for a long time,” said Varsho. “It was nice to play with a lead for a little while even though it didn’t stay very long.”
The Honkers would strike back with a run in the third and two in the fifth inning to take a 3-2 lead. But two Rochester errors and three Express hits would plate four runs and give Eau Claire a 6-2 advantage.
Erich Uelmen got the start for the Express and pitched well going five strong innings, allowing three runs on four hits to earn his second win of the season.
John Pomeroy would come in to pitch three innings of no-hit relief, making way for Victor Sanchez. Sanchez would pitch a 1-2-3 ninth inning to seal the deal and earn his sixth save of the season.
Adkison would finish 2-4 with a home run, double, a run scored and four RBI. Catcher Daulton Varsho would stay hot at the plate adding two hits and two runs scored. Dale Varsho said it was good to see the middle of his lineup producing.
“Tylers one guy that’s got to produce for us,” said Varsho. “He’s a strong kid and he’s a lot of fun to watch.”
After an exciting win on Kevin Nash appearance night, Adkison said the team had more fun today and that contributed to the victory.
“Hopefully we can keep playing loose like this, I think we tightened up a bit,” said Adksion. “After you lose a couple games in a row everyone is afraid to make mistakes you know, don’t want coach getting mad at us. Just keep having fun that’s the key to it right now.”
The Express conclude the homestand tomorrow as they go for the sweep over Rochester. First pitch is set for 6:35 p.m. at Carson Park. Tomorrow’s game is sponsored by Mega Co-Op and there will be a Trading Card giveaway.
“I don’t think we scored a run in two games before this or something crazy,” said Adkison. “We were all reminded of what it’s like to win. Hopefully we can keep this rolling.”