Jun 9, 2024 By Chris Dugan 4 min read

From an experience standpoint, the matchup was a mismatch.

Wild Things left field Quincy Latimore was in the batter’s box while playing in his 2,026th professional game – and quite possibly the last in a 17-year career. Meanwhile, on the mound was pitcher Jake Armstrong, who was in his sixth professional game since being signed by the Joliet Slammers.

The result was impressive but should not have come as a surprise, based on the experience advantage.

Latimore clubbed an Armstrong pitch, hitting a line-drive three-run homer that went down the left-field line, over the top row of advertising and into the parking lot at Wild Things Park.

It was the key hit in the game and gave Washington a 6-2 lead in the third inning Sunday. The Wild Things went on to a 9-3 victory to win the three-game series.

“My main focus that at-bat was just to get ahead in the count and then get something in the zone,” Latimore said. “I did and didn’t miss it. That was a rocket. That was the best home run I’ve hit since I’ve been here. That gave us the momentum and we ran with it.”

The 35-year-old Latimore was signed by the Wild Things on opening day this season and it was as a stopgap move. Washington knew Latimore had taken a job that would require him to return to his home in North Carolina by July. He’s also awaiting the birth of his first child, a daughter, next month. It was Latimore’s second stint with the Wild Things. He played here in 2013.

Latimore, who was a former highly regarded prospect of the Pittsburgh Pirates and played seven years at the Class AA level, had informed the Wild Things this would likely be his final baseball game. And if it is, Latimore went out with one to remember. He went 3-for-5 with a home run and three RBI.

“I hope I can come back,” Latimore said, “but if I can’t I went out with a bang.

“Look at that,” he continued, motioning toward the sky above the third-base stands, where a double rainbow could be seen.

“That must be a good sign. I love the game. I’m blessed to have been able to play the game as long as I have.”

Washington manager Tom Vaeth said Latimore’s stay, though short, was productive and valuable for more than what he did during games.

“He had a huge impact,” Vaeth said. “His professionalism was impactful. He showed up every day and took the time to sit and talk about the game with our younger guys. They were able to see how he prepares every day, even at age 35.”

Latimore wasn’t the only Washington player with a big game. First baseman Andrew Czech hit a long home run to right centerfield in the first inning, extending his on-base streak to 58 consecutive games. Catcher J.C. Santini hit a solo home run, his first of the season, in the second inning to give Washington the lead for good at 3-2.

Caleb McNeely had three hits, including a triple. Tommy Caufield and rookie Ethan Wilder also tripled.

Starter Kobe Foster (4-0) pitched five innings for the win. Relievers Justin Goossen-Brown, Franki Giuliano and Alex Carrillo combined for four innings of shutout ball.

The win moves Washington back into a first-place tie in the Frontier League’s West Division with Schaumburg. The Wild Things will play 15 of their next 18 games on the road.

“This stretch coming up, we’ll prepare to win Tuesday and then figure out Wednesday,” Vaeth said. “It’s not like we’re looking too far ahead.”

Extra bases

Washington turned three double plays and Foster picked a runner off first base. … The Wild Things begin a six-game road trip Tuesday at Gateway.