BATTLE CREEK- In a stellar night of pitching on both sides, the Waterloo Bucks edged past the Battle Creek Bombers 4-2 in the ninth inning Thursday night in Battle Creek, Michigan.
Both teams scored early on in the game, with the Bucks scoring first in the first inning. Outfielder Phil Keppler launched a single with bases loaded in the first to score two runners. But the Bombers quickly responded in the bottom of the second tying up the game, 2-2.
The pitching from both sides kept the hitters at bay for the next six innings. Right-handed thrower Tim Ryan took the mound in the eighth, pitching a quick three up-three down inning, and earning the win.
With bases loaded and two outs in the top on the ninth inning, Shortstop Michael Giller hit the perfect single to left-center field bringing two runners home and pulling ahead 4-2. Pitcher Zach Cooper took the mound in the bottom of the ninth inning and only saw three batters, thanks in part to a solid defense, and got the save.
The Bucks stay in Battle Creek Friday night for a 6:05 match-up. They return home to Riverfront Stadium for Saturday’s 7:05 game against the Madison Mallards. Gates open at 5:30 for Happy Hour featuring $2 draws until 6:30. Its College Square Mall night and tickets can be picked up at the mall.
